Brisbane - East, Queensland is home to two prominent wine regions: the Granite Belt and the South Burnett. The Granite Belt wine region, situated south-west of Brisbane, is centered around Stanthorpe and covers an area of 1,158 km2. It boasts a high altitude of over 1000 meters above sea level, providing a cool climate suitable for various grape varieties. The primary grape varieties cultivated in this region are Shiraz, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Shiraz wines from the Granite Belt are characterized by their dark color and full flavor, becoming softer and more velvety as they age. Chardonnay grapes perform exceptionally well in this region, yielding soft wines with a pleasant and clear varietal character in a nectarine and melon spectrum. Cabernet Sauvignon wines are full, dark, and rich in flavor, often tasting of sweet fruit such as blackcurrant and dark berries. The Granite Belt is also known for its distinctive Verdelho wines, which are aromatic and feature herbaceous and tropical fruit flavors.
The South Burnett wine region, located 200km north-west of Brisbane, features a subtropical climate that contributes to structured and complex wines. This region has been producing wine for over two decades and is known for its award-winning wines, especially those made from Verdelho, Semillon, and Chardonnay grapes. Additionally, the South Burnett Cabernet Sauvignon is renowned, and alternative varieties such as Barbera, Sangiovese, and Nebbiolo are gaining popularity. Both regions offer picturesque scenery, making them attractive destinations for tourists interested in exploring Queensland's wine country.