Strange Bird Flight of 3 Wine & Cheese

Introduction

Imagine sitting comfortably among lush vines, enjoying a curated flight of unusual wines paired with delicious regional cheeses. That’s exactly what the Strange Bird Flight of 3 Wine & Cheese offers—a relaxed, intimate tasting experience that showcases some of the most intriguing varieties from Australia’s Granite Belt. Perfect for couples or friends wanting a peaceful escape, this experience combines good wine, tasty snacks, and beautiful scenery in one affordable package.

What makes this tour stand out? Firstly, it features award-winning wines that highlight the region’s innovative approach to viticulture. Secondly, the gourmet cheese platter introduces you to local products, making it a true taste of the Granite Belt’s culinary craftsmanship. Thirdly, the setting—sitting amongst the vines at Ridgemill Estate—means you’ll enjoy a peaceful, scenic backdrop for your tasting. The only thing to keep in mind is that this experience doesn’t include transport, so it’s best suited for those who can easily arrive on-site. This is a fantastic choice for wine lovers eager to explore Australia’s alternative wine scene in a relaxed, authentic way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique Wines: Features a flight of three Strange Bird varietals, showcasing the region’s innovative and lesser-known wines.
• Beautiful Setting: Tasting amongst the vines at Ridgemill Estate offers a memorable, scenic experience.
• Gourmet Cheese Platter: Enjoy a generous selection of local cheeses, complemented by regional condiments.
• Educational & Relaxed: Learn about the region’s strange wines while relaxing in stylish surrounds.
• Affordable Price: At just $23 per person, it offers a balanced combination of quality and value.
• Self-Guided Experience: You control the pace, exploring your flight and tasting at leisure.

The Experience in Detail

The Setting and Arrival

Your journey begins at the Cellar Door of Ridgemill Estate, a peaceful spot that sets the tone for a laid-back exploration of wine and cheese. While the tour doesn’t include transport, arriving here is straightforward for those staying nearby or driving. The estate is known for its beautiful vineyard views, and you’ll likely notice the rolling hills and lush vines that make this part of the Southern Downs so appealing.

Guests typically come with a sense of anticipation—expect a personalized experience with a table set just for you amid the vines, offering a picturesque backdrop that’s perfect for photos. The setting is stylish yet unpretentious, making it clear that this experience values authenticity over formality.

The Tasting Flight: Discovering Strange Birds

The heart of the experience is the self-guided flight of three wines from the Strange Bird collection, each poured in 80ml glasses. These wines embrace the estate’s philosophy of celebrating alternative or lesser-known grape varieties—aptly called “strange birds.” The selection changes, but you might find yourself tasting wines like Saperavi, Tempranillo, Viognier, or Verdelho.

What’s special here? The wines aren’t your everyday options. They’re crafted by Pete McGlashan, the estate’s winemaker, who co-founded the Strange Bird trail after a casual Sunday beer. These wines challenge the usual expectations and highlight the region’s innovative spirit. Many reviewers note that the flights are well-curated and offer a chance to explore something different from the mainstream Australian wines.

Guests have expressed that the pairing of these wines with regional cheeses enhances the tasting. The wines often have complex flavor profiles, making each sip an intriguing experience. One visitor remarked, “The wines were surprising and delightful, showing how diverse and exciting these alternate varieties can be.”

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The Cheese Platter

Alongside the wine flight, you’ll be served a generous cheese platter featuring two local Stanthorpe cheeses, complemented by Jamworks chutney, dried fruits, and olives. The cheeses are described as regional staples, providing a perfect balance to the wines’ more adventurous profiles.

Many reviewers appreciate that the platter is plentiful and thoughtfully curated, giving a true taste of local flavors. The pairing encourages relaxed conversation and savoring, rather than rushing through. The selection of condiments helps to elevate the experience, making even simple cheeses feel special.

The Environment and Atmosphere

One of the biggest draws is the setting—sitting amongst the vines with a glass in hand and panoramic vistas stretching out before you. The environment is designed for comfort and enjoyment, with stylish but understated decor, allowing you to focus on the wines and company.

Guests have described the experience as calm and scenic, with many noting that the views alone make it worth the visit. The estate’s friendly staff and attention to detail enhance the feeling of being treated to something special, even if it’s a casual, self-guided tasting.

Practical Details and Value

Priced at only $23 per person, the Strange Bird Flight offers notable value. This fee covers the three wine samples and the cheese platter, making it an affordable indulgence for wine lovers. Since it’s self-guided, you can take your time, savoring each sip and nibble at your own pace.

However, it’s important to note that transportation isn’t included. Visitors should plan to arrive by car or arrange their own transport, which could be a consideration for those staying farther away. The experience is generally available in the morning and afternoon, giving flexibility to fit into your schedule.

The experience is accessible for wheelchairs, and the staff are accommodating. You’re asked to bring your driver’s license for ID purposes, and there are a few restrictions—no smoking, no alcohol or drugs (other than your tasting), no barefoot walking, and no intoxication.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts eager to discover regional and unconventional varieties. It’s ideal for couples looking for a romantic, scenic escape, or friends wanting a relaxed, educational outing. The focus on local cheeses also makes it appealing for those interested in regional produce.

It’s perfect for visitors who prefer self-guided, unhurried experiences without the fuss of large groups. If you enjoy tasting wines at your own pace while soaking in stunning vineyard views, this is a great fit. Just keep in mind you’ll need your own transport, as this isn’t a guided tour with pickup.

The Sum Up

The Strange Bird Flight of 3 Wine & Cheese from Ridgemill Estate offers a thoughtful, enjoyable introduction to the innovative side of Australian wine. It combines scenic beauty, unique wine varieties, and local cheese into a relaxed, affordable package. This experience is perfect for those who appreciate authentic flavors and a peaceful environment, all while learning about the region’s strange birds—the quirky, lesser-known grapes that are changing perceptions of Australian wine.

If you’re after a casual, intimate tasting that’s rich in local character and stunning scenery, this fits the bill beautifully. It’s a low-pressure way to explore the Granite Belt’s vibrant alternative wine scene, making it a worthwhile addition to your wine touring plans.

FAQ

Do I need to make a reservation?
Yes, bookings are recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy periods, as the experience is typically scheduled in the morning or afternoon.

Is the experience suitable for children or pregnant women?
No. The tour is not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women, mainly because it involves wine tasting.

Are there any transportation options included?
No, transportation isn’t provided, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to arrive at the Cellar Door.

How long does the experience last?
It runs for approximately 1.5 hours, giving enough time to enjoy the wines and cheese without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license for ID purposes. No need to bring anything else, as glasses and cheese are provided.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the estate welcomes wheelchair users, ensuring everyone can enjoy the views and tasting comfortably.

Can I purchase additional wines or food?
The tour includes a fixed tasting and cheese platter; additional purchases might be available at the estate, but specifics aren’t detailed.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

In essence, the Strange Bird Flight at Ridgemill Estate offers a charming, relaxed taste of the Granite Belt’s innovative wines and local cheeses. It’s well worth considering if you’re seeking a peaceful, authentic experience that combines scenic views with a true taste of regional craft.

You can check availability for your dates here: