Action stations in Tasmanian vineyards

Just a few days away from the Tasmanian Open Vineyards weekend, the 2025 wine grape harvest has officially commenced on the island state.

The first grapes - to be used for making sparkling wines - are being harvested over the coming weeks, with grape picking continuing through March and April as different grape varieties and different vineyards around the island reach optimal ripening.

Some shiraz will not be picked until May as the Apple Isle vintage stretches over four months.

Wine Tasmania Viticulture and Winemaking Officer Paul Smart said the 2024-25 seasonal conditions, while varying, have generally been good.

“Temperatures have been slightly above average across the season however Tasmania’s temperature has been moderated due to our maritime and southerly-influenced climate, and rainfall has come when needed,” he said.

“As a result of a slightly warmer season, harvesting has commenced just a little earlier in 2025, with preliminary reports from wine producers indicating that quality is very high and yields are looking to be above average.

"There have been some challenges throughout the season, including localised frost and hail events, and our hard-working viticulturists have been tirelessly and constantly managing their vineyards to achieve the best possible quality.”

With grape harvesting to continue for many weeks to come, Wine Tasmania has issued another reminder of the risk that smoke poses to vineyards.

“Vineyards are particularly susceptible to smoke exposure, which can be devastating for wine producers, particularly at this crucial harvest time. Wine Tasmania encourages anyone planning to light a fire on their property in the weeks ahead to consider and consult with nearby wine producers before igniting their burn to ensure they don't inadvertently cause any damage. A short postponement may be all that is needed to prevent irreparable damage.

"While some smoke from the bushfires on the west coast has travelled across the state, there is not currently believed to have been any direct impact on vineyards. We greatly appreciate the efforts of the many people who are battling these bushfires. The Tasmanian wine sector also values its ongoing engagement with the Tasmania Fire Service, Sustainable Timber Tasmania and Parks & Wildlife Service, to prioritise community safety while managing risks posed to vineyards.”

Further information on wine grapes and smoke is available at winetasmania.com.au/smokeandvineyards.

Meanwhile, 15th anniversary celebrations at boutique sparkling wine producer Henskens Rankin of Tasmania will be among the highlights of the the Southern Open Vineyards Weekend.

The event runs from Friday, February 28 to Sunday, March 2 from 11am to 4pm daily.

The Henskens Rankin winery is at unit 4/ 14-20 Louisa St, Ranelagh and will be offering a Sparkling Wine and Oyster Bar with the Tasmanian Oyster Company, free tastings of current and pre-release vintages and cheese platters on sale by Bruny Island Cheese Company. 

Full details of the weekend's events: https://www.gourmetontheroad.com/2024/12/tasmanian-vineyards-to-throw-open-their.html