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Margaret River WA was originally a chilled out surfie town, but has evolved into the ultimate smorgasbord of fine wine, good food and spectacular scenery — just a three-and-a-half hour drive south of Perth. No trip to Western Australia is complete without a pit stop at Margaret River.

There’s a fine supply of world-class wineries, boutique breweries, and restaurants overlooking sweeping vineyards and surf breaks.

The wine is definitely top notch – the region produces less than three per cent of Australian wine, but wait for it – nearly 30 per cent of the country’s premium wine.

And with nearly 100 plus wineries to choose from, you won’t be stuck for choice.

One of the best ways to experience the wine that Margaret River has to offer is on a tour. This video features a tour with the The Margaret River Discovery Company hosted by expert local guide Sean Blocksidge. Armed with a luxury 4WD plus a canoe he plots a journey that takes you behind the tourist facade, away from the masses to discover people and places you won’t find on your own.

The aim is to give the traveller the most memorable wine touring experience ever, and in the process, really experience the richness and diversity of this unique corner of the world. He calls it ‘the tour for people who dont do tours’.

Please note this video features the Margaret River Discovery Tour (Tues/Thurs/Fri). On alternate days Sean offers the Best of the Best Wine Tour (Mon/Wed/Sat). See www.margaretriverdiscovery.com.au for more details.

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I always look forward to seasonal vineyard updates from Bruce Pearce. This is one is cracker. If you are a wine or vine nerd enjoy ….

The Margaret River wine region covers two shires (Busselton and Augusta – Margaret River) and is approximately 100km long and 27km wide. We are a large wine region that is influenced by the Southern and Indian Oceans. The Southern Ocean influence results in the southern vineyards having a somewhat cooler temperature profile and as we move further north the Indian Ocean influence kicks in and the climate warms. Over many years of viticulture excellence we understand and work with the variation in climate from south to north of the Margaret River wine region. Fortunately we are having a great growing season here in Margaret River and the spread of climatic variation adds to the complexity and depth of wines produced. As fate would have it, Margaret River had missed a lot of the inclement weather that occurred in the north and the southern areas of the state. Our geographic location has put us in a solid viticultural position again for vintage 2012…..

What we didn’t miss though was the fire that caused havoc and loss of property along the coastal mid section of the region. Thank goodness no one was injured. A couple of vines scorched and a lot of smoke that fortunately occurred at a time when vines would be least susceptible. With much of the smoke rising over southern vineyards and passing out to sea, the vineyards are OK. Unfortunately, a lot of lost hours worrying and fighting a fire and a few local mates that will need to rebuild and start over again…. mates with families that work in and around our wine industry! The strength of our local community spirit is working to help these families through and we appreciate the kind donations from Wine Lovers.

This year Margaret River wine region had a reasonably normal start to spring but with a wetter November than recent averages would suggest. The result has been earlier season vigour and a sprint for vineyard managers and viticulturists keeping up with canopy performance targets. One viticulturist recognised for his dedication to growing grapes and meeting targets is Bart Molony. Bart is with Vasse Felix and recently was awarded the prestigious Margaret River Wine Industry Association – Viticulture Excellence Award… Well done Bart!! (I have had the pleasure of working with Bart at Vasse Felix for a few years now!). Its guys like Bart that will ensure our drinking pleasure for years to come!

Viticulturists are enjoying grape vines growing actively from budbreak until flowering, this is positive for canopy surface area to fruit yield ratios and also fruitfulness for next years crop. We know that buds formed when active shoot growth occurs are more fruitful and the practices applied to encourage strong early season growth start in the previous year. By having strong early season growth we use the natural reduction in soil surface moisture taken up by the vines to encourage mild moisture stress in the surface root zone of the grape vine. This in turn slows shoot growth through the fruitset to bunch closure period and then hopefully will allow cessation of shoot growth at approximately 10 to 20 days before veraison (veraison is the period where berry colour change or softening occurs). This is exactly how we like our red variety vines to be leading into the fruit maturation period. We know that our red varieties have the best quality fruit when mild moisture stress occurs prior to veraison and harvest. As the surface root system dries, there is a change in the chemicals/hormones produced by the roots and this signals the vine to change from shoot growth to reproduction (berries with ripe seeds). The result is berries that have more colour, flavour and aroma… all natural attributes for a plant trying to promote seed dispersal. Vine health is maintained with the deep penetration roots that have accessed moisture in clay at depth, supplying the moisture for natural vine function.

We have put considerable effort into getting soils correct in nutrition and health and this also results in managing readily available soil moisture naturally and reduces the need for supplementary irrigation. It does go without saying (but I will anyway!), we do assess our vineyard soils and vine performance leading into flowering and veraison and if necessary we can apply supplementary irrigation to protect flowering and the berry maturation period. This is viticultural excellence at its best!

Pasture and cover crop growth in mid-rows this spring has been phenomenal and as a result the future of soil health and vine performance is looking very promising. Timing will see most vineyards complete canopy and fruit zone management by late December and we are hoping for some fine and mild weather through the next 3 months to ripen grapes. We forecast the 2012 vintage starting mid February…. it’s shaping up to be a ripper!

An amazing period to be out in the vineyard and we hope that all wine lovers have a merry Christmas and prosperous New Year.

Contributed by viticulturist Bruce Pearce

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With a hands-on approach to winemaking and a wealth of experience here and abroad, Clive Otto has been crucial to the rise and rise of Margaret River.

When he left Vasse Felix in 2005, few would have anticipated the revitalisation of Clive Otto’s career that would occur after he joined Fraser Gallop. Otto had come West chasing the Margaret River surf after he had finished his post-graduate diploma in winemaking at Roseworthy in 1989. He put his name down to do vintage at Vasse Felix and, when Bernie Abbott left, he found himself the winemaker working under David Gregg.

