Balgownie wines are steeped in history, character, and a genuine sense of place. Born in the red soil of Bendigo in 1969, Balgownie Estate was founded by pharmacist-turned-winemaker Stuart Anderson, inspired by the great French wines and pioneers like Dr Max Lake. Anderson planted Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz on a gently sloping vineyard in Maiden Gully—wines that remain at the heart of Balgownie's identity today.
With rich alluvial clay soils and a climate of warm days and cool nights, Bendigo proved ideal for crafting bold, age-worthy reds. Balgownie quickly earned a reputation in the 1970s as a serious red wine producer, with a style marked by savoury complexity, moderate alcohol, and thoughtful oak use.
In 1999, wine-loving brothers Des and Rod Forrester, along with Bill Freeman, revived the estate, modernised the winery, and expanded the vineyards—introducing new varieties like Sangiovese and Viognier. That same year, they launched a second chapter in the Yarra Valley, planting Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in the region’s cool-climate soils. By 2013, the Yarra vineyards matured, yielding elegant, complex wines worthy of the Estate label.
Though Balgownie faced challenges—including a fire in 2020 that destroyed its Yarra Valley restaurant and cellar door—the brand’s resilience stood firm. A world-class venue rose in its place by 2022, reflecting the estate’s ongoing commitment to luxury, innovation, and hospitality.
Recent years have seen Balgownie expand beyond its two estate vineyards, sourcing top-tier fruit from across Victoria while still focusing on its hallmark reds and cool-climate whites. The appointment of winemaker Tony Winspear—who has been with Balgownie since 1994—ensures continuity of craft and vision.
From its pioneering roots to its modern evolution, Balgownie remains a benchmark of Victorian winemaking. Whether it's the structured Cabernet from Bendigo or the refined Chardonnay from the Yarra Valley, Balgownie wines offer depth, balance, and a sense of timeless quality.
