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Western Australia Wineries
3drops
http://www.3drops.com/
3drops began with a family farm and a vision - a vision to produce premium wines and olive oil, whilst maintaining the environmental integrity of the land for generations to come. Southwest of Mount Barker in the heart of the acclaimed Great Southern wine region of Western Australia, vines and olive trees flourish side by side in the cool, pristine climate.
Distinctly boutique and contemporary Australian, 3drops reflects a commitment to uncompromising quality and innovation.
Amberley Estate
http://www.amberleyestate.com.au/
Amberley Estate was founded in 1985 with the first vintage release occurring in 1990.
The site for Amberley was chosen after an exhaustive search within the region for a property containing all of the critical ingredients of: sheltered eastern facing slopes, deep free draining gravely loam soils, good water supply. The natural beauty of the estate is a bonus.
Their founding mission was that of producing great wine using the best possible methods. They have now moved one step further from this to an ambitious long term brand mission:
"To be the leader in crafting high quality wines from unique varieties, not commonly found in the Margaret River region".
Arlewood Estate
http://www.arlewood.com.au/
Arlewood Estate was established in 1988, the original Estate was situated in the Wilyabrup sub region. The winery and business is now operated from Witchcliffe, triggered by a desire to make white wines from a cooler vineyard site. Reds are still sourced from Wilyabrup. A new wine is the La Bratta, a blend of Merlot, Cabernet and Malbec. Consistent premium producer.
Ashbrook Estate
http://www.ashbrookwines.com.au/
Ashbrook is one of the older vineyards in Margaret River and uses only estate grown fruit. Much of its attention and resources are focussed on the vineyard to produce the highest quality fruit. The aim with the wines is to make dry white and red table wines that exemplify varietal integrity and display the best that the Margaret River as a region can offer. Excellent whites and stylish reds.
Barwick Estates
http://www.barwickwines.com/
Barwick Estates was initially focussed in the Blackwood Valley. Further expansion south of Pemberton and in Margaret River saw the eventual move to Margaret River.
The spread of vineyards has enabled Barwick to grow a number of varieties that suit both the climate and the soil type, resulting in an interesting range of wines. The wine quality and consistency has come a long way.
Both Barrels
http://bothbarrelswine.com/
The approach behind the Both Barrels wines is pretty simple – made by Brian Fletcher who states - “My winemaking philosophy has always been simple – work in quality regions with well managed vineyards that produce rich ripe and fully developed fruit flavours...then give it “both barrels” in the winery.”
Brookland Valley
http://www.brooklandvalley.com.au/
This outstanding producer is part of the Constellation Wines group and is one of the showpiece vineyards of the district, sourcing fruit only from its own vineyards and other growers within Margaret River.
Viticulture in the estate vineyard has focused on lower yields. Fruit is hand-picked in small batches with the aim of producing the best possible expression of the site and region.
Brown Hill Estate
http://www.brownhillestate.com.au/
This small family-run southern Margaret River producer has gone from strength to strength with a range of exceptional quality and value-for-money wines. The vines are all dry-grown and on quite harsh gravelly soils, resulting in small yields. The reds are put into a high percentage of new American and French oak while the whites are left unoaked at this stage. Great value and super wines.
Capel Vale
http://www.capelvale.com/
Capel Vale is a pioneer within Western Australia and amongst the first to be established with vines planted in 1974. The initial winery was built on the Stirling Estate in Capel in 1979 followed shortly thereafter with the first vintage in 1980. Peter Pratten was the first to identify viticultural potential in the cool climate regions of W.A. - Margaret River, Pemberton, Mount Barker, and Geographe. As a result, Capel Vale now produces wines of definitive regional flavour and varietal expression with a focus on balance, complexity and elegant fruit flavours. In 1986, Peter Pratten as winemaker produced a Capel Vale Riesling which was named ‘Australian National Dry White Champion’. An historic moment in the history of not only Capel Vale but also Riesling in Australia.
Today Capel Vale is still family owned and managed. From July 2007, Simon Pratten took over as Chief Executive Officer from Peter and Elizabeth Pratten, however both are still heavily involved in the business.
Capel Vale is a fully integrated wine business from vineyard to bottle. It operates one of the most highly certified contract bottling plants in the country.
Celestial Bay
http://www.celestialbay.com.au/
Celestial Bay is the result of Michael and Kim O'Brien's long standing passion for wine which led them to Margaret River. The property was bought in 1998 and the first vines planted in 1999. All fruit was initially sold to local producers until 2003. Developing a flagship red blend based on Cabernet Sauvignon, a top quality Chardonnay and an SSB to age.
Chatsfield
http://www.chatsfield.com.au/
Established in 1976 Chatsfield a pioneer of the Great Southern wine region takes its name from a cheeky little vineyard dwelling bird the Chat. With new owners since 2007 this family vineyard is continuing the tradition of making excellent wines which reflect the regional style.
The vineyard is 10 kms south-east of the town of Mount Barker in the western shadows of the ancient and beautiful Porongurup Ranges. The gently undulating topography, gravel loam soils and continental climate combine to create excellent conditions for Chatsfield’s vines.
Starting with plantings of Riesling and Gewürztraminer in 1976, the vineyard has expanded over 34 years to include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz and Cabernet Franc. Classic cool climate mature vines and rich flavours.
Churchview Estate
http://www.churchview.com.au/
Margaret River in Western Australia is one of the world’s truly great wine regions, and Churchview Estate is one of the leading Premium producers in the region.
Be it our intense Chardonnays, aromatic Sauvignon Blancs, robust Cabernets or soft Merlots, Churchview Estate wines have a reputation for distinguished character and quality.