Gregg was a mentor for Clive Otto, leaving an abiding impression on him of the importance of drinkability in winemaking. When he retired in 1994, Otto took over as chief winemaker. During his time at Vasse Felix, production increased dramatically and the flagship Heytesbury wines were introduced. Importantly, Otto proved himself to be an outstanding winemaker as his record in wine shows indicates. His duties eventually took him away from the coalface into promotional activities and, in 2005, he was told that he was no longer required.

Here followed a short, difficult period which he filled by taking on consultancy work and securing a barrel agency. He did the 2006 vintage at Central Otago’s Amisfield and was then offered the winemaker’s job at Fraser Gallop. The 16-hectare, dry-grown vineyard at Wilyabrup, was planted by Nigel Gallop from 1999. Otto was attracted by Gallop’s emphasis on quality, his determination to keep yields low, and the focus on single-site cabernet and chardonnay.

Born in Tanzania and raised in Auckland, Otto did a horticultural degree at Massey University, then worked at Matawhero. Later, Hätsch Kalberer at Fromm shared his love of European wines with Otto and he became hooked on winemaking. After three years as a horticultural rep in the kiwi fruit industry and trips to Malibu and South Africa he enrolled at Roseworthy.

What excited him most about the move to Fraser Gallop was the opportunity to become involved once more in hands-on winemaking in a situation where those working in the winery needed to interact closely with those toiling in the vineyard.

In 2006, malbec was added to the small amount of petit verdot, cabernet franc and merlot grown on the property for inclusion with the cabernet sauvignon. In 2008, semillon was planted at the urging of distributor, Garry Steele, who believed that Margaret River could produce serious, oaked semillon sauvignon blanc in the style of Bordeaux. Otto spent time during the 2009 vintage at Graves producer, Domaine de Chevalier to see at first-hand how the French tackled this white blend. The Fraser Gallop Semillon Sauvignon Blanc is bright and lively with passionfruit and tropical flavours before a crisp, zesty dry finish, while the Parterre is more restrained, complex and textural yet fresh and zingy, finishing dry and long.

The Fraser Gallop Chardonnay is in the modern style, early picked so that it is tight, lean and linear with marvellous oyster-shell complexity, savoury rather than fruity flav-ours, seamlessly integrated oak, followed by a refreshing dry finish that lingers. The Fraser Gallop Cabernet Merlot has drawn attention because of its ripe blackcurrant flavours and lush approachability. The Fraser Gallop Caber-net is a first-rate Margaret River red.
Fraser Gallop has made a bigger impact on the Margaret River wine scene than any other winery established since the region’s early days: Clive Otto has been a vital element in that success.

TEXT PETER FORRESTAL PHOTOGRAPHY FRASER GALLOP

This article is from the August/September 2011 issue of Gourmet Traveller WINE.

http://gourmettraveller.com.au/gourmet-traveller-wine-winemaker-of-the-year-2011-finalist-clive-otto-fraser-gallop.htm?rcid=10855&mode=rcid

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Iconic Aussie rockers Cold Chisel have announced their biggest tour in almost 30 years.

The Light the Nitro Tour will see the band play 24 concerts throughout Australia and New Zealand from October to December.

The band has also released all of its recordings digitally for the first time with the release including 56 rare and previously unreleased tracks.

The set list will feature more than 20 of their classic songs including Khe Sanh, Flame Trees, Bow River, My Baby, You Got Nothing I Want, Last Wave Of Summer, Forever Now, Cheap Wine, Choir Girl, Standing On The Outside, Rising Sun and Saturday Night, with one or two new tracks to be showcased.

Since rising to popularity in the 70s and early 80s the music of Cold Chisel has remained an Australian favourite as shown by the appearance of two of their albums in a new Triple J listener poll of Australia’s 100 greatest albums of all time.

Cold Chisel will perform on Saturday November 26 at Sandalford Estate in Margaret River and on Sunday November 27 at Belvoir Amphitheatre in Perth.

Tickets are on sale from August 4 at www.sandalford.com.au and Ticketmaster.

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One of my hero’s is renowned Western Australian photographer Christian Fletcher. He recently won Australian Landscape Photographer of the Year for 2011.

But his photographic skill and artistry is only part of the reason he is among my hero list.

When I started my business nearly 4 years ago I approached Christian Fletcher with a request to provide high quality imagery of the region for my business. At the time I’d blown most of my money on other start up costs and I had nothing to offer him except a promise.

A promise to refer as many of my guests as possible to his galleries. Assuming I would even have any guests. And he embraced the idea, supplying high resolution imagery, signage, frames and enthusiasm for my endeavour.

Four years on, the MRDCo has proved itself a successful business hosting thousands of visitors to the region and I would like to think that Christian Fletcher Galleries receive more guests and more value than he ever imagined.

Christian Fletcher Galleries was one of several business that embraced the win win principle in working with The Margaret River Discovery Co. These included Blue Ginger Cafe, Cape Lodge, Seagardens and Fraser Gallop Estate. Similarly several businesses rejected the concept trying to negotiate a win/lose scenario ….. those same businesses, sadly, passed up the ongoing opportunity.

I thank Christian and all my business partners for their support and embracing the win win principle.

If you are headed down south be sure to visit the Christian Fletcher Galleries in Dunsborough, Margaret River and Mandurah. His recent work from the Pilbara and Kimberley are stunning and must been seen up close to fully appreciate.

One of the images that helped Christian win Landscape Photograper of the Year. Karlamilyi National Park is the largest national park in Western Australia and one of the largest in the world. In fact, it is more than two-and-a-half times a large as the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. But as well as being so vast, it is also one of the most remote places in the world.

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The Margaret River Tour for people who don’t do tours.

A short Youtube video of the Margaret River Discovery Co wine tours and discovery tours.

If this video does not show in this browser please google the words -
“margaret river discovery tours youtube video” and watch the video on Youtube directly.

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Australia’s most esteemed wine journalist, James Halliday, recently sent an email update to his Wine Club members regarding Margaret River.

