QLD

It may surprise you to know that the first grapes were planted in Queensland in 1860 in Roma, 500km west of Brisbane. The state also has pockets of wineries in many regions including Toowoomba, the Gold Coast hinterland, Mt Tamborine, the Scenic Rim and the Sunshine Coast hinterland. However, there are only two official wine growing regions: the Granite Belt – one of Australia’s highest wine growing regions that’s 220km south-west of Brisbane and famous for alternative varieties such as Tempranillo, Nebbiolo and Barbera – and South Burnett – a relatively new region on the Sunshine Coast where the sub-tropical climate is great for Verdelho, Chardonnay and Sangiovese. While we don’t currently have any wines from Queensland, they’re on their way. Our Tasting Panel is busy talking to local producers to secure you the state’s best, so watch this space.