Wattle Grove Wines submits development application with the Kentish Council to build $300,000 cellar door

A wine and beef producer has submitted a development plan for a cellar door and restaurant a year after it was forced to pivot from vegetable farming. Check out the plans.

PICTURE: ZOE PHILLIPS

A vegetable farm that was forced to diversify into wine and beef production could soon be home to a high-end cellar door and restaurant.

Wattle Grove Wines has submitted a development application to the Kentish Council to build a cellar door at 964 Sheffield Road at Lower Barrington.

It is estimated that the project will cost $300,000.

The business shifted to wine and beef production around a year ago.

“Despite the dedication and hard work of our farming team, we found ourselves at a crossroads,” Wattle Grove said in a business plan it provided the Kentish Council as part of its submission.

“Lack of contracts from major buyers such as McCain, who opted to import potatoes this year, along with Simplot’s decision not to approve any new contracts, left us without our primary source of revenue.

“Facing this stark reality, we were compelled to make a significant decision about the future of our farm.”

The concept design of Wattle Grove Wines' proposed cellar door. Picture: Supplied.

This led to the business expanding to viticulture.

“Recognising the inherent value of our land and its potential, we planted vineyards, leveraging our deep connection to the land to cultivate exceptional grapes.

“This transition not only preserved our farm but also allowed us to pivot towards producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of Tasmania’s northwest coast.

“Opening a cellar door is the natural next step in sharing our story and the fruits of our labour with both locals and visitors.

“This new venture not only secures our financial future but also ensures that our farm remains a vibrant part of the community, where people can gather, enjoy stunning vistas, and savour wines bred by the unyielding spirit of our land.”

The proposed design for the entrance to the Wattle Grove Wines cellar door. Picture: Supplied.

Wattle Grove Wines is hoping to expand its offerings.

Wattle Grove also plans to serve its beef at the cellar door.

“By incorporating our own beef into our restaurant’s offerings, we provide a true farm-to-plate experience,” they said in their submission.

“Guests will have the unique opportunity to savour delicious, locally sourced beef that is raised right here on our farm, complementing their wine-tasting experience with fresh, homegrown flavours.”

The public can view the development application on the Kentish Council website.