Our Story

The Story of Ferngrove Wines: A Journey of Isolation, Passion, and Perfection

In the heart of Western Australia's Great Southern wine region, where the land stretches out in rolling hills and rich pastoral lands, Ferngrove Wines has established itself as a preeminent Great Southern wine producer. Our Winery and Estate, located 360km south of Perth, is one of the most isolated vineyard locations in the world - a solitude that sets the stage for a truly unique winemaking story.

The story of Ferngrove begins in 1998 when the three founders Murray Burton, Merve Lange and Ted Avery unearthed this exceptional area of land. Situated 90 kilometres inland from the coastline, the valleys and slopes of the Frankland River region were untouched and raw, yet brimming with potential. It was the perfect place to cultivate vines, where ancient, rugged soils rich in history met the gentle, cooling embrace of the Southern and Indian Oceans. The land was wild, pristine, and, in many ways, untouched by time.

This special combination of elements - isolated terrain, ancient soils, and the moderating cool influence of the nearby oceans—created an ideal environment for vines to thrive. Grapes here ripen slowly, nurtured by nature's rhythm, allowing the winemakers the luxury of time to perfect their craft. The remote location, while challenging in terms of logistics, became a symbol of the dedication and commitment at the heart of Ferngrove.

For the team at Ferngrove, isolation is not a barrier; it is a chance to be pioneers and visionaries. Every member of the team is driven by a shared belief: great wine is born not only from the land but from a deep respect for the process of winemaking itself. Here, there is no rush. Every grape, every vine, and every bottle reflects the care, attention, and time invested in it.

The remoteness has cultivated a spirit of resilience in the people who work there - a team of experienced winemakers who are as passionate about the land as they are about the wines they create. They know that great wine does not happen overnight. It takes patience. It takes a keen eye. It takes dedication. But most importantly, it takes an understanding of the land—a bond forged over time.

Ferngrove’s wines are a true reflection of their origins. Each grape variety tells the story of its birthplace—the land, the weather, the people, and the commitment to excellence that spans over two decades. From the first vine planted in 1998 to the award-winning wines enjoyed today, Ferngrove has always stayed true to its roots, blending tradition with innovation and creating wines that are as unique as Ferngrove itself.

Now, as Ferngrove celebrates over 25 years of winemaking, the story is just beginning. With each vintage, the estate continues to push the boundaries of what is possible, while honouring the past and the timeless connection between the land and the winemaker.

At Ferngrove Wines, it is not just about crafting exceptional wines - it is about telling a story of passion, patience, and a deep respect for nature’s rhythms. A story that will continue to unfold, bottle by bottle, for generations to come.