The Perth Hills wine region in Western Australia is located east of the Swan Valley wine region, spanning the western slopes of the Darling Range with elevations reaching up to 400 meters above sea level. Its cooler climate, compared to the Swan Valley, is attributed to the higher altitude, leading to a vintage period that typically occurs 10-20 days later. The region boasts diverse microclimates and topographies, offering a range of opportunities for grapevine cultivation across varying aspects and soil types.
Key grape varieties grown in the Perth Hills include Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, favored for both blending and single-variety bottlings, showcasing robust flavors with notes of chocolate, earthiness, and berries. Chardonnay is another prominent variety, producing textured white wines rich in ripe melon and peach aromas. The region also features a selection of other varieties like Chenin Blanc, Tempranillo, Petit Verdot, Grenache, and Pedro Ximenes, reflecting the terroir diversity of the Perth Hills.
The climate of the Perth Hills is significantly influenced by the surrounding landscape and its proximity to the Indian Ocean, allowing cooling sea breezes to reach numerous vineyard sites.