The happy association of a favourable maritime climate, excellent soils, clean air and pristine water combine with the highly skilled and passionate owners to consistently produce varietals and blends of stunning appeal. Enjoy the fruit of our labours!
Clairault
http://www.clairaultwines.com.au/
Now owned by the Martin family a new era has begun. Bill and Ena along with their three sons Shane, Conor and Brian bought the property in 1999 because of its vast viticultural and tourism potential.
They immediately set about turning the winery into a no compromise operation, making substantial changes and investments to improve the property and operation of the business.
Will Shields joined Clairault as Chief Winemaker from Vasse Felix in 2003. Will's sole focus is the Clairault Estate and Clairault ranges, dedicated to producing exceptional wines through Estate grown grapes to ensure total quality control.
Cowaramup Wines
http://www.cowaramupwines.com.au/
Clown Fish & Cowaramup Wines are located in the heart of the Margaret River wine region between the township of Cowaramup and the Indian Ocean. The vineyard is situated on the gentle slopes of the upper reaches of Ellensbrook. Established in 1996 by the Reynolds family the vineyard has developed to over 42 acres in size offering such varieties as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. Since its inception a strong emphasis has been adopted on implementing Biodynamic and Organic practices in the vineyard.
Clown Fish is the first range of wines produced by Cowaramup Wines. A real family affair with owners Russell and Marilyn over seeing operations, sons Cameron (Viticulturist) and Anthony ( Winemaker ) working together to produce wines of the highest quality that are a true expression of the “terroir” of this location.
Cullen Wines
http://www.cullenwines.com.au/
In the early 1960's detailed climatic studies of various regions in Southwestern Australia revealed that during the winegrowing season, Margaret River's climate was similar to that of Bordeaux, particularly Pomerol.
The conclusion that Margaret River was ideal for viticulture was first tested in Wilyabrup in 1966, when Diana and Kevin Cullen planted a trial acre of vines. The encouraging results led to the couple planting 18 acres of vines on their sheep and cattle farm in 1971. Cullen Wines while remaining family owned has since evolved making quality wine from biodynamically grown grapes sourced exclusively from The Cullen Estate Vineyard and Mangan Vineyard.
Deep Woods Estate
http://www.deepwoods.com.au/
The vineyard was acquired during 2005 by Peter Fogarty, who also owns Millbrook and the famous Lake's Folly. It's situated high on the Yallingup Ridge and is one of the highest vineyards in the region. A comprehensive vineyard redevelopment program has improved fruit quality. Excellent recent releases of both reds and whites. Latest addition is a barrel fermented Sauvignon Blanc.
Driftwood
http://www.driftwoodwines.com.au/
“In recent years the wines of Driftwood have developed a greater degree of consistency and quality, reflecting the growing maturity of the vines. Reds are the strong suite, but whites are starting to gather ground." Ray Jordan’s Guide to West Australian Wine 2010
Spread over 100 acres of undulating rich grape growing country - Driftwood Estate has enjoyed international acclaim for its Shiraz [double winner in 2000] and the Chardonnay.
The ultra modern winery also produces Semillon, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and additional blends of the grape varieties.
Dukes
http://www.dukesvineyard.com/
Set up by Ian Duke and Hilde Ranson primarily to make Riesling and Cabernet. It was the belief in the Porongurups to produce these wines that eventually brought them to their chosen site. In fact the Ransons both believe that the world needs more good Riesling and are doing their bit. The wines are soft and generously fruit driven.
Eagle Vale Estate
http://www.eaglevalewine.com/
This property just a few kilometres south of Margaret River on Caves Road was bought in 1995 by Steve and Wendy Jacobs who subsequently joined forces with Guy and Chantal Gallienne. The wines are some of the most distinctive in Margaret River with styles reflecting the terroir at Eagle Vale. Wines are made with minimal intervention in the vineyard and throughout wine making. James Halliday rated Eagle Vales 2001 Cabernet Merlot 93 points, their 2002 Chardonnay 94 points, Eagle Vale Estate as a 5 Star winery and as one of the 10 best new wineries in Australia.
Edwards Wines
http://www.edwardswines.com.au/
Edwards whites have been the strong suite from the outset, but the quality of the red fruit suggests exciting things ahead.
In 1991 Brian Edwards and his wife Jenny looking to a ‘tree change’, purchased some land in WA's wine region of Margaret River. This piece of land was particularly appealing to Brian because he could get an airstrip along the back boundary.
Two years later in 1993, the first vines were planted at Edwards - a modest 6 acres of Semillon. This vineyard rapidly developed and has now grown to 65 acres. Estate grown grapes now include Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon – all varieties perfectly suited to the conditions in the region.
Evans & Tate
The Perth Royal Wine Show is WA's leading wine competition. Established more than 40 years ago, the competition is credited with putting WA on the map as a producer of quality wines.
This year the competition attracted 2400 entries from WA, interstate and New Zealand. A team of judges led by Dr Tony Jordan of Domaine Chandon Australia assessed wines from almost 400 wineries.
Evans and Tate was the most successful WA exhibitor at the 2008 Perth Royal Wine Show. The group's Margaret River Merlot 2007 Vintage won the best merlot of the Show and its Reserve Shiraz 2005 Vintage was named best WA dry red table wine.
Evoi Wines
http://www.evoiwines.com/
A very small producer making some very interesting and distinctive Chardonnay and Bordeaux blend reds. Owner Nigel Ludlow has been making wine for 15 years globally, moving to Margaret River about six years ago with his Cuban wife and daughter. Ludlow is aiming to make wines of elegance and style.
'Evoi' is Latin for the ecstatic scream of joy from the female followers of Bacchus.
Feet First
http://www.feetfirstwines.com.au/
This brand was created by well known West Australian wine wholesalers
Ross and Ronnie Lawrence in 2003. Fruit is sourced from various wine regions of Western Australia in order to supply wines pitched very much at the younger market.
