Vasse Felix
Established in 1967, Vasse Felix holds the distinction of being the founding winery of the Margaret River Wine Region in Western Australia. This prestigious estate has become a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts from around the world.
Location and Climate
Vasse Felix is situated in Cowaramup, Western Australia, approximately 3 hours south of Perth. The winery benefits from Margaret River's unique Mediterranean climate and maritime influence, combined with ancient gravel-loam soils. This exceptional terroir creates ideal conditions for growing premium Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay grapes.
Winemaking Philosophy
Under the guidance of Chief Winemaker Virginia Willcock, Vasse Felix has maintained its commitment to producing high-quality wines that showcase the region's distinctive characteristics. The winery focuses primarily on Margaret River's key varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. Other varietals include Shiraz, Semillon, and Sauvignon Blanc.
Wine Collections
Vasse Felix offers several tiers of wines:
Icon Collection: Featuring the Tom Cullity (a Cabernet blend) and Heytesbury Chardonnay
Premier Collection: High-quality wines showcasing regional typicity
Filius Collection: Vibrant, earlier-drinking styles
Classic Collection: Approachable, everyday wines
Visitor Experiences
Cellar Door
Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, the Cellar Door offers:
Hosted tastings at the bar
Private tasting experiences
Wine Lounge overlooking the Home Vineyard
Casual dining options with charcuterie and cheese
Restaurant
The award-winning Vasse Felix Restaurant is open daily for lunch from 12 pm to 3 pm. It offers a modern menu that pairs perfectly with the estate's wines, showcasing the best of regional produce. Reservations are highly recommended.
Tours and Experiences
Vasse Felix provides various hosted Estate tour experiences, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Margaret River's wine, food, culture, and history. The "Cape to Vine Day Trip" offers a guided walking tour combined with an in-depth food and wine experience.
Art and Culture
The estate features a wine museum and art gallery, displaying seasonal exhibitions from the celebrated Holmes à Court Collection. This unique combination of wine and art makes Vasse Felix a cultural destination as well as a viticultural one.
Best Time to Visit
While Margaret River is beautiful year-round, summer offers the chance to enjoy the region's pristine beaches. Winter, on the other hand, provides a cozy retreat perfect for enjoying a glass of wine by the fireplace.
Vasse Felix's commitment to quality, rich history, and diverse offerings make it an essential stop for any wine lover visiting Western Australia. From its award-winning wines to its stunning estate and cultural experiences, Vasse Felix truly embodies the spirit of the Margaret River wine region.