Tasmanian Premium Wine Tour with Tasmanian Cheese Platter

If you’re looking for a way to sample some of Tasmania’s best wines while soaking in the gorgeous scenery around Hobart, this Tasmanian Premium Wine Tour might just be your ideal day out. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, hundreds of reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-curated experience that combines wine, cheese, and scenic views into a memorable trip.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the visit to four distinct wineries allows you to taste a broad spectrum of Tasmania’s cool climate whites, reds, and sparkling wines. Second, the opportunity to meet winemakers and explore barrel rooms adds a personal touch that elevates the experience beyond simple tastings. Third, the delicious Tasmanian Cheese Platter is a perfect complement to your wine journey, offering local flavors at their best.

A potential consideration is the not-included lunch, which means you’ll need to buy your own at Wattlebanks or Pooley, depending on the day. While this might feel like an extra expense, it also provides the flexibility to choose something that suits your taste and dietary needs.

This tour suits wine lovers, foodies, or anyone wanting to experience Tasmania’s renowned vineyards without the hassle of organizing transport or visits. It’s particularly good for small groups, with a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

Key Points

• Full-day experience exploring diverse Tasmanian wineries
• Meet winemakers and explore barrel rooms for an insider look
• Includes tastings of sparkling wines, whites, and reds
• Beautiful scenery and a Tasmanian Cheese Platter complement the day
• Small group size for a personal touch
• Flexible end location with options for dinner or hotel return

Why You’ll Love This Wine Tour

This tour is a wonderful way to tick off your Tasmania wine tasting list with minimal fuss. The combination of 4 distinct vineyards means you’ll get a wide taste of what Tasmania’s cool climate viticulture can produce. Plus, the small group size—usually just 16 or fewer people—means you’ll get more personalized attention from your guides, who are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

The scenic drives through the lush Tasmanian countryside are a highlight, and many reviewers mention how the guides share insightful stories about the regions and the wines they produce. The opportunity to meet winemakers adds depth, allowing for conversations about the craft and challenges of winemaking here.

The highlight for many is the wine and chocolate pairing at the final stop, which has gained a reputation as a standout experience. The wines at these wineries, especially the pinots, are frequently praised for their quality and variety. Guests often note that the wineries are “generous and friendly,” with staff explaining each wine clearly and passionately.

The inclusion of a Tasmanian Cheese Platter makes this a complete tasting experience. It’s not just about wine; it’s about indulging in local produce, which many visitors find adds a satisfying dimension to the day.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Brooke Street Pier

Your day begins at Brooke Street Pier, where you’ll meet your guide and start with a relaxed coffee and chat. This initial meet-up helps set the tone, making the day feel less like a tour and more like catching up with friends. The stroll from this central location offers a scenic start, with perfect opportunities to snap photos of Hobart’s waterfront.

Stop 2: Derwent Estate

The first winery, Derwent Estate, is renowned for its thoughtful approach to winemaking. Here, you’ll enjoy a wine tasting session that showcases some of Tasmania’s acclaimed cool climate whites and reds. Reviewers frequently mention the generous pours and knowledgeable staff. One noted, “12 wines poured at Derwent Estate, I tasted some that will definitely be in my wine cellar,” which indicates how impressive the selection can be.

Stop 3: Pressing Matters

Next, Pressing Matters offers a chance to explore the wine production process firsthand. You can expect to see barrel rooms and learn about the aging process, adding a layer of appreciation for the wines you taste. Guests often appreciate the personalized attention and enthusiasm of the staff here, which enhances the tasting.

Stop 4: Wattlebanks Cafe & Providore or Pooley Wines

On weekdays, guests buy their own lunch at Wattlebanks, while Saturday tours typically stop at Pooley Wines for lunch. Although lunch isn’t included, visitors often comment on the variety of options available, from casual cafes to gourmet offerings. The flexibility allows travelers to tailor their experience, whether they prefer a quick bite or a leisurely meal.

