THE WINE ADVENTURER JOURNEY THROUGH THE EXTRAORDINARY WINE REGIONS OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA
SWAN VALLEY • PERTH HILLS • PEEL • GEOGRAPHE • MARGARET RIVER BLACKWOOD VALLEY • SOUTHERN FORESTS • GREAT SOUTHERN
2021
8
25 MINUTES
SWAN VALLEY Australia’s second oldest wine region, full of friendly and historic wine families.
from Perth 49 Wineries 14
30 MINUTES
PERTH HILLS Quaint and picturesque and a stone’s-throw from Perth, with native forests aplenty.
from Perth 21 Wineries
18
1 HOUR
from Perth 5 Wineries
PEEL A perfect family-friendly wine destination for a day trip from Perth. 22
2 HOURS
from Perth 28 Wineries
GEOGRAPHE With coast to rolling hills, it is one of Australia’s most exciting, emerging regions. 26
MARGARET RIVER
3 HOURS
The iconic, breathtaking, internationally-renowned wine destination.
from Perth 160 Wineries 36
3 HOURS
from Perth 16 Wineries
BLACKWOOD VALLEY WA’s best kept wine secret. Stunning countryside with a little old-world charm. 40
3.5 HOURS
from Perth 10 Wineries
SOUTHERN FORESTS The gourmand's paradise, an epicentre of world-class WA produce, including truffles. 44
4 HOURS
from Perth 52 Wineries
GREAT SOUTHERN Vast and peaceful, WA’s home of cool climate wines is the ultimate escape.
YANCHEP
SWAN VALLEY
CHITTERING VALLEY
SWAN VALLEY
YORK
PERTH BICKLEY VALLEY
PERTH HILLS JARRAHDALE
MANDURAH
CENTRAL WA
PEEL
GEOGRAPHE
HARVEY
BUNBURY
FERGUSON VALLEY CAPEL KATANNING
DONNYBROOK
YALLINGUP BUSSELTON
MARGARET RIVER
BALINGUP KOJONUP
MARGARET RIVER
NANNUP
BOYUP BROOK BRIDGETOWN
FRANKLAND RIVER
MANJIMUP AUGUSTA PEMBERTON
BLACKWOOD VALLEY
PORONGURUP MOUNT BARKER WALPOLE
DENMARK
SOUTHERN FORESTS
ALBANY
GREAT SOUTHERN
A Naturally Wonderful
DESTINATION Western Australia is home to vast and extraordinary wine regions, many crafting wines that are sought-after, worldwide. The land is ancient and pristine, with breathtaking features that are truly diverse. There’s coastal Margaret River and its iconic estates to Australia’s historic Swan Valley, the epic Great Southern and so much more. Travelling in WA often feels like you are the first to discover the uncharted, which is the beauty of exploring these regions. So start planning and be ready to have your senses blown as you uncover this secluded natural paradise. We acknowledge the traditional custodians throughout the South West of Western Australia / Noongar Boodjar and their continuing connection to the land, waters and communities. We pay our respects to all members of the Wadjuk, Pinjarup, Wilman, Wardandi, Pibelman, Kaniyang, Menang, Koreng Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders past, present and emerging.
Plan Your
JOURNEY
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WHEN TO VISIT
PRE-BOOK EXPERIENCES
TRAVELLING AROUND
All seasons offer unique and magical experiences. Vintage runs between January and April (see region), and is a bustling time to visit as people from near and far arrive to help pick grapes and make wine. The vine leaves turn orange and the land, a vibrant green in May with the first rainfall. It is truly stunning. Winter (June August) is perfect for relaxed, cosy days enjoying local cuisine. The forests around the vineyards glow with wildflowers in September and then Summer returns by late November for enjoying Western Australia's pristine beaches.
Many cellar doors are open daily and will be pleased to welcome you for a wine tasting without a booking. For something extra special, there are a variety of bespoke tours and unique winery experiences that allow you to fully immerse yourself in the local wine culture. Bookings are essential.
A comfortable, reliable vehicle is essential for travelling around the wine regions. This can be your own car, a hire car, or leave the driving to someone else by joining a wine tour. As for tours, there are a range of options for your wine journey - everything from luxury chauffeurs to Kombi vans, bush tucker wine tours and more. These can span one day or a few. Taxis in regional towns can be scarce, and ride share services like Uber aren’t yet available, so plan transport in advance or select your accommodation with this in mind.
Go off the beaten track with smaller owners or winemakers who are happy meet you at their property for a tasting with advanced notice. Many renowned food and wine festivals also take place during the year.
Every day is an ideal day to take a wine adventure. Create your ultimate journey with these travel tips!
TASTE WINE LIKE A PRO
VISIT A FEW REGIONS
TAKE CARE OF THE VINES
Wine is made to be shared and Western Australia's wineries have many characterful people waiting to introduce you to their creations. Tasting is an adventure of the senses, so savour the wines you love most, but don’t be afraid to use your spittoon. Cleanse your palate and hydrate with water whenever you can. Even if you are tasting with the winemaker, it is always ok to ask for a spittoon, especially if you are the driver. You can always buy a bottle for later!
The joy of travelling around WA is the space to get out into nature and discover the Earth’s diverse and magnificent beauty which varies dramatically through the wine regions. Perth Hills and the Swan Valley are within 30 minutes drive of capital city, Perth, for a day trip, while three to five days will allow you to explore the iconic Margaret River or Great Southern and neighbouring regions. Allow up to ten days to travel through all wine regions in a single trail.
Western Australia has some of the only remaining vineyards in the world that can grow vines on their own rootstock because all of its wine regions are free of a vine pest called Phylloxera. To help preserve these rare and treasured vines, avoid walking through vine rows unless you are invited to in your tour. Don’t worry, there are plenty of photos you can take around the vines to share your experience with friends and family.
1 Standard drink = 6 tastes x 15ml @ 13% alc
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EXPLORE BEHIND THE SCENES
Select Your
WINERIES
Sharpen up your wine knowledge, learn what techniques keep WA wines at the forefront of the new world, or see how your favourite wines are made.
From rustic sheds to grand estates and everything in between, there are endless adventures waiting for you at Western Australia's wineries.
FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY TASTE WITH THE OWNER Many WA wineries are small, owner-maker operations that love the chance to ‘down tools’ and share their wines, making for a truly authentic experience. 6
Most wineries welcome children, and some take their kid-friendly facilities to the next level with playgrounds, video games, lawn sports, paddle-boats and more.
PICTURE PERFECT ESTATES Marvel at the spectacular architecture and manicured grounds of WA's wine estates. Aspiring blogger? Wineries love sharing your social media posts!
AUTHENTIC REGIONAL DINING
VINEYARD STAYS
WA grows superb produce which is the envy of chefs, world-wide. The winery restaurants include Australia’s finest. Don’t miss local truffles and marron if in season.
Waking up surrounded by rolling vineyards is something of dreams. Rustic, through to luxury, cosy and quaint options are available to live your best wine country life.
WINEMAKER FOR A DAY Want to try your hand at picking grapes during harvest or learn to blend your own wine? Many wineries can’t wait to critique your vineyard and blending skills.
ART, MUSEUMS & COLLECTABLES
WINERY PROVIDORES
A winery with a surfboard museum? A vintage camera collection, fine art or a sensory garden? Curious winery galleries can be found in all regions.
Where there is wine, there is often an array of other gourmet treats. Plan your days around wineries that make nougat, dukkah, olive oil, charcuterie, honey and more.
HISTORIC & ICONIC WA is home to some of Australia's most important and historic wineries with many offering distinct regional experiences for all budgets.
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SWAN VALLEY Australia's second oldest wine region boasting some of the country's oldest vines, the Swan Valley is a short 25 minute drive from the Perth CBD. The wine community is a close mix of families, many who have refined their winemaking craft over multiple generations. A favourite day-trip or overnight destination for Perth locals, the vineyards are surrounded by wonderful food, beverage and nature-based attractions, enjoyed by adults and children alike.
