Each varietal was chosen for its unique aromatic and flavor component – Verdelho for richness and acidity, Viognier for body and texture and Semillon for its vibrant and zesty citrus characters. Flavors of white nectarine and apricot kernel are balanced by a crisp natural acidity on the finish.

Heartland Wines is the brainchild of winemaker Ben Glaetzer. Founded in 2002, Heartland produces wines that highlight the unique terroir and characteristics of Langhorne Creek and the Limestone Coast, two of Southern Australia’s most highly regarded wine appellations. Ben is the second generation of a celebrated Australian wine dynasty that began with his father Colin. As winemaker for Glaetzer’s Wines, Ben continues a 30+ year tradition of producing elite Shiraz, including Australia’s iconic Amon-Ra. Ben is passionate about wine and exploring the differences in terroir – ergo, his multiple winemaking responsibilities at Glaetzer, Mitolo, Woodstock and Heartland. Heartland owns 1,000 acres of mature vineyards in Langhorne Creek and the Limestone Coast that are planted to sandy loam soils and/or grey marl over deep limestone. With these estate-grown grapes, Ben produces three different ranges: the modestly priced Stickleback, the mid-priced Coast and Creek range and the premium Director’s Cut Reserve. This tiered approach was deliberately crafted to ”give the drinker stepping stones…and making each level deliver more quality than its price would suggest,” says Ben. ”My aspiration is to allow anyone who buys one of my wines, irrespective of it as price point, to see a snap shot of my vineyards, vintage and history.”

Technical notes

(49% Verdelho/31% Semillon/20% Viognier). Fruit sourced from 16 year old vines was fermented at cool temperatures on its lees in stainless steel.