Willow Bridge Estate
Willow Bridge Estate is a family-owned winery nestled in the picturesque Ferguson Valley, part of Western Australia's Geographe wine region. Located just two hours south of Perth, this hidden gem offers wine enthusiasts a delightful destination for tasting exceptional wines and enjoying stunning views.
Location and Setting
Situated on a 180-hectare hillside property, Willow Bridge Estate boasts a prime location that contributes to its unique terroir. The vineyard is perched high on the western watershed of the Darling Ranges, providing spectacular vistas over the coastal plain and across the waters of Geographe Bay to Cape Naturaliste.
History and Ownership
The estate was established in 1996 when Jeff and Vicki Dewar purchased the property after an extensive search for the ideal vineyard site. Their vision was to produce world-class wines that are both opulent and accessible. The 60-hectare vineyard was planted in 1997, strategically positioned around two hills to match vine varieties with different aspects to the sun.
Vineyard and Varieties
Willow Bridge Estate grows a diverse range of grape varieties, including:
Classic French varieties: Chardonnay, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Shiraz, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon
Additional varieties: Viognier, Tempranillo, and Grenache
The region's phylloxera-free status allows all vines to be planted on their own roots, contributing to the authenticity of the wines produced.
Wine Portfolio
The winery offers an impressive selection of wines, with their Shiraz, Cabernet, and Chardonnay consistently receiving high ratings from the Halliday Wine Companion. Some notable wines include:
Black Dog Shiraz
Coat of Arms Cabernet Sauvignon
G1-10 Chardonnay
Bookends Fumé Sauvignon Blanc Semillon
Dragonfly range (Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc Semillon)
Cellar Door Experience
Opening Hours
Daily from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Wine lovers can enjoy a fun and informative tasting experience at the Willow Bridge Estate Cellar Door. The knowledgeable staff guides visitors through a range of both red and white wines. To ensure personalized attention, it's recommended to book tastings in advance, especially for groups or during peak periods.
Tasting Options
Standard tastings
Private group bookings in the barrel hall (by arrangement)
Accolades and Recognition
Willow Bridge Estate has garnered numerous awards and accolades, including:
5 Red Stars rating from James Halliday Wine Companion
Multiple trophies and medals from the Geographe Wine Show
Gold medals from various Australian wine competitions
Nearby Attractions
The Ferguson Valley offers additional attractions for wine tourists, including:
Wellington National Park
Honeymoon Pool
Mountain bike trails
Munda Biddi MTB trail
Willow Bridge Estate provides an excellent opportunity for wine enthusiasts to explore high-quality Western Australian wines in a stunning setting. With its rich history, diverse wine portfolio, and commitment to producing exceptional wines, it's a must-visit destination for any wine lover traveling through the region.