Balgownie Estate was the first boutique vineyard to be planted in the Bendigo district in more than 80 years. Established in 1969 by local pharmacist and winemaking legend, Stuart Anderson. The 70's and 80's are often reminisced over by those that would drive up from Melbourne for their allocation of the big full-flavoured reds, renowned for their exceptional ageing qualities. From these artisan beginnings, the 'Balgownie' name quickly gained a reputation for it's award winning wines both in Australia and overseas. Even the Queen, on a stately visit, got to have a wee sample of the 1975 and 1976 Cabernet Sauvignon. Today, Balgownie Estate boasts two vineyards and cellars: Bendigo, with predominantly old vine Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz as well as small parcels of Chardonnay and Viognier, and now the cool climate Yarra Valley with the regionally distinctive varietals of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Both the Bendigo and Yarra Valley Cellar Door outlets provide visitors with access to wines from both regions. Each Cellar Door offers visitors a chance to embrace a holistic wine tourism experience with regionally inspired foods from a 'shared table' style cafe and an informative wine museum that captures the trials and tribulations of two of Australia's great wine regions. If that's not enough get away from it all at the Balgownie House; the perfect retreat ! You can relax and enjoy breakfast on the verandah, curl up with a good book on the couch, have a spa or maybe sleep all day (as do the kangaroos!), wander down to the cellar door to experience one of our famous reds or distinctive whites, 'tingle' your tastebud's with a regionally inspired lunch in the cafe.