Stop 5: Pooley Wines

At Pooley Wines, the focus is on premium offerings, including a notable wine and chocolate pairing. Many reviews highlight this as a definite highlight, with some calling it “a treat for the senses.” The winery’s welcoming atmosphere and stunning vineyard views make it a favorite stop.

Stop 6: Craigow Vineyard

The final stop, Craigow Vineyard, impresses with its luxurious cellar door experience. Many guests mention that the wines here are “next level,” especially the pinots and reds. The guided tastings are often described as engaging, with knowledgeable staff sharing insights into the region’s unique terroir.

End of Tour: La Sardina Loca

The tour concludes at La Sardina Loca, a cozy wine bar perfect for dinner or a few quiet drinks. Alternatively, you can explore North Hobart or Salamanca for more dining options, or opt for a relaxed return to your accommodation.

What to Expect: The Experience and Value

Transport & Group Size: The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, making the long day comfortable, and the group size is capped at 16. This smaller size allows for more interaction with the guides, who are consistently praised for their friendliness and expertise. Many reviewers mention their guides by name—Ben, Tim, and Gino—and rave about how personable and knowledgeable they are.

Timing & Duration: Starting at 10:30 am, the tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours. The schedule is well-paced, giving ample time at each stop without feeling rushed. The timing allows for a leisurely exploration and plenty of tasting.

Cost & Value: Priced at around $142 per person, this tour offers good value considering the four vineyard visits, tastings, and cheese platter. Reviewers note the quality of wines and the friendly atmosphere make it worth every penny. One guest summed it up: “Best wine tour ever, with fantastic tastings and an amazing guide.” The price doesn’t include lunch, but this flexibility is often appreciated, letting you find a meal that suits your preferences.

Highlights & Unique Aspects: The tour’s standout elements include the personalized winery visits, meeting winemakers, and the scenic drives through Tasmania’s lush countryside. The wine and chocolate pairing at Craigow Vineyard is a delightful treat, often described as a highlight in reviews.

Potential Drawbacks: Some guests have noted that the bus can be a little cramped, especially during longer drives, and the lunch is not included. However, these are minor considerations compared to the overall quality and authenticity of the experience.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for wine lovers eager to sample Tasmania’s diverse offerings without the hassle of organizing multiple visits. It’s perfect for small groups, offering a personal touch and engaging guides. Foodies will enjoy the pairings and local produce, while those interested in behind-the-scenes winery insights will find the guided tours and meet-the-winemaker opportunities invaluable.

It’s a fantastic choice for first-time visitors wanting an overview of the region’s best wines or return travelers seeking to deepen their understanding of Tasmania’s unique viticulture. If you enjoy delicious wines, scenic drives, and a friendly atmosphere, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 10:30 am and ending in Hobart.

What is included in the price?
The price includes visits to four wineries, tastings of sparkling wines, whites, reds, and a Tasmanian Cheese Platter. It also includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and the wine tasting experiences.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. Guests buy their own meals at Wattlebanks on weekdays or Pooley Wines on Saturdays.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 16 travelers, making it a more intimate experience.

Can I meet the winemakers?
Yes, many of the wineries offer opportunities to meet winemakers and explore barrel rooms.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Brooke Street Pier and ends at La Sardina Loca wine bar in Hobart, with options to explore more dining or return to your hotel.

Are children allowed?
No, guests under 18 are not permitted on the tour.

How do I cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund available if canceled in time.

Final Thoughts

The Tasmanian Premium Wine Tour with Tasmanian Cheese Platter offers a well-balanced mix of wine tastings, scenic drives, and personal interaction. It’s clear from reviews that guests appreciate the knowledgeable guides, the quality of wines, and the relaxed but engaging atmosphere. While the tour doesn’t include lunch and has a few minor space constraints, these are minor compared to the overall value and authentic experience.

If you’re eager to explore Tasmania’s renowned wine regions without the stress of planning, this tour delivers a memorable day with plenty of variety and expert insights. It’s especially suited for those who love good wine, friendly guides, and beautiful vistas.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious novice, this tour promises a delightful taste of Tasmania’s vinicultural charm.