A Conversation with Jake

THE LANE CELLARS

We’re excited to share a conversation with someone who embodies the spirit of this region so naturally: Jake from The Lane Cellars. If you’ve ever wandered into the shop and been met with a warm chat, a thoughtful recommendation, or one of his famously cheeky chalkboard quips, you already know the energy he brings to Orange.

Why Orange?

Orange had been on the radar for many years before the move. Its rustic lifestyle, distinct seasons and small‑producer focus were a real drawcard. It reminded me a lot of my hometown of Armidale up in the New England region, but on a much grander scale.

After spending most of my twenties running The Welder’s Dog – Armidale’s own craft beer bar and brewery – I started yearning for a life away from the late‑night finishes. So in 2019, last drinks were called and my wife and I packed our things and made the move.

As luck would have it, I landed a job at the newly opened independent bottle shop right in the heart of Orange – The Lane Cellars. Their ethos of supporting local and small Aussie producers resonated deeply with me. Fast forward to 2026 and after nearly seven years at the helm, I haven’t looked back.

 

What’s it to you?

I’ve always loved the front‑of‑house role — being the person who bridges the gap between producer and customer. It’s a custodial position and to do it well you need great respect for what you’re exhibiting.

Luckily, that’s easy when you live and work in Orange. With so many incredible producers right on our doorstep, it’s impossible not to get hooked on what this region is all about. And it’s definitely a passion of mine to get as many new folks hooked too.

 

What’s your flavour?

I often find myself reaching for the ChaLou Pinot Noir, whether it’s the heat of summer or the dead of winter. It’s a versatile wine – bright, fresh, fragrant, and oozing drinkability.

Pair it with charcuterie from Cured Artisan Meats, and the bluesy‑rock sounds of Led Zeppelin and you’ve got yourself a match made in heaven (or at least the Stairway to!).

 

What’s your rhythm?

When the roller door to the shop goes up, I’m in my element – mingling with customers, chatting with producers, adding a cheeky wine quip to the chalkboard and stocking our shelves with the best local and independent wine and beer we can get our hands on. Plus the occasional dash to Cured or Racine Bakery for treats.

When the roller door goes down, my pace slows too. Getting out to local cellar doors for a casual chat and a glass, hiking in nearby national parks, or simply tending to the veggie garden at home – these are the things that ground me and make me feel part of something special.

 

Who’s your community?

There are countless people who make our local community what it is, but here are a few that instantly come to mind.

Spring Hill village, just south of Orange, where my wife and I live — from veggie swaps to bringing in your neighbour’s bin, to collecting stray cricket balls from nearby yards, to fundraising raffles at the iconic Railway Hotel. This little village exudes community spirit, and we’ve felt at home from day one.

My boss and the owner of The Lane Cellars, David Cumming, is another. He’s a great teller of tales, a strong brand communicator and someone who has served locally on multiple wine, sport, and tourism committees. He’s created a bottle shop that doesn’t relegate local producers to a dusty corner, he puts them centre stage. He champions community in a big way.

 

What’s your Orange moment?

I’m writing this with an old ginger cat snoozing on my lap as I sit on my back patio, local wine in hand, a light shower of rain overhead, chatting with my wife about future garden plans and something delicious wafting from the stove.

There are probably prettier words to sum up that simplicity – but that, to me, is what living here is all about.

Visit The Lane Cellars for local wine and beer whilst in Orange.