Tasmania is an Australian state located 199 km south-east of the mainland. The 42nd parallel, which crosses the country in the middle, makes this Australia’s coolest region. In terms of climate, as the ocean surrounds the island on all sides, it is both oceanic and temperate. Unlike their mainland counterparts, Tasmanian wines are not as full-bodied and warm. Similar to their European cousins, specifically the French and German, their vineyards are cool. In fact, the northern part of the island produces aromatic Rieslings and Pinot Gris and sparkling wines that just keep getting better and better. Meanwhile, the plains and the south of the island cultivate excellent Chardonnays, Gewurztraminer and Pinot Noir.