Here is a small excerpt-

“Margaret River has the most reliable climate of all the major wine regions – indeed all – of Australia. Its latitude and the ever-present maritime influence of the Indian Ocean combine to give it high winter rainfall and a very even accumulation of heat throughout the growing season.

That accumulation of what are called Heat Degree Days is higher than that of Bordeaux (Coonawarra is closer) but not significantly so. Thus it is no surprise that the Bordeaux red varieties, headed by cabernet sauvignon and merlot, and the white varieties (sauvignon blanc and semillon) flourish in Margaret River – viewed collectively, the best in Australia.”

What a great piece of advice to consider next time you are facing a wall of wine in a bottleshop!

My general rule is that if it’s over thirty bucks, and produced in Margaret River, you can’t really go wrong.

You can join James Hallidays Wine Companion newsletter here http://winecompanion.com.au/

The Margaret River Best of the Best Wine Tour visits wineries that are Five Star rated by James Halliday, including a very special behind the scenes vineyard and winery tour at Cape Mentelle and degustation lunch in the Cape Mentelle Barrel Room.

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Viticulturist Christo Edwards from Edwards wines

Out in the Margaret River Vineyards Winter 2011Contributed by Bruce Pearce

The winter is now with us and recent rainfall has been a welcome relief from the extended dry summer and autumn period. Those vineyards in Margaret River that have planted cover crops, now have the indication of seed establishment and we can see some fantastic germination of oats, rye, lupins and pasture mix out in the vineyards. Astute viticulturists have already completed soil samples and analysed to determine the soil mineral wealth for the cover crop and future vine requirements. Where necessary we have made some applications of the correct fertilizer to improve availability within the soil to the plants. Importantly, the cover crops that are grown through this winter and spring will eventually mulch in the soil and become the potential nutrition for vines and future cover crops… all part of the nutrient cycle.

Many growers now also use imported composts and mulches to help build soil nutrition and health in the vineyards. We can’t underestimate the value of building soil organic carbon in soil that eventually also introduce organic compounds such as humic and fulvic acid, these compounds benefit soil structure, moisture holding capacity and stimulate plant health. In most soil that has good levels of organic matter we will also have a adequate supply of nitrogen and this can be in the form of amino acids and protein, these compounds are plant available and the vines do well. The determination of soil nitrogen can be very complex and we tend towards looking at the total nitrogen in the soil as a guide. We do take into account the carbon to nitrogen ratio as an indication of available nitrogen to plants. Ideally we look for 15 parts carbon to 1 part of nitrogen as being correct and in balance. Soils that have a carbon to nitrogen ratio that favors nitrogen will be adequate for vine growth… but if there is more carbon in the ratio than nitrogen, then a fertilizer application containing nitrogen may be made to allow nitrogen for plant health. The total soil health has far reaching benefits in reducing chemical input and producing fruit of the highest quality for winemaking.

Recent rainfall has also been a perfect time to apply some selected microbiology to the soil. Microbe technology has come of age in modern viticulture and this know-how incorporates strains of beneficial bacteria, fungi and Mycorrhiza that improve soil health and interact with plants to improve plant health and performance. These microbes are generally supplied in freeze dried powder form and include nutrients that promote multiplication and establishment of cells in the soil or when brewed (similar to brewing beer or making wine). We generally brew the microbes for 24 hours to increase the number of cells and then dilute with fresh water and apply to the soil through a drencher bar in the early morning, evening or at night. It’s even better to apply these when there is rainfall occurring, so that contact into the soil is made. Where we have applied these microbes we can see an improvement in seed germination, seedling growth and plant survival. There are also complex symbiotic relationships between Mycorrhiza and grapevine roots that provide benefits to the vines with mineral uptake and general plant health. With careful management and the increase in soil organic matter, it is possible to establish and maintain effective populations of the desired “bugs” in the soil year after year. The benefit is in plant health and eventual wine quality.

With the soils in good shape and cover crops growing it is then time to turn attention to pruning. Time to break out the pruning shears, sharpen the blades and load up the i-pod with some music and podcasts for the next couple of months listening pleasure!

Pruning is the focus within Margaret River vineyards now and will continue into August until budburst occurs. We can see individuals and teams out in the cold and rain toiling away. Importantly, pruning sets the vines crop for the coming vintage and much reflection on the success of the previous growing period and wine quality as well as consideration for future crop requirements will be managed…. and then the cuts made.

Happy pruning everyone!

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Upcoming Margaret River events July – December 2011

Cullen Winery celebrates 40 years.

Every Monday: Karaoke at Settlers Margaret River
Every Tuesday: Ransack the Cellar at Must Margaret River
Every Wednesday: Acoustic Open Mic Night – Settlers Tavern (raises money for the Margaret River Primary School Band)
Every Friday: Friday Fizz – Must Margaret River
Every Sunday: Lounge on the Lawn at Palandri – transport from Margaret River on the Chauffeur Bus

