The Soul of Margaret River: A Journey with UMAMU Estate
Margaret River: A Deeply Personal Journey
Margaret River holds a special place in my heart, beyond the vines and wines it has given us over the years. It’s not just an exceptional wine region for me; it’s a legacy, a tribute to my parents, and a reflection of balance and contentment—values that I try to instill in everything we do at UMAMU Estate. Each year, I find myself drawn back to Margaret River for the harvest, continuing a journey my parents began, one I feel honored to carry forward with every vintage we produce.
Margaret River: A World-Class Wine Region
When I think of Margaret River, it’s impossible not to feel a sense of pride. This region has built a global reputation for being one of the best wine-growing areas in the world, and I am constantly reminded of why it’s so special. Nestled in a pristine coastal setting with a Mediterranean climate, it has become known for producing some of Australia’s finest wines. While it only accounts for about 5% of the country’s overall wine production, Margaret River contributes over 20% of Australia’s premium wines. For me and UMAMU Estate, the value of this place goes beyond the grapes—it’s about family, traditions, and the sense of care that goes into every bottle we produce.
Climate, Soils, and Terroir: The Heart of Margaret River Wines
What makes Margaret River so unique for winemaking is its terroir. The maritime climate, with influences from both the Indian and Southern Oceans, creates a consistent environment for growing. It ensures a slow and gentle ripening process, which is key to developing wines with beautiful balance and complexity. Then there are the ancient gravelly loam soils. These soils, although low in nutrients, are perfect for encouraging vines to establish deep roots, producing low-yielding, intensely flavoured fruit. For me, this harmony between climate, soil, and vine age aligns so closely with our philosophy at UMAMU—crafting wines that embody balance and contentment.
A Personal Pilgrimage
Margaret River is much more than a wine region for me—it’s an integral part of my family’s story. Each year, I make a pilgrimage back to this place, where I not only pick the grapes but reconnect with the land and our family vineyard. This isn’t just about the harvest; it’s my way of honouring my parents and the incredible vision they had when they fell in love with Margaret River decades ago. Walking through the vineyard, with vines planted as far back as 1978, is a deeply personal experience. It’s a testament to their hard work, passion, and belief in the magic of this place. Every bottle we produce is a continuation of their dream.
The Legacy of UMAMU Estate
UMAMU Estate has come a long way since those early days, and I’m proud of what we’ve built. From our structured Cabernet Sauvignon to the Chardonnay that originally brought my parents to this region, each wine reflects the passion and perseverance that has guided us. We’ve been fortunate to receive recognition for our efforts, but for me, the most important thing is honouring the past while also nurturing the future. I want every sip of UMAMU wine to offer a taste of the balance and contentment that defines our estate and my family’s values.
Margaret River isn’t just where our vineyard sits—it’s the heart of everything we do. With each vintage, I’m reminded of the magic of this place, and I’m committed to crafting wines that stay true to its essence and to my family’s legacy.