Spring has Sprung

Spring is here and I am so excited to hear the birds chirping in the morning and have the daylight hours extending. It has also made me think of all of the wonderful people and places I have visited over the past year, I thought I'd celebrate this with the main picture of this email being a collage of images captured this year - I hope you like it.

A very busy month was had in the lead up to spring. Father's Day proved to be a hit and I'm hoping lots of dads were surprised and happy with the hampers they received on their special day.

Spring brings many great events and festivals to Launceston. Last week was the annual Junction Arts Festival and I had a fantastic time viewing live music, comedy and different forms of art. A highlight for me was the JAF Dog Show! It was a real hoot and my dog Banjo was incredibly excited to attend. Last night I attended the Spring into Cider event at the Dickens Cidershouse and once again sampled high quality Tasmanian Cider from Dickens, Pagan, FRANK'S and Willie Smiths - a great event which reminded me of the quality cider Tasmanian is producing. Many of these ciders are available on the website, here is the link to FRANK'S Summer Apple http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/shop-online/franks-apple-cider/

Tas Mud Run @ Van Dieman Brewing

Another fantastic event this month is the Tas Mud Run - a 5km obstacle course held at Van Dieman Brewing through the mud. All entries earn themeselves a beer on completion of the course - reason enough the enter the event! This is one of those rare opportunities to visit the brewery so for that reason we decided to feature them for another month.

Introducing Will Tatchell

Will Tatchell is the man behind the brewing; learning his craft in the UK he now brings that experience and knowledge to Van Dieman Brewing. Will prides himself on producing high quality craft beer. He sources first-rate ingredients; in most cases grown and sourced from within Tasmania. This together with his passion and dedication ensures he brews supremely good real craft beer.

Van Dieman Brewing have four signature brews all of which take their names from local Tasmanian sites;

• Stacks Bluff oatmeal stout
• Jacobs Ladder amber ale
• Ragged Jack pale ale
• White Hills wheat malt

September feature: Van Dieman Brewing Dubbel shot – Belgian Coffee Dubbel 500ml 6.6%

 
A Belgian Abbey Dubbel infused with cold drip coffee from local roasters, Ritual Coffee. The cold drip avoids the charred bitterness normally associated with coffee additions in beers, resulting in a beautifully sweet and rich hazelnut coffee aroma, along with Belgian chocolate and bready malt character. These blend seamlessly into a complex palate, expectant of a Dubbel style, filled with raisins, spices, dark fruit and creamy malt sweetness.
 
The mash up series is a collection of collaborative brews with local Tasmanian primary produces. A mash up can best be described as a composition created by blending two or more products, usually one seamlessly over another, to the extent that such works are ‘transformative’ of original content.

Buy now http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/shop-online/van-dieman-brewing-dubbel-shot/

Uniquely Tasmanian Van Dieman Brewing Hamper

Contents of this hamper include:

2 x Van Dieman Brewing Dubbel Shot 500ml 6.6%
1 x fudge a fare milk chocolate fudge 40 gram
1 x Hill Farm Dijon Mustard 180 gram
1x Hill Farm Tomato Relish 250 gram
1 x Tasmanian Honey Company Meadow Honey 350 gram

In your hamper you will also receive a recipe for Sticky beef ribs which perfectly matches the flavours of the Van Dieman Dubbel Shot. A glass of Van Dieman Dubbel Shot also goes down well with the milk chocolate fudge

Buy now http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/shop-online/van-dieman-dubbel-shot-hamper/

Driving along the Tamar Valley Wine Route

A Uniquely Tasmanian Sunday drive along the Tamar Valley Wine Route 

Our first stop on our Sunday drive was just outside of Legana at Velo Wines. Velo has recently undergone a transformation and now has a magnificent cafe serving breakfast and lunch daily. Velo was purchased by Micheal and Mary Wilson in 2001. Velo is the French word for bike which reflects Micheal’s passion for cycling, he is a former Olympian and International Cyclist. The historic vineyard had its first vines planted in 1966 by Graham Wiltshire. At Velo, handpicked fruit is nurtured from vine to bottle, producing outstanding, handcrafted wines. The wines are carefully selected from classic French varieties that particularly suit the cool Tasmanian climates. Hand picking, hand plunging and gentle basket pressing reflect in the character of the wines. The beautiful new Cellar Door and Barrel Room Cafe is a wonderful place to visit. The cafe is surrounded by a stunning deck where you can enjoy a glass of wine and a delicious wood-fired pizza. We absolutely loved the Velo Pinot Gris. To find out more about Velo wines visit http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/velo-wines/

