Tolpuddle VineyardProducer from Tasmania, Australia

Leading the charge in placing Tasmania on the global fine wine map, Tolpuddle Vineyards is a renowned winery located in the heart of the Coal River Valley. Situated on the southeastern part of Tasmania, this region is known for producing exceptional cool-climate wines, especially Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Tasmania, being an island off the southeast side of Australia, offers a unique micro-climate that is more in line with regions of Europe, such as Burgundy, than a typical hot Australian climate. Thanks to the cooling influences of the ocean, Tasmania is able to cultivate cool-climate grape varieties that produce phenomenal wines.

"Clarity, precision and focus that matches up to any top Grand Cru Burgundy. Not for the faint of heart but the fearless." - James Suckling

The team behind Tolpuddle:

In 2011, cousins and business partners Michael Hill Smith MW and Martin Shaw from Shaw + Smith Wines found themselves on a mission to explore Tasmania. Little did they know that their unassuming exploration would lead to them acquiring Tolpuddle Vineyard, one of the finest wineries in Australia. Despite not being up for sale, the duo was entranced by the vineyard's potential for producing exquisite Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Located in the scenic Coal River Valley, around 20km northeast of Hobart, Tolpuddle Vineyard was already making waves in Tasmania's wine industry. However, Hill Smith and Shaw saw an opportunity to take the vineyard to greater heights. With their expertise and passion, they set out to transform Tolpuddle Vineyard into a world-class winery.

Today, Tolpuddle Vineyard continues to produce outstanding Chardonnay and Pinot Noir under the skillful guidance of Hill Smith and Shaw. Their success story is a testimony to their love for fine wine and a reminder that sometimes, the best opportunities are those that come unexpectedly.

Tolpuddle Chardonnay:

Exquisite and elegant, Tolpuddle Chardonnay showcases the exceptional quality of Tasmania's cool climate vineyards. Like great Burgundy, the grapes are handpicked, fermented and matured in French oak Barrels for 10 months with gentle batonnage. With meticulous attention to detail, this wine captivates with its vibrant citrus notes, beautifully integrated oak, and precisely balanced acidity that lingers on the palate. A savory edge allows the minerality to shine whilst the energy of the wine keeps the tension. Its refined complexity and graceful texture make it a true standout not just in Australian white wines, but also compared to its peers in Burgundy. With a consistent climate in Tasmania, the wine has had a stream of successful vintages scoring 98 or 99 points.

Tolpuddle Pinot Noir:

This wine impresses with its alluring aromas of red berries, violets, and subtle spices. Delicately textured, it reveals layers of red fruit flavors, meshed with well-integrated tannins and a vibrant acidity. With its harmonious balance and lingering finish, Tolpuddle Pinot Noir is a true testament to its exceptional terroir. It’s alluring, enticing you back to keep reading its complexity. Like the Chardonnay, the scores have been consistently high with 98 and 99's points each vintage.