The name Five Virtues alludes to the five elements that form the Great Southern region: the maritime sub-regions of Albany and Denmark, where the spectacular Southern Ocean pounds an unspoilt coastline of dramatic cliffs, sheltered coves and sweeping sandy bays fringed by pristine forest, to the inland sub-regions of Mount Barker, Porongurup and Frankland River, where rolling pastoral land patchworked with vineyards and olive groves meets ancient granite ranges.
But it also refers to the five schools of thought and belief that each sub-region brings to the project: essentially producers and industry bringing the best of their talents and products to unite under one vision, the common cause of promoting their region and capturing its spirit through the creation of a definitive Great Southern Shiraz of outstanding quality.
Albany
This sub-region took off viticulturally after the whaling industry came to an end in the late 1970's. Soil conditions in this sub-region are not preferred so sites for vineyards have to be selected carefully. The climate is Mediterranean/maritime with the winds and humidity levels. The leading style coming from this region is Pinot Noir.
The city of Albany is a perfect place to stay for the wine enthusiast, as it is the main centre for the whole of the Great Southern wine region.
Denmark
The town of Denmark was named after an English Naval surgeon, Dr Alexander Denmark. In recent years, tourism around Denmark has been accentuated by the growing interest in wine tourism. Denmark is located 59 km from Albany and is the most recent sub-region within the Great Southern region. The town is close to the sea and has a typical Mediterranean climate with long dry summers and rainy winters. The soils are comprised of the "marri" and "karri" loams that are very well suited to vine growth.
The sub-region is mainly devoted to the production of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. However, there are also many other styles grown including: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon.
Frankland River
The establishment of Frankland River for wine production marked the very beginning of the Great Southern Wine region as a whole. The soils are the granite influenced "marri" type that is highly productive. It is the furthest inland of the sub-regions, and the climate is Mediterranean. The styles that are grown in this sub-region are very diverse and of premium quality.
Grape varieties of this region include: Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc & Malbec.
Mount Barker
Mount Barker is also located inland, is a little higher and experiences different climatic conditions. It is the coolest sub-region in Western Australia. Though still Mediterranean, there are lower humidity levels and more sunshine. The "marri" soils are perfect for drainage.
This sub-region is producing world-class quality wines winning many awards, which are showcased at the annual D’Vine Wine Festival held in January. The most sought after wines produced inn this area are Riesling, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Other varieties produced include: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc & Merlot.
Porongurup
This quaint sub-region lies just east of Mount Barker has fantastic views of the Stirling Ranges. Vines are grown in the "karri" soils. The climate is Mediterranean, and the higher elevation of the area gives rise to distinctive wine character. This sub-region also has its own event, the Porongurup Wine Festival, held in March each year.
Wine varieties include:
Chardonnay, Riesling, Semillon, Verdelho, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot & Shiraz.