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Ampersand shiraz wine bottle

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$55.00

Ampersand Estates

Pemberton Shiraz 2023

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Ampersand Shiraz

Pemberton’s cool-climate conditions offer a unique and sophisticated expression of Shiraz, distinct from the bold, full-bodied styles found in warmer regions. Here, the combination of a maritime climate, moderated by the nearby Southern Ocean, and nutrient-rich karri loam soils fosters a slow and steady ripening process. This allows the grapes to develop their characteristic bright fruit flavours while maintaining natural acidity and fine tannins. The result is a Shiraz that is soft, delicate, and refined, with a focus on elegance rather than power.

The Ampersand Shiraz of 2022 opens with a bouquet of alluring aromas, including blackberries, plums, and blueberries, underscored by hints of white pepper and allspice. On the palate, it reveals a soft, medium-bodied structure with fine-grained tannins that contribute to a smooth, silky texture. The cool-climate origins of this Shiraz are evident in its vibrant acidity and subtle spice, creating a wine that is both fresh and refined. The finish is persistent and elegant, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

This delicate, cool-climate Shiraz pairs beautifully with char-grilled lamb or herb-crusted pork tenderloin, where the wine’s spice and fruit notes enhance the savoury richness of the dish. For a vegetarian pairing, try a roasted beetroot and goat cheese tart or a wild mushroom ragout, which echo the wine’s earthy and elegant qualities.

 

ampersand winery aerial view

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Partners in Wine WA are proud to stock the entire Ampersand range of wines right here in Perth.

Learn About Ampersand Estates

Ampersand winery is located in the Pemberton Wine Region in South West Western Australia. Established in 1985 as Donnelly River Wines, the property is 36km from the town of Pemberton on the Vasse Highway and was one of the first vineyards established in the region. The vineyard is around  30 mins from Nannup & Pemberton and is a must see when visiting the region.

Located on the banks of the Donnelly River, Ampersand is in the heart of Karri country. These tall, majestic trees stand, forest upon forest, in national parks, amid creeks and rivers, wetlands and waterfalls.  The rich river flats and the surrounding hills of silty loam have proved ideal for the vines. The area has a dry, cool ripening period that is well suited to most of the premium grape varieties. It is very wet during the winter months, and rainfall is stored in dams to be used for irrigation in the summer months.

The recently refurbished property has bought it back to life with a stunning cellar door perfect for events and a wine by the lake.

The owners of Ampersand winery, Corrie

Ampersand Estates’ name was inspired by the philosophy that you shouldn’t have to choose – you should have it all. Ampersand, quite literally, is the symbol for ‘and’, which is why the passionate entrepreneurial duo of Melissa Bell and Corrie Scheepers brought the Estate back to life and named it in honour of the ideology of having the best of all worlds and not staying in one lane.

The business partners made Australia their home later in life, with Melissa being a Mississippi native and Corrie hailing from South Africa. Both working for Deloitte and being a part of the LQBTQIA+ community, they decided to go onto business together when they realised their shared values, visions and goals.

After establishing, operating and then selling The Terrace Initiative to former employers Deloitte, Corrie and Melissa set their minds to something they had never done before – the purchase and rehabilitation of a winery and distillery in a regional area. Why? As Corrie would say, why not.

Ampersand Estates was born through blood, sweat, tears and copius amounts of wines at the end of long and hard days of renovating. But the passion and persistence shows in the end result.

Pemberton Wine Region

Nestled in the picturesque south-west of Western Australia, the Pemberton wine region is renowned for producing premium cool-climate wines. Known for its lush forests, fertile soils, and consistent rainfall, Pemberton offers a unique terroir that fosters exceptional viticulture. Its proximity to the Southern Ocean also plays a crucial role in shaping its distinctive wine profile.

Rainfall and Climate

Pemberton enjoys a cool, maritime climate, which is ideal for growing a variety of wine grapes. The region receives an average annual rainfall of approximately 1,000 to 1,200 millimetres, most of which occurs during the winter months. The reliable precipitation ensures adequate water availability for vines during their growing season, although vineyard managers often supplement this with strategic irrigation during drier summer periods.

Spring and early summer in Pemberton are typically marked by moderate temperatures and occasional rainfall, reducing the risk of frost and allowing vines to develop gradually. The cooling influence of the Southern Ocean tempers extreme heat, ensuring the grapes maintain a balanced acidity and develop complex flavours over a long ripening period. These conditions are particularly advantageous for white varieties and cool-climate reds.

Soils of Pemberton

The region is characterised by diverse and fertile soils, predominantly karri loams, named after the towering karri forests that surround many vineyards. These loamy soils are deep, well-draining, and rich in nutrients, making them highly suitable for viticulture. In some areas, vineyards are planted on gravelly soils that add mineral complexity to the wines.

The combination of these soil types allows for excellent vine growth and fruit concentration. The soils also retain moisture well, which complements the region’s rainfall patterns, ensuring vines receive consistent hydration throughout the growing season.

Best Varietals Grown in Pemberton

Pemberton excels in producing aromatic whites and elegant cool-climate reds, with the region’s standout varieties being Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Merlot.

  • Chardonnay thrives in Pemberton’s cool climate, developing vibrant acidity, citrus notes, and a creamy texture when oak-aged. Many of the region’s Chardonnays are praised for their finesse and balance.
  • Sauvignon Blanc is another signature variety, often blended with Semillon to create zesty, herbaceous wines with tropical fruit undertones.
  • Pinot Noir is a rising star in Pemberton, yielding wines with delicate red fruit flavours, silky tannins, and earthy complexity.
  • Merlot, with its plush, berry-driven profile, also performs well here, especially when blended with Cabernet varieties.

The Pemberton wine region’s consistent rainfall, nutrient-rich soils, and cool maritime influence collectively create an ideal environment for crafting refined, world-class wines. Whether it’s a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a nuanced Pinot Noir, wines from Pemberton embody the elegance of this lush and pristine region.

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