Tamar Valley wineries slow down and take a sip

What would a trip to Tasmania’s north be, without visiting a winery, cider house or distillery. Actually, a trip to any part of Tasmania would be remiss not visiting a winery or six if we are being honest.

But this article is all about the best Tamar Valley wineries you just have to visit, which is in the northern part of the state. You will find information on some of the area’s distilleries and a dedicated cider house in our one day itineraries around Launceston. Now back to the wine…

Tamar Valley wineries are based around the Launceston region, which can be divided into three distinct wine areas. The three regions are the Tamar Valley and Pipers River/Brook-Lilydale to the north, whilst Relbia, is to the south of the city. The wineries in these three areas are all commonly referred to as the Tamar Valley wineries and within an easy drive from Launceston city. Add one of more to your travel plans and budget for a memorable experience.

Now, depending on the style of wine you like and the number of wineries you wish to visit in a day, it could take some time to get to them all. Especially, as at present there are over 30 wineries and growing. This can make for hard choices if time is limited, which is why we have put together this review of what we consider 15 of the best Tamar Valley wineries. Australia has some of the best wine regions in the world, Next to Tasmania you can’t go past the Barossa Valley is great for tasting wine

As a sensory consumer scientist, I have a broad palate and a range of preferences, in addition to being able to be objective when tasting. That said, it wasn’t easy to narrow our selection down, which is why there are 15 on the list. In addition to the we have included brief descriptions of other wineries in the area.

Whilst I have come to love the bold Tasmanian wines, my first passion for wines came from the Barossa Valley, in South Australia. This is one of the first established regions for wine and has so much to offer, you can find out more in the Ultimate guide to the Barossa Valley. It’s well worth a visit.

*Disclosure: We may have affiliate links with one or more of these companies mentioned & may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosures for further information.

Preview – 15 Best Tamar Valley wineries Tasmania

Our preview, briefly highlights our article, and links provided will allow you to read more. Discovering many of the best wineries in Tamar Valley.

  1. Tasting Time Allowances – gives a brief summary of the approx. duration for a tasting and winery distances
  2. Common Wine Styles of the Tamar Valley Wineries – an outline of the traditional grape variants and wine styles found in the Tamar Valley
  3. ‘Take Me Home’ wine freight scheme – brief overview of a Wine Tasmania and their offers.
  4. Map – Best 15 Tamar Valley Wineries – Outline of placement of all the wineries
  5. Along the Tamar River – provides a brief description and cellar door information for some of the wineries found in this area
  1. Out to Pipers River/Brook – provides a brief description and cellar door information for some of the wineries found in this area
  2. A Trip to Relbia – provides a  brief description and cellar door information for some of the wineries found in this area
  3. Alternative Options for a taste from the Tamar Valley Wineries – suggests other opportunities and alternative ways for tasting the wines of the region
  4. Other Tamar Valley Wineries along the way – a selection of other wines in the area  including a brief description and cellar door information

Tasting Time Allowances

To give you a bit of a guideline the distance to the first vineyard in each of the areas varies, the Tamar Valley wineries are the closest with the first being a 10-15min drive from Launceston. The Relbia area is only 15-20 mins drive and the Pipers Brook area is 30-40 mins drive. This is all depending on where you are staying or situated in Launceston. That said once you get to one of the areas, the distance between wineries is quite short.

Though you may have to allow for the ‘shiny thing’ factor as my husband calls it. Because there are lots of shiny things to stop and look at along the way, just the scenery alone is breath taking.

Additionally, allow for an average tasting to take between 40-60 minutes, this is dependent on the varieties on offer, those you wish to try, how many other guests are in the winery and how distracted you may become from the view. Several of the Tamar Valley wineries offer a variety of food to choose from, allowing a minimum of an hour for lunch service is prudent. The varieties on offer at select wineries include charcuterie and/or cheese platter, light snacks/meals, or a full menu. Alternatively, you could put together a picnic hamper or have one supplied to enjoy at one of the vineyards.

Note: Many of the wineries have a tasting cover charge, this is often refunded with the purchase of a bottle of wine.

