i. Biography
Vineyard work and cellar work sit on the same line at Picardy Winery in Pemberton, Western Australia, where Dan Pannell’s practice is shaped by place as much as by formal training. Moss Wood Winery in Margaret River gave him an early grounding in the daily cadence of wine country, and the University of Adelaide added structure to that base. The result is a style of work that treats Burgundian-style Pinot Noir as something to be maintained with care, cellared with restraint, and interpreted without excess.
Coming Up
University of Adelaide gave Dan Pannell a formal framework to match the vineyard context he already knew from Margaret River. At Picardy Wines, that background supports a role that moves between vineyard, winery, and the commercial work needed to keep a wine business running.
Where They Are Now
At Picardy Winery in Pemberton, Western Australia, Dan Pannell describes his remit directly: “I am the winemaker, vineyard manager, and business manager at Picardy Winery in Pemberton, Western Australia.” The title covers constant movement between blocks, cellar, and office. In the vineyard, the work is about reading the season through the vines; in the winery, it comes down to precision and a light hand; and beyond that, the business side keeps the estate functioning as a whole. Minimal handling is central to his current approach, both in vineyard management and in the cellar. That keeps the focus on vineyard terroir rather than winery intervention. The style is disciplined without being severe, aimed at clarity and texture, with Burgundian-style Pinot Noir as the clearest expression of his work at Picardy.
Signature
Dan's signature wines include 2024 Sauvignon Blanc Semillon, 2021 Boisé Sauvignon Blanc Semillon, and 2023 Chardonnay. Together they show a range that sits alongside his Pinot Noir focus at Picardy.
In Their Words “The thing I enjoy most about our industry is being able to go to the winery on a weekend when there’s no one else around and taste our wines in barrel in peace and quiet.”
Honors
The recognition around his work comes from consistency in place and method. Picardy’s Burgundian-style Pinots in Australia depend on the same combination of vineyard management, winemaking, and business stewardship that defines Dan Pannell’s role in Pemberton.
Profile updated July 2026
FAQ
Asked of Dan
What is Dan Pannell's current role?
As of 2026, Dan Pannell is Vineyard Manager.
Where did Dan Pannell train or study?
Dan Pannell trained at University of Adelaide.
What is Dan Pannell known for?
Burgundian-style Pinot Noir.
