Margaret River Wines: Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Semillon Sauvignon Blanc from Western Australia

Margaret River Chardonnay

Margaret River Chardonnay combines power with finesse: white peach, grapefruit and cashew, held together by fine, mouthwatering acidity. Much of it comes from the Gingin clone, whose loose bunches of large and small berries give the wines extra concentration.

Styles range from bright, lightly oaked wines for everyday drinking to barrel fermented reserve bottles built to age. Compare them with other regions in our Chardonnay collection.

Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon

Margaret River made its name with Cabernet Sauvignon, or Cab Sav as many Australians call it, and it is still the region's leading red. Expect blackcurrant, mulberry and a touch of bay leaf, with fine, polished tannins that often draw comparisons with Bordeaux.

Cabernet is also the backbone of the region's classic blends. Cabernet Merlot is soft and approachable, while a splash of Malbec or Petit Verdot adds colour and spice. For Cabernet from other regions, explore our Cabernet Sauvignon.

Semillon Sauvignon Blanc and More

The signature Margaret River white wine is Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, labelled SSB or SBS depending on which grape leads. Sauvignon Blanc brings passionfruit and citrus, Semillon adds texture and a crisp, lemony line. Find more in our Semillon Sauvignon Blanc collection.

On its own, Margaret River Sauvignon Blanc is crisp and zesty. The region also makes spicy Shiraz, while Margaret River rosé and sparkling wine are dry, fresh and elegant. For something sweet, look for dessert wines such as the Vasse Felix Cane Cut Semillon or the Fraser Gallop Ice Pressed Chardonnay.

North or South? The Subregions of Margaret River

The warmer north suits Cabernet Sauvignon, while the cooler south keeps Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc fresh. Margaret River stretches about 110 kilometres from north to south, and Dr John Gladstones later proposed six unofficial subregions: Yallingup, Carbunup, Wilyabrup, Treeton, Wallcliffe and Karridale.

Wilyabrup in the north is the heartland of Cabernet Sauvignon and home to several founding estates, including Vasse Felix and Cullen. Karridale in the far south is much cooler, and its Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc keep bright, fresh acidity.

Margaret River Wine Brands in Our Range

Cape Mentelle is our largest Margaret River producer, joined by Xanadu, whose Circa 77 range recalls the year the estate was founded, and Vasse Felix, the region's founding wine estate. Hay Shed Hill, Fraser Gallop, Devils Lair and Leeuwin Estate with its Art Series add depth.

You will also find wines from Credaro, Cherubino, Fermoy Estate, Brookland Valley and Howard Park, as well as organic Margaret River wine from Voyager Estate and the biodynamic pioneer Cullen.

Serving and Food Pairing

Serve Chardonnay and Semillon Sauvignon Blanc at 8 to 12 degrees, and Cabernet at 16 to 18 degrees. The region is famous for marron and fresh seafood, a lovely match for its whites, while Cabernet shines with roast lamb or a rare steak.

Is Margaret River Shiraz Worth Trying? Your Questions, Answered

Is Margaret River Shiraz worth trying?

Yes. Margaret River Shiraz is usually medium bodied, with dark plum, pepper and spice, sitting between Barossa richness and cool climate elegance. Some producers label it Syrah, like the Vasse Felix Premier Syrah.

How long can you cellar Margaret River Cabernet?

Everyday Cabernet Merlot is ready to drink on release. Premium Cabernet Sauvignon from a good vintage often improves for 10 to 20 years, developing notes of cedar, cassis and dried herbs.

How is Margaret River wine different from Barossa Valley wine?

Margaret River's ocean climate gives restrained, elegant wines with fresh acidity. The warmer Barossa Valley is famous for rich, full bodied Shiraz and Grenache, so a bottle from each is a great way to compare Australian styles.

Why Buy Margaret River Wine at YourWines?

From crisp Semillon Sauvignon Blanc for summer to Cabernet Sauvignon for the cellar, you can buy Margaret River wine online for every occasion and budget.

Every wine is chosen by our team, available by the dozen or as a six-pack, and shipping is free Australia wide with a surcharge for WA, TAS and remote areas. For more from the west, explore our Great Southern wines.