To complement Feet First Wines a second tier in a more premium style has been released.
Fermoy Estate
Over the years the Fermoy wines have had considerable success, with both Cabernet and the distinctive Semillon, which is usually barrel fermented and generally with a reasonable portion of Sauvignon Blanc. The Cabernets are generally soft and generous styles.The vineyard was established in 1985, and completed its first vintage in 1988. There are now 17 hectares under vine with a total crush of about 200 tonnes.
Ferngrove
http://www.ferngrove.com.au/
Ferngrove has established a reputation as a premium wine producer in the Frankland River region and the winery is fast becoming recognised for its production of outstanding cool climate wines from estate grown fruit. A strong portfolio of brands has also enabled Ferngrove to become established in the key markets of Australia UK/Europe Asia and North America. In its short but highly successful start to premium wine making Ferngrove has been awarded an impressive number of trophies and gold medals.
In 2006 Ferngrove enjoyed its most successful year yet on the Australian wine show circuit amassing an impressive six-trophy and 74 medal haul from 14 shows.
Later that year prominent Australian wine critic James Halliday awarded Ferngrove's winery 5 stars for the third consecutive year. Ferngrove is well on its way to the fulfilment of its ultimate goal to gain international status as one of Australia's great wine producers.
Flametree
http://www.flametreewines.com/
Flametree Wines was catapulted into winemaking folklore after winning Australia’s most prestigious wine award, The Jimmy Watson Trophy, with its first ever red wine the 2007 Cabernet Merlot.
Proving that this wasn’t just good luck the 2008 Cabernet Merlot was again a finalist in this year’s Jimmy Watson trophy taste off.
James Halliday’s 2010 Wine Companion ranked Flametree Wines in his Top 10 New and Exciting wineries, giving great reviews across the complete range.
Recent accolades include winning the trophy at the Margaret River Wine Show for best Sauvignon Blanc Semillon.
Winemaker Cliff Royle and his winemaking team are dedicated to producing the very best premium wines from the Margaret River region.
Flying Fish Cove
http://www.flyingfishcove.com/
We passionately produce premium quality, great value Margaret River wines. The reds particularly Cabernet Merlot and Shiraz have been successful in winning a number of medals and awards more recently with our 2006 Shiraz picking up 2 top golds in this years wine circuit so far. One of these golds being awarded at the 2007 Royal Melbourne Wine Show placing it as a nominee for the most eagerly sought after wine trophy in Australia - the Jimmy Watson Memorial Trophy.
Flying Fish Cove winery is situated 25km north of the Margaret River town site, along Caves Road in the renowed Wilyabrup area. Next door to the winery is the Flying Fish Cove vineyard - a 20 hectare vineyard planted in 1997 by several of our shareholders.
Forest Hill
http://www.foresthillwines.com.au/
Established in 1965 Forest Hill is the oldest cool climate vineyard in Western Australia.
Forest Hill is a family owned boutique winery with an uncompromising approach to quality, creating unique and exciting wines of the highest calibre. Each Forest Hill wine is a true expression of the Great Southern WA, displaying unique regional and varietal character with finesse elegance and definition.
Forester Estate
http://foresterestate.com.au/
Small family-run operation at the northern end of Margaret River. The region's northern area near Yallingup is establishing a regional style with the Cabernets elegant and with fine tannins with good length and strong aromatics. The wines continue to offer a mix of value for money and high quality at the premium end. The Yelverton Reserve is a recent addition to the range.
Fraser Gallop
http://www.frasergallopestate.com.au/
The estate was established by Nigel Gallop to make the best possible Cabernet. All vines are dry grown from planting, (except Semillon) cane pruned, low yielding shoot thinned, leaf plucked, bunch thinned and hand picked. The original plantings had been added to by Malbec and Semillon which are coming online. 2009 Decanter Awards for the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon.
Galafrey
http://www.galafreywines.com.au/
The winery that the late Ian Tyrer began in 1977 is still in good hands with his wife Linda and daughter Kim keeping up the tradition. The dry-grown vineyard has most of the regions traditional varieties. Riesling has been one of the estates best wines and the reds offer excellent value and quality, their soft fleshy character making them immediately appealing.
Greedy Sheep
http://www.greedysheep.com.au/
A new producer starting to make an impact already. The Guiney family have been working the vineyard since 2005. After producing a small amount of Rhone style Shiraz for the 2005 vintage they are now looking to develop a Bordeaux style blend. The Cabernet Merlot is very good and the Sauvignon Blanc Semillon shows great promise. Already had some show success.
Green Valley Vineyard
http://www.greenvalleyvineyard.com.au/
One of the best small vineyards in Margaret River. The vineyard now has the additional oversight of Ian Bell formally of Moss Wood and now Glenmore. Ian's experience and past association with the vineyard is making a great impact and proving an ideal partnership with new owners Graeme Seed and Helen Thomas who are committed to investing in quality improvements.
Hamelin Bay Winery
http://www.hbwines.com.au/
Since first vintage in 1996 Hamelin Bay’s wines have been a standard bearer for vineyards located in the south end of the Margaret River Wine Region near the town of Karridale. The cooler climate in this Southern district is very well suited to making excellent white wines with Hamelin Bay having a strong history of success with Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Semillon Sauvignon Blanc blends.
They also produce very fine reds particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz and the secret here is very low yields to ensure full ripeness in the cooler environment.
The winery is owned by Richard and Roslyn Drake-Brockman who both have historical ties to European settlement in Western Australia in the early 19th century. While Richard’s family is better known for pioneering the Swan River Colony (now Perth) he is also descended, via Great Grandmother Grace Bussell, from the first settlers of the Margaret River Region back in 1831.
