Did you know there’s a relatively small and beautiful island tucked away in one corner of the world with upwards of 150 vintners producing beautiful wines? That’s because Tasmania, yes, you heard that right, Tasmania, provides an optional climate for some special grapes intertwined with beautiful scenery. While there are indeed a fair number of wine producers in the country now, it’s worth noting that barely 75% of them export their wines out of the island state. That reason alone should help pursued you to take a visit!
Most folks that are new to the wine world, and even those that aren’t rookies are not yet very familiar with some of the award winning wine styles that have been coming out of this new world region since 1840.
Where is Tasmania?
Tasmania is situated about 240 miles South of the Australian mainland. Its protected forests, rock structures, scenic gorges and secluded coastal coves bring to mind thoughts of some fairytale island. That isn’t far from the truth. Add to the scenery the quality of wine being made here, and you now have a more than valid excuse to take a trip.
Tasmania Provides an Optimal Wine Growing Climate
The climate in Tasmania is predominantly cool, reminicesnt of some old world terroirs in Northern France. This provides an optimal setting for a number of grape varieties that thrive during summers that aren’t excessively hot, with the fall season that maintains lengthy cool days. This ensures that the grapes don’t ripen too quickly, making them more complex at the time of harvest. Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio (Gris) and Pinot Noir are just a few of the grape varieties that are being produced here in a gorgeous capacity. In fact, some vintners have had great success in creating sparkling blends with varieties like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay (see the Jansz Brut Rose – above, which I picked up while meeting Jane Ferrari of Yalumba Vineyards).
Getting Started with Touring Tasmanian Wine Country
Tasmania all together has 7 distinct wine growing regions. However, it’s recommend that any wine and culture enthusiast begins in the South starting at Hobart, Tasmania’s capital city. Not only does the city itself have a great arts and cultural scene, many of the vineyards here are easily accessible via a short drive outside of the capital. No other large Tasmanian city provides such close proximity to nearby vineyards.
Also, the winemakers are incredibly friendly folks. Most producers are more than eager to tell you about their wines, though some vineyards do require appointments in advance.
If you’re starting a tour in the south, we recommend touring the vineyards throughout the Huon, Derwent and Coal River valleys. Here are a few recommended vineyards you should consider when starting your tour.
Bangor Wine & Oyster Shed
20 Blackman Bay Road, Dunalley 7177
T: 03 6253 5558
E: info@bangorshed.com.au
www.bangorshed.com.au
Cape Bernier Vineyard
230 Bream Creek Road, Bream Creek 7175
T: 03 6253 5443
M: 0419 885 588 F: 03 6253 6087
E: alastair@capebernier.com.au
www.capebernier.com.au
Frogmore Creek
699 Richmond Road, Cambridge 7170
T: 03 6274 5844
F: 03 6248 4485
E: admin@frogmorecreek.com.au
www.frogmorecreek.com.au
Take the trip!
There is too much beauty throughout the island to describe in one post, but just imagine fields of tulips, beset by crystal clear coastal waters with vineyards stacked side by side in jaw dropping valley-like settings. A visit to Tasmania will net you a unique culture, scenery unlike anywhere else in the world backed by heritage and all around good people. Not to mention, award winning wine. Do yourself a favor and step outside of the box!
About Greig
Greig Santos-Buch is an avid traveler, aspiring pilot, wine connoisseur and founder of the travel and wine community Winederlusting.com. Become educated about wine and travel while following his scenic wine journeys around the world on his website, Winederlusting.com.
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