Margaret River: Sparkling Wine Flight Tasting at Howard Park

Margaret River: Sparkling Wine Flight Tasting at Howard Park
Location: Western Australia, Australia
Price: $20 per person
Duration: 1 hour
Supplier: Howard Park Wines

A sparkling experience in Margaret River that combines wine, history, and a touch of elegance

This tour takes you to the renowned Howard Park Winery in Margaret River, where you’ll get to taste a flight of five sparkling wines for just $20 per person. In about an hour, you’ll learn not only about the different styles of sparkling wine crafted here but also soak in the unique history of the winery and the passionate Burch family—whose background in ballet adds a charming touch to their story.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to compare a variety of sparkling wines—from Glera, Chardonnay, to Pinot Noir—made using both traditional and Charmat methods. Plus, the small group size (limited to 10 people) ensures an intimate, relaxed atmosphere where questions are encouraged.

One potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t include transportation or meals, so planning your arrival is important. It’s perfect for wine lovers seeking a compact, educational tasting, whether you’re new to sparkling wines or already a connoisseur eager to deepen your knowledge.

Key Points

• Affordable Quality: The $20 price provides access to five high-quality sparkling wines, making it a great value.
• Educational Insight: Learn about the winemaking process, different styles, and the history of Howard Park.
• Unique Variety: Tasting both méthode traditionelle and Charmat method wines offers a well-rounded experience.
• Family Heritage: The Burch family’s background, including ballet, adds a personal touch, making the story more memorable.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly vibe.
• Optional Winery Tour: There’s a chance to explore the winery further for an extra cost, if you wish to extend your visit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Howard Park Sparkling Wine Flight Experience

Location and Setting
Howard Park Winery is positioned in the heart of Margaret River, a region celebrated for its wine. The cellar door offers a welcoming environment—bright, modern, with plenty of space for tasting and learning. Since Howard Park is the largest producer of méthode champenoise wines in Western Australia, it’s a fitting spot to explore sparkling wines—an area of growing prestige for the region.

The Tasting Line-up
For just $20, you’ll sample five sparkling wines, each selected to showcase different styles and grapes. The lineup includes sparkling wines made from Glera (the primary grape in Prosecco), Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. This variety ensures you can compare different flavor profiles—crisp, fruity, or creamy—depending on the method used and grape blend.

Educational Focus
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of fun and education. Your guide, who is fluent in English and knowledgeable about the winery and wines, explains the winemaking methods—from traditional méthode traditionnelle (second fermentation in the bottle, similar to Champagne) to the Charmat method (tank fermentation). The explanation of how different grapes and techniques influence flavor is particularly useful for those new to sparkling wines.

The Burch Family Story
A charming aspect is learning about the Burch family, who own Howard Park. Their background in ballet adds a personal, somewhat poetic dimension to their story, emphasizing their dedication and artistry—traits that are reflected in their wines. This narrative creates a richer context for appreciating the craftsmanship behind each glass.

Taste and Compare
Guests have expressed appreciation for the ability to taste award-winning wines and compare them side by side. For many, this tasting is an eye-opener—highlighting how diverse sparkling wines can be, even when made in the same region. One reviewer notes, “We loved the way the wines ranged from light and bubbly to more complex, showing the versatility of the region.”

The Winery Tour (Optional)
While the main experience focuses on the tasting, there is an option to tour the winery for an additional fee. This is a good choice if you want to see the production process firsthand, but it does require extra planning and time.

What To Expect During Your Hour at Howard Park

Arrival and Introduction
Once you arrive at the cellar door, you’re welcomed into a cozy, well-organized tasting room. Your guide introduces the wines, explaining what makes Howard Park notable in Western Australia’s sparkling wine scene.

The Flight of Wines
You’ll receive a tasting sheet and sample each wine in turn, with expert commentary on their flavor profile, production method, and grape variety. The guide’s approachable manner makes it easy for both novices and enthusiasts to follow along and ask questions.

