BRAND AND HERITAGE
We create wines to be appreciated, explored and enjoyed.
ABOUT WEERONA
Five generations after the Partridges built their family homestead on the banks of the Hunter Valley, winemaker Michael Partridge revives the WEERONA name for his long-awaited new wine label.
From 30 years of obsession with once-in-a-lifetime wines, Michael sources the perfect fruits from Australian vineyards for winemaking where innovation, creativity and details matter. His experience as creator and server balances to coax out rich, aromatic flavours.
WEERONA is the fruit of an evolving wine journey marked by patience, persistence and respect for our rich Earth.
UNEARTHING THE SECRETS OF WEERONA FRUITS
Michael sources reputable vineyards across the Hunter Valley and Mudgee. Based on vineyard performances, Michael hand selects the fruits suited to his vision. Then it’s a patient wait as every single grape in the vineyard forms their character through a year of wind and rain.
At harvest, the rich fruits are revealed themselves and Michael adapts to the harvest to create what can only be a one-off vintage - these specific conditions will never be repeated again.
A NURTURING WINEMAKING PROCESS
Michael’s winemaking reflects his deep knowledge from soil to grape to service of the right wine with the right meal. He responds to what the harvest offers, with a unique combination of fermentation methods, recipes and use of interactive barrels to stimulate fruit performance. Through the delicate maturation process, the winemaker nurtures the fruit to develop its own character and guides one-off vintages. Experience WEERONA - where unforgettable wine experiences are worth waiting for.
WINEMAKER STORY
30-year journey of winemaking
A WINEMAKING DREAM IN aN AUTHENTIC SOUL
In 1990, Michael was sent to Petersons Wines for a job at 18 years old. He had no idea that just a few years later, managing Petersons Sparkling House would spark a lifelong obsession with wine.
Lindeman’s, Mount Pleasant… Michael’s journey continued in wine sales, before setting out for Sydney in 2003 to become a sommelier and follow his dream of serving the perfect drop at the perfect moment. His palate and pairing intuition built his sommelier reputation, but even after being nominated for Sommelier of the Year, his winemaker soul was restless for more.
To pursue his dream of making once-in-a-lifetime wines, it was time for Michael to head home and take a risk on creating those wines himself.
A HOMETOWN REVIVAL
In the following decade, he created Partridge Wines, with two vintages sold out on release in 2011. He consulted for other wineries and taught others about wine at the Hunter Valley Hotel Academy, until the call that would change everything. Colin Peterson, Michael’s mentor, invited him back to the Peterson family fold to manage the Ben Ean Cellar Door, and to create his own label.
In 2020, Michael introduces his first WEERONA collection of limited production boutique Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Chardonnay. After a 30 year journey, WEERONA rewards you with the fruits of Michael’s intense passion for wine.
