2004 Pierro Chardonnay

Pierro Chardonnay almost did not exist - it was an act of fate that proved to be successful beyond winemaking / medico, Mike Peterkin's imagination. Peterkin initially had hoped to specialize in Riesling, however, his nursery supplier was badly let down with the cancellation of a 5000 vine order of Chardonnay, which he then offered to Mike at a substantial discount.  The result has been that since 1980, the Pierro Chardonnay has attained great success.

Pierro Chardonnays have been recognised as amongst Australia's best, often compared with the great wines of Leeuwin Art Series.

The Chardonnay vineyard is planted with 95% Gin Gin clone which has proved to be very successful in the Margaret River district.  The high density vineyard consists of narrow rows of vines planted in rocky soils and orientated West and North. Peterkin adapts a scientific approach to vineyard management with maximum fruit, leaf and canopy exposure to sunlight, and he is not afraid to give the vines a good watering, mimicking a summer rainfall rather than using drip by drip irrigation. 

A superb, complex Chardonnay.

Brilliant deep straw colour with pale straw hue. Lifted nose of hazelnut, butterscotch and cashew followed by a toasted oak end note. The secondary aroma and flavour characteristics dominate this wine. Mouthfilling, creamy texture showing great concentration. Seamless layers of hazelnut, cashew, biscuit and yeast lees over a toasted oak background. The palate displays excellent length and persistence. Clean acid finish with perfect balance and very long aftertaste of hazelnut, yeast lees and citrus.
Cellar: 3-4 years (2009-2010)
Alc/Vol: 13.5%

Other Reviews...
Complex yet elegant, reflecting multiple winemaker inputs; nectarine, fig, cashew and cream; great balance.
Rating 94
Drink 2012
"James Halliday - 2007 Australian Wine Companion"