Sunset Wine Tasting Experience at Passel Estate: An Enjoyable Evening in Margaret River
If you’re visiting the Margaret River wine region in Western Australia, a sunset wine tasting at Passel Estate offers a truly special way to wind down your day. For around $79.61 per person, this roughly 90-minute experience combines award-winning wines, beautiful scenery, and a focus on nature conservation. Led by friendly staff, it’s a perfect blend of relaxation, education, and indulgence.
We love how this experience takes you beyond the usual cellar door visit by offering an intimate setting—think lush lawns, tranquil dams, and vineyards bathed in the glow of sunset. The opportunity to taste exclusive single vineyard wines while learning about wildlife preservation sets it apart from standard tastings. Plus, the pairing of wines with hand-crafted bonbons adds a sweet touch you won’t find elsewhere.
One possible drawback? Since this experience only runs in the evenings, it’s best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed, scenic close to their day. If you’re after a more structured wine tour or a full-on dinner, this might feel a little limited. Still, it’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a peaceful, picturesque way to enjoy Margaret River’s renowned wine scene.
This tour suits travelers who appreciate intimate settings, beautiful views, and a focus on sustainability alongside their wine tasting. If those elements appeal to you, you’ll find this experience a memorable highlight.
Key Points
- Beautiful Scenic Setting: Surrounded by vineyards, conservation areas, and water features, especially stunning at sunset.
- Exclusive Wines: Tasting award-winning, single vineyard wines including rare Lot 71 Reserve wines.
- Educational Component: Learn about wildlife conservation efforts directly from the estate.
- Pairings and Treats: Enjoy cheeses and hand-crafted bonbons tailored to complement your wine.
- Limited Group Size: Max of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
- Affordable Luxury: Good value considering the setting, quality wines, and added conservation contribution.
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Exploring the Experience
The Location and Atmosphere
Situated at 655 Ellen Brook Rd, Cowaramup, Passel Estate is more than just a vineyard. It’s a sanctuary of sorts, with manicured lawns, native bushland, and a dam filled with frogs and water birds. The environment itself invites you to slow down and appreciate nature’s calm. When we arrived in the late afternoon, the landscape was already beautiful, but as the sun set, the entire scene transformed into a magical backdrop for wine tasting.
The estate’s focus on wildlife conservation is evident and feels genuine. The guides tell stories of their efforts to protect local bushland and wildlife, which adds a meaningful layer to the experience. We loved the way this approach enhances the tasting—giving it a sense of purpose beyond just drinking wine.
The Itinerary Breakdown
The experience begins at 4:30 pm, giving visitors plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the surroundings before dusk. You’ll start with a private, after-hours tasting of the estate’s award-winning wines, including some rare Lot 71 Reserve bottles—an excellent opportunity for wine enthusiasts to sample unique vintages not available elsewhere. The tasting is conducted at a leisurely pace, so you can really savor each glass while soaking in the scenery.
Following the tasting, you’ll move to a comfortable outdoor setting to enjoy a generous pour of your favorite Passel Estate wine, accompanied by a platter of local, artisanal cheeses. This part of the experience is designed for relaxation, with plenty of time to chat and watch the sun dip behind the vines. The view of the sunset over the vines is a highlight—warm hues reflecting off the water and emphasizing the estate’s natural beauty.
As the evening progresses, you’re offered hand-crafted bonbons—chocolate encased treats carefully designed to pair perfectly with your wine. These are a thoughtful touch that elevates the experience and gives you a sweet ending.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour covers all alcohol and snacks, plus a $20 voucher you can use toward any bottle purchased on-site. On top of that, $15 from your booking goes directly toward conservation efforts, which adds an ethical dimension to your visit.
What’s missing? This isn’t a full dinner experience, so if you’re hungry, plan to eat beforehand or afterward. The focus is on wine, scenery, and small bites, making it ideal for a light, satisfying outing rather than a dinner.
The Group and Logistics
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the experience feels intimate and personalized. It’s perfect if you prefer avoiding large, crowded tours. The flexibility of most evenings in spring and summer, with booking required, means you can plan around your schedule. The start time of 4:30 pm aligns well with the sunset, providing optimal lighting and atmosphere.
Value and Practical Tips
Considering the price point of just under $80, this experience offers good value for those seeking more than a typical tasting. You get a comprehensive wine experience, the chance to support conservation, and a stunning setting—all in a manageable timeframe.
A tip: arrive a little early to explore the estate before it gets dark. Also, since this experience is weather-dependent, a clear evening will make the views even more spectacular.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience suits travelers who love scenic settings, quiet evenings, and learning about wildlife conservation. It’s ideal for couples looking for a romantic outing or small groups wanting an authentic taste of Margaret River’s local efforts. If you’re after a relaxed, intimate, and aesthetic experience, you’ll find this to be a charming highlight.
The Sum Up
A sunset wine tasting at Passel Estate is a beautifully balanced experience. It combines award-winning wines, breathtaking scenery, and a commitment to conservation, all wrapped into a cozy, small-group setting. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a peaceful hour-and-a-half immersed in nature, with a glass of wine in hand.
While it doesn’t include a full dinner or a structured tour, the focus on quality, scenery, and sustainability makes this a memorable, authentic taste of Margaret River. If you value scenic beauty, exclusive wines, and meaningful experiences, this tour will serve you well—and leave you with some lovely memories of your time in Western Australia.
FAQs
What is the duration of the experience?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, starting at 4:30 pm and ending back at the meeting point.
Where does the tour start?
At 655 Ellen Brook Rd, Cowaramup WA 6284, Australia.
What is included in the price?
You get alcoholic beverages, snacks, a $20 voucher to purchase bottles, and a donation of $15 toward conservation efforts.
Are there any additional costs?
No, but you might want to buy a bottle or two with your voucher. Dinners are not included, so plan accordingly.
Is it suitable for children or service animals?
Service animals are allowed; however, the experience is designed for adults and small groups, so children may not find it as engaging.
How many people can participate?
A maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
Can I book on any evening?
Most evenings during Spring and Summer, but booking is essential and should be made in advance.
What if it rains?
Since the experience is outdoors, bad weather might affect the tour. Check the weather forecast and confirm your booking if rain is expected.
Is there a dress code?
Casual, comfortable clothing suited for outdoor settings and evening temperatures.
Do I need to make a reservation?
Yes, booking is mandatory, especially during busy seasons.
Enjoy your visit to Margaret River, and don’t forget your camera—those sunset views are worth capturing.