Wine Region Multi Regional, SA Wine Maker Dean Hewitson Dean Hewitson is a highly energetic, passionate man who has created a solid name for himself in a pretty quick time. During his ten years at Petaluma as a winemaker, he also squeezed in a vintage in Oregon and three in France as well as completing his Masters at UC Davis in California.   In 1996 he decided to go it alone. But rather than purchasing vineyards, Hewitson made the savvy business decision to create long-term associations with a network of established growers, allowing him to seek out specific varietals from suitable areas. Eventually he decided to specialise in reds from the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale, and Riesling from Eden Valley.   Hewitson is dedicated to producing traditionally-made, expressive wines from the great vineyards that exist in the premium winemaking regions of South Australia. These regions are the Barossa Valley, Eden Valley, McLaren Vale, Adelaide Hills and stretching to the bottom of the Fleurieu Peninsula. Geographically these regions are collectively known as The Adelaide Super Zone. This is Hewitson's back yard.   From the beginning Hewitson has combined Old-World winemaking techniques with New-World knowledge and understanding. The importance of great wine requiring great oak is significant for Hewitson. All the red wines finish fermentation in French oak barrels especially made and imported. Each vineyard is specifically kept separate throughout fermentation and maturation to preserve its terroir, or unique character.   Wines are made from 30 year old Riesling from Eden Valley, 70 year old Shiraz from McLaren Vale and 152 year old Mourvedre from Barossa Valley. Each unique wine created by Dean Hewitson is crafted to reflect true varietal characters and regional purity. Hewitson is based on the edge of Adelaide's CBD at the Old Dairy Cold Stores. Built in the late 1800s with thick, cork-lined walls and a naturally cool environment, the Old Dairy is perfect for the cellaring and maturation of fine wine.   Hewitson is considered in the top echelon of Australian wineries. Oh and by the way he is also a pretty entertaining bastard as well!   What the critics have to say! Where do you begin??? Follow the link directly to source http://www.hewitson.com.au/page.php?section=792&sort=author