Margaret River Organic Wine Trail
Currently, only a small number of producers in the Margaret River Wine Region have fully certified both their vineyards and wineries, producing wines exclusively from certified organic or biodynamic fruit. The Margaret River Certified Organic and Biodynamic Wine Trail showcases a selection of these exceptional wineries, offering a relaxed and scenic journey through the heart of the region and its many attractions. Brochures for the wine trail are available at visitor centres throughout Margaret River and at participating cellar doors.
While many wineries claim to follow organic or biodynamic principles, only a few go the extra step to achieve and maintain official certification. Converting vineyard land to certified organic or biodynamic status can take between 12 and 36 months, depending on its prior history. Certified winemaking also requires strict adherence to rules, including avoiding the mixing of certified and non-certified fruit and carefully controlling additives and processing aids.
Certified producers undergo annual audits to ensure they maintain organic or biodynamic standards. Unlike non-certified producers, certified wineries cannot use non-approved inputs such as synthetic fertilisers, pesticides, herbicides, or GMOs without risking the loss of certification. For consumers, certification is a mark of integrity, guaranteeing that the wine genuinely meets organic or biodynamic standards.
Many other vineyards and wineries in Margaret River are practicing organic and biodynamic techniques and pursuing certification for their vineyards or wineries. A full list of certified producers is available on the Margaret River Organic Wine website. This is an exciting time for organic wine in the region, as more producers embrace these practices. By prioritising healthy, biodiverse vineyard ecosystems, certified wineries can craft wines that reflect their terroir while minimising environmental impact.
