Ballandean Estate is preparing to convert its much-loved signature restaurant into the Granite Belt’s first wine lounge.
Slated to open late this July, The Barrelroom will evolve into an atmospheric, cosy venue where visitors can sit back, relax and indulge in fine wine and platters of local produce.
The venue makeover is the brainchild of fourth-generation vigneron Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi, who is beside herself with excitement as she prepares for her role as chief storyteller.
“Now that we can travel freely again, we saw an opportunity to enhance our cellar door experience with the ultimate space for wine lovers,” Leeanne said.
“This has been years in the making and the first time in 30 years we have stepped back from having an onsite restaurant.”
She said that the massive increase in visitation over the pandemic has given Ballandean Estate the opportunity to innovate with their visitor offering.
“As a family, we live and breathe wine,” Leeanne said.
“We want the wine lounge to be an extension of our Italian hospitality, a place where we can share our stories, heritage, and of course our world-class wines.
“Bring your friends and family, sink into a leather lounge beside the fire, indulge in a wine flight of your choice, a Strange Bird varietal, or a glass of our 50th Anniversary Opera Block Shiraz.”
Moreover, she said that the ambience will be rustic, moody, and a little bit quirky.
“Think leather and luxury, the oaky gurgle of our port barrels, a roaring fire, ambient lighting and mirrors – decadent platters will be yours to graze upon,” Leeanne said.
She said that reservations for the wine lounge will open in May 2022 for bookings in July.
“Walk-ins will be welcomed but bookings are recommended,” Leeanne said.