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HERO VARIETIES Chenin Blanc, Verdelho, Grenache, Shiraz and fortified wines
CLIMATE Warm Mediterranean climate, with cool breezes from the Indian Ocean
DRIVE TIMES
GINGIN
Perth - Swan Valley
25 minutes
Perth - Gingin
1 hour
Neighbouring Wine Regions Perth Hills, Peel
YA N C H E P INDIAN OCEAN
SWAN VALLEY PERTH CBD
G U I L D FO R D
Swan Valley North to South: 18km Swan Valley West to East: 10km 47 Wineries (37 Cellar Doors) swanvalleywine.com SWAN VALLEY WINE REGION Wadjuk Country
Vineyard Tour at The Olive Farm
HARVEST Mid January to March
SOILS Loamy sands through to red gravelly sands and red gravelly loams
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Sandalford
Nikola Estate
THE SWAN VALLEY
THE ORIGINALS
History in the Making
Explore Heritage Wineries
Established in 1829, the Swan Valley is one of Australia’s oldest wine growing regions, second in age only to the Hunter Valley, which was established a few years prior.
The Swan Valley is a special place where wineries have heritage that transcends many generations. Olive Farm Wines is a four generation winery whose story dates back to 1829. Its cellar door is architecturally designed and their vine to bottle tour is a great window into the region's past and present. Sandalford's history dates back to 1840. Its restaurant is a drawcard, along with a popular Perth to Swan Valley cruise tour. The historic Houghton cellar door and wine memorabilia museum has been preserved at Nikola Wines, while family-run John Kosovich Wines, Talijancich Wines, Windy Creek Estates and Edgecombe Brothers have been making impressive table and fortified wines since the 1920s and 1930s. A tasting (often with the family) is a precious opportunity in the context of Australian wine history.
The region is flourishing with magnificent wineries, breweries, distilleries, gourmet artisan producers, handcrafted wares, markets, art studios and a myriad of eateries, just 25 minutes from Perth. The earth is rich and fruit and vegetables ripen to perfection under a warm sun. Grape varietals flourish in this region that takes its fresh produce seriously. Strong family lineage still remains within some of the oldest wineries, and a new generation is bringing renewed energy to the wine scene.
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THE MID-CENTURY VINEYARDS Unassuming Wineries with Truly Beautiful Stories From the 1950s, another wave of wineries emerged in the Swan Valley, many established by migrants from Europe who worked labour-intensive jobs to save for land, upon which vines were planted. Vino Italia and Valley Wines are two examples making wine in their 'Nonno's' style that is available by the flagon to take away. Ambrook Wines focus on Italian wines from similarly aged vines and serve delicious antipasto
platters, while a tasting with the family winemakers of Garbin Estate is an experience to treasure. Jane Brook Estate's deli is offers delicious tapanades and cheeses to enjoy with wine on their lovely grounds, while Lamonts is a Western Australian institution for a Sunday long lunch. A 30 minute drive west lands you at Paul Conti Wines of the same era, where the original homestead is now a fine dining restaurant.
THE SWAN VALLEY 11
Sittella
Mandoon Estate
Pinelli Estate
UNIQUE EXPERIENCES FOR ALL TASTES Wineries to Linger a Little Longer Mandoon Estate is a favourite for all tastes with a winery, a brewery and an art gallery. Their Bush Tucker tour is an awesome way to learn about Wadjuk culture. Weekends at Ugly Duckling Wines are buzzing with live, local music, occasional artisan market days and gourmet pies. The housemade pies at Heafod Glen Winery's old hayshed cellar are delicious too. Sittella's imaginative restaurant architecture and earth-rendered winery is a jewel of the region for a superb lunch, as is the local-produce driven menu at Black Swan Winery. For tasty Italian cuisine with a side of award-winning wine, visit Pinelli Estate or Riverbank Estate. Travel behind the scenes at the lauded Faber Vineyard or Upper Reach, home of WA's only breakfast and winery tour. Their wine appreciation class is incredibly fun too. The paddle boats at Oakover Estate or The Laughin' Barrel's playground are great for kids.
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S TAY
NATURE
Day trip from Perth CBD or stay amidst the vines in a winery cabin or resort
Hike or picnic at Bells Rapids, or visit the local wildlife parks with the kids
FOOD
CULTURE
Enjoy endless Entwined in the winery dining Valley is a festival choices, nougat, in October, shop honey, chocolate for antiques in gelato and more Guildford
LESSER-KNOWN TREASURES Pop By these Fascinating, Niche Wineries Creative winemaking runs throughout the Swan Valley's lengthy history and there are many small cellar doors to drop into and discover specialist winemakers that are bringing new energy to the Valley. Swan Valley Wines have a love for nature and a minimal intervention approach to their one-of-akind wines. At Harris Organic Wine learn how organic wine is made with a guided walking tour through their vineyard, underground cellar and winery. If it's August, don't miss Mann Estate's unassuming cellar door; home of epic sparkling wine and their proprietary grape, Cygne Blanc, which sells out quickly upon release. Pandemonium Estate, Little
Black Dog Wines, Corymbia and Vino Volta represent a new generation's perspective on winemaking in the region and a tasting appointment with these artisan producers will reveal why trendy Perth sommeliers are obsessed with these producers. Similarly, the 100 year old vines at Henley Park and Tylers Wines may be in new hands, but make some very special wines that are great to share with friends at a dinner party. Break up the tastings with a glass of wine and relaxed cheese platter at Lancaster Estate's rustic tasting shed, or if quaint is more your style, the French inspired Little River Winery is a treasure with delicious French food in its cafe next door.
THE SWAN VALLEY
Collect some wines to take for a hike at Bells Rapids and enjoy the sunset
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PERTH HILLS An easy 30 minute drive from Perth city, the Perth Hills is the perfect escape to absorb the abundant flora and fauna of the Darling Scarp. The boutique winemaking scene comprises of mostly owner-operator artisan producers, making award-winning, progressive wines. Taste with the owners or enjoy casual to deluxe vineyard dining that is guaranteed to be relaxing. Weekends are the best time for a day trip or an overnight recharge in nature.
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HERO VARIETIES Viognier, Vermentino, Durif, Shiraz
CLIMATE Elevated, Continental with great micro-climatic variation
C H IT T E R I N G VA L L E Y DRIVE TIMES Perth - Chittering Valley
50 minutes
Perth - Heart of the Hills or Bickley
30 minutes
Perth - Serpentine
40 minutes
Chittering Valley - Serpentine
1.5 hours
Neighbouring Wine Regions Swan Valley, Peel
Avo n Val l ey Na t io na l Pa rk
INDIAN OCEAN
Jo h n Fo rre s t Na t io na l Pa rk
PERTH CBD
HEART OF THE HILLS BICKLEY VA L L E Y Munda ri ng Sta te Fo re s t
S E R P E N TI N E
North to South: 175km Region West to East: 25km 22 Wineries (20 Cellar Doors) perthhillswineregion.com.au PERTH HILLS WINE REGION Wadjuk Country
The picturesque Millbrook Estate in Jarrahdale.
HARVEST Early March to late April
SOILS Sandy and gravelly loams to brown clay soils, altitude 10-573m
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Myattsfield
16
Brookside Vineyard
CHITTERING VALLEY
HEART OF THE HILLS
BICKLEY VALLEY
Rustic, Farm-Fresh Experiences
Nature Escapes & Long Lunches
Boutique Wine Treasure Hunting
Dotted with small farms, this northern pocket of the Perth Hills region is especially pretty in winter when its hills and valleys turn vibrant green. The pintsized wineries offer true country hospitality. Try heritage-filled Nesci Wine Estate’s 30 year aged Tawny, Sunday music at the rustic Stringybark Winery or lunch at Alicia Estate with a tipple of Honey Mead. Time your day trip with the monthly Bindoon Farmers Market. On other weekends you'll often see road stalls selling fresh honey, chutneys and fruit.
