Western Australia

Wine-growing region (GI) in the federal state of Western Australia, part of the South West Australia zone. It is located between Geograph Bay and the south coast. The region on the Indian Ocean coast is the most popular tourist area in Australia, and is a surfers’ paradise. The first vineyard was established in Bunbury in 1890, but large-scale viticulture has only developed since the mid 1960’s. The first Australian wine of origin system was introduced here in 1978, but this did not meet with any success. The region has a maritime climate, quite high humidity and lots of winds. The vineyard area totals around 1.000 hectares, located along the Margaret River and its sidearms. 40% of the area is planted with the white varieties Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon and Verdelho, the remaining 60% is planted with the red varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz and Zinfandel. A large quantity of table grapes is also produced. There are around 75 wineries in total, the best-known of which include Amberley Estate, Brookland Valley, Cape Mentelle, Château Xanadu, Cullen Wines, Devil´s Lair, Evans & Tate, Fermoy Estate, Happ´s Vineyard, Leewin Estate, Lenton Brae, Moss Wood, Pierro, Sandalford, Sandstone, Vasse Felix, Willespie and Woody Nook.