Craft ciders, orchard-fresh pies and crunchy apples ready to be devoured. You’re invited to delve deeper into one of the Apple Isle’s most celebrated products – the humble apple.
While the state’s apple production has slowed down since last century – when Tasmania got the nickname of Apple Isle – there’s now a thriving cider industry to explore. Add to this super-fresh apples and delicious pastries, and you’ve got one very tasty itinerary – especially during the main harvest throughout autumn.
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History makers
A great place to start is Willie Smith’s, where a big 1940s apple-packing shed has become a welcoming space to eat, drink and learn about apples.
Since Mr Smith planted his Huon Valley orchard in 1888, four generations have grown apples here, not far from Hobart. Lately they’ve also been making alcoholic ciders, as well as apple brandy, liqueur and spirit under the Charles Oates Distilling brand.
Enjoy a cider spritz and hot spiced cider, or an excellent sparkling apple juice, over lunch. From cider-braised pork belly to the amazing apple pie, you’ll savour great, regional food here. If the weather’s nice get in early for the outdoor seating, and book ahead when Friday live-music sessions and Saturday markets are happening.
Allow time to explore the mini-museum dedicated to the valley’s apple-growing history, and browse the gourmet products on sale, from drinks made on-site to local jams, honey and saffron.
Northern refreshment
The home of Spreyton Fresh apple juice and Spreyton Cider is a short drive from where Spirit of Tasmania docks in Devonport.
An orchard established in 1908 has since spawned a cellar door that overlooks where it all happens, from trees to factory. Treat the kids to non-alcoholic cider, while you enjoy traditional and contemporary ciders, including pear cider. Find your favourites with a tasting, maybe settle in for a glass or two, and buy some bottles for home.
More drinks to discover
There are several other Tasmanian cideries, including relative newcomers like Red Brick Road. Visit their cellar door-meets-laidback lounge in Deloraine, or Ciderhouse bar nearby in Launceston.
Back in the Huon Valley, there’s more to enjoy at Frank’s ciderhouse, cafe and apple museum, and Pagan Cider‘s cellar door.
Discover these and more along the official Tasmanian Cider Trail, and consider popping into Hartzview vineyard for a taste of their spiced apple mead liqueur.
Get picky!
Eating crisp apples fresh from the tree is a delicious experience, so why not include a little pick-your-own fun in the itinerary. Sorrell Fruit Farm‘s apples are ripe for the picking from March to May, and they offer pre-booked farm tours too. After you’ve filled a bucket, relax in the cafe and buy some of their excellent products.
Also check out the Tasmanian Seasonal Produce Guide for farmgates selling fresh apples, including varieties harvested in spring and summer.
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