Wine
The Best Wineries in Tasmania
Cool climate Tasmania is one of Australia’s hottest wine destinations. Start planning your next trip to the vineyards of the Apple Isle as we share our picks for the best Tasmanian wineries to visit, where to eat, where to stay, and things to do with this handy guide!
The climate might be cool but Tasmania’s status as a premium destination for food and wine lovers is hotter than ever.
While the Tasmanian region saw its first commercial vineyards take root in 1865, these plantings were short-lived, and it wasn’t until the 1970s that winemakers started once more in earnest to explore the potential locked up in the soils of old Van Diemen’s Land.
What soon became apparent is that the Tasmanian climate and soil made the region an ideal place to make cool climate wines of exceptional quality. Tasmania's wine regions include the sandstone and schist of the Derwent Valley to the peaty alluvial soils of Coal River Valley and the gravelly basalt, clay and limestone of the Tamar, Tasmanian Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in particular have commanded the attention of the world for their heightened flavours, aromas and elegance.
But it’s Tasmanian Sparkling that really put our southern-most wine country on the map for wine lovers around the world. Widely regarded as Australia’s finest, Tasmanian Sparkling continues to evoke favourable comparisons to the best that French Champagne can offer.
Today, with some Tassie wineries now seeing their third generation take the reins and a host of young guns pushing the envelope, the Tasmanian winemaking scene has become as dynamic and vibrant as the wines that result from such passion and dedication. As of 2021, there are roughly 160 licensed wine producers operating in the Apple Isle, and around 230 individual vineyards growing premium grapes for wine lovers around the world.
Of course, the absolute best way to experience Tassie winemaking is in person, so get the jump on planning your next wine adventure with our picks for the best Tasmanian wineries and cellar doors!
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Pooley Wines
Established in 1985, Pooley Wines lays claim to being Tasmania’s first third-generation wine family. With two unique sites in the Coal River Valley of Southern Tasmania, Cooinda and Butcher’s Hill, they are also Tasmania’s first and only fully accredited environmentally certified sustainable vineyard, with a host of trophies and medals to their name.
Across the two sites viticulturist Matthew Pooley and winemaker Anna Pooley produce superb cool climate specialties that express the region at its best, including Pinot G, Riesling, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, as well as distinctive takes on Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
No visit to Pooley would be complete without taking a tasting flight at the historic Belmont House, an 1830 sandstone stables and coach house and home to their cellar door. Awarded Gourmet Traveller’s Best Small Cellar Door in Southern Tasmania on four occasions (most recently in 2017 and 2018) as well as Best Wine Tasting Experience in Southern Tasmania in 2016 and 2019, it’s an introduction to premium Tasmanian wine not to be missed.
Butcher’s Hill Vineyard & Cellar Door
1431 Richmond Rd, Richmond, 7025
Open daily 10am to 5pm
Visit the Pooley Wines website
Bay of Fires
Home to three premium wines labels in their own right – House of Arras, Bay of Fires and Eddystone Point – Bay of Fires Cellar Door is a wine lover’s dream.
Each label focusses on different winemaking philosophies and styles, but one thing is consistent between them – they all reflect the unique Tasmanian terroir of their surroundings. A collaborative venture founded in 1990 by a team of passionate winemakers and viticulturists sharing a common dream, Bay of Fire presents alluring wines that are distinctly Tasmanian – handpicked, and specially selected for quality and character.
The cellar door itself, a modern, welcoming venue, offers sweeping views over the vines, the winery and Pipers River, set amidst an ideal backdrop of beautiful, established gardens. Seated Tastings are available, where visitors are taken through the details of Méthode Traditionelle Sparkling winemaking for Vintage Arras Sparkling Wines, before delving into Bay of Fires’ still wines and notable award winners.
There’s also the 1.5hr Premium Arras Experience, offering a tour of the winery and vineyard before proceeding through a tasting of $500 worth of Arras Sparkling at a private tasting. Hard to beat, for those looking to indulge a little!
40 Baxters Road, Pipers River, 7252
Open Thursday to Monday, 10am to 5pm
Visit the Bay of Fires website
Moorilla at Mona
No mention of Tasmania’s cellar door scene could pass without listing Moorilla at MONA. The second Tasmanian winery to be established and the longest in continual operation, Moorilla was founded in 1962 and focusses on a small, yet high quality output with estate-grown fruit, small batch winemaking in a gravity-assisted winery.
The best way to experience their ultra-premium wines is at MONA’s exquisite cellar door. Take a seat beneath a bona-fide John Olson masterpiece to sample their iconic wines, which emphasise texture and complexity as well as Sparkling styles. There are over 18 to choose from, but if you’re craving something different, selections from their Moo Brew beer label are also available to explore.
