Queensland Rugby League (QRL) has announced the launch of its own range of wines under the Q1908 brand.
The range was created in collaboration with Three Kings Wine Merchants and winemaker Ben Riggs, and is named after the year that rugby league began in Brisbane (1908).
Q1908 will be home to three varieties that are intended to pay homage to the people, communities and places central to rugby league in Queensland. There’s The Clubhouse, a Sauvignon Blanc from the Adelaide Hills; The Queenslander, a Shiraz from McLaren Vale; and The Cauldron, a sparkling Brut from the Adelaide Hills.
Rohan Sawyer, Chief Operating Officer for QRL, said the new brand will ‘unite, excite and inspire’ loyal supporters. It also gives people a different drink option to celebrate with other than beer, a category the QRL is already connected to through a strong love and partnership with XXXX.
“We have always been able to celebrate with a XXXX in hand, but providing a wine range opens up the door for more options to celebrate together. It’s exciting to broaden what we do and deliver, to make sure we are truly uniting, exciting and inspiring those involved in our great game, as well as those who simply enjoy a beverage with friends,” Sawyer said.
Winemaker Ben Riggs worked closely with the QRL team to create the range and have the wines hero not only the sport, but the highest quality winemaking.
“The important ingredient for the success of Q1908 was ensuring we delivered what consumers want and that’s quality wine. I have worked closely with the team at the QRL to provide unpretentious wines that express the essence of the vineyard in a style that people enjoy drinking; big rich and complex with finesse, texture and elegance,” Riggs said.
Speaking about the different wines in the range, Sawyer reflected on the elements they represent in the world of rugby league.
“The Clubhouse represents the fabric of the community, a meeting point for people to connect, enjoy sport, and to gather regardless of whether that is in a remote, regional or city location. The Clubhouse bonds people,” he said.
“The Queenslander represents the spirit, passion and unique charm Queenslanders embody – the participants, fans, volunteers, Queensland Maroons members, and those that don the Maroons jersey. On one hand, appearing incredibly laid back, cheeky and contented, but on the other, having an undeniable drive, resilience and never-give-up attitude.
“The Cauldron represents the venue of extreme emotions, of so much success and of magical moments – a place to celebrate special occasions. It ignites feelings of excitement, jubilation and sheer joy.”