Meet our 2026 Novello: a very limited release Cabernet Franc

Ballandean Estate’s 2026 Novello is a light-bodied, fruit-forward Cabernet Franc –– bright, aromatic, and ready to drink now. Once hidden away as a blending grape in Bordeaux-style reds, Cabernet Franc is stepping into the spotlight as a standalone varietal  Ballandean Estate is one of the pioneers bringing it to your glass.

A Strange Bird limited release

Novello is a Strange Bird™. That’s not just a chirpy label: it’s an official designation for rare and alternative varieties grown in Queensland’s Granite Belt, where a grape must represent no more than 1% of total bearing vines in Australia to qualify. fits that bill. With just 330 hectares planted nationally, Cabernet Franc is a rare find in Australian wine country.

A word from our winemaker

Winemaker Boxi Zhen drew on single vineyard old vine fruit to craft something vibrant and immediate. We asked Boxi what inspired him to experiment with a lighter bodied, fruit-forward expression of the Cabernet Franc.

“This is Ballandeean Estate’s first straight Cabernet Franc release in around 20 years.

“Cabernet Franc is a notoriously demanding grape to grow. It needs plenty of heat and sunlight to ripen fully and express its signature blueberry, raspberry, minty, and liquorice characters.

“In 2026, the warm and dry vintage delivered exactly those conditions, bringing the fruit to an ideal point where both character and structure could shine. We were so confident in what we had, we ran a small-scale lab fermentation before harvest to confirm.”

What does Novello taste like?

Expect violet, red cherry, and raspberry on the nose. On the palate, it’s light-bodied with chewy  tannins, crunchy acidity, and a gentle fruitiness that never tips into sweetness. At 14.5% alcohol, it sits comfortably between a medium red and a rosé, inspired by the fresh, lively Loire Valley style of Cabernet Franc.

What food pairs well with Novello?

Its lightness makes Novello one of the most versatile wines in the range. Pizza, pasta, lamb, and veal are natural matches. You can also try it alongside duck, salmon, or semi-hard cheeses. For a Queensland summer barbecue, we’ll be drinking it lightly chilled.

Fast facts

• Drink now to 3 years. This wine is built for pleasure, not patience.
• What grape is used? Old vine Cabernet Franc, grown at Ballandean Estate in Queensland’s Granite Belt
• How much does it cost? $34.00 per 750ml.
• Is it a limited release? Yes. Stock won’t last.
• Can I serve it chilled? Absolutely. It enhances the fresh, fruit-forward character.

Sample our 2026 Novello before it disappears

The 2026 Novello is available now, but as a limited Strange Bird™ release, it won’t be around long. Shop the 2026 Novello here.