Wines for Joanie

A few years ago viticulturist Andrew O’Shanesy and wife Prue left their Queensland cattle farm in search of something new.

The pair now run a splendid vineyard at Sidmouth. Prue calls the operation “beyond tiny”, but what it lacks in volume is made up in taste. Prue says it’s all about growing the best fruit and keeping the rest very simple: the Joanie NV Sparkling is a like a refreshing hit of sherbet.    

Over winter tastings are by appointment only, so ensure you call ahead. A great place for kids, too: the cattle, sheep and pony will keep them interested while you’re tasting. Visitors are unable to eat here as yet, but there are murmurs of converting the ageing apple packing shed into something along those lines..

To learn more about Wines for Joanie visit www.winesforjoanie.com.au

Sinapius

Sinapius may be the new kid on the block but its growing presence on respected wine lists around the country shows it can play with the big boys. 

Vaughn Dell and Linda Morice bought the operation a decade ago and have modeled it on the famed French wine region of Burgundy, where Linda says low yield and lots of vines per hectare result in intense fruit.

The north, north-east facing blocks just a few kilometers from Bass Strait means the property retains a warmth welcomed by the 20 year-old vines. Linda says Sinapius wine is dry, textural and savory. Which she’s happy to show you at the cellar door, a small cabin at the end of a gravel driveway on Bridport Road.

Perhaps for more serious sippers, you won’t find too many Hen’s parties or Booze Cruises here. A portrait of Linda’s Great Great Great grandmother, Isabella Sinapius proudly adorns a wall and the obligatory vineyard pooch lazes as you are walked informatively through the delicious, very drinkable collection of wine. A great last stop before Barnbougle.

To learn more about Sinapius visit sinapius.com.au

Delamere

Just next door to Sinapius is Delamere, run by the rather talented pair, Shane Holloway and Fran Austin. Past the field of artichoke flowers is the Tuscan-esque cellar door brimming with good booze and company. Tastings are done at a bar smack bang beside the operation, so you’re never far from the action. This wine is reliable and affordable (particularly the Naissante range – try the Fume Blanc) but above all, it’s delicious. If available, the NV sparkling rose is a simple, elegant drop while the Delamere Blanc de Blanc is a little more complex and outstanding with oysters.

To learn more about Delamere visit delamerevineyards.com.au

Goaty Hill

If you’re going to visit one vineyard in the Valley, this should be it. After departing Launceston and driving just 40 minutes on a highway flanked by dairy cows and the rippling Tamar River, you arrive at an expansive vineyard with one hell of a view. Goaty Hill is at the pointy end of the region, sitting pretty on a vast patch at Kayena. 

Goaty’s pinot is earthy and smooth and its Riesling leaves a tingle on your tongue and the want for more. The bloke manning the desk the day we visited was everything you’d hope: chatty, knowledgeable and engaging.  

In summer, soak up the sun on the deck or take a rug for the lawn. In winter, find a seat at the group table and swap stories with fellow visitors. You’re welcome to take your own food but Goaty’s platters are terrific: cold meats, crackers, local cheese, fresh fruit and terrine left us satisfied. Just watch out for the terrier in the car park. 

To learn more about Goaty Hill visit goatyhill.com.au

There are many more vineyards within the Tamar Valley region that are well worth visiting. For a more comprehensive list, maps, opening hours and facilities at more vineyards please visit tamarvalleywineroute.com.au.