Passel Estate Winery
Barry Stimpson was born in South Africa and his wife came from England. After many dates near the Margaret River, they fell in love with West Australia's natural beauty and the famous wine. In turn, they fell in love with each other. They started living near the Margarat River in 2005, and in 2011 they found a cherished property with vineyards and a bush habitat. They now call their home Passel Estate Winery.
The vineyard was planted by a previous owner in 1994. One and a half hectares was covered with Cabernet Sauvignon grapevines, and just as much was covered by Shiraz grapevines. The new owners decided to plant more Shiraz and 2.6 hectares of Chardonnay grapes. The vineyard is on a gentle hillside, and the rows are oriented north-south. A Vertical Shooting Positioning trellis system is used everywhere.
Andy Ferriera, and experienced viticulturist, manages the grapevines all year. A variety of pruning techniques are used to control yields and to expose the grapes to morning sunlight and good air circulation. Andy Ferriera vigorously embraces green methods, from conserving water to controlling the soil and pests organically.
Bruce Dukes is a highly awarded winemaker who is equally devoted to making wines on the Passel Estate Range. He has enjoyed a formal education and over 20 years of experience working with local producers. There is no objective but quality.
The wines produced are as unique as Passel Estate Winery. They are defined by their fruity perfume and what wine critics call structure and balance. Passel Estate Winery products are rare. They are made in small batches and are an authentic sensation rather than mass produced.