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Our History

Stella Bella Wines and its success today evolved from the fusion of two passionate minds, Stuart Pym and Janice McDonald. Together they decided to craft wines that would rival the benchmarks of Australia and beyond, with a strong belief in the unique and expressive terroir of Margaret River. From this the Stella Bella story unfolded to where it is today

1996 – The creation of Suckfizzle….

In 1996, Stuart & Janice took over the ‘Suckfizzle’ Vineyard, the most southern vineyard in the Margaret River Region. Correctly believing that its distinctive location & meso-climate could produce truly unique wines. 

1997 – Suckfizzle first vintage…

The first vintage of the Suckfizzle Sauvignon Blanc Semillon, now a highly acclaimed wine, was made in 1997. A white Bordeaux style wine inspired by Domaine de Chevalier. Its mischievous name was inspired by the Great Lord Suckfizzle, a monumental character in the 15th century book Gargantua and Pantagruel, by monk and medico Francois Rabelais.

1998 – Suckfizzle Sauvignon Blanc Semillon released… 

1998 marked the release of the first Suckfizzle vintage. The brand name and story was very controversial at a time when the wine industry took a very traditional and conservative approach to marketing. Some trade and media even refused to review the wine as they thought it disrespected the industry. Gone are those days and Suckfizzle now has a cult following and a renowned reputation.  

1999 – The creation of Stella Bella…

The beautiful Stella Bella label and brand was designed by Braincells Design agency in 1999. The brief was to encapsulate the beautiful colours, aromas and flavours we enjoy and talk about in wine. The name Stella Bella meaning ‘Beautiful Star’ in Italian.

2000 – Stella Bella Pink Moscato released…

The first wine of its style in Australia, which set the benchmark for the Moscato wine style today. Made from the traditional muscat grape variety Muscat Rose à Petits Grains. The winemakers were inspired by Italian varieties and a drive to produce wines that are unique to Margaret River. 

2001 – First vintage of a Stella Bella white & red wines…

A Stella Bella Chardonnay and  Sangiovese Cabernet were the first two table wines to be produced under the Stella Bella label.

2002 – Stella Bella Chardonnay & Sangiovese Cabernet released…

These two iconic Stella Bella wines were released to the market.

2004 – The start of Skuttlebutt…

The Skuttlebutt range was introduced to the Stella Bella wine portfolio.

2007 – First vintage of Serie Luminosa Merlot & Cabernet Sauvignon

Stella Bella Serie Luminosa was introduced to represent the very finest selections of our Margaret River vineyards. As the quality expected from this brand is so high, the wines may not be produced every year, depending upon the whims of Mother Nature. 

2009 – The rise of Serie Luminosa Chardonnay… 

After receiving high accolades for the 2008 Stella Bella Chardonnay, a Chardonnay was introduced to the Serie Luminosa range.

2009 – Cellar door opened...

We moved into our charming little home on Rosa Brook Road. 

2013 – Luke Joliffe takes the reins as Senior Winemaker...

Luke joined the Stella Bella team for the 2007 vintage. In 2013 Stuart Pym handed over the Senior Winemaker reins to Luke.

2017 – Stella Bella, Luminosa + Suckfizzle re-brand, introduction of Otro Vino collection...

Along with a refresh of our Stella Bella, Luminosa and Suckfizzle brands, we launched the exciting Otro Vino range. A chance to showcase the creative side of Stella Bella.

2018 – Our most successful wine show season...

Stella Bella scooped 14 Trophies and 22 Gold Medals during the 2018 wine show season, our most successful season since inception.

2019 – Cellar Door extension...

Our rustic little Cellar Door received a beautiful new tasting area.

2021 – Wine of the Year...

Our 2018 Luminosa Cabernet Sauvignon was awarded Wine of the Year at the WA Good Food Guide Awards.

2022 – 99 Points...

After achieving Wine of the Year last year, our 2019 Luminosa Cabernet Sauvignon was awarded 99 Points by the esteemed Stuart Knox, The Real Review.