Queensland wine pioneer honoured

A pioneer the Granite Belt wine growing region has been recognised for his contribution to the Queensland industry.

Former Toowoomba lawyer, John Robinson, established the Robinsons Family vineyards at Ballandean almost 40 years ago, and has been presented with the 2008 Bassett Award.

The award is named in honour of wine industry stalwart Samuel Bassett, who established Bassett's winery in Roma in 1859.

Mr Robinson says he became enamoured with the wine industry after enjoying the wines in France, and decided to see what he could do in the Ballandean Valley.

"It's just ideal from the point of view of climate, and climate generally in the valley is very good because it's very similar to Bordeaux and Margaret River in summer."