Velo Wines Pinot Gris

An aromatic straw coloured wine shot with an exciting touch of pink that was acquired pre-ferment from a short time spent in contact with the skins. White peach and pear elegant minerality and a crisp and refreshing finish with lime nuances.

Best other White Wine at 2013 Festivale.

Silver Medal at the 2013 Tasmanian Wine Show

You can purchase this wine at http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/shop-online/velo-2011-pinot-gris/

After having a delicous lunch we decided to contiue our lovely drive along the Tamar River and found ourselves at Goaty Hill Wines. Situated at Kayena, Goaty Hill Wines is located in the famous Tamar Valley which is approximately a 35 to 40 minute drive from Launceston. Goaty Hill Wines is an award winning producer of magnificent Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Sparkling and Sauvignon Blanc.

The first vines were planted at Goaty Hill in 1998. The vineyard and is owned by two families; Natasha, Kristine, Markus and Tony.

The vineyard is open daily from August to May. The cellar door is surrounded by an outdoor entertainment area with the Tamar Valley providing a perfect backdrop for guests to sit back and relax and enjoy a glass of award winning wine. Wine is always best when enjoyed with food and the cellar door serves tasty cheese and gourmet platters made from local produce. To find out more about Goaty Hill Wines visit http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/goaty-hill-wines/

Goaty Hill Wines 2012 Riesling

Pale straw in colourLime, green apple and slate aromas with hints of honey.
Elegant, crisp lime, grapefruit and green apple flavours. 
A precise palate, with lively mineral acidity and good texture; very long, bright and pure.
An excellent food match with smoked cheese, blue cheese, seafood, spicy dishes and Thai cuisine
2012 best Riesling at 2013 Festivale. 
You can purchase this wine at http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/shop-online/goaty-hill-riesling/

Take a virtual tour of Goaty Hill Wines

Take a virtual tour of Velo Wines

Visit to Van Dieman Brewing

Van Dieman Brewing is located just outside the historical Tasmanian town of Evandale, just a short drive from Launceston. When arriving at the farming property you are greeted by century old English oak trees which guide you towards the microbrewery where more magnificent English oaks stand guard over the beer making operation.

Will Tatchell is the man behind the brewing; learning his craft in the UK he now brings this experience and knowledge to Van Dieman Brewing. Will prides himself on producing high quality craft beer. He sources first-rate ingredients; in most cases grown and sourced from within Tasmania. This together with his passion and dedication ensures he brews supremely good real craft beer.
All of the Van Dieman Brewing ales are brewed without using any additives or preservatives and use water sourced from natural springs on the farm.
Van Dieman Brewing have four signature brews all of which take their names from local Tasmanian sites;

• Stacks Bluff oatmeal stout
• Jacobs Ladder amber ale
• Ragged Jack pale ale
• White Hills white ale

Van Dieman Dubbel Shot - Belgian coffee Dubbel 500ml 6.6% 

A Belgian Abbey Dubbel infused with cold drip coffee from local roasters, Ritual Coffee. The cold drip avoids the charred bitterness normally associated with coffee additions in beers, resulting in a beautifully sweet and rich hazelnut coffee aroma, along with Belgian chocolate and bready malt character. These blend seamlessly into a complex palate, expectant of a Dubbel style, filled with raisins, spices, dark fruit and creamy malt sweetness.
The mash up series is a collection of collaborative brews with local Tasmanian primary produces. A mash up can best be described as a composition created by blending two or more products, usually one seamlessly over another, to the extent that such works are ‘transformative’ of original content.
Click here to purchase a Dubbel shot http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/shop-online/van-dieman-brewing-dubbel-shot/

