12 Best Stanthorpe Wineries: Exploring the Granite Belt Wine Country

February 13, 2024 | By

Are you planning a trip to the Granite Belt Region and looking for the best wineries in Stanthorpe to add to your itinerary? You’ve come to the right place!

Queensland’s wine country is the perfect weekend escape that offers more than just gorgeous wines. From friendly locals to beautiful national parks, Stanthorpe is authentic country life at its best!

The Granite Belt wine region boasts over 50 wineries and cellar doors. These range from small boutique wineries to larger estates – but regardless of which you visit, you’ll experience different and delightful wines.

After spending a few days exploring the area, I’ve put together this comprehensive guide with the best Stanthorpe wineries to visit. It includes my top picks as well as the best places to stay.

11 Best Wineries in Stanthorpe
A lovely winter weekend exploring the wineries in Stanthorpe

About Stanthorpe wineries

Located 3 hours from Brisbane and Gold Coast, the Granite Belt region is fast becoming a leading wine producer in Australia.

The town of Stanthorpe sits in the heart of the wine country.

Nestled over 900 meters above sea level, it’s regarded as one of the highest-elevated wine districts in Australia. It’s also the coldest town in Queensland, so expect cosy winters and fresh mornings.

While Queensland is rarely known for its wine, the friendly winemakers of the granite belt are quickly changing that narrative.

Granite Belt wineries tasting
Tasting Strangebird wines at Summit Hills Estate

Summary of the best wineries in Stanthorpe

Best Stanthorpe wineries for sunsetBalancing Heart Wines and Summit Estate Wines
Overall best winesBoireann Winery, Ballandean Estate, Mountview Wines
Best wine tasting experienceRavenscroft Wines, Symphony Hills

Stanthorpe wineries map

The below Stanthorpe winery map highlights the location of the wineries as well as their proximity to Girraween National Park.

While Stanthorpe is a bigger town, a higher concentration of wineries are actually located in Ballandean (toward the south).

It’s about a 20-minute drive between Stanthorpe and Ballandean.

stanthorpe wineries map
There are so many wineries in Stanthorpe to choose from

best Stanthorpe wineries in the Granite Belt Region

Here are my top picks for the best wineries and places to go wine tasting in Stanthorpe. I planned my winery visits based on insider tips and recommendations from locals – and the selection could not have been better!

1. Mountview Wine: My favourite Stanthorpe winery

mountview wines in stanthorpe granite belt
Enjoying a wine tasting at Mountview Wines
  • Best for: Bloody Good Red
  • Expect: A cosy cellar door with unique decor
  • Location: Between Stanthorpe and Ballandean | Google Maps

With a crackling fireplace, quirky decor, and friendly owners, Mountview Wines gets my vote for the best winery in Stanthorpe.

It’s also one of the oldest wineries in the Granite Belt wine region and has an impressive selection of red and white varieties.

After spending the morning tasting all of their wines and chatting to the friendly owner, it was a struggle trying to decide on my favourite varietal. But I must say, their reds steal the show!

Their fastest-selling wine is the Bloody Good Red. After buying a few bottles, I can confirm that it lives up to its name! And while I’m not generally a fan of Port, their Mans Best Friend Port is also divine.

The wines at Mountview Wines are all priced under $30 a bottle, so it will be hard to leave without taking a few along with you!

2. Ravenscroft Vineyard

Views from the cellar door at Ravenscroft winery in Stanthorpe
Views from the cellar door at Ravenscroft Vineyard in Stanthorpe
  • Best for: Chardonnay
  • Expect: Beautiful vineyard views from the cellar door
  • Location: Stanthorpe | Google Maps

Ravenscroft Vineyard is a boutique Stanthorpe winery founded by award-winning winemaker Mark Ravenscroft.

Ownership of the vineyard has recently changed hands, and while Mark continues as principal winemaker, a young Aussie/British couple are the proud new owners of the estate.

They’re revamping the place and giving it a fresh look, and I can’t wait to see how it all comes together.

When it comes to their wines, they’re delicious! Their Strangebird varieties include Pinotage, A South African grape, which tasted just as I remembered it. (yep, I’m South African).

Their Chardonnay wasn’t on the tasting menu, but it’s absolutely spectacular! It’s slightly on the pricier side, but if you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Pino Grigio from Ravenscroft Wines is excellent and affordable.

