The Heritage Estate Wines Family
Meet the people responsible for our vineyards and winery.
Stephen Oliver
Supervising Winemaker and Viticulturist
Finalist in the Young Winemaker of the Year, and many awards for his wines, Stephen started at Heritage in 2001 and rejoined again as Head Winemaker in 2021. Qld Rural Fire Services Rural Operations Deputy Chief for the Granite Belt, Stephen has seen lots of action to save Stanthorpe in 2019. Wine, fire and his beautiful herd of speckle park cattle, are Stephen’s passions.
Therese Fenwick
Owner and Chief Titratist!
Robert Fenwick
Owner and aspiring tractor boy
Robert is co-owner of Heritage Estate Wines, with a background in GIS (mapping) and science. Raised on a farm, Rob has bought science to the vineyard with groundbreaking drone bird scaring, vineyard/winery management software and a whole host of farming improvements, including sustainability and eco status for the winery.
Gillian Heathcote
Assistant Winemaker
Originally trained at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, Gillian brings a deep understanding of oenology and viticulture to Heritage Estate. Passionate about crafting exceptional cool-climate wines, she works closely with our winemaker, Stephen Oliver, to refine and perfect each vintage. Sponsored by Heritage Estate, Gillian has embraced life in the Granite Belt, where she enjoys gardening, socialising, and immersing herself in the local wine community. Her dedication to both the science and artistry of winemaking makes her an invaluable part of our team..
Marc Simpson
Cellar Manager, Sommelier & Restaurant Manager
With a refined palate and a wealth of expertise, Marc Simpson is the driving force behind our elevated tastings at Heritage Estate. As our esteemed Cellar Manager, Sommelier, and Restaurant Manager, he curates an exceptional wine experience, seamlessly blending technical knowledge with an innate passion for fine wines and impeccable service. A true Renaissance man, Marc’s talents extend far beyond the cellar. An electrician by trade, he is also a skilled artisan—crafting intricate metalwork, mastering various musical instruments, and engaging in an array of creative pursuits. His dedication to craftsmanship, whether in the winery, kitchen, or workshop, reflects his commitment to excellence in all he does. Join Marc for an unforgettable tasting journey, where each sip is enriched by his deep knowledge, engaging storytelling, and a touch of artistic flair.
Tomer Kimelman
Head Chef -Cottonvale, Stanthorpe
With a deep passion for cooking, food, and hospitality, Tomer Kimelman brings a wealth of global culinary experience to Heritage Estate. Having worked in renowned restaurants and boutique dining establishments, he has honed his skills in fine dining, wine pairing, and precision cooking under high-pressure environments. His background includes roles as a line cook, kitchen manager, and bartender, allowing him to develop a well-rounded approach to both food preparation and guest experience. Trained in Italian cuisine at Le Cordon Bleu Florence, Tomer blends classical techniques with innovative flavors. At Heritage Estate, he is excited to create dishes that complement our award-winning wines, offering guests an unforgettable dining experience.!
Rob Mandavy
Viturculture
Rob has lived on the Granite Belt for many years and has an affinity with agriculture and the growing of grapes. He is a great strength as well as being gentle with the baby vines. In his spare time, Rob continues to spend time outdoors.
Sean Williams
Viticulture
Sean is responsible for our Ballandean vineyard and works on the vine nursury, vine maintenance and vine improvement and vineyard restoration. He has a long history in agriculture and vineyards. In his spare time he tends to his many tractors.
Jeff Buchanan
Viticulture
Jeff is strong and capable in both the vineyard and on building and maintenance projects. Jeff’s great love of motor cars also gives him opportunity to assist with farm equipment.
Our Team
Hospitality
Our constant team of professionals and high school students support Heritage at events, weekends and holidays.