Let me start by saying, I am a proud Queenslander. This state welcomed me when I moved here in 2021 and while I’ve traveled all over, I’ve truly come to think of Queensland as my second home.

If you’re looking for a weekend escape, don’t sleep on the south-west corner of Queensland, just a three-hour drive from Brisbane. Here lies one of Australia’s hidden gems: the Granite Belt wine region. Despite its relatively small size, the Granite Belt boasts over 50 wineries, producing premium wines thanks to its unique climate and high-altitude vineyards.

Poised at altitudes ranging from 600 to 1,300 meters on the Great Dividing Range, the Granite Belt is one of the highest wine regions in Australia. This elevation provides a climate that is much cooler than the subtropical warmth associated with Queensland, making it a summer retreat for coastal Queenslanders.

What to do in Stanthorpe

Visit the Big Apple

If you’re checking off the list of Australia’s “Big Things” don’t forget to stop by the Big Apple. Am I standing in a field in heeled boots to get this shot? Yes, I am. Was it worth it? Also yes.

Visit Sutton’s Farm

Inside an old packing shed, just beside the New England highway and diagonally opposite The Big Apple is a bright pink sign saying Sutton’s Juice Factory & Cidery & Café, open seven days. Drive into the old packing shed which, from the outside, gives no clue as to what may be found on the other side of the door. We were lucky enough to snag a piece of apple pie which was EXCELLENT.

Girraween National Park

Girraween, meaning 'place of flowers', is a park of massive granite outcrops, large angular tors, and precariously balanced boulders.

If you want to reach the infamous balancing rock, it’s a 3.6km return journey that takes you to the top of a natural granite pyramid, where you'll find Balancing Rock, among sweeping views across the park. Getting there is more of a scramble than a stroll, so expect to be on all fours for parts of the climb (and we were, on all 4’s. Be safe!).

Best wineries in Stanthorpe

There are 50 wineries in Stanthorpe so there is sure to be something that suits everyone’s palate.

• Tobin Wines: We had such a fun experience at Tobin, and walked away with their Jacob Tempranillo (a strange bird!). Make sure to make a booking in advance.

• Ballandean Estate Wines: Ballandean Estate is Queensland's oldest family-owned and operated winery. Located on the glorious Granite Belt, 850 meters above sea level, the estate is home to some of Australia's oldest Shiraz vines, and rarest wine varietals. We enjoy the 2021 Shiraz Viognier.

• Balancing Heart Vineyard: With live music every weekend, Balancing Heart is a perfect place to sit back and relax at their sunset wine and woodfired pizza area. Book ahead, space fills up quickly. Our favorite is the "MUSE & EPOQUE" - 2022 SAPERAVI.

• Settler’s Rise Terriors of the Granite Belt: Although there isn't a cellar door to visit, be on the lookout for these exceptional wines. The 'Terroirs of the Granite Belt' collection from Settlers Rise features a 2010 Aged Chardonnay and a 2008 Aged Shiraz. Both wines have been intentionally aged and carefully cellared since production, now being released at the ideal time for enjoying their full potential.

Embracing "Strange Bird" Varieties

The Granite Belt is best known for its alternative grape varieties, collectively referred to as "Strange Birds." These wines, representing less than one percent of Australian plantings, are a highlight for wine enthusiasts seeking something different. Varieties such as Albariño, Saperavi, Pinotage, and Fiano are just a few of the "Strange Birds" that grace the region's vineyards.

A designated Strange Bird Wine Trail leads visitors through 24 wineries that produce these alternative varietals. Each stop provides a chance to taste something rare, alongside cheat sheets that offer pronunciation tips, food pairings, and tasting notes. While these lesser-known grapes take the spotlight, Granite Belt also excels in traditional varieties like Shiraz, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Verdelho, and Viognier.

The Role of Geography and Climate

The Granite Belt's high altitude allows it to overcome the typical challenges of a subtropical climate. The region experiences sub-zero winter nights, spring frosts, and moderated summer temperatures, all contributing to a more temperate growing season. These conditions, along with the well-drained granite soils formed from a 200-million-year-old geological intrusion, make it possible to grow high-quality wine grapes here.

The region is not without its challenges, though. Grapevines must contend with cold nights, intermittent monsoonal rains, and occasional late-season heavy rainfall. However, these hurdles only add to the uniqueness of Granite Belt wines.

A Proud History of Viticulture

The Granite Belt’s viticultural history began in 1965 with the planting of Shiraz. Since then, the region has expanded to include around 400 hectares of vineyards. While it may be one of Australia’s lesser-known wine regions, it has become a beloved destination for wine tourism, attracting visitors with its artisanal wines and boutique wineries.

Unlike some of Australia’s larger wine regions, Granite Belt has remained relatively untouched by major wine companies, allowing it to retain a strong boutique focus. This independence means the region is defined by small-scale, handcrafted wines that reflect its distinct terroir.

The Future of the Granite Belt

While the Granite Belt may have remained off the radar for many non-Queenslanders, it has built a solid reputation within the state. With a strong sense of community and a growing focus on alternative grape varieties, the region’s profile is slowly rising. Wineries like Golden Grove Estate, Symphony Hill, and Sirromet have produced wines that compete on an international scale, showcasing the immense potential of this unique wine-growing area.

Sirromet, Queensland’s largest winery, has even established a significant vineyard presence in the Granite Belt, further adding to the region’s growing prestige. Flame Hill Vineyard is another recent addition, marking the Granite Belt as a region to watch.

The Granite Belt may be Australia’s most overlooked wine region, but it’s certainly not forgotten by those who have experienced its charm. With a combination of high-altitude vineyards, alternative grape varieties, and a community dedicated to craftsmanship, this boutique wine region is well worth the journey for any wine lover.

Whether you're exploring its Strange Birds or enjoying the crisp, cool air of its elevated plains, the Granite Belt is a unique destination that continues to surprise and delight visitors year after year.