Your Hunter Valley Magazine | Sep - Oct 23

Acknowledging the Past, Embracing the Future

With September comes Spring in the Hunter Valley and a time when the vines come to life with an explosion of green known as ''budburst.'' It's a beautiful time of the year to be in wine country with a plethora of activities on the go as the weather starts to warm up. It's also the perfect time to get adventurous with a wine-tasting tour, a balloon flight or a horse ride.

Alternatively, shake off the winter cobwebs and pamper yourself at the day spa, stroll through Hunter Valley Gardens (which is stunning in Spring) or visit the local markets. Spring signals that it's time to venture outside and get out and about in Wine Country.

With a long weekend coming up at the beginning of October, there's never been a better time to check out some of the fabulous restaurants and cellar doors in this month's issue. Remember to book. Oh - and tell them we sent you!

With a recent refurbishment, The Still House at the historic Ben Ean has become the most sought-after destination for VIPs and those ‘in the know’ to enjoy private dining and tasting

experiences whilst soaking up the extraordinary heritage of this once humble building. This unique venue is set to become iconic, with nothing else like it in the Valley - check it out on page 12.

There is no denying it… Rosé is all the rage. Over the past twenty years, interest in Rosé has burgeoned from a limited niche wine to one of the world's most exciting and fastest-growing wine markets. We tasted some of our favourite Hunter Valley Rosé this month – read more on page 28.

Towards the end of this month, we 'welcome' the Spring School Holidays and, with them, Amaze & Play in the Garden. Adventure will be dialled up to high as the Gardens are transformed into an adventure playground complete with a giant jungle maze that will fascinate and delight kids big and small! Read more on page 16.

Whatever you do – get out and about in the Hunter this Spring and enjoy everything our beautiful region has to offer.

On? WHAT'S

Events not to miss in the Hunter Valley Region

Sept + Oct

BOOK ONLINE

Distiller's Flight Spirit & Cocktail Experience

At McGuigan Wines

Immerse yourself in the flavours of the Hunter in this exquisite Wine, Cheese & Chocolate tasting.

For the spirit and cocktail enthusiasts who are looking to try something new! Sample the best of our new spirit selection and find your favourite flavour. This guided tasting includes pours of gin, vodka, liquor creams, espresso, cosmo's and more, this is a not to be missed flavour experience! Cost: $15 pre-paid reservations for parties of 1 – 20 people. Visit www.mcguiganwines.com.au and click on Visit Us to book.

Crimes of Passion Guided Night Tour

at Maitland Gaol

SATURDAY 16 SEPTEMBER

Listen to Maitland Gaol come to life with stories focused on Crimes of Passion that lead to incarceration or worse. Combining impulsive and calculated stories, the tour will both shock and intrigue you. The local stories are sure to leave you checking your doors are locked. There is also another tour on Saturday 21 October. For more information, visit www.mymaitland. com.au

SEPT & OCT

Markets

Handmade in the Hunter Markets

Kevin Sobels Wines

SATURDAY 16, 23 & 30 SEPTEMBER,

SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER

SAT 7 & 14 OCTOBER (EVERY SATURDAY) 9am – 2pm

Slow Food Earth Market

The Levee, Central Maitland

THURS 21 SEPTEMBER

THURS 5 OCTOBER

8:30am – 1:30pm

Maitland Community Markets

Maitland Showground

SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER 9am – 1pm

(PLEASE CHECK SOCIALS FOR ANY CANCELLATIONS)

End 2 End Festival at Pokolbin

SATURDAY 16 SEPTEMBER

Featuring 3 venues, 15 wineries, gourmet food, live music, celebrity chefs, boutique beer and more, the End2End Festival is an event not to miss! Hop on and off the shuttle bus at either Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort, Ben Ean and Drayton’s Family Wines to relax with a glass (or bottle) of wine while listening to the live music and enjoying fantastic food. Live entertainment includes Simply Divinyls, Damnation, Rock Rhapsody, Komiti Levai Band, Edge of Seventeen tribute to Fleetwood Mac, and GENR8, so there is something for everyone to enjoy. Enjoy the sensory journey through the stunning locations while indulging your senses and tickling your tastebuds! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.end2endfestival.com.au

