Domaine A/Moorilla

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Tucked away in one of the world’s most pristine wine regions, Domaine A and Moorilla are two Tasmanian icons that prove cool climate winemaking can produce wines with extraordinary depth, structure, and longevity. Think classic European technique meets wild southern edge — a mix of precision, patience, and pure Tasmanian character.

Moorilla started life in 1958, founded by Italian textile merchant Claudio Alcorso, who took a punt on Tasmania long before it was fashionable. He planted vines on the banks of the Derwent River, laying the foundations for what’s now one of the island’s leading estates.

Domaine A, meanwhile, was born in the Coal River Valley — founded by Swiss couple Peter & Ruth Althaus, who dreamed of making Bordeaux-style wines in Tasmania’s cool climate. They proved it could be done, and done brilliantly.

Fast forward to the present and both estates now sit under the creative wing of David Walsh, the man behind Hobart’s world-famous MONA (Museum of Old and New Art). Together, they form a rare partnership of art, science, and terroir — and the results are remarkable.

Domaine A’s Stoney Vineyard is one of Tasmania’s oldest and most respected sites. North-facing slopes, long daylight hours, and coastal breezes combine to produce grapes that ripen slowly and evenly — perfect for structure and balance.

Moorilla operates two distinct vineyards:

• Moorilla Vineyard beside MONA on the Derwent River, with complex soils that add texture and savoury nuance.
• St Matthias Vineyard on the Tamar River, giving fruit that’s fresher and more aromatic — ideal for vibrant, fruit-forward wines.

Together, these sites showcase the very best of Tasmania’s cool-climate diversity.

Both labels share a patient, minimal-intervention mindset. The fruit is handled gently, yields are low, and oak is used with restraint the goal is purity and balance rather than power. At Domaine A, the focus is on Bordeaux-style reds built to last: structured, complex and capable of ageing beautifully. Think time-honoured French technique translated through Tasmanian terroir. Moorilla, meanwhile, works across three distinct ranges: Muse, Praxis & Cloth Label

Iconic winemaker Conor van der Reest leads both estates with a focus on detail, patience, and precision.

Domaine A and Moorilla capture everything that makes Tasmanian wine exciting — cool climate elegance, serious craftsmanship, and a streak of creative rebellion. These aren’t rushed wines; they’re thoughtful, cellar-worthy, and quietly confident.

They also show that Tasmania isn’t just about Pinot and fizz — it’s a place where Cabernet can truly thrive when handled with patience and precision. In short: art in a bottle, with attitude.