Premium Margaret River Wine + Beer Tour (Departs from Busselton)

Planning a day in Margaret River? While the region is famed for its world-class wines and craft breweries, choosing the right experience can be tricky. This particular tour, offered by Tannin Road Wine Tours, promises a premium taste of the area’s best — and from what we’ve gathered, it’s a well-rounded, enjoyable day for lovers of both vino and brews.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides really enhance the experience, sharing stories and insights that deepen your appreciation. Second, the variety of venues—from boutique wineries to a top brewery—offers a well-balanced day of tasting and relaxation. Lastly, the delicious lunch at Beerfarm adds a hearty touch that many travelers appreciate after an active morning.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the limited number of wineries—typically three—so if you’re expecting to visit four or five, this might be a slight letdown. Still, the curated selection and personal touches tend to outweigh this minor point. This tour is ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a seamless, authentic Margaret River experience without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 11) for a more intimate experience
• All-inclusive with tastings, lunch, and transport
• Knowledgeable guides provide local insights and tips
• Diverse venues combine boutique wineries with a brewery
• Flexible itinerary based on weather and group interests
• Great value for a full day of curated wine and beer tastings

A Practical Look at the Margaret River Food & Drink Experience

This tour is priced at $122.34 per person, which, when you consider the full day’s activities—multiple tastings, a hearty lunch, and transportation—represents solid value. The trip spans 6 to 7 hours, starting with a pickup from your accommodation in Busselton. The well-maintained, air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the roughly half-hour drive between stops, making the journey as pleasant as the destinations.

The tour’s main goal is to showcase award-winning wineries and a renowned brewery, providing tastings that are both generous and guided by passionate experts. The small group size allows for a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get personalized recommendations. The tour’s flexible approach means the itinerary may shift depending on weather, venue availability, and group interests — so it’s always a tailored experience rather than a rigid schedule.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Busselton Pickup

Your day kicks off with a friendly, informative pickup from your accommodation at around 9:45 am. The driver, likely a local with good knowledge of the region, will give you a snapshot of Margaret River’s highlights as you travel. Expect a modern, spacious vehicle designed for comfort, perfect for relaxing before the tastings begin.

Stop 2: Passel Estate – A Hidden Gem

Your first winery is Passel Estate, a boutique family-run operation set amid stunning natural landscapes. Known for its elegant wines crafted by Bruce Drakes, Passel is a place where conservation and quality go hand in hand. Guests have raved about the serene vineyard setting and the chance to learn about sustainability efforts. The visit lasts an hour, with free tastings that showcase the estate’s meticulous craftsmanship. Reviewers mention the wines are “meticulously crafted” and the ambiance peaceful, making it a calming start to your day.

Stop 3: Ls Merchants – For Funky, Small-Batch Wines

Next, you’ll visit Ls Merchants, a boutique winery famed for minimal intervention, innovative blends, and adventurous flavors. This stop is described as fun and down-to-earth, with plenty of liquid surprises and laughs. Expect a lively atmosphere where you can appreciate the creativity behind small-batch wines. Guests appreciated the chance to explore unique flavors, making it stand out from more commercial wineries.

Stop 4: Temper Temper Fine Chocolate – A Sweet Interlude

For those with a sweet tooth, Temper Temper in Cowaramup is a delightful treat. Here, you can sample artisanal chocolates, handcrafted with the finest ingredients. The reviews highlight the mouthwatering flavors and the fun of discovering new combinations. It’s worth noting that this stop is omitted during school holidays and long weekends, so check in advance if chocolate is a highlight for you.

Stop 5: Beerfarm – The Heart of Local Brews

Set on 160 acres of the Aussie countryside, Beerfarm offers a relaxed vibe with hearty pub-style food and excellent beers. This is a highlight for many travelers, who enjoy tasting local brews while soaking up the rustic atmosphere. Reviewers love the generous lunch and the chance to unwind outdoors. The experience blends the best of Margaret River’s food scene with a laid-back, friendly environment.

Stop 6: Fermoy Estate – A Royal Connection

Fermoy Estate is a showcase of quality, with its Cabernet Sauvignon famously served at a Danish Royal wedding. Visitors can learn what makes this winery so special, and the wines are described as fit for royalty. The visit lasts around an hour, with guided tastings in a beautiful setting.

Stop 7: Lenton Brae Winery – Relax and Unwind

Your last winery is Lenton Brae, which offers a picturesque spot overlooking a lake or inside by the cozy fireplace. Guests often mention the lawn games, deli, and laid-back vibe as perfect ways to end their day. Drinks are at your own expense, but the environment encourages lingering and socializing.

Return to Busselton

After a scenic drive back, expect to arrive around 4 pm, with the chance to reflect on a day filled with exquisite wines, craft beers, and beautiful views.

What We Love About This Tour

Knowledgeable Guides: Guests frequently praise the guides’ expertise, friendly attitude, and ability to share local insights. Their stories and tips elevate the experience, helping you understand what makes Margaret River special.

Diverse Venues: The mix of boutique wineries, a chocolate shop, and a brewery ensures a well-rounded taste of the region’s offerings, catering to different palates and interests.

Authentic Experiences: The focus on small, family-run wineries and local brews creates an intimate feel that large tours often lack. Guests appreciated the genuine, relaxed atmosphere.

Great Value: Considering the tastings, lunch, transportation, and professional guides, most find the price of around $122 to be reasonable for a full-day premium experience.

Flexibility: The tour adapts to weather conditions and group preferences, making every day unique and tailored.

Some Considerations

While the experience is mostly positive, a few guests expressed surprise that only three wineries are visited instead of four or five, which was their expectation based on the description. The itinerary may shift, so managing expectations about the number of stops is wise. Plus, all drinks at the final stop are at your own cost, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge further.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for wine and beer enthusiasts looking for a curated, relaxed day. It suits small groups or couples who want a personalized experience without the stress of planning. The focus on boutique venues and authentic tastings makes it ideal for travelers seeking genuine connections with local producers. If you enjoy good food, scenic views, and a touch of luxury, this experience will likely tick all your boxes.

FAQ

What is the cost of the tour?
It’s $122.34 per person, which includes tastings, lunch, transport, and a guided experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 6 to 7 hours, including pick-up and drop-off.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Busselton, with pickup from your accommodation around 9:45 am.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, but you need to advise the tour provider at least 7 days prior to the tour for specific needs.

How many stops are included?
Typically, the tour features visits to three wineries, a chocolate shop (seasonal), and a brewery. The exact venues may vary.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the journey is in a clean, spacious, air-conditioned vehicle designed for relaxed travel.

Can children join?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, but the tour is mainly designed for adult tasting experiences.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are the tastings guided?
Yes, each stop includes guided tastings, with knowledgeable hosts sharing insights about the wines and beers.

Final Thoughts

For those eager to explore Margaret River’s alcohol scene without the hassle of planning, this tour from Busselton offers a compelling mix of quality, comfort, and authentic local flavor. It’s especially suited for small groups and couples who want to enjoy premium wines, craft beers, and delicious food in a relaxed environment. Although the number of winery visits might be fewer than some expect, the curated selection, expert guidance, and scenic stops create a memorable day that balances indulgence with insight.

If you’re after a seamless, well-organized day of tasting and learning with a friendly, knowledgeable guide, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to check the itinerary details if visiting multiple wineries is your main goal, and prepare to indulge in some of Margaret River’s finest offerings.

Note: Always reconfirm dietary needs and check the final itinerary a day before, especially since venues or stops may vary based on weather or operational considerations.