Deep Dive: Australia’s Best Nebbiolo - Young Gun of Wine
The Top Nebbiolos in Australia
2022 Cherubino Frankland River Nebbiolo
Ray Jordan reviews
2023 Cherubino Pemberton chardonnay
98 points
2023 Cherubino Margaret River chardonnay
98 points
2023 Cherubino Frankland River riesling
96 points
2023 Cherubino Ovale Caves Road Margaret River chardonnay
96 points
2023 Cherubino Ovale Dijon chardonnay 2023
96 points
2022 Cherubino Frankland River shiraz
96 points
2023 Uovo Frankland River grenache
96 points
2024 Cherubino Pemberton sauvignon blanc
95 points
2023 Cherubino Ovale Gingin chardonnay
95 points
2022 Cherubino Ovale Clonal Selection cabernet sauvignon
95 points
2023 On the Fringe chardonnay
95 points
2023 Laissez Faire arneis
95 points
2022 Cherubino Ovale Frankland River cabernet franc
94 points
2022 On the Fringe pinot noir
94 points
2022 The Yard malbec
94 points
2022 Cherubino Ovale Frankland River petit verdot
93 points
2022 Cherubino Ovale Omaggio shiraz malbec
93 points
2023 Laissez Faire fiano
93 points
2023 Laissez Faire Field Blend
93 points
2022 Pedestal Margaret River shiraz
93 points
91 POINTS
90 POINTS
2022 Ad Hoc Hen & Chicken Chardonnay
89 POINTS
2024 Folklore Rose
The Singapour – November 2023 - jancisrobinson.com
A bumper edition of Richard's monthly tasting compilation.
Much of this collection was tasted on my recent visit to Margaret River, and it represents a grab-bag of both famous names and newcomers, who between them make a selection of classic varieties and alternatives.
2022 ON THE FRINGE CHARDONNAY
2022 CHERUBINO MARGARET RIVER CHARDONNAY
2022 LAISSEZ FAIRE FIANO
2022 CHERUBINO FRANKLAND RIVER RIESLING
Drink 2023 - 2030
2020 CHERUBINO MARGARET RIVER CABERNET SAUVIGNON
2019 CHERUBINO FRANKLAND RIVER CABERNET SAUVIGNON
17+/20
2021 LAISSEZ FAIRE IV RED BLEND
2022 LAISSEZ FAIRE MENCÍA
Decanter Vintage report: Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 & Chardonnay 2022
Untypically for one of our vintage reports, in Western Australia we’ve put the spotlight on different vintages for red and white, with Cabernets coming from the tricky 2021 and Chardonnays from the contrastingly heat-driven 2022. Our author in residence selects 20 top wines from each.
For Decanter’s inaugural Margaret River vintage report, producers were asked to submit wines from the 2021 vintage for Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnays from 2022, which were all then tasted blind.
While the 2022 whites shone, the 2021 reds reflected the cooler and somewhat challenging vintage conditions many faced, including unusual February rainfall.
Should a wine score be indicative of what’s typically expected of the region and variety, or is it fairer and more useful to look at the wine with fresh eyes and no preconceived ideas?
There are champions for both approaches; mine here is not to reprimand wines that don’t speak of typicity, if the hallmarks of a great wine are nonetheless there to be found.
Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
While not being official GIs (geographical indications), six sub-regions – (north to south) Yallingup, Carbunup, Wilyabrup, Treeton, Wallcliffe and Karridale – were proposed in a 1999 paper by the late Dr John Gladstones, a major pioneering influence in the region from the mid-1960s.
In light of the soil and climate differences upon which these six areas were delineated, marginal years such as 2021 highlight that it is impossible to paint the Margaret River appellation with broad strokes.
The Margaret River Wine Association lists 181 wineries producing a Margaret River GI wine, yet just 38 Cabernet Sauvignons were submitted to the tasting for this report.
CABERNET MARKERS
A classic Margaret River Cabernet is medium-bodied, with firm tannins, energetic acidity, elegant perfume and generous black fruits, cassis, a mint or eucalyptus note, perhaps an umami edge on the palate and a delicate graphite thread.
The majority of 2021s sat firmly in the mid-bodied category, but with more red fruit than black, and many were paler in colour intensity than usual.
2021 is certainly a year that required more work and attention in the vineyard than usual to ensure fruit ripeness, with southern sub-regions facing the most marginal conditions.
Some well-regarded wineries chose not to produce their top cuvée. From those that did, there is beauty to be found.
The greatest wines here shine brightly, showing complexity, elegance and finesse, and they will age for a good 20 years or longer.
Chardonnay 2022
Thanks to a Mediterranean climate with maritime influence and ancient, well-draining soils, Margaret River Chardonnay is consistently among the greatest white wines of Australia.
2022 saw a long and wet winter with bud burst [typically occurring about mid-September] late by a week or two compared with the previous year, but a warm summer with a few heat spikes that ensured a fast harvest.
There were no issues with ripening in 2022, so there was little need to utilise malolactic fermentation for adding flesh to the bones. There is a general trend towards larger-format oak and less use of new oak, however some outstanding producers still use a significant proportion of new oak, seamlessly integrating it with high-quality fruit to produce wines of immense longevity.
If there is one takeaway from this 2022 vintage report, it is that quality is consistent. With no appellation rules and much site diversity, Margaret River’s producers are constantly keen to learn more and create the best possible expression of Chardonnay in its Western Australian home.
The top wines exude harmony while expressing place and brimming with excitement, whether their personality charms or challenges.
Margaret River: 40 of the best from 2021 and 2022
2022 Cherubino Ovale Dijon Chardonnay
95 points
2021 Cherubino Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon
93 points
Cassandra Charlick also recommends:
2022 Cherubino Ovale Gingin Chardonnay
94 points
2022 Cherubino Margaret River Chardonnay
92 points
Exclusive Report: Matthew Jukes’ in-depth analysis of Western Australia
“It is incumbent on the wineries in this unique part of the world to tell their story and pour their wine…” And that is exactly what Matthew Jukes is doing on their behalf in this fascinating, must read examination of what is happening across Western Australia. I have just returned from one of my life’s most fascinating and comprehensive Australian tours. In just seven days, I managed to bring myself bang up to date with West Australia’s incredible gastronomic scene while tasting countless world-class wines and meeting many of the heroes of Aussie wine.
The collaborative efforts of Georgia Moore (communications tornado and mind behind the uniquely compelling and internationally relevant WA Good Food Guide & Wine Awards), Liz Mencel (program manager of WA Wines to the World; the state’s export growth program coordinated by Wines of Western Australia), Mark Forrest (Great Southern Wine Producers’ Association), Amanda Whiteland (Margaret River Wine Association), as well as all of the wineries, restaurants and hospitality experts involved, meant that this was as slick, top quality and fascinating as any wine week I have ever had the pleasure of attending.
It is worth noting that winemakers Larry Cherubino and Matt Swinney, who personally organised two of the finest masterclasses I have ever had the pleasure of working on, set the standard for this week of phenomenal events. In addition, I had the pleasure of sharing the stage with wine writer Mike Bennie and Erin Larkin, two wine scribes whom I greatly admire and see far too rarely, as well as joining Nick Ryan on various co-hosting duties which invariably turned out to be as much bombastic theatre and far-fetched opinion as they did incisive wine chatter.