Common Wine Styles of the Tamar Valley Wineries

The Tamar Valley wineries, like many in Tasmania, specialise in cold climate wines. You will discover the following varieties of Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir included at one or more of the Tamar Valley wineries listed. Additionally, Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio are becoming popular variants for the region. Other typical variants on offer at many of the wineries include Non-Vintage and/or Vintage Sparkling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Rose. Several of the wineries offer a non- vintage and vintage option for all their common variants. You will also find some of the wineries specialise in ‘Reserve’ wines created from a single block, where only these grapes are used.

Whilst many of the Tamar Valley wineries, grow similar or the same grape variants, there is a lot more that goes into the making of wine. Some factors that affect the fruit include, type of soil, pruning, time of harvesting and style. Other aspects that can affect the final product (the wine) include, skin contact time, fermentation, the aging process, both time and vessel. So, as you may see not all wines are created equal…

‘Take Me Home’ wine freight scheme

Every year Wine Tasmania put together a Tasmanian Wine Guide of selected wineries in the various wine regions all over Tasmania. Whilst a selection of Tamar Valley wineries is included in the guide,  they don’t include all the wineries in the three areas that are available for tastings. That said I would still personally download or pick up a copy of the guide to use as a reference.

In particular so you can be familiar with, which of the various wineries that provides the ‘Take me Home’ freight scheme.

These are identified by the x12 logo

Take me home logo

Best 15 Tamar Valley Wineries Map

 

Image of map representing the 15 Best Tamar Valley wineries

Along the Tamar River

As you travel along the Tamar River from Launceston you will discover this area of Tamar Valley Wineries is especially an abundance of wineries on offer.

Velo Cellar Door and Timbre Restaurant

Velo – This vineyard is considered the gateway the Tamar Valley wineries, being the first you will discover when leaving Launceston. Where you can choose to stop first and take in the beautiful surrounds overlooking the vineyard. The vineyard offers a traditional selection of wines for the region. In addition to a Cabernet Sauvignon, handcrafted from the oldest Cabernet Sauvignon vines in Tasmania. 

All fruit at the small family run vineyard is handpicked and hand plunged, before a gentle basket pressing. The attention to detail in the harvesting and winemaking is reflected in the depth and character in the final products. With many delightful variations, there is truly something for everyone at this vineyard.

Alternatively, to stopping first is a visit on your return trip, and enjoy a beautiful lunch at Timbre. Your lunch can be enjoyed before or after a visit to the cellar door. The cellar door is available Mon-Fri 10:00-16:00 and Sat-Sun 10:00-17:00, it is recommended to call and book tastings. At the cellar door a guided tasting is available from the wines available at the time of your visit. These may include but are not limited to a Vintage Sparkling, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Rose, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon. For me personally, their Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon were my standout favourites.

Tamar Ridge – Offers some of the traditional varieties found at Tamar Valley wineries. However, I have to be honest it’s the Pinot range that draws me and my scientist’s heart here. Fostering a philosophy of art and science to create an exceptional range of Pinot Noir. Where they admit to constantly say ‘I wonder what would happen if …’ . The Pinot Noir range includes an Estate Pinot, a single block, reserve range, a special research series, which offers an exceptional experience for the Pinot lover.

The cellar door is open daily between 10:00-16:00, for three different styles of tastings can be booked. A bar menu is offered over the weekend consisting of a tapas and small plates of locally sourced produce. Sit back and enjoy the views of the Tamar River, whilst being taken through a guided tasting or sipping on wine enjoying a light meal.

One of the tastings includes a visit to neighbouring distillery, Turner Stillhouse. Here you can take a tour of the distillery and sample one of the three small batch gins. Alternatively, just around the bend you will discover Bradys Lookout Cider both are featured in our ‘Best One Day Itineraries Around Launceston’.

Taking a detour following the river and heading towards Gravelly Beach you will discover

Stoney Rise Tasting image

Stoney Hill Rise – This family owned and run business focused on producing the best Pinot and Chardonnay they could. In my opinion they are beautiful wines, which match their beautifully designed tasting room, with its elegant interior. Alternatively, a place outside beside the outdoor fireplace offers a spectacular view.

