So much more than The Great Barrier Reef, theme parks and tanned scantily clad Aussies, Queensland offers enticing wine experiences from its swiftly developing wine regions.
Queensland has a wine history that dates back to the 1860’s and today a few handful of producers are shining a light on the unique viticulture possibilities and demanding the attention of savvy wine consumers.
Queensland is one of the warmest regions in Australia but a number of factors determine the mesoclimate in its vast 1.85 million square kilometres that encompass the state.
The Great Dividing Range plays a huge part and offers higher altitudes resulting in cooler temperatures needed for maintaining grape berry acidity.
Queensland has two Geographical indications that are officially recognised,
The Granite Belt which is situated on the northern reaches of the New England Tableland and on the eastern spine of the Great Dividing Range. The region has an average altitude of 800 metres. Its granitic soils, cool climate and low humidity make it the perfect place for premium grape growing conditions.
The other GI is South Burnett which is nestled inland of the Sunshine Coast amongst ancient forests, national parks and rich agriculture land. This is Queensland’s newest official wine region and its climate can be classed as sub tropical. South Burnett is suited to wines that can handle more moderate growing conditions. The range in altitude, which can be up to 1141m above sea level and the subtle maritime influence assists in keeping the climate mild enough for successful viticulture.
The other wine regions of note are:
- Darling Downs
- Gold Coast Hinterland
- Scenic Rim
- Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Discover what Queensland has to offer just a hop skip and jump from the coastline and you'll be sure to be bathed in sunlight with glorious grape juice in hand.
