The Margaret River is one of Australia’s most enchanting destinations. Not only is it a sublime region situated around the gorgeous river itself, but it’s also one of Australia’s most revered wine regions, making it a dream trip for connoisseurs and weekenders alike!
So, before you get down to this lovely part of Oz and sample the likes of the great Cullen Vanya Cabernet Sauvignon, be sure to check out these awesome facts about this inspiring part of the world:
It is more reminiscent of European wines
The Margaret River’s top three grape varieties include Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. All of these varieties come from Bordeaux, and they often find themselves into delectable blends, including Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon. In contrast, more typically Australian varieties like Chardonnay and Shiraz are less common, making the region more closely related to Europe in terms of viticulture.
The Margaret River runs through the region
The Margaret River is only 60km long, flowing from its source in the Whicher Range all the way across the Margaret Plateau until it reaches that wild uninhibited ocean.
The Whicher Range experiences a generally tranquil river that changes its character with seasonal changes impacting the banks and causing them to expand. And, trust us, you will want to experience River Mouth Beach, as this is the place where the wild waves meet the calm river, thus creating a spectacular natural show unlike most you will see in the world!
It is far out west
East coast Aussies like to think Perth is far west, only to realise that Margaret River is pretty much as far west as you can get in this giant land. The region consists of a narrow stretch of land bounded by the wild Indian Ocean. The actual town of Margaret River is essentially a surfer’s wonderland, with just over 6,000 people living the dream where the waves meet the wine.
To reach Margaret River, you have to drive a massive 275 km from Perth, making it one of the most isolated wine regions in the world! This only adds to its wonder, as visitors feel they have entered a truly special place where nature is paramount and the food and wine is spectacular.
It’s a young wine region
The Margaret River is isolated, so much so that it was a little behind the curb when it came to creating viticulture there. It wasn’t until the 1960s that the likes of Tom Cullity arrived there to plant vines that would soon become the world’s renowned Vasse Felix Winery. Soon after, other notable producers started growing in the region, and today we have the wonderful wines that make the Margaret River such a delightful place to visit, enjoy a drink and some of the other fine produce that makes the region famous. Don’t pass up on visiting Cullen Wines, where the spectacular Cullen Vanya Cabernet Sauvignon awaits your patronage.
It’s a maritime region
The raging Indian Ocean largely influences the Margaret River, and this ensures that the region experiences plenty of rainfall, with around 1,000 mm – or 40 inches – of annual rain. But this is part of its mixture, as there are also more Mediterranean climatic elements, with large amounts of rain falling throughout the winter and dry, warm summers where you won’t likely experience freezing temperatures (and little chance of frost!).
We hope these fun facts have spurred your Margaret River interest a little further, especially when you consider some of the world’s best food, wine and waves await you in this charming coastal wonderland!
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