Tasmania's 2021 vintage has set new record for the value of grapes, with winemakers credited for "digging deep" to produce some amazing fruit.
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According to Wine Tasmania's annual vintage report, this year's harvest returned to average yields after a low-cropping 2020 vintage.
The industry experienced an increase of 18 per cent to about 1.05 million dozen bottles of wines - or almost 14,500 tonnes.
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Wine Tasmania chief executive Sheralee Davies said the quality was also reflected in the record value of $3146 per tonne, compared with the national average of $701 per tonne.
"With a welcome return to average yields in 2021, these wines are set to excite Tassie wine lovers when they are released," she said.
"With variable seasonal conditions around the island yet again this year, wine producers dug deep to bring in some amazing fruit."
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The report noted consistent state-wide themes of generous rain in winter and spring, cool temperatures and steady ripening, with the anticipated higher rainfall in a La Nina year lower than expected.
Acknowledging the challenges of some producers in accessing seasonal fruit pickers, Ms Davies said varieties including pinot noir and chardonnay were a standout, along with aromatic whites such as riesling, pinot gris and sauvignon blanc.
"We're hearing great stories of Tasmanian wine lovers seeking out their favourite producers, buying directly from them and spending more than usual on wine and at cellar doors to demonstrate their strong support," she said.
"As with other agricultural sectors, there were some challenges with accessing seasonal labour, and some wine producers reallocated staff from other parts of their businesses to help bring in the harvest."
Tasmania's wine sector is estimated to contribute about $200 million to the state's economy.
Primary Industries Minister Guy Barnett said the government was continuing to support the industry through market development opportunities and its Strategic Industry Partnerships program.
"Additionally, we are investing $100,000 to assist with improving resilience in the wine sector and fund emergency smoke testing, which is part of the $10.2 million new Ag-Protection Package to future-proof Tasmanian agriculture and manage risks to primary industries," he said.
"The Tasmanian government is also providing $4.2 million for practical strategies to improve productivity and profitability through the supply chain to support agricultural sectors, which is expected to support the wine sector."
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