The vineyard expanded to include, some more Pinot in addition to Grüner Veltliner and Trousseau variants. Included in their extensive wine range are two preservative free wines a Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir. In addition to offering delicious wine, an exquisite snack menu of Charcuterie, Sardines and Cheese between 12:30-15:00 is available. Other drink options are available for non-wine drinkers.

Marions Vineyard – this family run winery first established in 1979, is now into its second generation of family still running the vineyard. Respecting the land, fauna and flora of the area, if you ask they will tell you ‘the grapevines love living here also’. Fully certified organic and biodynamic, they have some wonderful wines and a selection of local produce at the cellar door.

Select from their extensive range of traditional whites and reds of the Tamar Valley wineries. Or look for something a bit different even special with their single barrel releases of Tempranillo, Cabernet Franc and Cascade (Vitis Lambrusca grape). Discover, their Pét-Nat (pétillant naturel) a naturally sparkling wine style becoming popular. My personal favourite is their Syrah. Stay for a bit longer feasting in the vineyard, with a picnic platter supplied from the Taverna Delicatessen where you can customise your own platter.

Marions Vineyard cellar door

Travelling around to join the main road you will discover…

Winter Brook Vineyard – This small family run boutique vineyard specialises in making a superb range of limited release, specialty wines, typically from Austrian and Germanic grape varieties. Wines included in the specialty range consist of Grüner Veltliner Dornfelder and Maverick, with a Blaufränkisch soon to be released. A range of specially blended whites are also on offer, including Melange Blanc, and Fume Blanc. In addition to these specialty wines, several of the more traditional wines of the region, are produced. That including a ‘Reserve’ Pinot Noir, made exclusively from a single block (Block No.1). Furthermore, during your visit, you are able to try the cider produced from apples and nashi pears grown on the property.

The cellar door has seasonal opening times, which should be checked before venturing out. The cellar door, tasting may vary depending on production and stock available. An example of the wines available for tasting include Riesling, Fume Blanc, Pinot Gris, Melange Blanc, Chardonnay and a sample of their Cider. Delight in the magnificent views, whilst enjoying your tasting, take a picnic lunch or book ahead to organise a cheese and cracker pack available. In my opinion this is definitely one of the Tamar Valley wineries not to missed.

Winter brook Cellar door

Moores Hill – a truly delightful boutique vineyard and wine to match. Great care in the vineyard with, care to the soil, minimum nasties and gently caring for the grapes with handpicking. Creating an exceptional collection of wines, which include the traditional varieties of Tamar Valley wineries. In addition to a range Cabernet Merlot and a special Pinot Noir, their vintage ‘single block’, proclaimed as a bigger bolder Pinot.

Sit before the fire and sip one of their exceptional wines or take a seat on the deck, and taste whilst admiring the vineyards and view. The cellar door hours are Tues- Sun: 11:00-16:00, reservations are recommended, with grazing boards, cheese box or seafood plates available. Also you will discover a selection of local Tasmanian produce is available at the cellar door.

Holms Oakhere you will discover, literally a marriage made in heaven, winemaker and viticulturalist. One tending the vines like one of his own children, whilst the other creates exquisite wines that leave you wanting more. This small vineyard produces one of the best selection of wines, with some produced from vines planted in 1983, some of the oldest vines in Tasmania. A mix of hand and machine picking is used, which is dependent on the grape variety.

You find many of the traditional varieties of Tamar Valley wineries, but it doesn’t end there. You will also encounter an Arneis, a white grape variety originating from the Piedmont region in Italy. As well as the Cabernet Franc, created from the original vines, one of the Tasmania’s only Shiraz’s, a Merlot also a rare breed in Tasmania. The Cellar Door is open Mon-Fri 10:00-14:00 from 1 June 2022, reservations recommended, with a time limit of up to 75 minutes.

