Sandalford Wines Margaret River

Sandalford Wines holds a rare distinction in Australian viticulture — established in 1840, it is among the oldest operating wineries on the continent. Today, the Margaret River estate in Wilyabrup stands as one of the region's most recognised producers, drawing visitors who come for the estate-grown wines, the historic cellar door, and a setting that reflects more than 186 years of winemaking heritage.

History

Sandalford's origins predate the modern Margaret River wine industry by well over a century. Founded in 1840, the winery has evolved through multiple eras of Australian wine history, adapting its practices while maintaining continuity with its past. It remains a flagship name in Western Australian wine, blending historic tradition with contemporary winemaking techniques.

The Wines

The estate focuses on three varieties that are well suited to the Margaret River's growing conditions: Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, and Chardonnay. These form the core of what you'll taste at the cellar door, and each reflects the regional terroir in distinct ways.

Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz both benefit from the gravelly loam soils that characterise much of Margaret River, producing structured wines with good depth. Chardonnay performs particularly well in the cooler microclimates within the region, typically showing restrained fruit and good acidity. The wine shop at the estate also stocks back vintages and exclusive releases that aren't always available elsewhere, which is worth keeping in mind if you're looking for something beyond the current range.

The Vineyard

Margaret River's climate is heavily influenced by its proximity to the Indian Ocean, and Wilyabrup sits within this maritime zone. The ocean breezes moderate temperatures and extend the growing season, allowing fruit to develop gradually and retain natural acidity. The gravelly loam soils drain well and provide low-vigour growing conditions — characteristics that suit red Bordeaux varieties especially, and that have made the region's Cabernet Sauvignon reputation what it is today.

Cellar Door Experience

The cellar door presents a classic Margaret River atmosphere, with tastings of the estate's core range available to walk-in visitors. Vineyard and winery tours are also on offer for those who want a more structured look at the production side — these cover the winemaking process and regional terroir in some depth.

Booking ahead is advisable for tours and tastings, particularly during peak periods such as the summer holidays and the autumn harvest season. Specific tasting fees and booking requirements are best confirmed directly through the Sandalford website or by contacting the cellar door before your visit.

Food and Dining

An on-site restaurant operates alongside the cellar door, with food and wine pairings available. For current menu details, dietary options, and reservation requirements, it's best to check directly with the venue, as offerings can vary by season.

Getting There

Sandalford's Margaret River estate is located in Wilyabrup, approximately three hours south of Perth via the Bussell Highway. The nearest township is Margaret River, roughly 10 kilometres away, which offers accommodation, fuel, and other services if you're making a day or overnight trip of it.

The property has an adequate carpark for private vehicles, and both coach and caravan access is accommodated. During peak summer periods and events, it's worth confirming overflow parking arrangements ahead of time.

Visitor Tips

• Allow two to three hours to make the most of the cellar door, a vineyard tour, and lunch at the restaurant.
• Book tours and tastings in advance, especially between December and February and during the March–May harvest period.
• The best times to visit are autumn (March–May), when harvest activity is under way, and spring (September–November), when the vines are in growth and the weather is mild. Summer can be warm, so an early morning arrival is a practical choice if you're visiting in December or January.
• The wine shop is worth browsing for back vintages and limited releases not available in retail.
• Margaret River has a high concentration of cellar doors — many are within a 30-minute drive, making it straightforward to combine a visit to Sandalford with others in the region on the same day.