Seven Margaret River wineries have been named among the world's top 50 in the inaugural International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) rankings, announced in London on November 12. The list includes House of Cards, Fraser Gallop Estate, Fermoy Estate, Driftwood Estate, Windance Estate, Juniper Estate, and Stones + Thunder, representing a significant achievement for the region's wine sector.
The IWSC Top 50 showcases producers from 17 countries, including France, Italy, Spain, and the USA, all recognized for setting a steep benchmark for excellence. The Margaret River wineries' inclusion highlights the area's growing global reputation.
Stones + Thunder, a single-vineyard producer from Wilyabrup, was among those listed. Owner Darran Stone expressed surprise and honor at the recognition, noting that it follows two major wins last year: the trophy for Best Margaret River Chardonnay at the James Halliday Australian Chardonnay and Cabernet Challenge, and a gong for Best Cabernet Blend at the Margaret River Wine Show.
Stone said those achievements marked an important milestone, cementing his winery's place among the region's most promising new producers. He emphasized the goal of making wines that feel alive, wild, focused, and unmistakably from their Wagtail Vineyard. He added that recognition from the IWSC is special because it builds on early domestic success and affirms that their wines hold their own on the world stage.
Stone favors a small-scale approach to maintain purity of focus on the finished product, a philosophy that has clearly resonated with judges.
