Margaret River lamb ewe will love
Roaming in broad acres in what could be described as farming paradise is the "Arkady" flock of ewes. With British breed Poll Dorset and White Suffolk sires these ewes produce lambs specifically for meat - and the quality is exceptional, which might explain why Rockpool's head chef Dan Masters has supported the product from day one, as has Must Winebar's founder, Russell Blaikie.
"We are perhaps the only branded lamb product available in WA from a single flock, from a single farm and with British breed genetics which ensures extraordinary meat consistency and quality," proprietor of Margaret River's The Farm House David Hohnen says.
Mr Hohnen, also a vigneron under the McHenry Hohnen label, has teamed up with Colin Houghton, a third-generation farmer from Williams, who produces the lambs under the Arkady name.
"Around 15,000 ewes graze on 9000ha at Lynford Farm on Wild Horse Creek in the headwaters of the Blackwood River, just near Williams," Mr Hohnen says.
"The lambs feed on grass, which in the dry months of summer is found in the green creek flats and lucerne pastures. It's a very traditional and sustainable way of farming.
"Because the animals are grass fed, the meat is darker in colour, beautifully flavoured and higher in nutrition." The Farm House also sells Mr Hohnen's "Big Red" pastured pigs - a composite breed that is principally Tamworth, raised on the family farm south of Witchcliffe. According to Mr Hohnen, they live "the life of Riley" foraging for grasses, roots and grubs, and enjoy a diet supplemented by legumes and grains.
"The lamb is a unique South West product and if you like it, it's a repeatable experience," Mr Hohnen says.
The Farm House Arkady lamb is well supported by chefs in the Cape to Cape region or find it at the Margaret River Farmers' Market every Saturday morning. Alternatively, contact Perth distributor, Peter Stocker and his team at Classic Meats on 9242 2623. If dining out find Arkady lamb at Restaurant Amuse, The Greenhouse, The Trustee or on the rotisserie at the Cottesloe Beach Hotel. Visit thefarmhousemr.com.au.