Scattered around the beautiful bushwalking trails of John Forrest National Park, the charming wineries in the Heart of the Hills are perfect for a relaxing lunch surrounded by nature. There are casual to gourmet options, including à la carte dining at Darlington Estate Winery or hearty cuisine at Malmalling Estate. A tasting of the estategrown, handpicked wines of Lion Mill Vineyard with their friendly winemakers will reward enthusiasts, plus the kids will love their alpacas.
Unearth a patchwork of wine styles with the common link of artisan makers and countless awards, located in a 20km loop. Taste classic or alternative styles with the owners at Tonon Vineyard, Hainault Vineyard, Myattsfield and more. A vertical tasting at Ashley Estate is a treat, as are the exquisite English gardens and lunch menu of Brookside Vineyard. Italian wine fans will love La Fattoria's 'Nonna's lunch'. End your day at Lesmurdie Falls for a sunset picnic with views of Perth, or look up The Packing Shed's Friday live music program.
PERTH HILLS
SERPENTINE A Waterfall & Storybook Estate In the historic town of Jarrahdale, Serpentine has popular hiking trails and the picturesque Serpentine Falls, a small waterfall for swimming, just 50 minutes drive from Perth. Millbrook Estate is the primary winery here and has the largest vineyards of the region. Its restaurant is one of Western Australia's most critically acclaimed and features seasonal ingredients with a minimal-waste philosophy. The whole family will also love the woodfired pizzas at Rocksgate Winery (beside Araluen Botanical Garden).
Watch the sunset over Perth from Lesmurdie Falls.
S TAY
NATURE
FOOD
CULTURE
Book a forest chalet, cottage, retreat or a tiny house amidst the bush
Hike the National Parks in September for wildflowers and waterfalls
A winery lunch or platter is essential choose from many options
Visit farmers markets, historical museums and art galleries
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PEEL PEEL
An emerging wine region with around 200 hectares of wine grapes, Peel is located south and south-east of Perth, beside the regional centre of Mandurah. Peel stretches from the Indian Ocean, then east to the Perth Hills and Wandering, offering diverse climatic conditions for viticulture, plus unique nature-based experiences. Most wineries are located within an hour's drive from Perth CBD, making Peel a popular day-trip destination.
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HERO VARIETIES Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Shiraz
CLIMATE Mediterranean - inland areas have land breezes and lower temperature
PERTH CBD DRIVE TIMES Perth - Mandurah (train available)
50 minutes
Mandurah - Secret Harbour
20 minutes
Mandurah - Lake Clifton
30 minutes
INDIAN OCEAN
SECRET HARBOUR
Neighbouring Wine Regions Geographe, Perth Hills
MANDURAH
LAKE C L I F TO N
W A RO O N A Dwe lli ngup Sta te Fo re s t
North to South: 100km West to East: 120km 5 Wineries (4 Cellar Doors) P Ewinewa.asn.au/peel EL WINE REGION PEEL WINE REGION Pinjarup Country
Discover over 17 grape varieties at Drakesbook Estate
HARVEST Mid February to mid March
SOILS Limestone sand to ancient granite and gravel, altitude 5-290m
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Peel Estate Wines
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MANDURAH
LAKE CLIFTON
The Original Base
Family Friendly & The Thrombolites
The major regional centre of Peel, Mandurah is a buzzing place with stunning canals and waterways. It is a great base if staying in the region. Foodies will love the restaurants of Dolphin Quay and Ocean Marina which feature local wine and seafood. A quick 20 minute drive north gets you to Peel Estate Wines, the first winery in the region. After your wine tasting in the colonial-style cellar door, stroll the gardens, stay for a picnic or perhaps enjoy live music on selected Sundays in summer. Around the corner, book a tasting with WA’s chilli winemaking experts, Stakehill Estate Winery.
Visit the largest Thrombolite reef in the southern hemisphere. Thrombolites are the oldest living rocks on earth and best seen in March and April. What’s better, they are located just a 60 metre walk from Cape Bouvard Winery, a family-friendly place for lunch. It’s hard to leave nearby Lake Clifton Winery without a bottle of their tasty mango wine or plum port. Lake Clifton is a perfect day trip from Perth or Mandurah and several tours make this journey incredibly easy. 20 minutes inland from Lake Clifton (or 30 minutes from Mandurah), will land you in Waroona to visit Drakesbrook Wines at the top of the Darling
Scarp. Owner Bernard grows an interesting mix of 17 traditional and alternative grape varieties for his small batch wines and often sells free range eggs and citrus fruits from the cellar door / cafe too. Drakesbrook Weir or Lake Navarino are nice spots to swim, fish, canoe, picnic, bushwalk and birdwatch. Another 40 minutes east gets you to Dwellingup, a town with quaint cafes, a traditional pub, and Redgum Wine Estate which is undergoing major refurbishment and due to reopen mid-2021. Another hour east at Wandering is Tanglefoot Wines with a lovely cellar door and café.
S TAY
NATURE
FOOD
CULTURE
Mandurah has plenty of hotels, camp sites, houses or even houseboats
See the rare Thrombolites at Lake Clifton or look for dolphins on a cruise
Eat local blueswimmer crab with local wine at Mandurah’s vibrant marinas
Get to Crabfest, a famous event in March, or cruise the Christmas canal lights
PEEL
Dolphin Quay, Mandurah
The Thrombolites
Peel's Famous Blue Swimmer Crabs
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GEOGRAPHE An exciting, emerging region of family-owned wineries, whose diverse styles reflect the micro-climates of Geographe’s rolling hills, cool, protected valleys and Jarrah and Marri forests. Italian heritage is alive at many wineries and there is a wonderful collection of Mediterranean and alternative varieties to explore. The bustling Bunbury and Busselton town centres, with shops, cafes and plentiful accommodation are a perfect base for a visit.
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HERO VARIETIES Chardonnay, Shiraz, Tempranillo, Italian and Spanish varietals
CLIMATE Mediterranean - warm to hot summers, with sea breezes off the Indian Ocean
DRIVE TIMES Perth - Bunbury
2 hours
Bunbury - Donnybrook
30 minutes
Bunbury - Ferguson Valley
15 minutes
Bunbury - Busselton
40 minutes
Neighbouring Wine Regions Margaret River, Blackwood Valley, Peel
INDIAN OCEAN
HARVEY BUNBURY FERGUSON VA L L E Y CAPEL B U S S E LTO N
D O N N YB RO O K
North to South: 120km West to East: 100km 26 Wineries (17 Cellar Doors) geographewine.com.au GEOGRAPHE WINE REGION Pinjarup & Wilman Country
Whicher Ridge is home to Australia's first wine sensory garden.
HARVEST Early February to mid April
SOILS Coastal sands over limestone, to rich gravelly loams inland. 0-406m altitude
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Whicher Ridge
BUSSELTON & CAPEL The Perfect Coastal Pit-Stop
Busselton Jetty
S TAY Beachside in Busselton, at a hotel in Bunbury or find a cosy B&B inland
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NATURE
FOOD
CULTURE
Beachside dining A hub of regional Hike or bike, in Bunbury and art in WA with see dolphins Busselton is a major gallery, in Bunbury or swim in pristine essential, as is a music and street winery lunch art scene Geographe Bay
A perfect stop before Margaret River or Southern Forests, Busselton is famous for its 1.8km jetty, the longest of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Visit the acclaimed Capel Vale winery for a late lunch or high tea, then discover Australia’s first wine sensory garden at Whicher Ridge, planted with fruit trees, herbs, flowers and vegetables to reflect the flavours of their wines. The calm white sandy beaches are great for swimming, fishing and canoeing. Busselton also hosts regional WA's largest annual events program.
