Just a few hours south of our fair city lies one of the world’s most heralded winery regions in Margaret River. And there’s HEAPS of ‘em. Dozens in fact. So many, that perhaps it can feel a little daunting when it comes to picking places.
Well here at Perth Is OK we’re in the business of helping you make the tough decisions. Below we’ve compiled a list of some of our favourite dropsstops around Margaret River and the South West region. It’s by no means a definitive list (exploring and taking chances is half the fun!), and we’ve tried to look at a variety of place to suit different occasions.
Bottoms up!
Wills Domain
Wills Domain has arguably one of the best views in the South West, taking in the rolling hills of Gunyulgup Valley in Yallingup. Fortunately they back it up with some stellar wines and food courtesy of Executive Chef Seth James. Clear your afternoon and lock in for a long lunch.
Photo by @thisishelenchan
Amelia Park Winery
One of the South West region’s most popular spots, their cellar door alone is a dramatic experience within itself. But if you can drag yourself away from the incredible views (and wine of course), their restaurant will feed all food requirements, and handsomely so with big servings.
Photo by @typicaltaufiq
Arimia
Arimia is very quickly becoming a not-so-secret gem of the Margaret River region. The relaxed atmosphere compliments their spectacular bushland setting, honest food and un-pretentious wine. Most of the produce is sourced from the property, and their six course offering is as reasonably priced as it is delicious.
Photo by @wouterrr888
Blind Corner
Blind Corner is one for the burgeoning natural wine set, and their cellar door is a chill af. The staff are great and happy to guide natural beginners, and you can bring your own nibbles to enjoy with your new natty on the grounds.
Photo by @downsouthdiary
Marq Wines
WA winemaker Mark Warren has made a name for himself over the years thanks to his love of experimentation. It’s produced a fantastic selection across the board at Marq, and coupled with some of the best cheese platters down south, can’t be beat. Only open Friday to Sunday.
Photo by @tinycoffee.onclark
Aravina Estate
Aravina Estate is another place that you might find very difficult to leave. Along with their incredible wine selection and exceptional menu with a heap of gluten free options, there’s also a huge kids playground, antique car and motorbike collection, and surf museum. Cowabunga.
Photo by @sharonjordi
Cullen Wines
One of the original wineries in the South West, Cullen is almost un-paralleled for its fine dining experience. Led by exec chef Iain Roberston, Cullen is a fully biodynamic, carbon neutral affair so you can feel good while you eat and drink very good.
Photo by @jkerrrrr
Hay Shed Hill / Rustico
Hay Shed Hill double up their own wines along with the equally delicious Pitchfork banner, which you can try before sliding into Rustico next door. There you’ll get some of the best tapas WA has to offer amidst a massive selection of gluten free-options, all while glancing out across endless valleys of vines.
Photo by @kristygram_
Barnyard 1978
A truly unique winery, Barnyard 1978 is a self-described “development concept and a mix of modern and old architecture with a link between nature, landscape and ecological sustainability.” Sounds intense, but they’re super casual, make a mean signature pasta and some heavenly honey to go with some cruisy drops.
Photo by @hiro_margslife
Flametree Wines
For those looking to more coastal vibes, Flametree Wines’ awesome little beach house cellar door in Geographe Bay is a must. Check out their art gallery, dip into a locally sourced platter and enjoy their wide array of award winning wines in a very relaxed setting.
Photo by @aydenkapisiz
Stella Bella
If you’re looking for something a little more intimate, Stella Bella is a local fave. Their cellar door has drops from all five of their vineyards around the region, and while they don’t do food, you’re more than welcome to set up a picnic on the grounds.
Photo by @scottbauerphoto
Brookwood Estate
The crown jewel of Cowaramup, Brookwood Estate’s owners have been on the land for over 100 years, with the vineyard starting up in 1996. Their sparkling, whites and reds are all winners, and they do (among other things) a fantastic 5-course, $39 set menu. One of the best reviewed places down south.
Photo by @kiraleesmith_
Voyager Estate
One of the biggest and most popular wineries down south, one wander around their stunning grounds and you’ll instantly know why. But even more telling is their Cab Sav and Chardonnay selection, and if treating yourself is the order of the day, their 7- or 4-course Discovery Menus are a must.
Photo by @ultimatewineries
The Berry Farm
In the mood for some artisanal goods to go with your new wines? Berry Farm has an incredible array of jams, sauces, syrups and more. Their Cottage Café also makes for a ripping lunch spot in a relaxed garden setting. Dine out while you watch the kids wear ‘emselves out on the huge playgrounds or chase native birds.
Photo by @nadin_prosper