Happs and Three Hills
http://www.happs.com.au/
Erl Happ pioneered the cool climes of Karridale near Augusta, south of Margaret River, with an eye for perfect flavor retention in the ripening period. The result is an exciting range of wines.
Not only did he go there with the intention of growing the best of varieties already popular in Australia, but to also experiment with new varieties little known to most wine drinkers.
The finest wines produced from this Three Hills estate come under the Three Hills label and are consistently first rate.
Hay Shed Hill
http://www.hayshedhill.com.au/
Hay Shed Hill is a classic old vineyard in the heart of the Willyabrup Valley – the premier sub region of Margaret River.
Five Star Winery rating - James Halliday Wine Companion 2009
First planted in 1973 to the varieties that have put Margaret River on the wine map, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc, the Hay Shed Hill vineyard has the mission of producing world class wines that reflect the place of their origin. Wines of depth and flavour that are true to region and true to the vineyard.
“This place was planted right. The right varieties on the right slopes with the right soils. And it was planted back in 1973 so we have the advantage of working with truly mature vines…” Michael Kerrigan, winemaker.
With a star-studded career behind him as architect of the classy Howard Park and Madfish brands, Michael Kerrigan has taken on a new challenge at the neighbouring Hay Shed Hill winery. Having spent 13 vintages making the big decisions that triggered unprecedented growth of the Howard Park and Madfish labels, Kerrigan is considered one of the most respected technicians in this super-premium region.
With 30-year-old plantings at his disposal, Kerrigan has understandably set his sights on producing classic “old vine” Margaret River wines. John Fordham – Sunday Telegraph - 23 March 2008
Higher Plane
http://www.higherplanewines.com.au/
Higher Plane is a family owned vineyard which was established in 1996 with the vision to create handcrafted, precise wines, a genuine expression of their origin.
The vineyard is in the pristine southern Forest Grove sub-region of Margaret River where the influence of the Southern Ocean is the greatest. Undulating hills and valleys with north and south facing slopes, and spring fed watercourses create an ideal environment for site-specific planting of the noble grape varieties.
The property has ideal exposure and gravely duplex soils (and adjoins the Devil's Lair vineyard). The varieties planted were carefully selected clones and closely planted to produce low yields and increase fruit intensity, with defined varietal expression. Close planting helps to achieve more even ripening, especially in area with cooler temperatures and less sunlight hours due to cloud cover.
Houghton
http://www.houghton-wines.com.au/
Houghton are proud to produce some of this country's finest wines from exceptional Cabernets to elegant aromatic white wines.
Their portfolio offers a virtual tour of the premium wine regions of Western Australia from Margaret River, Pemberton to the vast Great Southern region.
Since 1836 Houghton has been one of the pioneers of winemaking in Australia.
Howard Park
http://www.howardparkwines.com.au/
Howard Park Wines was established in 1986 and was one of the original pioneers of the Great Southern region. The founding owner of Howard Park, John Wade ventured west to Western Australia’s South West with one belief: “I don’t know any other region where you can produce both Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon as premium wines”. This founding belief began the journey of Howard Park.
Now over 20 years on, Howard Park remains a family owned winery under the guidance of Jeff and Amy Burch. With a philosophy to produce wines of distinct regional character with an uncompromising commitment to quality Howard Park has forged an international reputation for their wines and an expanded range including single vineyard and multi regional wines from Margaret River and the Great Southern.
Taking a look at the history that is Howard Park’s provides an insight into the pioneering spirit of a leading Western Australia family winery.
Juniper Estate
http://www.juniperestate.com.au/
Juniper Estate is one of the original Margaret River vineyards nestled in the picturesque Wilyabrup valley. The Juniper family originally owned the land where Juniper Estate is now hence the name. Established in 1973, when there were only five producers in the region, it is one of the pioneer vineyards and is dry-grown to this day.
Two ranges of wines are produced – Estate wines from Juniper’s own vines, and Crossing wines, where fruit is used from a couple of local growers to supplement their own production.
It’s pretty much a hands on operation – the vines are hand pruned and hand picked and the wine hand made. The fruits are processed in small batches and treated separately, evaluated and blended in the barrel hall – a truly boutique operation. The wines are consistently of the highest order with Shiraz and Semillon in particular outstanding.
The Juniper Crossing range is great value.
Kalgan River
http://www.kalganriverwines.com.au/
The vineyard was planted in year 2000 and is located 38kms east of Albany in the Great Southern wine growing region. At present growing the varieties of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Chardonnay and Viognier. John & Di Ciprian are the owners of the vineyard and it is tendered full time by vineyard manager, Cliff McAleese and his son Corey.
Their wines have to date been well received by the wine consumer and also in wine shows. Excepting the yet to be released Sparkling Shiraz, every variety has won medals and some have won trophies.
KarriBindi
http://www.karribindi.com.au/
This is a family owned and operated vineyard at Karridale. Kevin and Yvonne established the vineyard in 1996 which started as 10 acres and has grown to nearly 100 acres in 2008. Grapes benefit from slightly cooler weather than the growing areas to the north and also from the breezes blowing in from both the Indian and Southern Oceans. Early success came with a trophy for the Semillon Sauvignon Blanc at Qantas Wine Show.
Kerfuffle
http://www.kerfufflewines.com.au/
Ben and Kymberly McDonald have dedicated Kerfuffle, located at Karridale, to environmental awareness.
They have adopted an integrated pest management strategy that lowers the environmental impact of chemical pesticides on groundwater contamination.
The name Kerfuffle was chosen because the McDonalds want to do things a little differently and cause a 'kerfuffle' in Margaret River.
The Shiraz and Cabernet Merlot are sealed in wax and the labels incorporate Braille text .