I met a couple of new faces, including head sommelier and buyer for the Kails Hospitality Group, Nina Throsby, who was a joy to chat to, Emma Farrelly (director of wine & beverages at State Buildings, who is always worth listening to for the most cutting edge assessments of Aussie wine, and also Cassandra Charlick, wine, travel and food writer whose opinions and palate brought another welcome dimension and fresh set of taste buds to all of our discussions.
Against this background of wonderful people, amazingly organised events and perfectly prepared food, the wines stood their finest chance of showing at their best.
Here is a list of my standout West Australian wines of the week from each event on my itinerary.
CHARDONNAY EXPOSÉ – SINGLE VINEYARD MARGARET RIVER CHARDONNAYS FROM THE 2022 VINTAGE AT FRUI MOMENTO
The award winning restaurant Frui Momento (above) was the host for the Chardonnay Exposé – Single Vineyard Margaret River Chardonnays from the 2022 vintage. Photo Matthew Jukes.
Here are my brief thoughts on the wines.
In conclusion, it was not surprising that the room was of one voice that Margaret River makes some of the greatest Chardonnays on earth and that single vineyard wines were a vital element in each winery’s offering. Every wine tasted entirely different from the next, and even those wines made 50m apart showed the kind of diversity we have come to expect from the feted wines of Burgundy.
With a unique maritime setting accompanied by sunny days and cool nights, one gets the feeling that Margaret River might, hopefully, be a rare climate-change-proof wine region of the world, at least for the foreseeable future. Those wines utilising sensitive oak regimes and blessed with low natural alcohol levels and pristine fruit, accompanied by stunning acidity itself affording intrinsic age-worthiness, are already shining on a world stage.
It is clear that the future is very bright for Margaret River Chardonnay. It is incumbent on the wineries in this unique part of the world to tell their story and pour their wine. I, for one, think that they cannot fail to attract consumers worldwide with their superbly well-made and entirely unforgettable wines.
2022 CHERUBINO DIJON CHARDONNAY
This is an awesome example of a single vineyard wine showing charm, individuality and flair. If this skill level can be deployed at fair pricing overseas, the clamour for elite Margaret River wines with identity will reach epic levels before too long.
A-Z OF INDIVIDUAL WEST AUSTRALIAN WINE HIGHLIGHTS
2022 CHERUBINO PEMBERTON CHARDONNAY
If Larry’s Margaret River wines are impressive (which they truly are), then the wines from Pemberton, given time, might rival the greatest in the country. This is a vital wine for all die-hard Chardonnay enthusiasts to track down and taste.
2019 CHERUBINO BUDWORTH CABERNET SAUVIGNON
2022 CHERUBINO FRANKLAND RIVER SHIRAZ
MATTHEW JUKES DIRECTORY - RESTAURANTS
Frui Momento at Cherubino, Wilyabrup won the New Restaurant of the Year 2023 in the WA Good Food Guide, and it was easy to see why. While I was hosting an event during this lunch, and so was up and down throughout, the service, food, setting and wine list here are all exquisite. The attention to detail is sublime, partly due to its owner, winemaker Larry Cherubino, whose gastronomic experience is tip-top. This is a must-visit restaurant when you are next in Margaret River.
Matthew Jukes 100 Best Australian Wines 2023/24 - Winery of the Year!
‘I am honoured and privileged to announce that Cherubino is the 100 Best Australian Wines Winery of the Year 2023/24. With eleven Larry Cherubino wines featured in this Report, as well as three more under the Robert Oatley label for whom Larry consults, it is no surprise that Larry and his teams of winemakers and viticulturalists have picked up this gong. I have known Larry for a quarter of a century, and very few people in our industry have a work ethic like his. His hunger for knowledge and understanding of the world’s great wines fires his imagination and palate to reach new heights with his own wines every year. This year, he has organized distribution in the UK for more of his wines than ever before, so it is perfect timing for me to talk about the man himself and sing about these wines because more people than ever have the chance to taste them.’
2022 LAISSEZ FAIRE FIELD BLEND. This year, I have not enjoyed any complex white blend more than this wine. I chase this style because I love it, with Northern Eastern Italy being a hotspot (or should that be a coolspot for me). That is not to say that everyone likes this style of wine - they are demanding, often confusing, and require commitment). I awarded the 2022 Field Blend a massive 19/20 score in my notes, and this wine, along with the immense roll-call of others, was responsible for bringing the Winery of the Year award to Cherubino. The Laissez Faire wine label is a hands-off, ‘let it be’ collection, and these wines are among the most intellectually pleasing and deeply rewarding in the country. Made from Pinot Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Riesling, Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Gris and seeing some skin contact and six months in French oak, this wine is total class. It reminds me of the great wines from Cantina Terlano, but just a bit more complex! This is a composed wine, with each variety giving its anti-fruit and fruit notes, and the combination of all of these elements is incredible. 2022 LAISSEZ FAIRE FOUDRE PEMBERTON PINOT NOIR shows that while we all know that Larry Cherubino is a dab hand with Chardonnay and Cabernet, as well as countless other varieties, he can also work his magic with the most fickle red grape of all, Pinot Noir. 2022 Foudre is blessed with gentle rose and raspberry fruit, and this unhurried wine shows delicious balance thanks to Italianate acidity, eight months in French oak foudres and pinpoint accurate balance. This is not a rich, dark style but a light-hearted, refreshing, resonant style, and it sits shoulder to shoulder with some of the more recognised Pinots from Victoria and Tassie in this Report. The Riesling is the most decorated Laissez Faire wine in the history of 100 Best. 2022 LAISSEZ FAIRE RIESLING is a cracker, but it is a variation on a theme. Classy, demure and gentle for the first two or three seconds, and the rest of the experience is a mineral-drenched and unremittingly challenging on account of the intensity of rapier-sharp acidity. This makes 2022 Laissez Faire Riesling the vintage with the most potential I have tasted, so be sure to grab a case and settle in for a lovely long ride.
2020 CHERUBINO OVALE GINGIN CHARDONNAY With eleven Cherubino wines featured in this Report and three under the Robert Oatley label for whom Larry consults, it is absolutely no surprise that Larry and his various team of winemakers and viticulturalists have picked up the Winery of the Year Award! I felt like Paul Hardcastle when I tasted the entire range earlier this year. I usually find myself willing wines to break out of 17/20 or 18/20 ruts. With Larry’s celestial suite of wines, it was a case of trying to find one that didn't clock up a 19. I take my hat off to the dedication, perseverance, palate acumen and will to win that all combine to create the enigma that is Mr Cherubino. I suggest you grab a huge shopping trolley and load up with every one of his wines in this Report because they will tell you more about the man than a face-to-face meeting because he is a shy chap who hides behind a Hollywood grin and a ludicrous mop of jet black hair.
