Ballandean Estate Wines is marking International Women’s Day by celebrating the powerful lineage of women who have steered Queensland’s oldest family-owned winery through decades of growth, innovation, and community service.
We raise a glass to Ballandean Estate’s influential women in wine
Sisters Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi and Robyn Puglisi-Henderson now helm the operations, driving the business forward while honouring their heritage. Robyn has been instrumental in taking Granite Belt wine to the world, spearheading major export achievements that have placed Ballandean Estate on the global map.
“As long as there’s been a Ballandean Estate, there have been strong women behind it all. Since 1932, the Ballandean Estate wine dream has been supported by strong women. They backed bold ideas, raised families, and helped take that dream from our corner of the Granite Belt to the world. We’re proud to raise a glass to them this International Women’s Day,” said Robyn Puglisi-Henderson, business and export manager.
A legacy of female leadership
Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi, one of Australia’s most influential women in wine, is the third family member to receive the prestigious Samuel Bassett Award, recognising her significant contribution to the Queensland wine industry and her role as a vocal advocate for the region. Leeanne was Queensland’s first female voice and vote on the Australian Grape and Wine Board and is now the Queensland Wine Industry Rep on its Small Winemakers Committee. She sits on numerous boards such as Granite Belt Wine Tourism, is a Director of the Community Bank Stanthorpe, and is a past President of the Queensland Wine Industry Association.
(L to R) Robyn Puglisi-Henderson, Robyn Robertson, Mary Puglisi, Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi
Estate matriarchs, wine pioneers and intergenerational influence
This modern leadership is built upon the indomitable foundation laid by Mary and Josephine Puglisi. At just 19 years of age, estate matriarch and wine pioneer Mary Puglisi visualised opening a cellar door, acting as the catalyst for tourism on the Granite Belt similar to the Barossa and Hunter Valley regions. She spent over 50 years welcoming visitors and was also a recipient of the Samuel Bassett Award. The legacy stretches back even further to Angelo’s mother, Josephine, who arrived in Australia from Sicily at age 12. In a display of incredible fortitude during World War II, she stared down the Australian Army when they demanded the internment of her husband and father. Instead of surrendering their farm machinery, she negotiated a deal to supply crops to feed the Army, securing the family’s future.
The influence of women flourishes throughout Ballandean Estate, from the vineyard to the cellar door. The welcoming faces of the cellar door—Lizzy, Stef, Olga, Lily, Leisa, Karen, Donna, Jan, Tessa, and Yvonne—play a vital role in sharing the estate’s story and hospitality with visitors every day.
In the vineyard, leadership is underpinned by the expertise of Robyn Robertson, who grew up in Ballandean on a family orchard and brings decades of viticultural knowledge to the estate. After an accomplished tenure with Sirromet Estate, Robyn was appointed Vineyard Manager in 2019.
Her guidance and passion continue to elevate the quality and innovation of Ballandean’s wines.
“I’m honoured to help carry forward Ballandean Estate’s winemaking legacy, nurturing innovative varietals and guiding the next generation in our vineyards,” says Robyn Robertson.
Based on data from 2021–2023, approximately 21.5% of viticultural roles (vineyard managers/growers) in Australia are held by women. This marks a significant increase from 10% a decade prior, a clear upward trend in female leadership within Australian vineyards.
A spirit of community service and country hospitality
The spirit of community service also thrives in the next generation. Anna Henderson, daughter of Robyn Puglisi-Henderson, served as the 2024 Apple and Grape Festival Ambassador, continuing the family tradition of service. Furthermore, team member Tessa Pascoe has been named a 2026 Young Ambassador entrant. These roles underscore the estate’s commitment to fostering leadership and community engagement in young women, ensuring the values of the estate are passed down to future leaders.
About Ballandean Estate Wines
Ballandean Estate Wines is Queensland’s oldest family-owned and operated winery. Since 1932, the Puglisi family has been producing premium quality wines on the Granite Belt. Blending tradition with modern techniques, Ballandean Estate is renowned for its Strange Bird™ alternative varieties and its commitment to the region’s history and future.
Ballandean Estate Wines is thrilled to announce the return of the highly anticipated Vineyard Sing event on Saturday, 23 May 2026. This six-hour festival promises a unique blend of award-winning cool-climate wines, gourmet food, and the collective joy of a participatory musical experience.
