Tropical North Queensland, located in Australia, is renowned for its warm and subtropical climate. Despite the warmth, its growing regions are often classified as cool climate due to high altitudes and specific weather patterns. The Granite Belt, a leading wine region in Tropical North Queensland, stands out for its altitude exceeding 800 meters, leading to challenging winter conditions, spring frosts, and moderate summer temperatures influenced by monsoons.
The Granite Belt region has a rich history of viticulture and winemaking, emphasizing signature grape varieties. For whites, prominent varieties include Verdelho, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc, alongside lesser-known Mediterranean grapes like Fiano, Semillon, and Vermentino. In terms of red wines, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Grenache, Petite Verdot, Sangiovese, and Mourvèdre are among the notable varieties cultivated in the region.
Apart from the Granite Belt, Tropical North Queensland features numerous boutique wineries across the state. These wineries prioritize quality craftsmanship over quantity, producing artisan wines through traditional methods.