Or better still, take a guided tour of the Moorilla Vineyard, and taste vino straight from the tank for the ultimate way of immersing yourself in the works of a legendary name in Tasmanian winemaking.
665 Main Road, Berriedale, 7011.
Cellar Door at Ether Building, MONA, 655 Main Rd, Hobart
Open Friday to Monday, 12pm to 5 pm
Visit the Moorilla website
Pipers Brook
Nestled in the heart of Tasmanian wine country, Pipers Brook Vineyard in the Tamar region has been producing exceptional cool climate wines since 1974.
The unique combination of geography, temperate climate and proximity to Bass Strait helps to capture the purity of Tasmania across their range of award-winning wines, with particular emphasis given to Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Riesling along with Sparkling – all estate-grown and bottled for the highest control of the resulting product.
Tasmania’s largest family-owned winemaker, its cellar door offers tastings of the Pipers Brook, Kreglinger and Ninth Island ranges for you to sample while learning about the vineyard’s history, with a café offering a seasonal menu of locally-sourced produce that makes for a perfect grazing experience.
For those after something a little more exclusive, guests can book the two-bedroom Pipers Brook Villa and wake each morning to stunning views overlooking the estate’s vineyards. If you’re travelling by campervan, make sure to book ahead to secure free onsite RV parking.
Beat a path to Pipers Brook, and experience all that one of the original pioneers in Tasmanian wine has to offer.
1216 Pipers Brook Rd, Pipers Brook, 7254
Open daily from 10am to 4pm (Summer), Thursday to Monday 11am to 4pm (Winter)
Discover more about Pipers Brook Vineyard
BELL & GONG
A family-owned vineyard on the site of one of Tasmania’s oldest properties, Valleyfield, Bell & Gong is the love-child of Simon and Frances Stewart, who moved onto the Northern Midlands property to establish its vineyard in 2005. With its name drawn from Simon’s past life as a Master Mariner, Bell & Gong has managed to carve out a place for itself in Tasmania’s burgeoning boutique wine scene.
For a time, Simon also worked on the vineyards of the Hunter Valley, and the experience has served he and Frances well with Bell & Gong. From premium Pinot Noir to Sauvignon Blanc, their hand-tended, handpicked vines result in carefully crafted wines that have won them a spate of awards, making their cellar door a must-visit for anyone looking to sample what this exciting emerging producer is capable of!
873 Illawarra Road, Longford, 7301
Open 7 days except Good Friday and Christmas Day, by appointment only.
Visit the Bell & Gong website
CLOVER HILL
Founded by the Goelet family on the site of a former dairy farm in north-east Tasmania, Clover Hill was established in 1986 after an exhaustive search for an ideal site to dedicate to the purpose of producing world-class Sparkling wine to rival that of the Champagne region. If the critics’ responses are anything to go by, they succeeded in spades!
Located in Pipers River near Lebrina, Clover Hill exclusively crafts Sparkling wine in the Méthode Traditionnelle approach, using Sparkling’s ‘holy trinity’ of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Since its debut vintage in 1991, it has gained a reputation for uncompromising quality, and is today regarded as one of Australia’s finest Sparkling producers.
Poised atop a valley with views across the picturesque vineyards, Clover Hill’s cellar door offers a luxury wine tasting experience that’s sure to prove memorable. They also offer a spate of Adventure Experiences, including panoramic scenic flights, a private island picnic, a Flinders Island crayfish lunch and more, making this winery one to put on your bucket list!
60 Clover Hill Road, Lebrina, 7254
Open Wednesday to Sunday, 11am to 4.30pm
Visit the Clover Hill website
STONEY RISE
Stoney Rise had its origins in an epiphany, when long-time wine lovers Joe and Lou Holyman visited a ‘special vineyard’ and cellar door in the Tamar Valley in late 2003.
With Joe’s family having grown grapes and made wine in Tasmania since 1984, and Lou’s experience working in vineyards, they immediately recognised the vineyard’s potential – so much so, that the following year, the Holymans purchased the property, thus giving rise to Stoney Rise. An on-site winery would follow a short while later, in 2008.
Less than a kilometre from the Tamar River, today Stoney Rise grows top quality Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Trousseau and Grüner Veltliner across its 7.5 hectares. Informed by a minimal intervention approach, the resulting wines have led to Stoney Rise being recognised as amongst the best Pinot producers in the country.
Situated along the stunning Tamar River drive, their architecturally designed Cellar Door overlooks the vineyard and the nearby river, and is only 40 minutes from Launceston Airport – the perfect spot to enjoy both the Stoney Rise and Holyman ranges of wine, with small share plates available to snack on as you sample some of Tassie’s best.