Barton Jones
Oakway Estate
Vineyard 28
FERGUSON VALLEY
DONNYBROOK
HARVEY
Small Batch Wines & Spectacular Vistas
A Produce Mecca with the Best Playground Ever
A Gem of Agricultural Goodness
A mecca for small-batch wineries and creative offerings. Prepare for wonderful views wherever you travel, like at the award-winning Willow Bridge Estate or Green Door Wines. Taste Green Door's Spanish and Italian varieties 'blind' for the ultimate challenge! Enjoy an essential long lunch at arty Hackersley Estate or St Aidan’s Winery, while a tasty pie from Dardanup Bakery is great if on the move. Mount Lennard's bike trails attract riders from near and far, and no trip is complete without seeing the 5,000 gnomes of Gnomesville.
Home of a small Australian gold rush in the late 1800s, today the valleys glisten with wine grapes, olives, nuts and apples. In Donnybrook you'll find some of Geographe’s best emerging wineries. Try Barrecas’ reds; their Barbera often sells out. Dogfriendly Barton Jones has a cool, solar-powered, straw cellar door with great views and platters. Taste local delicacy, Marron at Smallwater Estate or seek out Oakway Estate’s epic long table lunch. Nearby, Australia’s biggest free playground is perfect for kids.
One of Australia’s prime producing regions, famous for its oranges and beef. Tree-changer enthusiasm and the Italian spirit make Harvey wines extra special. Vineyard 28 is accessible for a day trip from Perth or a great stop for a wine flight or platter when travelling to Margaret River. Nearer to Harvey town, taste the Skipworth Wine Co. range with owner Kim, or Harvey River Estate's sought-after 10 year old Muscat. Kids will love climbing their 10 metre ‘big orange'. Gourmet store GeoVino has wonderful cheeses, pâté and olives.
GEOGRAPHE
Green Door Wines
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MARGARET RIVER The Margaret River Wine Region is celebrated worldwide as a bucket-list destination, famous for its esteemed wines, gourmet produce and breathtaking beaches. There are nearly 100 cellar doors to visit with a broad array of experiences that fuse the region's relaxed coastal lifestyle, gastronomic creativity and bohemian-like arts scene in wonderful ways. Margaret River wine region is an easy drive from Perth, or fly from Melbourne with a direct flight.
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HERO VARIETIES Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon
CLIMATE Mediterranean with a strong maritime influence
D U N S B O RO U G H DRIVE TIMES Perth - Margaret River
2.5-3 hours
Cape Naturaliste - Margaret River
50 minutes
Cape Leeuwin - Margaret River
40 minutes
Neighbouring Wine Regions Geographe, Southern Forests, Blackwood Valley
B U S S E LTO N INDIAN OCEAN
MARGARET RIVER TO W N
Bla c k wo o d Sta te Fo re s t
A U G U S TA SOUTHERN OCEAN North to South: 100km West to East: 27km 160 Wineries (97 Cellar Doors) margaretriver.wine MARGARET RIVER WINE REGION Wardandi Country
Point Picquet, near Dunsborough
HARVEST Early February to late April
SOILS Gravel loam on granite and gneiss, altitude 0-234m
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Leeuwin Estate
Cullen Wines
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Vasse Felix
MARGARET RIVER
THE ORIGINALS
A Breathtaking Wine Destination
Margaret River's Enduring Pioneers
The lure of this pristine, coastal region spreads far and wide. In less than fifty years, Margaret River has achieved a reputation as a world-leading fine wine region, particularly for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. One of Australia's most desirable culinary travel destinations, the region's worldly winemakers, chefs and creatives bring a vast background of expertise to deliver truly memorable experiences. The geographically-isolated environment features the most ancient soils on Earth. The ecosystem is globally important as one of 32 biodiversity hotspots, home to abundant populations of endemic flora and flora. Wines tend toward the elegant and refined, and winemakers have a strong persuasion towards expressing Margaret River's distinct terroir. In this pursuit, organic viticulture is on the rise with wineries of small to significant sizes.
The original wineries of Margaret River were established from the late 1960s and remain as significant today as they were back then. Vasse Felix and Leeuwin Estate offer some of Australia's leading winery destination experiences where you can easily spend a day. Book into an immersive behind-thescenes wine tour, lunch in their highly-acclaimed restaurants or stroll around their art galleries. The winery tour at Cape Mentelle is another opportunity to discover the winemaking approach of a regional hero, while the esteemed Cullen Wines embraces its biodynamic wine philosophy in many ways, including a focus on estate-grown produce on its restaurant menu. This provenance-rich pairing makes their wines shine extra bright. Fine wine collectors will also love a private appointment at Moss Wood, or a visit to the Woodlands Wines and Juniper Estate cellar doors.
S TAY
NATURE
Hire a beach house, relax in a hotel, glamp, camp or enjoy a rustic villa
Hike the Cape to Cape track, stroll majestic Boranup Forest, explore caves
FOOD
CULTURE
Winery lunches Don't miss the are essential and famous culinary for dinner, head and surf festivals, to Margaret River art studios and or Dunsborough Aboriginal tours
MARGARET RIVER
The Gourmet Escape in Margaret River is one of many of the region's celebrated food and wine festivals
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Howard Park
Amelia Park
Voyager Estate
STATEMENT-MAKING ESTATES Magical Destinations for a Quintessential Margaret River Wine Experience
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Many Margaret River cellar doors are spectacular monuments in their own right, with their thoughtful architecture and manicured grounds taken as seriously as the winemaking process itself. Visitors really are spoilt for choice in this region. The quality of wine, dining and experiences is consistently high, especially at these drawcard estates.
Fortified Shiraz. Further south, stop at Hamelin Bay to see the stingrays or travel a little further to reach Cape Leeuwin, where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet. Stop at the contemporary Hamelin Bay Winery to re-energise with a Ploughman's Platter and a glass of crisp white wine from the cooler southern end of the Margaret River wine region.
Voyager Estate and Xanadu are two celebrated wineries just south of Margaret River town, both with perfect grounds, friendly cellar doors and celebrated restaurants. Recently organic-certified, Voyager also offers several bookable wine masterclasses and dining experiences. Also in this pocket of Margaret River you will find Stella Bella, known especially for its vibrant Semillon Sauvignon Blancs. Visit their relaxed cellar door for a tasting, or continue driving to Redgate Wines. Amidst their regional wines is a tasty
North of Margaret River town there are significantly more cellar doors to visit. The architecturally-awarded Howard Park is an experience in itself. Many tasting options are available here, with the region's only sparkling wine flight as a highlight. Nearby, longstanding winery Lenton Brae's striking bell tower is equally special. Their weekday winery tour is often hosted by the owners, who have seen over 30 Margaret River vintages and have plenty of stories to tell. The fairytale-esque buildings of Fermoy Estate,
Swings & Roundabouts
MARGARET RIVER
Larry Cherubino
Knotting Hill, Amelia Park or Fraser Gallop Estate's manor are extremely photogenic, with each winery making well-collected regional styles. The sleek cellar doors of some very well-known Margaret River labels such as Evans & Tate, Robert Oatley and Brookland Valley are also in proximity, open daily and offering chic tastings. Dine at the latter's Flutes Restaurant for French-inspired cuisine, or try Rustico at Hay Shed Hill for Mediterranean tapas. For a relaxed vineyard lunch, visit Fishbone Wines, whose deluxe sushi is delicious, or graze on a platter at Larry Cherubino Wines, where the extensive wine range includes styles from Margaret River, the Great Southern and Southern Forests regions. Snake & Herring's portfolio reflects these diverse local wine regions as well. Further north in Yallingup is one of Western Australia's most highly-awarded restaurants, Wills Domain. For
the ultimate indulgence, choose their three-course set menu. The ultimate chilled-out lunch stop is Swings & Roundabouts, known for their woodfired pizzas, live music and epic playground. You can easily spend all afternoon here with friends, family or a good book. If the kids are with you, stop by family-friendly Flametree Wines, with its lovely Hamptons architecture and vast lawns or visit 3 Oceans which has a kids zone with video games and toys. Bring your own picnic to Deep Woods Estate to spend some serious time with their seriously-awarded wines and stunning views. Up in Dunsborough, complete your time on Eagle Bay's calm beaches with a family-friendly winery lunch at Wise Wine or Palmer Wines. Alternatively, peruse the pottery gallery of Happs Winery before grabbing a basket to build your own picnic hamper of local cheeses and charcuterie to enjoy beside their vines.
