When we think of wine-growing districts in Western Australia, we tend to think of the Margaret River, but I would like to turn your attention to another exceptional wine-growing area within easy reach of Kojonup. A family day out in Kojonup offers more than just scenic beauty; it is also an opportunity to discover the exquisite wines produced in the nearby Frankland River and Broomehill regions.
This area has an ideal climate for viticulture: rich soil, warm ripening days, and cool nights that are gentle enough to prevent damaging frosts. Local winemakers tend their vineyards carefully and harvest at the precise moment to capture those sought-after flavours. While a wide variety of grapes thrive here, the region has earned particular acclaim for its Shiraz and Riesling, though you will also find outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc.
The Frankland River area was the birthplace of the Great Southern wine region and has a long pedigree of fabulous flavours. At just under three hours from Perth and only two hours from Bunbury, it is a day trip away from the major centres. Wines from this region tend to have an elegant but intense flavour, and the richness of the district can be measured by its wine-show success.
The wineries at a glance
Five boutique cellar doors, all reachable from a base in Kojonup. The closest are an easy drive down the Albany Highway; the furthest is a proper afternoon out for the dedicated.
| Winery | Where | Known for |
|---|---|---|
| Towerhill Estate | Mount Barker, on the Albany Highway | Cabernet Merlot, award-winning Rieslings |
| Trevelen Farm | Cranbrook, about 50 km south | Riesling; James Halliday 5 star every year since 2007 |
| Alkoomi Wines | Frankland River, about 60 km | Shiraz, Riesling; a 5 Red Star winery |
| Frankland Estate | Frankland | Riesling, Shiraz, sustainable growing |
| Ferngrove Wines | Frankland River | Shiraz, Riesling, Chardonnay |
Towerhill Estate
Towerhill Estate is on the Albany Highway at Mount Barker, in the heart of the Great Southern. The estate is renowned for its Cabernet Merlot: a vibrant, full-bodied red with an earthy richness and aromas of cigar box and blackcurrant, at its best after cellaring. Towerhill also produces a lovely Cabernet Sauvignon.
For those who prefer whites with a sweet, fruity or citrus finish, the award-winning range of Rieslings is the drawcard, alongside a Chardonnay and a Classic White. Towerhill has a policy of only releasing wine that is mature and full of flavour, which suits a discerning palate. Towerhill Estate can be reached on 08 9831 0693 or via their website at towerhillwine.com.au.
Trevelen Farm
Trevelen Farm is 50 km south of Kojonup, just off the Albany Highway on Weir Road at Cranbrook. They also have wholesale operations in Perth and Melbourne, and their wines are available internationally in China, Japan and the USA. If you would like to taste award-winning wines that are making an impact both at home and overseas, this is the place.
Trevelen Farm has achieved the James Halliday 5 star rating every year since 2007, and their wines have collected accolades and medals at the highest levels. They are especially proud of their Riesling vintages. Contact Trevelen Farm on 0418 361 052 to check cellar-door times or to arrange an appointment.
Alkoomi Wines
Alkoomi Wines is 60 km from Kojonup on Wingebellup Road at Frankland River. This is one of the largest family-owned vineyards in Western Australia, currently run by the fourth generation to live and work the land, with 105 hectares of vines plus 14 hectares of olive trees under cultivation. Both the wine and the olive oil can be purchased through the cellar door, which is open daily from 10am to 4.30pm (best to check public-holiday hours). They also have a cellar door in Albany for your tasting convenience.
Alkoomi's wines span three ranges. The Icon Range includes Shiraz, Semillon and Chardonnay; the Black Label Range is the premium offering, with Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz Viognier and Riesling that can be enjoyed young; and the White Label Range covers medium-bodied wines, the reds of which will cellar for several more years. Alkoomi has been rated a 5 Red Star winery in the James Halliday Wine Companion.
Frankland Estate
Frankland Estate is on the Frankland Road in Frankland, a serene setting made for settling back and forgetting a busy schedule. Here you can taste wines from people who believe in sustainable practices, and in the idea that the best-tasting wines come from the best-cared-for soil. The estate creates wines of great intensity and depth of flavour.
Frankland Estate has an impressive selection of mature cellared wines, with small-batch releases and vintages going back years that are in their prime. They supply Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon for lovers of reds, and a variety of Rieslings and Chardonnay for lovers of white. The estate is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm and on weekends by appointment. Frankland Estate can be contacted on 08 9855 1544 to arrange your visit.
Ferngrove Wines
Ferngrove Winery and cellar door are on Ferngrove Road in Frankland River, a great area for making truly memorable wines. With a deep understanding of, and care for, not only the vines but all of the surrounding land, Ferngrove stands out for its harmony with the country around it. That care shows in the quality of the wines and the intense flavours they achieve. Ferngrove has earned the James Halliday 5 Star Winery rating for 12 consecutive years in the Wine Companion.
Ferngrove produces reds including Malbec, Merlot and Shiraz, with a generous palate, abundant flavour and, in some cases, a hint of spice. The whites are led by Riesling, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, showing freshness, elegance and a lovely citrus palate. The cellar door is open for tasting Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm. Come and visit, and be pleasantly surprised by the setting and the wines made here.
Planning your cellar-door tour
A little planning turns a scattered list of wineries into an easy day. A few things worth knowing before you set out:
- Cellar-door hours vary, and some of the smaller estates open by appointment, so a quick phone call the day before saves a wasted drive.
- The wineries spread south and west of Kojonup along the Albany Highway toward Mount Barker and out to Frankland River, so it pays to group your visits by direction rather than doubling back.
- Nominate a designated driver, or plan an overnight stay so nobody has to watch the clock.
- Spring and autumn are the gentlest times to tour the Great Southern; our attractions page covers what else to see in and around town while you are here.
Where to stay for a wine weekend
To make a boutique-winery weekend seamless, base yourself in Kojonup so the cellar doors are an easy drive out and back. Cornwall House Accommodation sits at 72 Albany Highway in the heart of town, blending country charm with modern comfort. Our 12 air-conditioned rooms (queen, twin and family configurations) each have an ensuite, free WiFi, tea and coffee making facilities, microwave and refrigerator, with free onsite parking and a shared camp kitchen for guests. Contactless check-in from 2pm means a long afternoon among the vines never leaves you locked out.
If you are timing a trip around the cellar doors, book your room ahead and travel easy. See our accommodation page for room details and what is included.
