Craigie Knowe Vineyard · Established 1979
Our Story
A pioneering East Coast vineyard, a historic Tasmanian property and a family committed to carrying its story forward.
Custodians of a remarkable place
History, Family and a Love of Wine
Craigie Knowe is a family-owned working vineyard on Tasmania’s Freycinet Coast, proudly operated by father and son, Glenn and Alex Travers. As the oldest vineyard on the East Coast, it is a place shaped by pioneering vision, patient work and an enduring connection to the land.
The beginning
A Vision Planted in 1979
Our story begins when Hobart dentist and wine pioneer John Austwick planted vines on this remarkable site. At a time when viticulture on Tasmania’s East Coast was still unproven, his vision helped shape what would become one of Australia’s distinctive cool-climate wine regions.
John’s early plantings reflected his passion for Bordeaux varieties—Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot—later joined by Pinot Noir and Riesling. Wines were crafted onsite in what is now our Cellar Door.
A new chapter
From a Passing Thought to a Way of Life
Our own journey began in 2013 during a short stay on Tasmania’s East Coast. A few cellar doors, a drive through Cranbrook and a passing conversation about someday owning a vineyard quietly became a life-changing decision.
What we once imagined as semi-retirement became a full and deeply committed way of life—defined by craft, place and purpose. We arrived conscious that we were stepping into something already shaped by history and determined to respect what had come before us.
The land before the vines
A Property Rich in East Coast History
The historic homestead dates to 1836 and was built by the Amos family, some of the region’s earliest settlers. Their connection to this part of the East Coast continues, with descendants still living on neighbouring land. That living history is part of what makes Craigie Knowe so special.
The story continues
Wine, Food and a Warm Welcome
We continue to cultivate the original varieties planted by John and, in 2017, expanded through the long-term lease of Glen Heriot Vineyard just two kilometres away. There we grow Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and fruit for Rosé.
In December 2023, Flora’s Restaurant opened as a natural extension of the vineyard experience. Seasonal Tasmanian food, estate-grown wine and unhurried hospitality now bring another dimension to the story of Craigie Knowe.
The people behind Craigie Knowe
Our Family and Vineyard Team
Owner
Glenn Travers
Glenn works across the vineyard, cellar door, events and the many details involved in welcoming guests to Craigie Knowe.
Owner
Alex Travers
Alex works alongside Glenn across every part of the family business, helping guide the vineyard and its next chapter.
Vineyard Manager
Tristan “Whip” Gebicki
Whip leads the work in the vineyard, where careful observation, precision and respect for each season shape the quality of every harvest.
Flora’s Kitchen
Chefs Dea & Ngurah
Dea and Ngurah bring precision, creativity and a shared respect for quality ingredients to every service at Flora’s.
Kitchen Team
Samai
Samai brings warmth, care and attention to the team behind Flora’s relaxed vineyard dining experience.
From the archives
Craigie Knowe on the 7:30 Report
Watch archival footage of John Austwick and fellow Tasmanian wine pioneer Julian Alcorso discussing the early years of the industry.
Continue the story with us
Experience Craigie Knowe
Visit the cellar door, enjoy lunch at Flora’s and discover a place where history, wine and East Coast hospitality come together.
Cellar Door: Open daily, 11am–4pm
Flora’s Restaurant: Lunch Friday–Tuesday