Our Team

  • Kaitlin Petney

    Winemaker / Director

    Kaitlin grew up amongst the vineyards of High Eden Estate and began her winemaking journey at just 18 years of age, completing her first vintage at Peter Lehmann Wines in the Barossa Valley in 2017. It was here that she discovered her passion for the wine industry. After returning for a second vintage at Peter Lehmann Wines in 2020, Kaitlin enrolled in the Bachelor of Viticulture & Oenology at the University of Adelaide.

    In 2021, Kaitlin was awarded the prestigious Elderton Winemaking Excellence Scholarship. Under the mentorship of Brock Harrison and Jules Ashmead, she completed Vintage 2024 with Elderton Wines in the Barossa Valley—an experience that became a defining highlight of her career. She returned to Elderton as Vintage Winemaker in 2025.

    Following the completion of her study in 2024, Kaitlin produced the inaugural High Eden Estate wine: a 2024 Eden Valley Riesling crafted from a small parcel of hand-picked fruit grown on the Estate vineyard.

    Kaitlin is currently the Assistant Winemaker at Pikes Wines in the Clare Valley, where she continues to refine her winemaking skills while working with one of Australia's most respected Riesling producers. Alongside her role at Pikes, she leads the winemaking direction at High Eden Estate as Estate Winemaker.

    Her passion lies in exploring and cultivating cool-climate alternative varieties that authentically express the unique terroir of the High Eden region. This vision has led to the establishment of a new vineyard block planted to Gamay, Sangiovese and Syrah in Spring 2024, laying the foundation for the next chapter of High Eden Estate.

    Kaitlin has become the driving force behind High Eden Estate's winemaking philosophy, combining innovation with a deep respect for the vineyard to produce elegant, site-driven wines that reflect the character of this remarkable region.

  • Deborah Petney

    Owner / Director / Property Manager

    Deb is passionate about promoting biodiversity and sustainability in our vineyards and surrounding farmland.

    With a deep commitment to enhancing natural ecosystems, Deb works closely with the team to ensure that our farming practices not only produce high quality fruit but also protect and nurture the environment.

    Her dedication to sustainable agriculture helps us create a balanced ecosystem that supports healthy vines, encourages wildlife and minimises our environmental impact, aligning with the long-term vision for a greener, more sustainable future.

  • Mark Petney

    Owner / Director / Vineyard Manager

    As the vineyard manager, Mark oversees all daily operations in the vineyard, ensuring every aspect of vine care and farm maintenance is handled with precision and expertise. From pruning and canopy management to irrigation and spray application, Mark’s hands-on approach ensure the vines thrive under optimal conditions.

    His commitment to quality and attention to detail are essential in producing the premium fruit that forms foundation of our wines.

    Mark’s deep understanding of the land and dedication to its care ensure both the vineyard and farm are managed sustainably and efficiently.