Toni Pla Bou first visited Star Lane in 2012. He was immediately struck by its natural beauty, the carefully manicured vineyard, and the layout of the winery itself. It was a dream come true when he and his wife Leonie Martino purchased Star Lane in 2025.

Their first vintage was a challenge. Despite the extreme weather, they are delighted with the result, grapes with high flavour intensity and just the right ripeness to produce a perfect drop. So be on the lookout next year for Star Lane’s Sangiovese and Nebbiolo, in addition to the Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Shiraz, and Merlot which are currently available to buy online.

Pla Bou believes that developing a regional identity is integral as it provides a clear promise of quality, style and authenticity. He wants to contribute to Beechworth’s established reputation by diversifying his vineyard with varieties from the Northern Rhone in France, and the hills of Italy. Winemakers in Beechworth have found that such varieties are ideally suited to the growing conditions of the region. Pla Bou’s aim is that Star Lane will offer its own expression of Beechworth given the site’s unique climate and soil. He is planning to add Roussanne, Fiano and Gamay to his core offering, and to grow Marsanne, Viognier and Barbera for blending and for special cellar door releases.

The Cellar Door at Star Lane offers one of the most picturesque tasting experiences in the region. The couple invite travellers to enjoy their hospitality and a relaxing glass of wine with a view.

www.starlane.com.au