Cherubino Wines: A Western Australian Story Etched in Vine and Vision
In the remote and rugged corners of Western Australia, where the land rolls with ancient granite and the air carries the scent of eucalyptus and sea spray, Cherubino Wines has quietly become one of the country’s most compelling wine stories. It’s not just about the bottles it’s about a family, a philosophy, and a deep-rooted belief in the power of place.
Origins
The journey began not in a boardroom or a laboratory, but in the backyard of a first generation Australian with Italian roots. Larry Cherubino grew up with the scent of fermenting grapes in the air his family, like many from southern Italy, made wine at home. That early exposure planted a seed that would grow into a lifelong obsession.
In 2004, Larry and his wife Edwina, a fourth generation West Australian with deep ties to the Frankland River region, purchased a modest plot of land in the Great Southern. It was part of the historic Riversdale property, and their dream was simple: plant a vineyard and make wine that spoke of the land. That dream quickly expanded. Today, Cherubino Wines farms over 120 hectares across Frankland River, Pemberton, Porongurup, and Margaret River with each site chosen for its unique character and potential.
The Winemaker: Larry Cherubino
Larry’s path to winemaking wasn’t linear. He began as a horticulturist, then transitioned into wine, eventually becoming head winemaker at Houghton and a sought after consultant across Australia, New Zealand, the U.S., France, and South Africa. But it was always the vineyard that called him back.
Larry’s approach is grounded in vineyard first thinking. He believes that great wine is grown, not manufactured. His style blends traditional techniques with a willingness to experiment, embracing both classic varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, and Chardonnay, and lesser known grapes such as Mencía, Touriga Nacional, and Fiano. His wines are known for their clarity, texture, and sense of place.
The Wines
Cherubino’s portfolio is broad but intentional. From single vineyard bottlings to regional blends, each wine is crafted to reflect its origin. The Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignons are layered and age worthy. And the experimental bottlings like a floral, spicy Mencía or a textured Fiano showcase Larry’s curiosity and confidence. For him, it’s not about chasing trends or trophies it’s about making wines that feel honest, expressive, and enduring.
The Vineyards
Each of Cherubino’s vineyard sites tells a different story:
- Frankland River is the heart of the operation, with gravelly soils and cool nights that yield structured reds and vibrant whites.
- Pemberton offers elevation and a cooler climate, ideal for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay with finesse.
- Porongurup, with its ancient granite ridges, produces aromatic whites with mineral tension.
- Margaret River, the crown jewel of WA, delivers power and elegance in its Cabernet and Chardonnay.
All vineyards are farmed with sustainability in mind no herbicides, minimal copper, and a long-term view that prioritizes soil health and biodiversity.
Awards and Accolades
Cherubino Wines has earned global acclaim for its exceptional craftsmanship. In 2023, it was awarded the Outstanding Wine Producer Trophy at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC), alongside the White Winemaker of the Year title .The winery also received multiple trophies for its Chardonnay wines and was named Winery of the Year in the Matthew Jukes 100 Best Australian Wines 2023/24 . These accolades reflect Cherubino’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and the expressive potential of Western Australia’s diverse terroirs.
Cherubino Wines is more than a brand it’s a living, evolving expression of Western Australia’s potential. It’s about honouring the past while pushing boundaries. And with every vintage, Larry and Edwina are building something that will outlast them: a legacy rooted in land, family, and the belief that wine should always tell a story worth sharing.
