Award-winning Australian winemaker Ben Riggs partnered with former Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting in 2019 to chase a new pursuit of celebrity wines with the launch of Ponting Wines.
The collaboration is more than another celebrity-endorsed moment, sure it’s a chance to celebrate Ponting’s achievements on the field, but the final drop is perfectly captured via the excellence that comes with being a well-respected winemaker like Mr. Riggs.
With more than 35 years-experience in the winemaking business, Ben Riggs, or Mr. Riggs as he is affectionately known, has spent two decades consulting with other wine companies, and with countless decades of vintages at McLaren Vale’s Wirra Wirra under his belt, also founded his own wine label Mr Riggs Wine Co. back in 2001.
He’s logged more than 47 vintages over the years and spoke to The Write Drop for our At The Bar series.
You’ll also find Ponting Wines at the Melbourne Good Food & Wine Show (May 30 – June 2).
MY CITY
McLaren Vale, South Australia. Great climate, close to beaches, amazing produce and close enough to the airport to make travel simple.
FAVOURITE FOOD MEMORY
A small unnamed trattoria in Barolo near Alba. Had a White Truffle degustation menu which was absolutely incredible.
FAVOURITE BAR
Bad Dog Adelaide. The best Whisky Sours on the planet.
DRINK THAT DESCRIBES YOU
Kabinett Riesling – Elegance, finesse and perfume. Structure and power yet delicate and light.
BEST HANGOVER CURE
The original and the best, Bacon and Eggs.
BEST INTERSTATE BAR
Bar Bambi, Melbourne. Eclectic crowd, open until very late.
OVERSEAS BAR
Willy’s Wine Bar – Paris.
FAVOURITE WINE
2000 Krug for my 50th birthday celebration was one of my most memorable.
FAVOURITE WINERY
Ruinart in Reims.
