Bird in Hand is delighted to announce its long-term lease acquisition of a 10.1-hectare vineyard located in the West Tamar region of Tasmania. The strategic move marks a significant step forward for the winery as it continues to deepen its roots in Tasmania’s renowned cool climate wine-growing areas, alongside its established connections with Adelaide Hills across the Strait.
The new property, situated on Waterton Hall Road in Rowella, offers an expanse of land under vine, featuring a diverse array of grape varieties including Shiraz, Riesling, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The Syrah plantings at the vineyard are some of the oldest in Tasmania, with two of the existing clones among Bird in Hand’s preferred choices for the premium production of standalone Syrah.
Of the other established plantings, four different Pinot Noir clones will be used for traditional vintages alongside blends in Bird in Hand’s popular Sparkling, ‘O’ Sparkling and Joy Sparkling varieties. The old-vine Riesling on site will provide complex blending possibilities while the Chardonnay grapes will form the backbone of the premium sparkling wine program alongside exceptional still Chardonnay. In the coming months, Bird in Hand plans to release its first standalone Tasmanian wines.
Located in a rich agricultural region, the vineyard benefits from flat to undulating terrain and reliable rainfall, providing an ideal setting to craft premium wines. Situated in the north of the island at a latitude of around 42°S, West Tamar Valley is among Tasmania’s oldest sub-regions.
Extending until 2034, the lease forms part of Bird in Hand’s mission to expand its presence in Tasmania and solidify its position as a leading producer of cool-climate Australian wine. Following the success of Bird in Hand’s 2021 vineyard development in Seymour, eastern Tasmania, the business has increased its capacity to create exceptional wines reflecting the region’s world-renowned viniculture characteristics. The move into Rowella strengthens these endeavours.
“With its collection of established vine plantings, the West Tamar vineyard in Rowella infuses us with energy and excitement,” says Andrew Nugent, co-founder of Bird in Hand. “Under the guidance of our winemaker Sarah Burvill and wine consultant Sam Harrop MW, Bird in Hand is well-positioned to build upon ongoing efforts to craft beautiful Australian wines reflecting the cool climates of Tasmania and our Woodside estate in Adelaide Hills.”
The produce potential of Tasmania extends beyond grapes for Bird in Hand, with the winery sourcing world-class ingredients from the state for its landmark LVN Restaurant in Adelaide Hills. Led by executive chef Jacob Davey, the dining room currently serves Tasmanian wasabi with its shellfish course, wild shot Flinders Island Wallaby, and Tasmanian saffron among its dessert offerings – a culinary focus that will only grow over time as the business further establishes itself in the region.
Key features of the Rowella vineyard include its desirable location in the Tamar Valley wine region, proximity to the scenic Tamar River and unique soil composition derived from tertiary sands and clays. With a history of sustainable operations, Bird in Hand plans to continue winemaking in Rowella with the environment at the forefront of its craft. This pledge is joined by a steadfast dedication to working closely with Indigenous communities, whose connection to the land extends tens of thousands of years.
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