So here we go. Now that Larry has finally managed to bring a plentiful selection of his wines to the UK, I can let fly with my thoughts. My featured Chardonnay shines a spotlight on sub-regional excellence, and with sensitive oak and the merest hint of malolactic fermentation, it sings its origins. There is intensity here and structure too, and these imposing traits are marshalled by profound acidity and freshness. I wrote ‘Grand Cru’ in my tasting notes, and while marvelling at the scale and profondeur, I found other storylines playing out across my palate. Stony hints, discreet succulents, wilder herbs than one finds in the UK and wilder florals too - there is a large cast of players here and it makes for expansive tasting. I suggest checking into this flavour first, and when your taste buds have acclimatised, move on to 2021 CHERUBINO MARGARET RIVER CHARDONNAY Larry calls this the ‘best’ Chardonnay in his range, but his is not a vertical suite of wines. Each has its occasion, its audience and its backdrop. Made from parcels of Karridale and Wilyabrup fruit, this is an utterly sensational wine with fruit so clean and bright it takes your eye off the sheer depth of flavour. It is so long and focused it draws you along at its pace, and with not once glance over its shoulder, one sideways flick, one eyelid flutter, you call in and follow. You cannot be in a crowded room or a hectic space to fully appreciate the convolutions in this wine. So find a place, a time and a companion and allow yourself some moments of anticipation - it will rise to any occasion and reward all who participate in its performance.
2022 CHERUBINO PEMBERTON SAUVIGNON BLANC slides southeast from Margaret River to a jewel in the Cherubino crown, Pemberton. Here we find one of only a handful of white wines employing the Sauvignon Blanc variety in this Report. Green and silky, like a slippery vinous tree snake, it curls around your taste buds and then bites down with acid fangs. Coming from a block in the Channybearup Vineyard, which was planted in 1996, it sees nothing more than four months in French oak in the winery before it slithers off into a bottle. While it needs age and certainly reflects many of the traits of top white Graves, it doesn't feel weighty or oily on the palate. In this regard, it sits atop the oak-augmented Sauvignon tree, tense, poised and ready to strike; a little like La Mission on a mission.
The following three wines are all Cabernets from Larry’s beloved Frankland River region, and I have listed them in ascending order of price, intensity and age-worthiness. 2018 CHERUBINO OVALE CABERNET SAUVIGNON CLONAL SELECTION seems to me to exhibit far more style and grace than it ought to at this price. There is a beautiful volume of cassis fruit here, and skin tannins rake the palate rhythmically as the fruit glides past. Fleshy blue and black fruit notes bring a level of exoticism, which is countered by cooling herbal and mint leaf hints. This is a phenomenal introduction to elite Frankland Cabernet, and it has started to drink well. If you love Napa or Bolgheri Cabs, this will seem like an elegant fruit-forward wine, given It is not too oak-imprinted, and in terms of value, it soars above any examples I can think of from both regions. 2019 CHERUBINO FRANKLAND RIVER CABERNET SAUVIGNON pushes Larry’s Frankland River Cabernet template into a wholly different level of excellence. The fruit is so resonant and bright it is shocking, and this gloriously luxurious flavour attack is underpinned by brutal, singular minerality that is at once awe-inspiring and not a little malevolent. The back end is sour, dense, structured, ripe, cool, powerful, muscular and brittle, arming this wine for a the long run. It is like an intergalactic excavator has scooped up a large tract of Saint-Etsephe and deposited it among the karri trees in the southwest corner of Western Australia. Finally, at least for this entry (read on for more Larry wines) 2019 CHERUBINO BUDWORTH CABERNET SAUVIGNON This was the wine that damn near spoilt the Nineteen track playing in my head. Sappy, more tannin and more blunt than the other two Cabs, this is a muscular wine that craves cellar time, but it is already clear that it is prodigious with dreams of greatness. Whether this beautifully complex flavour will add the half point needed to reach a perfect score in years to come is irrelevant because Riversdale Vineyard clearly has a stash of twenties buried in its soil, and they will blossom when they are good and ready.
2020 APOSTROPHE POSSESSIVE REDS’ Two remaining wines in the Cherubino portfolio sit outside of the other entries in this Report, and they welcome us to the Grenache & Friends chapter of the 100 Best. These are both lovely, gentle, easy-drinking wines that are centred on Southern French red varieties, and while they are not serious, long-loved or contemplative wines, they perform a vital function, and that is to spread vinous joy at all times and in all places 365 days a year. Apostrophe is a 42% Counoise, 32% Grenache and 26% Shiraz that see s a short spell in a new and used oak barrels. For a diminutive fellow, it packs a spicy punch with cracked pepper, cinnamon, liquorice root, and fertile earth notes underpinning a gossamer-smooth plum and cherry chassis. Clean, bright, easy and refreshing, this futuristic red works as well chilled with spicy food as it does at normal temperature with wintry fare. The skill, as is always the case, is in the blend. I cannot see any welds holding this wine together, and that is because there are none. The three grapes enjoy each other’s company and harmonise as if it were second nature. This is the sort of red wine that should be featured in every gastro-pub in the land, while 2021 AD HOC MIDDLE OF EVERYWHERE SHIRAZ ramps up the drama but still to confirm to type. Middle of Everywhere Shiraz has more in common with a fun-loving Pinot or free-rolling Gamay than with an everyday Shiraz. If I were to taste this wine blind, I would find it hard to place it in a Shiraz box despite the telltale perfume because it is so lithe, nubile and tactile. In place of tannin, raspy mineral tones refresh the palate and make the mouth water. This is another wine with one foot in the future. It appears to welcome a younger crowd and one who might not have a lexicon of grape varieties hanging around in the back of their brain. This tribe is after stylish labels, dynamic flavours and wines that are multi-skilled when it comes to food pairing. The Ad Hoc brand is well placed to capitalise on this movement because, behind the eye-catching artwork, the flavours of this wine are already 100% accurate.
Margaret River restaurant site to re-open in Spring 2024
Masseria Restaurant will be helmed by chef Ben Jacob (Lagoon Yallingup) who has developed a menu that promises to transport diners to the Italian countryside, showcasing a casual Italian-Mediterranean cuisine using traditions with a south-west twist. Think house made focaccia, a selection of the season’s best antipasti and cured meats to a range of hand made pastas. From the charcoal grill expect the likes of Bistecca Fiorentina and whole Augusta Nannygai. To finish, an indulgent signature Tiramisu made to share on the table.
Extraordinary Western Australian produce and flavours from Italy’s culinary hotspots will inform the charismatic, osteria inspired menu which aims to offer South-West diners an all-day menu that shifts seamlessly from lunch to aperitivo hour.
“Ben has been aligned with our vision from the get-go,” said Larry Cherubino “We wanted to create a dining experience in the region that is accessible but still elevated and both the food and wine menus reflect that wholeheartedly.”
“The inspiration for the restaurant name came about during a family holiday in Puglia,” Edwina Egerton-Warburton said, “Loosely translating to ‘farmhouse’, we think it is the perfect fit for the venue and style of eating and drinking people can expect –it is an incredible space and we’re very much looking forward to this new direction.”
A considered wine list will complement Jacobs’ menu, compiled by Cherubino City Cellar’s Sommelier, Simone Ratti, and Group Venue Manager, Jonathan Diaz. Cherubino’s greatest hits (including rare and exclusive back vintages) take their place alongside a selection of Italian and French wines from Larry’s import portfolio.
“I am very excited to align with the Cherubino brand in opening Masseria.” said Ben Jacob “I am committed to utilising my depth of knowledge and skill as a chef and restaurateur to create a welcoming atmosphere where families and friends can indulge in an Italian-Mediterranean menu focused on casual, simple, but delicious food, right here, in the south-west.”
