Drop Of The Week
The Granite Belt
Having skipped across the Granite Belt numerous times, I often wonder what it was about these soils that deliver some great wines. Some vineyards look like a granite kitchen bench top smashed up into fine pieces with a grape vine growing out of it. Poor soils on the face of it indeed. But further to that, which variety can be hung as the flagship of the region?
Up until now, many varietals have done well on the Granite Belt but none commanding the respect as number one. Think about it - the Yarra Valley has Pinot, Barossa hangs its hat on Shiraz, Margaret River is synonymous with Cabernet, Hunter's king is Semillon, and the Clare Valley has Riesling. I could go on. Shiraz, Cabernet and Chardonnay all perform well on the Granite Belt as do others. Then there are the alternate varieties which are steadily gaining ground. By these I mean whites like Fiano and reds such as Tempranillo and Barbera to name but a few.
The Granite Belt is an emerging region in many respects which is slowly breaking down the barriers that Queensland cannot produce quality wine. Honestly, you think of Queensland and vivid images of beaches and stinking hot summers washed down with a cold ale or three come to mind. What many don't realise is that the Granite Belt has some of the highest altitude vineyards in Australia with perched just beyond 900 metres above sea level.
And let’s not forget the South Burnett region. About three hours north-west of Brisbane you can find a climate similar to that of the Hunter Valley. That is, cool nights and warm days. No wonder Shiraz and Semillon perform well there as does Verdelho.
Like all regions, there is some tooth paste wash, to put it nicely, amongst them. Every region has them, let's be realistic about it. But there are also some gems emerging. Lots of them. Classy and innovative winemakers are bringing a new brand of wine to be discovered for the punters to stand up and take note.
Queensland wine is gaining some serious traction. Head to independent retailers such as Wine Experience at Rosalie, Craft Wine Store at Red Hill, Cru Bar and the Wine Emporium in the Valley to name a few who stock a good range of Queensland wines. Keep an eye out on some of the state’s best restaurant wine lists too.
Ridgemill Estate Riesling 2013 $18
Riesling is certainly not a variety you'd assume would prosper on the Granite Belt but this has taken a stand. Citrusy with white flower aromas, the wine is quite textural yet clean and pure. Flavours are persistent with a squeeze of lime rushing in right at the death. Well priced and something you could wash down with your Thai.
On pour at Aria, Wild Canary and Blackbird restaurants.
Barambah First Grid Verdelho 2013 $21
This is Verdelho but not as you know it. From the South Burnett region, some pressings and solids have been used to give this a little kick, and damn, it has worked a treat. Textural, vibrant and refreshing. Think a dash of lemon, green mango and even some dried pineapple. Some typical Verdelho spice on finish with a good length. The palate weight was the attractive feature for me. Certainly not the squeaky clean type most Verdelhos deliver.
Ballandean Estate Shiraz Viognier 2012 $20
This is a stunning cool climate wine. Medium bodied, it is succulent and elegant. Lovely fruit which is juicy and then some. The use of 4% Viognier has given the wine a subtle floral lift. An outrageous bargain.
Pyramids Road Shiraz 2012 $30
Only 170 dozen were produced from this small, hands on Granite Belt producer. All fruit is estate grown and hand picked. Some elegant dark cherry and black fruits characters which are soft and melt in the mouth. There’s a little spice tickle on an engaging long finish. The best Shiraz produced by Pyramids Road to date and well worth the money.
by Steve from QWine
