Winemaker

Jeanneret Wines

The son of self-starter Denis, Ben Jeanneret sticks to a philosophy of very truth-in-the variety winemaking. As he states on his web site: "I am not too fussed if nature beats me and wild yeasts begin the ferments. I encourage minimal handling of the juice, allowing the ferments to progress in a slow and easy manner."

Ben uses no river water to irrigate his vineyards, and bravely lets that wild yeast talk in his wines, adding fragrant ripples to his Riesling. Picking up trophies as early as 1996, that Riesling speaks volumes about Ben's approach being right for the wine, and led to he and partner Carissa represent Jeanneret at the Young Winemakers Tasting, Toronto in 2003. One of only three labels selected to participate.

Recently, the 2008 Doozie Riesling picked up Gold at the London International Wine Challenge, proving Ben's approach is no passing fad. Just good fruit talking in the glass, as it should be.

Mr Riggs, Penny's Hill, Woop Woop, Zonte’s Footstep

We often joke that there must be more than one Ben Riggs, that no one winemaker could have his hands in such a range of premium McLaren Vale wineries. And yet, after thorough research (we asked) he has not cloned himself.

With 14 years making wine at Wirra Wirra alone, Ben's experience totals a quarter century of producing notable wines, including Penny's Hill, Tatiarra, and Cazal Viel in France. But his real love for McLaren Vale remains, and along with Tony Parkinson, he has crafted successful brands like Woop Woop and his own Mr. Riggs.

With such a broad portfolio, Ben picks up awards with regularity. Twice named Bushing King (for making the best wine at the McLaren Vale Wine Show), and winning the first two Great Australian Shiraz Challenges. His wines have also won best in show at the Sydney International Top 100 (1991 Wirra Wirra "Angelus").