The Region

History

The European settlement of Peel dates back to 1829 when a visionary named Thomas Peel brought three ships of migrants from England for the Peel Settlement Scheme. In 1846 the first lead, silver and zinc mine was opened in West Australia. Although short-lived, it presaged the large-scale mineral sands, gold and bauxite mining and the processing operations that commenced during the 1970s.

The first vines were planted in 1857. However it was not until the 1970s that more significant developments have taken place in what has been a rapidly expanding area for numerous lifestyle activities. The first commercial vineyard was established with a planting of Shiraz by Will Nairn at the Peel Estate in 1974. While most other varieties have also now been established, Shiraz remains the flagship variety for the region.

Chenin Blanc

This was the first white grape to be planted in Peel. The wine is produced with or without oak and gains character and depth with short to medium-term cellaring.

Chardonnay

Planted in most of the localities throughout the region, this wine attests to the versatility of the variety. Character notes range from melon and stonefruit to rich and buttery.

Cabernet Sauvignon

Planted in many parts and producing a medium-bodied wine, Cabernet is slightly firmer when grown inland at higher elelvations.

Shiraz

Not only the longest established in the region, the Shiraz is arguably the most successful variety, particularly around the Peel Estate. Overall, the style is medium-bodied with sweet, fine, ripe tannins.

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