Heemskerk

Heemskerk sits at White Hills, roughly 20 to 30 minutes from Hobart, where Tasmania's cool climate and volcanic soils do much of the winemaking work before a grape even reaches the press. Located at 660 Blessington Road, the vineyard is a straightforward drive from the capital and makes a rewarding addition to any Tasmanian wine itinerary.

The Wines

Heemskerk's focus sits firmly in cool-climate territory, with Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay as the headline varieties. The combination of White Hills' elevation, long growing season, and cool nights produces wines with pronounced natural acidity and concentrated flavour — characteristics that define quality Tasmanian viticulture. The volcanic soils add a mineral edge that tends to show particularly well in the white wines. Riesling is well worth seeking out here, given the variety's affinity for this type of terrain.

Cellar Door Experience

The cellar door is set within the vineyard itself, with views across the property that give you a genuine sense of where the wines come from. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal — there's no polished resort feel here, just a working winery environment where the focus is on the wines in the glass.

Tastings cover Heemskerk's portfolio with an emphasis on their signature cool-climate varieties. Tasting fees and the exact number of wines poured weren't confirmed at time of writing, so it's worth contacting the winery directly before your visit. Bookings are recommended, particularly if you're visiting as a group.

Food and Dining

There's no restaurant on-site, but the property is well suited to a picnic. Bringing your own food to enjoy alongside a tasting — or a bottle purchased at the cellar door — with vineyard views is a perfectly reasonable way to spend an afternoon. Pack accordingly.

Getting There

White Hills is accessible via Blessington Road and sits within easy reach of Hobart. The rural road is manageable for caravans and campervans under normal conditions. There's on-site parking available, though if you're arriving with a large group or a coach, it's worth calling ahead to confirm arrangements. No public transport serves the vineyard directly, so you'll need your own vehicle.

Visitor Tips

• Book ahead if visiting with a group
• Bring a picnic — the vineyard setting lends itself to a longer, more leisurely stop
• Allow an hour or two for tasting and a look around the property
• Dress in layers — even in summer, Tasmania's wine country can turn cool, particularly at elevation
• Combine with nearby cellar doors to make the most of a day in the region
• Timing matters — vintage runs through March and April if you'd like to see the winery in full activity; summer offers the warmest and longest days for a visit