Queensland Rugby League has launched a new range of wines called Q1908, honouring the year the game of rugby league was formed at the Railway Hotel in Brisbane.

Q1908 is a collaboration between the Queensland Rugby League, Three Kings Wine Merchants and award-winning winemaker Ben Riggs. It pays homage to the people, the communities and the places central to the fabric and the passion shared for rugby league in Queensland through three wines – The Clubhouse, The Queenslander and The Cauldron.

The Maroons already have a 30-year partnership with the iconic XXXX beer brand.

QRL chief operating officer Rohan Sawyer said: “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.

“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.

“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.”

Riggs added: “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.”

The Queenslander – a bold and flavourful shiraz from McLaren Vale, and The Clubhouse – a fresh, crisp cool climate Adelaide Hills sauvignon blanc, are available for $149 per six-pack.

The Cauldron – a sparkling brut from the Adelaide Hills, a finely crafted wine perfect for celebrating life’s achievements, will be available for $149 per six-pack from September.

Q1908 Wines distributed exclusively by Three Kings Wine Merchants.

Queensland Rugby League mark special XXXX milestone with new training jersey

In June, Queensland Rugby League announced the team would wear an eye-catching XXXX training jersey to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their partnership with the brewery.

QRL managing director Robert Moore said: “There has always been a tremendous synergy between XXXX and rugby league in Queensland.

“From our point of view, it is heartening to have a partner like XXXX because their investment not only helps the Maroons, but delivers outcomes for all levels of rugby league in Queensland.

“It’s a partnership that some may say would rival many of the great on-field combinations – like Lewis and Langer, and Thurston and Cronk.”

James Brindley, managing director of Lion Australia, said the partnership was a source of enormous pride for the brand and the people of Lion.

“XXXX is Queensland through and through, which is why our partnership with the Maroons has stood the test of time. We’ve been sitting in the dressing rooms, for every game over the past 30 years.

“We’ve been in the hands of the punters as we’ve seen Origin heroes come and go, battles won and lost. We’ve been spread across fences, goal posts, jerseys and fields across all levels of rugby league in the Sunshine State, as we support the next crop coming through. XXXX will continue to be there for many years to come.”

XXXX throws its weight behind 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games