|
  
HeronLake’s philosophy is simple - create uncompromisingly fine wines. They accomplish this by using only estate-grown fruit, produced under the very best viticultural practices which complement and emphasize the unique nature of Heron Lake Estate.
HeronLake is one of the oldest vineyards in the Margaret River appellation, situated near the tiny hamlet of Vasse, about 30km north of Margaret River township. The site began life as a potato farm and dairy cattle grazing area before the first vines were planted in the early 1980’s.
The property was acquired in late 2001 by Di and Rob Goodwin, both keen wine-lovers with a passion for producing only quality wines they would buy and enjoy themselves. It is this passion and attention to detail that in 2002 saw big changes at Heron Lake, establishing a strong platform for rigorous viticultural practices to take advantage of the unique characteristics of this property.
Heron Lake sits on very fertile well drained and watered, loamy sands beside a beautiful lake and wetlands, that are host to a multitude of Australian native birds and animals. The site consequently presents significant advantages and challenges to the production of fine wine. The natural vigor of the vines in such a situation requires constant canopy and fruit management to enhance the fruit quality.
Lyndsay Williams is Vineyard Manager and shares the owners’ passion and commitment to quality. He is a strong advocate of environmentally responsible viticultural practices, in keeping with Heron Lake’s proximity to fragile wetlands. Their vastly experienced winemaker Frank Kittler, who enjoys the respect of the Margaret River wine community is also involved. Frank oversaw the completion of their first vintage in 2002, and continues to produce fine wines for the Heron Lake label.
Heron Lake Estate with its lake, wetlands and large number of deciduous trees is one of the most beautiful vineyards in the region. The lake fills to capacity in winter and plays host to vast numbers of wild ducks, spoonbills, water fowl and magnificent herons. In summer the lake shrinks to a quarter of its full size and in some very dry summers, actually disappears completely. The resident pest controllers, Guinea Fowl, take care of the uninvited insect armies in the vineyards, while bird nets, scarecrows and flags discourage the voracious feathered dwellers from the wetlands.
James Halliday, Australia's pre-eminent wine critic and writer has just awarded Heron Lake Estate 4.5 stars overall, placing it in the top 15% of Australian wineries. He awarded their 2004 Chardonnay the full 5 stars, their 2004 Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc 4.5 stars and their 2004 Shiraz 4 stars – an outstanding accomplishment for new comers into the fiercely competitive Australian wine industry.
  
|
contact us 
AussieWinesOnline.com is a secure website using SSL Encryption for all transactions.