Plantagenet Wines

Plantagenet Wines sits at a significant address in Australian wine history. Established in 1968, it was among the first wineries to recognise the cool-climate potential of Mount Barker — a subregion that has since become one of Western Australia's most respected wine-producing areas. More than five decades on, Plantagenet remains a benchmark producer in Great Southern, and a natural starting point for anyone exploring the region.

History

When Plantagenet was founded in 1968, Great Southern was largely uncharted territory for viticulture. The winery was part of the pioneering wave that tested the region's suitability for fine wine production, and what they found was compelling: a cool maritime climate, well-drained soils, and dramatic diurnal temperature swings that create ideal conditions for slow, even ripening.

That early investment in the region has paid off across generations. Plantagenet has spent over fifty years refining its understanding of Mount Barker's terroir, and the winery is now widely regarded as one of the producers that defines what Great Southern wine looks and tastes like.

The Wines

Three varieties sit at the heart of the Plantagenet range: Riesling, Shiraz, and Cabernet Sauvignon — each well suited to Mount Barker's cooler growing conditions.

The Rieslings are arguably what the winery is best known for. Great Southern's climate produces Rieslings with crisp acidity and fine structure, capable of both immediate drinking and extended cellaring. If you taste only one wine at the cellar door, the Riesling is the one to reach for.

The Shiraz here is elegant rather than extracted — cool-climate in character, with the kind of fine tannin structure and spice that distinguishes Great Southern Shiraz from warmer-region examples. The Cabernet Sauvignon similarly reflects the site: structured, measured, and built for the medium to long term.

The Vineyard

Mount Barker is Great Southern's coolest subregion, sitting at elevation with well-drained soils and a climate moderated by its position in the state's south. The combination of altitude and significant day-to-night temperature variation slows fruit ripening considerably, allowing flavours to develop gradually and producing wines with natural freshness and complexity.

These are conditions that particularly favour aromatic white varieties and the more restrained, structured expressions of red Bordeaux and Rhône varieties — which is precisely what Plantagenet has built its reputation around.

Cellar Door Experience

The cellar door at Mount Barker reflects the winery's character: established, unhurried, and grounded in the wines themselves. Tastings cover the core range, with the Rieslings and Shiraz naturally taking a central role given their significance to both the winery and the region.

For visitors wanting more than a standard tasting, Plantagenet offers winery tours. These are worth booking ahead to secure a spot, particularly during busier periods. Allowing around one to two hours gives you time for a leisurely tasting and a tour without feeling rushed.

The winery also has an on-site wine shop, where you can purchase bottles to take home — often at competitive prices compared to retail.

It's worth confirming food availability directly with the winery before your visit, as details on platters, light meals, or picnic facilities aren't confirmed in available information.

Getting There

Plantagenet is located in Mount Barker, approximately 340 kilometres south of Perth via the Albany Highway. The drive takes you through the Wheatbelt and into the forested southern ranges — a journey that changes character considerably as you move south.

The cellar door has a carpark suitable for caravans and campervans, making it accessible for those touring the Great Southern by road. There is no public transport serving the cellar door, so self-driving is the practical option for a visit.

If you're travelling with a large group or a coach, it's worth contacting the winery in advance to confirm parking arrangements.

Visitor Tips

• Check opening hours before you travel — cellar door hours can vary by season, so a quick call or check of the website before your trip is worthwhile.
• Book ahead for tours — they're a useful way to understand the winery's history and production methods, and spots can fill up.
• Time your visit for autumn if possible — March to May is harvest season, and visiting during vintage gives you a chance to see the winery in full operation. Spring (September to November) is also a good time, with pleasant weather and the region's wildflower season adding to the trip.
• Mount Barker makes a solid touring base — there are several cellar doors within easy reach, so Plantagenet pairs well with a broader Great Southern itinerary.