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Arlewood Estate
Brown Hill Estate
DELIGHTFUL WINE FAMILIES Authentic Experiences at Margaret River's Boutique Family Wineries Small family wineries represent a significant portion of Margaret River's producers. Even the majority of the original pioneers and other major estates remain family-owned. The following boutique wineries are operations where there is a high chance you will meet the owner or winemaker during a visit. They are perfect for travellers who love to uncover quaint, artisan wines with wonderful family stories. Credaro Family Estate is a great place to start. The family of Italian heritage migrated to the Margaret River region in the 1920s. As is the Italian style, they made wines for their own private consumption over many decades. Take an afternoon picnic to their Tuscanstyle cellar door and enjoy classic Margaret River varieties alongside their family's favourite Italian styles. Gralyn Estate, Willespie, Ashbrook Estate and Woody Nook Wines each have vines dating
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back to the late 1970s with nearly all remaining in the same family's hands since establishment. Many of these wines are only available directly from the winery, meaning you can find some wonderful treasures, such as stunning old-vine Cabernets and Margaret River heritage ports. Chardonnay lovers will enjoy Pierro, which has long been celebrated for its everlasting regional style. Thompson Estate, Victory Point Wines and Higher Plane are nearby wineries with an impressive awards cabinet for Cabernet and Chardonnay too. Domaine Naturaliste takes an agronomist's approach to wine, drawing upon extensive soil knowledge for their noteworthy wines. Their tasting room offers panoramic vineyard views. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxed vine-side afternoon of grazing on local treats such as Margaret River venison chorizo and house-made dips at the
charming Brookwood Estate, the optional wine tasting add on is ideal for people who like to try a little bit of everything. Chocolate addict? Enjoy the wine and artisan chocolate experiences hosted at 2020 Gourmet Traveller Wine Cellar Door Award winners Arlewood Estate and Passel Estate. Nature lovers will also appreciate exploring Passel Estate's conservation sanctuary, an initiative to help increase populations of threatened local fauna including the Western Ringtail Possum. The best thing about a winery tour with a small operator is that the winemaker is often the host. For a seriously authentic experience, Brown Hill Estate
gets into the finer details of their viticulture program for those interested in dirt, vines, pruning techniques and more. Winemaking 101 at Cape Grace is an interactive way to learn about the process from grape to bottle, while at Evoi, their winemaker-hosted experiences can include the rare museum wine tastings or even a vertical of historic vintages. For a relaxed and authentic tasting experience, stop at the rustic and friendly cellar doors of FireTail / Roje Estates, Driftwood Estate and Peacetree Estate. Mongrel Creek Wines, Beckett's Flat and Carpe Diem Wines are wonderful pint-sized operations with superb, lesser-known wines to be uncovered.
MARGARET RIVER
Passel Estate
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THE NEW WINE MOVEMENT Specialists of Lo-Fi, Organic and Experimental Styles Low intervention. Minimal addition. Minimal sulphur. Organic. Small batch. Alternative varieties. These characteristics reflect current wine movements in Australia and many are making quite a splash in Margaret River. One of the most established makers of certified-organic wines is Stormflower. Their cellar door showcases the wines as the winemakers like to
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enjoy them - seated at a table, in a comfortable chair, in an unhurried style. The aptly-named 'winery door' of certified-organic Rosily Estate offers an 'off the beaten track' experience, while at Churchview Estate, Windance Wines and Settler's Ridge you can uncover many more wonderful wines of organic pedigree.
Blind Corner
Amato Vino
MARGARET RIVER
Window's Estate
Windows Estate's organic vineyard tour is a fantastic opportunity to learn the finer details and philosophies behind these increasingly adopted practices within Margaret River. The next level of environmentally sensitive winemaking is the biodynamic movement. Cullen Wines is a widely-known leader, while youthful estate Blind Corner's hands-on family owner-makers also keep bee hives and a veggie patch. Marri Wood Park is another must, as is Burnside Organic Farm, whose farmstay is great fun for families. Singlevineyard estate House of Cards is also completing its organic certification. Here, you'll often find the winemaker behind the tasting bar. Don't miss a Malaystyle meal at their restaurant, Chow's, which is a popular eatery of the local chefs.
There's also a rise of unexpected varieties or classic styles made in unexpected ways that is sweeping through the region. Goon Tycoons is a side project of awarded Deep Woods Estate winemaker, Julian Langworthy, which allows for 'colouring outside the lines'. Curio wine lovers will also love Marq Wines, where experimental varieties such as Fiano and Gamay are being made. Dormilona, Amato Vino, LS Merchants, Skigh Wines, Flowstone, Mr Barval and LAS Vino all represent this small-batch scene in Margaret River, known for either their minimalintervation winemaking or work with alternative varieties. Some of these makers offer tastings by appointment, others can be sourced at local bottle shops, restaurants and bars.
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Glenarty Road
Barnyard 1978
Arimia Estate
Aravina Estate
WINERY PROVIDORES Artisan Produce & Paddock-to-Plate Experiences with Epic Wines Many cellar doors in Margaret River offer artisan wares and other gourmet treats to collect in your travels. A few wineries take this to the next level by making not just wines, but outstanding gourmet produce too. For the sweet tooth, a Bettenays Wine and Nougat tasting cannot be missed. Add on a brunch experience to learn directly from their ownermaker about crafting these two delectable treats. Coward and Black Vineyards make an irresistible Chocolate Liqueur that is available to taste at Providore, which also offers an array of local olive oils, dukkahs and condiments to taste and take away. McHenry Hohnen is a biodynamic producer making not just terroir-driven, single-vineyard wines, but very tasty smoked and cured meats, all from freerange, grass-fed livestock. These meats are soughtafter for feasts by the locals (especially winemakers). Stock up for a relaxed dinner if staying by the coast.
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The most authentic paddock-to-plate winery lunch experiences can be found at Arimia and Glenarty Road. Arimia exists entirely off the grid and its acclaimed tasting menu features estate-grown pork, trout, eggs, olives, olive oil, grapes, honey, marron, fruit and vegetables with a minimal-waste policy. Glenarty Road, in the south of the Margaret River wine region farms lamb alongside its steely-cool white wines. Their progressive farm walk and tasting tours are an awesome hands-on experience, while the grazing boards and popular 'farm feasts' showcase a fantastic seasonal spread of housemade meats, cheeses, garden pickles, preserves and their famous fresh-baked sourdough bread. In the north, Barnyard 1978's concept cellar door also offers honey tastings of various site-specific drops from their property, along with a family-friendly, contemporary restaurant serving delicious house-made pasta for brunch or lunch.
NICHE & MEMORABLE Wine Experiences with an Extra Edge If seeking an extra unique wine journey, Jester's Flat is an equestrian farm and vineyard which offers a range of horseback tours that take you through the vines and the stunning Margaret River landscape. Several of the tours incorporate winery visits, including lunch options from The Berry Farm (an estate famed for its berry-based wines that is especially family-friendly). Always dreamed of being a winemaker? ClairaultStreicker's wine blending experience can help those ambitions become a reality for a day. The interactive class also includes a three-course lunch. Aravina Estate is a great destination for the whole family, with a popular restaurant, play equipment for the kids, and Margaret River's most significant surf history museum with boards from the 1950s, 60s and 70s on show.
