Eyes on the prize at popular vineyard

WITH nearly 300 reviews and an impressive 4.9-star rating, it’s no surprise that Craigie Knowe Vineyard has taken home the customer service gong at the 2024 Tasmanian Community Achievement Awards. 

Located in Cranbrook, Craigie Knowe is the oldest continuously operating vineyard on the East Coast. 

The vineyard is owned and managed by Glenn Travers and his son Alex, who are committed to delivering a high-standard wine and hospitality experience. 

Founded in 1979 by John Austwick, Craigie Knowe was one of the first vineyards in the area, a risky venture at a time when growing grapes on the East Coast was almost unheard of. 

“But he was onto something,” Mr Travers said. 

Before buying the vineyard in 2013, Mr Travers had a long career in the wine industry, managing Woolworths liquor stores in Hobart and running a wholesale wine business. 

Having been involved in the industry since the late 1980s, he saw growing grapes and managing the vineyard as a natural next step. In the 11 years since the Travers family took over, the vineyard has become increasingly popular. 

Visitors not only enjoy the stunning views but also the exceptional food on site at Flora’s Restaurant. 

The menu was created by the vineyard’s head chef, who has spent the past 15 years perfecting his skills in France during the off-season. 

The food celebrates local ingredients, with wine-tasting platters thoughtfully paired with local artisanal cheeses and Tasmanian chocolates. The vineyard also offers guided tours.

Mr Travers attributes the success of the vineyard to the dedicated team. 

Glenn, Alex, and Alex’s wife work alongside vineyard manager Tristan Gebecki, three skilled chefs and their valued vineyard team. 

While Mr Gebecki manages the grapes, the wine is crafted just down the road at Springvale Vineyard. 

“We work closely with their winemaker to create a wine that reflects our vision and our recipe,” Mr Travers said. 

Craigie Knowe grows a variety of grape varieties, including Riesling, Petit Bordeaux, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Gris. 

In the near future Mr Travers hopes to expand the vineyard on a new block and start growing Shiraz grapes. 

One of the standout aspects of Craigie Knowe is its customer service and visitors praise Mr Travers for his hospitality. 

“We have a great time because the customers are wonderful,” he said. 

“My favourite part is interacting with guests in the cellar door, guiding them through the wines, sharing stories, making them laugh and sending them away feeling good.” 

Mr Travers hopes the winery will become a destination for live music. 

Under Alex’s direction, the venue has already hosted acts such as the Wolfe Brothers and Ash Grunwald, drawing crowds from across the state with the next performances already planned.