Wine Hub legacy lives on

NEW Heathcote Wine Hub operators Karen Robertson and Carey Moncrieff plan to continue the legacy created by its previous owners, having opened last weekend.

“We are hoping to continue where Toby and Kate left off and we have some great plans for the hub,” said Mr Moncrieff.

Ms Robertson and Mr Moncrieff are former high school teachers who were looking for a change after decades in the classroom.

“We’ve been together for two years and wanted to do something together,” said Ms Robertson.

“We have an off-grid eight-acre property in Glenhope East, so when the Wine Hub came up for sale it provided a great opportunity.”

Although neither has previously worked in the wine industry they do have some connections.

“I’m an enthusiastic drinker,” said Mr Moncrieff, “and I have friends who know a lot about wine.

“We’ve been on a lot of motorcycle weekends visiting wineries, and I learned a lot from them.”

Ms Robertson’s late father was a keen wine collector who taught her a lot, and the couple have been honing their skills since committing to buy the venue.

“We’ve been visiting all the local wineries and soaking up the information like sponges,” said Ms Robertson.

“We discovered the difference between fruit grown north and south of the town and all the different varieties now grown and produced in the area.

“All our stock comes from locally grown fruit and producers.”

The Wine Hub is situated in a former Presbyterian Church building which has also been used as a gallery and live performance venue.

“There are so many possibilities for us to expand the premises,” said Ms Robertson.

“Carey is a keen craftsman who is making tables and seats for the front courtyard so customers can enjoy coffee or wine outside on sunny days.

“Inside the building also provides lots of opportunities and we have a wonderful builder who is ready to help us.”

The couple enjoyed a busy first weekend with return and new customers calling in.

“We have had a wonderful welcome from the community,” said Mr Moncrieff.

“Toby’s extensive knowledge was valued by customers, and we plan to continue what he and Kate started.

“We offer a boutique experience, and, like Toby, I enjoy a chat with travellers and locals alike.

“Customers can continue to order artisan breads for pick-up on Fridays and we offer taste testing and sales of local wines.

“Toby and Kate were really helpful in getting us started, as were the Winegrowers Association and the Visitors Centre.

“We look forward to meeting everyone and being a part of the community.”

The Heathcote Wine Hub is at 146 High Street, Heathcote.