Building on the estate’s legacy as the premier host for the region’s largest events, including the iconic Opera in the Vineyard — which spanned 27 events, drew crowds over more than 2000, and raised over $1 million for charity — Vineyard Sing is set to become the next chapter in Ballandean Estate’s storied history.
Vineyard Sing event details
🗓️Date: Saturday, 23 May 2026 Time: 11:30 AM – 6:00 PM Location: Ballandean Estate Wines, 354 Sundown Road, Ballandean QLD 4382 Tickets: $50 per person – Limited availability! Book now: https://www.trybooking.com/DJJAN
Watch highlights from the inaugural Vineyard Sing event November 2025
A participatory festival of wine, music, and community
Event organiser Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi shared her excitement for the event, saying:
“The atmosphere at our first Vineyard Sing was electric! It was an afternoon of pure unfiltered joy that still resonates, bringing people together in a way that only music, wine and a spectacular lightning storm can.
“We’re thrilled to continue this tradition in 2026. Imagine this: a glass of award-winning wine in hand, the beauty of the vineyard stretching out before you, and the joy of belting out iconic anthems alongside hundreds of new friends. You’re invited to gather around the Opera Block stage for a celebration of community, music, gourmet food and the finest cool-climate wines.”
A musical journey with gourmet food and premium wines
Unlike traditional concerts, Vineyard Sing invites attendees to become the performers. Under the expert guidance of choirmaster who brings over 20 years of experience leading participatory choruses, a pop-up choir will come together to sing all-time favourite songs in harmony.
The day’s musical journey will feature a special guest appearance from Michelle Hampton, a seasoned entertainer whose infectious energy gets the crowd up and dancing, adding another layer of excitement to the day.
The festival will feature three dynamic sets of live music, including performances by local band No Relation. Guests can also indulge in gourmet food from local vendors and sip on Ballandean Estate’s award-winning wines, all while soaking in the breathtaking vineyard views.
About Ballandean Estate Wines
As Queensland’s oldest family-owned winery, Ballandean Estate Wines has been a cornerstone of the Granite Belt’s wine and cultural scene for generations. Known for its award-winning cool-climate wines and its commitment to community, the estate has hosted some of the region’s most iconic events, blending world-class experiences with the warmth of family tradition.
If you’d like a media famil to Vineyard Sing in May, we can pop you (and a friend if you like) on our VIP list.
What a feast! Our G’day Italiano event was everything we hoped for and more. The evening felt casual, intimate, and just like a big family dinner on Christmas Day. We brought together 24 guests at the wonderful Vincenzo’s at The Big Apple for an unforgettable celebration of Italian food and Australian wine.
The atmosphere was filled with laughter and conversation as we talked about history, played some lively wine trivia, and made new friends. It truly felt like a gathering of old companions, sharing stories over incredible food and wine.
And the food was simply glorious! The team at Vincenzo’s crafted a spectacular six-course menu that left everyone speechless. Guests enjoyed house-made antipasto, crispy arancini balls, savoury Spaghetti Al Gambero, and tender Pork Saltimbocca. For a sweet finish, we indulged in classic Tiramisu and a rich Affogato.
Each course was perfectly matched with a selection of Ballandean Estate wines, from our Opera Block classics to our unique Strange Bird varietals. The pairings elevated every dish and showcased the best of the Granite Belt’s cool-climate wines.
A huge thank you to Vincenzo’s at The Big Apple for hosting us and delivering such an incredible dining experience. To everyone who joined, thank you for making the night so special. Buon appetito, mates! We can’t wait to see you at the next one.
This Australia Day long weekend, embark on an unforgettable escape to the Granite Belt for G’day Italiano — an exclusive event blending the best of Italy and Australia at an iconic Granite Belt venue. Hosted by Ballandean Estate, the wine dinner will be held Saturday 24 January 2026 at Vincenzo’s on the New England Highway, Thulimbah, from 630pm to 11pm.
Six courses of wine and Italian food
G’day Italiano promises a six-course artisan-crafted Italian feast, expertly paired with the region’s acclaimed wines. Sisters Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi and Robyn Puglisi-Henderson, renowned hosts from Ballandean Estate, will guide guests through a culinary journey where warm country hospitality meets bold Italian flavours and Ballandean Estate’s cool-climate wines.
A night to remember, hosted by the Puglisi sisters from Ballandean Estate
Event organiser Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi says,
“This event is set to unfold inside Vincenzo’s Café, Deli, and Wine Bar — a much-loved venue known for its Big Apple, inviting country charm and authentic Italian-inspired cuisine.
