Tiger Ranch Wines

Neil Colbeck developed a fascination with fine wine during his time as sommelier, first in the UK and thereafter at Hayman Island, between 1987 and '90. At that time the Island was at its zenith, with a cellar of over 38 000 bottles worth $750 000. All good things have to come to an end, and when he returned to Tasmania in '90, he planted his first vineyard. In 2000 Tiger Ranch was relocated to Lower Barrington and a new vineyard is being progressively planted. In the meantime grapes are coming from Lake Barrington Vineyard and a second vineyard at Eugenana. Ultimately production will focus on pinot noir (two-thirds), chardonnay (one-third) and a small amount of gewurztraminer. -JAMES HALLIDAY