Where is Tasmania?
Tasmania is an island off the southeast coast of mainland Australia separated by the Bass Strait. Early settlers identified the region suitable for grape growing and as early as 1823 the first vineyard was planted.
Tasmania has a temperate maritime climate and is moderated by the surrounding seas. The cool west winds from the Southern Ocean moderate extremes in temperatures and the island still sees some of the coldest temperatures within Australia.
Known for the cleanest air in the world, low altitudes and premium cool climate wine regions. Its southern latitude means the sunshine hours are long, its wildlife unique and the landscape some of the most scenic in Australia.
What wine is made in Tasmania?
Around 36% of Tasmania's entire wine production is sparkling. The likening of its temperatures to the Champagne region in France means sparkling wine production has had great success.
In recent years the reputation for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir as still wines has grown. Varieties such as Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling have increased due to the cool climate in Tasmania.
Other areas such as the Tamar and Coal River Valleys are being recognised for richer reds, such as cabernet sauvignon, merlot and even shiraz. Tasmania also boasts a mecca of distilleries and breweries with internationally acclaimed Whisky and spirits.
The regions of Tasmanian wine
Despite its distinct growing areas, Tasmania is identified as one Geographical Indicated region, to those in the know its landscape can be broken up into six different grape growing areas.
Tamar Valley
Is Tasmania's oldest wine-growing region and apparently accounts for 40% of the production of wine in Tasmania. Tamar Valley is best known for its varieties in Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc, while varieties such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon ripen with consistency.
East Coast
This region is renowned for its Pinot Noir, Riesling and Chardonnay, which are elegant, and crisp. Sparkling wines are also in excellent form here on the East Coast of Tasmania. In addition, this area is also home to a lot of passionate winemakers who are putting their personalised style across their wines.
Coal River Valley
Coal River is a relatively new addition to Australia's wine industry, only located north of Hobart. This region boasts the perfect cool and dry conditions from the Maritimes for wines such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Riesling.
Derwent Valley
Is located in the countryside of Hobart, like much of Tasmania, the key grape varieties here are similar to Coal River Valley which isn't located too far. The vineyards are located on the north-facing hillsides that rise up from the river on its western side, which provides plenty of sunshine exposure.
North West
Huon Valley
This stunning countryside of the Huon Valley and the surrounding area of the D’Entrecasteaux Channel is home to Tasmania's favourite varietals. Like most of Tasmania, Chardonnay, Riesling and, especially, Pinot Noir varietals do very well in this region. There is also plenty of Rosé and Sparkling wine production that can be found here too.
Tasmania has become one of the most visited tourist destinations in Australia, as its best known for its quality food and beverages, picturesque scenery and cultural attractions.