 Van Dieman Brewing Dubbel Shot hamper

 Contents of this hamper include:
2 x Van Dieman Brewing Dubbel Shot 500ml 6.6%
1 x fudge ‘a’ fare milk chocolate fudge 40 gram
1 x Hill Farm Dijon Mustard 180 gram
1x Hill Farm Tomato Relish 250 gram
1 x Tasmanian Honey Company Meadow Honey 350 gram
In your hamper you will also receive a recipe for Sticky beef ribs which perfectly matches the flavours of the Dubbel Shot. Finish your meal off with another glass of Dubbel Shot and the milk chocolate fudge.
Click here to purchase a hamper http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/shop-online/van-dieman-dubbel-shot-hamper/

William McHenry and Sons Distillery

A 90 minute drive from Hobart will take you to many fascinating and wonderful unique locations in Tasmania. The Tasman Peninsula is world renowned as being the gate way to the mesmerising Port Arthur; however there are many hidden gems along the way for the passing traveller. One of these gems is the William McHenry and Sons Distillery which specialises in producing hand-made single malt whisky. The William McHenry and Sons Distillery is part of a small band of Tasmanian whisky distilleries that are gaining a worldwide reputation for producing premium spirits. The distillery is nestled on the side of Mt Arthur and overlooks the stunning Port Arthur site. This site has some of the cleanest air and water in the world and this purity helps transform the rich malty whiskies into something exceptional. Situated at 43° south the cool and temperate maritime climate means the spirits have time to mature slowly and retain their essential flavours. This slow maturation process resembles the conditions found in Scotland – the heart of whisky making.

The William McHenry & Sons Distillery currently produces four different products including;

• Three Capes – 10 year old single malt whisky
• Puer Vodka – a triple distilled Vodka
• McHenry Classic Dry Gin – a double distilled London Gin
• Sloe Gin – using sloe Blackthorn berries sourced from the hedge rows around the Tasmania’s north

I made a short Clip with William - click here to have a virtual tour of the distillery 

We decided to feature the Three Capes single malt whisky. The Three Capes ‘Signature’ brand is bottled by William McHenry & Sons from a carefully selected barrel from the Tasmania Distillery and cut back using the crystal clear spring water from the Distillery. This whisky is aged in American Oak Bourbon barrels with a guaranteed minimum age of 10 years. Some bottlings in the this range could be up to 14 years old. Click here to find out more http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/william-mchenry-and-sons/ 

Uniquely Tasmanian takes on the Tasmanian cider trail

The emergence of the Tasmanian Cider scene is well documented and written about. Having lived in London for a while I had already been lucky enough to sample many English ciders along with a lot of other European varieties. On returning to Australia I was always looking for great Tasmanian ciders to try and it didn't take me long to find many different varieties to sample. I discovered quite a few awesome Tasmanian ciders at the Tasmanian Beerfest in 2012 and was very keen to sample more of them and find out the stories behind them

Dickens Ciderhouse 

In December last year I featured Dickens Cider and gave people a ‘virtual tour’ of the new Ciderhouse which is located in Launceston. Click the link to view the clip I made with John http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/dickens-sparkling-cider/ Dickens Cider is based in Hillwood which is about a 25 minutes drive out of Launceston. John Dickens – the man behind the cider wanted to open a cellar door but felt that Hillwood wasn’t the place and that’s how the Ciderhouse idea emerged. Open everyday of the week the Ciderhouse is a fine place to enjoy a cider or two on the way to the theatre or just a lovely place to meet friends and relax. Dickens Cider produces five different cider varieties; Sparkling apple, Sparking perry, Cider rose’, Scrumpy and old English cider. All of the ciders are on tap at the Ciderhouse and just like a cellar door you can have tastings when you visit. Uniquely Tasmanian stocks the Sparking apple – click here to view tasting notes and find our more about it http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/shop-online/dickens-sparkling-cider/