The setting is equally impressive as the wines and the cellar door boasts beautiful views of the vineyards.

3. Ballandean Estate Wines

Ballandean Estate Wineries in Granite Belt
Ballandean Estate has the biggest selection of wines in the Granite Belt region
  • Best for: A wide selection of cool-climate wines
  • Expect: Lots of people but it’s a big place with plenty of areas for tastings
  • Location: Ballandean | Google Maps

When it comes to the best Granite Belt wineries, Ballandean Estate has to be the most popular. It’s Queensland’s oldest family-owned and operated winery, and wine has been produced here since 1932.

I was expecting a big, commercial operation, but after enjoying a top-notch tasting run by the owner, I’m pleased to say that Ballandean Estate still holds an authentic charm.

The tasting fee of $10 includes 6 tastings of any varietals.

From sparkling to whites, reds and fortified wines, there’s a lot to choose from! Their Stangebird Duriff was my favourite, while the Opera Block Shiraz and Cab Sav were right up there with some of the best wines I tasted over the weekend.

Their prices range from $25 – $65 a bottle so there’s something for everyone!

4. Summit Estate Wines

summit hills estate sunset stanthorpe wineries
Summit Estate Wines hosts sunset sessions every weekend
  • Best for: Sunset sessions
  • Expect: A large cellar door and great outdoor space
  • Location: North of Stanthorpe | Google Maps

Summit Estate Wines is the place to go for sunsets in Stanthorpe. With sweeping vineyard views and a magnificent sunset in the background, it’s not to be missed.

They host sunset sessions every Friday and Saturday from 4 pm where you can enjoy a picnic by the campfire. It’s a great atmosphere (and it’s dog- friendly.)

If you’ve forgotten your snacks at home, there are cheese boards on offer with plenty of yummy local produce.

I was also impressed with the quality of the wines from Summit Estate. With an extensive variety from sparkling to whites and reds, you won’t be left disappointed.

My favourite was the Wickerman Premium Shiraz and the Summit Estate Shiraz Cab Blend. Prices start at $20 per bottle and go as high as $65 for their flagship wines.

5. Symphony Hill Wines

Symphony Hills Winery in Stanthorpe
The tasting area at Symphony Hills Wines is modern and comfortable
  • Best for: Wide range of varieties from sparkling, whites and reds
  • Expect: A detailed wine tasting experience in a modern setting
  • Location: East of Ballandean | Google Maps

Symphony Hill Wines is yet another famous winery in Stanthorpe.

I loved their wines and the overall experience made it for me. Our host, James, was one of the most passionate, friendly, and entertaining people I’ve met, and his bubbly personality was infectious.

Their wines are also superb – well, they have to be considering they’re served on Qantas Business Class flights!

With over 16 terrific varieties to choose from, Symphony Hill Wines is one of the biggest producers of wine in the region.

I really enjoyed the Gewurtztraminer – but at $65 a bottle, I opted to take home the more affordable, yet delectable Prosecco Brut instead. They also have sweet wines which start at $25 a bottle but most of their wines range between $30-$65 a bottle.

The modern cellar door might not have the views but being surrounded by wine-making machinery and barrels makes up for it!

6. Boireann Winery

boireann winery
Boireann Winery has the best premium wines in Stanthorpe
  • Best for: Premium red wines
  • Expect: A personal tasting experience by an entertaining winemaker
  • Location: North of Stanthorpe | Google Maps

If you’re looking for the best Stanthorpe wineries that specialise in red varietals, I highly recommend Boireann Winery.

This hidden gem is situated in the northern Granite Belt Region, close to the Cheese Factory, Boireann is a small vineyard that packs a punch when it comes to its wines.

But they do come at a price with their estate wines costing $75 a bottle.

But, as I said, these were the best red wines that I had all weekend. If money was no object, I would have left with cases of The Lurnea. This deep mahogany red was out of this world so be sure to give it a try!

There are also more affordable reds on offer including a cab sav and shiraz. The grapes for these wines are brought in from other farms, but the same quality and care go into the wine-making process.

Overall, the wine tasting experience at Boireann was intimate and detailed. The winemaker has an interesting story of how he ended up in Stanthorpe and I thoroughly enjoyed his charismatic, friendly personality.

