Gilt Edge Chauffeurs
Manjimup, Pemberton and & Blackwood Valley Wine Regions
The Southern Forests is a wine zone under Australia’s Geographical Indications system. Within this zone lie two recognised wine regions: Manjimup and Pemberton, each shaped by elevation, forest cover, and cool-climate conditions that favour refined Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and structured Cabernet Sauvignon. Nearby is the Blackwood Valley wine region, distinct in its own right but often grouped with the Southern Forests under the tourism banner of Southern Forests & Valleys.
Together, the Southern Forests (Manjimup and Pemberton) and the neighbouring Blackwood Valley are among Western Australia’s most distinctive cool-climate wine regions. Elevated vineyards, abundant rainfall, and fertile soils create wines of elegance, freshness, and individuality.
Manjimup is known for structured Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, alongside Chardonnay and Verdelho.
Pemberton favours Pinot Noir and refined Chardonnay, supported by small parcels of Bordeaux reds.
Blackwood Valley produces medium-bodied Shiraz, age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon, and finely balanced Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
These regions also form part of Western Australia’s “food bowl,” with year-round produce from truffles and chestnuts to stone fruit, marron, and freshwater fish – making them ideal for combining premium wine with seasonal food experiences.
Notable Producers
A selection of boutique and family-owned vineyards showcase the diversity of these regions:
Manjimup
Chestnut Grove
Merlot, Verdelho, Pinot Noir.
Peos Estate
Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz.
Pemberton
Bellarmine
Riesling (three styles), Pinot Noir, Chardonnay.
Picardy
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Merlot blends.
Lost Lake
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz.
Hidden River Estate
Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, restaurant & cellar door.
Silkwood Wines
portfolio spanning Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, aromatic whites and structured reds.
Smithbrook Wines
noted for refined Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet.
Chateau June-Jerome
focused on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Blackwood Valley
Whimwood Estate
Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon.
Sunnyhurst Winery
Shiraz, fortifieds, historic setting.
Beulah Wines
boutique Nannup label creating Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon with a modern, fruit-focused style.
Dunmovin Estate
family-run producer making approachable, fruit-driven wines that reflect the Blackwood Valley’s regional style.
Nannup Estate
vineyard producing Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz supported by crisp whites that capture the cool-climate character of the area.
Shedley Wines
producer of traditional regional varieties, crafting wines shaped for straightforward drinkability and authenticity.
St Johns Wine
premium label based in the Blackwood Valley, focused on Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, noted for balance and definition.
For guests who enjoy a deeper dive into the background of these regions, I have prepared a Wine IQ feature on the Southern Forests and Blackwood Valley – including wine zone definitions, subregional detail, and notable producers.
Touring with Gilt Edge Chauffeurs
These regions offer a quieter, more personal wine experience, with tastings often hosted by the very people who planted the vines. I provide private chauffeur services from Perth, Busselton, Bunbury, Margaret River, and across the South West.
One-day, two-day, or three-day itineraries can be tailored to feature premium tastings, vineyard lunches, and introductions to the producers behind these wines – all in the comfort of a Lexus ES300h Luxury Hybrid Sedan.
If you would like to explore the Southern Forests and the Blackwood Valley in comfort and style, please contact me directly to discuss your itinerary and receive a personalised price.
Why Choose Gilt Edge Chauffeurs
- Every tour is personally hosted and driven by Craig Douglas
- Exclusive use – never shared with other groups
- Immediate standby throughout the day, allowing flexibility and certainty
- Tailored itineraries shaped around your wine preferences and preferred pace
- Advance bookings and coordination with cellar-door hosts and restaurants
- Extensive familiarity with the Margaret River, Geographe, and wider South West wine regions
- Quiet luxury, discretion, and professional care throughout your experience
- Written itinerary confirming timings, venues, arrangements, tasting notes, and venue background
Learn more about the features that distinguish Gilt Edge Chauffeurs, including immediate standby, exclusive use, discretion, personalised service, and regional expertise.