22 Feb 2017
You're a sommelier of a chewy vino, an expert in le blanc, or you can't say no to a high quality drink. Sip the best of the best in the West.
Lining Perth city is the picture book Swan Valley. Charming colonial villages, Swan River views, and rolling countryside that'll make you whistle. The oldest wine region in Western Australia, its main specialties are of the white variety. The verdelho and chenin blanc are staples. Red enthusiasts, have no fear. Scope out your new favourite shiraz or cabernet at multiple cellar doors. A bouquet that will send you into a tizzy of smells.
While you've probably heard of the Swan Valley before, an essential pilgrimage for any wine drinker visiting Perth, have you heard of the Geographe? A young and exciting region, it encompasses the Ferguson Valley, Donnybrook, Harvey and the Capel River Valley.
The possibilities are overwhelming. Where do you go and what do you try? While there are a number of wineries in the Geographe and Swan Valleys and a range of grape varietals, here are some choice suggestions.
VERDELHO
Crisp and fresh. That's how we would describe this originally Portuguese grape variety. A dry white, the Verdelho is famously produced in the Swan Valley. Pair grilled barramundi or good, old-fashioned fish & chips.
Swan Valley
+ Faber Vineyard
+ Oakover Wines
+ Sandalford Winery
CHENIN BLANC
A versatile grape from France, the chenin blanc are a classic option in this corner of the world. With a bit of a sweet flavour, this can easily be set on the table alongside an Asian recipe, like a plate of spicy ginger pork noodles. The combination will complement each other for a late summer meal on the deck.
Swan Valley
+ Sitella Winery
+ Lancaster Wines
Geographe
+ Carlaminda Estate
+ Barton Jones Estate
CHARDONNAY
Often made into a refreshing sparkling wine, this style can be sipped alongside a rich & filling bowl of pasta. Think a creamy chicken and mushroom sauce mixed through risotto. Okay, we'll stop - we're getting hungry, too! There are a range of Chardonnays: from fruity to buttery.
Swan Valley
+ John Kosovich Wines
+ Coward and Black (and while you're at it, check out the Margaret River Chocolate Company shop next door for a few decadent treats)
Geographe
+ Harvey River Estate
+ Saint Aidan Wine
SHIRAZ
Delicious and velvety, it is incomparible to any other red wine. A matter of opinion, maybe - but have you ever had the fire going on a chilly winter's night while you and your partner sip at Shiraz to wash down a hearty stew? If you're a traditionalist, try a beef & vegetable stew. If you're looking for more diverse cuisine, a glass will really heighten the flavour of a lamb korma curry.
Swan Valley
+ Swanbrook Winery
+ Jarrah Ridge Wines
Geographe
+ Fifth Estate Wines
+ Willow Bridge Estate
BEER
Of course we didn't forget about you. Wine isn't for everyone. And while everyone is sampling, you may be looking for something more frothy. Award-winning, handcrafted beers are within reach.
Swan Valley
+ Homestead Brewery at Mandoon Estate
+ Duckstein Brewery
Geographe
+ Moody Cow Brewery
+ Wild Bull Brewery
DID SOMEONE SAY CHEESE? 
Wine and cheese is a romance of the ages. Like Romeo & Juliet or vegemite on toast, the union of a chilled Chardonnay with a slice of brie is magical.
Soft or hard cheeses, have a peak at the these artisan cheesemakers.
Swan Valley
+ The Cheese Barrell Swan Valley
Geographe
+ Yallingup Cheese Company
+ Harvey Cheese
ACCOMMODATION
Try our Swan Valley park or our Bunbury Foreshore park, on the Geographe coast. You'll be a cork dork in no time!
