Sanguine Estate’s winemaking team comprises Mark Hunter as the ‘hands on’ winemaker, assisted by Peter Dredge and from the 2005 vintage Ben Riggs as consultant and blending master. Ben Riggs is a valuable addition to the Sanguine Estate’s winemaking team and brings years of experience as well as fame of producing some of Australia’s finest wines.
Mark Hunter
The son of Linda and Tony Hunter, Mark commenced his involvement with the business in the vineyard as the viticulturist, but his natural creative flair soon saw him deeply involved with the winemaking process. He has been a hands-on winemaker since the inaugural 2000 Shiraz release and has personally created and crafted the Estate’s Tempranillo, Classic Quattro and Chardonnay wines.
Peter Dredge
Peter crafts his “Red Edge” wines at the Sanguine Estate Winery and assists Mark with the technical advice and trouble shooting.
In 1997 Peter purchased one of the Heathcote's oldest vineyards and has been producing wine under his own label "Red Edge" ever since. He has won numerous awards and medals and is known as one of Heathcote's finest winemakers.
Ben Riggs and Sanguine
Ben Riggs list of achievements in the wine industry are legendary; Tatiarra, Wirra Wirra, Penny’s Hill, Mr. Riggs, Black Chook, Zontes Footsteps, Journey’s End and more. As the Sanguine business grew it became evident a Blending Master with a fine palate was required to select from the many batches of Shiraz ferments from Estate grown grapes.
Ben’s involvement started at the blending table with our 2005 Shiraz and now encompasses all aspects of winemaking at the Sanguine Winery. We feel very privileged to have Ben guiding the team.