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Overview:
The Margaret River area includes the rolling hills of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge, extending 90 km north-south between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin, and is bounded to the west by the Indian Ocean.
Initially regarded as a producer of powerful yet elegant Cabernet Sauvignon, the region has also forged a great reputation for its white wines, notably Chardonnay and Semillon Sauvignon Blanc blends. However, it is capable of producing all the classic varietal wines.In the last 20 years, plantings have increased tenfold and wine producer numbers have increased six times to more than 120. Between them they crush more than 35,000 tonnes.
Terroir & Environment:
More so than any other Australian region, the climate has a strong maritime influence. It also has, for good measure, the most marked Mediterranean climate in terms of rainfall. Low variation in mean annual temperatures means an unusually even accumulation of warmth. The varied landscape is given character by the abundance of small creeks and gentle valleys, as well as the profusion of native trees, shrubs and flowers.
The principal soil type is that of the ridge which runs from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin; it is predominantly gravelly or gritty sandy loam that has formed directly from the underlying granite and gneissic rock. The soils are highly permeable when moist but moisture is quickly shed from sloping sites.
Renowned for:
Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon
C’ellar Vie Estates of Interest:
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