Coal River Valley Wine Tour

Discover Tasmania’s Wine & Gourmet Scene on the Coal River Valley Wine Tour

If you’re looking to experience some of Tasmania’s best wines paired with delicious food and welcoming vineyard visits, the Coal River Valley Wine Tour promises a relaxed, friendly day out. This highly-rated tour from Hobart combines scenic drives, expert-guided tastings, and a touch of local gourmet flair—all in one seamless experience.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the luxury transport in Mercedes vehicles, the chef-prepared lunch included in the price, and the small group setting that encourages genuine conversations with guides and vineyard owners. A potential consideration? The tour runs for about 7 to 8 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full-day outing. It’s ideal for wine lovers, foodies, or anyone wanting to explore Tasmania’s wine region without the hassle of planning.

If you enjoy authentic, intimate experiences with knowledgeable hosts and a variety of tastings, this tour could be just what you’re after. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a rundown or seasoned wine enthusiasts keen to discover hidden gems.

Key Points

• Luxury Transportation: Travel in comfort in Mercedes vehicles designed for a relaxed, upscale experience.
• Gourmet Food & Tastings: A chef-prepared lunch complements the wine tastings, adding a gourmet touch.
• Small Group Size: With a maximum of 11 travelers, enjoy personalized attention and meaningful interactions.
• Variety of Vineyards: Visit 4-5 different cellar doors, with weekly variations to showcase the region’s diversity.
• Expert Guides & Winemakers: Guided tastings by experts, including winemakers themselves, enrich your understanding.
• Flexible & Personal: Requests are welcomed, making each tour slightly different and tailored to the group’s preferences.

An In-Depth Look at the Coal River Valley Wine Tour

This tour begins in Hobart’s CBD, with a convenient pickup point on Elizabeth Street & Davey Street. From there, you’re whisked away in a luxury Mercedes vehicle—a step above standard coach tours—setting the tone for a comfortable and refined day. The 7-8 hour itinerary is carefully curated to balance wine tastings, food, and scenic stops, ensuring a well-paced experience without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Start at Riversdale Estate Winery

Your day kicks off with a visit to Riversdale Estate, where the charm of the French Bistro-style lunch and the cellar door make it a standout. The admission ticket here includes wine tastings, but the highlight is the chance to enjoy a chef-prepared meal in a picturesque setting. Many reviews highlight how this lunch elevates the experience, turning a wine tour into a true culinary escape.

Wicked Cheese Co.

Next, a short stop at The Wicked Cheese Co. provides a quick, 20-minute cheese tasting. This stop is perfect for those who appreciate artisan cheeses and want to add a gourmet dimension to their wine journey. Reviewers note the quality of the cheese and the friendly staff, making it a nice palate cleanser before more wine.

Brinktop Wines & Pooley Wines

Guided by the winemaker at Brinktop, this stop offers a unique chance to hear about the winemaking process firsthand. The 50-minute tasting here is more personalized, giving guests insight into what makes the wines special.

Following that, Pooley Wines provides another 50-minute tasting, where you can sample a variety of wines and enjoy the vineyard’s scenic setting. Many guests comment on the knowledgeable guides and how they make complex wine concepts accessible.

Caledon Estate & Pressing Matters

These stops—each around 45 to 50 minutes—continue to showcase regional diversity. At Caledon Estate, you’ll explore a different style of wine, while Pressing Matters is known for its approachable wines and friendly atmosphere.

Frogmore Creek & Uplands Vineyard

Frogmore Creek offers a quick 30-minute tasting, but it’s well worth it for the quality and views. Uplands Vineyard stands out because it’s hosted by the owners themselves, giving visitors authentic insights into the family-run operation. Reviewers mention how interacting with the owners adds a personal touch to the experience.

Glaetzer Dixon & Puddleduck Wines

The final stops include Glaetzer Dixon, guided by the winemaker, and Puddleduck Wines, with a more casual tasting. At Glaetzer Dixon, the guided tasting is a highlight, with guests appreciating the behind-the-scenes knowledge. Puddleduck provides a fun, relaxed conclusion to the day.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Many reviewers, including Lawrence, describe their day as “great food, good company, and a beautiful sunny day.” The small group size ensures a friendly, intimate vibe, which many guests find makes the experience more authentic and less commercial.

The knowledgeable guides and winemakers are often praised for their approachability and expertise, making the tastings informative without feeling like a lesson. Guests also appreciate the flexibility—requests for specific wines or stops are welcomed, adding a personal touch.

The Value of This Experience

At $152.73 per person, the tour offers considerable value. It includes transport, all tastings, and a delicious, chef-prepared lunch—things that would add up if booked separately. The tour’s intimate group size and personalized approach ensure you get the most out of your day, with plenty of opportunities for questions and photo stops.

Practical Aspects

The tour departs at 9:30am from Hobart CBD and generally returns close to the starting point, often dropping guests at their accommodations. The group of up to 11 travelers makes it manageable without feeling crowded. Since the tour is mostly outdoors and involves walking through vineyards, comfortable shoes and a hat are recommended.

Guests should note that the tour is strictly 18+, perfect for adult wine enthusiasts. The free cancellation policy—up to 24 hours in advance—adds flexibility for travelers unsure about their plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits wine lovers eager to explore Tasmania’s renowned vineyards without the hassle of organizing transport or tastings. Foodies will enjoy the gourmet lunch and cheese stop, while those interested in learning about wine production will appreciate the guided tastings by winemakers. It’s also a great pick for small groups wanting a relaxed, personalized day that balances education, scenery, and gourmet treats.

If you’re after a luxurious, authentic experience with friendly hosts and a variety of wine styles, this tour hits the mark. It’s less about ticking boxes and more about enjoying quality time, good conversation, and beautiful surroundings.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-wine drinkers?
While the focus is on wine tastings, non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenic drives, gourmet lunch, and cheese tastings. However, most activities involve wine, so it’s best for those comfortable with tasting.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without rushing.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers transport in luxury Mercedes vehicles, all wine tastings, cheese tasting, and the chef-prepared lunch.

Can I request specific wineries or stops?
Yes, the tour allows for requests and can tailor some of the stops to suit your preferences, depending on the week’s schedule.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Elizabeth Street & Davey Street in Hobart CBD and generally returns there or to your accommodation if nearby.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, it is strictly for travelers 18 years and older.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, and receive a full refund.

How many people will be on the tour?
A maximum of 11 travelers ensures a personalized experience with plenty of interaction.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The provided info doesn’t specify accessibility, so it’s best to contact the provider directly if needed.

Final Thoughts

The Coal River Valley Wine Tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience Tasmania’s prime wine regions. From the comfort of luxury transport to expert-guided tastings and a gourmet lunch, it combines education, scenery, and gourmet indulgence in a single day. Small groups, flexible stops, and friendly guides create an authentic feel that appeals to those wanting more than just a commercial tasting experience.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned wine enthusiast, this tour delivers a taste of Tasmania’s finest wines in a setting that’s relaxed, informative, and downright enjoyable. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting to combine wine discovery with scenic beauty and excellent company.