WINES TO TRY

It’s said that great wine is made in the vineyard, and precision viticulture is the cornerstone of Ben Haines’ winemaking ethos. He has cast his net far and wide to build relationships with growers, from McLaren Vale to the Grampians, the Yarra Valley and Beechworth, in search of grapes he can put his name to.

2016 Ben Haines Volta Brackets Marsanne YARRA VALLEY, $35

Ben has long championed the white varieties from France’s Rhone Valley, marsanne and roussanne in particular. This is sourced from the Warramunda vineyard that sits between Oakridge and Yeringberg near Healesville in the Yarra Valley. Typically a low-acid variety, this has a citrus zip and a silky mouthfeel.

2017 Ben Haines Shiraz

GRAMPIANS, $30

This is Ben’s first wine from a sustainably farmed vineyard at the foothills of the Grampians, south of Great Western. There’s intensity to its dark berry and spice flavours, with bright acidity adding effortless balance. Powdery tannins deliver a long finish.

2017 Ben Haines

Return to the Vale Syrah

MCLAREN VALE, $45

This wine marks Ben’s return to where his career started. Biodynamically farmed, this wine comes from the cool northern end of McLaren Vale. There’s wonderful balance between its savoury tannins and opulent blackberry and cocoa flavours.

2014 Ben Haines Raphaella Syrah

YARRA VALLEY, $70

Grown in Coldstream and harvested three days after the birth of Ben’s first child, this wine is named in her honour. Floral aromas and a delicate satin-like texture lead to complex blood plum and cherry flavours.