Ben Haines
Ben Haines Wine Co. Yarra Valley
Ben’s new wine vision, Ben Haines, is a journey of discovery inspired by the glorious diversity of Victoria’s wine regions. "His perpetual vineyard exploration offers wines of different origin year to year, season to season - the ultimate aim to gather a collection of highly distinct sites over time. Chosen vineyards are those that he believes possess great interest, charm and depth – and capture a sense of mystique."
Having graduated in viticulture at The University of Adelaide in 1999 Ben’s journey in the wine industry began in the vineyards – evidently a result of his fascination with wine provenance and notions of terroir.
After a year off in 2002 to indulge his creativity and immerse himself in music, he went on to pursue winemaking, enriched along the way through liaisons with many great winemakers. Each of these experiences helped inform his winemaking philosophy and ultimately his new winemaking adventure.
Wine has taken Ben to many great places, from regions of South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania to the fascinations of Europe and the USA. Most recently, Ben worked with Mitchelton Wines in Central Victoria as Senior Winemaker where his great love for Rhone styles and varieties was nourished. Along the way, he’s enjoyed some humbling reward for his devotion.
All explorers need a base – a spiritual home. Ben’s is Victoria’s Yarra Valley, but his exploration goes well beyond. It is a global one – a true journey of discovery around the world.
Twitter: @bhexplore
Web: http://www.benhaineswine.com