Masseria will open just in time for Spring/Summer 2024 dining. Stay tuned for our official opening date, menu release, restaurant and wine tasting bookings!
Follow Masseria Restaurant on Instagram
Visit the website
For all media enquiries, please contact:
Lucy Anderson
lucy@cherubinowines.com
+61 498 956 640
2023 Wine Show of Western Australia - Most Successful Exhibitor!
This is a trophy we have won 5 times over the last six years (2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023)!!
Across the show we received 8 x Gold Medals, 20 x Silver Medals and 23 x Bronze Medals.
The full medal listing is as follows:
GOLD MEDAL
2023 Cherubino Great Southern Riesling
2015 Cherubino Great Southern Riesling
2020 Cherubino Frankland River Shiraz Block 7
2023 Laissez Faire Riesling
2021 Laissez Faire IV Blend
2021 Pedestal Shiraz
2022 Ad Hoc Wallflower Riesling
SILVER MEDAL
2022 Cherubino Margaret River Chardonnay
2022 Cherubino Dijon Chardonnay
2022 Cherubino Gingin Chardonnay
2022 Cherubino Caves Road Chardonnay
2021 Cherubino Mount Barker Riesling
2022 Cherubino Frankland River Riesling
2015 Cherubino Porongurup Riesling
2021 Cherubino Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon
2021 Cherubino Budworth Cabernet Sauvignon
2021 Cherubino Beautiful South Red Wine
2022 Uovo Cabernet Touriga
2021 Uovo Cabernet Touriga
2022 Laissez Faire Fiano
2014 Laissez Faire Riesling
2022 Laissez Faire Grenache
2022 On the fringe Chardonnay
2022 On the fringe Pinot Noir
2023 The Yard Riversdale Riesling
2009 The Yard Whispering Hill Riesling
BRONZE MEDAL
2022 Cherubino Frankland River Shiraz
2021 Cherubino Frankland River Shiraz
2021 Cherubino Frankland River Cabernet Sauvignon
2021 Cherubino Frankland River Nebbiolo
2022 Uovo Riesling
2021 Uovo Nebbiolo Cabernet
2022 Laissez Faire Mencia
2021 Laissez Faire Mencia
2021 Riversdale Merlot Cabernet Franc
2007 The Yard Riversdale Riesling
2009 The Yard Pannoo Riesling
2008 The Yard Whispering Hill Riesling
2018 The Yard Cane Cut Gewurztraminer
2022 The Yard Acacia Shiraz
2022 The Yard Riversdale Shiraz
2021 The Yard Riversdale Shiraz
2018 The Yard Vintage Fortified Shiraz
2022 Pedestal Elevation Chardonnay
2023 Ad Hoc PIP Rose
2021 Ad Hoc Middle of Everywhere Shiraz
2022 Folklore Chardonnay
2023 Royal Adelaide Wine Show
GOLD MEDAL
SILVER MEDAL
BRONZE MEDAL
2022 Cherubino Margaret River Chardonnay
2022 Cherubino Ovale Gingin Chardonnay
2022 Uovo Cabernet Touriga
2022 On the fringe Chardonnay
2022 Laissez Faire Field Blend
2022 Laissez Faire Mencia
2020 The Yard Riversdale Shiraz
2020 The Yard Justin Shiraz
2022 Pedestal Elevation Chardonnay
2023 Pedestal Semillon Sauvignon Blanc
2023 International Wine and Spirits Competition - 2 x Trophy Winner
We are absolutely thrilled to announce that last week, at the 2023 International Wine and Spirits Competition (IWSC) held in London, Cherubino received two prestigious trophies winning:
- WHITE WINE PRODUCER
- OUTSTANDING WINE PRODUCER
Cherubino made it to the shortlist due to the numerous gold medals we earned in the recent IWSC competition, with our Pemberton and Margaret River wines notable standouts.
Larry and Edwina Cherubino share “We have a very dedicated team, with some members who have been with us for much of the journey. This award is a fitting reward and recognition for their efforts, as much an achievement for them professionally as for Cherubino”
“We always wanted a wine brand and business that was firmly rooted in viticulture, celebrating the places we love to farm. Building a generational business was and still is our core motivation.”
Larry added “I do hope that this award puts Australia firmly back into focus as there are many producers that also deserve such an award and recognition.”
We are immensely grateful to everyone who has supported us on this incredible journey, from our fantastic viticulture and winemaking team to our partners around the world who share our stories and wines. Your unwavering support has been key in making this achievement possible.
2023 Royal Hobart Wine Show
This result is also the 4th Gold Medal for the 2022 Cherubino Ovale Dijon Chardonnay this year after the Sydney, Perth & IWSC shows.
Full list of results are as follows:
GOLD MEDAL
SILVER MEDAL
2022 On the fringe Chardonnay
BRONZE MEDAL
2022 Cherubino Ovale Caves Road Chardonnay
2022 Pedestal Elevation Chardonnay
2022 Pedestal Chardonnay
AUSTRALIAN WINE LIST OF THE YEAR AWARDS
The City Cellar has achieved three glasses in the 2023 Australian Wine List Awards 🍷🍷🍷
The Three Glass rating is the highest recognition to outstanding wine lists that excel in criteria such as content, balance, suitability, presentation, and pricing, as set by Australian Wine List of the Year Awards.
A panel of over 30 extraordinary wine connoisseurs from Australia and around the world judged these awards.
Huge congratulations to our amazing sommeliers who are always looking for the finest selections for our customers.
Ray Jordan 2014 WA Wine Review
2019 CHERUBINO BUDWORTH CABERNET SAUVIGNON
97/100
2022 CHERUBINO MARGARET RIVER CHARDONNAY
96/100
2019 CHERUBINO FRANKLAND RIVER CABERNET SAUVIGNON
97/100
2022 ON THE FRINGE CHARDONNAY
95/100
2022 CHERUBINO OVALE CAVES ROAD CHARDONNAY
97/100
2021 CHERUBINO OVALE CHANNYBEARUP PINOT NOIR
96/100
2022 CHERUBINO OVALE DIJON CHARDONNAY
96/100
2022 CHERUBINO OVALE GINGIN CHARDONNAY
96/100
2022 CHERUBINO PEMBERTON CHARDONNAY
98/100
RUNNER UP - WHITE WINE OF THE YEAR
2022 CHERUBINO FRANKLAND RIVER RIESLING
95/100
2022 CHERUBINO PEMBERTON SAUVIGNON BLANC
94/100
2023 WA GOOD FOOD GUIDE WINE AWARDS
On Monday night, 9th October, the WA Good Food Guide Wine Awards for 2023 announced their Top 25 wines for the year. Our 2021 Cherubino Frankland River Nebbiolo was named Number 6 on this list.
2021 CHERUBINO NEBBIOLO
A wow moment. Such a distinct and distinguished wine delivering strong DNA of the variety with drinkability in tow. It’s bright and fresh, but with mettle from good tannin, succulent texture and vibrant fruit. Savoury in style, with brightness shining through, there’s an appealing dusty, Italianate feel to it all. Good stuff here, and very well done.
