Harman Wines

David Harman has a background in IT, so in the past all of his work was measured and somewhat predictable. Now? His work is at the mercy of Mother Nature and her unexplainable flux from day-to-day and vintage-to-vintage.

David and his wife Nicole grow and make wine at their 10-acre Wattle Bank property, Harman Wines. The land was previously a horse stud. When they took over, the first thing they did was let it rest and recover for a few years.

They planted their first grapes in 2010 – a small nursery block of pinot noir and chardonnay. They now have 4.5 acres of vines, and also source from other growers in the region. In the vineyard, they draw on organic and biodynamic practices, and try to minimise chemical adjustments in the winery.

On weekends, the property is busy with people in for tastings or leisurely lunches, and kids playing cricket on the lawn. The Harmans have fostered a real community vibe. It comes most easily on Sundays, when shareable wood-fired pizzas are on the menu. They also serve beer and cider for non-wine drinkers, and stock locally made ice-cream and sorbet for dessert.

Explore Gippsland further using our detailed Out of Town to the Gippsland Coast guide.