New $2m Margaret River bottling plant

Howard Park Wines plans to spend $2 million on a new Margaret River-based bottling facility, which will be up and ready for the winery's 2010 vintage.

The announcement is below:

Howard Park Wines today announced a two million dollar investment in their business to be spread over two years with a new Margaret River-based bottling facility being commissioned in October 2009 in time for the 2010 vintage. This facility and the new department associated with its launch will significantly boost local employment in the region.

A further significant investment announced is the production of method traditionale sparkling wine, commissioned in 2010 from the Margaret River winery. Howard Park Wines have produced sparkling wine in small quantities for several years, but owner/CEO Jeff Burch says, "The time is right to make a major investment utilising the Government investment allowance. Western Australians should be proud of the reputation our wine has earned overseas. Now we see the opportunity for Western Australians to celebrate further success with a quality method traditionale sparkling wine."

"While the industry is going through tough times there is always a place for quality brands," says Burch. "As a family wine business, we have always taken the long-term view of the industry and we think now is a good time to invest in it. We are very excited about the future."