113 The Gurdies Winery…The story so far

PHOTOS BY DOUG PELL

PHOTO SUPPLIED BY GURDIES WINERY

The Gurdies Story So Far…

In 2012, Wendy Heaney and Bruce Preston moved to The Gurdies buying a property next to the family farm. The property came with a little over an acre of diseased grape vines. Ignoring advice from several wine makers in the area to bulldoze the vines and start again, Bruce rolled up his sleeves and took on the challenge to turn these vines around and make a go of it. With the help and advice from our neighbour Dick Wettenhall from The Gurdies Winery, the vines started to improve and in 2015 Heaston Estate was established. That same ye, one of our black Angus cows gave birth to twins. Two heifers, one black and one red. In a herd of black cattle, the little red one named Ginge, stood out in the paddock and in our hearts. The cow on our label is a tribute to Ginge.

It’s Ours

In September 2020 we bought The Gurdies Winery, bringing the two properties back to one again. Since then the Cellar Door has endured many changes, transforming into a comfy, rustic meeting place where locals and travelers come to relax, take in our magnificent views and enjoy some of our wines.

In November 2021 we nervously held our first wedding at the winery, this turned out to be the first of many.

Coming Up

The success of our outdoor function area (perfect for Summer weddings, birthdays, etc.), has prompted us to start planning a purpose built private function room, separate to the main Cellar Door. Once complete, the function room will be available for Weddings, birthdays, corporate events and more, with a commercial kitchen available for external caterers to use.

We cater for the whole family at The Gurdies Winery, so bring the kids and take time out to enjoy a glass of wine, while taking in our truly magnificent breathtaking view.

A perfect backdrop for every occasion.