Forest Springs

Forest Springs is a very unique property located in the Wilyabrup Valley, an area renowned for its super premium wines and closely located to many of the top vineyards and restaurants in the Margaret River region. The property is about 10 acres, nestled into the corner of the Wilyabrup reserve, with a natural river/spring running through the property and a dam providing very good water supply year round. Most of the properties near Forest Springs are tightly held and have been owned by the same families for many years, most of whom are involved in farming and viticulture.<br/><br/>The property was previously owned by a well-respected Viticulturalist, who lived on the property with his family for many years. The vines were planted in the early 1990's, at around the time the current house was built. Over the years, the grapes from Forest Springs were sold to producers such as Woodlands, Cullens, Pierros and Hay Shed Hill. The property was also used for grazing sheep, a few cattle and growing vegetables.<br/><br/>About 8 years ago, a decision was made to graft the vines over to chardonnay. This decision was made in conjunction with some local viticultural experts that deemed the site to be ideal for high quality chardonnay. Having one variety also simplifies management of the property. Over $50,000 has been invested in the transition of the vines through grafting and new plantings. The chardonnay grapes are of a very high quality and are currently being supplied to a local vineyard.<br/>The vineyard is managed by a local winemaker/grower. The owners pay for organic fertilisers and the winemaker provides the labour. At the end of the harvest, they split the proceeds. Last year just under 5 tonne was produced.<br/><br/>The current owners had some design sketches prepared with the intent of building a new home to make the most of the unique perspective. <br/><br/>The existing home has enjoyed modest improvements including new appliances and a fresh paint throughout. The sellers have also started the process of increasing the power supply to the house.<br/><br/>New fences were put in around the vineyard a number of years ago. Fencing around the paddock is in poor quality and would need to be upgraded in order to run any livestock. The vineyard is irrigated from a pump at the dam, but is rarely required. <br/><br/>