Holm Oak Vineyards

Holm Oak Vineyards has been a steady presence in Tasmania's Tamar Valley since 1983, making it one of the longer-established wineries in a region that has become synonymous with cool-climate winemaking. Set in Rowella, north of Launceston, the property sits within a landscape shaped by maritime influences and the kind of cool, measured growing conditions that suit varieties requiring patience and precision.

The Wines

Three varieties define the Holm Oak portfolio: pinot noir, riesling, and arneis. The first two are natural fits for the Tamar Valley's cool climate — pinot noir benefits from the slow ripening that builds complexity without sacrificing elegance, while riesling thrives in conditions that preserve acidity and aromatic lift. The inclusion of arneis, a white variety with northern Italian origins, adds an interesting point of difference to the lineup and is worth seeking out if you're unfamiliar with it.

When you visit the cellar door, ask staff about current release wines — cool-climate wines like these can vary notably from vintage to vintage, and the team will be well placed to guide you toward what's drinking well at the time of your visit.

Cellar Door Experience

The cellar door at Rowella offers tastings in a relaxed setting, with guided vineyard tours also available for those who want to go a step further. Tours typically include a walk through the vines alongside a tasting of current releases, giving you a sense of how the vineyard environment translates into what ends up in the glass. Group bookings are accepted, making it a practical option for small gatherings or organised wine touring groups.

A wine shop is on site, so you can take bottles home directly.

Getting There

Holm Oak is located in Rowella in the northern Tamar Valley, accessible by car via regional roads that are well maintained and suitable for caravans and campervans. If you're travelling from Launceston, the drive takes you through some of the valley's most scenic stretches. Nearby caravan parks in the Tamar Valley make it a viable overnight base if you're planning a longer itinerary across the region.

Visitor Tips

• Check the Holm Oak website for current opening hours and tour availability before heading out — hours can vary by season.
• The Tamar Valley is home to numerous cellar doors in close proximity, so it's worth planning a multi-winery day rather than making a single stop.
• Autumn (March–April) coincides with harvest, when vineyard activity picks up and some producers host events — a good time to visit if you want to see the winery in full swing.
• October through May generally offers the most comfortable weather for exploring the valley. December to February draws summer visitors, so expect it to be busier during those months.
• Spring and autumn both provide good conditions for a relaxed walk through the vines if you're joining a guided tour.