What began as a spontaneous road trip quickly turned into a life-changing venture for Michael Hill Smith MW and Martin Shaw. Drawn by Tasmania’s pristine environment and encouraged by local legends, they were convinced of the island’s unique potential for producing outstanding Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. When they first set eyes on Tolpuddle Vineyard in the Coal River Valley, it was love at first sight. Established in 1988, the site’s gently sloping, northeast-facing aspect, cool and dry climate, and light silica-over-sandstone soils offered the perfect conditions for producing grapes of great flavour, balance, and intensity. Despite not being on the market, negotiations followed, and the vineyard soon became theirs.

The discovery itself felt serendipitous. What started as a casual reconnaissance trip, complete with dinners, advice from winemaking friends, and lessons in Tasmania’s unique climate, soon escalated into something far more. Within two days, Hill Smith and Shaw had stumbled upon Tolpuddle. 31 hectares of mature Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vines on an immaculate slope, framed by forest and water. A vineyard already known for its pedigree, having won the inaugural Tasmanian Vineyard of the Year Award in 2006, it embodied everything they were searching for.

Since then, Tolpuddle has flourished under their stewardship. Guided by senior winemaker Adam Wadewitz and vineyard manager Carlos Souris, with over 30 years of Tasmanian grapegrowing experience, the wines have achieved international acclaim. The Chardonnay alone has won the coveted “Frankie” trophy three times in recent years, cementing Tolpuddle’s place among Australia’s greatest vineyards. With sales and marketing led by David LeMire MW and a new tasting room opened in December 2024, the vineyard continues to evolve — Tolpuddle proves that some things are simply meant to be.