Tasmania is an Australian state 199 km southeast of the mainland. Because of the 42nd parallel south, which cuts the island in two, it is the coolest region in Australia. The surrounding sea gives it a temperate maritime climate. As a result, its wines stand apart from the warm, full bodied New World wines found on the mainland. Tasmanian vineyards are closer to the cool vineyards of Europe, even France. In the north of the island you will find aromatic Riesling and Pinot Gris, and sparkling wines that keep rising in quality. On the coastal plains and in the south of the island, Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer and Pinot Noir grow wonderfully well.