Ballandean Estate Wines

Queensland’s oldest family-owned winery.  The Puglisi family are Granite Belt wine pioneers and the winery is a local institution.

Some wineries have history. Ballandean Estate has roots. The Puglisi family have been growing grapes on the Granite Belt since 1932, making this Queensland’s oldest family-owned winery and a true pioneer of the region’s wine industry. Five generations in, the passion hasn’t dimmed one bit.

We’ve dropped by many times over the last couple of decades and one thing has stayed the same, great wine!

Be sure to make time for a leisurely tasting in the cellar door, choose from their extensive list of white, rosé, red and fortified wines. There is a tasting fee of $10 (2026), refundable with purchase, that’s worth every cent.

The estate is renowned for its cool climate wines, and in particular Shiraz and Merlot. However, there are also a number of Strange Bird varietals, which is a reason in themselves to visit.

Look out for GFM (Giallo, Fiano, Malvasia), Viognier, Malbec, Nebbiolo, Durif and Saperavi.

It’s worth noting, The Barrelroom Restaurant, as at the time of writing (2026), no longer offers the delectable menu of previous years which is quite disappointing as I love a good winery restaurant. Now it is more a wine lounge and serves a grazing platter or cheese platter, both of which feature delicious local produce.

Tips

• Take home a bottle of the Fine Old Tawny or Angela’s Muscat
• Try all the Strange Birds, you may find a new favourite
• Pre-book for groups or platters, and weekend visits
• Plan the rest of your trip with our Granite Belt Food & Wine Travel Guide