7. Balancing Heart Vineyard

Visiting Granite Belt Wineries
Stocked up on all my favourite Stanthorpe wines
  • Best for: Family-friendly atmosphere
  • Expect: Delicious pizza and sprawling vineyard views
  • Location: Close to Girraween National Park | Google Maps

Named after a granite rock formation of a balancing heart, Balancing Heart Vineyard is one of the most popular places to watch the sunset in Stanthorpe.

The gorgeous estate is located on the southern end of the Granite Belt and can easily be paired with a visit to Girraween National Park.

Balancing Heart Vineyard is one of the few wineries in Stanthorpe that offer food, so I recommend popping in for lunch or a sunset dinner. You’re not going to find better wood-fire pizzas in the region – pair this with a glass of their delicious wine and you’ll be on holiday mode in no time!

Like Summit Hills Wines, Balancing Heart Vineyard is pet-friendly and offers picturesque vineyard views.

It’s a great place to watch the sunset so I recommend ending your Stanthorpe winery tour here.

8. Twisted Gum Wines

twisted gum wines in stanthorpe
Twisted Gum Wines offers an intimate tasting experience. Image credit: Twisted Gum Wines
  • Best for: Sustainable wine making practices
  • Expect: An intimate and detailed tasting experience
  • Location: Ballandean | Google Maps

If you’re in search of a tranquil and intimate winery, Twisted Gum Wines is a perfect choice. Not only do they have a superb selection of wines, but the entire tasting experience is informative and educational.

Situated near Ballandean, their cellar door is located in a classic 1920s Queenslander with wrap-around verandahs.

You can taste any of their 6 varieties including Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Black Muscat, Chardonnay, Semillon or Verdelho.

Twisted Gum Wines are also known for its sustainable winemaking practices. The grapes are pruned and picked by hand and minimal irrigation is used.

They also have a cottage available on the property – it’s the original farmhouse that sleeps up to 6 people and boasts a beautiful outdoor area.

9. Pyramid Road Wines

Boutique wineries in Stanthorpe
Pyramid Road Wines may be a small winery but it’s very popular
  • Best for: Their Strangebird Petit Verdot and Mourvedre
  • Expect: A boutique winery with a big cellar door filled with character
  • Location: Close to Girraween National Park | Google Maps

2024 Update: Pyramid Road Wines have let me know that their stocks typically run low at the beginning of the year (January- March). They will be opening again from Easter.

Only a stone’s throw away from Girraween National Park lies Pyramid Road Wines. The dynamic husband and wife team bought the estate in 1999 and have since transformed it into one of the best Stanthorpe vineyards.

The cellar door is rustic and charming and the bustling fireplace in the corner will keep you warm on those cold winter days.

With mostly reds on offer, their Mourvedre is delish, and so is their Petit Verdot. This was my first time tasing both these varietals and I was impressed!

When it comes to the pricing, Pyramid Road Wines is well-priced with most bottles costings between $30 – $50.

10. Ridgemill Estate

vineyards in stanthorpe
  • Best for: Winery accommodation (View here)
  • Expect: A friendly, local experience
  • Location: Stanthorpe | Google Maps

Ridgemill Estate is home to the Granite Belt’s oldest Tempranillo and Saperavi vines. The vineyard has a picturesque and quiet setting with a relaxed vibe.

They offer grazing boards and picnic baskets which you can enjoy with your wine tasting. And to top it off, their winery accommodation is set amongst the vineyards.

11. Granite Ridge Wines

Tasting at Granite Ridge Estate wines
The tasting area at Granite Ridge Wines
  • Best for: Granite Rock Shiraz
  • Expect: A beautiful shop front and small tasting area among the machinery
  • Location: Ballandean | Google Maps

Granite Ridge Wines is another popular winery in Stanthorpe. The small shop front is quaint and filled with character. The tastings are done in the back amongst the wine-making machinery.

The wines are excellent (and affordable).

Granite Ridge has a variety of whites and reds as well as sweet wines and fortified options. People from our tour were raving about the sweet varieties and fortified wine, but I preferred the Granite Rock Shiraz.

It’s a hard call but Granite Ridge Wines was my least-favourite winery in Stanthorpe.

After visiting so many others, all of which were intimate and personable, I found the tasting experience here to be a bit rushed. Perhaps it’s because it was the second last stop of the day? Or maybe the other wineries were just so incredible that this one didn’t live up to the high standard the others had set.

