Coal River Valley – click to enlarge
Coal River Valley – click to enlarge
The Coal River Valley is one of Tasmania’s seven unofficial wine regions. It is a narrow valley stretching along the Coal River, bordered by rolling hills and dotted with vineyards, south of the island, just east of the state’s capital, Hobart. It is one of Australia’s premium cool-climate wine regions known for its elegant wines, particularly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Viticulture began in the 1970s as part of Tasmania’s broader wine revival. Early pioneers recognized the cool, dry climate’s potential for producing high-quality wines. Today, the region is home to many boutique wineries, with wines consistently earning national and international acclaim. Renowned producers include Frogmore Creek, Pooley Wines, and Domaine A.
The climate is characterized by long, cool growing seasons with moderate summer temperatures and chilly nights.
The average growing season temperature is around 17°C. It is one of Tasmania’s driest regions, receiving just 500–600 mm of annual rainfall. This low rainfall during the growing season reduces disease risk and allows precise irrigation management. The gentle breeze helps keep the vineyards dry and disease-free, but frost can occasionally be a concern, particularly in early spring.
The regional wines are known for their freshness, balance, and vibrant acidity, hallmarks of Tasmania’s cool climate viticulture.
Coal River Valley is a must-visit for wine lovers. It offers a combination of world-class wines, stunning landscapes, and rich history in Tasmania’s evolving wine story.
