East Coast – click to enlarge

East Coast – click to enlarge

The East Coast wine region is one of Tasmania’s seven unofficial wine regions. It is a stunning stretch of coastline on the eastern side of the island state of Tasmania, Australia. The wine region extends from the towns of Bicheno and Swansea in the north, to Orford in the south. It is characterized by its proximity to the Tasman Sea, which significantly shapes the region’s climate and viticulture.

The region has a cool maritime climate with long, sunny days and consistent Tasman Sea breezes. Mild temperatures throughout the growing season with cool nights contribute to slow grape ripening and complex flavour development. Low rainfall, compared to other parts of Tasmania, reduces disease risk and allows for better irrigation control. The climate produces elegant, balanced wines with vibrant acidity, making it ideal for growing cool-climate grape varieties.

Wine production in Tasmania has a rich history. The first vineyard in Tasmania was established on Maria Island in the late 19th century, but it wasn’t until the 1950s that the industry began to flourish. Since then, the East Coast has become one of Tasmania’s premier wine regions, known for its high-quality wines and unique terroir. Notable wineries like Freycinet Vineyard (established in 1980) were among the first to prove the potential of the East Coast as a world-class wine region.

The East Coast is part of the Great Eastern Drive, one of Australia’s most scenic road trips. Alongside the fabulous wines, you will find breathtaking views and gourmet food experiences.

Pinot Noir, like all regions in Tasmania, is a standout. It is renowned for its elegance, purity, and expression of cool-climate characteristics. The region’s unique terroir and climate create complex and approachable wines. It has aromas of red berries like cherry, raspberry, and strawberry and earthy undertones, with hints of spice and forest floor. Bright, fresh red fruit flavours are balanced by vibrant acidity, silky tannins, and a smooth, elegant texture.

The majority of the other top varietals on the island are white varieties.

The top white varietal in the region is Chardonnay. It is elegant and refined, showcasing vibrant citrus and stone fruit flavours balanced by crisp acidity and a subtle minerality. The cool maritime climate and abundant sunshine create wines with complexity, finesse, and excellent ageing potential. Styles range from fresh and unoaked to richer, barrel-fermented expressions, often compared to premium cool-climate Chardonnays from Burgundy.

Sauvignon Blanc is fresh and aromatic, with vibrant tropical fruit notes like passionfruit, guava, and citrus, complemented by herbaceous hints of cut grass and green capsicum. The cool maritime climate preserves crisp acidity, giving the wine a zesty, refreshing character. Its bright, fruit-forward style often includes a subtle minerality influenced by the coastal terroir.

Riesling is a cool-climate wine known for its vibrant acidity, aromatic complexity, and longevity. It has crisp citrus and stone fruit flavours, a touch of minerality, and a clean finish. It is typically dry or off-dry, with excellent balance and ageing potential, developing honeyed and toasty notes over time.

East Coast Tasmania Pinot Gris offers a bright, fresh style with cool-climate elegance. Its aromas are of pear, apple, and citrus with hints of honeysuckle and spice. Its flavours are juicy stone fruit like peach and nectarine, balanced by crisp acidity and a subtle creamy texture. It is medium-bodied with a vibrant, refreshing finish. Styles can range from dry to slightly off-dry.

Source:  www.wineaustralia.com,