MARGARET RIVER IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA IS ONLY 4 HOURS FLIGHT FROM KUALA LUMPUR YET A WORLD APART!

KEE@FSWMAG.COM

Go behind the scenes with Virginia Willcock, Chief Winemaker at the Margaret River region's founding wine estate, Vasse Felix. Gourmet Escape: that's a wrap! The Margaret River region was once again flooded with foodie royalty over the Gourmet Escape weekend, with some of the top names in the industry gracing local kitchens and cooking for their Aussie fans. Before the weekend got into full swing, we met up with 3-Michelin Star chef Pierre Koffman, master of French cuisine  Guillaume Brahimi, and Sydney’s Momofuku Seiōbo Executive Chef Paul Carmichael to get their initial impressions of Margaret River and our unique south west produce. Trip ideas: Five Day Adult Getaway Spend five blissful days in Busselton and Margaret River, indulging in artisan cheese, chocolate and world class wines. Marvel at the ancient beauty of Jewel Cave and be awed by the incredible Tuart and Karri forests. Trip ideas: A Special Occasion Yallingup Getaway Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or popping the question, we have the perfect itinerary for you. Young Guns: exciting young, talented winemakers The times they are a changing in the world of wine. There are adventurous winemakers doing things that would raise the eyebrows of traditionalists. There’s wine being made with stalks, infused with herbs, fermented in ceramic eggsshells or stored in clay ‘Roman style’ amphorae pots. Antiques and Vintage Shopping in the Margaret River region A meander through antique stores admiring the craftsmanship and ingenuity of yesteryear is not only comforting, but a great way to find yourself something unique to keep forever. Find yourself a gem... Vasse Felix named ‘New World Winery of the Year’ Leading USA publication Wine Enthusiast made the announcement at its 18th annual Wine Star Awards. Vasse Felix beat Stellenbosch (De Toren), Auckland (Kumeu River), Argentina (Trapiche) and Chile (Vina Ventisquero), to receive the coveted award. Brookwood Estate Labour of Love Trevor and Lyn Mann established Brookwood Estate in 1996. They transformed a “bare paddock – with 250 sheep” into a lush winery with five varietals in the vineyard and a peaceful café-restaurant. This family poured their heart and soul into Brookwood - and you'll love what they've created!  Spending Christmas or New Year's in Margaret River? Contact the friendly staff at the Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association on 9780 5911 for recommendations, special offers and booking enquiries. Bubbles & Blooms 2 December 2017 Howard Park & MadFish Wines are throwing a Bubbles & Blooms event to celebrate all things sparkling! Feast on cheese or dumplings  & lounge on the shady lawn as you take in the tunes of Doug & Cletus. WA Circus Festival 26/27/28  January Tickets are now on sale for the 2018 Western Australian Circus Festival. Set on a beautiful private property in Karridale, the festival host more than 100 circus, cabaret, comedy and theatre stars. The Leeuwin Concert 2018 24 March 2018 Iconic singer-songwriter Jackson Browne will perform the 34th annual Leeuwin Concert at Leeuwin Estate Winery, Margaret River. Old Kent River Wine Old Kent River recently opened the doors to its new Cellar Door and released several new Margaret River regional wines. Its original vineyard was planted in 1985 and is located on the southern boundary of the Frankland River sub region of the Great Southern Wine Region. Groups over 8 are asked to call ahead and make a booking. Little Brother This lively new venue is the brainchild of Black Brewing Co owners Stewart Sampson and Rob Johnston offering a unique establishment in the heart of Dunsborough. The menu has a range of small plates to share with something to please everyone. It also has a number of vats behind the bar where they serve up craft beer from Black Brewing Co. The River Hotel Formerly known as the "Knights Inn" and Margaret River Resort, THE RIVER hosts a stunning front bar, casual restaurant and open courtyard. After a considerable refurbishment, the Hotel offers an exciting menu, casual dining and quality drinks in a relaxed, comfortable pub environment. Yarri - opening soon Chef Aaron Carr and the Snake + Herring team have teamed up to bring an exciting new venue, Yarri,  to Dunsborough. Construction of the restaurant and small bar, located next to Dugalup creek, is well underway and the team hope to be open in January. We love checking out your #margaretriver snaps on social. Here are a few of the best of late.   @katehoffman  @timcampbellphoto @philipscrimgeour