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.
Ballandean Estate Wines, Queensland’s oldest family owned and operated winery, has taken home two prestigious accolades at the 34th Cairns Show Wine Awards, held from 17–20 June 2026. The estate’s 2024 Saperavi earned a Gold Medal, while its 2024 Semillon was awarded a Silver Medal.
Cool climate wines at a national wine show in the tropics
The Cairns Show Wine Awards are unique in their focus on examining wine quality and style within the context of a tropical location, celebrating wines that excel in Far North Queensland’s vibrant tourism and hospitality environment. The awards draw entries from across Australia—including renowned regions such as the Hunter Valley, McLaren Vale, Coonawarra, and the Grampians—with celebrated producers like Bimbadgen, d’Arenberg, De Bortoli, and Peter Lehmann among the field. To shine in such esteemed company adds another chapter to Ballandean Estate’s already stellar Saperavi reputation.
The double win reflects Ballandean Estate’s enduring commitment to crafting premium cool-climate wines that span both classic and rare varietals. From its award-winning Saperavi to its elegant Semillon, the estate continues to showcase the exceptional quality of Granite Belt fruit on the national stage. This year’s success builds on a strong showing at 2024’s Cairns Show Wine Awards, where winemaker Boxi Zhen’s wines won Gold and the Trophy for the 2024 Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, along with Bronze medals for the 2023 Wild Ferment Viognier, 2023 Shiraz Viognier, and 2024 Rosé. Now regarded as one of the top 10 Australian wine shows, the awards continue to grow in stature.
Fourth-generation vigneron Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi shared her delight at the estate’s success:
“We couldn’t be more proud to see our Saperavi and Semillon recognised in the tropical north. Mario and I had the joy of participating at the public tasting, where an impromptu Saperavi masterclass for some of the guests turned into one of the highlights of the event. It’s a thrill to share the story of this remarkable varietal with so many wine lovers.
“We’re also incredibly proud of our Chief Winemaker Boxi Zhen, who served as a judge for the second year running, lending his refined palate to classes Ballandean Estate wasn’t competing in. It’s a wonderful endorsement of the calibre our young winemaker brings to the national stage.
Saperavi finds a second home on the Granite Belt
Originating in Georgia, where winemaking dates back more than 8,000 years, Saperavi has found a remarkable second home on the Granite Belt. Ballandean Estate was one of the first to plant the rare and alternative varietal in the region, with vines first established in its Bellevue vineyard in 2008. The estate’s granite soils reflect heat onto the fruit, speeding ripening during the day while cool overnight temperatures preserve acidity, resulting in mature, intensely flavored grapes. The 2024 Saperavi continues this proud tradition, having also achieved a 95-point Halliday rating.
Cairns soon to host a satellite cellar door
“The warmth of Far North Queensland’s wine community has been overwhelming, and we’re excited to be in negotiations with a Cairns partner to establish a satellite cellar door—bringing a taste of the Granite Belt to the tropics.”
The 2024 Saperavi and 2024 Semillon will soon be available for tasting at Ballandean Estate’s cellar door and for purchaseonline from 1 July onwards. Wine lovers are warmly invited to visit the Granite Belt to experience these award-winning wines firsthand.
About Ballandean Estate Wines
Ballandean Estate is Queensland’s oldest family owned and operated winery, with a winemaking history dating back to 1932. Located on the Granite Belt, 850 metres above sea level, the estate is home to some of Australia’s oldest Shiraz vines and rarest wine varietals. Combining the best of traditional and modern winemaking practices, Ballandean Estate produces premium cool-climate wines to suit all tastes. Visitors are warmly welcomed at the cellar door, located at 354 Sundown Road in Ballandean, open daily from 9am to 5pm. For more information, visit ballandeanestate.com.
If you’re seeking clear skies and a sunny weekend, head on up to the Granite Belt, where we are high and dry, ready to celebrate. We are gearing up for a huge turnout to Vineyard Sing amongst our red and gold autumn vines.
We’re honoured to share that Ballandean Estate has just been awarded a SILVER Best of Queensland Experience stamp of recognition by Tourism and Events Queensland. We share this honour with you, and thank you for your support and glowing reviews across platforms such as TripAdvisor and Google Business. The Silver acknowledges operators who consistently deliver a high-quality, world-class visitor experience. For our amicis in the Far North of Queensland, we will see you at the Cairns Wine Show Public Tasting and Wine Show dinner Saturday 20th June 2026.
Watch this space for upcoming winemaker dinners and events coming soon.
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.
We hope you are making the most of the second-last long weekend until October! It’s the perfect excuse to go on a wine adventure and spend a little time doing Easter your way. We are ready to welcome you!
Ballandean Estate is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Our cellar door dream team might just pour you something new, an exclusive preview of our top-Halliday-rated red varietals, or a small batch premium Chardonnay.
Enjoy a wine flight in the courtyard overlooking the vines, or settle into the Barrelroom Wine Lounge for an immersive wine and food experience. The wine lounge will be serving signature platters from 11am to 4pm every day. We highly recommend booking online or calling the cellar door on 07 4684 1226 to avoid disappointment, as limited sittings remain for Sunday and Monday.
Experience for yourself what makes us Queensland’s Winery of the Year 2024 & 2025, a TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Winner three years running, and a Best of Queensland Experience.
