Sittella Winery

Sittella Winery sits in Herne Hill, about 25 kilometres northeast of Perth in the Swan Valley — one of Western Australia's oldest wine regions and a well-established destination for day trips from the city. Established in 1998, Sittella has built its reputation around the warm-climate varieties that thrive here: Verdelho, Shiraz, and Chenin Blanc.

The Wines

The Swan Valley's Mediterranean climate — long, hot summers and dry conditions — suits a particular style of wine, and Sittella leans into that with purpose. Verdelho is the standout white: aromatic and crisp, it's a variety that has found a natural home in the region's sandy soils. Chenin Blanc adds versatility to the white range, while Shiraz delivers the kind of fruit-forward red that warm-climate growing conditions consistently produce. These three varieties form the core of what you'll taste at the cellar door and what you'll find stocked in the on-site wine shop.

Cellar Door Experience

The cellar door at Sittella is modern and well set up for visitors, whether you're arriving as a couple, with family, or as part of a group. Tastings focus on the winery's signature varieties, and the wine shop on-site stocks the full range for takeaway purchases — useful if you're touring the region and want to pick up a few bottles along the way.

Tasting fees and booking requirements can vary, so it's worth checking the Sittella website before you visit. Group visits and tours can be arranged in advance.

Food and Dining

There's a restaurant on-site, which makes Sittella an easy choice if you're looking to spend a few hours rather than just a quick tasting stop. The menu is designed to complement Sittella's wines, with options that suit both casual lunches and more considered dining. Groups and families are catered for. If you're considering a picnic or platters, it's best to confirm the current arrangements directly with the winery before your visit.

Getting There

Sittella is located in Herne Hill and is easily reached via Great Eastern Highway. The drive from Perth CBD takes around 25 to 30 minutes by car, and the winery is well-signposted once you're in the Valley. On-site parking is available for cars and small vehicles. If you're travelling by caravan or arriving with a coach group, contact the winery ahead of time to confirm access and space.

Public transport to the Swan Valley is limited, so a private vehicle is the practical choice for most visitors.

Visitor Tips

• Timing your visit: April through October offers the most comfortable weather for a day out in the Valley. If you're interested in vintage events and harvest releases, March and April are worth targeting. The quieter winter months (June to August) are a good option if you prefer a more relaxed visit — the cellar door remains open through winter.
• Make a day of it: Sittella is one of several cellar doors clustered along the Swan Valley wine route, so it's easy to combine with neighbouring wineries in a single outing.
• Mid-week visits: Weekends can get busy, particularly in spring. A mid-week visit generally means shorter waits and more time with staff at the tasting counter.
• Stay for lunch: Pairing a tasting with a meal at the restaurant makes for a more complete experience and gives the wines better context.
• Check the website: Sittella runs harvest and seasonal events through the year — the website is the most reliable source for current dates and any special releases.