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Cabernet clones- A new dawn.

Nic Peterkin

Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the flagship wine varieites of the Western Australian wine industry. Clonal selections and their suitability to region and site is a major factor in determining wine style and vine performance. Six new selections of the top Houghton clones of Cabernet Sauvignon have been released to the public and Pierro is one of the first in the state to plant these new clones of Cabernet



The Houghton clones, selected in the Swan Valley between 1968-1970, were the basis of all the early plantings in the great southern and south west, which have produced many of the states exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Further to this research just published has shown the the Houghton clones are unique to Western Australia, both in their genetics and flavour characteristics. One could argue this could add to the unique terroir of the region.


In a long running trial DAFWA identified 4 houghton clones which produced consistently higher quality grapes and wine with more desirable sensory attributes than SA126 (WA's most widely planted clone of Cabernet Sauvignon) The clones are highly suited to the climate of the South West where they produce high quality fruit and win with distinctive regional character.


We have been making wines from these clones for the past 5 years. What we have found is that this block produces wines that have complext persistent brigh fruit flavours with red berry and black berry characteristics. Mouthfeel and body is enhanced. With the added benefit of reduced herbal and vegetal characters such as capsicum. We have found that even when picking at lower alcohols the wines exibit bright red fruits as opposed to green character.


We are excited to what the future holds with these clones of Cabernet. Its our thought they will further lift the quality of the Pierro wines and also the cabernets of the region.


Information taken from Department of Agriculture and Food.

Nic Peterkin

Nic is a key member of the Pierro team

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31/7/24

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