Why You Need to Visit Jane Brook Winery in the Swan Valley

2017 is the year for visiting the Swan Valley Wineries (for me and you)! On the 2nd of January this year I set myself a goal – to re-visit all the wineries in the Swan Valley and blog about them. I want to keep my Swan Valley Wineries Guide as fresh as possible, as it’s quite a popular wee hub here on the blog. So I have started on my goal asap – Mr. Spittoon and I headed off to Jane Brook Estate the other day for a spot of wine tasting and lunch.

We haven’t had the chance to have lunch at Jane Brook prior to this. Back in 2015 we did indulge in an awesome high tea they put on as part of the end of vintage celebrations in the Swan Valley – therefore I definitely knew they could serve up some good food. And naturally I have popped in for a number of tastings at the cellar door over the years so I knew the wine would keep me happy.

Quick Facts

Location: 229 Toodyay Rd, Middle Swan 6056 (30 minutes drive from the Perth CBD or 40 minutes via public transport)
Contact Number: (08) 9274 1432
Open Times: 10am – 5pm 7 days per week (please double check public holiday hours)
Wine tasting cost: Free!
Food available: Lunch
Website: janebrook.com.au

The Cellar Door – Wine Tasting

You step straight into the Jane Brook cellar door when you enter. It’s a rather interesting cellar door with a lot of history around the place, including a little alcove wine cellar. There’s barrels and tanks around the place which really gives you the vibe that this family run winery is absolutely passionate about what they do.

I like that they have a nice long bench at the cellar door, this means it’s roomy enough for a number of groups to taste the nectar of the grape gods we love so much at the same time. Plus of course it’s equipped with spittoons and water which is always a good idea, especially if you’re touring around a number of wineries in one day.

On our recent visit the staff in both the cellar door and out on the terrace were super friendly and helpful – they were willing to answer any questions we had and up for a general old chit chat. It’s always nice to get that vibe that staff enjoy their jobs!

Now stop blabbing Casey, let’s get to the wine! As mentioned a wine tasting is free at Jane Brook – they do have quite a selection to try as well such as; bubbles (on our visit they had a NV white, rose and a vintage bubbles), Classic White, Sauvignon Blanc, SBS, Chardonnay, Rose, Classic Red, Shiraz, Malbec, Cab Sauv and a number of fortified wines including a white port which I know a few of you guys would love!

Also you must check out their sparkling wines with gold flakes in – they’re as tasty as they look. Unfortunately they’re not open for tasting at the cellar door but you can purchase a bottle or two to take home with you.

On our visit we opted for a bottle of the 2010 Elizabeth Jane Blanc de Blancs to go with our lunch. The Chardonnay grapes for this bubbles are grown in Margaret River and it went down simply beautifully during our visit and it matched particularly well with the Garden Basket…

The Jane Brook Pantry – Lunch on the Patio

My first tip is to try and make a reservation and ask for a table overlooking the vineyard – you’ll thank me! If you love your picnics and platters then this experience is kicking it up a notch. It’s like the glamping version of a picnic – you rock up, choose between two picnic baskets full of local produce and homemade goodness, it’s packed for you to take to your table which is already equipped with a chopping board, cutlery, serviettes and olive oil. Then you enjoy!

The baskets for 2 are $45 which sounds a little on the pricey side however when you see the deliciousness that’s packed inside – it’s well worth the dosh. Mr. Spittoon and I opted for the Garden Basket as neither of us are big on pate (shock horror, I know!), it included:

• Seasonal Frittata (ours was totally drool-worthy)
• Selection of JB Pantry bites (we had some pickled vege & hummus)
• Vintage Cheddar & Creamy Brie Cheeses
• Two fresh Salads (we had a pearl couscous salad and coleslaw)
• Local Olives, Hummus, Chutneys
• Seasonal Fruit
• House Baked Sourdough

There was plenty for the two of us and it all washed down so lovely with our bottle of bubbles – it made for a very pleasant afternoon indeed! The total for our bubbles and basket was about $80 which isn’t too bad for a luxurious lunch for two.

Jane Brook also serve beer and Bolt coffee for those not into their wine.

More About Jane Brook

Jane Brook are a family run affair and have been doing their wine-y thing for over 40 years now in the Swan Valley. They are passionate about food, wine, people and what Mr. Spittoon really loved was their emphasis on sustainable practices – which you see part of upon driving up the driveway (the big solar panels).

If you’re in Perth, then I’d highly suggest stopping by Jane Brook, not just for a tasting but a spot of lunch on the terrace with some food too for the ultimate afternoon of relaxation.

While you’re in the area why not check out their neighbours Garbin Estate and The Tap at Chapel Farm!