Capel Vale

Capel Vale is one of the Geographe region's founding wineries, established in 1974 when the area south of Perth was still finding its footing as a wine-producing destination. Five decades on, it remains a reference point for cool-climate wine in Western Australia, and a well-set-up stop for visitors touring the region.

The Wines

The cellar door pours across three core varieties: shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, and riesling. All three suit the Geographe region's growing conditions well. The maritime influence tempers the heat, and the gravelly soils lend structure to the reds. Shiraz and cabernet sauvignon are the house strengths — the region has long shown an aptitude for both — while riesling benefits from the cooler stretches of the growing season, producing wines with good acidity and definition.

Cellar Door Experience

The cellar door offers tastings in a relaxed setting, with staff on hand to walk you through the range. If you want more than a tasting, Capel Vale runs organised tours covering production processes and vineyard operations — worthwhile if you're interested in how the wines are made rather than just how they taste. Contact the winery ahead of your visit to confirm current tasting fees, any booking requirements, and what's available for groups.

Food and Dining

An on-site restaurant means you can make a half-day of it, combining tastings with a meal matched to the wines. It's a practical setup for those who'd rather not rush through the cellar door and move on. Specific menu details and booking arrangements are best confirmed directly with the winery before you arrive.

Getting There

Capel sits roughly 240 kilometres south of Perth, making it a natural stop on a longer touring loop through the South West. The drive is straightforward, and the property has on-site parking. If you're travelling by caravan or with a coach group, it's worth calling ahead to confirm what's available — capacity for larger vehicles isn't guaranteed without checking first. There's no practical public transport option, so a private vehicle is the only realistic way to get here.

Visitor Tips

• Autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) offer the most comfortable touring weather. Summer can be hot, and winter, while quieter, is fine for a visit if you don't mind the slower pace.
• Vintage runs from February to April — if you're in the region during that window, there's usually more activity around the winery.
• The wine shop stocks bottles to take home, which is useful if you find something you want more of than the cellar door pour.
• Geographe has a cluster of wineries worth visiting in the same trip — Capel Vale pairs well with a broader regional touring day given its facilities and location.
• Check the website at capelvale.com for current opening hours, events, and any seasonal tastings before you travel.