A Place Behind The Wine
While Margaret River has earned a global reputation as the Queen of Chardonnay and the King of Cabernet Sauvignon, it’s Wilyabrup that has become especially revered for its world-class Cabernet. The combination of free-draining gravelly soils, a clay subsoil for moisture retention and a maritime climate allows Cabernet Sauvignon to ripen slowly and evenly, producing wines celebrated for their elegance, structure and remarkable longevity.
Our vineyard sits on the gentle northern slopes of the Wilyabrup Valley, where winter is no exception to the rhythm of the seasons.
While the vineyard may appear quiet, the vines have entered dormancy, a natural period of rest that allows them to replenish their energy and prepare for the growing season ahead. Beneath the surface, the roots continue to strengthen, storing the reserves needed to support healthy growth in spring.
For our Viticulturist Russ and the team, however, winter is anything but quiet.
Each vine is carefully pruned by hand, with up to 90% of the previous season’s growth removed. It’s a thoughtful process that helps maintain vine balance, regulate future crop levels and lay the foundation for another exceptional vintage.
Long before a grape is picked, the story of every vintage has already begun.
Your Winter Wine List
Cooler days call for wines with a little more depth, texture and warmth.
At the top of our winter wine list sits the 2023 Wilyabrup Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec Petit Verdot. Awarded 96 points by Halliday Wine Companion, it is a wine that captures the power and elegance of Margaret River in equal measure. Aromas of florals, spice and menthol lead into perfectly ripe fruit, beautifully integrated oak and fine tannins that linger long after the last sip.
For those gathering around a slow-cooked meal or a cheese board, it’s the perfect winter companion.
Other favourites for the season include our new release In Good Hands Mourvèdre, ripe plum and blackcurrant flavours with hints of spice and liquorice, wrapped in soft velvety tannins, and the Lenton Brae Cabernet Sauvignon, a classic Margaret River red that feels right at home beside hearty winter dishes.
Four-Legged Friends Welcome
Of course, winter adventures are better when the whole family comes along.
Dogs are always welcome at Lenton Brae, and we keep a stash of treats on hand for our furry visitors. So, whether you’re stopping in after a walk along the coast or making a day of exploring the region, your four-legged friend is welcome to join you.
A Different Side of Margaret River
Winter in Margaret River has a charm all of its own.
Fewer crowds. Slower afternoons. Great wine shared with good company.
If you’re looking for a reason to visit Wilyabrup this season, we’ll have the fire going and a glass waiting for you.
Open daily from 10am.
Halliday Recognition
The Halliday Wine Companion is Australia’s most trusted guide to wine. Earning 95-point ratings for both the Wilyabrup Chardonnay and Wilyabrup Cabernet Sauvignon places Lenton Brae in an elite group of producers, while the 5 Star Winery Rating recognises the consistent quality across the portfolio.
“These awards are a reflection of our vineyards and the people behind them,” says Vanessa ‘Ness’ Carson, Winemaker. “At Lenton Brae, we don’t chase trends. We focus on what this land does best and allow our wines to speak with authenticity.”
The Wilyabrup Range: A True Expression of Place
The Wilyabrup range represents the pinnacle of place and process, here at Lenton Brae.
Crafted only from the finest parcels of fruit, these wines are made to showcase the best of Margaret River’s famed terroir.
- Wilyabrup Chardonnay – Elegant yet powerful, this wine balances purity of fruit with subtle oak influence. Stone fruit, citrus and fine mineral notes combine to deliver a wine of precision and grace.
- Wilyabrup Cabernet Sauvignon – Rich, layered, and structured, this wine captures the hallmark characteristics of Wilyabrup: dark berry fruit, cassis, fine tannins, and exceptional length.
“These wines are about legacy,” says Ness. “They’re the finest expression of our vineyards, crafted to honour both the land and the generations of work that have gone into it.”
A Legacy in a Glass
Lenton Brae was established in 1982, at a time when Margaret River (particularly the Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon) was just beginning to make its mark on the global wine stage.
Over four decades later, the winery remains family-owned, with a reputation for producing wines of both enduring elegance and regional authenticity.
Our philosophy has always been clear: make wines with integrity, respect for place, and a focus on quality above all else. This commitment has allowed Lenton Brae to build a reputation not just for consistency, but for wines that leave a lasting impression.
“Every vintage is a chance to add another chapter to our story,” Ness reflects. “When someone opens a bottle of Lenton Brae, they’re tasting not just the fruit of one season, but the heritage of Margaret River itself.”