Cherubino Shortlisted by IWSC for International White Wine Producer of the Year 2023
We are beyond thrilled to share that Cherubino has been shortlisted as finalist for the prestigious International White Wine Producer of the Year award by the IWSC!
This incredible achievement comes on the heels of our outstanding success in the 2023 IWSC competition, where we were awarded 4 Gold medals for our renowned Chardonnays.
In the words of Larry and Edwina:
“We are truly honoured and humbled to be shortlisted for this award in what is a highly competitive field among the world’s finest wineries.”
Once again, we want to extend a huge thanks to our wonderful team! Your dedication and unwavering commitment have made all this possible
The winners of the IWSC awards will be officially announced during the ceremony scheduled for October 19th in London. Stay tuned!!
Cherubino acquires Margaret River Winemakers
The acquisition includes a 2000-tonne facility with warehousing, distillation capacity, and cellar door. As part of the acquisition, the spirits brand will be rebranded with a focus on utilising Cherubino’s vineyards and fruit resources to create regional and beginning-to-end estate spirits and a produce farm shop, which will complement the existing Cherubino cellar door and Frui Momento restaurant and Enoteca located on Caves Road, Wilyabrup.
Larry Cherubino and his wife Edwina, the founders of Cherubino, have been planning an acquisition for over 20 years and are excited to integrate the Margaret River Winemakers’ assets into their business. The current wine facility and equipment will be moved to the new facility over the next 12 months, enabling Cherubino to develop their unique approach to farming, making and marketing their portfolio of wines.
“We are committed to a long-term approach to winemaking, and this acquisition represents an incredible opportunity for us to establish the brand not only in terms of supply but will greatly support our production and marketing capabilities” Larry said.
“Cherubino’s newly appointed distribution partner in the UK, Hatch Mansfield, Oatley Fine Wine Merchants in Australia, and our many partners and customers around the world have allowed us to make this important step with confidence and we look forward to sharing more details of the project soon.”
The acquisition of Margaret River Winemakers is a significant development for Cherubino, reflecting their commitment to consolidating their business while remaining true to their long-term vision. The new cellar door will reopen in December 2023.
2023 Canberra International Riesling Challenge
The Canberra International Riesling Challenge results have been announced and we had 5 x wines rated. Full listing is as follows:
2023 Cherubino Frankland River Riesling - Elite (95 points)
2023 Cherubino Great Southern Riesling - Elite (95 points)
2023 Laissez Faire Riesling- Elite (95 points)
2023 The Yard Riversdale Riesling- Excellent (93 points)
2023 Uovo Riesling- Commended
Top Gold & Best Shiraz Trophy - 2021 Pedestal Shiraz
The Sydney Royal Wine Show, established in 1826, is one of the most prestigious wine shows in Australia, annually attracting over 2,200 entries from 350 producers across Australia.
Last night in Sydney the winners were announced for 2023. Our 2021 Pedestal Shiraz won the Best Shiraz Trophy and Top Gold for the event.
Below is a full list of our results for the show:
2021 Pedestal Shiraz - Top Gold & Best Shiraz Trophy
2022 Cherubino Dijon Chardonnay - Gold Medal
2022 Cherubino Margaret River Rose - Silver Medal
2022 The Yard Acacia Shiraz - Silver Medal
2022 Cherubino Frankland River Shiraz - Silver Medal
2022 Cherubino Margaret River Chardonnay - Bronze Medal
2022 Laissez Faire Fiano - Bronze Medal
2021 Cherubino Frankland River Shiraz - Silver Medal
2023 National Wine Show of Australia
The full list of results are as follows:
GOLD MEDAL
2021 Ad Hoc Wallflower Riesling
SILVER MEDAL
2021 Cherubino Margaret River Chardonnay
2018 Cherubino Budworth Cabernet Sauvignon
2020 Cherubino Ovale Dijon Chardonnay
2021 Laissez Faire Riesling
2022 Laissez Faire Riesling
2021 Pedestal Shiraz
BRONZE MEDAL
2018 Cherubino Ovale Frankland Cabernet Clonal Selection
2019 Cherubino Ovale Beautiful South Red Wine
2020 Cherubino Ovale Shiraz Mataro
2018 Cherubino Porongurup Riesling
2020 Uovo Riesling
2022 Laissez Faire Field Blend
2021 Laissez Faire IV Blend
2020 Laissez Faire Riesling
2020 The Yard Justin Shiraz
2018 The Yard Cane Cut Gewurztraminer
2022 The Yard Riversdale Riesling
MARGARET RIVER’S RISE TO GREATNESS, BY ERIN LARKIN
by Erin Larkin
Robert Parker Wine Advocate
Margaret River is the traditional land of the First Nations Wadandi people. Wadandi means “saltwater people,” and the connection to the coast and the sea is the essence of Margaret River, today.
Margaret River is a very young wine region by world standards. While white settlement occurred in the 1830s, the first vines of the modern commercial era were not planted until 1967 at Vasse Felix—although there were vineyards in the ground prior to 1967, albeit on a smaller scale. The early families at that time—the Cullitys (Vasse Felix), the Cullens (Cullen Wines, planted in 1971), the Junipers (Juniper Estate, planted in 1973), the Horgans (Leeuwin Estate, planted in 1976), the Watsons (Woodlands, planted in 1973) and the Pannells (Moss Wood, planted in 1969) were, in a wine sense, little more than educated cognoscente with opportunity and means. Their prescience, courage and diligent endeavor in that southern coastal wilderness built the foundations of one of the great wine regions of the world.
Today, Margaret River is a boutique region, producing only 2% of Australia’s total crush (at an average of 36,000 tons per annum). More than half of the producers in the region crush less than 50 tons on average per annum—for perspective, less than 1% of producers in Australia crush under 100 tons—and many of the cuvées tasted for this report were made in single- or double-barrel quantities.
CLONES
CHARDONNAY
The 1950s and 1960s mark a dynamic and pivotal time in Western Australian viticulture. Dr. Harold Olmo and respected agronomist Dr. John Gladstones met during Olmo’s residency at UWA in 1955. The knowledge, energy and exhaustive research of these two men helped to shape the beginning of the wine industry in Western Australia.
The Gingin clone (proven to be distinct from Mendoza) is endemic to Margaret River and is typified by its tiny bunches—similar to a small cob of corn or a hand grenade in size and shape. It has notoriously poor fruit set and is therefore low yielding, with bunches sometimes weighing in at as low as 65to 70 grams. The vines also “suffer” from millanderage; the berries are hen and chicken sizes and ripen at different rates. Due to the very high acidity, pronounced phenolic structure and powerful fruit characters, the resultant wines are long lived, expansive and expressive—emphasized and encouraged by shrewd viticulture and winemaking. Producers such as Cullen, Leeuwin, Vasse Felix, Pierro, Xanadu, Stella Bella, Walsh & Sons, Fraser Gallop, Domaine Naturaliste and McHenry Hohnen—to name a few—all employ the Gingin clone in their top wines.
There are Dijon/Bernard clones in the region, mainly 95, 96, 277 and 76, which produce very different fruit profiles and acid drives to Gingin. There are very few top-tier wines made using exclusively these clones, however there are several producers that blend these in with the Gingin component. As the Dijon/Bernard clones express inversely, they are often treated differently in the winery (widespread malolactic fermentation, for a start), which only exacerbates their blending attributes. Several producers who work with these clones include Voyager Estate, Windows Estate, Domaine Naturaliste (Purus) and Larry Cherubino, in either some or all their top cuvées.
