The Vineyard Site

In 2007 the decision was made to plant a vineyard at Gala and take advantage of Tasmania’s growing reputation as a premium cool climate wine region. Several successful vineyards have been flourishing in the Cranbrook area since the early 1980’s.

The “Gala Kirk” hill was chosen as our primary vineyard site because of its harsh, shallow ironstone soils and warm northern aspect which will allow our vines to achieve their full potential.   The steep slopes and shallow light soils are not favourable for high yielding crops; however, they are most advantageous for quality. This combination of soil and slope also allow us to manage available water which is a huge advantage in producing consistent high quality vintages as well as reducing disease pressure.

One of the biggest challenges of growing vines at Cranbrook is the constant threat of late frosts that can destroy an entire fruit set if not managed. On a cold October or November night the valley can be a hive of activity with producers starting wind generators and large areas of overhead irrigation in an effort to protect the 7 vineyards and 2 walnut orchards that generate significant income for our rural community. By sunrise, the overhead irrigated frost protection has produced spectacular ice gardens with 6 inch ice stalactites hanging from the thousands of wires that make up the VSP (vertical shoot position) trellis systems.

In 2011 Gala Estate produced our first vintage with spectacular results. The 4.3 hectares of productive vineyard yielded around 3 ton / Ha and our cellar door opened in Dec. In 2012 we have had another successful vintage and now have a wine range which includes a light style “young vine” Pinot Noir, an Estate Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Rose, Pinot Gris, Dry Riesling and a Late Harvest Riesling and a Sparkling to be released in 2014.