Wine time

Winter on the Granite Belt conjures up visions of roaring fires, slow cooked lamb and …. red wine. Ahhhh …

WITH PETER O’REILLY OF GRANITE BELT TOURISM

While we were all locked down at home, the Granite Belt’s vignerons weren’t wasting time. Drought ravaged vineyards have been lovingly recovered, cellar doors have had a lick of paint and the precious few grapes salvaged from vintage 2020 have been turned into some truly remarkable wine.

The first few weeks after our visitors returned were hectic as everyone got used to operating under COVID Safe Industry plans.

The most noticeable change is that everyone needs to have a booking to ensure that they won’t be disappointed.

Whether it’s the cellar door or the restaurant, booking a few weeks in advance will guarantee you’ll be greeted with a warm smile and not a cold shoulder.

At this time of year the fireplaces are blazing in most cellar doors and as winter is a time for red wine, you’ll find at least one to suit every taste.

The tried and tested Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon are here, but there’s so many other exciting varieties to explore.

In recent years the Granite Belt has become known for its innovation and work with emerging varieties, or Strangebirds as the local know them.

From light and fruity Sangiovese, savoury Tempranillo, to a full bodied Petit Verdot there is sure to be a wine that will surprise and delight you.

The Georgian variety, Saperavi is one that’s earning a sparkling reputation particularly after two local examples from Ridgemill and Ballandean Estates scored gold medals at the Saperavi World Prize in Georgia.

Winter is a wonderful time to head to the Granite Belt for a taste of the great outdoors, the great food and wine, and, who knows, it might even snow!