Queen gets taste of the Granite Belt
ASIDE from her airs and graces, it would seem Her Majesty the Queen also has a good nose for quality wine.
For what is believed to be the first time, three wines from the Granite Belt were served to Queen Elizabeth II at a function in Brisbane yesterday for flood victims.
A verdelho and sparkling chardonnay from Robert Channon Wines, as well as Golden Grove's 2009 tempranillo, were selected for the function, which was also attended by Governor General Quentin Bryce and Prince Phillip.
Former Englishman Robert Channon said he was "delighted and thrilled" to have his wine selected.
"I can't remember when she was last here, but I'd be very surprised if there'd been a previous function where Granite Belt wine was served," he said. "We don't know much about the selection process and how we came to be chosen, but it's a recognition of the region's quality and really helps the Granite Belt to establish itself."
Mr Channon said he knew nothing of Her Majesty's drinking habits, but hoped she would try some of the local wine.
When Sam and Grace Costanzo received the call of good news, the family had to scurry around to collect enough bottles of wine to send down.
"Luckily we found one of the local outlets still had some left and we also had some put away," Mrs Costanzo said.
"We had also given some to staff which we had to ask nicely if we could have back - of course we replaced it!"
Mrs Costanzo said the selection was great for the winery and district, and only strengthened the reputation of the Granite Belt.
"It's cementing what we already know, and proves that the Granite Belt is the premier district of Queensland - that's no disrespect for any other regions, but this is what we've worked so hard for."