Out to Pipers River/Brook

In addition to varieties traditionally grown at Tamar Valley wineries, the Pipers River/Brook area is home to some of Australia’s finest sparkling wine. To the point that this area of the Tamar Valley is colloquially known as ‘Sparkling Tasmania’. With five of the areas vineyards consistently producing nationally and internationally award winning Vintage Sparkling.

Bay of Fires – founded in the 1990’s, with winemakers and viticultural alike sharing a passion to create outstanding Tasmania wines, which has continued throughout the years. Crafting distinctive captivating Tasmanian wines with a focus on quality and consistency. Grapes are selected for their character and quality, constantly assessed to capture their uniqueness before being handpicked.

The cellar door is a delight to visit surrounded by stunning views and native flora, take in the scenery on a walk after your experience where you may even spot the elusive local platypus. There are several experiences that you can book that are available at the cellar door. These include a Tasmania Explorers Tasting, a Premium Arras Tasting, a Vertical Pinot Noir Tastings, a Wine, Wildlife & Vineyard Walk, a Tasmania En Croute/Arras Masterclass, and even a Riesling Masterclass. Cellar door opening hours Thurs-Mon 10:00-17:00 by appointment only.

Sinapius – a family run vineyard started small on 2 ha (5 acres) in 2005, with a simple philosophy of natural ferments, minimal additions, time, and patience. Crafting exceptional wines, with a major focus on the vineyard, the site, the ancient soils, and watching seasonal variations. Stating – ‘We are wine growers as for us, there is no separation between vineyard and winery’. Fermenting using natural yeasts originating from the vineyard and winery, with minimal sulphur and no additional enzymes or tannins added. Managing and participating in every step of the process, from hand tending to distribution, bottling is even done onsite, when the wine is ready, if it needs more time, it gets it.

Linda Morice and Vaughn Dell started Sinapius with a single goal to create the finest quality wine with minimal interference. Through hard work and dedication, they achieved this early on in the business. Sadly, with the sudden passing of Vaughn, Linda and their daughters carry on this legacy which is reflected in the exceptional wines produced.  

In addition to wines typical of Tamar Valley wineries, Sinapius produces specialty wines consisting of Gewurztraminer, Grüner Veltliner, Pinot Blanc, Ribolla Gialla and Gamay grapes. With an especially Visit the cellar door and try one of the delightful wines produced here, my personal favourites are the  Grüner Veltliner and Vaughn’s Jardin Gamay. If you ask at the cellar door you will hear the story of how Vaughn’s Jardin Gamay became. Opening Hours: Thurs-Fri-Mon 11:00-17:00 Sat-Sun-Public Holidays 12:00-17:00

Image of Sinapius Cellar door

Jansz – named for explorer Abel Janszoon Tasman, on the Heemskerk the stage was set. A region recognised by a famous champagne house for it’s similarities both in climate and soil to the northeast France region. Partnered with the Heemskerk wines planting Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vines in 1986. In 1998, the regions potential was again recognised by current owners, have established one of Australia’s most highly regarded Sparkling wine houses. The house of Jansz is solely dedicated to creating outstanding sparkling wine.

Jansz Tasmania is a luxury sparkling wine house, solely devoted to the art of sparkling winemaking since 1986. In addition to being the birthplace of Méthode Tasmanoise, which isn’t just a process of winemaking but more the capturing of the essence of Tasmania.

Visit the wine room where a range of experiences are offered, whether you opt for a guided tasting or expand on this and stay a while. Experiences include a Jansz Tasting flight, Jansz and Tasmanian Cheese Plate, a Tasmanian Cheese Plate, or a Jansz Tasmania Picnic. Wine room opening hours Thurs-Sun 11:00-16:00, bookings are strongly encouraged.

Situated just at down the hill from Jansz is the Pipers Brook Vineyard where you are able to discover another of the fabulous sparkling wines of the region, Kreglinger Sparkling. Produced by Kreglinger Australia an  extension of the Belgium company Kreglinger Wine Estates.

Brook Eden vineyard – a small family vineyard established in 1988, a hidden gem, situated on the banks of Pipers Brook in a scenic valley. A great example of cold-climate viticulture, close-planted vines on 3 ha (7.5 acres), of slow ripening, hand-tended and picked grapes. Planted with the traditional varieties of Tamar Valley wineries, with the exception of Lagrein and red grape variety native to Northern Italy. Creating wines on this sustainably managed vineyard, that contain an excellence of flavour and distinct cold-climate characteristics.

