Scott Heidrich is one of South Australia’s most experienced and respected winemakers, with over three decades of hands-on expertise across the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale. He began his career in the Barossa, working with Orlando and Yalumba before formalising his craft with a degree in Oenology from Roseworthy Agricultural College. In 1993, Scott moved south to McLaren Vale to join Geoff Merrill Wines, where he remains winemaker to this day. Over the years, Scott and Geoff have crafted some of Australia’s most celebrated wines, earning the industry’s highest accolades, including the Jimmy Watson Trophy and the title of outright winner of the Great Australian Shiraz Challenge. In 2009, Scott launched his own label, Rusty Mutt Wines, which achieved critical acclaim, export success in the UK and China, and a loyal following for its distinctive style and character.

Today, Scott has distilled his philosophy of winemaking into his most personal project yet: Vin Sōl. Every Vin Sōl wine is made from McLaren Vale fruit, a region Scott has come to love deeply over more than three decades of working its vineyards. He believes great wines are born in the vineyard, and his role is to bring out the purest character of each site. Beyond the winery, Scott shares his knowledge generously. He is a regular judge for two amateur winemaking clubs and serves as the patron of the Adelaide Amateur Winemakers and Brewers Club, where he supports the next generation of winemakers. His commitment to community extends further as a member of the City of Adelaide Lions Club, where he takes part in volunteer activities and lends his expertise to policies and procedures shaped by his professional experience. With Vin Sōl, Scott is unveiling his opus: wines that are modern, visually striking, and built on a lifetime of knowledge, experience, and passion.