Express Winemakers

Express Winemakers is a beautiful Australian winemaking project born from the dream of Ryan O'Meara and Pete Ikstrums, first-generation winemakers intent on restoring and enhancing abandoned vineyards scattered across the Great Southern, a region of Western Australia characterised by a Mediterranean climate, ideal for growing grapes. Before embarking on their adventure, Ryan and Pete collected a series of work experiences throughout Europe, California and Australia, then made their first personal wine in 2011 with small quantities of Riesling and Syrah from a local vineyard. Over the years, the number of plots worked has steadily increased to the current number of six, spread between the areas of Denmark, Mount Barker and Porongurup.

Embracing the principles of organic farming, Ryan and Pete of Express Winemakers raise the international grape varieties Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Malbec, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Cabernet Franc, Riesling, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Marsanne, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. These grow on soils of a granitic nature, rich in sand, iron and gravel depending on the parcel in question, in areas characterised by a rather cool microclimate, an element that favours the aromas and taste dynamism of the wines. The aim of the two winegrowers is to establish a physiological and productive balance in the plants, excluding the use of mineral fertilisers and synthetic chemicals. The same genuine approach is adopted in the cellar, where fermentation is entrusted solely to indigenous yeasts and the use of clarification and filtration is excluded. The types of wine containers adopted range from steel tanks to large oak casks, passing through barriques, cement vats and peculiar ceramic containers.

Express Winemakers' wines are striking for their straightforward and direct identity, far from any oenological conformism, a reflection of the genuine style of winemakers Ryan O'Meara and Pete Ikstrums. A highlight is then their fresh and juicy taste, of exceptional smoothness.