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.

Vineyard Manager Robyn Roberston fermenting change

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.  

ENDS For all media enquiries please contact:

Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi

Ph: (07) 4684 1226

Mobile: 0408 840 373

leeanne@ballandeanestate.com

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,

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.

For all media enquiries please contact:

Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi

Ph: (07) 4684 1226

leeanne@ballandeanestate.com

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.

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

·         Best Queensland Red Wine of Show 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  

Buy tickets

Making beautiful music together

“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.

Event details

• Saturday 8 November 2025
• Ballandean Estate Wines, 354 Sundown Road, Ballandean QLD 4382
• Event runs from 1130AM to 6PM
• Tickets $50
• Buses $22 return, picking up from 12 stops, starting at Vincenzos Thulimbah down to Ballandean school
•  Link to buy tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1443277
•  Welcome to bring your own picnic blanket, beanbags and chairs, but no food or alcohol

Ballandean Estate is thrilled to announce its inaugural Vineyard Sing, a music festival set to take place this Saturday 8 November at the Opera Block stage.

Event organiser Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi says, “We’ve been looking to shake up our Spring Vineyard party, and with 27 Operas in the Vineyard to cherish, we want to give our loyal wine-lovers an opportunity to connect again through music.

Bringing wine lovers together to make beautiful music

“Just weeks ago, we were reminiscing about Opera with some friends in the Barrelroom. Creative juices started flowing, and I reached out to my mate Todd from local band No Relation, adored for their pub classics, 70s, 80s and 90s covers. Imagine my delight to discover his bandmate Dave was a choirmaster for 20 years in Sydney! And that the big band was keen to perform again together.

“Vineyard Sing took shape. You’ll be guided by a charismatic choir leader who teaches several songs in three-part harmony over the course of the afternoon. By the end, our wine lovers will perform these songs together in the round, creating hilarious, joyous memories along the way.

Wine, beer and spirit bars, smoked meats and Italian treats

“Our world-class wines will be flowing at the Ballandean Estate Wine Bar. For the beer and spirit lover, Rotary Stanthorpe will be fundraising for Tessa Pascoe’s Apple and Grape Ambassador pursuit.

“Vineyard Sing will have a range of foodie delights on offer, from Bruschetta, cheese boxes,  Arancini, gourmet pasta boxes, Smoked Brisket Tacos, and life-changing Cannolii to sweeten your song.

“We are excited to welcome Italian-trained chef Jason Constanzo back to Ballandean Estate, and cannot wait to indulge in low and slow carnivore treats from Trappo Smoked Meats.”

“Good vibes, loud singing, great wine and food — pack your friends and head to Ballandean, it’s going to be awesome!” says Ms Gangemi.

The event kicks off at 1130am at 354 Sundown Road Ballandean, and runs until 4pm, with buses running to and from Stanthorpe.

Tickets to Vineyard Sing are just $49, and the event is fully catered. All food and wine can be purchased onsite. 

Event details

• Saturday 8 November 2025
• Ballandean Estate Wines, 354 Sundown Road, Ballandean QLD 4382
• Event runs from 1130AM TO 6PM
• Tickets $50
• Buses $22 return, picking up from 12 stops, starting at Vincenzos Thulimbah down to Ballandean school
• Link to buy tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1443277
• Welcome to bring your own picnic blanket, beanbags and chairs, but no food or alcohol

ENDS For all media enquiries please contact: Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi Ph: (07) 4684 1226

leeanne@ballandeanestate.com

Wine-lovers descended upon Ballandean Estate last Saturday at the latest vineyard party celebrating the end of spring and the excitement of the new harvest to come. Revellers joined Angelo Puglisi, the Father of Queensland Wine — and five generations of the Puglisi family — for yet another a party to remember.

Angelo’s daughter and estate ambassador Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi said,

“We farewelled Spring in spectacular fashion over the weekend. Our party people gathered on the Opera Block from far and wide, enjoying live music from No Relation and dancing in the rain. Moody skies, verdant greens, a shower or three helped make it a day to remember. With world-class wines flowing and a great Italian-inspired meal thanks to Italian-trained chef Jason Constanzo, we laughed, ate and danced the afternoon away, such a fabulous way to spend the day.

“We shared Angelo’s 1987 Rare Tawny as a special treat for everyone, the perfect pairing with Nonna’s amazing tiramisu. This is a history-making release, embodying Dad’s lifetime building one of the oldest family-owned wineries in Queensland. What a way to top off a relaxing afternoon in Ballandean.”

Over the past 80 years, Angelo Puglisi’s family business has been at the forefront of developing and promoting the Queensland wine industry, from modest beginnings to a now multi-million-dollar industry. Queensland’s Angelo Puglisi Grand Champion Wine of Show award is a perpetual acknowledgment to Puglisi’s influence and respect in the industry.

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Unveiling Queensland wine history

Ballandean Estate Wines is thrilled to announce the release of our 1987 Rare Tawny, crafted by Angelo Puglisi. This exceptional vintage, 37 years in the making, offers an unparalleled tasting experience, rich with flavors that promise to dance on your palate.

The 1987 Rare Tawny experience

Angelo’s 1987 Rare Tawny is a masterpiece, described by Mike Bennie from Halliday as “rich, slippery and ultra-dense, loaded with molasses and treacle characters, cinnamon, bitter-dark chocolate, toffee and stewed plum, with dried orange peel, raisin, and preserved cherries in tow”.

This award-winning tawny expresses decades of dedication and passion for winemaking, presenting an elegant symphony of flavors.

Signature Barrel Collection

To celebrate this remarkable release, we’ve curated a limited edition Signature Barrel Collection. Each collection includes a beautifully crafted Mongolian oak and glass barrel, signed and numbered, along with three bottles of Angelo’s 1987 Rare Tawny. Only 26 of these Signature Barrel Collections are available for the first release, making them a coveted addition to any connoisseur’s collection.

How you can secure the inaugural Aged Barrel

Before the general release, we invite you to participate in a unique opportunity — our Online Charity Auction. Opening today at 12pm, the auction features Number 01, the inaugural Aged Barrel, ready to be filled with Angelo’s distinctive tawny. This Mongolian Oak barrel, seasoned to perfection, comes with three bottles of the just-bottled 1987 Rare Tawny.

The successful bidder will also enjoy a food and wine lunch experience with Angelo Puglisi in the renowned Barrelroom Wine Lounge at Ballandean Estate Wines. This is more than an auction; it’s a chance to make history and contribute to a meaningful cause of your choosing. The proceeds of this auction will benefit a registered Australian charity selected by the winner, with all administration costs borne by Ballandean Estate Wines to ensure the chosen charity receives 100% of the winning bid.

Auction details

• Auction opens: 12pm, Friday, 15 November
• Auction closes: 12pm, Friday, 22 November
• Bid now: https://www.32auctions.com/Angelo1987

Once the auction concludes, the remaining 25 Signature Barrel Collections will be released for $950 each. These collections can be purchased online or reserved through Robyn via email or phone.

Join us in celebrating Queensland’s wine heritage

This event is not just about enjoying the finest of aged port; it’s about celebrating the rich heritage and tradition of Ballandean Estate Wines. Place your bid in the Online Charity Auction today and experience first-hand the magic of Angelo’s 1987 Rare Tawny.

For more information or to place your bid, visit our auction page.