Rather than trying to compete with mainland Australian regions which can produce very ripe styles it concentrates on making the most of its long, slow ripening period. It has been able to produce Chardonnays of great elegance, fine-boned Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon in a medium bodied style and has had some success with Pinot Noir, a notoriously difficult variety in Australia. Other varieties to show promise include Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Gewurztraminer and Merlot. Pinot Gris is a possible star of the future. Tasmania is the one area in Australia where Shiraz does not shine.
Wines tend to be sold as varietals.
There is no room for commercial, generic style blends. Being early ripening varieties, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir have proven successful for sparkling wine production. All rights reserved.