Forest Hill Vineyard
Forest Hill Vineyard, located in Western Australia's Great Southern wine region, is a historic and picturesque destination for wine enthusiasts. This family-owned winery offers visitors a unique blend of rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and exceptional cool-climate wines.
History and Heritage
Forest Hill Vineyard holds a significant place in Western Australian wine history as the oldest cool climate vineyard in the Great Southern region. Established in 1965 by the Department of Agriculture as an experimental vineyard, it has since grown into a renowned winery. The first successful plantings in 1966 included one hectare each of Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon, which laid the foundation for the vineyard's future success.
The winery's early vintages, particularly the 1975 Riesling, garnered significant acclaim, winning numerous awards and helping to establish the reputation of the region. In 1996, the Lyons family, with deep roots in Great Southern farming, acquired the vineyards and continues to own and operate Forest Hill today.
Location and Setting
Forest Hill Vineyard offers visitors a unique dual experience:
Vineyards: Located west of Mount Barker, these are the original plantings that produce the grapes for Forest Hill's acclaimed wines.
Cellar Door and Winery: Situated further south in Denmark, this is where visitors can enjoy wine tastings and take in the breathtaking scenery.
The cellar door is nestled beneath the Pepper and Salt restaurant, built into a stone cellar. Visitors are treated to a picturesque setting with a dramatic backdrop of towering Karri trees, creating a truly memorable wine tasting experience.
Wines and Tasting
Forest Hill is renowned for producing exceptional cool-climate wines, with a particular focus on:
Riesling: The winery's Rieslings have consistently won medals and trophies at wine shows across Australia.
Block Series: These wines are sourced from old, dry-grown vineyards, showcasing the terroir of the Great Southern region.
Wine lovers can enjoy tastings in the unique cellar door setting, sampling a range of Forest Hill's acclaimed wines while taking in the stunning surroundings.
Visitor Experience
A visit to Forest Hill Vineyard offers more than just wine tasting:
Fine Dining: The on-site Pepper and Salt restaurant provides gourmet dining options to complement the wines.
Scenic Beauty: The winery's location offers visitors the chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the Great Southern region, including the impressive Karri forests.
Rich History: Wine enthusiasts can explore the story of one of Western Australia's pioneering wineries, from its experimental beginnings to its current status as a respected producer.
Forest Hill Vineyard provides a complete experience for wine lovers, combining high-quality wines, beautiful landscapes, and a rich viticultural heritage. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious novice, a visit to this historic winery promises to be both educational and enjoyable.