12. Girraween Estate Wines (Closed)

Girraween Estate winery Granite Belt
Girraween Estate may be a tiny winery but the tasting hosted by the winemaker is exceptional
  • Best for: Sparkling and white varietals
  • Expect: Small cellar door but unmatched tasting experience
  • Location: Close to Girraween National Park | Google Maps

2024 Update: The owners of Girraween Estate Wines have retired and have sadly closed their winery in Stanthorpe.

Girraween Estate Wines is another winery in Stanthorpe that offers an exceptional tasting experience.

While the cellar door may not be as big as others in the region, the husband and wife duo are totally smashing all winery goals. From growing the grapes to making the wine, bottling, and selling, they do it all!

Located on the south end of Stanthorpe, close to Girraween National Park, Girraween Estate Wines has beautiful sparkling wines that are perfect for a hot summer’s day by the pool! The owner is a passionate winemaker, and the quality of his wines demonstrates this.

My favourite was the Sparkling Special Cuvee, but the Sparkling Rose was also a hit with visitors on our tour. The Sauvignon Blac and Shiraz were equally as impressive. All of these are priced under $30, so it’s a steal if you’re looking to stock up on wine at home.

The tasting experience is authentic and set up among the wine barrels and machinery.

Not only do you get to taste 7 high-quality wines, but you get to enjoy the company of the winemaker, who has a great sense of humour and interesting stories to share.

How to plan your Stanthorpe wine tour

The best granite belt winery in stanthorpe
What a fun weekend in Stanthorpe

I highly recommend booking a wine tour which will take you to all the best Stanthorpe wineries.

I booked my tour through Granite Highlands Maxi Tours, and they were fantastic. The tour cost $120 per person and includes a mouth-watering lunch.

Filippo’s Tours also came highly recommended. If you’re looking for a private or luxury wine tour with fewer people, then Wine Discovery Tours is a great option.

Strangebird Wines from Granite Belt Wineries

The wineries near Stanthorpe are more commonly known for their Strangebird wines, which are alternative varieties.

To be classified as such, they cannot represent more than 1% of the total bearing vines in Australia.

White varietals of Strangebird include Chenin Blanc, Verdelho, and Viognier, while the reds consist of Tempranillo, Malbec, Petit Verdot, and Pinotage.

If you’ve never heard of the term Strangebird, you’ll know all about it after your trip to Stanthorpe. There’s even a Strangebird Wine Trail, which will quench your desire for something new and unique.

Where to stay in Stanthorpe

winter in stanthorpe
The vineyard at Boireann Winery in Stanthorpe

While many people choose to stay in Stanthorpe, I recommend booking a place closer to Ballandean. This is a tiny town surrounded by numerous wineries and an ideal location for your visit to the Granite Belt.

Granite Gardens Cottages and Lake Retreat: Granite Gardens Cottage is located on a large property between Ballandean and Stanthorpe. The self-contained cottages are nestled on the edge of a lake and feature indoor fireplaces and large living areas. Some cottages are pet-friendly so you can bring your furry friends along with you!

R & R on The Ravine: Idyllic setting. Beautiful views. Crackling fires. R&R on the Ravine is the perfect place to escape to in the countryside. Situated south of Stanthorpe, the property boasts comfy spaces as well as a fireplace – and you’re going to love this in winter!

Granite Belt Retreat: Ideally situated next to the Granite Belt Brewery lies Granite Belt Retreat. Set on 30 acres of natural bushland, each wooden cabin is surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a great option for families yet offers a romantic retreat for couples. And yes, each cabin comes fitted with a cosy fireplace.

Browse all Stanthorpe accommodation here


Are you planning your trip to the Granite Belt wineries? Hit me up with any questions in the comments section below.

Looking to explore Australia? Check out my other posts

This post contains affiliate links; if you make a purchase through them, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support.

Carryn Beard Author Bio

About Me

Hi, I'm Carryn. Travel junkie. Nature enthusiast. Adventurer. I'm a South African expat living in Gold Coast, Australia. Join me as I explore the land down under and share stories of the best that Australia has to offer. Find out more about me here.

2 thoughts on “12 Best Stanthorpe Wineries: Exploring the Granite Belt Wine Country”

  1. Thanks so much for the great info!! We’re off to Stanthorpe next week and your tips are so handy, especially the great wine picks and dog friendly places. Thanks heaps!

    Reply

Leave a comment