The Winery
The West Cape Howe Winery was purpose built in 1997 as Western Australia’s first contract winemaking facility, to provide a much sought after service to the many boutique growers and producers of the Great Southern wine region. In 2000, with a few vintages under their belts, the West Cape Howe range was released.
Total winemaking for the 2003 vintage, including contract winemaking, was 900 tons and in 2004 this is estimated at approximately 1100 tons, producing 53,000 cases for the West Cape Howe brand.
Winemakers
Renowned winemaker, Gavin Berry, heads the West Cape Howe team. Highly regarded internationally for making world class wines, he joined the team in mid 2004, following a successful 16 year career as CEO for Plantagenet Wines. Gavin’s hands on approach in winemaking and marketing makes him an integral part of the Company’s ongoing success.
Senior winemaker, Dave Cleary, has already completed six vintages at West Cape Howe. He has grown with the brand since its inception, has overseen the development of the range and has been instrumental in creating West Cape Howe’s unique and successful wine styles.
Fruit Sources
The Company’s Landsdale Vineyards, based in the Mt Barker sub-region, form the major fruit source for West Cape Howe. Planted in 1989, the vineyards are now some of the oldest in the area. The properties have approximately 80 hectares currently under vine. Other vineyard properties are located in Denmark and Bridgetown.
The Landsdale Vineyards are managed by experienced viticulturalist and business partner, Rob Quenby.