Second-generation family estate making certified organic Riesling and Syrah on the ironstone soils of Isolation Ridge, Frankland River
Frankland River is one of the inland subregions of Great Southern, in the far south-west of Western Australia. Its climate is continental, with more temperature variability than the maritime coast around Denmark and Albany.
Isolation Ridge sits about 256 m above sea level on undulating northern and eastern slopes. The soils are duplex, ironstone gravel and loam over a clay subsoil, and the family calls this ironstone 'coffee rock' the classic soil of the property. Cool nights and a long, slow ripening season build flavour while keeping the acidity bright.
Judi Cullam and the late Barrie Smith planted the first vines in 1988, diversifying from wool-growing in the Frankland River district. Their children Hunter and Elizabeth Smith now run the estate, with Elizabeth's husband Brian Kent at the winemaking helm since 2010.
Isolation Ridge achieved organic certification in 2009, and a flock of guinea fowl works the rows for insects.