Here’s Cheers
I have always been proud to be a daughter of the Sunshine State but I must admit my loyalty only goes so far. When it comes to wine, I generally steer well clear of a Queensland grown drop. After all, how can you compete with a Barossa Shiraz or a Limestone Coast Chardonnay. Well, now I’ve been introduced to a Childers Chambourcin and I stand corrected!
I recently stumbled on a little boutique winery, Brierley Wines, nestled behind the picturesque town of Childers. Apparently the chambourcin (sham-bor-sun) variety of grape is so well-suited to the area, there is no need for chemical pesticides or fungicides. The result is a variety of lovingly hand-grown, hand-picked and hand-produced wines. Add to this the extremely high levels of antioxidants in Chambourcin wine and you really can’t go wrong.
Tony and Sue Brierley have recently opened their cellar door to the public. Their country hospitality coupled with their professionalism makes this little winery one class act. They currently produce several varieties of wine including a bubbly, a port and a very trendy Semillon Chardonnay.
Their most popular wine, however, is the sweet Chambourcin. Designed to be served chilled, this wine is full-flavoured and sweet but with the body and finish of a more serious red. As such it is the perfect accompaniment to spicy meals and seafood. Tony calls this wine “The Beginner’s Wine” as even non-wine drinkers seem to find this one extremely palatable.
Keep an eye out for Brierley Wines’ official opening in winter as well as upcoming events including cooking demonstrations by Dan the Demo Chef and “Settle-In Sundays”, with live music, food and buses running from Hervey Bay and Bundaberg.
For more information, contact Sue on (07) 4126 1297 or visit the website, www.brierleywines.com
