1. Experience the wineries at their most intimate
Winter is one of the best times to explore Margaret River’s cellar doors. There’s more time for meaningful conversations with the people behind the wines, cosy tastings by the fire and a relaxed pace inviting you to linger all afternoon in calm and tranquillity. Lenton Brae, Vasse Felix, Swings & Roundabouts and Flametree Wines and Amelia Park Restaurant all feature fireplaces. Some include wines by the glass options with no reservations required.
2. Taste the region’s newest vintage
Winter offers the first glimpse of bright, aromatic white wines and rosés, fresh from vintage earlier in the year. Cabernets and Chardonnays will mature in barrel a little longer, however several icon wines are released just prior to winter, with allocations still available at the cellar door, for those who make the pilgramage.
3. Discover spectacular whale watching
From mid-May to December, over 35,000 humpback, southern right, minke and blue whales migrate south along the Margaret River coast. From May to August, head south to Flinders Bay, Augusta to witness the spectacle. Stop at Glenarty Road or Hamelin Bay Wines while you are down there.
4. Indulge in truffle season
Winter is truffle season in Western Australia and Margaret River’s restaurants embrace it wholeheartedly. Fresh Manjimup black truffles appear on menus throughout the region, shaved generously over everything from handmade pasta, to fries at the Settler’s Tavern – famous for their award-winning winelist “bible”.
5. See the region at its greenest
Winter rain transforms the landscape. Margaret River receives around 1,000 millimeters of rainfall a year during the winter season. The landscape turns vibrant green, forests come alive and dramatic coastal swells provide spectacular scenery. Plus, you’ll definitely be able to chase the end of several rainbows to see if the pot of gold legend is true. A cosy glass of Cabernet at your accommodation by night rounds out the perfect experience.
