When the temperature dips below 20°C (yes, that’s cold for Perth), it’s time to retire the rosé and reach for something a little deeper, richer, and more comforting. And where better to turn than our own backyard? The Margaret River, Pemberton, and Great Southern wine regions are producing some of Australia’s most distinctive cool-weather drops — full of character, complexity, and best of all, soul-warming charm.
Whether you’re hosting a winter dinner party, cosying up on the couch with a bowl of pasta, or simply looking to branch out from your usual picks, these six wines are a delicious place to start. Each one brings something a little different to the glass, and all are guaranteed to elevate your winter drinking game.
Singlefile ‘Run Free’ Pinot Noir (Great Southern)
Why you’ll love it:
Bright yet brooding, this is the kind of pinot that manages to feel both elegant and wild. It leans into the Great Southern’s cool climate finesse with red cherry, soft spice, and subtle earthy notes. It’s an approachable pinot with just enough depth for winter.
Perfect with:
Roast duck, mushroom risotto, or even miso-glazed salmon. Its acid balance cuts through richness beautifully.
Voyager Estate ‘Girt by Sea’ Cabernet Merlot (Margaret River)
Why you’ll love it:
Don’t be fooled by the playful name — this is a seriously satisfying drop. Smooth, structured, and bursting with dark plum and cassis, it’s like your favourite winter jacket: warm, reliable, and effortlessly stylish.
Perfect with:
Grilled lamb chops, beef ragu, or a slice of cheddar by the fire.
Castle Rock Estate Riesling (Great Southern)
Why you’ll love it:
Not all winter wines have to be red. This dry Riesling is a standout for chilly nights where seafood is on the menu. Crisp citrus and minerality meet a whisper of florals — fresh yet textured, with a backbone that can handle richer pairings.
Perfect with:
Butter-poached crayfish, creamy chicken dishes, or Thai green curry.
Howard Park Flint Rock Shiraz (Great Southern)
Why you’ll love it:
The Flint Rock shiraz leans into the spicier, more savoury side of the varietal — think white pepper, ripe berries, and a whisper of smoky oak. It’s plush but not overpowering, making it a versatile red for any night of the week.
Perfect with:
Charred eggplant, beef bourguignon, or a slow-cooked lamb shoulder.
Below & Above Pinot Noir (Pemberton)
Why you’ll love it:
A cool-climate pinot with depth and swagger. This Pemberton-grown beauty is silky and savoury, with ripe red berries and just enough spice to make it feel luxurious. It’s the kind of wine that feels like it was specifically made for slow Sundays when the sky is a little moody.
Perfect with:
Pan-roasted duck breast with shaved truffles.
South by South West Skin Contact White (Margaret River)
Why you’ll love it:
This one’s for the curious drinkers. A blend of semillon and sauvignon blanc fermented on skins, this “orange wine” delivers layers of apricot, spice, and a touch of funk. It’s textural and warming in a way that traditional whites aren’t — perfect for winter sipping.
Perfect with:
Spiced pork belly, pumpkin gnocchi, or a cheese board with washed rind and aged gouda.
The final pour
Winter wine drinking doesn’t have to be all about big reds and fireplace clichés. With just a little exploring, you can find local wines that surprise and delight — wines that are full of personality, pair beautifully with hearty meals, and come from right here in WA.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just looking for a new bottle to fall in love with, these drops bring a slice of the Southwest’s finest. So grab a glass, cue up your favourite winter playlist, and let the cold-weather sipping begin.