1 July 2011: Degustation Dinner at Laurance of Margaret River
1 July 2011: Ben Merito Band – Settlers Margaret River
2 July 2011: Edwards Barrel Room Sale
2 July 2011: Arts Margaret River presents The Man The Sea Saw – Cultural Centre
2 July 2011: Chase the Sun plus: Cass Eager plus: Claude Hay – Settlers Margaret River
9 July 2011: Clare Bowditch – Settlers Margaret River
16 July 2011: WSET Level 1 Course – Margaret River Educational Campus
16 July 2011: A Night in New Orleans New Release Dinner at Saracen Estates
16 July 2011: Jebediah – Settlers Margaret River
22 July 2011: Skipping Girl Vinegar – Settlers Margaret River
22 – 24 July 2011: Cullen Wines celebrates 40 years!
23 July 2011: Fresh is Best Cooking Class – Cape Lodge
30 July 2011: Cabernet & Comedy with Peter Rowsthorn & Russell Woolf – Aravina Estate
31 July 2011: Capes Long Lunch Northern Region
15 – 18 August 2011: WSET Level 2 Course – Margaret River Educational Campus
20 August 2011: Light the Night for Breast Cancer – Cape Leeuwin and Cape Naturaliste Lighthouses
24 – 28 August 2011: CinéfestOZ Film Festival – Busselton
27 August 2011: Fresh is Best Cooking Class – Cape Lodge
27 August 2011: Arts Margaret River presents Often I Find That I Am Naked – Cultural Centre
28 August 2011: Capes Long Lunch Southern Region
10 September 2011: The Herd – Settlers Margaret River
20 September 2011: Arts Margaret River presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Cultural Centre
24 September 2011: Fresh is Best Cooking Class – Cape Lodge
30 September 2011: Tijuana Cartel – Settlers Margaret River
1 October 2011: Tijuana Cartel – Settlers Margaret River
8 October 2011: Howard Park Wines International Pinot Noir Tasting & Lunch
15 October 2011: Cullen Wines Annual International Chardonnay Tasting
16-24 October 2011:Margaret River Cycle Trek http://www.margaretrivercycletrek.com.au/
20 – 23 October 2011: Cape to Cape MTB – Margaret River Wine Region
25 October 2011: Arts Margaret River presents The Sum of Us – Cultural Centre
20 November 2011: Cullen Wines Annual Indian Indulgence Lunch
22 – 25 November 2011: Margaret River Wine Show
29 November 2011: Capes Art Market – Happs Vineyard & Pottery
3 or 4 March 2012: Sandalford Concert
30 April-6 May 2012: Arts Margaret River Readers & Writers Festival 2012

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For nature enthusiasts, witnessing the annual Humpback whale migration is a magnificent site. Wildlife officers have already received reports of whale sightings this year, across the Western Australian coast, from Rottnest Island to as far north as the Kimberley.

The majestic mammals annually embark on a staggering 13,000 kilometre round-trip as they migrate from Antarctica to breeding grounds in warmer waters off northern Western Australia between May and December each year. One of the longest migrations of any mammal on Earth, it is subsequently one of the longest whale watching seasons on Earth. The west coast Humpback population is estimated at more than 30,000, so whale watchers have a good chance of getting a glimpse of them.

Humpback Whale migrating up the Western Australian coast.

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If you're planning a trip to Augusta, then visiting in early June could prove the ideal option as Humpback and Southern Right whales are often seen frolicking in Flinders Bay as they make their journey northwards, before returning south to the cold seas to grow and mature in early August. In fact, these gentle giants are quite a curious bunch; it is not uncommon for them to approach charter vessels and swim a mere few metres away from them, which makes for exhilarating viewing!

From July to October, King George Sound in Albany provides optimum viewing for Humpback and Southern Right whales, as they typically mate and calve off the south coast. If you head north to Kalbarri between June and November, then you are likely to witness the migration of Humpback whales, particularly if you make your way to prime vantage points such as Natural Bridge, Eagle Gorge and Red Bluff. Further north, between June and November, Humpback whales can be seen migrating northwards along the coast to shelter in Camden Sound on the Kimberley coast, as well as Pender Bay and the sheltered waters directly off Broome's coast, where females give birth and suckle their young.

In Western Australia you're most likely to spot a Humpback, Southern Right or Blue whale on a whale watching tour. The best time to observe these serene mammals is at midday, when the sun is directly overhead. There is an opportunity for whale spotting on both the Best of the Best Wine Tour and the Discovery Tour. We regularly spot whales from our exclusive viewpoint atop the spectacular WIlyabrup Cliffs.

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by Bruce Pearce

Cabernet Sauvignon at Fraser Gallop Estate

Here we are out in the vineyard, the second week in March… Sunshine, warmth, suntanned and target harvesting ripened reds as quickly as the wineries can go. Honestly, through my 20 vintages in Margaret River I have never seen fruit mature so quickly. We are in the thick of vintage and two weeks ahead of typical harvest dates. Our time has been spent expediting harvest to take best advantage of parcels of perfectly ripened grapes. Margaret River, sunny one day….. Perfect the next…. How true!

Out in the vineyard with the winemakers, that’s the best place for me right now, tasting grapes and programming the harvest (By the way, I’m tapping away creating this note in between vineyards and phone calls while sipping a well earned coffee… drive on Peter we have more grapes to taste!). The past month has been a sprint! With all the white varieties harvested and safely bubbling away in tank we moved straight into reds harvest. The traditional flow of red varieties into the winery isn’t the norm this year and we have Cabernet Sauvignon being harvested before usual earlier varieties such as Malbec, Shiraz and Merlot. The heat load that we have experienced in the past month is possibly one reason for this change and certainly the size and health of some of the vine canopies in relationship to the crop load does support a positive variation in rate of maturity. We know that a large canopy and a small crop will result in rapidly increasing sugar maturity; the canopy is like a solar panel in sugar production. Some of the Cabernet vines do have smaller crops this year, a result of rainfall and cold weather during flowering. I’m figuring that more canopy and a reduced amount of crop is probably why some of the Cabernet has matured earlier?

We can be certain that the quality of wine produced out of Margaret River this year will be exceptional. We are taking care to pick the ripest fruit. Most importantly, as we lead into harvest we frequently taste grapes on the vine and evaluate for the green, herbal, minty and astringent characters that indicate that the fruit is unripe; this unripe fruit simply needs more time to mature. In time and when the green fruit characters are gone, we can look for the free colour extraction from skins and then taste varietal flavour intensity and sweetness of the pulp as we determine that the fruit is ripe and suitable for harvest. If the fruit is ripe and sound, we can then decide if some “hang time” is possible to further increase the quality attributes of the fruit. This extended period of maturity on the vine can contribute further positive complexities to fruit flavours and outcomes in flavour and aroma nuances such as chocolate, coffee, pepper and violets. There are always risks to be managed and too much “hang time”, particularly if very hot weather occurs, can produce porty, jammy and other funky flavours. Regular vineyard visits, tasting and a great deal of experience results in gaining the very best that the vines have to offer. The pursuit of excellence, to produce the very best that we can and those very individual wines that are nurtured from the vineyard through to the winery is what drives us on and makes Margaret River wine “special”.

