The start of vintage in Tasmania has come with a request for landholders to work with nearby vineyards when it comes to burning off because of the potential for damaging smoke.
“With vineyards entering the most sensitive period of the season, Wine Tasmania is reminding landholders to work with nearby vineyards if and when planning burns,” says Paul Smart, Wine Tasmania Viticulture & Winemaking officer.
“Vineyards are particularly susceptible to smoke exposure at this time of year.
“We’re simply asking people to have a quick proactive conversation with nearby vineyards before lighting a fire.
“Sometimes there may be limited risk based on weather conditions and the stage of harvest.
“Sometimes a short postponement may be all that’s needed to avoid potential damage.”
Wine Tasmania continues to work closely with the Tasmania Fire Service, Sustainable Timber Tasmania and the Parks & Wildlife Service to balance community safety with protecting vineyards.
Further information on wine grapes and smoke is available here.
“We invite Tasmanians to celebrate with the hardworking growers and makers around the island at this exciting time of the season,” Smart says.
“Whether choosing a Tasmanian drop, signing up to help pick grapes at your local vineyard or being understanding of a little late-night activity during harvest, we’re looking forward to another vintage to remember in 2026.”
The 2025/26 growing season in Tasmania has been anything but predictable.
“It’s been a rather unusual season here in Tasmania,” Smart says.
“A very cool spring was followed by a mild summer and little rainfall, which means conditions have been dry, and grapes have ripened more slowly than usual.”
The first grapes to be harvested are those destined for sparkling wine, with harvesting activity likely to continue through to late May and potentially June for later styles and varieties.
“A slower season like this can be a good thing when it comes to flavour development in our wines,” Smart says.
“While yields are expected to be down around 30 percent compared with last year’s record high production, we’re anticipating excellent quality and plenty of fruit intensity.
“Tasmania’s unique climate never gets truly hot.
“We are an island located a long way south, and our latitude and the surrounding water leads to long seasons and intense flavours in our wines.”
Photo: Stock image from Stefano Lubiana. Credit: Martin Turmine and Wine Tasmania.
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