Coming from an iconic winemaking family in Australia, Ben Glaetzer represents a new generation of winemakers combining technical mastery with a deep respect for old vines. Based in Barossa Valley, he focuses on characterful yet always balanced wines, produced in limited quantities.

Origins and Philosophy

The Glaetzer family has been active in Australian viticulture since the 1880s. Ben founded his own estate in the early 2000s, with the idea of showcasing the old, non-irrigated vines of northern Barossa, often over 80 years old. His approach combines precise vinifications, careful aging, and a pursuit of controlled intensity.

Winemaking Methods

The harvest is manual, the grapes are destemmed without crushing, with a long fermentation to preserve the purity of the fruit. Aging is done in French and American oak barrels, new or second-use, depending on the wine's structure.

Iconic Cuvées

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  Amon-Ra: 100% Shiraz, structured, dense, complex, the flagship of the estate.

  
  
  
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  Anaperenna: Shiraz/Cabernet blend, deep and velvety.

  
  
  
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  Wallace: Shiraz/Grenache, more accessible, fruity, and generous.

  
  
  
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  Bishop: Shiraz from a single vineyard, concentrated and spicy.

  
  
  
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  Heartland (parallel project): wines from Langhorne Creek at an affordable price.

  
  
  

Style and Recognition

Ben Glaetzer's wines have impressed international critics, notably Robert Parker, for their richness, precision, and aging potential. Amon-Ra is regularly cited as one of the greatest Shiraz wines in Australia. The Glaetzer style is distinguished by its elegant power, controlled extraction, and a modern interpretation of the Barossa terroir.