Porongurup, Western Australia

The stunning sub-region of Porongurup is gaining traction for its production of exemplary wines. 

The Porongurup region may be small, but it offers a range of quality grapes and wines that have been consistently awarded over the years. The Mediterranean and long ripening season of the region, lying just east of Mount Barker, produces exceptional quality fruit with intense flavours. Porongurup is about four and a half hours’ drive from Perth, and visitors can expect to taste styles including shiraz, cabernet sauvignon and pinot noir, but its riesling is a particular hero.  

One of the key features of the region is the Porongurup National Park for incredible walks summiting the granite boulders of Castle Rock and the Granite Skywalk. Both provide incredible outlooks, plus barbecue and picnic areas for post-hike rewards. 

James Halliday on Porongurup

While this subregion locks into that of Mount Barker on its west, and covers the same latitude range, the feel of Porongurup is quite different. Great stands of lowering eucalypt forest and a massive series of rounded granite knobs in one part give way to sweeping views out over the Stirlings towards Esperance in another.

It was the scene of relatively early viticultural activity after the Olmo and Gladstones reports; two hectares of Cabernet Sauvignon were planted at the Bolyanup Vineyard in 1974; others followed in the 1970s, more in the 1980s (Castle Rock in 1983), and yet more in the 1990s.