Wine producers keeping it in the family

With the second generation of the family now in charge, Bellarine Estate has expanded its impressive tourism offering. 

Not only does the family-run business produce wine, it also has a distillery on site, along with an eatery serving a Texas barbecue themed menu - and a new glamping experience.

Established in 1996 by Peter and Lizette Kenny, Bellarine Estate is set on 100 acres on the Bellarine Peninsula, overlooking Corio Bay - just outside of Geelong. 

The family produces chardonnay, pinot noir, shiraz, merlot, sauvignon blanc and viognier and also recently launched its gin distillery, as well as adding glamping accommodation over the summer months. 

Thirty Acres Distillery and Texas BBQ @ Bellarine Estate and Coastal Glamping @ Bellarine Estate make the estate a popular destination. 

The business is now run by the second generation with eldest son James Kenny taking over the reins from his parents as general manager, while his younger brother Julian Kenny is the estate head winemaker. 

Bellarine Estate produces a total of 16 wines each year, 10 under Bellarine Estate label that uses estate fruit and six under the Portarlington Ridge @ Bellarine Estate label with fruit sourced from local growers. 

Thirty Acres gin is made from the vineyard’s that have been wild fermented, twice distilled, charcoal filtered and macerated with locally inspired botanicals. 

Texas BBQ @ Bellarine Estate was launched last year next to cellar door, paying tribute to mother Lizette's US roots. 

Think an American BBQ Sampling Platter with Lizette's family recipe for brisket highlighted (above), or a Vegetarian BBQ Sampling Platter. 

The property is also home to 200-capacity outdoor beer garden - perfect for live music events. 

For more information, see www.bellarineestate.com.au