Learning Moment
Throughout the tasting, you’ll gain insights into the differences between sparkling wine styles. For example, the méthode traditionnelle wines tend to be more complex, often with yeasty or brioche notes, while the Charmat method produces fresher, fruit-forward bubbles.

Family and History Stories
Between tastings, the guide shares stories about the Burch family’s history, their passion for wine, and their unexpected ballet connection. These personal touches add warmth and help you feel connected to the wines’ story.

Optional Winery Tour
If you choose, you can extend your visit with a tour of the winery, which provides a behind-the-scenes look at how these wines are crafted.

Why This Tasting Offers More Than Just Drinking

Authentic Experience
This isn’t just about sipping wine; it’s an opportunity to learn. You come away with a better understanding of how sparkling wines are made, the grapes involved, and what distinguishes different styles.

Valuable for All Levels
Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or a complete beginner, the guide’s explanations and the variety of wines make this a useful, accessible experience. Several reviewers mention that even those new to sparkling wine found the session “informative and fun,” while connoisseurs appreciated the tasting nuances.

A Perfect Short Activity
In just one hour, you get a focused, meaningful experience without the long commitment of a full-day tour. It’s an excellent way to add a special touch to your Margaret River visit or to break up day trips with an engaging activity.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit

• Plan your transport: Since no transportation is included, consider arranging a designated driver or joining a guided tour that includes transportation if needed.
• Arrive early or on time: The tasting usually takes place in the morning or afternoon; arriving promptly ensures you get the full hour.
• Reserve in advance: Small groups fill quickly, especially during peak seasons.
• No meals included: If you want to extend your experience, plan to grab a snack or lunch nearby before or after the tasting.
• Age restrictions: Participants must be 18 or older, so if traveling with minors, consider this activity as a side experience.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This tasting is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to explore the world of sparkling wines in a relaxed, intimate setting. It’s equally suited to curious beginners who want a straightforward, educational introduction without the fuss of a large tour. If you’re interested in the story behind the wine—from family heritage to winemaking techniques—you’ll find this experience enriching.

It’s also a good pick for travelers seeking value for money — a modest fee for a premium tasting, with the chance to learn and taste wines that have won awards. Plus, those with a penchant for small-group, personalized experiences will find this a highlight of their Margaret River trip.

Final Thoughts

A visit to Howard Park for a sparkling wine flight offers a balanced mix of taste, education, and personal stories. You’ll walk away with a better appreciation for the craftsmanship behind sparkling wines, as well as a sense of connection to Margaret River’s burgeoning wine scene.

This experience is best suited for those who love wine, enjoy learning about different styles, or simply want a fun, relaxed activity that doesn’t demand a full day. It’s a delightful way to indulge your senses without breaking the bank, especially if you’re curious about how sparkling wines are made or want a memorable story to tell.

For anyone looking for a well-rounded, authentic, and affordable wine experience in Margaret River, this tasting at Howard Park is a solid choice that combines quality, personality, and value.

FAQ

Is the tasting suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guide explains the differences between styles and methods in an accessible way, and you don’t need prior knowledge to enjoy it.

Are the wines gluten-free?
While not explicitly stated, most wines are naturally gluten-free, but if you have specific allergies or sensitivities, it’s best to check directly with the winery.

Can I buy bottles at the end of the tasting?
Yes, Howard Park offers wines for purchase, so if you find a favorite, you can take some home.

Is there a dress code?
There’s no formal dress code; casual smart is fine—think comfortable but tidy.

How long does the whole experience last?
The tasting itself lasts about one hour, and additional activities like a winery tour may extend your visit if you choose.

Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, the guide provides commentary in English.

What if I can’t attend after booking?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving flexibility if plans change.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to deepen your appreciation for sparkling wines, Howard Park’s tasting in Margaret River offers a friendly, informative, and tasty experience that’s hard to beat at this price point.

You can check availability for your dates here: