Granite Belt

The Granite Belt is southwest of Brisbane, around Stanthorpe. Its hills and plains run from 600 to 1500 metres, and some vineyards sit above 1000 metres. Decomposed granite soils are generally well drained and naturally acidic. Sub-zero winter nights, spring frost and more than 500 millimetres of rain during the growing season can make vineyard work difficult. Shiraz, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are central to the region, with Verdelho and Viognier also grown. Chardonnay is made in oaked and unoaked styles. Cabernet Sauvignon can be dark and rich, with blackcurrant and dark berry flavours. The first wine grapes were planted as one hectare of Shiraz in 1965.