Western Australia Wine Regions

Margaret River

Warm maritime climate/Elevation about 90m
Serious vineyard development began in this area in the late 1960s. The region has established an astonishing reputation in just 30 years, illustrating a consistency in quality and a strongly focussed winemaking culture. The region can be divided in three subregions: the cooler south between Yallingup and Karridale; the warm and sunnier Willyabrup in the centre and Margaret River in the north with similar soils, but slightly cooler temperatures.

Primary Styles: Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc.

Major Wineries: Cape Mentelle, Cullen, Devil’s Lair, Leeuwin Estate, Moss Wood, Pierro, Vasse Felix, Voyager Estate, Xanadu.

Pemberton

Cool climate/Elevation 170m
Pemberton is a pioneering wine region with great potential, located in the southwest of Western Australia in the heart of karri forest country. The first grapes were planted in 1977, with commercial plantings expanding throughout the 1980s. The climate here is markedly cooler and slightly wetter than the Margaret River growing season. This region is unproven, although Pinot Noir is particularly promising. It is also well suited to the production of refined Bordeaux style wines.

Primary Varieties: Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay.

Major Wineries: Pemberton Estate, Picardy, Salitage.

Great Southern (Albany, Mount Barker, Frankland River)

Cool climate/Elevation 60–250m
Successful trials in the 1960’s encouraged Tony Smith of Plantagenet Wines to plant the first commercial vineyard of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz in 1968. The overall ripening season is similar to the Médoc. It is therefore no surprise that Cabernet Sauvignon, and even Merlot, do particularly well, especially around Mount Barker and Porongurup. Frankland River has a strong reputation for its Riesling, more on account of low vigour and moderate ripening conditions. This district is particularly suitable to Chardonnay.

Primary Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Riesling, Chardonnay.

Major Wineries: Howard Park, Plantagenet, Alkoomi, Ferngrove, Forest Hill, Frankland Estate.