Our History

The vineyard site was selected because of the rich red Karri loam soil on slopes facing northeast. This was planted with Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon in 1978, less than 10 years behind the region Pioneers. Semillon and Merlot were planted in 1979 and a second block on Pinot Noir in 1988.

Graham & Sue Connell purchased the property in 1991 and in 1994 planted the last remaining suitable area of 1 hectare with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, bringing the total under vines to 8 hectares.

Operated as a boutique family vineyard with youngest son Andrew, our grapes were sold to some of Margaret River's finest wineries. In 2003 small amounts of fruit were kept for our new Cavalier Crest label. In 2004 a larger quantity of fruit was retained and in 2005 we were excited to be able to retain all fruit for our own use.

All vines are on drip irrigation, however the now mature vines only receive water in exceptionally dry years to prevent excessive stress. Nets are extensively used to protect the ripening grapes from silvereyes, parrots and crows. Ducks, geese, guinea fowl and chickens free range the vineyard to eliminate the use of undesirable pesticides.

Located 300 km. south of Perth, 8 km. east of Witchcliffe in picturesque Rosa Glen a classified cool climate grape region on one of the highest sites in the Margaret River region, elevation 120m.