96 Hendersons Lane, Gravelly Beach, 7276
Open year-round, Thursday to Monday 10am-5pm. Bookings recommended.
Visit the Stoney Rise website
CAPE BERNIER
Established in 1998 by Alastair Christie before coming into the ownership of Andrew and Jenny Sinclair in 2014, Cape Bernier is an award-winning single estate vineyard overlooking the stunning Marion Bay, on the slopes of an ancient volcanic range.
Specialising in Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris, Cape Bernier’s approach to winemaking is simple and minimally invasive. Made using the best of both old and new world methods, their wines are truly representative of the region and its pristine East Coast environment.
Located approximately 45 minutes from Hobart off the Arthur Highway, the Cape Bernier cellar door offers a full selection of wines, including their Méthode Traditionnelle Sparklings, for tasting – plus some cellar door-only specials. Definitely a must-visit!
230 Bream Creek Road, Bream Creek, 7175
Open Friday to Monday, 12pm to 5pm.
Visit the Cape Bernier website
FROGMORE CREEK
A joint venture between Tasmania’s Tony Scherer and California’s Jack Kidwiler, Frogmore Creek’s original organically managed vineyard was founded in 1997. The business grew quickly and added to its operations, most notably with the former Meadowbank Estate, today known as Cambridge and home to the Frogmore Creek cellar door.
Tended to by fifth-generation Coal River Valley farmer, Danny Belbin, Cambridge and its sibling vineyard Campania turn out some of the finest fruit to emerge from southern Tasmania’s soil, which senior winemaker Alain Rousseau turns into the engaging, balanced and elegant wines that have won Frogmore Creek such wide acclaim.
Their cellar door and restaurant, located 20 minutes from Hobart CBD, is set amongst the vineyard with exquisite vistas of the surrounding hills, but if you fancy you can also try their wines right on the Hobart waterfront at The Lounge, which boasts spectacular views of the city and Mount Wellington.
699 Richmond Road, Cambridge, 7170
Cellar door open Thursday to Monday, 10am to 5pm (11.30 to 3pm for Restaurant)
OR
The Lounge – 7/18 Hunter St, Hobart, 7000
Open Wednesday and Thursday from 4pm, Friday to Sunday from 12pm
Visit the Frogmore Creek website
BEST THINGS TO DO IN TASMANIA
Tasmania’s reputation as a tourist destination is already legendary, and its growing status as a premier wine region has only added to its charms. From stunning scenery to enchanting small towns, heritage architecture and gourmet produce, it really is a special place to visit. Here’s what we get excited for whenever our travels take us to the Apple Isle.
HIKING CRADLE MOUNTAIN
Tasmania is a hiker’s paradise, but one walk looms above all the others both figuratively and literally – the Cradle Mountain hike. Part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, you can opt for an accessible two-hour walk around the stunning Dove Lake – a glacially carved lake directly beneath Cradle Mountain – or take the day to scale the summit. Plan your hike at the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service website.
A VISIT TO MONA
Founded by David Walsh on the banks of the Derwent River to host his collection of ancient, modern and contemporary art, Tasmania’s Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is Australia’s largest private museum. With three levels of underground galleries to explore, it very quickly became one of Australia’s foremost cultural institutions, and is also the spiritual home of delightfully subversive Dark Mofo festival. A must-visit. Keep up with the latest exhibits at the MONA website.
THE SALAMANCA MARKET
First held in Hobart’s Salamanca Place in 1972, Salamanca Market is one of Tasmania’s most visited – and highly awarded – tourist attractions, with between 25,000 to 45,000 visitors attending every Saturday. Packed with artisan products and produce from over 230 stallholders each week, it’s the ideal way to enjoy the best of Tassie’s thriving gourmet and design scenes. For more information, visit the Salamanca Market website or Facebook page.
A ROUND OR TWO AT BARNBOUGLE
Consisting of three stunning courses – The Dunes, the Lost Farm, and Bougle Run –Barnbougle is one of the most beautiful golf locations on the Australian circuit. Carved from the natural contours of their coastal geology, each course has been designed by modern golf architect Tom Doak and ex-European tour pro and course designer Mike Clayton to honour the true links courses of Scotland and Ireland. Book your round at the Barnbougle website to avoid disappointment.
A TRIP TO THE TASMANIAN DEVIL UNZOO
Founded in 1978 with the purchase of the historic Brooklands Farm on the Tasman Peninsula, the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo (formerly the Tasmanian Devil Park) was one of Tassie’s first wildlife attractions. Dedicated to the conservation and rehabilitation of the unique animals for which it’s named, it’s gradually evolved over the last decade into a world-leading nature park expressly designed around the well-being of its animals. A unique experience for the whole family – learn more at the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo website.
