In 2021, born and raised South African Marc van Halderen took the reins at Heggies Vineyard.
Marc is a well-travelled and experienced winemaker, dabbling in sparkling, red and white wines in South Africa, France and now Australia. Marc received his Diploma with Honours in Winemaking and Cellar Technology in 2004 from Elsenburg Winemaking College in Stellenbosch, South Africa. He kicked off his career in 2005 with a vintage at Steenberg Winery in the renowned region of Constantia, South Africa. After this exciting vintage, he landed a full time role at a boutique and prestigious start up vineyard development and winery project called La Vierge Wines, in the Walker Bay, South Africa. Marc was instrumental in the planning, planting, growing and eventual winemaking of vines to boutique wines from 2005 through to 2012. It was in this the Valley of Heaven and Earth that Marc’s affinity for purity and elegance in Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Shiraz and bottle-fermented sparkling wines began.
Further vintages in Burgundy at Domaine Jacques Prieur in 2006 and Loire at Domaine Henry Pelle 2007 saw some fantastic old world experience added to his repertoire.
After eight successful vintages and a chance meeting with a Sydney-sider, he decided it was time to emigrate afield to an opportunity in the Barossa with Yalumba and Hill-Smith Family Vineyards. Vintage 2013 turned into a full time position on the winemaking team, assisting closely with sparkling wines and Barossa reds.
Embracing local culture, sport and friends he now lives in Angaston with his wife Carolyn, brand new son Maxwell James and two well-travelled cats, Yasmin and Skye. He loves watching the Baggy Greens and the Wallabies on the cricket and rugby fields, except for when they play the South African national sides. Otherwise, you’ll find him winding down with friends over a meal and glass of wine on the back patio.
Got questions for Marc? Get in touch with us!