The cellar door is open 11:00-17:00, with daily offering tastings Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Rosato, Pinot Gris and Sparkling. Enjoy the property and wander the wetlands and chance a sighting of the shy platypus that live there.

Additionally, before or after visiting Brook Eden stop into Fork it Farm. Pick up one of their delicious Charcuterie Platters, enhancing you Tamar Valley wineries adventure. The farm itself is an experience, you can sit and admire the view BYO wine or beer whilst picnicking. Visit the meat shed for some great produce both meat and vegetable are both delicious. Call ahead to order your Charcuterie Platter. Open Wed-Sun 11:00-15:00

Apogee – owned and run by Dr Andrew Pirie, who is one of the most respected winemakers in Australia. Who in the early 1970’s, began his journey in search of an area with similar terrior to the cold-climate regions of Northern France. Purchasing land in Northern Tasmania in Late 1973 in partnership with his brother. His search formed part of his PhD in Viticulture, the first in Australia, completed in 1977. With 40 years’ experience examining the wine climates and predicting terrior proclaiming today’s knowledge is more precise. Purchasing the property that Apogee now stands to apply his knowledge of the best index for grapevine ripening and planting yet another sparkling wine vineyard. Choosing the name Apogee – meaning ‘the highest point’.

The philosophy at Apogee uses the latest climatology information to detect the optimum location for sparkling wine. Using the champagne grape varieties of Chardonnay, Pinot noir and Pinot Meunier and a small amount of Alto Pinot gris. Using only single vineyard wines to fully reflect the prominent conditions and intensity of the vineyard. Whilst using similar sizing of the average holding in the Champagne region of 2 ha (5 acres). With main production being of a classic traditional-method sparkling. In my personal opinion and my experience with this wine, the philosophy is sound with each year’s vintage developing more on the previous year.

Cellar Door Visits are by appointment only where you can sample one or all of the four wines produce from the vineyard. The choices include the Deluxe Vintage Brut, a Deluxe Vintage Rosé, in addition to a small amount of still wine varieties being available of Alto Pinot Gris and Pinot noir.

Note: With five of Australia’s best Sparkling Wine Houses in this area of Tamar Valley wineries, literally within minutes from each other, I believe Dr Pirie’s theories are well founded…

Clover Hill – the last of the fabulous five as I have begun to think of them. Is another Australian Sparkling wine house focusing predominantly on the creation of premium sparkling wine, in the Méthode traditionnelle. Established in the late 1980’s with the debut vintage produced in 1991, and they haven’t looked back. With the name Clover Hill becoming tantamount to refinement and sophistication, with a reputation of supreme quality.

Whilst in essence Clover Hill is a boutique Sparkling Wine House. Classic varieties traditional to the Tamar Valley wineries small parcels on the Lebrina estate. Producing the IDIOM range, an exploration into the still wine variety.

The cellar door at Clover Hill is one of the most impressive I have had the privilege to enter. Partake in a traditional tasting flight at one of the beautifully designed and decorated indoor areas. Alternatively enjoy one of the outdoor areas, overlooking the vineyard, a menu designed around small plates is also available. It is recommended to book for tastings and light meals at the cellar door. In addition to a classical flight tasting a variety of experiences are available to choose from, be bold and go beyond the tasting.

Clover Hill wine tasting experience

A trip to Relbia

The Relbia region only contains a small selection of Tamar Valley Wineries, however there are a couple that are worth a mention and a visit. These are a perfect to include in one of our ‘Best One Day Itineraries Around Launceston’.

Josef Chromy Wines – this vineyard and the man it’s named for, have an astounding presence in the Tasmanian food and wine industry. With Josef Chromy being instrumental in the development, in addition to once having owned some of the best producing and performing Tamar Valley wineries. The vineyard is set on 61ha (150acre) in the Relbia area, producing Riesling, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir variants. In my opinion these wines are some of the nicest and well worth a taste.

