Desert Heart Estate

Our philosophy is to let the fruit “speak for itself”. We believe our wine should express that what is in the bottle is not just processed grapes, but the product of the culture and care that created it.

The dream of Denny and Jane to live, develop a vineyard and a wine business in Central Otago became a reality when they established the Desert Heart Estate on Felton Road in Bannockburn, in 1999.

Our grapes are grown on vineyards selected to display the bright fruit characteristics of Central Otago grown Pinot Noir and used to create a wine that is a true reflection of that and the people who care for them. Our Renaissance Vineyard with Cellar Door and Cellar Door Cafe continues our adventure and love affair with the area. The land offers the quintessential ‘Heart of the Desert’ experience in the timeless and immense landscape. Sweeping vistas of the mountains, river and gold sluicing add to the dramatic panorama.

The vineyards are managed by Denny who embraces the philosophy of organics and permaculture to ensure the land is used in a stable, sustainable way while maintaining the natural order of our physical environment.

She engages in practices that sustain the health of the soil and the ecosystem – both above and below the ground. Organic viticulture relies on ecological procedures, biodiversity and cycles modified to the Bannockburn conditions. This provides healthy vines, healthy grapes and (in theory) remarkable wines.