“Our G’day Italiano menu features house-made antipasto, golden arancini balls, Spaghetti Al Gambero, Pork Saltimbocca, classic Tiramisù, and decadent Affogato. Each course is perfectly matched with Ballandean Estate’s award-winning wines, including new release Novello, Opera Block classics, Strange Bird alternative varietals, and luxurious fortified sips such as our Chocolate Liqueur and White Liqueur Muscat. Buon appetito!”
G’day Italiano is the perfect excuse for a long weekend getaway
Set in a relaxed summer atmosphere, G’day Italiano pairs unforgettable food and wine with great company — making it the ultimate evening for anyone looking to enjoy the long weekend in true Australian-Italian style. Attendees are encouraged to make a weekend of it by exploring the stunning Granite Belt region, renowned for its vineyards, fresh produce, and warm hospitality.
Tickets are $100 per person, including all six courses and wine pairings. Seating is limited, so secure your spot for this one-night-only celebration at Vincenzo’s via https://www.trybooking.com/DIHLF.
About Ballandean Estate and Vincenzo’s
Ballandean Estate is Queensland’s oldest family-owned and -operated winery, celebrated for its innovative spirit and commitment to quality wine.
Vincenzo’s Café, Deli, and Wine Bar is a Granite Belt icon and premium food and wine destination, offering authentic Italian-inspired dishes, local and imported wines, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that captures the essence of country hospitality. New owner Vish Sharma has been welcomed with open arms to the Granite Belt and will continue Vincenzo’s tradition of authentic Italian cuisine.
Ballandean Estate has reinforced its position at the pinnacle of Queensland winemaking following a remarkable performance at the recent Queensland Wine Awards. For the second consecutive year, the estate has been honoured with Winery of the Year, Winemaker of the Year, and Viticulturalist of the Year — an achievement that places Ballandean Estate among an elite group of wineries recognised for outstanding quality and unwavering consistency. The winery secured top honours across multiple categories, affirming its dedication to producing premium wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Granite Belt.
Medal tally
This year, Ballandean Estate’s commitment to excellence was reflected in an impressive medal tally, with a total of 23 medals awarded at the Queensland Wine Awards. The estate received:
two Gold Medals for the 2024 Opera Block Shiraz and the 2024 Opera Block Cabernet Sauvignon, both awarded 95 points
an additional 12 Silver Medals awarded for 2024 Nebbiolo, 2023 Nebbiolo, 2018 Nebbiolo, 2024 Saperavi, 2024 Shiraz Viognier, 2025 Miscuglio, 2025 Rosé, 2025 Novello, 2025 White Pearl, Non-Vintage Fine Old Tawny, 2023 Opera Block Chardonnay, and 2024 Reserve Semillon
The estate also extends congratulations to Riversands Vineyards for whom Ballandean Estate serves as the winemaking team, after achieving outstanding results with a top Gold Medal for their 2024 Merlot and two high Silvers for the 2024 Saperavi and 2025 Vermentino, plus seven Bronze Medals. Together with Riversands, Ballandean Estate Wines brought home a total of 33 medals, further solidifying its place as a viticultural leader.
Andrew Corrigan MW, Robyn Robertson and Angelo Puglisi
Champion Mainstream Red Wine of Show
The Queensland Wine Awards, renowned for celebrating excellence in the state’s wine industry, further recognised Ballandean Estate with the trophy for Champion Mainstream Red Wine of Show for its 2024 Opera Block Cabernet Sauvignon— a testament to the region’s strength in crafting bold, cool-climate reds.
Reflecting on the estate’s achievements, Chief Winemaker Boxi Zhen shared,
“It’s a great honour to receive recognition from the prestigious judges at the Queensland Wine Awards, amongst them Andrew Santarossa (Gapstead Estate – Vic), Liz Heidenreich (Clare Valley SA) and Emma Shaw (Collector Wines – Canberra). Throughout the judging process, they maintained a benchmark for excellence — the only wines to receive medals must be medal-worthy on the national stage. As the industry faces down a challenging time of wine glut across Australia, the premium quality demonstrated is a testament to Queensland wineries showing strength, resilience and ambition.”
