The Mount Barker region in Western Australia is a key sub-region of the Great Southern Wine Region, established in 1965 as the first sub-region in the area. Known for its unique climate with high temperature fluctuations and continental influences, Mount Barker experiences warm days and cool nights during the growing season, fostering optimal conditions for fruit ripening and grape acidity retention. With an average annual rainfall of 600-700mm and primarily marri soil with lateritic gravelly and sandy loams, Mount Barker supports vineyards that can thrive with minimal irrigation, contributing to the region's reputation for producing high-quality wines.
Mount Barker is celebrated for its production of premium wines, notably Riesling, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir, offering a diverse range of wine styles such as sparkling, white, red, dessert, and fortified wines to cater to various preferences. Several renowned wineries call the Mount Barker region home, including Plantagenet Wines, the first winery to open a cellar door in the Great Southern in 1975, and West Cape Howe Winery, known for offering high-value wines for everyday enjoyment. Poachers Ridge Winery provides wine tastings by appointment, while Galafrey Wines, a family-owned winery since 1977, continues to flourish under the leadership of Linda and Kim Tyrer and Nigel Rowe.