The cleanest air and water on the planet, varied landscapes and four distinct seasons all contribute towards Tasmania’s bountiful supply of produce. Its rich volcanic soils are perfect for growing premium fruit, the cooler climate produces elegant dry wines and the unspoiled coastline ensures the freshest seafood around. When foodies talk of Tasmania, they have nothing but praise for its fish and seafood, cheeses, wines, oils, truffles, game, smallgoods, organic fruits and vegetables. No wonder Tasmania has such a highly sophisticated local food and wine culture.
Beverages
Tasmania’s naturally elegant wines are made from grapes grown in climates similar to much-celebrated European wine regions – with mild summers and long autumn days that slowly ripen the grapes, providing elegance and intensity of flavour. Tasmania’s boutique yet burgeoning wine industry boasts seven distinct wine growing regions. All are within easy reach of major centres or are located en route to some of Tasmania’s iconic attractions.
Tasmania is home to two mainstream beer breweries – Cascade, in Hobart, and Boag’s in Launceston – as well as a host of micro-breweries who create some of Australia’s finest beers, ciders and spirit. There is an annual Beer Lovers Week held at various bars and venues throughout Hobart which concludes with Beerfest held in Salamanca, Hobart. The Tamar Valley Beer Festival is held each year in Launceston.
The range of Tasmania’s regional fare is extensive – wasabi, gourmet sauces, handmade chocolates and fudge, sauces, jams, condiments, honeys, herbs, seafood, wines, cheeses, liqueurs, ciders, beers and whiskies.
You can meet the producers and sample their wares at Salamanca Market in Hobart any Saturday, visit one of the specialist delicatessens across Tasmania or take a drive out to a farm or factory where they are produced.
The bountiful supplies of Tasmanian fruit are renowned for their delicious flavour, the island’s temperate maritime climate provides a diversity of produce to be harvested from early summer to late autumn.
Locals and visitors alike can source the freshest fine produce direct from the grower, from bags of apples to cherries, apricots, berries, seasonal stonefruit, cheeses, olives, meats, wines, jams, pickles and liqueurs.
