INNOVATION, TRADITION AND FLAVOUR: A NEW CHAPTER IN PEMBERTON WITH LAMBTON WINES

In the heart of the Southern Forests wine region, sits Lambton Wines, the vineyard and business of vignerons Tyler Radomiljac and Christina Istomina. While the label is relatively new, their story is rooted in years of hands-on experience among Pemberton’s vines. Tyler grew up working with grapevines from his teenage years, gaining more than two decades of experience on his family’s property, before he and Christina decided to start their own operation in July 2024.

Lambton covers 50 hectares, with 20 hectares dedicated to vineyard, 20 hectares of untouched old growth forest, and 10 hectares of pastoral grounds. This diverse landscape not only shapes the farm’s character but also reflects the couple’s approach to balancing productivity with a deep respect for the environment.

The core of their business is grape growing, producing premium fruit that is sought after by wineries across Western Australia. Tyler and Christina are deeply dedicated to the art of grape growing. Years of vineyard experience have shaped their belief that success lies in careful, hands-on practices, particularly pruning, which Tyler sees not simply as maintenance but as a long-term strategy for vine health and productivity. This attitude was inherited from Tyler’s father, David Radomiljac from years of working together at the Pemberley family business. This approach has already borne fruit: since their first vintage as owners, Lambton Wines has doubled its yield per hectare while maintaining the quality and flavour of the fruit.

The decision to launch their own label came from a demand for locally produced riesling. Recognising this gap, a dry and a sweet Lambton riesling was released. The Lambton portfolio has quickly grown with intention and creativity. A pinot noir was added when the 2025 vintage produced fruit of such exceptional quality that Tyler and Christina felt compelled to bottle it under their own name. Looking ahead, they are planning to add a Chardonnay to their range, continuing to build on the strengths of the Pemberton region.

Beyond wines, they have also embraced innovation with the creation of a non-alcoholic grape soda. Made from their award-winning sauvignon blanc grapes, the soda was developed in collaboration with their friends at Willarra Gold. It has proven a popular choice for those who prefer non-alcoholic options but still want to experience the quality and flavour of Southern Forests wine grapes. This diversification demonstrates Lambton’s forward-thinking approach and their willingness to find new ways to connect people with their fruit.

The couple also speak warmly of the community they are part of. For them, the Genuinely Southern Forests brand symbolises not only quality but also connection. It represents growers supporting one another and the collective strength of the region’s producers. They believe this sense of collaboration is key to ensuring the long-term viability of the area’s agriculture.

For Tyler, one of the most pivotal decisions was choosing to return to farming after working professionally in Perth as an engineer. The draw of the Southern Forests and the chance to build something of their own proved stronger than city life. Their early years at Lambton have already shown what can be achieved, and they look forward to seeing how their wines perform at the upcoming Southern Forests and Valleys Wine Show, their first official entry into competition.

Lambton Wines is still a young label, but it carries with it a clear sense of place and purpose. Tyler and Christina’s commitment to quality, innovation, and their region shines through in every decision they make, whether it is reshaping their vineyard, experimenting with new products, or strengthening ties within the community.

For those eager to taste the results of Lambton Wines’ craftsmanship, their wines and Grape Soda are available locally, with the Grape Soda currently stocked at Manjimup Central Deli and The Gateway Hotel. You can also enquire directly through lambtonwine.com. Follow their journey on Instagram to stay updated as their range continues to grow.

Photography Credit: Craig Kinder Photography