Brash Higgins

At Brash Higgins, traditional methods meet modern vision, creating wines that truly express their terroir.


A Story of Shared Passion

Brash Higgins is the lovechild of Brad Hickey and McLaren Vale vigneron Nicole Thorpe. Together, they craft wines in tiny quantities, emphasizing finesse and texture. Their artisanal approach extends to the tasting experience, where Brad personally welcomes visitors to share his passion. The tastings, lasting approximately two hours, offer a true immersion into the estate: visits to the organic Omensetter Vineyard, discovery of the valley's unique geology, and tastings in their inner sanctum. At certain times of the year, visitors have the privilege of tasting Nero d'Avola and Zibibbo wines directly from the clay amphoras during their aging process.

Winemaking Philosophy & Techniques

Brad's approach centers on minimal intervention and maximum expression. The cornerstone of his technique is the use of amphoras (clay vessels) for fermentation and aging, a method dating back thousands of years. These handmade vessels, sourced from master craftsmen, allow the wines to develop complex characteristics while maintaining fruit purity.
The winery's commitment to sustainable practices includes organic farming, hand-harvesting, and indigenous yeast fermentation. Each wine is crafted to reflect both its varietal character and McLaren Vale's unique terroir, with careful attention to picking times and gentle handling of the fruit.

Signature Wines

NERO: The flagship wine showcases Nero d'Avola, traditionally from Sicily, brilliantly adapted to McLaren Vale's climate. Fermented and aged in amphora, it displays rich dark fruits, Mediterranean herbs, and distinctive textural complexity.
NDV: A unique expression of Nero d'Avola, featuring extended skin contact in amphora, creating a wine of depth and character with notes of black cherry, spice, and earth.
BLOOM: A groundbreaking orange wine made from Chardonnay, showcasing Brad's innovative approach. Extended skin contact in amphora brings texture and complexity while maintaining freshness.
ZBO: An aromatic white wine made from Zibibbo (Muscat of Alexandria), offering floral notes and fresh acidity. The amphora aging adds distinctive mineral qualities and texture.
OMENSETTER: A premium Shiraz that captures McLaren Vale's essence, showing powerful dark fruits and spice while maintaining elegance and balance.
GR/M: A fresh, modern take on Grenache/Mataro blend, demonstrating the region's ability to produce refined, medium-bodied reds.

Terroir & Vineyards

The vineyards, located in McLaren Vale's premium growing areas, benefit from Mediterranean climate influences and diverse soil types. The proximity to the Gulf St. Vincent provides cooling breezes that help maintain acidity and freshness in the wines.
Sustainable practices are at the core of vineyard management, with careful attention to soil health and biodiversity. The vines are dry-grown where possible, encouraging deep root systems and authentic terroir expression.

Recognition & Legacy

Brash Higgins has earned critical acclaim for its innovative approach and wine quality. The wines have received numerous accolades from leading wine critics and publications, cementing Brad's position as one of Australia's most forward-thinking winemakers.
Brash Higgins represents a perfect fusion of ancient techniques and modern understanding. Each wine tells a story of place, tradition, and innovation, offering wine lovers a unique perspective on McLaren Vale's potential.