Each vintage at Fraser Gallop Estate is shaped by the season, but more importantly, it defines what you will taste in the glass in the years ahead. For those who follow our wines closely, 2026 is a vintage worth noting. It is one that brings together clarity of fruit, natural balance, and the quiet precision that defines our single-vineyard approach.
In the vineyard
Ripening conditions have been close to ideal, with warm, sunny days and cool nights allowing the fruit to progress steadily while retaining natural acidity and freshness. The season has been remarkably clean, with no untimely rain, minimal bird pressure, no disease pressure and no heat spikes.
Flavour development arrived early across all varieties, giving us the luxury of picking purely on balance. Fruit has come into the winery in excellent condition, showing strong varietal definition and natural harmony.
“Along with 2018 and 2023, this is definitely an almost perfect season.”
Mike Bolas, Viticulturist
In the winery
Ferments have been healthy and consistent, progressing at a steady pace. It has been a calm and controlled vintage, allowing for precision in both picking and winemaking — the same dry-farmed, hand-picked, minimal-intervention approach we’ve followed since the first vines went into the ground at Wilyabrup in 1999.
“A true Goldilocks vintage, with all signs pointing to wines of both immediate appeal and long-term cellaring potential.”
Ellin Tritt, Head Winemaker
How 2026 compares
Margaret River continues to show its remarkable consistency, with a strong run of vintages since 2022. The 2026 season draws clear parallels to 2018, combining excellent flavour concentration, natural acidity and overall balance.
When to expect the wines
From here, the wines will begin to emerge gradually.
The first releases from the 2026 vintage — our Estate Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Rosé — are expected mid-year.
The Parterre and Palladian Chardonnay and Parterre Semillon Sauvignon Blanc will rest in barrel until December, with release anticipated in late 2027.
The Parterre and Palladian Cabernet Sauvignon, along with other red blends, will continue to mature in oak into next year, with release to follow in 2028.
One vigneron, one vineyard, one vision — 2026 may prove to be the clearest expression yet.