Let us present you with Ballandean Estate’s Cantina Nota for 2026! On March 17, we wrapped up the 2026 harvest here at Ballandean Estate with the final load of Cabernet Franc — a fitting end to a season packed with challenges, gutsy decisions, and serious flavour. The last grapes are in, the presses are finally catching their breath, and we’re buzzing with anticipation at the cellar door.
Every vintage tells its own story, and 2026’s is a tale of resilience, teamwork, and a hearty splash of creative juices. Early heat waves were the catalyst for launching bold new vineyard trials that flipped thescript on grape growing and delivered some tasty surprises.
The extreme heat meant fast-ripening fruit, but our proactive techniques helped us bring in a dazzling array of grapes: Black and White Muscat, Shiraz, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot all got their time in the spotlight.But it’s the Fiano and Durif — plus Viognier, Malvasia, Saperavi, and Cabernet Franc — that have us especially excited. If your wine rack is chasing something a little different, these Strange Bird varietals promise a wine adventure in every glass.
A dash of rebellion: pushing the boundaries
That spark led to two major vineyard experiments with our Durif and Fiano.
Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi, sums it up,
“Ballandean Estate built its reputation on innovation, a consistent quality, and a dash of rebellion. This vintage proves that when we push boundaries in the vineyard, we create truly extraordinary wines.”
Reimagining Durif
Durif is a powerhouse variety: inky, robust, and not afraid to make a statement. But it does have its quirks — tight grape clusters and a tendency for drama. Enter vineyard manager Robyn Robertson, who gave the Durif bunches a serious prune just after flowering. Loose and well-ventilated, these clusters were less likely to hold onto moisture. The Durif vines focused energy on fewer grapes, producing berries with deep concentration and aromas that would make any oenophile swoon. This early intervention not only reduced disease risk, it gave us a Durif which is the ultimate choice for any lover of big reds. What makes our Durif unique is its vibrant and sophisticated cool climate expression, lean and fresh with intense acidity, a gorgeous inky purple with a crimson meniscus in the glass.
Finding the fabulous in Fiano
If Durif is bold, Fiano is the overachiever—fast-growing, vigorous, and, left unchecked, happy to throw a leaf party at the expense of the fruit. Our award-winning winemaker, Boxi Zhen, saw an opportunity to experiment. His solution? Radical leaf removal, right after the first week of flowering, baring the fruit to the Granite Belt sun. What followed was alchemy: to protect themselves from the sunlight, the grapes developed a natural “sunscreen” — skin tannins and proteins — which in turn supercharged their flavour. The Fiano juice that emerged was the best we’ve seen in three years: thick, lush, and aromatic, promising a wine that’s as textured as it is sensuous.
Boxi Zhen stirring it up
Behind our standout vintage is Boxi Zhen, our young winemaker who’s quietly enhancing the Ballandean playbook. Boxi ventured from China to Adelaide to earn his Master of Viticulture and Oenology, adding a degree in Food Science for good measure. With a keen scientific mind and a passion for minimal- intervention winemaking, Boxi lets the fruit and Granite Belt terroir shine in every bottle — wild yeast and all. His recent accolades— such as Emerging Winemaker of the Year 2024, Winemaker of the Year 2024 and 2025, and 95 points from James Halliday for both the 2023 Nebbiolo and 2023 Small Batch Reserve Chardonnay — mean the wine world is taking notice.
A legacy of excellence on the Granite Belt
Ballandean Estate isn’t just riding a winning streak; we’ve reinforced our reputation for excellence spanning 50-plus years of winemaking. The 2025 Queensland Wine Awards saw us named Winery of the Year, Winemaker of the Year, and Viticulturalist of the Year — two years in a row. We don’t chase awards, but we do love knowing our commitment to premium,terroir-driven wines resonates beyond our vineyard gates. Every glass is a taste of Puglisi family history, and a celebration of what the land can offer.
Varietal stars of Vintage 2026
After a mad rush at the end of January and into February, we can confidently say the vintage quality is outstanding. The extreme heat meant fast-ripening, but our proactive techniques helped us bring in a dazzling array of grapes: Black and White Muscat, Shiraz, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot all had their time in the sun. But it’s the Fiano and Durif—plus Viognier, Malvasia, Saperavi, and Cabernet Franc—that have us especially excited. If your wine rack is crying out for something a little different, these Strange Bird varietals promise adventure in every sip.
What’s next in the cellar?
With the vineyard quieting down, Boxi and team are busy nurturing the new vintage through its next stages. We’re putting the finishing touches on our amici favourites: our 2026 Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, the crowd pleasing White Pearl, and the Summertime blend. Up first? Our beautifully vibrant 2026 Rosé—perfect for a fridge near you. Looking ahead, keep an eye out for the 2025 Vintage Saperavi fortified wine (think winter evenings and good company).
Taste the gorgeous Granite Belt
2026 proved that a little innovation, collaboration, and a cheerful disregard for business as usual can lead to spectacular wines. While we work away on new releases, there’s no better time to discover our current range — from Halliday-hyped bottles to everyday savours. Visit our cellar door or shop online, and let’s raise a glass to rebellion, resilience, and the glory of the Granite Belt’s high-altitude wines.
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 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.
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.
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