The region is harvesting grapes and counting the days down to the Margaret River Wine Region Festival. The festival is a highlight of our production year and lets us showcase the best wines of the Margaret River wine region. The entire endeavour that vintage brings culminates with a festival that lets us unwind a little. Palmer Winery near Dunsborough is the venue this year and I know the weather and the setting will be perfect. Time left to ring a few friends, organize festivities and then bolt out into the vineyard for one last fruit sample. Bring it on! I hope to see you there.

Contributed by Bruce Pearce

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World surfing champion Kelly Slater is heading to Western Australia for the 2011 Telstra Drug Aware Pro Margaret River.

Acting Premier and Tourism Minister Kim Hames said the State Government, through Eventscorp, and Surfing Western Australia had been instrumental in securing Slater’s appearance.

“Kelly Slater is recognised worldwide as the most successful surfing champion in the history of the sport, having secured 10 World Champion titles throughout his career,” Dr Hames said.

Slater is showing no signs of slowing down, defeating WA’s Taj Burrow in yesterday’s final of the Quicksilver Pro on the Gold Coast, the first event of the 2011 tour.

The Acting Premier said the news of Kelly Slater’s participation in the Telstra Drug Aware Pro Margaret River was very exciting for WA.

“Kelly competed in the Margaret River Pro back in the early 1990s at the beginning of his career, so it’s great to have him back now that he is a legend of the sport,” he said.

“With Slater’s entry, this year’s Telstra Drug Aware Pro boasts the strongest field in the event’s history, with 26 of the top 32 men’s surfers expected to compete.

“To have a field of this calibre, headed by Kelly Slater, competing in the Telstra Drug Aware Pro is a major coup for this State.

“It’ll be a major boost for tourism in the Margaret River region during the event, and will increase awareness of Healthway’s Drug Aware message, especially among surfing fans in WA.”

The Telstra Drug Aware Pro will feature other surfing stars such as two times world champion and last year’s number four Mick Fanning, number three Taj Burrow and number five Bede Durbidge.

The women’s competition includes three of the world’s current top five – Tyler Wright, Laura Enever and Chelsea Hedges.

“The 2011 event will be the biggest and the best ever, not only showcasing some of the world’s greatest surfers, but also the biggest prize pool of any surfing event ever held in WA,” Dr Hames said.

The Telstra Drug Aware Pro is the only Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) prime-rated event in Australasia. The pro is a free event, to be held from April 3-10, 2011 at Surfers Point in Prevelly

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Another 50,000kms on the Landrover Discovery 3. That makes it 150,000km in three years; and it has certainly had a work out.

I’ve smashed my way through another set of tyres, air compressor, windscreen, door handle and ripped the roof rack out of the mounts since my last 100,000km review.

All of the damage was self caused and the Landrover itself has just powered on. There have been numerous memorable moments including a car load of seven people, roof rack full of gear, bogged to the axles; thankfully my trusty Maxtrax rescue tracks had us out of trouble fairly quickly. I’ve also had two kangaroos launch themselves in a suicide mission at the front end, pirouetted the car on three wheels and successfully negotiated a heart stopping decline with every bit of Landrover hill descent technology engaged.

This Landrover Discovery 3 is an absolute ripper.

I haven’t had a single mechanical problem since my last review. Remarkable considering the dust, mud, bumps and long distance driving I do on a daily basis. Just recently the car has developed a slight vibration with something out of balance and I just need a few days off to get it into the mechanics to have a look.

I will admit to having great hesitation in buying a Landrover, with many friends telling me they were unreliable. But with the very many international 4WD awards they had won in recent years and the ability to seat 7 people in comfort I took the gamble. And that gamble has paid off with thousands of happy guests impressed with the capability of the car and the experience it delivers.

Looking forward to the release of the Landrover Discovery 5!

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The Cape to Cape Walk Track is one of Australia’s greatest long-distance walk trail located in the far south-west corner of Western Australia, 250 km south of Perth. It meanders along the whole length of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge, starting and finishing at the lighthouses at the tips of Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin. The Track extends over 135 km of coastal scenery, sheltered forests and pristine beaches, and is in close proximity to the caves, vineyards and other features and attractions of the Margaret River Region (allow 7 days of walking).

The present Track is a combination of different types of terrain and surface. It varies from smooth, wide tracks, to narrow rocky paths, to soft sandy beaches and a few rough scrambles.

The Track includes several quite long stretches of accessible beach, allowing opportunities for cooling the feet. Many streams form sandbars in summer but flow through to the sea in winter. The only stream with a formal bridge crossing is Boodjidup Brook.

Access points along its length allow walkers to sample the Track as a series of short walks over some time. Many people actually complete the walk over several months or years as a series of one-day or half-day walks. The goal for some walkers will be to complete the whole Track at once, but for many, enjoying a short walk now and again is feasible.

