Best of Queensland nod to Mountain Wine Tours

Moreton Bay-based Mountain Wine Tours has been included in the Best of Queensland Experiences program for the second year in a row in recognition of its exceptional offerings in wine tourism.

The Best of Queensland Experiences is an official recognition program, managed by Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ) and aims to highlight businesses consistently delivering first-rate experiences to visitors.

Mountain Wine Tours’ Karen Hellsten says the company continues to evolve, consistently adapting to industry trends by incorporating local produce, boutique spirits, and craft beer into its experiences.

“This ongoing commitment to showcasing the diverse and growing flavours of South East Queensland aligns with the program’s focus on delivering high-quality, authentic, and memorable visitor experiences,” she says.

Making it onto the list is no easy task with strict evaluation criteria covering customer reviews and satisfaction; engagement on social media; quality assurance; and adherence to ‘Queensland’s values’ including a commitment to sustainable tourism and positive community impact.

Businesses must also meet or exceed customer expectations consistently over time.

The program is overseen by Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), and there is a dedicated panel to evaluate and select the top performers.

“Being included in the Best of Queensland Experiences program will help Mountain Wine Tours by increasing visibility, enhancing credibility, and providing access to marketing support from Tourism and Events Queensland,” Karen explains.

“It will also strengthen the business’s reputation, attract more quality guests, and create growth opportunities through new partnerships and broader exposure. This recognition can ultimately lead to more bookings and a stronger presence in the tourism industry.”

Making memorable experiences

Mountain Wine Tours has been operating since 2013 and offers a range of tours, including:

• Wine tours – Focused on local wineries.

• Craft beer and spirits tours – Featuring craft breweries and distilleries.

• Combination tours – A mix of wine, beer, and spirits tastings.

• Private and custom tours – Tailored experiences based on guest preferences.

“Mountain Wine Tours offers a special experience with small-group, personalised tours that focus on local wines, craft beers, and boutique spirits. Guests enjoy intimate access to stunning scenic locations, local vineyards, and behind-the-scenes insights from the makers themselves,” Karen says.

“The tours highlight South East Queensland's unique culture and produce, offering a hands-on, educational experience while supporting regional businesses. It’s a blend of expert knowledge, beautiful landscapes, and a deep connection to the area’s artisanal traditions.

“What we love most about hosting wine tours is the opportunity to share the beauty and culture of South East Queensland, connect with guests, and introduce them to local wines.

“Seeing guests enjoying the experience, building relationships, and sharing a passion for the region’s wines and produce makes it incredibly rewarding.”

In addition to wine tours, the team has expanded its services to include wedding transfers, offering personalised transport for wedding parties and guests to ensure a seamless experience.

“We've also partnered with local businesses in the region to assist with their transfer needs, helping to create a more connected and convenient service for the community,” Karen says.

“These additions allow us to offer even greater flexibility and cater to a wider range of special occasions while maintaining the same exceptional service and attention to detail that our wine tours are known for.”

In the spotlight

• 2024 - Finalist in Moreton Bay Business & Innovation Awards Tourism Business Excellence
• 2024 - Finalist in Moreton Bay Business & Innovation Awards Accessability and Inclusiveness
• 2023 - Finalist in Moreton Bay Business & Innovation Awards Tourism Business Excellence
• 2023 - Finalist in Moreton Bay Business & Innovation Awards Accessability and Inclusiveness
• 2022 - Finalists in the Australian Women’s Small Business Awards
• 2019- Moreton Bay Region Business Excellence & Innovation Awards 2019 Nominee
• 2018- Moreton Bay Region Business Excellence & Innovation Awards 2019 Nominee

This recognition highlights the company's commitment to delivering exceptional tourism experiences in the Moreton Bay region.

To find out more, visit the website