Singleton Show at Singleton Showground

FRI 22 – SUN 24 SEPTEMBER

The annual Singleton Show is returning this year for its 149th edition! The fun begins on Friday with the dairy cattle competition, local equestrian, my pet dinosaur, and much more. Saturday will be jam-packed with the Australian wife carrying competition, post-splitting, and fashions on the field. Throughout the first two days, a range of pavilions and stalls will be open. The massive event will conclude

on Sunday with the horse show. With so many activities on offer, there is something to excite everyone! For more information, visit www.singletonshow.com

Picnic in the Vines at Saddler’s Creek Wines

SATURDAY 23 SEPTEMBER

Saddler’s Creek is hosting their annual Picnic in the Vines event to welcome the beginning of bud burst in the beautiful spring weather. The family-friendly event is set among the shady trees in the Picnic Garden overlooking the vineyard and Brokenback ranges. Enjoy a day full of life’s simple pleasures – good food and great wine! Gather your friends and family

Junior Sleuth: Fingerprinting

at Maitland Gaol

28 SEPTEMBER & 5 OCTOBER

Get your kids to unlock the fun these school holidays at Maitland Gaol! Children will have the opportunity to learn about the processing of prisoners before they end up behind bars. While learning about how to dust for fingerprints, participants will process their own fingers to take home as a souvenir.

to celebrate the start of the growing season in Wine Country. For more info or to book tickets, visit www.saddlerscreek.com

Amaze & Play in the Garden at Hunter

Valley Gardens

SAT 23 SEP – SUN 8 OCT

Recommended for children aged 5-15 years. For more information or to book tickets, visit www. maitlandgaol.com.au

Enjoy a fun day out and celebrate the warmer weather during the upcoming holidays! It’s an event for kids of all ages as they search for hidden creatures in the giant Spring Adventure Maze or discover the magical fairies and gnomes throughout the Storybook Garden. There will also be a jumping castle and bubble zone for entertainment, alongside their usual rides. Wander around the gardens and be amazed at the beautiful blossoms. Be sure to book your tickets! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.huntervalleygardens.com.au

Dashville Skyline

at Lower Belford

THURS 28 SEP – SUN 1 OCT

Brewing in the depths of the Hunter Valley country is the 9th chapter of Dashville Skyline, an amazing long weekend experience for laid-back music lovers and families looking for great music and a cultural camping experience. With over 40 live performances, food options, market stalls, history exhibits, petting zoo, show and shine, and more on offer, there

Oktoberfest

at Harrigan’s Hunter Valley

SATURDAY 30 SEPTEMBER

Get ready for a day full of entertainment and competitions of German culture. With a pretzel-eating contest and beer-stein-holding contest, there is something for everyone to participate in or enjoy the action from the sidelines! Live entertainment includes the Oophaolics, an 8-piece band sure to excite. But that’s not all – food and drink specials will

is something for everyone. For more info or to book tickets, visit www.dashville.com.au

Paws for Wine

at Misty Glen Wines

SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER

Enjoy the Sunday afternoon of the long weekend with your fur baby, soaking up the ambience while enjoying a glass (or two!) of Misty Glen Wines and a picnic. With competitions throughout the day and market stalls for both you and your furry friends, it’s sure to be a fun day!