Handy Hints

• You don’t have to do the whole thing. It is actually quite gruelling in parts so I generally recommend doing a 2-3 day section
• Walk south to north to ensure not walking into the wind
• Purchase Jane Scott’s excellent CTC guidebook http://www.capetocapetrack.com.au/ An ESSENTIAL purchase
• Think about doing a food and wine cache/drop somewhere along the walk. Eg Willyabrup cliffs. Make sure it is Possum proof
• Don’t rely on water tanks as they are often empty. Use town sites for re-filling
• Stop, look up and take in the view. Don’t rush. This is some of the cleanest purest air and landscape you are ever likely you experience
• Use Margaret River Designated Drivers as shuttle transport if using own car. Ph 0458 217 522 or email designated_drivers@live.com.au
• Hitchhiking on Caves Rd can be an easy way of returning to accommodation or vehicle at day end. This mode of transport has inherent risk and requires good judgement as you may end up drunk at the house of local winemaker
• Margaret River IGA make great meat/salad rolls for day hikes
• Book a Discovery Tour to get the most out of your experience www.margaretriverdiscovery.com.au 

 

Cape to Cape Track marking

Square pine posts mark the way roughly every 100–200 m, each post bearing the yellow and white Track logo. Larger wooden signs usually show the way off beaches. But is essential to use a copy of Jane Scott’s excellent publication “Cape to Cape Track Guidebook”. Contact Jane on info@capetocapetrack.com.au

Climate

The climate along the Capes is not extreme, having a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Summer temperatures only occasionally reach the high 30s. This southwest corner – and Cape Leeuwin is the first part of the Australian mainland to feel the force of the Roaring Forties or winter gales that whip across the southern Indian Ocean. The minimum temperature is always above 0°C. It is generally considered best to walk in a South to North direction to avoid walking into the prevailing wind.

Camping

There are four low-key campsites for walkers wishing to camp out along the Track. These, together with existing campgrounds and caravan parks, provide places to camp roughly a day’s walk apart along the length of the Track. Each of the Track campsites has a bush toilet, a rainwater-tank filled from the toilet roof, a picnic-table, and seats. There are no shelters and walkers need to carry their own tents. There are no fees for using the campsites. Two other National Park campgrounds have toilets and fireplaces where camping fees are payable.

The Track passes through four settlements, Yallingup, Gracetown, Prevelly, and Hamelin Bay.

There is also a campsite planned for the Trigg Rd area in 2011.

Fire restrictions apply as this is amongst the highest rated fire risk areas in Western Australia.  Carry a fuel stove and do not light campfires outside of the designated National Park campgrounds.

Water

The quality of water is highly variable, with creeks generally flowing from vineyards and farmland. All drinking water, except that from town taps should be treated. Don’t rely on streams because they dry up in summer.

In summer, walkers should carry a minimum of 3 litres of water for a day’s walking, and more if camping.

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Please note these tips are just handy hints and in no way represent official advice. 

Hiking the Cape to Cape Track in Spring

You will need to use your own initiative and good judgement to get the most out of your Cape to Cape Track experience.

Regards

Sean Blocksidge

www.margaretriverdiscovery.com.au

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JAMES Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion 2011 has been released and it is the only essential reference work on this country’s wine for both the industry and consumers. Once again, the tiny WA wine industry, about 4 per cent of Australia’s grape crush, has fared extraordinarily well.

WA barely rates a mention among the James’ ‘best of the best’ for the Other White Wine, Sparkling Wine, Rose, Shiraz, Shiraz Viognier and the Rhone blend categories, but is clearly the dominant state in all of the other major varieties.

Riesling

WA’s results are extraordinary with the highest-pointed wine (the 2009 Larry Cherubino Riesling) and seven of the highest rated 30 of this variety (23 per cent).

Chardonnay

WA gained two of the seven equal highest pointed wines (the Brookland Valley 2009 and the Cullen Kevin John 2007 releases) and 15 of the 51 highest pointed chardonnays (29 per cent).

Sauvignon Blanc

WA gained two of the top six rated sauvignon blancs (Leeuwin Estate and Larry Cherubino, both from 2009) and 15 of the most highly pointed 54 of this variety (28 per cent).

Sauvignon Semillon blends

In discussing ‘monopolies’, James states that Margaret River has a “vice-like grip on Sauvignon Semillon blends.” WA provides the top two wines: the 2009 Cullen Vineyard and the 2007 Suckfizzle SBS releases, which were also his top two producers for this style last year and eight out of the top nine (89 per cent).

Cabernet Sauvignon

WA gained one of the two highest pointed wines for this variety (Hardy’s Thomas Hardy 2004 –grown, made and bottled by Houghton Wines) and 10 of the top 24 wines (42 per cent). The 10 Margaret River wines in this group once again confirm this area’s dominance over the Coonawarra region’s six.

Other Bordeaux red blends and varietals

Cullen’s Diana Madeline Cabernet Merlot 2007 is the highest pointed wine and WA gained 16 of the 34 highest rated wines (47 per cent!).

Thought provokingly, the eastern states’ great cabernet hope, Coonawarra, claimed two of these spots, both for cabernet shiraz blends and Margaret River gained 13 with at least 10 being predominantly cabernet merlot blends.

 These results are consistent with past editions and can be added to the results from James’ Top 100 in The Weekend Australian Colour Magazine, 2011 (annually Australia’s single most influential wine column) that rates the west as having five of the 20 best in each of the under $20 red and under $20 white wine categories (25 per cent) and nine of the top 30 reds listed in the above $20 red category (30 per cent). 

These highly publicised and influential perspectives and the impact that they have on consumers state that James Halliday is the greatest friend, at the national or international level, that the WA wine industry has ever had. The James Halliday Australian Wine Companion 2011 (Hardie Grant Books) is on sale at $35 and James’ subscription website is at www.winecompanion.com.au

comments by John Jens from InMyCommunity

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The Margaret River Discovery Co, appears on face value to be a one man band, but the reality is so many people have contributed to the success.

If I many indulge a few personal paragraphs to recognise and thank those people and businesses providing so much guidance and help.

Western Australian Guide of the Year 2010 - Sean Blocksidge FACET GOLDEN GUIDE

It has, to say the least, been a rollercoaster ride, launching at the end of the tourist season and the start of a global financial crisis. Not exactly brilliant timing. Yet three years on not even my best case scenario business plan projected the level of success or more importantly, the amount of fun or the amazing people I would experience on a daily basis.

None if this would have been possible without Drew Bernhardt from Cape Lodge highlighting the opportunity for a gourmet eco touring business in Margaret River. And his subsequent support.

