Queensland might be famous for its sunny beaches and lush landscapes, but it also offers some exceptional wine touring opportunities. The region around Stanthorpe, with its impressive viticultural history and scenic countryside, stands out as a key destination. We especially like tours that combine private experiences with local storytelling—like the Full-Day Private Wine Tour of the Stanthorpe Area with Lunch. This tour is perfect for those wanting a personalized day among vineyards, with the chance to meet winemakers and taste exclusive wines. Meanwhile, the Gold Coast’s Scenic Rim offers a more luxurious, guided experience that includes a gourmet lunch and scenic stops—ideal for a special occasion or a relaxing day out. Lastly, for those curious about Australian wine styles, a Casual Wine Tasting provides an intimate, educational look at innovative and experimental wines in a smaller setting.
Quick Overview
This list covers a range of wine experiences in Queensland, from comprehensive private tours to casual tastings. The Full-Day Private Wine Tour of Stanthorpe is ideal for enthusiasts seeking an in-depth, personalized experience. The Gold Coast private winery tour offers luxury with guided tastings and a gourmet lunch in a scenic landscape. For a lighter, more educational experience, the Casual Wine Tasting introduces you to Australia’s modern and historical wine styles. Now, let’s explore each of these in detail.
1. Full-Day Private Wine Tour of the Stanthorpe Area with Lunch
At number 1, this Full-Day Private Wine Tour of the Stanthorpe Area with Lunch is a standout for its personalized approach. With approximately 10 hours, it includes visits to four well-known wineries, sampling local wines and learning about the region’s viticultural history. What makes this tour special is the private setting—meaning it can be tailored to your interests, whether you want to focus on specific wineries or types of wine.
Highlights include a drive along the Sunflower Route, famous for roadside sunflower fields, and stops at historic sites like the Mary Poppins house in Warwick. You’ll enjoy morning tea, lunch, and snacks, making it a full-day treat. At Kominos Wines, owners Tony and Anna will give you a private presentation on their 30+ years of experience, making the tasting more personal. The Ballandean Estate Wines is the oldest winery in the region, with five generations of the Puglisi family behind it, offering a chance to taste wines in a private room. The final stop, Symphony Hill Winery, boasts a barrel room perfect for savoring their handcrafted wines.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for wine lovers who want an intimate, flexible experience with private tastings, excellent food, and a chance to meet winemakers. It’s great value at around $217 per person, especially for those who appreciate a deep dive into regional wines.
2. Gold Coast: Private Winery Tour in a New Luxury Vehicle
Coming in at number 2, this Gold Coast: Private Winery Tour in a New Luxury Vehicle delivers a high-end experience. For about $1,052 per group (up to 2 people), you’ll enjoy a luxury vehicle and a full 8-hour day exploring Scenic Rim’s award-winning wineries. The tour features guided tastings at multiple wineries, where you can sample some of Queensland’s best wines, complemented by cheese platters, chocolates, and bubbles.
One of the most appealing aspects is the two-course gourmet lunch prepared by an award-winning chef, making this perfect for special occasions or those wanting a pampered day out. The tour also includes stops at scenic lookouts and shopping spots, adding a touch of sightseeing beyond the vineyards. It’s suitable for families and children, making it a flexible choice.
This tour stands out for its luxurious transport, expert guidance, and fine dining. reviews highlight the quality of the experience, with a perfect 5/5 rating. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, upscale day in the vineyards without the hassle of planning.
Bottom Line: If budget isn’t a concern and you seek a luxurious, all-inclusive experience, this private winery tour offers superb value for its premium service and beautiful scenery.
$1,052 per group up to 2
3. Casual Wine Tasting
At the bottom of the list, the Casual Wine Tasting offers a more informal, but equally interesting experience. For just $6.75 per person, you get approximately 1.5 hours of guided tastings showcasing Australia’s innovative and eclectic wine styles. This experience focuses on minimal intervention wines, including sherry-style wines aged under flor yeast and bold Saperavi aged in Georgian terracotta qvevri.
What makes this experience compelling is its focus on modern and experimental wines—perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to explore beyond the usual. Since it’s a small, intimate setting, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and learn about alternative winemaking techniques. While it doesn’t include food, it’s a fantastic introduction to Australia’s creative wine scene without a hefty price tag.
Bottom Line: Best suited for curious wine lovers interested in learning about experimental styles or anyone short on time but wanting a taste of Australia’s innovative wines.
$6.75 per person
How to Choose
When selecting a wine tour in Queensland, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you want a comprehensive, private experience with personalized tastings, the Full-Day Private Wine Tour of Stanthorpe offers excellent value. For those craving luxury and a gourmet meal, the Gold Coast private winery tour provides a high-end, guided day that covers scenic stops and fine dining. If your main goal is to explore innovative wine styles on a budget, the Casual Wine Tasting is an accessible, educational option.
Timing is also key—most tours operate year-round, but cooler months typically provide better conditions for vineyard visits. Booking early is advisable, especially for private or luxury options, to secure your preferred date.
Queensland’s wine scene offers a surprising variety, from private vineyard encounters to experimental tastings. For a full immersion, the Stanthorpe private tour delivers depth and personal connection. For a luxurious day with gourmet touches, the Gold Coast experience hits all the high notes. And for a quick, educational taste of Australian innovation, the casual tasting is hard to beat at its price.
No matter your style or budget, these tours promise a rewarding look at Queensland’s wines. Be sure to plan ahead and book early—these experiences fill up fast and are worth the anticipation. Cheers to your next wine adventure in Queensland!