Riverlights

Multicultural Festival

at The Levee

TUESDAY 3 - SATURDAY 7

OCTOBER

be on offer from 25 September to 2 October, all inspired by the traditional German celebration. Be sure to secure your table! For more info or to book, visit www. harriganshuntervalley.com.au

Riverlights Multicultural Festival celebrates diversity through food, dance, music, and experiences! Journey through The Levee’s global village, where you’ll be able to feel, taste, and see the many cultures from around the world in one place. Enjoy many activities, including dance classes, learning skills in another language, cooking

For more info or to book tickets, visit www.mistyglen.com.au

demonstrations, lantern-making classes, and so much more. You definitely don’t want to miss this! For more info, visit www. maitlandriverlights.com.au

Source: Maitland River Lights Website

Finding Nemo Jr. at Performance Arts Culture

Cessnock

THURSDAY 5 OCTOBER

Hunter Drama is bringing Finding Nemo Jr. to PACC this month! The 60-minute musical is adapted from the beloved Pixar movie. Nemo goes on the adventure of a lifetime when he wants to explore the world away from his anemone home in the Great Barrier Reef. Watch as the talented cast brings the underwater world to life

Epic Food & Wine Battle

at Saddler’s Creek Wines

SATURDAY 7 OCTOBER

Enjoy an evening feast celebrating the best of the Hunter Valley’s food and wines. Matt from The Deck Café and Jonathan Heath from Well Seasoned Catering will showcase their skills in a 6-course degustation menu, with each course paired with a wine from each cellar door. You don’t want to miss this event;

Hunter

The Big 80s Party at Hope Estate

SATURDAY 7 OCTOBER

in a vibrant way, focusing on the importance of family and friendship. Finding Nemo Jr. promises to be a great show for guests of all ages to enjoy! For more info or to buy tickets, visit www.mypacc.com.au

40 years experience!

reserve your seat now and get ready to indulge in the best the Hunter Valley has to offer. To book tickets, visit www. saddlerscreek.com

Dachshtober Longdog Festival at Tocal Agriculture College

SUNDAY 15 OCTOBER

This fun, family-friendly event aims to bring sausage dogs and their owners from all over the country together to raise awareness and funds for the research of Intervertebral Disc Disease. Plenty of activities will be on offer, including The Longdog Dash Race, fancy dress competitions, loads of stalls,

friends and family and get ready to party! For more information or to book tickets, visit www. hopeestate.com.au

and so much more. Go along and help to break the world record for the largest number of sausage dogs at one event. For more info or to book tickets, visit www.mymaitland.com.au

The Hunter Valley Balloon Fiesta Returns!

Australia’s most experienced ballooning company, Balloon Aloft, will once again host a beautiful balloon fiesta over the Hunter Valley after a three-year hiatus for the popular event.

Around 25 hot air balloons will take to the skies in an incredible display of colour over the October Long Weekend from Friday, 29 September to Monday, 2 October, as part of the Hunter Valley Balloon Fiesta. Offering spectacular views over the vineyards, the event is a “must-do” activity for anyone visiting the Hunter Valley over the October long weekend.

Organiser Matthew Scaife of Balloon Aloft said the company was excited to be hosting the event once again after a three-year break following the COVID pandemic, with lucky passengers on board the balloons having the chance to experience the beauty of the Hunter Valley from a different perspective.

“There really is nothing like the feeling of being on board one of over twenty balloons as they float over the valley together at dawn,” he said.

“It’s a breathtaking experience, and there’s certainly no shortage of photographic opportunities.”

Following their flight, passengers will head back to Peterson House in Pokolbin for a delicious gourmet breakfast and Champagne celebration.

“It’s a great opportunity to celebrate the morning’s flight with fellow passengers and pilots,” said Matthew.

Fiesta flight tickets are selling fast, so if you’re interested in taking part, you are encouraged to book as soon as possible and avoid disappointment. Tickets in previous years’ fiestas sold out in the weeks prior to the event.

For more information on the Hunter Valley Balloon Fiesta, visit the event webpage www.bit.ly/BalloonAloftFiesta or to book your special price flight ticket, call 02 4990 9242.