The biggest thanks goes to my partner Erin. For more help, provided in so many ways, than can be captured in a sentence.

Thank you also Neil Taylor from DEC for assistance in gaining access approvals to some very special locations in the Leeuwin Naturaliste National Park, Billy Webb from the Wardan Aboriginal Centre for his insights into Noongar history and culture, Jane Scott for rambles through the forest, the team at the Margaret River Visitor Centre for their belief and support, the Cape Catchment Council and John Alferink from the Margaret River Historical Society for clearing a defined path through fact and fiction.

Thank you Christian Fletcher for embracing win win. To Chris Mills, Rebecca Steele, Donna McClelland and Donna Powell for your design and photographic skills. And web gurus Simon and Michael from Echidna WebDesign and guru of gurus Paul Ballardin for his SEO advice.

And a huge cheers to Robert Dewar and Julie Royle from Cape Mentelle and all the Edwards team for your support with the Best of the Best Wine Tour. Extra special thanks to Nigel Gallop, Melissa Bull and especially Clive Otto and Kate Morgan at Fraser Gallop Estate for being genuine, down to earth and so real in making our behind the scenes experiences so amazing for my guests. And all the Blue Ginger staff for sensational lunches and the Sea Gardens crew for some of the best coffee in Margaret River.

And big high fives and hugs to all the front desk staff, hotel managers, tourism leaders and journalists that have positively and enthusiastically recommended the tour. I absolutely positively would have gone down the financial gurgler without your support.

Talking money, I would alo like to acknowledge Brian and Sheree from Jones Middleton Accountants. And Mum and Dad for coming to the financial rescue a few times and more importantly for not telling me to go back and get a real job.

I also can’t forget the dolphins, eagles, whales, kangaroos, cockatoos, lizards and snakes whose unplanned yet consistent appearances continue to enrich the touring experience of MRDC guests. Extra special thanks to the Dugite snake who slithered through the legs of a guest and didn’t bite them.

And lastly and most importantly the biggest cheers goes to all the amazing guests who decided to take a chance a do something a bit different from the standard winery tour. To you, a most sincere and heartfelt thank you.

Here’s to another successful year of showcasing the very best of the Margaret River …… the stuff that most visitors to the region will completely miss.

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There is so much to do in Margaret River you will need at least two days, if not three, better still a full week!

I recommend the Margaret River Discovery Tour or Best of the Best Wine Tour early in your stay so you can develop a real feel for the region. And obtain some local advice on making the most of your holiday.

Top Ten List of things to do in Margaret River

1. Experience a long lunch at a leading winery restaurant

2. Watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean (and breathe some of the cleanest purest air on the planet).

3. Canoe the traquil Margaret River

4. Go off road exploring in the Leeuwin Naturaliste National Park and drive through the majestic Boranup Forest

5. Walk a section of the Cape to Cape Track

6. Taste some of Australia’s best Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon

7. Visit the art and craft galleries of the region

8. Encounter the underground wonder of the Caves (Jewel Cave a personal favourite)

9. See where two oceans meet at the Leeuwin Lighthouse, Augusta (and meet WA Tour Guide of the Year – Paul Sofilas)

10. Experience some wellness with a massage, spa treatment or a sweaty yoga session.

The good news is that a Margaret River Discovery Tour includes at least six of the top ten things to do! The Margaret River Discovery Tour and Best of the Best Wine Tour are currently on special at $165 for internet bookings (20% saving). Email sean@margaretriverdiscovery.com.au
6 November 2010: Burning of the Vine Cuttings at Leeuwin Estate
6 November 2010: Evening of Song with Ruby Philogene at Xanadu
7 November 2010: Anaconda Adventure Race – Augusta
13 November 2010: Margaret River Farmers Market – Old Hospital, Tunbridge Street

13 November 2010: Cape Mentelle International Cabernet Tasting
21 November 2010: Annual Indian Indulgence Lunch at Cullen Wines
27 November 2010: Margaret River Farmers Market – Old Hospital, Tunbridge Street

1-31 December 2010 Deborah Zibah – Boranup Gallery Artist of the Month

3 – 5 December 2010: Australian Chamber Orchestra at Vasse Felix
11 December 2010: Margaret River Farmers Market – Old Hospital, Tunbridge Street

18 December 2010: Margaret River Farmers Market – Old Hospital, Tunbridge Street

Michael Buble at Sandalford 2011

 

And dont forget to book now for the big concert events of 2011!
19 & 20 February 2011: Roxy Music at Leeuwin Estate
6 March 2011: Michael Bublé at Sandalford Margaret River 

The Margaret River Discovery Company is available for transfers to these events. Travel in style in a luxury Landrover Discovery that comfortably seats 6 passengers. 

Please give me a call on 04399 100 64 or email sean@margaretriverdiscovery.com.au for a quote.

 

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Following on from the previous blog piece about the quality of Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon, one of my favourite Margaret River wine  producers, Cape Mentelle, just landed the title of Australia’s best Cabernet Sauvignon  in the esteemed Penguin Good Wine Guide.

Editor Nick Stick commented on the 2007 Cape Mentelle Cabernet Sauvignon-

  “Another 2007 from Margaret River that will be remembered as one of the greatest Cape Mentelle cabernets of all time. Power and poise fused with conviction and stunning value when you look around the globe at comparative cabernet quality.

A much-anticipated vintage of this leading Margaret River cabernet, and not an ounce of disappointment. With smells of bright cassis and juniper, fragrant and subtly floral, the cedary spicy oak adds a layer of class to this standout wine.

The palate’s unthinkably poised: perfectly proportioned tannins carry deeply ripe, sweet fruit with impressive power and impeccable grace. Like an angel, this sits right at the top of the tree.”

Cape Mentelle scored a remarkable 97 points for this wine and I am delighted to confirm this wine is included in our very special degustation lunch within the Cape Mentelle barrel room as part of the Margaret River Best of the Best Wine Tour.

