History of Pierro Estate
Pierro was founded by Dr. Mike Peterkin in 1979, a visionary who combined his medical background with a passion for winemaking. Peterkin was one of the early pioneers in Margaret River, a region that has since become one of Australia’s premier wine-producing areas. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, Peterkin planted the vineyard on the rolling hills of the Willyabrup Valley, utilizing high-density planting and advanced viticultural techniques to ensure low yields and high-quality fruit.
Dr. Peterkin’s dedication to producing world-class wines led him to study under some of the great winemakers of Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Alsace, bringing those influences back to Pierro. Over the years, Pierro has gained a reputation for its meticulous approach to winemaking, from hand-picking and sorting grapes to using a combination of traditional and modern techniques in the cellar. The estate remains family-owned, with a focus on producing wines that reflect the unique terroir of Margaret River.
Region and Vineyards
Pierro is located in the Willyabrup Valley within the Margaret River region, which is celebrated for its Mediterranean climate, cooling sea breezes, and gravelly loam soils. The region’s ideal conditions for viticulture include long, warm days and cool nights, which help to preserve acidity and build complexity in the grapes. Pierro’s vineyards are densely planted, ensuring competition among vines that results in lower yields and more concentrated flavors.
The estate spans 40 hectares, with vines that are predominantly over 30 years old. The vineyard’s close proximity to the Indian Ocean provides a maritime influence that moderates temperature and extends the growing season, allowing for a slow and even ripening of the fruit. The meticulous care in the vineyard, including organic and sustainable practices, ensures that only the highest quality grapes are harvested.
Wine Range
Pierro produces a range of wines that showcase the diversity and quality of the Margaret River terroir. The flagship wine is the Pierro Chardonnay, renowned for its balance, complexity, and elegance. It is often considered one of Australia’s best Chardonnays, combining fruit purity with subtle oak influence and a long, mineral finish.
The estate also produces exceptional Bordeaux-style blends, such as the Pierro Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot and the LTCf (Little Touch of Cabernet Franc). These wines are characterized by their aromatic complexity, structured tannins, and the ability to age gracefully.
Pierro also offers a delightful Semillon Sauvignon Blanc blend, known for its freshness and vibrant acidity, making it a favorite among white wine enthusiasts.
Did you know?
Pierro's founder, Dr. Mike Peterkin, was instrumental in developing the "SBS" blend (Semillon Sauvignon Blanc) in Margaret River, a style that has become one of the region’s signatures. His innovative approach and commitment to quality have left a lasting impact on the Australian wine industry.