MARGARET RIVER
Jester's Flat
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MAJOR TOWNS Dunsborough
Margaret River
Augusta
Located at the top of the cape and a great base for visiting the many wineries in the region's north with easy access to the pristine, calm waters of Meelup and Castle Rock beaches. Stay in a coastal villa and don't miss dinner at Yarri Restaurant or Bunkers Beach House. Climb Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse for epic views.
Central within the region, Margaret River town is a perfect base for any wine travel program. There are lots of restaurants including the famous Settler's Tavern located within walking distance from accommodation. Plus, there are places to stay for all tastes and budgets. Breakfast at the Margaret River Bakery is the perfect way to start the day before browsing clothes shops, art galleries or the Saturday Farmer's Market. Town is a 10 minute drive to 'Surfer's Point' at Prevelly Beach and the 'rivermouth' where Margaret River meets the Indian Ocean.
At the southern end of the region, Australia's most south-western town, Augusta is suited to a quieter stay with an old-school fishing town atmosphere. It features world-class windsurfing, snorkelling and whale watching. Augusta is nearby to Boranup Forest, Jewel Cave and Hamelin Bay or visit Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse.
Busselton A bustling, family-friendly town with a plethora of accommodation options, amenities and activities. Geographe Bay beaches are childfriendly and there are plenty of relaxed waterside dining options nearby the famous Busselton Jetty.
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The town is sheltered by Flinders Bay and overlooks the tranquil Hardy Inlet. Don't miss the excellent fish and chips shop.
MARGARET RIVER
Injidup Natural Spa
Boranup Forest
Ngilgi Cave
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BLACKWOOD VALLEY One of Australia’s newest wine regions with charming country style, Blackwood Valley incorporates four delightful towns; Bridgetown, Balingup, Boyup Brook and Nannup. It is highly picturesque with rolling hills and valleys, towering forests, open gardens and the impressive Blackwood River flowing throughout. Enjoy bush walking, canoeing or fishing along with wonderful wines, local produce and a thriving fine arts scene.
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HERO VARIETIES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay
CLIMATE Continental climate - wet, relatively cool winters and warm, dry summers
BALINGUP DRIVE TIMES Perth - Balingup
2.5 hours
Perth - Bridgetown
NANNUP
Na nnu p Sta te Fo re s t
BOYUP B RO O K
3 hours
B R I D G E TO W N
Bridgetown - Boyup Brook, Balingup 20 minutes Bridgetown - Nannup
35 minutes
Neighbouring Wine Regions Geographe, Southern Forests
SOUTHERN OCEAN North to South: 75km West to East: 120km 15 Wineries (5 Cellar Doors) blackwoodvalleywine.com.au BLACKWOOD VALLEY WINE REGION Kaniyang Country
The stunning vistas of Whimwood Estate in Nannup.
HARVEST February to late April
SOILS Well-drained gravelly loams 41
Sunnyhurst Winery
BRIDGETOWN
For Heritage-Listed Beauty
S TAY
NATURE
FOOD
CULTURE
Book a B&B for a relaxed local experience, or the kids will love a farm stay
Canoe or fish in the river, hike or ride on tracks Bibbulman & Munda Biddi
Eat a hearty pub dinner, tea-house cakes and the classic bakery pies
Check out timber crafts, artisan wares, sculptures and music festivals
Cambray Sheep Cheese
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Bridgetown is the oldest town in the South-West and is heritage listed for its architecture. Hampton Street is gorgeous with craft shops, cafes and galleries. Start your wine journey with a stroll through beautiful gardens of Marie Pierre’s family-friendly Sunnyhurst Winery which includes 600 heritage roses. Discover the emerging minimal intervention winemaking scene with an appointment at Shedley Wines or Bridgetown Wines. The famous bakery is perfect for breakfast or lunch, while The Bridgetown Hotel is a must for some classic Australian pub food.
Balingup Town
BOYUP BROOK
NANNUP
BALINGUP
Boyup Brook is known for its small owner-operated wineries. Make an appointment and be rewarded with an intimate wine tasting with the winemaker or owner. Beulah Wines has spectacular views for a private tasting, and also grows delicious native berries. Boyup Brook is known as the country music capital of WA and has an array of fascinating sculptures and murals around the town to discover. Every year, the town plays host to an iconic country music festival, which attracts thousands of campers to enjoy music under the stars. There’s also a great rodeo scene.
A characterful timber town with endless walking, cycling and canoeing trails like Munda Biddi and the Bibbulmun Track. Barrabup Pool and Kondil Park have wonderful wildflowers in spring. The annual Nannup Music Festival in March is also a popular time to visit. Stop by Whimwood Estate to taste wine with owners Steve and Maree or absorb the views over a grazing platter. Visit A Taste of Nannup and Beyond, a concept store exhibiting local art and wares or take a bottle of local wine to Cambray Sheep Cheese and enjoy another platter, because why not!
Surrounded by forests, farmland and orchards, Balingup is known for its local arts, crafts and classic country charm. When it comes to wine, Balingup Fruit Winery, a packing shed cellar door on Balingup’s main street, makes ports and liqueurs with fruit from local orchards for a rare treat. An appointment at Hillbillé is great to discover single-vineyard, regional wines. A niche and surely memorable experience is Balingup’s annual Medieval Carnivale in August. It kicks off with ‘The Feast’, an outrageously gluttonous costumed dinner with acrobats, musicians and more.
Classic Country Charm
Wine, Cheese & Hikes
Orchards & Fruit Wine
BLACKWOOD VALLEY
Whimwood Estate
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SOUTHERN FORESTS One of Australia’s premier cool-climate regions, incorporating Pemberton and Manjimup. The artisanal Pinot Noir and sparkling wines are in hot demand and are often only accessible direct from the wineries, making a visit ultra-rewarding. The pristine environment of dense 300-year-old Karri-tree forest is contrasted against manicured farms, growing more than 50 produce varieties, including world-regarded truffles. A truly mesmerising destination.
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HERO VARIETIES Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sparkling wines
CLIMATE Continental with a gentle maritime influence (Southern and Indian Oceans)
DRIVE TIMES Perth - Manjimup
3 hours
Perth - Pemberton
3.5 hours
Manjimump - Pemberton
M A N JI M U P TO W N
Do nne lly Sta te Fo re s t
50km
20 minutes
Neighbouring Wine Regions Geographe, Great Southern
P E M B E R TO N TO W N
MANJIMUP WINE REGION
PEMBERTON WINE REGION
North to South: 90km Region West to East: 100km 10 Wineries (7 Cellar Doors) southernforestswine.com SOUTHERN FORESTS Kaniyang Country
Picardy’s beautiful grounds are reminiscent of a French chateau.
HARVEST Early March to late April
SOILS Lateritic gravelly sands / loams over clay and fertile red soils. 108-345m altitude
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S TAY
NATURE
FOOD
CULTURE
There’s diverse options (tent, B&B, hotel), but a serene forest chalet is best
Hike or canoe through old growth forests or climb a 75 metre Karri tree
Eat all the local produce you can: truffles, marron, trout, cherries, avocado...
Stroll the monthly farmer's markets or attend annual events for truffle & cherry harvests
Pemberton's Abundant Forest
Treehouse Tapas & Wine Bar
Pemberley
PEMBERTON For Wines as Majestic as its Old-Growth Forests A small wine region with a big reputation, especially for Pinot Noir. Pre-booking wine tastings is recommended (and worthwhile) as you'll often be tasting with the winemaker. Lost Lake Wine’s express wine appreciation tour with winemaker Ash is a fun way to start your journey (kids will love their farm animals). Pemberley's Wine Experience also showcases delicious seasonal fare from their veggie 46
patch. Stop at 10 Chains for a casual tasting or linger over Hidden River Estate's local paddock to plate menu for a long lunch. Serious winos can’t miss Picardy, winery of WA legend Bill Pannell (founder of Margaret River icon Moss Wood). By night, head to Jasper’s Whisky Bar or Treehouse Tapas & Wine Bar for other local drops. Pemberton buzzes with the harvest and new festival, Pinot Picnic in February.
