There is something special about being served wine in a proper, branded glass by someone who knows the intimate details of the wine you are tasting, while standing just metres away from the very grapes the wine was made from. If this sounds like an experience you'd enjoy, then it's time you explored the wine regions on Brisbane's doorstep.
Queensland's biggest wine region is the Granite Belt, approximately three hours south-west of Brisbane. If distance is no obstacle when it comes to good wine, then the town of
Stanthorpe is a great base for exploration. There are plenty of companies in the area offering tours of all the major vineyards, or you can organise your own driving tour. If you are setting out on your own, a few of the wineries to put on your itinerary include Queensland's oldest and largest family-owned winery,
Ballandean Estate, as well as
Rumbalara,
Golden Grove Estate and
Summit Estate Wines.
If Stanthorpe is just a little bit too far to go, then try the wineries of the
Mt Tamborine area, in the Gold Coast Hinterland. This region combines their wines with excellent restaurants, boutique accommodation and stunning views. A few of the wine highlights are the
Cedar Creek Estate,
Witches Falls Winery and
Albert River Wines.
If you are looking for something even closer to home, just 30 minutes from Brisbane in
Mt Cotton, is
Sirromet Wines. With tours, tastings, an award-winning restaurant and live jazz every Saturday and Sunday, this is an excellent place to spend a lazy weekend afternoon.
So, forget the Barossa. Forget the Hunter. Forget Margaret River. Take advantage of Queensland's burgeoning wine industry, and get yourself to the nearest cellar door.
