Ep 6. Margaret River

The Taste of Australia season 2 episode 6 takes a trip to the stunning Margaret River, located in the southwestern region of Western Australia. The episode starts with a birds-eye-view of the town's stunning landscapes and explains how it's become a hub for winemaking, surfing, and world-class dining experiences.

The host takes us on a journey to visit some of the Margaret River region's most iconic wineries, starting with Vasse Felix, the oldest winery in the region. The winery's founder, Dr. Tom Cullity, is considered the father of Margaret River wine and pioneered the region's winemaking industry in the 1960s. We explore their vineyards and cellar door before sitting down for a tasting of their award-winning chardonnays and cabernet sauvignons alongside a delicious locally sourced cheese board.

Next, we visit Leeuwin Estate, a beautiful vineyard that has been producing premium wines since 1979. The winery is renowned for hosting incredible outdoor concerts featuring international performers such as Sting and Bob Dylan. We get a glimpse of the estate's stunning concert grounds before touring their modern winemaking facilities. Our host meets with a Leeuwin winemaker to learn about their approach to winemaking and taste some of their famous artisanal bread and local olive oil alongside their signature bordeaux style red wine.

The episode then shifts gears to take us to Margaret River's vibrant surf scene. Our host joins a local surf instructor to catch a few waves and learn about how the cool sea breezes help create the region's unique wine flavors. We get a glimpse of some of the best surfing spots and hear about how locals and tourists alike are drawn to the ocean's beauty and power.

After a day of wine and surfing, our host takes us to one of the region's top dining experiences - Cape Lodge. The luxurious hotel surrounded by lush gardens and vineyards is known for its excellent restaurant, which offers a seasonal menu showcasing local ingredients. We hear from the chef about the importance of using fresh ingredients and how he partners with local farmers and producers to create unique, flavorful dishes. We sit down to enjoy a meal that includes beef tenderloin, smoked trout, and a dessert featuring local honey and fresh seasonal fruits.

The episode concludes with a visit to Lake Cave, one of the region's many stunning limestone caves. Our host explores the hidden wonders of this magical place, including crystal formations and a mesmerizing underground lake. The cave is situated within the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, which boasts some of Western Australia's most diverse natural landscapes, including pristine beaches, ancient forests, and wildlife.

In conclusion, Taste of Australia season 2 episode 6 offers a glimpse into the beauty, creativity, and flavors of the magical Margaret River region. From scenic vineyards and award-winning wineries to picturesque beaches, fantastic surfing, and gastronomic delights, the episode offers a unique perspective on this incredible Australian destination.