Larry Cherubino
http://www.larrycherubino.com.au/
Larry Cherubino is one of Australia’s best winemakers, with accolades nationally and globally. A few years ago he started his own range of wines based on WA vineyards, under the Ad Hoc, The Yard and Cherubino labels. Larry also operates a winemaking consulting business in Australia, New Zealand and the USA. The Ad Hoc range reflects classic regional and varietal pairings, the Yard sources from family vineyards and the Cherubino aims at best of variety. Outstanding across the board.
Laurance
http://www.laurancewines.com.au/
This new producer on Caves Road has made quite a statement since arriving on the scene a few years ago, from the outset choosing to do things differently — from wine styles to packaging to the label names. Since its opening in September 2006 Laurance Cellar has become one of the region’s most popular with spectacular rose garden and Australian sculptures. Voted one of Australia’s best 10 cellar doors. Gold medal at Decanter awards of '07 Cabernet points to a strong future.
Leaping Lizard
http://www.leapinglizard.com.au/
Started as a brand to deliver fresh, fun and flavoursome wines sourced from a number of different vineyards and regions.
Since then it has been acquired by Ferngrove Vineyards and is producing a very good line-up of wines under the Reserve and West Australian ranges. The wines are sourced from Margaret River and other premium winegrowing areas in and around the State.
The wines are made at Ferngrove by Vanessa Carson.
Lenton Brae
http://www.lentonbrae.com/
Bruce and Jeanette Tomlinson established Lenton Brae Estate in 1982. The site of the vineyard was chosen after a chance conversation with Bill Pannell. Bill was the owner of Moss Wood winery and producing wines that were renowned throughout Australia and overseas. Bill had engaged Bruce to assist with the shire of Busselton's planning requirements for dividing the Moss Wood property During a casual chat between the two men, Bill mentioned that the soils of one of the newly created properties were uniformly excellent and equal to those of the existing Moss Wood vineyard. Impressed by this information Bruce decided to purchase the property and try his hand at viticulture. The name Lenton Brae comes from the chapel district of Lenton in Nottingham, England. It is from here that the first Tomlinson's migrated to Australia in 1882. Brae is a Scottish term for a small hill, which is what the Wilyabrup vineyard is situated on.
The winery was built in 1988 and the first vintage in the new building was in 1989. Bruce designed and built the winery, which incorporates the cellar sales gallery that has sweeping views across the Wilyabrup valley. The building has since been heritage listed by the shire of Busselton.
McHenry Hohnen Vintners
http://www.mchv.com.au/
McHenry Hohnen Vintners is a family owned wine producer sourcing grapes from four vineyards owned within the families of David Hohnen and his brother-in-law Murray McHenry.
Winemaking is handled by David, his daughter Freya and her partner, Ryan Walsh. The McH philosophy embraces minimal intervention winemaking, where each wine is a focussed expression of its variety, its growing season and its individual site.
Within the four vineyards, eighteen varieties are cultivated. These reflect the region's heritage with the Bordeaux varieties Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot.
Mongrel Creek
This is a small family owned and operated vineyard situated on the outskirts of Dunsborough in the Margaret River wine region. The primary focus is on producing quality wine at an affordable price. It was the tranquil creek that first attracted Larry and Shirley Schoppe to the property but for three years running the only access to their home was washed away by the ravaging winter waters – anything but tranquil. A lone blackboy growing in the middle of the creek is all that was left standing. It still stands, the waters still ravage but they believe they have finally defeated the Mongrel Creek.
Montgomery's Hill
http://www.montgomeryshill.com.au/
Montgomery's Hill is situated on the edge of a plateau, on gently inclined slopes that run down to the Kalgan River. The base rocks are augen gneiss covered with rich red brown loams overlying sandy clay loams interspersed with ironstone, a soil profile considered ideal for viticulture.
The Montgomery name is well known in the south-west of Western Australia where the family has farmed for three generations.
Brothers Murray and Iain Montgomery grew up on the Kalgan property. Both have always had a passion for good wine, which led them, with their wives, to develop the Kalgan property and rammed earth cellar door facility.
Moombaki Wines
http://moombaki.com/
This is a small family run business focused on sustainable farming practice, starting to make quite a name for itself especially for its Cabernets and Shiraz. Decisions are based on their ecological value with high quality control measures designed to ensure long term quality of the fruit and the land.
Mount Trio
http://www.mounttriowines.com.au/
Gavin Berry established Mount Trio seeking to produce good drinkable value for money wines with a distinct regional and varietal expression. The vineyard is situated on the north facing lower slopes of the Porongurup Range and is ideally placed to produce full ripe fruit to fit his recipe for flavour and balance. An encouraging Tempranillo from Geographe has also been introduced.
Palmer Wines
http://www.palmerwines.net.au/
Established by Stephen and Helen Palmer in 1977 as one of the pioneer vineyards in the Margaret River region, the initial planting on the banks of the fertile Wilyabrup River included Chardonnay Semillon Sauvignon Blanc and a small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
Hard work and creative winemaking soon paid dividends, and Palmer Wines collected many awards, building an enviable reputation.
Over the years further vines have been established within the heart of the Margaret River wine country producing a wide range of spectacular wines.
Parish Lane
http://www.parishlanewines.com.au/
Parish Lane wines is a small vineyard with views to nearby Mount Manypeaks in Albany. Richard and Julie Parish produce their award winning wines in small quantities allowing a hands-on approach with all tasks ensuring a close eye on quality and integrity.
Their grapes are dry grown and their wines are beautifully crafted by Mike Garland and Andrew Hoadley at Mt Shadforth Contract Crush in Denmark.
2010 will see the release of their first sparkling (Blanc de Blanc) Chardonnay and their 2008 Merlot, with a Cabernet/Merlot due for release in 2011.