Visit the 1880 cellar door where you can purchase a wine flight and taste one or all of the varieties on offer. Alternatively, book one of the experiences on offer at the estate, whether it’s a tasting and lunch (Thurs-Mon, May-August), take a peek behind the label or one other you may be interested. The estate is also well known for the numerous events, it holds throughout the year including Effervescence, Tasmania. 

Additionally, you can dine at the restaurant during your visit, choose from a menu that focusses on showcasing local produce. The restaurant is available, Thurs-Mon (May-August) and 7 days a week at other times (bookings are recommended – 2hr limit per booking). An alternative option is for casual outdoor dining when weather permits, to enjoy a cheese board. Immerse yourself in the spectacular view of the ground, whilst sipping delightful wine.

Bundaleera Vineyard – a small family run boutique vineyard, spread over 2 ha (5 acres) which overlooks the picturesque hills of Relbia hugging the North Esk River.  Producing the traditional wine styles of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Sparkling. A trip to the cellar door offers not only a taste of the exceptional wines, but a tranquil setting. Being positions amongst majestic gums, with beautiful scenery to feast your eyes on, it’s a match made in heaven. Visits to the cellar door are by appointment only. Please contact Bundaleera in advance, to come and experience their exceptional wines, cheese platters are also available by arrangement before visiting.

In addition to the cellar door and at Bundaleera, they offer accommodation at the vineyard, by way of two cosy modern cottages. If you have ever wanted to sleep amongst the vines, this is one of the options available throughout the Tamar Valley wineries. Tastings and cheese platters are available during your stay, contact when booking or once arrived to organise. As with any vineyard, there will be people working on and off especially during harvest.

Alternative Options for a taste from the Tamar Valley Wineries

As an alternative to driving yourself, as you visit the Tamar Valley wineries. Why not book a tour, with lunch, cheese and food included with and be chauffeured around by knowledgeable guides of the area.

Prestige Tours and Luxury Tours Tas, also offer some great  variety of options for half and full day tours.

Another option would be to visit one of the specialised wine providores that allows tasting flights of several Tamar Valley wineries.

Tamar Valley Wine Centre in Exeter

Visit the wine centre in Exeter, which is home to over 200 wines from the region, and beyond. Sit back and relax with a wine tasting, Additionally, whilst in the area, be sure you visit the bakery whilst in Exeter across the road for a savoury or sweet treat.

Devil’s Door Café and Wine Bar

Offering delicious Tasmanian food and wine, Wed-Thurs: 08:00-20:00, Fri-Sat: 08:00-till late and Sun: 08:00-18:00. Select from a range of delicious coffee, treats and light meal menu with wine, beer, cider and gin available. Additionally on a Sunday afternoon you are able to partake in a wine and gin tasting, contact for bookings.

Relbia Estate Cellar Door

Located at Penny Royal, the cellar door showcases the estate wines, whilst you sit inside the delightful cellar door. Alternatively, you are able to sit on the alfresco terrace and enjoy a tasting overlooking the lagoon. Being located at Penny Royal offers the opportunity to take part in one of the activities as highlighted in our one day activities around Launceston or enjoy lunch at the restaurant.

Tamar Ridge Cellar selection

Other Tamar Valley Wineries along the way

So many to list, here are some other Tamar Valley Wineries that may have what you are looking for.

Along the Tamar River

Utzinger Wines is a new vineyard on the rise is worth keeping an eye out for the opening of their cellar door.

Grey Sands Vineyard – a small family run vineyard at Glengarry, just a 10 min deviation off the main road. Offering some truly delightful wines both, single grape varieties and uniquely exceptional blends  The cellar door is open by appointment on weekends, visit to taste one of the unique wines on offer, and take a stroll around the exceptional garden.

Loira Vines – a small vineyard that offers both white and red wine from handpicked vines. In addition to cider made from pink lady and golden delicious apples. The cellar door is open Fri-Sun only, with food platters available between 11:00-15:00.

