Every bottle has a story. Ours begins with a vineyard, a mentor and a belief that great wines should speak to place.
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When Mark and Fiona Horrigan founded Pimpernel Vineyards in 2001, they weren't simply looking to establish another Yarra Valley winery. They were inspired by a particular way of thinking about wine – one that valued patience, craftsmanship and a deep respect for place.
That philosophy was shaped by Mark's late mentor and friend, Dr Bailey Carrodus, founder of Yarra Yering and one of the pioneers of modern Yarra Valley wine. Dr Carrodus believed that great wines should reflect the individuality of a vineyard gently guided by the hand of a winemaker.
That belief remains at the heart of everything we do today.
The connection runs deeper still. Before joining Pimpernel in 2008, winemaker Damien Archibald spent seventeen years working alongside Dr Carrodus at Yarra Yering. Damien was profoundly influenced by his mentorship and, together with Mark, continues to build upon these principles: thoughtful viticulture, careful observation and wines that speak directly to where they are grown.
Pimpernel's story is very much its own. Our philosophy has continued to evolve through our own experiences, our vineyard and the inspiration we draw from the great winegrowing traditions of France.
And more than twenty years later that story is still being written.
Every season brings new challenges and discoveries. Every vintage adds another chapter. And every bottle reflects a year in the life of the vineyard.
If you'd like to follow the story as it unfolds – from life among the vines to the decisions behind each vintage – we invite you to sign up to our mailing list or join us on Instagram.
