Tasmania's East Coast is known for the Great Eastern Drive, a road trip that guides visitors through a premier wine-growing region celebrated for its cool climate varieties. The mild climate of the region fosters optimal growing conditions for fruits, cheeses, and seafood, providing a rich experience for food and wine enthusiasts. Notable vineyards along the East Coast include Mayfield Estate, Devil's Corner Cellar Door & Lookout, Boomer Creek Vineyard, Darlington Vineyard, Iron House Vineyard, Freycinet Vineyard, Craigie Knowe Vineyard, Gala Estate, Priory Ridge Wines, and Spring Vale Vineyards. Each vineyard offers distinct experiences and the chance to sample locally crafted wines amidst Tasmania's picturesque landscapes.
Tasmania is renowned for its cool climate wines, particularly Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris/Grigio. The cool climate enables the production of elegant and complex wine styles with high natural acidity, suitable for both still and sparkling wine production. Other varietals that flourish in Tasmania's cool climate include Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and crisp Pinot Gris. The unique climate of Tasmania, characterized by lower temperatures, higher humidity, and frequent spring frosts, poses challenges but also contributes to the uniqueness of its wines. Furthermore, the region's diverse soil types, from sandstone and schist in the Derwent Valley to peaty alluvial and sandy low humus soils in the Coal River Valley, add to the range of flavors found in Tasmanian wines.