They are eagerly anticipating their first Pinot Noir harvest in 2012.
Peos Estate
http://www.peosestate.com.au/
Manjimup has been home to the Macedonian-born Peos family for more than 80 years. Brothers Vic, John, Kon and Chris banded together in 1996 to create their vineyard as a legacy to their grandfather who had made wine in Macedonia nearly a century ago. Among the most impressive and promising new small producers on the block, with a number of recent show successes.
Pierro
http://www.pierro.com.au/
Pierro came about through a touch of serendipity and the passion and beliefs of Dr. Michael Peterkin. A Medical Practitioner as well as a fully qualified Viticulturalist and Winemaker Mike juggled the two demanding vocations for 25 years. Only recently did he finish up with his duties as a country Doctor to devote his energies full time to perfecting his wines.
Over the years Mike's wine has been described by the experts as “best new world white”, “a classic”,
“absolutely gorgeous”, “outstanding” and “Five Star
Chardonnay”.
Pierro Vineyard is one of the loveliest vineyards in Margaret River. It is tended with extreme care and while not officially organic, low input principles apply. Mike Peterkin was preaching sustainability and equilibrium long
before it became fashionable.
Plan B Wines
http://www.planbwines.com/
Plan B Wines is a joint venture between Garry Gosatti and Terry Chellappah at Arlewood Estate and respected winemaker Bill Crappsley. The idea for Plan B Wines was borne out of a desire to make wines that would appeal to the light hearted wine drinker looking for some value and substance in affordable wine. Latest wines are sourced from the Great Southern.
Plantagenet
http://www.plantagenetwines.com/
Plantagenet Wines was the first winery in the Great Southern wine growing region of Western Australia. From small beginnings Plantagenet Wines is now one of the most well respected Western Australian wineries consistently producing quality wines for nearly 30 years. Fruit for many of the wines is sourced from the oldest vineyards in the region.
Preveli Wines
http://www.preveliwines.com.au/
The Rosa Brook vineyard is a cooler sub region of Margaret River and being more inland it has lower evening temperatures and cooling winds from the Indian and Southern Oceans. The aim is to make aromatic whites that allow the fruit purity to show through and well structured reds that are balanced food wines. Significant vineyard rejuvenation and adoption of sustainable vineyard management has contributed to recent show success.
Robert Oatley
http://www.oatleywines.com.au/
Whilst Bob Oatley’s winemaking mission “to make the highest quality wine at the best possible price” hasn’t changed over the years his marketing strategy has. Bob was convinced by his family and friends in the industry to name his prestige wine range after himself.
The new packaging was developed to incorporate an artistic interpretation of three rings, reflecting the family’s long standing cattle brand.
Robert Oatley wines are built upon the Mudgee regions most successful varietals: Chardonnay Shiraz Cabernet and Merlot combined with grapes from three premier West Australian wine regions.
Each wine is crafted to display true varietal and regional expression in a modern style, with restrained oak influence, very little sweetness and relatively low alcohol. It’s a style that’s already garnering critical acclaim: “it strikes me as refreshing,” says Wine Spectator’s Harvey Steiman.
Bob just calls them “a darn good drink!”
Rosabrook Margaret River Wines
http://www.rosabrook.com/
Established in the early 1980s Rosabrook is one of the few wine labels from Margaret River that can call itself truly a ‘classic’.
In a market increasingly surrounded by an array of emerging brands Rosabrook has longevity which provides credibility with both restaurateurs retailers and consumers alike. Rosabrook’s wine making philosophy under the control of the much lauded winemaker Brian Fletcher is to allow the natural characters of the fruit to drive the wine flavours with minimal winemaking interference. Fruit for the Rosabrook wines is sourced from a number of the Calneggia family vineyards and selected grape growing partners.
Consistently highly rated by wine writers the Rosabrook wines have been receiving accolades both home and overseas for many years.
Sandalford
http://www.sandalford.com/
Sandalford has well and truly leapt into the big league of premium producers in WA having now completely transformed itself to a Margaret River wine operation. Both the Estate Reserve and the new Margaret River Range are entirely sourced from Margaret River fruit. The team of owner Peter Prendiville and winemaker Paul Boulden have taken the wines in an exciting new direction. Superb wines at all price points.
Founded in 1840, Sandalford is one of Western Australia's oldest and largest privately owned wineries. Located at the original property on the banks of the Swan River, Sandalford Estate is just 25 minutes drive from the city.
Sandalfords award-winning wines reflect contemporary wine making and include a Premium Collection and the popular Element Range. Recent modernisation increased Sandalford's capacity to almost one million litres in French and American Oak barrels and 600 square metres of underground storage. These state-of-the-art facilities permit custom requests of maturation stock.
Saracen Estates
http://www.saracenestates.com.au/
Saracen Estates is located on Caves Road and with involvement of the Duckstein Brewery it offers fine wine and premium quality craft beer together with excellent food.
The striking buildings are constructed from local timber and stone and contain a state-of-the-art craft brewery, cellar sales area, restaurant, beer garden and children's playground.
The aim is to produce high quality top end wines and with the guidance of Bob Cartwright they are well on the way.
Serventy
http://www.serventy.com.au/
The Margaret River region in Western Australia has the worlds most isolated vineyards.
Serventy Organic Wines is situated in a beautiful forested valley and is the oldest organic vineyard in Western Australia.
The prevailing winds of the Indian Ocean precipitate pure, pollution-free rainwater on to the 20 year old vines. These vines have been nurtured organically in soils that remain untainted by avoiding the use of synthetic chemicals. Serventy strictly adheres to the organic philosophy and are certified by the National Association of Sustainable Agriculture of Australia (NASAA) to Level A, the highest level of certification. This ensures 'clean' fruit and translates into a purity of wine unmatched anywhere on earth.
