Geographe Wine Region:
A Hidden Gem in Western Australia
Nestled in the southwest coast of Western Australia, around 150 kilometres from Perth the Geographe Wine Region is a hidden gem that beckons wine enthusiasts with its rich viticultural heritage, diverse terroirs, and exceptional wines. It takes its name after the Geographe Bay which was named by French explorer Baudin, who first mapped the coastline with his two ships, the Geographe and the Naturaliste.
Home to 57 growers, 26 producers and 36 different grape varieties, Geographe is the most diverse wine region in Western Australia. You can reach the region in under two hours by road from Perth, starting with Harvey in the north, through to Bunbury, Capel and Busselton and eastwards to include Donnybrook and Ferguson Valley. JarrahWood Estate can be found in Brookhampton, just 8 minutes away from Donnybrook.
The Geographe Wine Region is celebrated for its diversity in both geography and grape cultivation. The region encompasses a mix of terrains, from coastal plains to elevated slopes. This variability provides winemakers with an extraordinary palette of conditions, enabling the production of wines with distinctive profiles. The region also benefits from a temperate Mediterranean-like climate, characterised by warm summers and cool, wet winters. The proximity to the Indian Ocean ensures consistent maritime influences, which moderate temperatures and play a crucial role in the slow ripening of grapes. This slow ripening process allows the fruit to develop complex flavours and balanced acidity, which are hallmarks of Geographe wines.
A RICH VARIETY OF WINES
Geographe is renowned for its versatility in wine production, with vineyards cultivating a wide range of grape varieties. While classic varietals such as Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay dominate, the region is also gaining recognition for emerging varieties like Grenache, Tempranillo, Viognier, and Sangiovese. Each varietal reflects the region’s unique terroir, delivering wines with exceptional depth, character, and elegance.
One of the defining features of Geographe wines is their ability to balance intensity with refinement. The reds, particularly Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, often exhibit bold flavours of ripe berries and subtle spice, complemented by smooth tannins. The whites, such as Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, are celebrated for their crispness, vibrant fruit notes, and refreshing finish. This versatility makes the region a haven for those seeking variety and quality in their wine journey.
BROOKHAMPTON
Brookhampton was one of the first homesteads in the district and is associated with James Guy Thompson, and, by his two marriages, the Roe and Bussell families. Thomson named Brookhampton after a family home in England. He was the first permanent settler in the district that took its name from his farm and pastoral station. For many years his homestead was the social centre of the district. And the three remaining buildings of the homestead are very good examples of small Victorian Georgian buildings and the construction methods using handmade bricks fired on site illustrate the resourceful building techniques of the early settlers.
In 2012-13, ‘Brookhampton’ continued in the Thomson family under Jack Thomson’s grandson, John Thomson, who cares for the cottages and the schoolroom that survive. However, they are no longer habitable, and he occupies the late twentieth century house. Brookhampton's legacy continues to reflect the pioneering spirit and architectural heritage of the region.
Brookhampton is now home to many family-owned wineries, including JarrahWood Estate, where generations of winemakers pass down their expertise and passion for the craft. This deep-rooted respect for the land and its produce lies at the core of Brookhampton’s winemaking identity. These wineries often preserve time-honoured methods, producing wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the region's terroir.
Brookhampton, with its rich heritage and breathtaking surroundings, is a jewel of the Geographe Wine Region. It invites wine lovers and curious travellers alike to experience its story, savour its flavours, and relish its beauty.
A DESTINATION WORTH DISCOVERING
While the wines are undeniably the highlight, Brookhampton and the rest of Geographe Wine Region has much more to offer. The area is a treasure trove of natural beauty, dotted with pristine beaches, lush forests, and charming towns. Visitors can enjoy bushwalking in the Wellington National Park or relax by the serene waters of Geographe Bay. For those seeking culinary delights, the region boasts a growing food scene, with restaurants, craft breweries and cafes serving up fresh local produce often paired with regional wines.
As the world of wine continues to evolve, the Geographe Wine Region remains a steadfast reminder of the beauty of craftsmanship and the richness of regional diversity. It is, without a doubt, a destination worth adding to the bucket list of any wine lover.