There is one sparkling producer featured in this report that works with an array of Chardonnay clones for their purposes—Clones 1 (I10V1), 5 (G9V7), 7 (G9V7 H90.1) as a part of those aforementioned, sans Gingin—and that “Blanc de Blanc” perspective is an interesting and valid inclusion in this report. Each of these clones brings with it specific attributes that favor sparkling wine production over table wine; I tasted through a collection of clonally isolated base wines for the purpose of this report—the distinctions between which were vivid.
The 2022 crush statistics for Chardonnay are thought-provoking in that they reveal that Chardonnay is not the most ubiquitous grape in the region, although it is the most expensive, pipping Cabernet Sauvignon at the post at circa $2,000 per ton (average national price is circa $500 a ton). Semillon is the highest percentage of crush at 34.08% of the total in 2022, followed by Sauvignon Blanc at 33.74% of the total—clearly blending partners. Chardonnay is a way down at 24.79% of the total (3,830 tons), followed by Chenin Blanc at just 5.48% of the total.
CHARDONNAY WINEMAKING STYLE
Stylistically across the country, the Australian Chardonnay pendulum has swung away from the hideously obese wines of the excessive 1980s period, to anemic, acid-driven, early-picked wines of the early to mid 2000s, back to the powerful, high solids, wild, complex wines we see today. Many producers in Margaret River have remained fundamentally immune to the bloating and contracting of trends over the years, and this has held them in good stead. The direction now seems to be sitting comfortably at around 13% to 13.5% alcohol, not due to chasing this outcome but as a result of growing and picking the fruit in order to most eloquently express site. As a group, the Chardonnay wines were more adventurous than the Cabernets, and it was a pleasure to witness many producers experimenting with different styles and methods while still deftly retaining a sense of place and terroir in the wines.
I have a lingering question about the dogged and exclusive adherence to the low-yielding Gingin clone: In the pursuit of purity and power, are potential complexity and dimension sacrificed? After years of tasting these wines, I don’t know what I believe, but I’m asking the question repeatedly, as I see the possibility for further exploration and discussion on this point. (As an addendum, the highest-scoring Chardonnays in this report were made with 100% Gingin fruit.)
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
There are some “newer” Bordeaux clones that I tasted and discussed during this report: 169 and 337, although these are nowhere near as widely planted and offer very different tannic and flavor profiles.
Merlot (10% of total crush in Margaret River in 2022) was widely planted in the early days of the region and blended with Cabernet Sauvignon. The original clone was poorly suited to the region and has been replaced by the more premium Malbec (only 2% of the total crush in the 2022 crush statistics) as a preferred blending partner for Cabernet Sauvignon. The following two clones are clawing Merlot’s way back into the quality game: 181 (Bordeaux) and the Q45-14 (Italy) clone.
CABERNET SAUVIGNON WINEMAKING STYLES
The biggest issue facing Cabernet Sauvignons in Margaret River (from a stylistic standpoint) is the temptation to pick late, over-extract and over-oak. “Bigger” is not better. In fact, “bigger” disguises the grace and majesty inherent in the region, an aesthetic choice that buggers the very thing that makes the wines exceptional. The Cabernet Sauvignons from this region are supple, ductile things of agile textile and saturated red fruit characters, overlaid with nori/brine/saltbush and coastal freshness. The best are astoundingly good, long-lived, effortless wines that fluently declare place. The best of these I believe will not only begin to reshape the face of premium Cabernet Sauvignon globally but will guide the astute drinkers and collectors to a more pleasurable and nuanced Cabernet existence.
REPORT AND CONCLUSION
I was overwhelmed by the support and generosity of all 76 producers who provided verticals in situ, samples via post and time either in person or virtually and their openness in discussing stylistic evolution over time: highlights, lowlights and, most importantly, the dissection and consideration of the bright future of the region.
Crucially underpinning all of this, of course, are the vineyards, and there is an entire chapter to be built around the growing areas within Margaret River: Wilyabrup, Wallcliffe, Karridale, Yallingup, Carbanup, Treeton and more.
Due to the size of the producers in the region, the viticulture is hands-on and detailed, responsive to the seasons and exposition and widely sustainable, either in certification or practice or both. Responsible and astute agronomy rules the day. Driving through the region reveals a rich tapestry of lush-looking vineyards (even now, with dormant vines and winter grasses), and walking through those vineyards during the growing season yields an acoustic cacophony of insects, birds, springy soils and diverse inter-row plantings.
Consider this report “part one” of a long-ranging observation of this place. Stay tuned.
"To suggest that Larry Cherubino makes a prodigious amount of wine would be both correct and a gentle understatement. However, he and his winemaking team (not to be overlooked or underestimated) are responsible for a huge number of very high quality wines, as are evidenced in this report. The Chardonnays are routinely made in a full-bodied, plush style, which is created by winemaking rather than later picking dates. The wines are enveloping, rich, balanced and opulent, in many cases, yet always classy. The Cabernets are often supported by a profusion of very high quality French oak. They offer cellaring propositions of the highest order, emphasized by Larry's access to very high quality fruit and very high attention to detail in his vineyards. The wines included in this report are his Margaret River wines, but he also makes a collection of wines from the Great Southern. The "plus" signs in the scores here indicate that the wines will be better with time."
2022 CHERUBINO MARGARET RIVER CHARDONNAY
96 points
2021 CHERUBINO MARGARET RIVER CHARDONNAY
95+ points
2022 CHERUBINO GINGIN CHARDONNAY
94+ points
2022 CHERUBINO MARGARET RIVER GRENACHE ROSE
94 points
2022 CHERUBINO CAVES ROAD CHARDONNAY
93+ points
2020 CHERUBINO MARGARET RIVER CABERNET SAUVIGNON
93+ points
2022 CHERUBINO DIJON CHARDONNAY
92+ points
2022 PEDESTAL ELEVATION CHARDONNAY
92 points
2024 Halliday Wine Companion
2019 Cherubino budworth cabernet sauvignon - 98 points
2021 CHERUBINO MARGARET RIVER CHARDONNAY - 97 points
2020 CHERUBINO MARGARET RIVER CABERNET - 97 points
2021 Cherubino CAVES ROAD chardonnay - 95 points
2021 PEDESTAL SHIRAZ - 95 points
2022 PEDESTAL SEMILLON SAUVIGNON BLANC - 95 points
2022 AD HOC WALLFLOWER RIESLING - 93 points
WAGFG Top 15 Bars
A big thank you to our fantastic team and customers past, present and future. It’s always great to be recognised as a place people enjoy coming to - its that simple really.
Thank you to @wagoodfoodguide for the recognition and all the good work you do promoting excellence in the industry and congratulations to all the other recipients for contributing to it. Looking so good WA!
2021 Halliday Wine Companion Results
James Halliday has released his scores for the 2021 Wine Companion. We have 22 wines that have received 95 points and above!
Here is a list of these wines and their reviews:
2019 Cherubino Great Southern Riesling - 97 points
All the tightness, precision and intensity of the palate have been prophesied by the bouquet and reinforced by the aftertaste. Meyer lemon, lime and Granny Smith apple are welded together by the core of acidity that will underwrite the longevity of the wine.
