The whole island of Tasmania is an official wine zone and whilst the island is not `regionalised`, northern and southern Tasmania provide quite distinct viticultural areas. The island has a range of microclimates and soil types which gives the island its diversity of character. Central to the exploration of the northern vineyard areas is the city of Launceston located on the banks of the Tamar River. Southern Tasmania incorporates wine areas that are within easy reach of Hobart and are carefully located for maximum exposure to the sun and protectin from the cold southerly winds.