Margaret River produces more than 60 per cent of WA wine

Margaret River accounted for more than 60 per cent of WA’s 2021 wine harvest, a new report reveals.

The region’s wine grape growers harvested 24,566 tonnes of the crop this year, 61.3 per cent of the state’s 40,074 tonne output.

This mammoth harvest – recorded in Wine Australia’s 2021 vintage report – makes Margaret River the ninth largest wine-producing region in Australia.

Last year, Margaret River placed eighth. But despite falling a spot nationally this year, the region still increased its output by nearly 3000 tonnes.

Australian grape growers harvested 2.03 million tonnes in 2021 – the largest crop on record.

Wine Australia General Manager, Corporate Affairs and Regulation Rachel Triggs described 2021 as a ‘unicorn’ vintage.

“Good fruit set, plenty of water at the right time, lack of heatwaves, low disease pressure, and favourable harvest conditions have resulted in a high-yielding, high quality vintage,” she said.

South Australia collects a whopping 52 per cent of the national “crush,” while WA boasts just a two per cent share.

However, this relatively small slice is still worth $63.51 million.

For Penny Dickeson — estate director of Cape Mentelle wines — the figures confirm what many West Australians already know: Margaret River is the state’s wine-making powerhouse.

“These figures are brilliant,” she said.

“And as impressive as they are, they actually don’t reflect another great aspect of WA-winemaking — the high proportion of premium vintages we produce here.

“WA is home to some of the country’s best wine producers and top brands.

Nationally, the average value per tonne is $701. In Western Australia, it’s $1427.

Ms Dickeson encouraged West Aussies to come and visit Margaret River to taste what the region has to offer.

“WA has a lot to be proud of when it comes to our wine industry,” she said.

Japo Dalli Cani — head wine-maker at the McHenry Hohnen vineyard — described the local wine-making industry as “unique.”

“I have made wine in Europe, and across Australia,” he said.

“But there is nowhere like here. It is a very special region, and a very special community of winemakers.

“The wines reflect the purity of the landscape.”