Swinging Gate Vineyard – with the traditional red and white wines of the region and cider made from Jazz and Gala apples, the cider is divine. The vineyard also offers unique dome escape accommodation within  the vineyards.

Glendale Vineyard – is up from Swinging Gate, with their unique cellar door inside a 1920’s apple shed. Here they offer sweet or dry Riesling, chardonnay, rosé and pinot noir, which can be tasted relaxing by the fire. The cellar door is re-opening in June 2022

Iron Pot Bay Vineyard – was established in 1988, still following the old-school pruning techniques and hand picking. It is home to more than 23,000 vines including varieties of Gewürztraminer, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.

Waterton Hall wines – set in a magnificent 1850’s homestead once a girls boarding school run by the Sisters of St Joseph’s. Offer a wonderful selection of Riesling, Shiraz, Viognier, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines. Contact directly for tasting and event opportunities.

Goaty Hill Wines – offer stunning views across the vineyard from the cellar door, relax and sample their range, which includes traditional wines found at many of the Tamar Valley wineries, in addition to Pinot Gris. Whilst at the vineyard select from one of the gourmet platters on offer to compliment your tasting. Open Thurs-Mon 11:00-17:00, with bookings recommended.

Cabbage Tree Hill – set on 53 acres once a Chinese Market Garden, in addition to other significant historical uses. Wander around the property or relax overlooking the vines as you partake in one of the experiences on offer. Open 7 days 11:00-17:00 or contact to arrange one of their tasting experiences.

Swinging Gate Cellar Door

Out to Pipers River/Brook-Lilydale

Delamere – this small family run vineyard is exclusively planted with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay variants. Using a close planting technique across the 12 ha (30 acres) vineyard. The vineyard is 100% handpicked due to the close planting and nature of the terrain on which the vines are planted. Tastings consist of 4 different wines taking approx. 45 minutes, available Thurs-Mon 10:30–16:30, with booking recommended though walk-ins are welcome subject to availability.

Dalrymple Vineyards – established in 1987, on sloping hills that overlook Bass Strait making the site unique where pre-dominantly Pinot Noir grapes are grown. On a quest to produce the perfect Pinot Noir, additional distinct sites contribute to the Dalrymple label. In addition to the five Pinot Noirs from single sites and a blend, a Chardonnay is available, which is produced from grapes harvested from the Pipers Brook estate. Tastings are available on site, for taking approx. 40 Minutes, Mon 10:00–13:00 and Thurs-Fri 10:00–13:00, bookings are preferred.

Brook Eden vineyard – a small family vineyard established in 1988, situated on the banks of Pipers Brook in a scenic valley. A great example of cold-climate viticulture, with slow ripening grapes are hand-tended and picked. Creating wines with excellent flavour and distinct cold-climate characteristics. The cellar door is open 11:00-17:00, with daily offering tastings Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Rosato, Pinot Gris and Sparkling.

The Ridge North Lilydale – returning to Tasmania after a 30yr absent the two producers at this vineyard have strong historical roots to the area. A small vineyard set on 2 ha (5 acres), at what the producers proclaim to be a perfect altitude, was planted with 6,000 vines. Producing traditional style of wines for the region have excelled with many of their early vintages earning great praise. Tastings are available Sun: 10:30-17:00 or by appointment.

A Trip to Relbia

Jinglers Creek Vineyard – a small family owned vineyard, first as you enter the Relbia Loop, which takes you around the wineries in the area. Cellar door tastings are available Sat-Sun 11:00-16:00, where you can taste one of the wines produced on site.

Sen Vineyard – a new vineyard with one vintage under its belt, of Pinot Noir, shows great promise. With great attention to detail and care, contact directly for tasting information.

Ryanna Vineyard – another small boutique vineyard, located 10mins from Launceston CBD, varieties grown on the estate are Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Gewurztraminer. In chemical free soil, slow ripened, handpicked and aged in French oak, promises all the characteristics of premium wines. Contact directly for Cellar Door requests

As you can see by this impressive and extensive list makes one day in the vineyards a bit of a challenge. Why not stay a bit longer and make it two or three days among the Tamar Valley wineries of Launceston?