Stanthorpe is most famous for its wine (it’s not called Granite Belt Wine Country for nothing!). There’s over 50 wineries in the area, so there’s no way you’d get through them all on your trip. To help out, here is a list of our favourite Stanthorpe wineries.
It’s worth noting that we’ve not had a chance to try all of the wineries and new ones are popping up each year. We recommend doing some research on opening times and availability before you visit.
Highly recommended: Jester Hills Wines
Location: 292 Mt Stirling Road, Glen Aplin, QLD 4380
We like it because: great storytelling and informative wine tasting
Jester Hill Wines is one of the closest wineries to us at Severn River Cottages – a mere 5 minutes drive away.
Their wine tasting is not to be missed. They weave witty storytelling with great humour when describing the wines. During our tasting, each of us had different flavour preferences, and the suggested wines were perfect. If you prefer sweet wine, we recommend the 2023 Gold Roussanne. If you drink red, try the 2017 Triboulet Blend.
Highly recommended: Granite Ridge Wines
Location: 157 Sundown Road, Ballandean, QLD 4382
We like it because: friendly owners and lovely wine
Heading south now towards Ballandean is Granite Ridge Wines. On arrival at Severn River Cottages, we give all of our guests a bottle of Granite Ridge wine. The Garnet sweet red wine has been a popular choice this winter! We also recommend the Pops Tawny Port, 2023 Rosé Shiraz, and the Chardonello Spritz.
Highly recommended: Balancing Heart Vineyard
Location: 221 Old Wallangarra Road, Wyberba, QLD 4382
We like it because: passionate winemaker and vineyard strolls
Balancing Heart Vineyard is a really engaging and exciting winery near Girraween National Park. The winemaker Mike Hayes is a trailblazer in the industry, and is truly passionate about winemaking and uplifting tourism within the Granite Belt area.
They have a range of experiences on offer, including food and live music. You can also walk through the vines to spot the balancing rocks which inspired the name of the winery, or feed the farmyard animals on site. No matter when you visit, you can be sure you’ll have a wonderful experience.
Highly recommended: Robert Channon Wines
Location: 32 Bradley Lane, Amiens, QLD 4380
We like it because: beautiful location and the Verdelho
Robert Channon Wines is a vineyard to the north-west of Stanthorpe, towards Amiens. They’re very experienced winemakers and have been producing wines since 1998.
Upon entering the winery you’re greeted with expansive views of the region. A floral path guides you to the front door, which is beautiful in spring. It was a hot day when we visited, and the outdoor area was enjoyable.
Their 2022 Singing Lake Swoon dessert wine, in addition to their mutli-award winning Verdelho, is not to be missed.
Planning a trip to Granite Belt Wine Country?
There’s certainly lots of vineyards for wine-lovers to enjoy here in the Granite Belt area! You would need multiple trips to sample it all.
Next time you visit Stanthorpe and are looking for a place to stay, consider Severn River Cottages. We have three private cottages surrounded by pristine bush, and are neighbours with a fledgling winery (opening soon!). Perfect for couples or small groups, it’s a great place to relax after sampling local wines.
