Jasper Morris MW unearthed the Stoney Rise wines during his visit to Tasmania in February 2006. Since 2004 Joe & Lou Holyman, assisted by Joe's father Robin, have farmed their 4 hectares of 20 year old Pinot Noir & Chardonnay on gravel & iron stones over clay soils at their prime Tamar Valley vineyard north of Launceston.

Formerly a first-class wicket-keeper for Tasmania & wine enthusiast, Joe's family had been grape growers on the island prior to selling & setting up Stoney Rise; a brand created during his time at Roseworthy Agricultural College (alongside Matt Harrop of Shadowfax).The Stoney Rise estate, which lies 1.5 miles from the Tamar River's edge at about 30 metres above sea level comprises only a few different clones of old Pinot (mostly Swiss planted for the sparkling wine industry), but Joe's recently planted a high density hectare with a smorgasbord of clones as a foundation for the future.

He's also indulged himself with a few vines of Nebbiolo & Gruner Veltliner. Vinification is currently courtesy of a friend at the Tamar Ridge winery, who possess small enough stainless-steel vats to ferment his various parcels, while he plans his own winery.