Boxi Zhen
Boxi Zhen and Andrew Corrigan MW
Mainstream varietals Shiraz and Cabernet score highly
“We’re thrilled to see our Shiraz and Cabernet scored so highly. Renowned judge Andrew Santarossa, CEO of Gaptstead Estate in north Victoria, told us we can be proud that both our mainstream and alternative varietals are most than just hitting the mark — the Granite Belt region is up there with the best Australia has to offer.”
Leeanne expressed her gratitude for the support of their loyal customers and the wider wine community.
“This achievement belongs to our entire team, from the vineyard to production and the cellar door. We invite everyone to come and taste these award-winning wines and experience the magic of the Granite Belt firsthand.
“These accolades serve as a significant milestone for Ballandean Estate, which has been a pioneer in the region for decades. The awards not only honour the quality of the current vintage but also underscore the estate’s enduring reputation for consistency and excellence.”
Mario Gangemi, Robyn Robertson, Robyn Puglisi-Henderson, Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi, Angelo Puglisi, Mary Puglisi, Boxi Zhen, Russell Wantling
As one of Queensland’s founding family-owned wineries, Ballandean Estate has a rich heritage of producing premium, cool-climate wines in the Granite Belt. The estate is renowned for its warm hospitality and its legacy of hosting memorable cultural events that bring the community together.
Ballandean Estate Wines celebrated a resounding success with its inaugural Vineyard Sing festival last Saturday, which saw over two hundred guests transform the winery’s iconic Opera Block into a vibrant open-air concert. The unique event blended a full day of live music with a participatory choir experience, culminating in a spectacular lightning storm and Barrelroom Wine Lounge party.
A musical journey
The festival unfolded over three sets, with popular local band No Relation providing a high-energy soundtrack of classic hits and interactive singing sessions led by esteemed choirmaster Dave Stuart.
“The energy was simply electric. Seeing hundreds of people, many of whom started the day as strangers, come together to sing in harmony, belting out Jon Bon Jovi, INXS, Stevie Wonder and more. Vineyard Sing was everything we hoped for and more,” said Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi, event organiser.
The day’s musical journey featured a special guest appearance from Michelle Hampton, a seasoned entertainer whose infectious energy got the crowd up and dancing, adding another layer of excitement to the day.
“ABBA’s Mama Mia was the moment the crowd lost its inhibitions, and it stayed that way for the afternoon, an hilarious outpouring of community joy. We are so grateful to our guests, our band No Relation, chef Jason Constanzo and Trappo Smoked Meats for making the first Vineyard Sing an unforgettable success.”
Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi
A feast for the ears, eyes and palates
The festival atmosphere was complemented by a diverse selection of gourmet food and drinks. The Ballandean Estate Wine Bar served its renowned cool-climate wines, while Rotary Stanthorpe managed a beer and spirits bar, successfully fundraising for Tessa Pascoe’s Apple and Grape Ambassador pursuit. The culinary lineup featured Italian-trained chef Jason Constanzo and Trappo Smoked Meats, with popular menu items including Smoked Brisket Tacos, gourmet pasta boxes, arancini, and cannoli.
Guests enjoyed the festival atmosphere under the marquee on VIP lounges and seating, and in the olive grove on picnic blankets and beanbags, with smooth logistics managed through return bus services and a fully catered on-site experience.
Ballandean Estate Wines, Queensland’s oldest family-owned winery, has secured two major trophies for its 2024 Durif at the prestigious 2025 Australian Small Winemakers Show. The accolades celebrate the estate’s commitment to producing exceptional cool-climate wines in the Granite Belt region.
The 2024 Durif scored 96 points from the judges and received the following awards:
· Preben Jacobsen Memorial Stewards’ Choice Trophy
Image: (L to R) Boxi Zhen, Ballandean Estate Winemaker; Chris Doig, President Australian Small Winemakers Show; Robyn Puglisi-Henderson, Ballandean Estate Business Manager
Ballandean Estate’s Winemaker Boxi Zhen, who is building on his reputation as 2024’s Emerging Winemaker of the Year, shared some of the challenges inherent to this Strange Bird varietal,
“Durif is renowned for being both beautiful and challenging in the Granite Belt, with tight clusters that require meticulous care in vineyard and cellar. The effort spent coaxing out its best qualities is evident in this vintage, which offers uniquely Granite Belt fruit profiles and a dark, graphite-like tannin structure—distinctively different from other regional Durifs.
