Crown Perth starts construction on Gladstones wine bar, in honour of industry pioneer John Gladstones

The man considered the father of Margaret River’s world-renowned wine industry will be honoured by a new high-end bar at Crown Perth.

Gladstones pays homage to John Gladstones, whose pioneering research into Margaret River’s topography, soils and climate deemed it suitable for vineyards. The celebrated agronomist died in May, aged 92.

Construction has begun on the wine bar, which is between Crown Towers and Crown Metropol.

Crown Perth chief executive Brian Pereira said the venue would showcase “the best wines Western Australia and the world have to offer, while still being accessible to anyone celebrating a night out or a special occasion at Crown”.

Dr Gladstones’ daughter, Helen Gladstones, said the family was proud to see their father’s legacy recognised.

“We’re really pleased that Crown Perth has decided to recognise dad’s legacy through their new WA-focused wine bar,” she said.

“Above all, dad was passionate about wines that express their regional and varietal origins. This is still reflected in the JS Gladstones trophy, awarded at the annual WA Wine Show to the wine judged to display the best and most distinctive regional characters.

“He would have been delighted to see WA wines being showcased for locals and visitors to enjoy in this way.”

Set to seat around 50 guests, the intimate venue will offer a luxurious and sophisticated setting, ideal for a pre-show drink, a relaxed nightcap or sharing a special bottle with friends.

Gladstones will feature a curated selection of award-winning Western Australian wines alongside acclaimed international drops.

A highlight will be its extensive by-the-glass list, giving visitors a chance to taste famous vintages without breaking the bank by buying a bottle.

In 1986 Dr Gladstones was made a member of the Order of Australia. His research in lupins transformed pasture farming in WA but he is best known for his work in the 1960s, when he studied the Busselton-Margaret River area and successfully argued it was similar to the famous French wine region of Bordeaux.

He worked closely with Vasse Felix founder Tom Cullity, who planted Margaret River’s first commercial vines.

Ms Gladstone said the family is proud to see their father’s influence recognised.

“It’s lovely to see Crown recognising what he did,” she said.

“Not loudly and not with fanfare — but with quiet conviction,

“That seed he planted changed the future of wine growing in our state, laying the groundwork for something much bigger than himself.”

Gladstones is the latest addition to Crown’s revamped hospitality offering, which will include the new Urban Food District precinct — part of the company’s biggest investment in almost a decade.