Wine Maker Robert Gherardi, remembers as a child the excitement of waking up pre-sunrise to head out to the Swan Valley, or even a world away to Margaret River, to go and pick grapes by hand with his family - three generations of Italians with all the cousins and extended family. From there it was back to his Nonna’s (grandma's) suburban backyard to process the fruit - usually three tonnes of fruit! This was always followed by a big lunch or dinner with the whole wider family along. To this day, his family continues this tradition.
At the age of 27, Robert decided to take the plunge and jump ship in career and commenced his winemaking and viticulture degree completing a full undergraduate program. Since this time he has worked for many esteemed wineries and vineyards in the Margaret River region which have included traditional and completely biodynamic wine making techniques.
As a natural progression, the time came where the urge to begin using his wine skills and experiences lead Robert to craft his own wines and Mr Barval Fine Wines was born.
The cellar door is open by appointment Monday to Wednesday and open to the public Thursday to Sunday.