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HOW good is WA cabernet sauvignon?

Nobody knows – because none of our official wine bodies collate and notify the wine press of the never-ending series of trophies and great reviews worldwide.

The wineries send out their own press releases without reference to their peers’ successes.

As the industry bodies do not have the resources to publicise these accumulated triumphs, Hyatt Regency Perth has established the Hyatt Cup to promote WA’s cabernet with an annual tasting of the finest cabernets from the Great Southern and Margaret River versus those from Coonawarra.

The Hyatt Cup will be given to the WA region prevailing in the masked annual taste-off.

WA’s international perspectives on this variety come largely from sensationalist headlines: “World greatest cabernet sauvignon… or shiraz… or whatever ” from yet another irrelevant wine show somewhere.

The true perspective on WA cabernet is much more extraordinary than the hype. Hard to believe though it is, WA cabernets fare significantly better internationally than the Australian team did at the Commonwealth Games – or even the women’s swim team!

The figures need final checking, but there are three great international wine shows – all of which have more than 9000 entries each year and hundreds of judges.

In the Red Bordeaux varietal classes against many of the world’s prestigious wine names (cabernet and blends), two of the current reigning trophy winners are from Margaret River, which produces less than one half of a per cent, of 1 per cent, of the world’s wine.

It becomes more astonishing when you realise that two of those trophies came to WA the previous year as well.

WA produced less than 5 per cent of Australia’s cabernet in 2008, yet at the royal shows in Melbourne (2006), Sydney (2007, 2009) and Canberra (our national wine show, 2008) WA gained more than one half of the gold medals given to cabernet and cabernet-dominant wines.

So, how good are WA’s cabernets?

Join the judges at the Hyatt Cup Cabernet Tasting this Thursday,October 21, and compare 20 of WA’s and Australia’s greatest cabernets in two flights.

The first eight wines are from the marvellous 2004 and 2005 vintages and the second flight showcases this State’s superstars from the arguably even better 2008 vintage.

Sumitted by John Jens in www.inmycommunity.com.au

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Here we are out in the vineyard in the middle of spring and enjoying the kindest viticultural weather that I can remember in any year at this stage of vine development.

The vines are responding positively to the extended period of drying and warming soils and are free from the usual cold and windy conditions that can hamper shoot development in spring. Already we see vine shoot growth that is 7 to 14 days ahead of normal timing and an evenness of budbreak and shoot length that will provide the canopy of foliage that is all-important for ripening later in summer. Many shoots are presenting multiple inflorescence (pre flowering) bunches and this indication could be the potential for a bumper crop across all varieties for vintage 2011.

An interesting observation out in the vineyard in spring 2010 is that there is much less water shoot development than has been see in previous years. The term “water shoots” is given to the shoots that grow from latent buds (buds not specifically retained at pruning for fruit). This natural phenomenon is possibly due to the evenness of budbreak of the retained buds and vine growth performance that encourages strong shoot development free from the damage of shoot tips caused by inclement weather. The damage of shoot growing tips can result in the stimulation of latent buds and this is an evolutionary protection response, it makes grapevines very hardy plants. The net result of the current kind weather is the vine supporting the primary shoot growth and not forcing latent buds into production.

The significance of less water shoots this year is in less crowding of shoots in the fruit zone. We generally prune vines to leave 20 to 30 buds per lineal meter of row (that is on a vertical shoot positioned canopy) and then aim for the quality standard of not more than 22 shoots per lineal meter, this is manipulated by the removal of additional shoots. The purpose of regulating shoot density is to encourage airflow and sunlight into and around the fruit and this helps with disease control and also ripening the fruit. The fact shoot density this year appears to be happening naturally in many of our vineyards results in less hand work (we like that!) and importantly is the greatest potential of quality fruit for the coming vintage as a result of natural vine root and canopy balance.

Rapid growth of shoots on vines in early spring can result in much more fruitful buds for next year’s crop. The relationship between root and shoot development and the interaction with plant growth hormones within the vine root system and foliage create bud fruitfulness in the newly forming buds. Simply, when the vineyard environment provides warm and moist soils that are adequately catered for with micro-nutrient and then combined with warm ambient temperature with high light intensity, the promotion of plant growth hormone biosynthesis within the vine encourages bud fruitfulness and flower formation, all important for this vintage and also next year’s crop yield performance.

Rainfall for the period January to October 2010 is almost 200mm less than average and while there is concern with drying soils and a long dry start to spring we can see that the dams are full and the creeks and rivers are still flowing, albeit flows are much less than normal. Many viticulturists are pre-empting the use of some supplementary irrigation at the lead up into flowering to ensure that fruit set occurs in perfect soil moisture. The retention of developing berries free from “shatter” or loss will be due to the vine response to drying soil conditions. Some managers use sophisticated moisture sensing equipment, while others use less complicated methods. Personally, I prefer to use my observation of vine performance, a shovel to dig into the earth and back this up with whatever objective measurement may be useful. It is the skill of the viticulturist in understanding the individual vines response and then managing the opportunity to provide an environment that will produce fruit of the highest quality that is all important. In many of our older vineyards there is no irrigation and it is interesting to note that there is a strong relationship with these vineyards and the high quality fruit that is produced in the Margaret River wine region. Many of the older vineyards never had irrigation at development and were established using techniques that maximized conservation of soil moisture and encouraging root dispersion deep into the soil (we have seen vine roots at least 8 metres down into the clay).

These tough old vines have roots and trunks that, over many years, drought proofed themselves against variations in soil moisture and have a physical ability to produce fruit with exceptional colour, flavour and aroma. Dry-land vineyards will express seasonal weather variation in a positive manner, the end result can be exceptional fruit quality in years where the topsoil tends to be drier in the period between fruit set and veraison (berry softening and colour change) and from what we are seeing out in the vineyards this spring, we are looking at the potential for one of the truly great vintages in 2011.

contributed by Bruce Pearce