Wet and wild conditions can’t dampen Margaret River wine production as some expect measured and even yields

Wet and wild conditions are not dampening the Margaret River region’s wine production, with several wineries expecting measured and even yields with chardonnay and sauvignon blanc looking best suited to the season. Following a long, wet winter, with dams full and well-saturated soil, Margaret River vineyards are recording strong canopy growth. The 2026 wine season is looking to fit what is expected for South West growers following several warmer years. This season’s soaking winter and warm summer has has encouraged slow, even ripening, with fruit retaining its natural acidity and composure according to growers with cool southern winds keeping the vines free of stress. In the Margaret River region chardonnay and sauvignon blanc, are looking particularly well suited to the season, while pinot noir and riesling in the Great Southern have progressed steadily. Sparkling parcels out of Pemberton are especially impressive on vine this season also. Chardonnay harvest in Margaret River kicked off the season on February 12, followed by grenache in the Swan Valley with yields looking balanced and in line with expectations. Cabernet sauvignon is taking its time, which should allow tannin ripeness, flavour development and sugar levels to align comfortably through April. Howard Park chief winemaker Nic Bowen and chief viticulturist Stephen Kirby said while their yields are looking a little lighter than they have hoped, it seems to be a similar story across many of the early picks in Margaret River. Mr Bowen said he is particularly excited about what’s shaping up for the Jeté range of sparkling wines this year. Howard Park’s Mount Barrow vines in the Great Southern are having a particularly good year. “Clone 115 pinot noir out of Mount Barrow is looking especially well suited to the conditions we’ve had, and we will be into the sparkling fruit in the coming days,” he said. “We’re optimistic that we can build on last vintage’s success. “It’s all moving quickly, but everything so far feels positive and well timed — there’s plenty to look forward to as the season unfolds.” Stella Bella has also commenced its vintage for 2026 under the direction of chief winemaker Jarrad Olsen, marking the first harvest in nearly two decades under new leadership. After eight years with Stella Bella and 11 years prior at Vasse Felix, Mr Olsen steps into the role with deep knowledge of the winery’s southern Margaret River vineyards and a clear focus on site expression and precision. Vintage 2026 also sees the arrival of Sam Badger, formerly winemaker at Woodlands Wines, where he spent 15 years shaping some of Margaret River’s most respected cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay. Together with long-time viticulturist James Hayward, the new winemaking team begins the season with strong early indicators. Vintage conditions to date have been near ideal. A dry, sunny growing season, mild temperatures and consistent sea breezes have provided steady ripening across chardonnay, with yields up and fruit quality described as exceptional. “It’s shaping up to be a very exciting season,” Mr Olsen said. “The fruit has balance, natural intensity and beautiful acidity. Our role is to guide it carefully and let the vineyards speak.”