SOUTHERN TASMANIAN WINERIES

Despite its many different microclimates, Tasmania is officially classified as a single wine region. In the three valleys (Derwent, Coal and Huon) that make up the Southern Tasmania area, there are more than 30 vineyards, all of which make the most of their particular conditions. In general, the area is known for its chardonnay, riesling and pinot noir – all cool-climate wines. There are numerous cellar doors in the area and you’ll probably want to spend a day in each of the valleys; distances in Tasmania can be deceiving. Enjoy tastings of French-style wines and a light lunch in a heritage-listed cottage at Derwent Estate, known for its calcareous (chalky) soil that comes from 250 million-year-old limestone in the area. In the Coal River Valley, you can enjoy the award-winning Pooley 2019 Riesling or the 2018 Pinot

Noir while eating a freshly wood-fired pizza in their courtyard (squint a little on a sunny day and you could be in Italy).

And head to the Huon for a tasting at Elsewhere Vineyard – one of Australia’s most southerly vineyards and home to a menagerie of animals including miniature sheep, Highland cows and chickens.