A ripple of whispers spreads through the 100-odd winemakers and sparkling lovers gathered in Tasmania’s Tamar Valley: “Is that Joe Chromy?”
Guests are mingling in a rotunda overlooking a glistening lake at the legend’s eponymous winery, ahead of a gala dinner to kick-start Effervescence Tasmania – a sparkling wine festival now in its 10th year. A chance to see and speak to the icon of the Tasmanian wine industry is a rare treat, particularly given that Chromy turned 94 on December 18.