Damien Sheehan
VINEYARD VIRTUOSO
In the historic Grampians wine region, home to pioneers of Australian wine, Damien is blazing his own trail in the vineyards of award-winning Mount Langi Ghiran
.
In the early 1990s, Damien visited the Mount Langi Ghiran winery and fell for its uniquely Australian landscape and elegant, cool-climate wines. He was early in his career as a physiotherapist but soon realised it wasn’t for him and decided to study viticulture and winemaking instead. Today he’s the viticulturist and general manager at the winery that won his heart all those years ago, where he’s giving back to the community and innovating in a changing climate.
Taking a historic vineyard into the future
Damien’s dream came true when he joined Mount Langi Ghiran as viticulturist in 1996 – and he’s been there ever since. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Victoria’s Great Dividing Range, and first planted in the 1800s, this is one of Australia’s most unique vineyard sites.
“I don’t think I could go anywhere else,” says Damien. “It’s a beautiful environment and I get to work with an amazing vineyard.”
Damien has since added General Manager to his job title. He’s also highly involved in the broader wine community and was previously Chair of Wine Victoria. Contributing to the community is an important part of his work.
“We’ve had people working here for well over 25 years, and so we’ve had their kids come through and work here,” says Damien. “That sense of family and community make it an important industry for the region, and I really appreciate that side of it too. My father was involved in giving back to the community, so I think that’s something that’s just natural for me.”
Beneath towering cliffs, Damien has worked hard to produce top-quality fruit, especially Mount Langi Ghiran’s renowned cool-climate Shiraz. He takes a scientific approach, introducing new ways to manage the soil and the vines, and helping the vineyards adapt to a changing climate.
“You’ve got to be focused on how you’re going to make things different and better,” he says. “I think we’re all aware that the climate’s changing and it’s become quite challenging growing grapes … And I think it’s amazing how we, as an industry, have been able to adapt.”
Damien has spent more than two decades getting to know every vine, but there’s always more to do.
“Every season’s different, and there’s just so much to learn, to keep on challenging myself,” he says.
“You’ve got to be focused on how you’re going to make things different and better.” – Damien Sheehan
Disclaimer
This information is presented in good faith and on the basis that Wine Australia, nor their agents or employees, are liable (whether by reason of error, omission, negligence, lack of care or otherwise) to any person for any damage or loss whatsoever which has occurred or may occur in relation to that person taking or not taking (as the case may be) action in respect of any statement, information or advice given via this channel.
