Pimpernel Vineyards

Pimpernel Vineyards, nestled in the heart of Victoria's renowned Yarra Valley, offers wine enthusiasts a unique and intimate experience that showcases old-world winemaking traditions with a distinctly Australian twist.

Location and History

Situated in Coldstream, Pimpernel Vineyards was founded in 2001 by Mark and Fiona Horrigan. The winery's name carries a touch of European heritage, as Mark is a direct descendant of the Chapuis family, lords of Condrieu in France. This connection to Old World wine regions has significantly influenced Pimpernel's winemaking philosophy.

Vineyard and Winemaking Philosophy

Pimpernel Vineyards stands out for its commitment to traditional viticultural practices:

• Dry-grown: One of the few non-irrigated vineyards in the Yarra Valley

• Hand-tended: Each vine is individually monitored and cared for

• Low-yield: Vines are pruned back to promote low fruit sets, ensuring intense flavors

The winery's approach is inspired by the great wines and traditions of Burgundy, Rhône, and Loire Valleys. Winemaker Damien Archibald, who joined in 2008, employs minimal intervention techniques to produce elegant wines that express the unique terroir of Pimpernel.

Wines

Despite its small size of only 6 hectares, Pimpernel conducts over 50 separate small-batch fermentations annually. This meticulous approach allows for a diverse range of wines, including:

• Classic Yarra Valley varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Shiraz

• Less common varieties: Chenin Blanc, Viognier, Marsanne

• Blends: GSM (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre)

• Specialty wines: Fortified Muscat

Cellar Door Experience

Pimpernel offers an intimate and unique tasting experience:

• Opening hours: Thursday to Sunday, 11:00 am to 5:00 pm (also open on public holidays)

• Personalized service: Tastings are often conducted by a member of the Horrigan family or one of the winemakers

• Booking: Recommended, especially for weekends

• Tasting fee: $15 per person

The Pimpernel Society

For dedicated wine lovers, Pimpernel has created an exclusive two-tiered wine club called The Pimpernel Society. Membership benefits include:

• Generous discounts

• Preferential access to new and limited release wines

• Priority invitations to tastings and release events

Accolades

Pimpernel Vineyards has garnered significant recognition in the Australian wine industry, including a 5-star rating in James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion.

Visitor Tips

• Best time to visit: Autumn (March to May) offers beautiful vineyard colors and pleasant weather

• Nearby attractions: Levantine Hill and Il Vigneto Pizzeria are within a kilometer

• Groups: Limited to 4 or fewer guests for a more personalized experience

• Accessibility: Contact the winery in advance for specific accessibility needs

For wine lovers seeking an authentic, hands-on winery experience that combines Old World traditions with New World innovation, Pimpernel Vineyards offers a must-visit destination in the Yarra Valley.