Queensland might be famous for its sunny beaches and lush rainforests, but it’s also a surprisingly good destination for wine lovers. The Scenic Rim and Stanthorpe regions produce some notable wines, often overlooked compared to Australia’s more famous wine regions like Barossa or Margaret River. What makes Queensland particularly appealing is its mix of intimate private tours, casual tastings, and luxury experiences—perfect for travelers with varied interests and budgets. I’m especially fond of the Full-Day Private Wine Tour of the Stanthorpe Area with Lunch because it combines personalized attention, tasting local wines you can’t get elsewhere, and a scenic drive through sunflower fields. Plus, the chance to meet winemakers makes it a genuine treat.
If you’re after something more luxurious, the Gold Coast: Private Winery Tour in a New Luxury Vehicle offers a slick, guided experience with gourmet food and scenic stops. For those who prefer an unstructured, fun tasting session, the Casual Wine Tasting provides an easy, low-cost way to sample innovative wines. Whichever you choose, Queensland’s wine scene offers surprises and delights that make the trip well worth it.
1. Full-Day Private Wine Tour of the Stanthorpe Area with Lunch
This full-day private wine tour is the top choice for those who want a deep dive into Queensland’s Granite Belt wine scene. For around $229.52 per person, you get 10 hours of personalized touring, visiting four well-known wineries. The tour highlights include a drive along the ‘Sunflower Route’, which is lined with roadside sunflower fields—great for photos. You’ll also get the rare chance to meet with winemakers privately and taste wines not available to the public.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility. The private setup means it can be tailored to your interests, whether you’re more into reds or whites, or interested in learning about viticulture. The itinerary includes a visit to KOMINOS Wines, where Tony and Anna share their 30+ years of experience, and to Ballandean Estate Wines, the oldest winery in the area, dating back to 1932. The tour includes morning tea, lunch, and snacks, making it a full, satisfying day. Guests often comment on the friendly guides and the intimate experience that larger group tours can’t match. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts who want a behind-the-scenes look and a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: For personalized attention and a taste of Queensland’s best wines with delicious food, this private tour offers a comprehensive, flexible experience. Best suited for couples or small groups wanting an in-depth, tailored day.
2. Gold Coast: Private Winery Tour in a New Luxury Vehicle
If you’re after a more upscale, luxury experience, this private winery tour in the Scenic Rim is hard to beat. For $1,052 per group (up to two people), it offers eight hours of guided tastings at award-winning wineries, with the comfort of a new luxury vehicle. This is a great pick for travelers who want a combination of premium service, scenic stops, and gourmet food.
The tour features guided tastings at each winery, cheese platters, chocolates, bubbly, and a two-course gourmet lunch prepared by an award-winning chef. Along the way, you’ll stop at scenic lookouts and explore local shops, making it an engaging day out. The small group setting ensures a personalized experience, suitable for families and children, which is often rare in the wine tour world. The guides are knowledgeable, and the vehicle’s comfort adds a touch of class to the day.
Guests appreciate the attention to detail and the chance to relax and enjoy Queensland’s best wines without worrying about driving. This tour shines for those wanting a luxury escape, perfect for celebrating a special occasion or a romantic day out.
Bottom Line: If budget is less of a concern and you want the best of the Scenic Rim’s wineries with style, this luxury tour is a top pick. Ideal for couples or small groups seeking comfort and exclusivity.
3. Casual Wine Tasting
For those who want a low-cost, informal experience, the Casual Wine Tasting offers a relaxed introduction to Australia’s innovative wine styles. At just $6.75 per person, it lasts about an hour and a half, making it an easy add-on to your trip or a quick way to dip your toes into Queensland wine.
What makes this tasting stand out is its focus on minimal intervention wines, including sherry-style wines aged under flor yeast and Saperavi matured in Georgian terracotta qvevri. It’s a mini-masterclass that showcases contemporary and experimental techniques. The tasting is intimate and guided, perfect for those curious about wine innovation or just wanting a fun, short experience. While it doesn’t have reviews yet, its affordability and focus on interesting, lesser-known wines make it appealing for adventurous wine lovers.
This experience is best suited for casual visitors, students, or anyone on a budget who still wants to learn and taste something different. Keep in mind, it’s more of a tasting session than a full vineyard tour, so it’s ideal as a complement to other activities.
Bottom Line: For a quick, inexpensive, and intriguing wine experience, this tasting provides a fascinating look at Australia’s modern wine scene without breaking the bank.
How to Choose the Best Queensland Wine Tour for You
When deciding between these options, think about your budget, time, and what kind of experience you want. If you prefer a personalized, full-day adventure with local cuisine, the Stanthorpe private tour offers excellent value. For a luxury, hassle-free day with gourmet foods and scenic stops, the Gold Coast luxury tour is a perfect choice. If your goal is a quick, budget-friendly introduction to innovative wines, the casual tasting provide a fun, informative session.
Consider your group’s size, interests, and whether you want a full-day, luxury, or short experience. For more detailed planning, check the tour descriptions and decide what fits your itinerary and style best. Booking early is advisable, especially for the luxury tour, which is popular.
Final Thoughts
Queensland’s wine scene may not be as famous as other Australian regions, but these tours demonstrate the quality and diversity of its offerings. The full-day private tour is great for deep dives and personalized experiences, while the luxury tour promises comfort and exclusivity. For a quick taste and a peek at innovative styles, the casual tasting is a fun and affordable option. Whichever you pick, you’ll enjoy discovering a lesser-known side of Australia’s wine country—and make some memorable sips along the way. Don’t forget to book early, as these experiences tend to fill up, especially during peak seasons.