Queensland's Granite Belt region is renowned for its high-quality wines, despite the challenges posed by its subtropical climate. This region has garnered a reputation for producing complex cool-climate wines, with a focus on alternative grape varieties. The Granite Belt accounts for over sixty percent of Queensland's wine production, thanks to its unique microclimate and granitic soil that enhance the balance and complexity of its wines.
Grape varieties like Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay thrive in the Granite Belt, alongside alternative options like Verdelho, Marsanne, Viognier, Fiano, and Albarino. The region is particularly known for its peppery, medium-bodied Shiraz, reminiscent of wines from the Rhone Valley. Emerging red varieties such as Tempranillo, Graciano, Tannat, Barbera, Saperavi, and Petit Verdot are also gaining popularity in this area.
In the South Burnett region of Queensland, high-quality white wines like Verdelho, Semillon, and Chardonnay are produced, along with alternative varieties like Barbera, Sangiovese, and Nebbiolo. Despite the subtropical climate challenges, both the Granite Belt and South Burnett regions have solidified their positions as significant contributors to Australia's wine industry.