A Spot of History about Margaret River
Odd patches of vines were grown 100 years ago but the impetus for commercial development came in more recent history when in 1965 Dr John Gladstone highlighted the region's suitability in his report 'The Climate and Soils of Southern WA in relations to Vine Growing'. This was followed by the first significant vineyard planting in 1967. Dr Tom Cullity got Vasse Felix moving that year, Dr Bill Pannell established Moss Wood in 1969, Cape Mentelle began in 1970 and Dr Kevin Cullen planted Cullen's first vines in 1971.
In August 1986, total plantings were reported to be 400 hectares, about a sixth of estimated current plantings and 21 wine producers were listed. Today there are some 50 wineries and an estimated 70 labels produced from the region. Whilst there has been a growing interest from the big players in the Australian wine industry, most Margaret River producers are in the boutique category although several have expanded beyond the size normally synonymous with boutique wine production.