811 Puzey Road, Wilyabrup WA 6280

Forest Springs

Forest Springs is a very unique property located in the Wilyabrup Valley, an area renown 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.

The property was purchased by the current owner in 2003 from the former vineyard manager of Sandalford and a well regarded Viticulturalist, Barry Thompson, 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. Barry also used the property for grazing sheep, a few cattle and growing vegetables that he sold in the markets in Perth.

About 7 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.

The current owners had some architectural sketches prepared with the intent of building a new home to make the most of the unique perspective. As their children have moved overseas for university, they no longer have the time to spend down south so have decided, somewhat reluctantly, to sell the property.
The management of the vineyard is contracted to AHA Viticulture that co-ordinates general vineyard maintenance, spraying, pruning, netting, picking and fire breaks. The grapes are sold to a local vineyard and there is currently strong demand for high quality chardonnay grapes. 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. A local gardener looks after the garden around the house, but this work has been kept to a minimum, while plans were in place to rebuild and develop the house.

*Please note that while best effort is made to ensure rates are correct at time of listing, they are provided for reference only and may be subject to change. Chattels depicted or described are not included in the sale unless specified in the Offer and Acceptance. The seller has the right to sell prior to the closing date.