5. Launceston: Beyond the Barrel Private Wine and Whisky Tour
Welcome to the rolling hills of the Piper’s Brook region. Here in ‘Sparkling Tasmania’, a glass of bubbles before noon isn’t just acceptable – it’s highly recommended. Our first stop today is Clover Hill. One of Tasmania’s most celebrated sparkling producers. From grape to glass, Clover Hill’s sparkling is equal parts uncompromising quality and refined elegance. You’ll learn the philosophy that defines this prestigious label on an intimate vineyard tour, before retreating to the award-winning cellar door for a masterclass and guided tasting of their entire portfolio. Paired with a seasonal, small plate offering, this truly is a premier tasting experience.
A short drive through some of Tasmania’s picturesque back roads take us to Sinapius, a quaint vineyard with four hectares of sun-drenched vines. Sinapius has been loved and nurtured by Tasmanian couple Linda and Vaughn, who chose to follow a simple, hands-on winemaking and vineyard philosophy. After the sudden passing of Vaughn in 2020, Linda, their daughters and the close knit Sinapius family have continued to produce some of Tasmania’s most recognised wines as his legacy. In their gorgeous, leafy cellar door, the team invites you to enjoy an intimate tasting of their expressive portfolio.
The salty sea air draws us to the coast for our final stop of the day. Here in the tiny, windswept town of Tam O’Shanter, we will introduce you to Tasmanian whisky at its finest. Welcome to the simple splendour of Fanny’s Bay Distillery. Hear firsthand the story of how Mathew and Julie Cooper went from retired couple to award winning whisky producers. Their ‘liquid gold’ is now exported to high end restaurants and exclusive resorts across the world. Experience it for yourself, during a laid-back tasting (with complementary Tasmanian dark chocolate) in this humble seaside distillery. The perfect way to conclude our tasting trail, before we return, full of good spirits, to Launceston.