Natalie Fryar

Often referred to as Australia’s Sparkling Queen, Natalie Fryar has devoted her career to crafting exquisite wines – ones that capture the elegance, power and beauty of Lutruwita/Tasmania.

Her journey began at just 14 when she stepped into Hardys winery for school work experience. Two years later, she was already working her first vintage. That early spark grew into a career that has taken her across Australia and the world – from Margaret River to the Barossa, from the Victorian High Country to the cool vineyards of Henty. But it was Lutruwita/Tasmania that truly captured her heart.

Slice

Image Credit: Monica Winspear

Credit: The Bakery Creative Agency

Credit: The Bakery Creative Agency

“What I am always struck by is the extreme beauty of this island. Every time I fly in, step outside or drive anywhere, I am astounded by the elegance, power and richness of this land. This is what I want my wines to show in every drop.”

– Natalie Fryar

For 14 years, Natalie shaped the story of Jansz Tasmania, helping to cement its reputation as one of Australia’s leading sparkling wine producers. Then in 2015, she took a bold leap, founding Bellebonne – her own sparkling wine label, dedicated solely to creating the finest sparkling wine in the country. That vision has paid off. Bellebonne is now one of only two wineries in Australia to be awarded 7 stars by internationally renowned wine judge Tyson Stelzer.

Natalie’s influence stretches far beyond Bellebonne. She co-founded Abel Gin, consults for leading labels including Pipers Brook Vineyard and Ninth Island, and has been instrumental as a consultant and chief winemaker for the Australian Cuvee Centre. In every role, she brings the same relentless drive to craft wines and spirits that express the island’s unique terroir.

For Natalie, it’s not just about the craft – it’s about community. “On top of the natural beauty, the community here is strong, inviting and always keen to support each other. You can’t build an industry or a company without that.” Her story is proof of how collaboration, persistence and vision can transform not just a career, but an entire industry.

Slice

Key Roles & Contributions

  • Founder & Winemaker, Bellebonne – Dedicated to Tasmania’s sparkling wine; awarded 7 stars by Tyson Stelzer.
  • Co-Founder, Abel Gin – Crafting premium Tasmanian gin.
  • Former Winemaker, Jansz Tasmania – 14 years establishing Jansz as a leader in sparkling.
  • Consultant Winemaker – Pipers Brook Vineyard, Pipers Brook and Ninth Island labels.
  • Chief Winemaker, Australian Cuvee Centre – Leading sparkling wine innovation nationally.
  • International Wine Consultant – Advising wineries across Australia and beyond.

Natalie Fryar is more than a master of her craft. She is a storyteller, capturing the spirit of Tasmania in every bottle, and showing the world what happens when passion meets place.

 

Back to Visionaries – 

Slice