Following along with the fantastic festivals Tasmanian has to celebrate summer I was fortunate enough to attend the Tamar Valley Beerfest in Launceston. It was here that I was lucky enough the meet Naomie Port-Clark from FRANK’S cider. Naomie’s Great Grandfather was Frank Clark who was the third of six generations of the Clark family to grow apples and pears at Woodside orchard in the South of Tasmanian at Franklin. Naomie decided to look for a different way of using the fruit from the orchard and that’s where FRANK’S apple and pear cider was born. I had the opportunity to travel to Franklin and have a tour of the orchard to take a virtual tour yourself click here http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/franklin-cider-company/ We also now have FRANK’S Sparking apple and pear cider available online click here to find out more http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/shop-online/franks-pear-cider/

http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/shop-online/franks-apple-cider/

There are a number of other great cider makers in Tasmania and over the coming months be sure to follow our progress as we feature more of them. We also have the Two Metre Tall Company’s Dry Apple cider and the Poire available online. To find out more about these equally as amazing ciders click here

http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/shop-online/dry-apple/ 

http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/shop-online/pear/

Jinglers Creek Vineyard

This month we take another tour of Tasmania and visit Jinglers Creek Vineyard. I visited Jane and Mat Usher who recently purchased the vineyard and made a short video about their experience of taking over the vineyard, click here to watch the clip http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/jinglers-creek-vineyard/ Jane and Mat are passionate about re-establishing the vineyard into the Tasmanian wine industry. The Jinglers Creek brand is also being redefined and is currently in the process of having the label redesigned which will be launched along with new vintages this summer.

The vineyard is located at the southern end of the Tamar Valley Wine Route at Relbia and is only a 10 minute drive from the Launceston CBD. The view from the cellar door of the north esk river valley and the mountain ranges surrounding northern Tasmania is stunning. This along with the sounds of the country makes a perfect backdrop for enjoying a glass of Tasmanian wine.
The cellar door is open on weekends from 12-5pm and by appointment. On arrival at Jinglers Creek you are greeted by the furry half of the Usher family Ellie and Ziggy who are happy to escort you to the cellar door in between their many adventures exploring the vineyard.

Jinglers Creek produce Riesling, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. For the month of July we are featuring the Jinglers Creek Pinot.

Jinglers Creek Pinot Noir tasting notes

This Pinot Noir may surprise you. The initial sweet mid-cherry fruit flavours in the bouquet have developed a more savoury angle with hints of leather. The palate is medium bodied and shows the same flavours on the palate that were enjoyed in the bouquet. A lovely style that packs a subtle, yet elegant punch of flavours. A Pinot that will appeal to even the most dedicated Shiraz or Cabernet drinker. This Tasmanian Pinot Noir was awarded a Bronze Medal at the 2010 International Cool Climate wine show.

To purchase the Jinglers Creek Pinot Noir click on the link http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/shop-online/jinglers-creek-pinot-noir/

Jinglers Creek Hamper

Contents of this hamper include:
1 x Jinglers Creek Vineyard 2008 Pinot Noir
1 x Hill Farm Dijon mustard 180 gram
1 x Pyengana cheese traditional cheddar
1 x Native spices 4×1 Pepperberry sachet
1 x fudge a fare milk fudge 80 gram



In your hamper you will also receive a recipe for a Tasmanian Pepperberry filet mignon with a wine and mushroom sauce. While cooking this
magnificent recipe enjoy a slice of mature cheddar and a glass of Jinglers Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir.

To purchase the Jinglers Creek Hamper click on the link http://uniquelytasmanian.com.au/shop-online/jinglers-creek-june-hamper/

Bream Creek Vineyard

In November I had the pleasure of travelling to one of Tasmania's most iconic vineyards. Bream Creek Vineyard is located at Marions Bay and overlooks the stunning Maria Island and is about a 50 minute drive from Hobart.

Uniquely Tasmanian’s November featured product of the month

2010 Bream Creek Late Picked Schonburger

Tasting Note
This late picked version of the highly aromatic Schönburger is Bream Creek’s
unique contribution to the wine world.
Fabulous array of aromas including honeysuckle, apricot and mandarin peel.
While the palate is lusciously sweet and rich, the finish is still fresh with good
acidity.
A true dessert wine.
Alc/Vol 9.0%

Awards

2010
Silver Medal Class 16 2012 Tasmanian Wine Show
Bronze Medal Class 16 2011 Tasmanian Wine Show
Bronze Medal Class 510 2011 National Cool Climate Wine Show