2019 Cherubino Porongurup Riesling - 96 points
There’s a laser precision to riesling from Porongurup as this attests. A touch of lavender to the citrus blossom, grapefruit alongside Meyer lemon and mouth-watering chalky acidity. Long, pure and classy.
2018 Cherubino Margaret River Chardonnay - 96 points
Impressive from the start, offering the best regional flavours. Stone fruit, grapefruit, creamy honeycomb, ginger spice and flint; oak neatly in place yet playing a part. Complex, powerful and utterly delicious.
2018 Cherubino Gingin Chardonnay - 96 points
A real energy and drive here with a more linear, taut structure compared with its Dijon/Karridale sibling. Mouth-watering flavours of pink grapefruit, lemon with struck-match, flinty sulphides. Laser precision across the palate but there’s give, it’s not lean and mean. It has power and drive with refreshing acidity to the very end.
2017 Cherubino Frankland River Cabernet Sauvignon - 96 points
It starts out allserious and broody offering a hint of the savouriness with licorice, meat stock and wormwood. It’s full-bodied with densely packed tannins and yet, it doesn’t feel weighty. It unfurls with aplomb and while it’s a pleasure to drink now, time will be its benefactor.
2019 Laissez Faire Riesling - 95 points
A real thirst quencher thanks to itslemon sorbet acidity, saline crunch and zippy palate. It’s all about citrus flavours and is lip-smackingly good.
2017 Uovo Riesling - 95 points
The Uovo range has been a revelation despite the absence of any detail about it. Still, no better example than this riesling that has a beautiful acid line with layers of flavour and texture. Lemon and ginger curd, fresh citrus and plenty of juiciness across the palate with a dash of sweetness softening the finish.
2018 Cherubino Beautiful South White Wine - 95 points
From the best blocks of sauvignon blanc from a selection of Great Southern vineyards. It was wild- fermented and matured in French oak for 6 months. It can be cellared for at least a decade. It’s a powerful wine, acidity providing all the structure required for this to prove true.
2018 Ad Hoc Hen & Chicken Chardonnay - 95 points
The name refers to the Gingin clone that produces radically different sized berries on each bunch.
The result is a wine with great concentration and depth that will leave all other chardonnays at this price gasping for breath – there is a full panoply of chardonnay fruit flavours from melon to vanilla and white peach.
Cherubino Dijon Chardonnay 2018 - 95 points
Dijon, as in clones 95 and 96 grown in Karridale. A mighty fine result. Moreish, savoury with grapefruit, pomelo, ginger spice and sweet oak influence. Fuller bodied, creamy across thepalate and yet reined in by refreshing, lithe acidity.
2018 Laissez Faire Chardonnay - 95 points
No shortage of flavour with grapefruit, stone fruit and oak spices. A juiciness across the palate with fresh acidity plus creamy leesy influence, but not too much. This only spent 6 months in new and used French oak but it feels more substantial. Very good drinking now.
2017 Uovo Chardonnay - 95 points
Frustrating not having moreinformation. Regardless, this is a gem. Tight, linear with a fine acid line yet layers of flavour and a real depth. Stone fruit, lemon with ginger cream, fabulous texture, almost chalky.
2019 Laissez Faire Fiano - 95 points
Fiano can handle oak, but not too much.The back label states whole-bunch pressed and partial-barrel fermentation. It has more phenolic grip as a result. It’s textural and honeyed on the palate. Lemon blossom, fresh herbs with lots of ginger and spices on the nose.
2018 Laissez Faire Vermentino 2018 - 95 points
It has a depth of flavour often missing with Australian renditions. Sure it has the lemon saline allure, the camomile and blossom, but it’s the palate that stands out – textural, some phenolics adding a comment.
2018 Laissez Faire Field Blend 2018 - 95 points
Gewurztraminer, pinot grigio, riesling and pinot blanc form the quartet. No information other than the back label claiming hand-harvested and natural fermentation. It tastes as if there’s been some skin contact, heady aromatics spicy and citrussy with the palate in tow. Well handled phenolics and a savoury, moreish finish. Love it.
2018 Laissez Faire Syrah - 95 points
Estate-grown (Riversdale Vineyard); hand-picked and sorted, matured for 10 months in French oak. This is high quality shiraz fruit handled with attention to detail. It is fragrant and juicy, long and very well balanced. Texture and structure in a medium-bodied guise, and a cornucopia of black fruits.
2018 Cherubino Frankland River Shiraz - 95 points
It has regional appeal aplenty – black–blue fruits, squid ink and black pepper; on first pour, somewhat hammered by lots of varnishy-sweet-charry oak. Yet all that fades with air, to reveal a vibrancy and plushness. Ripe, dense tannins and appealing in the end.
2018 Uovo Grenache - 95 points
This is the essence of grenache. Heady aromatics of florals, red fruits, musk and a touch of cherry cola, but it’s the palate that makes this special. Medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins and, while the fruit is delicious, the enjoyment is in its savouriness. Grenache in Frankland River is proving to be something special.
2017 The Yard Riversdale Cabernet Sauvignon - 95 points
The substantial Riversdale Vineyard was originally planted in the mid-’90s, so the vines are relatively young. One can only imagine how good it will be in another 10 years. Not that this wine needs any excuses, it’s classic cabernet with blackcurrant, black olive and bay leaf aromas/flavours supported by firm tannins that are the markers of prime quality cabernet sauvignon.
2017 Cherubino Rivers End Cabernet Sauvignon - 95 points
Percentage unknown but a blend of fruit is from Frankland River and Margaret River, the latter taking the lead: mulberry, earth, lead pencil and warm spices. Lots to take away and enjoy with its soft, shapely tannins and freshness throughout. It’s in the zone.
2017 Cherubino Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon - 95 point
Fruit sourced from Wilyabrup sites so it is full of cassis, mulberries, licorice and violets. A lovely start .A vibrancy throughout with finely chiselled tannins and bright acidity working across the medium-bodied palate. Approachable now and will reward the patient.
2017 Cherubino Beautiful South Red Wine 2017 - 95 points
A blend of cabernet sauvignon and malbec from the Riversdale Vineyard in Frankland River. Shot with savouryflavours of licorice, warm earth and wood spices. There’s a flutter of leafy freshness, cassis with captivating tannins.
2023 WA Good Food Guide - Best Bars
Clearly, the star here is the 20-odd page list, which pits Larry Cherubino’s own wares and other homegrown favourites up against France and Italy’s finest.
Gourmet Traveller - Best places to drink wine
GO FOR: WHATEVER VENUE MANAGER AND SOMMELIER WILL ROSER HAS OPEN FOR YOU TO TRY
Cherubino Frankland River 'Budworth' Cabernet Sauvignon - 99 points!
Nick Stock the Executive Editor of www.jamessuckling.com was recently in the Margaret River region and wrote “The 2018 vintage is one to celebrate and collect as wines come out on the market”.
He reviewed a multitude of wines from the region with 16 of our wines reviewed and rated. The 2018 Cherubino Frankland River ‘Budworth’ Cabernet Sauvignon received an amazing 99 points!
Below is a full list of the wines reviewed and their rating.