“The 2024 release is marked by harmony between rich fruit and oak, matured in 50% new French barrels that are seamlessly integrated. Expect a wine with balance, structure, and a velvety-silky palate. Pronounced black berry characters, florals, and vanilla cream notes lift the nose in this benchmark Australian Durif.”
According to Business Manager Robyn Puglisi-Henderson,
“Winning two trophies on the night for our 2024 Durif was a great honour. Receiving the Preben Jacobsen Memorial Stewards Choice Award was a special moment for the Puglisi family. Long time family friends and associates, Dad (Angelo Puglisi) and Preben Jacobsen were part of the original committee which established the Australian Small Winemakers Show back in the seventies.
“We purchased our Bellevue vineyard from Preben back in 1996, and 12 years later we planted our Durif vines on that property. It is a fitting tribute to see this varietal flourish on the land we are now custodians of.
“Preben would be thrilled to see a Granite Belt Durif awarded 96 points, scoring ahead of wines from Rutherglen and Barossa.
“Ballandean Estate had an excellent growing season, which allowed us to craft a wine with a distinct Granite Belt character that we are incredibly proud to share. Winning Best Queensland Red Wine of the show was an added reason to celebrate.”
TASTING NOTE AND JUDGES’ COMMENTS
2024 Durif — 96 points
Lovely fragrance of lavender and violet; hugely floral and inviting. Tarry, graphite-edged tannins provide direction and freshness. Harmonious oak integration (50% new French). Velvety, silky palate with pronounced black berries and a touch of vanilla cream. Distinctive Granite Belt Durif—delicious now, with structure to age.
FAST FACTS
Ballandean Estate produced 1929 bottles of 2024 Durif this year, 160 cases, 14% alc v/v
One hectare of Durif is currently planted in the Bellevue vineyard, 850 metres above sea level at Ballandean.
Ballandean Estate harvested 3.9 tonnes harvested in 2024 after two rounds of heavy bunch thinning. Of these, 2.4 tonnes of the best bunches were selected to produce the straight 2024 Durif.
Media tasting samples are available upon request.
Ballandean Estate Wines is transforming the iconic Opera Block stage into a vibrant, interactive music festival with the launch of Vineyard Sing on Saturday, November 8, 2025.
This unique event invites guests to become part of the performance in a day-long celebration of song, wine and community spirit. The six-hour concert experience will unfold in three sets, anchored by the popular band No Relation, known for their crowd-pleasing repertoire of pub classics from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.
Image: Sisters Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi (L) and Robyn Puglisi-Henderson (R) of Ballandean Estate Wines
“We wanted to create an experience that goes beyond just watching a performance; we want our guests to be the performance,” said Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi, event organiser at Ballandean Estate.
“Vineyard Sing is all about that collective joy you feel when you sing at the top of your lungs with friends, old and new. It’s a chance to connect, have fun, and make incredible memories together, surrounded by the beauty of the vineyard.”
Guiding the vocal journey is Choirmaster Dave Stuart, a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience blending vocal harmonies. Stuart, who has shared the stage with Australian music luminaries like Katie Noonan, James Morrison, Phil Emmanuel, and Peter Cupples, will teach attendees several songs in three-part harmony. The day culminates in a joyous group performance in the round, with a special guest appearance also teased for the event.
Vineyard Sing Songbook released
To build anticipation, the winery has launched the Vineyard Sing Songbook, which contains the lyrics for the day’s anthems. While the songs remain a secret, the collection promises singalong classics perfect for a sunset chorus.
“We’ve just published the songbook, and the excitement is building! Whether you’re a shower soloist or a car karaoke pro, this is your official invitation to warm up those vocal cords. We’re preparing for hundreds of voices to come together for one massive, unforgettable singalong,” added Puglisi-Gangemi.
The festival is fully catered, offering an array of gourmet food and drinks for purchase. The Ballandean Estate Wine Bar will pour its award-winning wines, while Rotary Stanthorpe will operate a beer and spirits bar as a fundraiser for Tessa Pascoe’s Apple and Grape Ambassador pursuit. The culinary lineup features creations from Italian-trained chef Jason Constanzo and low-and-slow barbecue from Trappo Smoked Meats, with menu items including Bruschetta, cheese boxes, Arancini, gourmet pasta boxes, Smoked Brisket Tacos, and Cannoli.
Welcome to bring your own picnic blanket, beanbags and chairs, but no food or alcohol
Ballandean Estate Wines, Queensland’s oldest family-owned and operated winery, has been awarded a Five-Star Rating by the Halliday Wine Companion. This recognition places the Granite Belt winery among Australia’s most outstanding wine producers, acknowledging its consistent production of wines of exemplary quality and character.
