About
Founded by Erl Happ in 1978 and based at 575 Commonage Road, Dunsborough, Happs is one of Margaret River's most unconventional producers — a pioneer of preservative-free wine in the region since 1987. The estate spans two vineyards: the original Dunsborough home block and a larger Karridale property 60 km south, together growing over 30 varietals including rare Iberian and Italian varieties such as Touriga Nacional, Tinta Cao, Graciano, and Tannat. All fruit is hand-picked and grown without irrigation, using organic soil management and minimal inputs. The cellar door is the first in the region to offer outdoor self-serve wine tasting, set among native forest with gourmet picnic hampers available — and Commonage Pottery next door showcases ceramic artists working in raku, stoneware, and crystalline glazes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Happs wines organic or preservative-free?
Happs has been producing preservative-free wines since 1987 — one of Margaret River's earliest adopters. The vineyards use organic soil management, no herbicides, and minimal mineral fertiliser, with all grapes hand-picked and unirrigated. They do not hold a formal certified-organic label but their practices align closely with organic principles.
What grape varieties does Happs grow?
Over 30 varieties across two vineyards, including rare Iberian and Italian grapes such as Touriga Nacional, Tinta Cao, Graciano, Tannat, Tempranillo, Nebbiolo, Sangiovese, Pinot Noir, and Gamay — making it home to the widest varietal range in Western Australia.
What is the Happs cellar door experience like?
The cellar door is elevated on native forest grounds at 575 Commonage Road, Dunsborough, and is the first in Margaret River to offer outdoor self-serve wine tasting. Visitors can assemble gourmet picnic hampers and enjoy wines on the lawn. It is open daily 10am–5pm, except Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and Good Friday.
What is Commonage Pottery?
Commonage Pottery, on site alongside the winery, is an active working studio showcasing ceramic artists producing world-class pottery in styles including raku, stoneware, crystalline glazes, woodfired, and high-fired reduction glazes. Handcrafts and jewellery by regional artisans are also available.