2018 Cherubino Frankland River ‘Budworth’ Cabernet Sauvignon - 99 points
Such impressive red plums and mulberries are delivered in bright, pure style here with dark, violet florals. Then there’s a wealth of savory notes, such as cedar, gun flint and cloves. It is so complex already. The palate delivers a very convincing array of purple-berry and plum flavors that completely coat the mouth. So harmonious, the resolve, depth and purity this wields is so impressive. Long and pure dark-berry flavors abound. Like a great young Cos d’Estournel! Drink or cellar for 15 plus years.
2019 Cherubino Margaret River Chardonnay - 97 points
Such a complex chardonnay with lime-peel, yellow-grapefruit and grilled-lemon aromas, as well as nectarines and white peaches. Grilled hazelnuts, too. The palate has a super fleshy and bold feel with a very intense, very long and juicy core of rich, stone-fruit flavors. Grilled-hazelnut finish. Drink or hold.
2019 Cherubino Dijon Chardonnay - 97 points
This has very impressive, flinty and fresh yellow grapefruit with white peaches and wet stones. The complexity is beautifully judged. The palate has such riveting freshness and concentration. The pithy peach and grapefruit flavors are so, so intense here. Long, fresh and deep. This is spectacular. Drink or hold.
2018 Cherubino Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon - 96 points
Super deep, rich aromas of raspberries, dark cherries, blackcurrants and plums here with attractive cedary oak also in the mix. The palate delivers such depth and effortlessly rich, smooth dark-berry flavors fill the mouth, amid velvety, ribbon-like tannins. Silky and beautifully resolved. Drink or hold.
2018 Cherubino Gin Gin Chardonnay - 95 points
There’s density here with bold peaches and apricots, as well as dried peach and savory notes of biscuit, toasted almond and praline. The palate is very juicy, very rich and dense. This clone delivers such intensity. Good potential for this wine to age. Big flavors. Drink or hold.
2019 Cherubino Porongurup Riesling - 95 points
This has a beautifully crisp and dry feel with a wealth of very vivid notes of lemons, wet stones and hints of herbs and green apples. The palate has such freshness and verve and really strikes the finish cleanly. So long, dry and pure. Drink or hold.
2019 Cherubino Great Southern Riesling - 94 points
This has attractive mineral-salt perfume, together with dried stone fruit, limes and lemons. Flinty notes, too. The palate is fresh, lively and pithy with salty appeal and a succulent, juicy draw of intense lime flavor. Drink or hold.
2018 Cherubino Beautiful South Red - 94 points
Rich aromas of blueberries, currants, mint and wild herbs here with a very sleek, plush and juicy palate that trades on polished tannins, which carve a smooth, long shape. Fresh, spiced blueberry and plum flavors hold long. A blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot and malbec. Drink or hold.
2019 Cherubino Pemberton Sauvignon Blanc - 94 points
Cherubino manages to get the absolute most from his sauvignon blanc. Intense green mangoes, peaches and limes are lightly glazed with some careful oak fermentation. The palate is beautifully fresh and layered with intense, lemon and grapefruit flavors. Long and satisfying. Drink or hold.
2018 Cherubino Frankland River Shiraz - 94 points
This has sultry, wet-stone aromas with fresh red flowers and spiced red plums on offer. Super fresh. The palate has a plush, succulent and juicy feel with a vibrant, spicy delivery of red-plum flavors and smoothly layered tannins. Fresh and alluring. Drink or hold.
2018 Uovo Grenache - 93 points
A sultry nose with terra-cotta, gunflint and bright red-fruit aromas on offer, as well as some mountain herbs in the background. The palate has a very smooth, juicy core of raspberries with a sleek delivery of fine, granular tannin. Savory, yet fruit-focused style here. Drink now.
2018 The Yard Riversdale Cabernet Sauvignon - 92 points
An accessible yet impressive take on Frankland River cabernet with aromas of rose and red cherries. The medium-bodied, very plush and juicy palate carries delightfully fresh, charming red-plum and berry flavors. Drink now.
2018 Cherubino Pemberton Chardonnay - 92 points
Attractive, toasty praline and lemon-butter aromas here. The palate has a smooth, fleshy core of nectarines and white peaches and some buttery notes to close. Drink now.
2019 Laissez Faire Riesling - 92 points
The most approachable of the Cherubino rieslings with a softer stance and a style that melds the intense citrus into pears and apples. Drink now.
2019 Laissez Faire Chardonnay - 91 points
This has a fresh array of peaches and pears with a smooth, dry palate that delivers attractive, savory-pastry flavors. Drink now.
2019 Laissez Faire Mencia - 91 points
A complex nose with spices, fresh earth, fresh leather and brambly, redder-fruit aromas on offer. The palate has a sleek, fine-boned feel with an elegant, crisp, slate, berry and rose finish. Drink now.
JAMES SUCKLING TOP 100 AUSTRALIAN WINES OF 2020
James Suckling & his team have tasted and rated more than 3,500 Australian wines this year. Of those 3,500 wines we have had 2 of ours make their Top 100 Australian Wines of 2020!
2018 CHERUBINO BUDWORTH CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Such impressive red plums and mulberries are delivered in bright, pure style here with dark, violet florals. Then there’s a wealth of savory notes, such as cedar, gun flint and cloves. It is so complex already. The palate delivers a very convincing array of purple-berry and plum flavors that completely coat the mouth. So harmonious, the resolve, depth and purity this wields is so impressive. Long and pure dark-berry flavors abound. Like a great young Cos d’Estournel! Drink or cellar for 15 plus years.
99 points
2019 CHERUBINO DIJON CHARDONNAY
This has very impressive, flinty and fresh yellow grapefruit with white peaches and wet stones. The complexity is beautifully judged. The palate has such riveting freshness and concentration. The pithy peach and grapefruit flavors are so, so intense here. Long, fresh and deep. This is spectacular. Drink or hold.
97 points
2021 Perth Royal Wine Show - 2 x Trophy Winner!
The Perth Royal Wine Show Awards were announced today we have once again been successful across multiple categories including winning 2 x Trophies!!
Our trophy wins are as follows:
MOST SUCCESSFUL WA EXHIBITOR - TROPHY
2021 AD HOC WALLFLOWER RIESLING - TROPHY, BEST RIESLING
Along with these 2 Trophies the following wines won Gold Medals:
2020 Cherubino Gin Gin Chardonnay
2018 Cherubino Frankland River Cabernet Sauvignon Clonal Selection
2020 Laissez Faire Riesling
2020 Pedestal Shiraz
We also won a further 8 x Silver medals & 15 x Bronze medals.
Ray Jordan Wine Guide 2020
Ray Jordan has just released his annual Wine Guide for 2020. Along with some brililant reviews Larry had the honour of being named Winemaker of the Year by Ray! Here's what Ray had to say about Larry:
Cherubino is one of the state's finest winemakers. Since arriving back in Western Australia as a precocious young winemaker in charge of Houghton some years ago, he has established his own label in addition to making wines for other producers such as Robert Oatley wines. He also consults for others, including Wise Wines, which has been transformed in recent years. Cherubino's wines have the stamp of class. They are polished and perfectly finished and he is not afraid to push the envelope in style.
Ray also included 6 of our wines in the guide which all received some great ratings: