6 Albany wineries that wine-lovers will adore

The gem of Western Australia’s south coast

Albany – known for its dramatic coastline, secluded beaches, pristine nature reserves and rich history – is one of the most popular getaway destinations in Western Australia. With the drive from Perth to Albany taking around 4.5 hours, a trip to the south coast is quick and painless, and offers city-dwellers a real sense of escape from everyday life.

The charming harbour city found on the southern coast of WA not only oozes untamed nature and boasts a striking coastline, but it is also home to some awesome options for wining and dining. Cosy pubs and tasty bakeries are easily come by, whilst a number of fine-dining restaurants make for chic epicurean experiences.

A convincing reason to visit Albany

Interestingly, Albany and its surroundings also contain a handful of wonderful wineries. Unlike its famous neighbour – Margaret River – which overflows with wine, the south coast has a more intimate wine scene and is kept a little under the radar. Having said that, Albany’s modest selection of wine says nothing about its quality. Award winning wineries, mostly those more intimate and boutique in style produce excellent wine.

During your next Weekend Escape to Western Australia’s south coast, reserve a day for a wine tour and visit a selection of wineries in Albany. We have done the hard work for you. Below you will find a hand-picked selection of charming Albany wineries – those big, small, famous and off the beaten track – which offer a true depiction of what the wine of the south truly offers.

1. Alkoomi Wines 

Originally a mixed grain and livestock farm, Alkoomi – meaning “a place we chose” in the local Aboriginal language – is a gorgeously rustic winery found just outside the small town of Frankland River. However, with a cellar store in Albany, guests hoping to sample the delectable wines have a choice regarding which spot to visit. Alkoomi Wines is run by the Hallett family who represent the third and fourth generations to run, live and work on the gorgeous property. Wines at Alkoomi are hand crafted and whilst there is a broad selection to choose from, excellent quality and affordability are the common denominators. Admirably, Alkoomi Wines has recently taken on the challenge of reducing its carbon footprint, with solar panels installed and various other adaptations made. Head here to support a family winery with a commendable vision.

2. Montgomery Hill Winery 

Established by brothers Murray and Iain Montgomery, Montgomery Hill Winery is a rural and very peaceful winery sat upon a north facing slope on the Kalgan River. Boasting premium wine production and excellent quality, Montgomery Hill Winery is a quaint family winery worth a visit. Currently, the Albany winery is in the process of redeveloping its cellar door, which is promised to offer some of the best views in the south of WA. Shifting towards more of a tavern concept, the new establishment will offer not only delicious wines but locally sourced food and beers too.

3. Poachers Ridge Vineyard 

Fairly new in comparison to some of the other local Albany wineries, Poachers Ridge Vineyard is tucked away  between luscious green hills on the outskirts of tiny Narrikup. Being mistaken for sheep rustlers when initially inspecting the land here, Alex and Janet Taylor humorously chose their winery’s name. The ethos at Poachers Ridge Vineyard is as follows: “producing hand-crafted wines driven by the land, the seasons and a dedication to honest winemaking traditions”. Step through the door of the winery’s cellar and be greeted by a cosy room decorated with rustic furniture and a warm fire in winter. During your tasting here, grab a cheese board and enjoy some tasty local produce.

4. Wignalls Wines

At Wignalls Wines, sip on award winning reds and whites surrounded by gorgeous countryside views. The friendly winery was established just outside of Albany in 1982 by Dr Bill Wignall who considered the land to be ideal for the famous Burgundian grape varieties, for example Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Of course, he was right, and Wignall Wines has since won a number of awards for its wines. Today, a rustic cellar door renovated from an abandoned hay shed offers guests an intimate winery experience. If you’re not convinced, they cellar door was voted one of the best 25 in Australia in 2004.

5. Forest Hill Winery 

Planting numerous native trees in the area and practicing dry-farming, Forest Hill Winery takes pride in regenerating the land, rather than taking from it. The winery – family owned and run – expresses the regional and varietal characteristics in its wines. Discover a number of wonderful reds and whites here and pop into the cellar door to taste your favourites. Set upon a hill and surrounded by lofty gums, this winery is one not to be missed.

6. Oranje Tractor Wines 

One of the most popular wineries in Albany, Orange Tractor Wines is a picturesque winery perched on the outskirts of Albany. Set on a modest eighth acres near the rocky coast, the vineyard was planted in 1998 with help from friends and family. Orange Tractor uses organic principles and therefore avoids chemicals, rather relying on natural systems. Pop by and sample five wines, paired with local cheese and other wonderfully fresh products from the region.

Book your stay in Albany

If intimate cellar doors with friendly wine-makers, and pristine landscapes dotted with secluded beaches sounds like your idea of a good time, Albany is the escape you’ve been looking for.

Click here for more information regarding things to do in Albany and use our Ultimate Guide to plan your perfect trip.

Alternatively, if you’re only looking for accommodation, take a look at our recommendation.