Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Margaret River
WA's best wineries are in Margaret River, 250km (3½ hours' drive) southwest of Perth.
The climate is defined by cooling ocean breezes, producing Margaret River's distinctively
elegant and rich wines.
Margaret River also produces many blends of semillon and sauvignon blanc grapes.
These very popular fruity wines are not Margaret River's very best, but they are often the
most affordable. Cape Mentelle, Cullen Wines and Lenton Brae all make good examples.
Cullen Wines is also renowned for its organic and sustainable approach to winemaking.
MARGARET RIVER'S FOUNDING FIVE
Five top wineries compose the cornerstone of Margaret River.
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Cape Mentelle
Makes consistently excellent cabernet sauvignon and a wonderful example of sauvignon blanc
semillon.
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Cullen Wines
(
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) Still in the family, producing superb chardonnay and excellent cabernet merlot
while adhering to sustainable winemaking principles.
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Leeuwin Estate
(
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) Stylish cellar door, a highly regarded restaurant, and put chardonnay on the map
in Australia with its Art Series.
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Moss Wood
Makes a heady semillon, a notable cabernet sauvignon and a surprising pinot noir.
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Vasse Felix
(
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) Must-see winery with a renowned restaurant.
Swan Valley
The Swan Valley may once have aspired to take on mighty Margaret River, but now the
region's true merit lies in its proximity to Perth and its small clutch of winery-restaurants
- not the wines per se. It's hotter than down south, so leisurely outdoor-dining opportunit-
ies are better. You can also travel from Perth along the Swan River to the Sandalford Win-
ery.
Houghton Wines is the area's best winery, and the Houghton Classic White, a blend of
white-wine grapes that tastes like a mix of tropical, zesty fruits, is the Swan Valley's most
ubiquitous wine. Others of note include Lamont Wines and Sandalford. Best for lunch are
Riverbank Estate and Lamont's (tapas only).
