Crane Wines Boutique Winery & B&B

Crane Wines Boutique Winery and B&B sit pretty as a picture high above the Booie Valley outside of Kingaroy.

Drive up the gravel driveway of Crane Wines and be greeted by netted vines, beautiful gardens, lush lawns, and a picturesque blue and white homestead. Step out of the car and receive a very friendly and enthusiastic welcome from the two "winery dogs", Bryn and Gizmo. The next warm welcome comes from co-owner, Judy as she tries to calm the excited pooches who clearly love company.

Crane Wines B&B accommodation is situated at the cellar door end of the old homestead (very convenient, indeed). Step inside the B&B and be transported back to another time, with fine bone china hanging from the kitchen dresser and beautiful antiques throughout that have come from generations of Judy's family. 

The two double rooms, aptly named "Wren" and "Rosella" have been furnished and decorated tastefully to continue the old world charm of the homestead. With a small lounge, kitchenette, dining table and good sized bathroom, the B&B is quaint and cosy, very comfortable and provides everything guests need for a relaxing stay. 

The makings of a continental breakfast are provided here and include: eggs, bread, yoghurt, fresh fruit, cereals, muesli, baked beans, spaghetti, juice, tea and coffee. BBQ breakfast and dinner packs and picnic baskets showcasing local gourmet produce (including a bottle of Crane bubbly) can be pre-ordered when booking and there is a BBQ near the cellar door for guests' use.

Whilst there is a TV, CD and DVD player, there's a much more enjoyable alternative to being glued to a screen. Off each bedroom is a lovely wide verandah which enjoys the best views of the Booie Valley. Outdoor furniture beckons to guests to pour a glass of wine, sit back and enjoy the view. 

And what a view it is! From the verandah, keep a lookout for the abundant birdlife and wildlife - and have a camera ready. Whether visiting in the warmer months or the cooler climes of autumn or winter, the view across the Booie Valley is sure to be breathtaking, with the colours of the patchwork fields changing seasonally. In sunshine or mist, the scene is one to savour.

There are many thoughtful little touches throughout the B&B and a generous selection of luxury toiletries are a real treat to use. A complimentary bottle of Crane wine awaits visitors and once that bottle has been enjoyed, it's just a short walk to the cellar door to restock. At the cellar door, bottles of red, white, sweet, dry, and sparkling wines can be purchased. Small bottles of champagne shots look intriguing and would make great gifts to take home. Judy also has a range of homemade gifts available. 

Judy's husband, Bernie, is the winemaker at Cranes and seems to have quite a reputation for smooth and delicious port. Guests have an opportunity to chat with Bernie about his handcrafted wines and the art of wine making. There's also a chance to sample his port from a crystal decanter with matching port glasses waiting on the kitchen dresser in the B&B.

Adjacent to the cellar door is a fabulous outdoor courtyard which also enjoys that stunning view of the valley.  Why not sit a while, soak up the view, enjoy a gourmet platter and partake of a glass or two - after all, there's no drive home to worry about.

Need to know - Mobile coverage is quite good, depending on carrier and free WIFI is available.

Five Must Do things to see and do nearby:

The Bunya Mountains are roughly a one hour drive away. Enjoy some bush walking and perhaps indulge in a Devonshire tea - how about trying Bunya nut scones?

Wander amongst the lavender in a Beatrix Potter style garden at Pottique Lavender Farm.

Visit the South Burnett Visitor Information Centre - opposite the iconic peanut silos.

Take a drive to Moffatdale Ridge Winery in Murgon and enjoy the rural scenery and sights along the way.

By Sandy Ludinski

Must Do Brisbane.com was a guest of Crane Wines Boutique Winery and B&B