Margaret River Visitor Guide

Diversity Relish the From mouth watering seafood and fresh local produce to world-class wines, this region provides an abundance of culinary delights. It has been a mere 40 years since the first vines were planted, but near perfect growing conditions have enabled Margaret River to quickly become recognised as one of the world's great fine wine producers. Today, the names of the Margaret River wineries grace the tables of the world with refinement and style and are our most sophisticated ambassadors. Over the last decade or so there has been a proliferation of cellar doors opening, ranging from small rustic affairs to grand testaments of innovation and creative architecture. If wine is not your thing do not despair, there is also a selection of gorgeous boutique breweries that provide their own rural ambience and superb drops! Producers making great coffee and refreshing soft drink provide some non-alcoholic options. wInE VaRIETaLS Few locations are so suited to producing distinctive premium wine. Celebrated as one of the world's most conducive areas for producing Chardonnay it's here you will find wines of great intensity, length and character. The region is possibly even more highly regarded for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet blends which are prized for their dense fruit flavours, multi-layered complexity and cellaring potential. But there are many other excellent varietals to Viticulture is the largest primary industry within the region and also its highest economic driver Approximately 150 wine producers Nearly 5,500 hectares under vine 14 | RELISH THE DIVERSITY try including some show-stopping Shiraz and Sauvignon Semillon Blancs, unconventional varietals like Sangiovese and Viognier and exciting experimental styles such as chilli wine. An appreciation for the pristine environment and a more healthy way of living has also led to an increase in the production of preservative free wine, along with organic and biodynamic farming practices and wine making. wInERIES The wineries are the true ambassadors for the region, and the wine industry pioneers have been responsible for putting the region on the map. With over 150 wine producers in the region you are spoilt for choice, with many boasting restaurants, market gardens, inspiring architecture, art galleries and boutique giftware. bOUTIQUE bREwERIES & DISTILLERIES Over recent years there has been the emergence of a popular beer and liqueur scene in the region, with many of the premises speckled amongst the vines. They often offer fantastic food and regular live entertainment. They are as diverse in their architecture as the wineries, ranging from grand affairs to rustic paddock retreats. CULInaRy DELIGhTS A smorgasbord of gastronomic delights awaits visitors to the region, where you can taste a delectable assortment of local produce including cheese, chocolate, fudge, candy, berries, olives MaRGaRET RIVER GEOGRaphIC InDICaTOR wInE SnapShOT Predominately niche operations, with the smallest crush being 3.5 tonnes to the largest around 10,000 Seasonally dependent vintage (harvest) occurs between the end of February and mid to late April and olive oils, jams and condiments. Local chefs have developed close ties with growers and farmers in the area and as a result many restaurant tables are graced with excellent fresh local produce like asparagus, limes, olives and olive oil, vegetables, sheep's cheese, ostrich and venison. Freshly caught marron, as well as nannygai and dhufish are also firm favourites in local restaurants, which range from fine dining to relaxed, more casual establishments for those on a budget. Winery and brewery eateries shouldn't be missed as it's here you will understand the synergy between local food and beverages. It's also the perfect way to while away a lazy afternoon, accompanied often by live entertainment; and a few establishments also offer the opportunity for an unforgettable twilight dining experience amongst the vines. MEET ThE MakERS The region is home to a passionate and dynamic group of growers, viticulturists, winemakers and farmers. Take the opportunity whilst here to meet with them and discover what's in season and an excellent range of organic and biodynamic products. • • Take a tour of an on-site garden at one of the local restaurants • • Go behind the scenes on a winery tour Meet the winemaker at the cellar door Visit one of the many local farmers markets Food, Wine & Beer

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