Frankland Estate

Frankland Estate is one of the Frankland River region's pioneer producers, established in 1988 at a time when Western Australia's South West was still finding its footing as serious cool-climate wine country. Today, the estate remains a worthy destination for travellers willing to venture the 270 kilometres south-east of Perth — and those who make the journey tend to find a cellar door experience that feels genuinely unhurried.

The Wines

Frankland Estate has built its reputation around three varieties that suit the region's cool-climate conditions particularly well: Riesling, Shiraz, and Cabernet Franc.

The Riesling is considered the flagship, and with good reason — the cooler microclimates of the Frankland River region produce wines with the kind of natural acidity and structural tension that reward time in the bottle. If you're visiting the cellar door, it's worth picking up a few bottles with the intention of holding them rather than opening them straight away.

The Shiraz and Cabernet Franc round out the estate's core range with a cool-climate character — expect structure and complexity rather than the fuller, warmer-climate fruit profiles you might encounter in regions further north.

Cellar Door Experience

The cellar door at Frankland Estate is a classic rural setup — straightforward, relaxed, and focused on the wines rather than elaborate extras. Guided tastings are available, taking you through the estate's core range of Riesling, Shiraz, and Cabernet Franc, with wines available to purchase and take away.

Tasting fees and booking requirements should be confirmed directly with the winery via their website before your visit, particularly if you're travelling with a group.

The Vineyard

Frankland River sits in the South West of Western Australia, where maritime influences and well-drained soils combine to create growing conditions suited to elegant, restrained wine styles. The vineyard landscape is characterised by elevated terrain and variable aspects — the kind of environment where Riesling in particular can develop slowly and expressively over a long growing season.

Getting There

Frankland Estate is located in the Frankland River township, around 270 kilometres south-east of Perth — roughly a three to four hour drive via Princes Highway and local roads. There is no public transport to the region, so a car is essential. The winery is noted as caravan-friendly, which makes it a practical stop for travellers touring the South West by road. Coach or bus groups should confirm parking arrangements in advance.

Visitor Tips

• Harvest season (March–April) is a rewarding time to visit, with autumn conditions and activity across the region. Spring (October–November) is also good, with fewer visitors and pleasant weather.
• Frankland River sees significantly less tourist traffic than Margaret River, which makes for a more relaxed tasting experience — but it also means fewer services and facilities, so plan accordingly.
• The drive from Perth is best treated as part of a longer South West wine tour, combining Frankland River with other regional stops to make the most of the distance.
• If you're travelling as part of a group or a touring party, book ahead to make sure the cellar door can accommodate you.
• Stock up at the wine shop — the estate's Rieslings in particular are worth taking home in quantity if you have the cellar space for them.