P.J. Charteris

P.J. Charteris: A Legacy Crafted Under the Vines of Pokolbin

Pokolbin, the beating heart of the Hunter Valley, is a region steeped in tradition and innovation, where the craft of winemaking is both an art and a science. Among the luminaries who have shaped this landscape, P.J. Charteris stands out—a winemaker whose journey has intertwined with some of the most significant names and milestones in the Australian wine industry. His story, particularly his time under the mentorship of Iain Riggs at Brokenwood Wines, is a testament to the enduring influence of Pokolbin on the world of wine.

Early Days at Brokenwood: Learning from a Legend

P.J. Charteris’s wine journey took a decisive turn when he joined Brokenwood Wines in 1986, a pivotal moment in his career. Under the guidance of Iain Riggs, a legendary figure in Australian winemaking, Charteris honed his craft and developed a deep understanding of the intricate relationship between terroir and wine.

Iain Riggs, who had taken the reins at Brokenwood in 1982, was instrumental in transforming the winery into one of Australia’s premier producers. His philosophy of meticulous vineyard management, combined with a fearless approach to innovation, left an indelible mark on Charteris. Working alongside Riggs, Charteris was exposed to a wealth of knowledge and expertise, learning not just the technical aspects of winemaking but also the importance of vision, creativity, and respect for the land.

During his time at Brokenwood, Charteris contributed to the creation of some of the winery’s most iconic wines. The Hunter Valley Shiraz and Semillon, two varietals that thrive in the region’s unique climate, became a focus of his work. Under Riggs’s mentorship, Charteris developed a style that was both expressive of the Hunter Valley’s terroir and reflective of his own evolving winemaking philosophy.

The Emergence of Charteris Wines

After years of contributing to the success of Brokenwood, P.J. Charteris embarked on a new chapter in his career by establishing Charteris Wines in 2008. This move allowed him to channel the lessons learned under Riggs into his own label, where he could fully express his vision for winemaking.

Charteris Wines is a brand that marries the influences of two distinct regions: the Hunter Valley and Central Otago in New Zealand. Specialising in Pinot Noir and Riesling, Charteris Wines showcases P.J.’s ability to adapt and excel in different winemaking environments while staying true to the principles instilled in him during his time at Brokenwood. His wines are celebrated for their elegance, balance, and sense of place, each bottle telling the story of the land from which it originates.

While Central Otago provides the cool climate ideal for his chosen varietals, the ethos behind Charteris Wines remains deeply rooted in the experiences and knowledge P.J. gained in the Hunter Valley. The meticulous attention to detail, the pursuit of excellence, and the deep respect for the environment—these are hallmarks of Charteris’s approach, all of which were nurtured during his formative years at Brokenwood.

Innovator, Educator, and Industry Leader

P.J. Charteris’s impact on the wine industry extends beyond the bottles that bear his name. He has become a respected voice in the world of wine, known for his roles as a judge, educator, and mentor. His contributions to wine education are particularly noteworthy, as he shares his extensive knowledge with aspiring winemakers and wine enthusiasts alike.

Charteris’s innovative spirit, cultivated under Iain Riggs’s mentorship, has led him to explore new techniques and practices in winemaking. His commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship is a reflection of his belief in the importance of preserving the land for future generations of winemakers.

Entertaining the Palate, Enriching the Mind

The story of P.J. Charteris is one that captivates both the mind and the palate. His wines are a celebration of the regions he loves, crafted with the precision and passion that he first developed at Brokenwood under Iain Riggs. For those who appreciate the art of winemaking, Charteris’s journey offers a rich narrative filled with lessons on the importance of mentorship, the value of innovation, and the enduring influence of place.

In Pokolbin, where the legacy of winemaking runs deep, P.J. Charteris continues to be a vital part of the region’s story. His wines, like the man himself, are a blend of tradition and forward-thinking, rooted in the Hunter Valley but with a vision that extends far beyond. Through his work, Charteris not only entertains the palate with his exceptional wines but also enriches the mind with his contributions to the ongoing dialogue of what it means to be a winemaker in the modern era.

For those visiting Pokolbin or savouring a bottle of Charteris Wines, there is much to discover and appreciate in the legacy of P.J. Charteris—a legacy that informs, educates, and, above all, entertains.