The Spirit of Margaret River
As one of the founding subregions, Wilyabrup is considered the beating heart of Margaret River wine country.
With its maritime climate, gravelly soils, and cooling breezes, it provides the perfect environment for Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon – two varieties that have become globally recognised signatures of the region.
These classics continue to honour the traditions that put Margaret River on the map, while adding its own unique voice. The result is wines that are as enjoyable to drink today as they are capable of ageing gracefully for years to come.
Experience Lenton Brae
Whether you’re an avid wine collector, a passionate foodie, or someone looking to explore the best of Margaret River, Lenton Brae offers an invitation to taste the region’s legacy in a glass.
The Wilyabrup range stands at the top, but every wine carries the same dedication to quality and craftsmanship.
Visit the Lenton Brae Cellar Door, discover the story behind the wines, and experience firsthand why the Halliday Wine Companion 2026 has placed this Margaret River winery among Australia’s finest.
At Lenton Brae, winemaking is more than craft – it’s heritage. With each vintage, each award, and each bottle shared, the winery continues to prove that Margaret River’s legacy is alive and well, waiting to be poured into your glass.
Friday:
Hot tip: leave work early. If you are coming from Perth – try and hit the road by lunch time.
That will see you arrive in the magnificent Margaret River around mid-arvo. Go check into your accommodation, unpack and settle in.
Need supplies? Head into town and drop by Blue Ginger Fine Foods to grab some [delicious] essentials. Take a stole down the main street and get acquainted with town. Maybe an aperitif at Pearl’s.
When it comes to dinner; the world is your oyster!!! There’s no way we can list all the options here. But lucky, we don’t have to. There are heaps of other people have made some great guides worth checking out.
WA Good Food Guide: The South West Guide: Where to Eat in the Margaret River Region
Margaret River Region: Eat and Drink
Perth is Okay: The best restaurants in Margaret River
The Urban List: The Best Margaret River Restaurants To Visit Right Now
Broadsheet: The Best Restaurants in Margaret River
Saturday:
If you are an early riser – head to the Margaret River Farmer’s Market first thing for a stroll [from 7.30am] and to stock up on some local treats.
You can’t go past each walk on the beach at Peverley (puppy friendly) and a coffee at the general store, it is the best way to start the day. Check out the waves at the main break if the surf is up, and the majestic Margaret River mouth.
Hop back out onto Caves Road and head north.
Peel off onto Armstrong Road and check out Olio Bello, before scooting back to the coast for a scenic drive over the hill into Gracetown (the most southern end of the beach is dog-friendly).
It’s probably creeping up on lunch time, so why not come to Lenton Brae for a Cellar Door wine tasting, and a charcuterie board by the fire (or sit with your puppy out the front).
Depending on your energy reserves at this point;
You could go and explore Yallingup – a little further north
You could head south to the quaint coastline of Augusta and drive through Boranup Forest on the way.
Or, considering this is meant to be a relaxing weekend of unWINEding. You could head home, put your feet up, grab a book and a glass of wine – and chill out.
Head out for dinner again or snuggle up and make a relaxed dinner from your local finds.
Sunday:
You’ll probably get booted form your accommodation around 10am.
Depending on where you are staying, it can be nice to pop out to the coast on the way home – for a final farewell.
Otherwise, pack up, grab a coffee and hit the road. Drive safe. Be sure to take a break. And be sure to come back soon.
So come and see us, it is worth the journey.
As winter draws to a close, savour Margaret River at its most enchanting. Wild coastlines and forest trails by day, fireside laughs, wine and cheese by night.
Quick Tips:
A fireplace is beautiful in winter (be sure to learn how to light it, and make it last)
Bring your Ugg boots (or woolly socks) – the floors can be cold
Pack a raincoat – always – it is 5 seasons in one day down here
Here is a great guide for puppy friendly stays and activities
Stock up – make the most of local producers, cellar door offers, and the market
Introducing- our new GSM 🍷
A generous, fruit-driven red that’s ready to enjoy now.
We’re excited to introduce the newest addition to our range – the 2024 Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre (GSM) from our In Good Hands Range. Sourced from the exceptional Frankland River sub-region in the Great Southern, this classic blend is a true reflection of thoughtful winemaking and balanced vineyard expression.
Expect a bright, aromatic nose led by cherry, raspberry and mulberry from Grenache. Shiraz adds plush plum and hints of star anise, while Mourvèdre rounds it out with notes of cherry ripe and dark chocolate. – Winemaker, Vanessa Carson
Our tip? Pair it with a cheese platter featuring Manchego, quince paste, and walnuts