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN TASMANIA
If you’re a foodie, you’d likely already know Tasmania’s reputation for first-class feeds! In addition to some spectacular winery restaurants, there’s no shortage of sensational spots to fill your belly, from the cities of Hobart and Launceston to hidden gems along the coasts and in the valleys. Here are some of our favourites:
- The Agrarian Kitchen Eatery – Unpretentious, diner-oriented service that celebrates local, seasonal produce, all served up in the vast expanses of the beautiful Bronte building in the small town of New Norfolk, Derwent Valley.
- Pigeon Hole Café – A true paddock to plate experience right in the heart of Hobart, thanks to Weston Farm Produce, with an ever-evolving menu based on the freshest, sustainably farmed ingredients.
- Black Cow Bistro – Located in historic Launceston, Black Cow Bistro showcases Tasmania’s premium, hormone-free beef in style, but also celebrates a host of fresh local produce and seafood in a relaxed, bistro atmosphere.
- AURA – Hobart’s first rooftop venue, AURA offers a dining experience that’s a literal high-point of the city’s food scene. With its unique panoramic views and shared, progressively styled menu, elevate your appetite at AURA.
- Van Bone – In the rolling hills of Marion Bay on the East Coast lies Van Bone, offering an intimate dining experience that truly captures a sense of place with its emphasis on food cooked at its seasonal peak.
- The Imbibers Wine, Cheese and Spirit Merchants – Located in Oatlands in the Midlands district, surrounded by Australia’s largest concentration of heritage buildings, Imbibers is all about the tasting experience with a small plate focus. Don’t forget to stop by the Deli!
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN TASMANIA
There’s so much to see and do in Tasmania that you’ll just want to stay forever! Here are some great ideas for your next stay on the Apple Isle!
LUXURY GLAMPING WITH DOMESCAPES TASMANIA
Nestled deep in the heart of the Tamar Valley Wine Route, this immersive accommodation experience is a must for any wine lovers or simply for those looking for a unique Tasmanian escape. Their bespoke geodesic domes offer the ultimate comfort and style, with each featuring its own ensuite. Soak up the views from your private bath tub on the deck, roast marshmallows in the firepit, and forget your cares with the ultimate glamping getaway. Book your dome at the Domescapes Tasmania website.
RELBIA LODGE
Escape to the beautiful wine region of Relbia in northern Tasmania with the luxury lakeside accommodation of Relbia Lodge. Relax alongside the vine rows with stunning rural views of White Hills and the neighbouring Josef Chromy vineyard, with the option of two separate, self-contained apartments or a stunning four-bedroom house to yourself. Just 10 minutes from Launceston CBD and Cataract Gorge, you’ll never want to leave. Book your stay at the Relbia Lodge website.
ROSEVEARS HOTEL
Situated in the heart of northern Tasmania on the banks of the Tamar River, the iconic Rosevears Hotel has stood for generations. First built in 1831, this truly historic country pub hotel offers a twist of sophistication with a variety of modern rooms, each with private balconies offering water views of the Tamar, all perfectly angled to catch the morning sun. There’s no better base camp from which to explore the 30-plus vineyards of the Tamar Valley! Make your reservation at the Rosevears Hotel website.
LISDILLON
Get up close and personal with the vines at Lisdillon, a working sheep farm and vineyard located on Tasmania’s East Coast. Family owned and operated, this historic farm – first established in 1830 – offers boutique cottage accommodation in a beautiful coastal location, with modern amenities and stunning views. A splendid spot for a weekend getaway, extended stay, or family holiday, and all just 90 minutes’ drive from Hobart. Book your cottage today at the Lisdillon website.
PUMPHOUSE POINT
A unique, adults-only retreat poised on a glacial lake and surrounded by century-old myrtle forests? If that sounds like your idea of heaven, then make haste to Pumphouse Point on Lake St Clair to experience Tasmania at its most tranquil… and most rugged! This unique wilderness retreat, once a Hydro-electric station, offers 18 beautifully-appointed rooms across two heritage buildings deep in Tassie’s pristine wilderness. There’s no wi-fi here – just the chance to reconnect to the real. Book your stay at the Pumphouse Point website.
Want to see more of what our great wine regions have to offer? Then don’t miss our comprehensive guide to Australia’s Best Wineries and Cellar Doors – from Hunter Valley in the east to Great Southern in the west, it’s the ultimate go-to guide for planning your next wine adventure.
For Wine Selectors Members, make sure to check out our Members Extras offers before planning your next trip, and discover what fantastic offers are available for your wine region destination
For more about Tasmanian wine, check out our in-depth article exploring Tasmania’s wine regions… or better yet, order some for yourself, experience some of the world’s best Sparkling wine, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and save with Wine Selectors!