MANJIMUP Western Australia’s Gourmet Food Bowl A mecca of gourmet food production with a thriving fruit and vegetable industry including avocados, cherries, kiwi fruit, apples and world-famous truffles. Truffle hunts are a once-in-a-lifetime experience and The Truffle & Wine Co combines the best of both delicacies, complete with authentic dining. Mountford Wines has released Australia’s first Truffle
Wine, perfect to taste before perusing their gallery featuring local artists. Don’t miss the precious cuvées of Woodgate Wines where winemaker Mark is often at the tasting bar. Manjimup hosts two large harvest festivals each year featuring loads of drawcard events. These are Truffle Kerfuffle (June) and Cherry Harmony Festival (December).
SOUTHERN FORESTS
Lost Lake Wines
Hidden River Estate
Join a Truffle Hunt in June
A stunning region where 300-year-old Karri-trees are contrasted against manicured farms and vineyards growing more than 50 produce varieties.
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GREAT SOUTHERN The Great Southern lies along Western Australia's rugged southern coastline and north to the ancient Stirling and Porongurup Ranges. The wild Southern Ocean has a major influence on the region's esteemed cool climate wines, which are celebrated both near and far. The towns are steeped in history, with the five distinct sub-regions of Albany, Denmark, Frankland River, Mount Barker and Porongurup offering unique, fine wine experiences.
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HERO VARIETIES Riesling, Shiraz, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon
CLIMATE Elevation / site vary, Continental influence overtakes maritime in north
DRIVE TIMES
FRANKLAND RIVER
Perth - Denmark
4 hours
Albany - Frankland River
1.5 hours
Albany - Porongurup or Denmark
45 minutes
Denmark - Mount Barker
45 minutes
Neighbouring Wine Regions Southern Forests, Blackwood Valley
S TI R L I N G RANGES MOUNT BARKER
DENMARK
St irling Ra nge Na t io n a l Pa rk
PORONGURUP
ALBANY
D E N M A R K TO W N SOUTHERN OCEAN
A LB A N Y TO W N
North to South: 100km Region West to East: 200km 52 Wineries (39 Cellar Doors) greatsouthernwine.org.au GREAT SOUTHERN WINE REGION Menang Country
Castle Rock Estate vineyard looking out to the Stirling Ranges, the tallest and coldest part of Western Australia.
HARVEST Early March to late April
SOILS Moderate fertile brown to grey-brown sandy loams, 0-1,083m altitude
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The Gap
Liberté
Albany Town
Oranje Tractor
ALBANY The Bustling Base for a Great Southern Stay Albany is the oldest European settlement in Western Australia and is the major centre of the Great Southern, 4.5 hours drive or a 1 hour flight from Perth. It’s an ideal base from which to take day trips throughout the entire Great Southern region with a wide variety of accommodation, dining options and experiences in town that will suit all tastes. The Albany wine sub-region is a small subset of the Great Southern with mostly family-operated vineyards located within a short drive from town. Start your wine experience with a tasting at the charming cellar door of Wignalls Wines, built from a hay shed and vineyard stones. Oranje Tractor is an organic, ‘off the grid’ winery offering an array of bookable interactive winemaking and dining experiences including farm-grown tasting flights and the unique opportunity to disgorge your own sparkling wine. You can also stay longer term as a farm volunteer. While in Albany town, get to the famous Boatshed Markets on Sunday to taste local farmer’s produce and fresh seafood (you can often find wines from small makers who don’t have a cellar door). Dinner at Liberté or the award-winning fish and chips at Ocean and Paddock is essential, while spirits connoisseurs will love Limeburners cellar door for their world-class whisky. After strolling through Albany’s colonial architecture and journey to the coast to see The Gap and Natural Bridge; two mind-blowing natural wonders on the rugged south coast.
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S TAY
NATURE
Endless options with major hotels, holiday rentals, camping and more
Marvel at the Stirling Ranges, hike Bald Head or whale watch May - October
FOOD
CULTURE
Feast on fish and Stroll museums, chips, Albany or Taste Great Oysters, or the Southern brings diverse dining the region to life scene in town in March
GREAT SOUTHERN
Plantagenet
MOUNT BARKER Great Southern Origins & Paddock to Plate Grazing An attractive, old-style town easily located on three major tourist routes, Mount Barker is home of the first grapevine plantings in the Great Southern at Forest Hill Vineyard in 1965. The success of this paved the way for other early wineries, for instance, Plantagenet whose mudbrick and timber cellar door is a lovely place to taste exemplary regional wines. The friendly tasting room of family-run Galafrey Wines is another. Popular West Cape Howe winery has beautifully manicured lawns and welcomes children and dogs. Grab a pizza during your visit there, or at Arcadia Wines. Gilberts Wines' chocolate and wine flight is as irresistible as their paddock to plate platters, or those of Poacher's Ridge, so ensure eating is high on your agenda when in Mount Barker.
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DENMARK Majestic Hills Dotted with a Patchwork of Wineries A relaxed 'village' town, where towering tall trees and luscious forests meet the ocean for incredible coastal scenery. Denmark stands on the spectacular Wilson Inlet and boasts glorious swimming, surfing and fishing beaches. It is a picturesque place to stay and explore the Great Southern with a variety of accommodation options available. Denmark is made for lazy days and long lunches with many fantastic winery restaurants to select from, including stunning Castelli Estate's Italian restaurant, regional hero Forest Hill's 'Pepper & Salt' for local produce like Wagin Duck and Marron, or the stunning Lake House Wines for a delectable platter. For simpler fare, Willoughby Park Wine is a family-friendly and central option serving pub-style food, day to night. A vertical tasting at Silverstream is both educational and delicious, while a seated tasting at Singlefile Wines is a must for its esteemed drops and sensational views. The humble cellar door at Harewood Estate is the best way to discover the difference between wine styles throughout the Great Southern's sub-regions without having to travel, particularly by tasting the Rieslings they make to celebrate the varying terroir. Stock up on the house-made cheeses from Ducketts Mill Wines to bring back to your chalet. Alternatively, stock up on some artisan honey. Be mesmerised by nature at Elephant Rocks and the Valley of the Giants which are two unmissable natural attractions. The award-winning pies at Denmark Bakery are the only way to start any day-trip or travel day.
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Elephant Rocks
GREAT SOUTHERN
Singlefile Wines
Forest Hill Vineyard
S TAY
NATURE
Diverse options from an inspiring hillside chalet to a beachside villa or caravan
Elephant Rocks and the Valley of the Giants cannot be missed
FOOD
CULTURE
Enjoy a winery long lunch, bakery pie or gourmet snacks come evening
Wineries often host music and food events with touring national talent 53
FRANKLAND RIVER Relaxed Tranquility & Highly-Acclaimed Wines Frankland River grows internationally-acclaimed Shiraz and Riesling. Its lauded wineries include Alkoomi Wines, Ferngrove Estate and Frankland Estate, whose authentic cellar doors are available to visit most days (bookings recommended). Hosted by the winemaker, a tour of organic winery Frankland Estate is a treat. Swinney and Lange Estate wines
are worth hunting down too. The river itself is the longest in the Great Southern, flowing 400 kilometres to Walpole. Absorb the tranquil farmland and native forest surrounds by birdwatching, fishing or canoeing. Frankland River is a perfect day trip from Denmark or Pemberton, or pack some gourmet snacks and retreat overnight in a vineyard chalet at Alkoomi Wines.