Decadent Desserts at Sabor

Situated in the heart of Wine Country at Lambloch Estate, Sabor Dessert Bar serves as the Hunter’s Sweet Spot, pairing delicious desserts with local wines from across the region to create a fantastic experience in a relaxing atmosphere. With more than 50 complex and intricate desserts on offer, including their multi-award-winning Portuguese Chocolate Mousse, decadent cakes, and pastries (including gluten-free and vegan), hand-made chocolates and gourmet ice cream – your mouth will be watering as soon as you walk through the door and see their impressive display. The desserts are paired perfectly with locally sourced wines, providing you with the complete Hunter Valley experience. For more information, to view their menu, or to make a booking, visit www.sabordessertbar.com.au and start planning your trip now!

Shimmering Spirits

You'll discover local gem, Small Mouth Vodka, in the Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village. This small family-run distillery uses only premium and organic ingredients to create quality spirits that boast a full flavour with a long, smooth finish. With their range of gins, vodkas and liqueurs, there is something for every taste! Top sellers include the Shimmering Passionfruit Vodka, Shimmering Caramel Vodka, Shimmering Watermelon Liqueur, and Shimmering Espresso Liqueur. All products contain shimmering glitter that is food-grade safe so that when you add any mixer with bubbles, the glitter will continuously move in your drink. Plan a visit to their cellar door for a free tasting of the extensive range, and stock up on your favourites to wow at your next dinner party! For more information, to view the range, or to order online, visit www.smallmouthvodka.com

Perfection in Every Bite

Hunter Valley Chocolate Company is a premier attraction in Wine Country and a must-visit for locals and visitors alike! Creating the finest chocolate and fudge, this is the ideal destination for those looking to indulge in something special. Using only the finest Belgian couverture chocolate and Australian fruit and nuts, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company strives for perfection in every bite. Hunter Valley Chocolate Company has an extensive range of handmade chocolate and fudge available at Peterson House, as well as their café and factory at Twenty-3-Twenty. With so much on offer, there is something to everyone’s liking - from the rocky road and Belgian chocolate blocks to over 20 different flavours of quality fudge. At the factory, visitors can watch Peter (chief chocolatier and fudge maker) hard at work while he prepares a range of delicious treats. Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience and stock up on treats for your loved ones (and, of course, yourself)! For more information or to view the delicious range online, visit www.hvchocolate.com.au

Hunter Valley

Saddle Up with the Perfect SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITY!

If you’re after a unique experience in the Hunter Valley for yourself and the family these school holidays, Hunter Valley Horseriding is the perfect option! There are many riding choices on offer, so you’re sure to find something that will suit your ability.

You can ride and explore the beautiful Molly Morgan Range while experiencing the spectacular views of the countryside as far north as the Barrington Tops. Whether you’re an old hand on horseback or not, there’s a ride for every experience level, with the 1 and 1.5hour guided trail rides being the most popular for both beginners and experts alike. The pony rides are an excellent option for younger children, families, or beginners. Spending half an hour with an experienced guide, you will ride the same trails as the full trail rides. Hunter Valley Horseriding will be a magical experience for all – especially during this month’s school holidays. For more information, visit www.huntervalleyhorses.com or call Margaret on 02 4930 7111 to book.

Trail

Pony

Wine

The Still House

WORDS LIANE MORRIS | FEATURES WRITER IMAGES MJK CREATIVE

The history of Ben Ean goes back more than 140 years to when John McDonald gave the estate its Scottish name, meaning ‘mountain of pleasure’. When he built the tin shed that would house his distillery in 1907, little did he know that one day, in the far future, it would be home to one of the most distinguished private tasting rooms in the Hunter

Valley. With a recent refurbishment, The Still House has become the most sought-after destination for VIPs and those ‘in the know’ to enjoy private dining and tasting experiences whilst soaking up the extraordinary heritage of this once humble building.

John McDonald sold his estate in 1917 to the Lindeman Family, who renamed it Lindemans Ben Ean. The distillery produced brandy spirits used in the production of fortified wines, which were once the most popular alcoholic beverages in the Australian market after beer. In 1963,

the government put a hefty excise on the production of spirits that made it uneconomical to produce. By the 1980s, the old distillery was being used to house tastings, and the market had begun to focus on table wines over fortifieds.

