About

Our Story

Welcome to Uplands Vineyard, where we, Michael and Debbie, craft extraordinary wines in the heart of Tasmania’s captivating Coal River Valley. As the stewards of this historical haven, we’re excited to share our passion and purpose with you.
Our journey embarks in 1823, an era that predates Melbourne itself. Uplands was conceived under the watchful eye of John Petchey, a former convict who transformed his life into an entrepreneurial tale. His resilience and reinvention mirror the rich history of Tasmania, a place we’ve come to cherish.
In the early years, the Coal River Valley was celebrated as ‘the Granary of Australia,’ flourishing with abundant harvests. Uplands played an integral role, cultivating apricots, quinces, pears, grains, and tending to herds of sheep. Over two centuries, only four families have had the privilege of owning this land, and we are honored to continue this legacy.
The tale of viticulture in the Coal River Valley began in 1973, and in 1998, we planted chardonnay vines. Despite our boutique size, Tasmanian Vintners transform our grapes into award-winning wines.
Here in the Coal River Valley, our grapes enjoy a unique climate. Winter and spring bring important rainfall, while late summer and early autumn gift us with long, sun-drenched days. This harmonious balance allows our grapes to slowly ripen, infusing them with flavour ripeness and natural acidity.
Join us on a journey through time, taste, and terroir. Uplands Vineyard is more than a vineyard; it’s a reflection of our shared passion, a testament to Tasmania’s winemaking legacy, and a place where every bottle tells a story.

The Uplands Story in Moments

Discover the milestones, families, and transformations that have nurtured this land for over 200 years.

1823

John Petchey

The house was built circa 1823 by John Petchey, who was sentenced to transportation for 14 years in 1810 for receiving stolen goods and arrived in Van Diemen’s Land in 1812 on the Indefatigable. He was released earlier and from 1816-1823 was the keeper in the Hobart Town Gaol, He was granted 400 acres at Hollow Tree, the former name for Cambridge, and built Uplands. By 1825 he had 1,000 sheep, 20 cattle, a substantial house and outbuildings, another 1,000 acres under lease and 10 convict servants. John Petchey drowned in the Hobart Regatta in December 1850.

1848

William Farquhar McKay

William Farquhar McKay purchased Uplands on 15th May 1848 for 2,250 pounds and at this time consisted of 1,560 acres. He arrived in Tasmania in 1824 on the Phoenix No 2 after being sentenced to life imprisonment and transported at 14 years of age for stealing 2 watches. He was pardoned in 1832 and died in 1864.

1912

Alan Mckay

Alan and Ella McKay on Uplands Veranda, 1912

12 Nov 1930

Alan Mckay

When the days work is done!
Alan and Ella McKay with Betty, Bob and Ben, and three farm workers

1998

Michael and Debbie

First planting of chardonnay

2018

Transformation

Transformation of the Long Shed continues in 2018…

2020

The First Year Opening

Uplands first year opening for Southern Open Vineyards Weekend
Uplands venturing into the cider business in 2020

2020 Dec

Expanding the Vineyard

Expanding the Vineyard in December 2020 planting more Chardonnay and adding Pinot Noir

2022/2023

Renovations

2023

The Dark Shed

2025

Royal Hobart Wine Show 2025

SPARKLING WINE OF PROVENANCE
Sponsored by the Wine Hopper
Uplands Vineyard
2011 Pinot Noir/Chardonnay
2018 Blanc de Blancs
2021 Blanc de Blancs