Product Information
The Pierro Chardonnay 2023 is a remarkable expression of Margaret River’s terroir, crafted with exceptional care and precision. This wine blends power, elegance, and finesse in perfect harmony, offering a modern yet refined interpretation of the Pierro style. The fruit for this vintage is sourced from Pierro’s own vineyards in Willyabrup, renowned for their high-density plantings and rocky soils. The Gin-Gin clone, which comprises 90% of the fruit, continues to prove its exceptional ability to produce some of the finest Chardonnays in the region.
The grapes are handpicked, chilled, and whole-bunch pressed to ensure the purity of the fruit. Fermentation takes place in French oak barriques (44% new) for 12 months, with regular batonnage to enhance texture and complexity. The result is a Chardonnay with vibrant acidity, creamy texture, and a luxurious mouthfeel, all while maintaining a bright and youthful profile.
Maker
Pierro is a prestigious winery in Margaret River, Western Australia, founded by Dr. Michael Peterkin, whose passion for winemaking is rivaled only by his devotion to the land. Known for his meticulous approach and deep understanding of viticulture, Mike Peterkin has become one of the most respected winemakers in the region. Since its inception in the early 1980s, Pierro has been at the forefront of producing high-quality wines that exemplify the very best of Margaret River.
The winery's commitment to excellence is evident in every step of the process, from high-density vineyard planting to careful hand harvesting. Pierro’s wines are the result of a deep connection to the land and an unwavering focus on quality. The vineyards, located in Willyabrup, feature some of the oldest vines in the region, with an average age of 30 years, producing fruit with great concentration and complexity. With a focus on minimal intervention, Pierro allows the unique terroir of Margaret River to shine through in each bottle.
Philosophy
At Pierro, winemaking is both an art and a science, rooted in a deep respect for the land. The philosophy behind each vintage is grounded in sustainability, quality, and a commitment to showcasing the true character of the land. Pierro was one of the first wineries to introduce high-density planting in Margaret River, a technique that enhances fruit concentration and flavour intensity.
The winery's meticulous approach extends to every aspect of the process, from pruning and vine management to the careful harvesting of grapes at the optimal time. The emphasis on minimal intervention allows the natural expression of the fruit to come through, creating wines of incredible balance and complexity. Pierro’s wines are a true reflection of the region’s unique climate and soil, offering both elegance and power in every bottle.
Tasting Notes:
NOSE
Citrus, Peach, Vanilla
The nose is expressive and vibrant, with aromas of ripe citrus fruits such as lemon zest and lime, complemented by hints of peach and subtle vanilla from the oak maturation. There’s an underlying minerality that suggests the unique terroir of Margaret River.
PALATE
Rich, Elegant, Creamy
On the palate, this Chardonnay is full-bodied yet elegant, with layers of ripe melon, apricot, and a touch of honeycomb. The wine’s texture is creamy, thanks to malolactic fermentation, and is balanced by a fresh, crisp acidity that keeps the wine lively and vibrant.
FINISH
Long, Mineral, Balanced
The finish is clean and long, with mineral notes and a touch of oak that adds depth and structure. The wine’s acidity is well-integrated, ensuring that it’s both approachable now and capable of aging gracefully for years to come.
Reviews:
"This will sit alongside anything Peterkin has made in more than four decades as one of the finest winemakers in the region. It is a cracking good wine delivered with precision and power with a degree of delicacy and finesse that makes it so appealing. Incredible intensity on the nose with aromas of white peach and grapefruit with a little muted butterscotch in the background. The palate is powerful and drives with urgency through to a remarkably long finish. The oak is neatly interlaced, and the fresh acidity adds another dimension with its savoury chalky character." 'White Wine of the Year' - Ray Jordan - WA Wine Review 2025, 98 Points
Pierro Chardonnay be what Pierro Chardonnay be. But there’s a smidgen more finesse in this year’s release and, combined with Pierre’s trademark fruit power, the effect is quite the sensational. Pierro is one of the original (as in, it was the first) close-planted blocks in Margaret River, at 6000 vines per hectare.
Power up front; finesse through the finish. This makes well and truly sure that it has your attention and then it shows that it has both depth, and style. Pears, yellow peaches, grilled nuts and a creamy, smoky, nougat character. There’s an element of quartz to this wine, or of something stony, and it’s a part of its glory. This is a noted wine in noteworthy form. It finishes long. It’s compelling throughout. - Campbell Mattinson - The Wine Front, 96 Points
The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Chardonnay
Country - Australia
Region - Margaret River, Western Australia
Vintage - 2023
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 14%
Closure - Screw Cap
