Mount Barker is the South West’s oldest wine-growing region. This beautiful region is famous for its fresh country air and stunningly beautiful views of rolling hills against the backdrop of the majestic Stirling and Porongurup Ranges. This countryside vibe and undulating hills make it a breath-taking location, so it’s easy to see why it was chosen as the location of the new movie, Rams.
Rams stars Sam Neil and Michael Caton who play estranged (and feuding) brothers, Colin and Les. Raising separate flocks of sheep descended from their family’s prized bloodline, the two men work side by side yet are worlds apart. When Les’s prize ram is diagnosed with a rare and lethal illness, authorities order a purge of every sheep in the valley. While Colin attempts to stealthily outwit the powers that be, Les opts for angry defiance. But can the warring brothers set aside their differences and have a chance to reunite their family, save their herd, and bring their community back together?
The drama plays out in the countryside of Mount Barker, surrounded by the spectacular Stirling and Porongurup National Park Ranges and stretching vineyards. If you fancy treading in the footsteps of the movie’s stars, now is an amazing time to head to Mount Barker.
Just four hours from Perth, Mount Barker is the perfect location for a minibreak! Explore the Mount Barker Food and Wine Trail where you traverse your way through wineries, vineyards and gorgeous restaurants and cafes. Hear the stories of the family-owned vineyards as you meet the passionate hard-working vineyard owners and winemakers. Sample award-winning Riesling, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, along with other varietals such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Müller-Thurgau and Sauvignon Blanc.
MUST VISIT WINERIES IN MOUNT BARKER
- PLANTAGENET WINES 45 Albany Highway, Mount Barker
The first winery in the Great Southern, founded by the legendary Tony Smith. The history of the region, the wine and direct links to the Plantagenet Kings of England make Plantagenet Wines a must-see location along with 5 Star Halliday rated wines. ‘The Shed’ Wine Café is open 7 days for a local wine and food experience.
- ARCADIA WINES 2875 Red Gum Pass Rd, Kendenup
Arcadia is a family-run cellar door offering tastings of their award-winning wines, pizza, ploughman and cheese platters. Experience your own piece of Arcadia relaxing with a cool glass of wine or a refreshing craft beer as you overlook views of the Stirling Range in all its glory!
- GILBERT WINES 30138 Albany Highway, Kendenup
Gilbert Wines is a family-run vineyard which has been growing great flavours for four generations! Visit the cellar door to try their award-winning wines and enjoy freshly cooked meals in the café. You’ll be treated to spectacular views of the Porongurup range – make sure you take a stroll around their culinary garden too!
- GALAFREY WINES 432 Quangellup Road, Mount Barker
Visit Galafrey Wines where you’ll be met at the cellar door by their friendly dog, Bruce! This is one of Mount Barker’s oldest family-run wineries established in 1977. Learn about their unique Dry Grown Vineyard and sample wines by winemaker Kim Tyrer (finalist in the National Women in Wine Awards). Enjoy the veranda views of the undulating countryside – simply stunning!
- WEST CAPE HOWE WINES 14923 Muir Highway (10kms West of Mount Barker)
Visit this cellar door to sample some of the region’s finest wines. Enjoy a locally made Paté Platter or Winemakers Antipasto Platter with a selection of local produce. They often have art exhibitions in the building too.
- POACHER’S RIDGE 1630 Spencer Road, Narrikup
With a relaxed atmosphere, this cellar door has been twice named as one of Australia’s best by Gourmet Traveller Wine. Sample premium and aged wines at the cellar door and stay for a light lunch by the fire or enjoy the views from the deck. You can even stay overnight here in the cute-as-a-button Gamekeeper’s Cottage.
- WINDRUSH WINES CAFE Cnr St Werburghs and Hay River Roads, Mount Barker
A small boutique vineyard and café offering delightful wines and tasty gourmet lunches. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere overlooking the established gardens and vineyard to the Mount Barker hills. Try morning or afternoon tea with local ‘Stash’ barista coffee, ‘T-Nomic’ leaf teas and homemade cakes. They also have a great range of gifts if you want to take a souvenir home with you.
Please note, following the impacts of the COVID19 restrictions earlier in the year, some of these locations may have varying opening hours. We recommend you give them a call ahead of time to find out their availability and opening hours first. Details can be found here.
Mount Barker is the gateway to the Great Southern wine region, so if you have more time up your sleeve, you can make a longer holiday out of your trip and visit nearby Frankland River, Denmark, Albany or Porongurup.
