It’s wholesome, absolutely gourmet and only a 3 hour drive from Brisbane. Trust me, Stanthorpe is well worth the drive! With its 40 cellar doors (that's right) and dotted cheese factories, you’re set for a delightful weekend of piggyness.
I headed to Stanthorpe to celebrate my 21st birthday, my partner (Florent) and I packed up the car with our essential winter woolies and an innumerable amount of nibbles. Having never been to Stanthorpe, I was keen to sample the regions apple cider and it seemed Florent was hoping to spot a kangaroo or 2. With this in mind, we hit the road via the New England Highway with our dodgy music selection and mandatory Minties.
As Stanthorpe drew closer, Florent and I were keen to pop by Vincenzo’s Deli to pick up some “essential” supplies. We were spoilt for choice with Vincenzo’s selection of relishes, cheeses and smoked meats. To play it safe, we opted for a creamy Belgium cheese and a generous serving of prosciutto. We were very pleased!
Our next stop was Ridgemill Estate, our “home away from home” for next 2 days. We were greeted by Jill who gave us all the ins and outs of Stanthorpe, she also encouraged us to pop by for a cheeky wine tasting later. Upon entering our secluded cabin, we spotted a promising bottle of rosé and canapés calling our name. With our nibbles, blazing fireplace and a bundle of magazines, we were set for an evening of relaxation.
At the crack of dawn…okay that was a lie, more like 8 o’clock we cooked up a storm with our breakfast basket (bacon, eggs, loaf of bread, yoghurt and apple juice). Having slept and eaten like a Princess (and Prince) we were eager to hit the town! Our 1st stop was Sutton’s Farm where we taste tested 6 different varieties of juices and ciders, we were surprised at how unique each one tasted. We snatched up a couple of bottles for our loved ones and hit the road again…
Since my moto is “keep calm and eat cheese” and Florent being French, our weekend wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Stanthorpe Cheese. Owner, Karen talked us through each cheese, condiment and dried meat possible. She knows her cheese! Our favourites were the curd style cheese, Thulimbah and surprisingly the Brass Monkey Blue.
Alluxia’s director, Sally Scott recommended the Barrel Room and all I can say is…thank you Sally! I opted for the house made gnocchi tossed with roast pumpkin, sage and burnt butter with a sprinkling of feta. To put it simply, it was divine. The cherry on top was our waitress with her pixie cut and million dollar smile, I don’t think I have had service like this in a long time.
Our afternoon was then spent cruising around here and there. I think both of us were just enjoying the fresh air and new surroundings. As evening hit, we headed back to Ridgemill Estate to whip out the camping chairs (located above the kitchen closet) to sit beneath the nights sky. It sounds cliché but it was a priceless moment.
After visiting Stanthorpe, I can easily say this is the place for old school hospitality and wholesome food. I’d encourage you to visit this historic town whether it be for some family fun or a romantic getaway. Alluxia has a handpicked collection that might tickle your fancy, click here.
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