Fourth-generation vigneron Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi expressed her pride in the achievement.
Generations of winemaking excellence underpin Five-Star Rating
“We’re always grateful to have our commitment to excellence across five generations of winemaking recognised. Ballandean Estate exceeded Halliday’s stringent criteria with three of our wines achieving the coveted 95-point score: our 2023 Nebbiolo, 2023 Small Batch Reserve Chardonnay, and Angelo’s 1987 Rare Tawny.
“This Five-Star Rating requires wineries to demonstrate a pattern of producing wines of exceptional quality. We’d also like to congratulate Balancing Heart Wines and Symphony Hill Wines for achieving this status.
“Ballandean Estate continues to push boundaries whilst honouring traditional winemaking practices. We’d like to thank our teams in the vineyard, cellar door and production staff for raising the bar when it comes to innovation and quality. A big shout out to winemaker Boxi Zhen and our vineyard manager Robyn Robertson.
Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi
Ballandean Estate’s recognition reflects decades of dedication to crafting premium cool-climate wines from their high-altitude vineyards situated over 800 metres above sea level. The Granite Belts’s unique terroir, characterised by free-draining granitic soils and cool-climate conditions, provides ideal growing conditions for both traditional and alternative varietals.
A word from James Halliday
James Halliday praised the winery, describing it as “A rock of ages in the Granite Belt, owned by the ever-cheerful and charming Angelo and Mary Puglisi. Ballandean Estate’s cool-climate, high-altitude and granitic terroir deliver national and international award-winning wines.”
Five-Star Rating builds on awards trajectory
The Five-Star Rating comes following Ballandean Estate’s remarkable success at the 40th Queensland Wine Awards in 2024, where the winery claimed eight major trophies, including Winery of the Year, Winemaker of the Year and Viticulturalist of the Year. The five-star rating places Ballandean Estate among an elite group of Australian wineries recognised for their outstanding quality and consistency.
Established in 1932 by Salvatore Cardillo, Ballandean Estate has been pioneering Queensland winemaking for over nine decades. The estate’s unique terroir, characterised by granitic soils, cool climate conditions, and high altitude, creates ideal conditions for producing wines with intense flavours and natural acidity that have earned national and international recognition.
As we count down the days until winter pruning is complete at Ballandean Estate, we’re reminded why we cherish this time of year. The crisp winter mornings, breathtaking sunsets, and the anticipation of spring’s arrival when bud burst will signal the start of a new growing season.
The end of winter at Ballandean Estate brings a special kind of magic to our vineyard. While our vines have been resting in their deep winter sleep, thanks to those essential sub-zero temperatures we’ve enjoyed since June, our vineyard team has been working through the frosty mornings on one of our most important annual tasks: pruning.
This mammoth undertaking is reaching completion, as our team has carefully pruned each dormant vine by hand. It’s meticulous work that requires skill and patience, but it’s absolutely crucial for the quality of next season’s harvest.
What makes our pruning technique special?
We’re not just following tradition—we’re innovating. Our team is currently conducting trial work, experimenting with different pruning techniques to see how we can achieve various crop loads. This commitment to continuous improvement is what sets Ballandean Estate apart and helps us produce the exceptional wines you love.
The pruning process involves removing excess canes and carefully shaping each vine to optimize sunlight exposure and airflow. This attention to detail during the dormant season directly impacts the quality and quantity of grapes we’ll harvest in the months ahead, all contributing to the unique character of our cool climate wines.
Why cool climate makes all the difference
The Granite Belt’s unique position as Australia’s highest wine region—less than 1% of Australian vineyards sit 600m above sea level—creates the perfect conditions for cool climate wine production. Our high-altitude location delivers natural acidity that enhances freshness, structure, and lift in every bottle. Cool climate wines are medium-bodied, fresh, and focused, with refined tannins, impressive flavor intensity, and moderate alcohol levels that express our terroir with remarkable elegance.
Friends of Ballandean
Your wine adventure starts here. We’ll share our stories, give you access to exclusive deals, reveal upcoming events and more.
Time: 11:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: Ballandean Estate Wines, 354 Sundown Road, Ballandean QLD 4382
Tickets: $50 per person – Limited availability!
Book now: https://www.trybooking.com/DJJAN
