Burnbrae's History
The name ‘Burnbrae’ is derived from Celtic language and means “the field sloping down to a stream” which describes the picturesque location.
Burnbrae winery and vineyard is one of the oldest in Mudgee and has had several owners, the first being John Newman. He was the first of the Newman family to come to Australia and left the property to his son George. He then sold it to the Roth family when he left in 1914 to fight in WW1.
It was then Allan Ellis and his wife who took over the land before selling it to the Hodge family who on-sold it to the Turisse family. They planted grapes in 1968, establishing it as a vineyard and winery. Wine production began in 1974 in an open-air winery situated under the historic peppercorn trees which are still standing today. The Turisse’s made wine for personal use and sold table grapes and wine grapes to the Sydney markets and at the farm gate. They also sold wine grapes to Craigmoor (now known as Craigmoor Estate Wines). During this time, an old dance hall located at Sally’s Flat was transported down to Burnbrae and converted into the cellar door.
Tony & Jill Bryant bought Burnbrae in 2004, immediately seeing the potential both in the property and the vineyard. They teamed up with winemaker Frank Newman and began a wonderful partnership. In 2014. Tony & Jill, along with esteemed Winemaker Frank, developed a reputation for producing wines of distinction and quality. The era laid important foundations - blending tradition and deep understanding of the vineyard to create wines that continued to influence Burnbrae. Lisa Bray joined the team as the Winemaker in 2011 and brought her own delicate distinction to the wines. Tony’s daughter, Trine, and her husband Andy, took over family business in 2014. Their combined years of experience in the wine industry and vast knowledge on how to run a business has meant that Burnbrae has thrived.
In 2025, neighbours Chris and Carmen stepped into the care of Burnbrae, bringing together a shared respect for the land and a deep connection coming from the vineyard, known historically as Iona, just across the road. Their journey is one shaped by experience, intuition, and a genuine love for what Burnbrae represents.
Chris, a vigneron as well as born and raised on the land, brings a lifetime of understanding of soil, seasons, and the quiet patience required to grow great fruit. Carmen brings decades of experience running her own businesses and supporting others, with a clear eye for stewardship, people, and sustainability. Together, they guide Burnbrae with intention — honouring its past while thoughtfully shaping its future.
Every change made is done with care: respecting the land, respecting the history, and above all, respecting the wine. Burnbrae’s story continues with authenticity at its core — rooted in heritage, yet confidently moving forward.
You will find Burnbrae along the Hill End Road, just after crossing McDonalds Creek, turning right into a driveway to begin your sensory journey through, flavour place and feeling.
