Why Frankland River is one of Australia's most innovative and exciting wine regions

Tucked within the ancient landscapes of Western Australia’s Great Southern, Frankland River has quietly become one of Australia’s most exciting cool-climate wine regions.

Defined by ironstone soils, dramatic diurnal shifts, and a fiercely passionate wine community, the region is producing wines of remarkable elegance, structure and identity.

Internationally recognised for producing premiumShirazandRiesling,Frankland River is home to approximately 1,600 hectares of vineyards. Despite our relatively modest plantings and crush size, the region supplies fruit to many wineries across Western Australia and contributes to some of Australia’s most iconic and award-winning wines.

WhileChardonnayandCabernet Sauvignonremain widely planted throughout the region, it is the smaller-batch varietals that are increasingly capturing the attention of the wine world. Varieties such asTempranillo,Malbec,Pinot Grigioand Gewürztraminer are producing exceptional single-varietal expressions that continue to impress wine writers, judges and industry experts both nationally and internationally.

For example, ourTempranillofrom the 2023 and 2024 vintages collected 13 Gold Medals across the Australian wine show circuit, a true testament to the quality of fruit Frankland River is capable of producing.

There is something distinctly and quintessentially “Frankland” about every varietal grown in the region. The more you taste, compare and share these wines, the more that unique regional identity reveals itself time and time again.

The next time you are browsing the aisles at your favourite Local Independent,Dan Murphy's, Liquor Barons, Cellarbrations, BWS, Porters Liquor, The Bottle-O ,BottlemartorThirsty Camel, we encourage you to pick up ourOrchid Diamond Chardonnayalongside a Margaret River Chardonnay of a similar price point. You may be surprised by the generosity, fruit weight, texture, finesse and richness of the Frankland River expression in comparison to its Margaret River counterpart.

The geology of the Frankland River region in Western Australia is defined by an ancient Precambrian basement overlaid with weathered lateritic crusts, Cenozoic marine sediments, and rich gravelly alluvial soils. This unique geological framework strongly influences the region’s hydrology, native vegetation, and premium viticulture.

Ironstone Gravels: Among the most prominent soil profiles across the undulating hills, ironstone gravels are highly prized for viticulture due to their exceptional drainage properties.

Sandy Duplex Soils: Common throughout the valley, these soils feature loamy sand over heavier clay subsoils, providing excellent moisture retention while maintaining healthy vine balance.

Marri Loams: Rich, red-tinted loams derived from weathered granite outcrops line many of the productive river valleys and contribute to the complexity and structure seen in Frankland River wines.

Frankland River benefits from a unique combination of Mediterranean and continental climatic influences. Warm, sunlit days allow for excellent fruit ripening, while crisp, cool nights help vines retain natural acidity and delicate aromatics.

Despite sitting approximately 80 kilometres inland from the Southern Ocean, vineyards still benefit from cooling afternoon and evening sea breezes, often referred to locally as the “Albany Doctor”.

The region receives approximately 310mm of rainfall during the growing season, with an annual average of around 600mm. These conditions support consistent vine growth and fruit development without excessive vigour, helping produce wines of remarkable purity, structure and balance. 

At Ferngrove, the entire team shares a deeply aspirational mindset, a collective commitment to doing everything to the highest possible standard. From the vineyard to the cellar door, we strive to create unforgettable wines, experiences and memories that reflect the remarkable place we call home.

We believe wholeheartedly in Frankland River and the wines it produces, and we are passionate about bringing more of the Frankland River experience to Perth and beyond.

We encourage you to join our mailing list, follow our social channels, and stay connected with us as we continue to share the stories, people and wines that make Frankland River one of Australia’s most exciting wine regions.