Earlier this year, Margaret River Wine Region played host to the Western Australia based judging for the International Wine and Spirit Challenge (IWSC). Esteemed wine professionals from around the world visited the region, and have shared an array of stories from their time in Margaret River. Discover them below.Club Oenologique - Aleesha Hansel - Margaret River’s Winemakers Embrace Alternative Grape Varieties
(Jul 9)
"While the classic varieties in Margaret River continue to shine, Aleesha Hansel is struck by an appetite amongst the region's producers to make wines from less traditional grapes. It was a trend that intrigued at a recent IWSC judging."
The Drinking Hour: With David Kermode – FoodFM – Tim Shand, Voyager Estate
(Jul 20, 49 min)
"David talks to the Chief Winemaker Tim Shand, at pioneering Margaret River winery Voyager Estate, established in 1978. Tim talks about his winemaking journey across Australia, what makes the region so special, and the challenges and rewards of going organic."
Over A Glass with Shanteh Wale - Leah Clearwater (Overstory Wine) - a wonderful world
(Jul 17, 39 min)
"Leah Clearwater is the Business Manager of Overstory Wine but to pigeonhole her into one role seems sacrilegious, so instead I’ll let her tell you more about her wonderful world and the many hats she wears."
Over A Glass with Shanteh Wale - John O’Connor (Wine for Dudes) – chief dude
(Jul 4, 36 min)
"John O’Connor is the chief dude of Wine for Dudes. The owner operator of the very successful and totally unique Margaret River wine tour company. Johnno name is like folklore and travelling with him through the region is a trip you, just, MUST take!"
Over A Glass with Shanteh Wale – Joanne Davies (Windows Estate)
(Jul 26, 36 mins)
"Joanna Davies and her husband Chris are the owners of Windows Estate, a small, certified organic wine producer in Margaret River. Their value lies in regenerative farming coupled with the peace and hustle of family country life."