Something special is coming to the Barrelroom this September — and seats are filling fast. We’re thrilled to announce The Chef, the Wench and the Winemaker, an exclusive long lunch experience in Barrelroom Wine Lounge. Taking place on September 12th and 13th, this is an experience that will stay with you long after the last glass is poured.
This special collaboration brings together Chef Ian from Underground Chef, Lisa from Saucy Wench, and Boxi Zhen from Ballandean Estate Wines for a food and wine experience full of flavour, story and regional hospitality.
It’s a meeting of cultures, kitchens and vineyards — Japanese, Malaysian, Italian and Chinese influences brought together. Expect bold sauces, handcrafted dumplings, slow-cooked beef cheeks, and perfectly paired wines from Ballandean Estate.
Seats in the Barrelroom are strictly limited, and just $120 per booking for two people.
This collaboration brings together three of the region’s most exciting culinary and wine minds:
Chef Ian — The Underground Chef
Chef Ian is known for pushing boundaries with bold, innovative Asian flavors that are as surprising as they are satisfying. His food doesn’t just taste extraordinary — it tells a story.
Lisa — The Saucy Wench
Lisa brings an irresistible energy to every table she touches. Expect wit, warmth, and the kind of hospitality that makes you feel like a guest in someone’s home rather than a diner in a restaurant.
Boxi Zhen — Ballandean Estate Winemaker
Since joining us in late 2022, Boxi has brought a world of experience to our Granite Belt terroir — from the Napa Valley to South Australia to Qingdao. His minimal-intervention philosophy and instinct for coaxing the best from every varietal make him the perfect partner for a menu as adventurous as this one.
A menu built to linger over
Each course has been thoughtfully designed to complement the bold character of Ballandean Estate’s cool-climate wines.
Course OneTrio of Chicken Yakitori, Duck Spring Roll & Pork and Prawn Shu Mai
A vibrant, flavor-packed opening that sets the tone for the evening — delicate textures meeting the bright acidity of our Granite Belt whites.
Course TwoTempeh & Glass Noodle Dumpling
A beautifully crafted vegetarian course that rewards the patient palate — earthy, subtle, and deeply satisfying alongside a glass of estate Chardonnay.
Course ThreeAsian-Style Beef Cheek with Asian Mushroom Jus
The showstopper. Slow-cooked to melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, this dish is the perfect partner for Boxi’s robust, character-driven Shiraz — a pairing that feels like it was written in the stars.
Reserve your tickets before they sell out
This is a genuinely exclusive experience — the Barrelroom seats a limited number of guests, and demand for events like this is always high. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, planning a weekend getaway to the Granite Belt, or simply looking for an evening that goes beyond the ordinary, this is the one.
Ballandean Estate is an easy drive from Brisbane, Toowoomba, the Sunshine Coast, and the Gold Coast — so make a weekend of it. We’ll take care of the rest.
We’re having a winter to celebrate — and we can’t wait to share it with you.
Since 1932, our family has poured everything we have into crafting wines that honour this remarkable corner of Queensland. And right now, we have exciting news fermenting.
On September 12th and 13th, 2026, we’re hosting The Chef, the Wench & the Winemaker — a long lunch experience where exceptional food, premium wines, and great company come together for an afternoon you won’t soon forget. Something special is coming to the Barrelroom this September — and seats are filling fast. We’re thrilled to announce The Chef, the Wench & the Winemaker, an exclusive long lunch experience in Barrelroom Wine Lounge. Taking place on September 12th and 13th, this is an experience that will stay with you long after the last glass is poured.
Angelo Puglisi’s birthday is coming up Wednesday, 29 July 2026, watch this space!
Winter at Ballandean Estate brings frost, brass monkey mornings, roaring fireplaces, and expressive red wines. We’re an easy drive from Brisbane, Toowoomba, the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast — so why not make a weekend of it? Let us pour you something truly memorable, we can’t wait to welcome you back.
To everyone who joined us at Vineyard Sing 2026, thank you. You brought the good vibes, the big voices, and the kind of community spirit that turns a day at Ballandean Estate into a lifelong memory. From the first warm-up note to the last dance, you made this day unforgettable
That energy carried straight onto the Opera Block stage. Local legends No Relation kept the music rolling, rocking the vines with retro classics that had the crowd up and dancing from the first set.
