South Burnett Queensland
One of the wonderful things about Australia is the
magnificent diversity of its landscapes. It is a country were you
can head north to winter warmth, sub-tropical rainforests and glittering
coastlines and still find yourself in a wine region producing quality
wines and with a food culture that appreciates regionally grown
produce and good cooking.
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The South Burnett wine
region is nestled under the beautiful Bunya Mountains
Photo: Courtesy Tourism Queensland |
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South Burnett was the first official wine region in
Queensland, and still remains the largest area under vines in the
state. Vineyards were established in the early 1990s through to
the end of decade. The development of the region was spurred by
the Macarthur Report which recommended the South Burnett for viticulture.
The region has a sub-tropical climate with high rainfall during
the growing season and water available from the Bjelke-Petersen
Dam in the dry season. Grapes are grown on a range of soils including
rich volcanic soils.
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Bushwalking Bunya Mountains
National Park
Photo: Courtesy
Tourism Queensland |
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It should be no surprise that South Burnett wines are described
as having aromas of tropical fruit, passionfriut, mango, banana,
pineapple, paw paw, lychee and lime.
Verdelho is emerging as a stand-out variety in the region with crisp,
dry citrus flavours, The region also produces Shiraz with a distinct
blackberry and peppery nose, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and a range
of red blends are also produced. Kingsley Grove Estate produces
a light styled Sangiovese and Chambourcin an early ripening red
variety.
The region produces a range of ports, muscats and liquers including
a roasted peanut liqueur from Booie Range Distillers.
South Burnett has been building a reputation for fine wines since
the 1990s. Achieving accolades and medals has been Stuart Range
with their Red Ant label, Crane Wines, Bridgeman Down and Clovely
Estate.
Wine, Dine, Stay
The region has a lively food culture supported by wineries and
vineyards with cafés and restaurants.
You will find lunch and platters, cakes and coffee at Ziebarth Wines,
Goodger, and Whistle Stop Wines at Nanango. At Moffatdale you can
enjoy gourmet food with views at Tipperary Estate and Molly’s
Café and Bakery (Dusty Hill Wines) focus on functions. Jason
and Sue Kinsella at Moffatdale Ridge produce their own wine and
beef which they serve in their bistro.
Near Kingaroy overlooking the Booie Range you will find Captain’s
Paddock café open for meals and functions. For evening dining
take the view and fine cuisine at Bell Tower Café Restaurant
at Booie Range Distillers and at Copper Country Motor Inn Restaurant
you can savour their vineyard grown Shiraz. Check the right hand
menu for more eateries.
The region, only a day trip from Brisbane, has the well-marked
South Burnett Wine Trail with plenty of cellar doors along its route.
If you wish to stay in the region there is a range of accommodation
from cabins in the Bunya Mountains to self contained cottages at
wineries such as Clovely Estate and Captains' Paddock.
There is plenty to experience in the region. The main wine and food
events throughout the year are Wine and Food in the Park, Kingaroy
in March and the Shakin' Grape Wine Festival at Murgon every October.
Harvest time: late January to early March
Sites with more information:
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Clovely Estate, one of many rustic cellar
doors and vineyard cafes in the region
Photo: Courtesy Murgon Visitors Centre
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Moss Brothers 