Singlefile Estate
http://www.singlefileestate.com/
Singlefile Estate is in the heart of the Scotsdale Valley 7km from Denmark.
Phil and Viv Snowden acquired the established 20-year old vineyard in 2007 after selling their mining consulting group. Their desire to create a special brand has kindled their vision to produce and market premium quality wine.
First wines are promising and expect some good things from this producer.
Stella Bella Wines
http://www.stellabella.com.au/
This is a small privately owned company that always seems to come up with interesting wines, interesting names and interesting styles. The wines are produced by Janice McDonald and her team under the names Stella Bella Suckfizzle and Skuttlebutt. While the wine brands are differentiated by sub-regions vineyards style and price the objective is always to create wines of expression personality and interest with an emphasis on unique imaging.
Swings and Roundabouts
http://www.swings.com.au/
Swings & Roundabouts based at the northern end of Margaret River sources fruit from a number of vineyards including shareholders and contract growers in addition to their own. The aim is to make styles with plenty of structure and finesse that deliver consistent value for money. The wine range is consistent and solid.
Tassell Park Wines
http://www.tassellparkwines.com/
This small producer has really come of age during the past few years, winning trophies and medals at national and regional wine shows.
Increasing demand has resulted in changes in the vineyard, notably grafting the reds with whites so as to change the varietal dominance to white.
Tassell Park is clearly one of the outstanding new producers in Margaret River.
The Treeton region provides fruit with subtle differences to the more opulent robust fruit sources further west.
The Lake House
http://www.lakehousedenmark.com.au/
Garry Capelli and Leanne Rogers had no background in wine when they bought the stunning property that already had an established 13-acre vineyard. The vineyard and the cellar door were not in production at the time but a lot of work has eventually built the place up.
Umamu Estate
http://www.umamuestate.com/
This new operation is based on vines first planted on this vineyard in 1978. A strong emphasis has been placed on the vineyard with the aim of allowing nature to achieve balance and equilibrium aimed at producing high quality fruit. Outstanding results in the most recent Decanter Wine Awards especially with Chardonnay.
Vasse Felix
http://www.vassefelix.com.au/
Planted in 1967 Vasse Felix is the oldest vineyard in the Margaret River wine region of Western Australia. Long growing seasons ancient soils and cooling sea breezes from the Southern and Indian Oceans provide the Vasse Felix vineyards with ideal viticultural conditions to craft consistent elegant and complex wines with pronounced varietal character and aroma.
Family owned and operated by the Holmes a Court family, Vasse Felix is one of the most highly visited wine destinations in Australia. A unique underground cellar a spectacular restaurant overlooking the original 1967 plantings and an exquisite art gallery makes Vasse Felix one of the great family owned drawcards of the Margaret River Region
Water Wheel
http://www.waterwheelwine.com/
Water Wheel Vineyards is owned by the Cumming family, who has farmed in the Bendigo region for fifty years. The original Water Wheel Vineyard was planted in 1970.
In 1989 the Cumming family purchased the winery and surrounding 20 acres of vines.
Since then three new vineyards have been planted at Bridgewater-on-Loddon to help enhance the complexity and improve the overall wine quality. Total plantings now exceed 300 acres.
Peter Cumming has a strong background in horticulture and places a strong emphasis on vineyard management and producing high quality fruit driven wines with strong varietal definition and length on the palate.
Watershed
http://www.watershedwines.com.au/
Watershed located 4.8 km south of the Margaret River town site on the Bussell Highway has come a long way since it released its first four wines in September 2002. Today Watershed produces 15 wine styles over three distinct ranges and approximately 100,000 cases annually from its state of the art award winning wine production facility. From the initial vineyard planting in 2001 of 78 hectares Watershed now has 187 hectares under vine spread over 4 vineyard sites in the Margaret River wine region. Watershed has a magnificent cellar door 200 seat restaurant & café all with panoramic views of the vineyard and dam. The restaurant and café are family friendly with a fully enclosed covered childrens playground and menus that offer affordable choices.
Were Estate
http://www.wereestate.com.au/
Were Estate is owned by Gordon and Diane Davies who purchased the property in 1993. The property was the 'home paddocks' of the Karendale Horse Stud. Karendale had been in the Forrest family since 1947 and was used mainly as a horse stud and agistment of brood mares. The vineyard was planted on the property in 1998.
The current owners were enchanted by the charm of the property and the remnants of the horse stud that remained such as the stockyards stables 'strapper's flat' and racetrack. To preserve this charm the 'strappers flat' was converted into the cellar door. The 'strapper' was the young apprentice that looked after the horses in the adjoining stables and the 'flat' was his/her residence.
West Cape Howe
http://www.westcapehowewines.com.au/
It is the quality of the Great Southern region and the combination of skill and artistry between viticulture and winemaking that makes drinking West Cape Howe wines a truly memorable experience.
Located in the Great Southern region of Western Australia West Cape Howe is one of the most southerly points rising some 250 metres above the Southern Ocean.
The winery is named after this magnificent landmark. The rugged coastline is home to some stunning beaches and great rock climbing sites.
Whicher Ridge
http://www.whicherridge.com.au/
Cathy and Neil Howard have been working in the wine industry for a combined period of forty five years, Neil as a viticulturist and Cathy as a winemaker. They launched their boutique wine brand Whicher Ridge in 2008 with a range of single vineyard single region wines.
The Whicher Ridge vineyard and winery is located in the south western corner of the Geographe wine region at Chapman Hill in the Whicher Range. Chapman Hill is about 20 Km due south of Busselton.
