Did you know that the vast majority of wine produced in Western Australia is made from just a handful of grape varietals? You know the ones you can find at any bottle shop, like Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Yet, tucked away on a shelf nearby is an array of unique wines just waiting to be tried. And in many cases, the grapes which made these alt varietal wines come from the Ferguson Valley!
Over the past 20 years, the Geographe Wine region has made a name for itself with its stunning alternative varietal wines, setting itself apart from other wine regions in WA. From Grenache to Durif, Arneis to Barbera, and Fiano to Tempranillo, the Geographe Wine Region’s unique climate and terrain makes it an ideal location to grow Mediterranean styles.
The Geographe Wine Show is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a fresh name and fresh new faces in the mix. Over its 20consecutive years running, the now Labelmakers Group, WA Alternative Varieties Wine Show has evolved from a small regional show to a major state-wide event recognised on the national wine show calendar.
Joining the senior judging panel again for 2022 is Jacopo Dalli Cani – Head winemaker at Mchenry Hohnen. “I only discovered the Geographe Wine region about 10 years ago and I have been admiring its oenological rise since.”
“Having been able to judge at the Geographe Wine show has given me the opportunity to dive more deeply into the wines from this region and meet the passionate people behind them,” says Jacopo.
Award-winning sommelier, restaurateur, and certified wine educator Foni Pollitt is a big fan of the region’s bold take alternative varietals. – ‘Perched in between the well-known Swan District and the infamous Margaret River – Ferugson Valley in the Geographe region houses some of the best kept wine secrets of WA. Located inland but still receives the moderating ocean breeze and altitude, displays my favourite choices of wines with purity of fruit that plays with a delicate refinement. Not afraid to go against the grain and showcasing alternative varietals in all of their glory’.
If you want to sample some of the alt varietals for yourself during Lost & Found, we’ve got some exciting events coming your way. Loose yourself in alternative varietals with local producers like Willow Bridge Estate, Hackersley Estate, Green Door Wines and St Aidan’s Wines. Stay tuned via our email database or follow along on Facebook and Insta for details when events go live.
Entries are now open via the website, www.geographewine.com.au and close 23 August, 2022. Save the date for a very special presentation and celebration on Saturday 17 September, right after Lost & Found.
