WITH autumn not far off tourism operators are already planning activities to showcase the colour and the cool crisp air of the Granite Belt.
The popular Sunset Vineyard Walks this autumn at Twisted Gum Wines in Ballandean, will appeal to wine lovers, with the first scheduled for Saturday 22 March.
The walks are very relaxed and informal, with Tim and Michelle Coelli taking a small group on a leisurely stroll through their picturesque, hand-tended vineyard.
“You can admire the rich autumn colours of the vines set among stunning granite boulders and impressive twisted gum trees, while discussing how to grow, prune and harvest grape vines so that they produce the highest quality wines possible,” Mr Coelli said.
The couple opt for sustainable vineyard practices, involving the use of birdlife to replace pesticides and careful mulching instead of irrigation.
The walks end at the cellar door of a classic 1920s Queenslander to enjoy a guided tasting of single vineyard, dry grown Twisted Gum Wines matched with local artisan cheeses on the veranda as the sun sets.
“We held our Sunset Vineyard Walks for the first time last spring, and we were really pleased with how they went.” Michelle Coelli said.
“Everyone was very friendly and enthusiastic and by the end of the walk the entire group was asking lots of questions and chatting happily.”
“We then returned to the cellar door and had lots of fun sampling various cheeses with our wines and deciding upon the best matches.
The walks, from 4pm until sunset are planned for 22 March, 5 April and 10 May and cost $25.
Contact Tim and Michelle on (07) 46841282 or email info@twistedgum.com.au for bookings.