When every voice rose as one for Take Me Home, Country Road by John Denver, the vineyard was humming. Our next choir tune was Can’t Help Myself, which saw inner soul singers unleashed, songbooks and microphones in hand.
As the afternoon stretched on, the sun dipped lower and painted a vibrant sunset behind the Opera Block stage. With the vines glowing red and gold around us, it was a gorgeous goodbye to Autumn — voices, colour, and warmth blending in harmony.
Take a scroll through the photos and see if you can spot familiar faces in the choir and out on the dance floor. You might just catch yourself mid-song or mid-dance move.
We are already buzzing for the next Vineyard Sing, and we hope you are too.
Wine lovers from far and wide are converging upon Ballandean Estate this Saturday, May 23, for Vineyard Sing,a musical festival drawing people together to sing in imperfect harmony. Set against the backdrop of the estate’s historic vineyards, the six-hour festival promises a unique blend of singing, dancing, premium wines and gourmet food.
The event will see hundreds of pop-up choir members lifting their voices in unison, creating a powerful experience where the audience becomes the performers.
Event organiser Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi says,
“There’s nothing quite like seeing a vineyard full of people singing their hearts out together — it’s joyful, a little bit cheeky, and exactly what Ballandean Estate does best.
“Imagine it: hundreds of voices joining together for one unforgettable sunset chorus, right here on our Opera Block stage.
“We can’t wait to welcome people up to the Granite Belt, where the skies are clear and the wine is flowing. The vineyard sits at an impressive elevation of 850 meters above sea level, a vibrant backdrop of red and gold.
“At its heart, Vineyard Sing serves as a celebration of community, and the connection between fine wine, live music, good times and the local landscape.”
Vineyard Sing is set to accommodate a large turnout — the main event marquee is scheduled for full installation Thursday, songbooks have been printed, and Italian street food preparation is underway.
No Relation will be playing three sets, with special guest Michelle Hampton, A seasoned entertainer whose infectious energy gets a crowd up and dancing.
Event organisers have confirmed that the natural elevation of the site ensures the venue is high and dry, providing ideal conditions for both the performers and the spectators.
Building on the estate’s legacy as the premier host for the region’s largest events, including the iconic Opera in the Vineyards — 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.
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/DJJANA
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.
Ballandean Estate Wines is preparing to host Vineyard Sing on Saturday, 23 May 2026, a six-hour festival which promises a unique blend of singing, dancing, premium wines and gourmet food.
Event organiser Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi shared her delight in the strong support from the local community and friends of Ballandean Estate.
Introducing the Ultimate Wine Country Weekend
“We’d like to thank everyone who got behind this event early, and for all the visitors who made this one of our biggest Easter weekends yet in a time of uncertainty.
“To show our appreciation, we’re introducing the Ultimate Wine Country Weekend, valued at over $1200. The winner will receive a three-night stay at Accommodation Creek Cottages, a welcome hamper on arrival, an elevated tasting and lunch experience at the Barrelroom Wine Lounge, and transport to and from the event.
“Imagine relaxing by the firepit, enjoying your cozy country cottage set amongst ancient gum trees, overlooking the stunning Sundown Valley in Ballandean. What a great place to relax after an exhilarating day of music, wine, and excellent company.
“Entering the giveaway is incredibly simple. Every Vineyard Sing ticket purchased before 5pm Thursday 23 April automatically constitutes one entry into the draw. We’d also like to reassure our wonderful early supporters that we have entered existing ticket holders into the draw. We will announce the winner on Friday 24 April 2026.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone for a day of music and connection in the vines. Ballandean has so much to offer, and we’re glad to give someone the chance to explore the people, place and passion that make it magical,” said Ms Puglisi-Gangemi.
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.
🗓️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
Vineyard Sing — cheese platter and a welcome bottle of wine, plus transport to and from the event
Barrelroom Wine Lounge $100 voucher — enjoy lunch and an elevated wine tasting
Valued at $1200
Watch highlights from the inaugural Vineyard Sing event November 2025
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.
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 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.
Friends of Ballandean
Your wine adventure starts here. We’ll share our stories, give you access to exclusive deals, reveal upcoming events and more.
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/DJJANA