The wines from the Whicher Ridge vineyard include a Sauvignon Blanc a Viognier and a Cabernet Sauvignon. Grapes are sourced from a vineyard in the Frankland River area of the Great Southern region to make two more wines for the range a Riesling and a Shiraz.
Whitfield Estate
http://www.whitfieldestate.com.au/
Kelly and Graham Howard acquired Whitfield Estate in 2005. The vineyard was established in 1994 with Chardonnay and Shiraz and there have been a series of vineyard improvements since then.
The signature varietal for Whitfield Estate is Catriona’s Chardonnay which is aimed at the premium boutique market. There is also an estate grown Shiraz which is produced in good years.
Picnic in the Paddock café is excellent.
Wignalls
http://www.wignallswines.com.au/
Wignalls Wines was established in 1982 by its founder, Dr Bill Wignall with trial varieties such as Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. Since Rob and Claire Wignall took over significant viticultural and winemaking changes have led to evolution of wine styles that reflect the terroir and regionality. Pinot and Chardonnay are very good.
Wise Vineyards
http://www.wisewine.com.au/
Wise Vineyards was established in 1991 when Ron & Sandra Wise purchased Eagle Bay Estate and the adjoining Geographe Estate and nurtured the Shiraz, Cabernet and Semillon vines that were first planted in 1986.
Ron is passionate about West Australian wine and its ability to be judged amongst the worlds’ best.
He has invested over 16 years into analyzing soil segments, replanting varieties and setting benchmark standards in winery & viticultural practices to ensure that Wise Vineyards produce award winning wines of distinction.
Wise Winery is situated on the northern slopes of Cape Naturaliste 7km from the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse.
The vineyard's north-eastern aspect looking back over Geographe Bay and the West Coast of Australia ensures the vines receive the morning's first sunlight. Recent awards and accolades point to the quality of the wines.
Witchcliffe Estate
http://www.witchcliffe-estate.com.au/
Witchcliffe Estate is 18 years old but wine has only been made under the 'Witchcliffe Estate' label since 2003, with a cellar door being added in 2007.
Witchcliffe Estate's aim is to produce high quality wines at affordable prices with a friendly and informal cellar door.
The intention is keep influence on the vineyard to a minimum.
Wombat Lodge
http://www.wombatlodgewines.com.au/
Wombat Lodge Wines was initiated by Warick Gerrard in 1998 because of his love of fine wine and a good surf. The original plantings of Semillon Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon were largely sold with the best of the red retained to make Wombat Lodge Cabernet Merlot. Production remains small.
Woodside Valley Estate
http://www.woodsidevalleyestate.com.au/
The Woodside vineyard is on Abbey Farm Road not far from Yallingup where owner Peter Woods spent many weekends surfing in the early 1960s. The early wines from Woodside indicate a potential to make a real statement for both reds and whites from this northern area. The quality and level of sophistication in both the reds and whites are already quite apparent.
Woody Nook
http://www.woodynook.com.au/
Award-winning wines delicious food great value and a charming setting - Woody Nook Wines.
Nestled in the Margaret River wine-growing area of Western Australia and just a few miles from the Indian Ocean, Woody Nook is situated on a ridge of rich gravelly loam. Its vines are unirrigated resulting in full fruit flavours and distinctive varietal characteristics.
Woody Nook is family owned unpretentious and small, but proud of the critical acclaim they consistently receive for the quality of their premium wines.
Xabregas Wines
http://www.xabregas.com.au/
Owners of Xabregas Wines, the Hogan family, have five generations of family interests in sheep grazing and forestry in the Great Southern district and in 1996 Terry Hogan, founding Chairman of Xabregas Wines turned his view from forestry to viticulture where he felt that the Mount Barker region was “far too good dirt to waste on blue gums” – planting three vineyards which now total some 120Ha.
With the evolving of the region the Hogan family has begun to evolve and shape the future of Xabregas by concentrating on the regions strengths – Shiraz and Riesling and also on retaining all wines from the single estate – showcasing their best wines as a product of the best individual vineyards. The wines have been consistent award winners and received strong critical acclaim.
Xanadu
http://www.xanaduwines.com/
Situated only five minutes from the town centre of Margaret River and an equal distance from the magnificent south west coast, Xanadu is a true pioneer of the region with a long history of producing wines with distinct character.
Xanadu was established by John Lagan, an Irishman, who arrived in Margaret River in 1968 and was inspired by the pioneering spirit of the region. At the time, the potential of Margaret River as one of the world's finest wine-producing regions was only just being considered. John established one of the region's earlier vineyards planting his first vines in 1977. Enjoying a strong family focus since its inception almost 30 years ago, the company was listed on the ASX in April 2001, but returned to family ownership in August 2005 when the assets were purchased by the Rathbone Family.
The Rathbone family remain focused on producing premium wines that reflect the true characteristics of the Margaret River region.
Winery of the Year 2007 WA Tourism Awards
wine by brad
http://www.winebybrad.com.au/
wine by brad is a fresh and innovative winemaker from Margaret River delivering a unique stylish and value driven range of wines.
The owner and creator of this retro pop-art label is long time Margaret River wine identity Brad Wehr.
Don’t be fooled by the fun and funky packaging – the wines regularly win wine show Trophies and Gold Medals and receive accolades from wine reviewers around the country.
Wines made under this quirky label are designed to be varietally and regionally expressive and include Semillon Sauvignon Blanc Cabernet Merlot and a
Cabernet Rose. The super premium Mantra series of wines was introduced in 2007 to add, as Wehr puts it, “a level of quiet sophistication” to the portfolio.
Wines under the Mantra label include Chardonnay Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz and Sangiovese.
Fruit for both labels is purchased from local grower, and in the case of Mantra grapes are often drawn from single-vineyard estates. The wines are made
under the direction of Wehr at several leading Margaret River wineries.