Frankland Estate
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PORONGURUP
TRAILS & TIPS
Unearth Emerging Wineries & Epic Views
Granite Skywalk, Castle Rock
GREAT SOUTHERN
The Porongurup Range rises 670 metres with luxuriant Karri forest and breathtaking views of the Stirling Ranges. Its cool hillside slopes lend themselves to Riesling, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and a day exploring the humble cellar doors will reward visitors with exceptional value wines. Castle Rock Estate, Ironwood Estate and Abbey Creek Estate are cellar doors that welcome drop-in guests for wine tastings. Others can be booked. On weekends, book for a vineyard platter, local Dorper Lamb or Smoked Trout from the country kitchen of Rosie at Zarephath Wines. Don’t miss the wildflowers in spring.
Zarephath Wines
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DRIVE TIMES IN HOURS & KILOMETRES Perth
Swan Valley
Bickley Valley Chittering Valley Mandurah
Bunbury
Busselton
Margaret River Balingup
Bridgetown
Manjimup
Pemberton
Denmark
Albany
Perth
-
30 min 29 km
30 min 26 km
50 min 64 km
1 hr 72 km
2 hrs 170 km
2 hrs 30 min 223 km
3 hrs 275 km
2 hrs 35 min 229 km
2 hrs 50 min 253 km
3 hrs 30 min 293 km
3 hrs 40 min 253 km
4 hrs 40 min 420 km
4 hrs 30 min 413 km
Swan Valley
30 min 29 km
-
35 min 26 km
35 min 45 km
1hr 10min 94 km
2hrs 10 min 190 km
2hrs 45 min 245 km
3hrs 20 min 295 km
2hrs 50 min 250 km
3 hrs 10 min 280 km
3 hrs 40 min 315 km
4 hrs 345 km
4 hrs 40 min 425 km
4 hrs 45 min 420 km
Bickley Valley
30 min 26 km
35 min 26 km
-
55 min 79 km
1 hr 83 km
2 hrs 180 km
2 hrs 30 min 233 km
3 hrs 10 min 285 km
2 hrs 45 min 240 km
3 hrs 267 km
3 hrs 30 min 304 km
3 hrs 50 min 335 km
4 hrs 20 min 403 km
4 hrs 25 min 400 km
Chittering Valley
50 min 64 km
35 min 45 km
55 min 79 km
-
1 hr 30 min 138 km
2 hrs 30 min 235 km
3 hrs 290 km
3 hrs 40 min 340 km
3 hrs 15 min 295 km
3 hrs 30 min 325 km
4 hrs 360 km
4 hrs 20 min 390 km
5 hrs 470 km
5 hrs 465 km
Mandurah
1 hr 72 km
1hr 10 min 94 km
1 hr 83 km
1 hr 30 min 138 km
-
1 hr 15 min 105 km
1 hr 50 min 156 km
2 hrs 20 min 208 km
2 hrs 165 km
2 hrs 15 min 190 km
2 hrs 40 min 230 km
3 hrs 258 km
4 hrs 20 min 396 km
4 hrs 25 min 392 km
Bunbury
2 hrs 170 km
2hrs 10 min 190 km
2 hrs 180 km
2 hrs 30 min 235 km
1 hr 15 min 105 km
-
45 min 53 km
1 hr 20 min 111 km
1 hr 68 km
1 hr 15 min 95 km
1 hr 40 min 132 km
2 hrs 163 km
3 hrs 40 min 323 km
3 hrs 50 min 339 km
Busselton
2.5 hrs 223 km
2hrs 45 min 245 km
2 hrs 40 min 233 km
3 hrs 290 km
1 hr 50 min 156 km
45 min 53 km
-
45 min 54 km
1 hr 80 km
1 hr 15 min 107 km
1 hr 25 min 119 km
1 hr 35 min 144 km
3 hrs 20 min 310 km
3 hrs 40 min 330 km
Margaret River
3 hrs 275 km
3hrs 20 min 295 km
3 hrs 10 min 285 km
3 hrs 40 min 340 km
2 hrs 20 min 208 km
1 hr 20 min 111 km
45 min 54 km
-
1 hr 20 min 117 km
1 hr 25 min 116 km
1 hr 30 min 130 km
1 hr 30 min 133 km
3 hrs 30 min 320 km
3 hrs 50 min 340 km
Balingup
2 hrs 35 min 229 km
2hrs 50 min 250 km
2 hrs 45 min 240 km
3 hrs 15 min 295 km
2 hrs 165 km
1 hr 68 km
1 hr 80 km
1 hr 20 min 117 km
-
20 min 27 km
45 min 63 km
1 hr 10 min 93 km
2 hrs 45 min 255 km
3 hrs 275 km
Bridgetown
2 hrs 50 min 253 km
3 hrs 10 min 280 km
3 hrs 267 km
3 hrs 30 min 325 km
2 hrs 15 min 190 km
1 hr 15 min 95 km
1 hr 15 min 107 km
1 hr 25 min 116 km
20 min 27 km
-
25 min 37 km
50 min 67 km
2 hrs 25 min 228 km
2 hrs 45 min 248 km
Manjimup
3 hrs 30 min 293 km
3 hrs 40 min 315 km
3 hrs 30 min 304 km
4 hrs 360 km
2 hrs 40 min 230 km
1 hr 40 min 132 km
1 hr 25 min 119 km
1 hr 30 min 130 km
45 min 63 km
25 min 37 km
-
20 min 30 km
2 hrs 191 km
2 hrs 15 min 211 km
Pemberton
3 hrs 40min 253 km
4 hrs 345 km
3 hrs 50 min 335 km
4 hrs 20 min 390 km
3 hrs 258 km
2 hrs 163 km
1 hr 35 min 144 km
1 hr 30 min 133 km
1 hr 10 min 93 km
50 min 67 km
20 min 30 km
-
2 hrs 185 km
2 hrs 35 min 230 km
Denmark
4 hrs 40 min 420 km
4 hrs 40 min 425 km
4 hrs 20 min 403 km
5 hrs 470 km
4 hrs 20 min 396 km
3 hrs 40 min 323 km
3 hrs 20 min 310 km
3 hrs 30 min 320 km
2 hrs 45 min 255 km
2 hrs 25 min 228 km
2 hrs 191 km
2 hrs 185 km
-
40 min 55 km
Albany
4 hrs 30 min 413 km
4 hrs 45 min 420 km
4 hrs 25 min 400 km
5 hrs 465 km
4 hrs 25 min 392 km
3 hrs 50 min 339 km
3 hrs 40 min 330 km
3 hrs 50 min 340 km
3 hrs 275 km
2 hrs 45 min 248 km
2 hrs 15 min 211 km
2 hrs 35 min 230 km
40 min 55 km
-
SWAN VALLEY YANCHEP
TIP
CHITTERING VALLEY
SWAN VALLEY
Take a break from driving every 2 hours to stay alert and avoid driving at dawn and dusk when wildlife is more active on roads.
YORK
PERTH BICKLEY VALLEY
PERTH HILLS JARRAHDALE
MANDURAH
PEEL
HARVEY
GEOGRAPHE
BUNBURY
FERGUSON VALLEY CAPEL KATANNING
DONNYBROOK
YALLINGUP BUSSELTON
BALINGUP KOJONUP MARGARET RIVER
NANNUP
BOYUP BROOK BRIDGETOWN
MARGARET RIVER
FRANKLAND RIVER
MANJIMUP AUGUSTA PEMBERTON
BLACKWOOD VALLEY SOUTHERN FORESTS
PORONGURUP MOUNT BARKER WALPOLE
DENMARK ALBANY
GREAT SOUTHERN
THE WINE ADVENTURER SWAN VALLEY • PERTH HILLS • PEEL • GEOGRAPHE • MARGARET RIVER BLACKWOOD VALLEY • SOUTHERN FORESTS • GREAT SOUTHERN
Produced for Wines of Western Australia by Scoop Digital. Editorial and Art Direction: Emily Sharland. Photography: Frances Andrijich and Russell Ord.