Both Ben and Jacopo reported the 2026 vintage was an exceptional, near-textbook season, driven by a long, wet winter that recharged the soil after the previous dry vintage.
Excellent vineyard health, minimal disease pressure and a slightly longer vintage combined to deliver consistent high-quality fruit across the region, with juicier and more uniform Gingin berries than usual contributing to slightly higher yields.
Jacopo noted the emerging confidence in winemaking around the region paired with the mellow season is exciting. The impressive freshness, purity and balance around the room was commended more than once.
As always, the wonderful diversity and complexity of the sub-regions has created a lot of excitement and confidence in the quality of 2026 Chardonnay.
Jacopo noted “I think all these wines will provide an incredible journey for the drinker… They will turn heads, they will do well in wine shows, critics will love them. You should be proud…”
Our thanks to everyone who contributed samples and joined the conversation, your generosity and openness make this tasting one of the most valued events on the regional calendar.
Past Events
The 2026 Margaret River Chardonnay Tasting
Follow @vassefelix for more snaps from this collaborative regional event.
Last week, vignerons and winemakers from across the Margaret River region assembled in the Vasse Felix Art Gallery to explore the world of Margaret River Chardonnay, tasting unfinished Chardonnay samples from the 2026 vintage, generously contributed by producers throughout the region.
This year, over 100 samples were contributed by 39 Margaret River producers for this insightful annual tasting. The event attracted an impressive gathering of viticulturists and winemakers, providing a valuable opportunity to share knowledge and experiences.
As in previous tastings, producers were asked to contribute samples that highlight specific site differences, so that everyone can better understand the scope of the region and the quality of our vineyards.
Discussions on the 2026 vintage were guided by Chief Winemaker Virginia Willcock and featured guest speakers Jacopo Dalli Cani (Head Winemaker) and Ben Sieber (Viticulturist) from McHenry Hohnen.
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