Lindemans was caught up in the great merger of wine brands and was owned by Philip Morris in 1972, then by Penfolds in 1990. It became part of Southcorp, and by 2011, it was part of Treasury Wine Estates. Lindeman’s Ben Ean Moselle was Australia’s best-selling wine during the

1970s and was originally a blend of Hunter Semillon and Verdelho. It reached its peak in 1979 when it was estimated to hold more than 20 per cent of the Australian bottled wine market. It is widely recognised as one of the first successful Australian table wines.

During the Sydney 2000 Olympics, Lindemans was the official wine provider of the games. Southcorp invested $2 million into renovating the old tin shed, which was in disrepair, and it was officially reopened in September 1999, ready for visiting VIPs from the Olympics. It was after this that Treasury Wine Estate stopped producing wine in the Hunter, leaving Lindemans Ben Ean estate closed for some time. Until two wellknown wine families stepped in to save it, that is!

Colin Peterson is the patriarch of the family that owns Peterson Wines and Savannah Estate and several restaurants. The family are also behind the well-known Peterson House, a public company that they own majority shares in, and have business interests in other wineries, including Two Rivers. In 2017, Colin could no longer ignore the sad image of Lindemans Ben Ean estate lying empty.

“It’s right on McDonald’s Road, in a prime location,” said Colin.

“I would drive past it daily, and I just felt so sad about it. It holds significant historical importance to the growth of the Hunter Valley wine industry, and I became determined to do something about it.”

Colin approached his friend and local wine industry icon Brian McGuigan with the idea to purchase the Estate together, with the intention to preserve its heritage.

Another wine family patriarch, Brian McGuigan, who holds Hunter Valley Legend status and is one of Australia’s most successful winemakers and marketers, formerly Managing Director and founder of Wyndham Estate Wine Company and McGuigan Wines, could see the potential. Together, the two negotiated a deal with Treasury Wine Estate that would not only sell them the estate but also enable them to secure the rights to sell Penfolds wines, including Grange.

“Colin and I are dedicated to maintaining and developing the Estate as a salute to some of the best-known wine producers of the last 170 years of viticulture and winemaking in the district,” said Brian.

“The property has produced extraordinary wines that have assisted in building the reputation of the Hunter Valley as one of the world’s highest-quality wine regions. The site's heritage will be protected at all costs in recognition of the great history we possess in our region.”

Central to the plans to develop the Estate, the new management team reverted back to the original name of Ben Ean in a nod to its past and stocked the cellar door with iconic wine brands including its famous families’ wines such as Petersons Wines, Savannah Estate, Lisa McGuigan Wines, Neil McGuigan Wines, Penfolds, Gunpowder Wines and Weerona Wines, with the tag – ‘from our wine families to yours’.

Returning Ben Ean to its historical past also meant revamping the previous refurbishment of the old distillery. Kevin Royan, ironically a Scotsman, was employed to renovate the old tin shed, which had lost its rustic charm to chipboard and aluminium. Along with Michael Partridge, the Ben Ean Cellar Door Manager, the two took on the fiveyear passion project and now want everyone to know about The Still House at Ben Ean. F

Kevin Royan stocking up the Penfolds rack.

“We sunk our souls into the place,” said Michael.

“We are so proud of the result. Our main focus and passion have been to keep the history alive. We wanted to return it to its former rustic self.”

“It took three months just to gut the place,” said Kevin. “All the timber, the bar, the slabs, everything was recycled and reused. We pulled it apart internally and completely rebuilt it. Externally, it has stayed the same, and people get such a shock when they enter. They think they’re walking into a tin shed and have low expectations. I love seeing the shock and subsequent awe on their faces.”

The Still House is unique. There is nothing else like it in the Hunter Valley. The old original copper brandy still sits in the corner with an historical beauty all of its own. The shelves are stocked with old Lindemans and Penfolds wines, with some dating back to the 1930s. Visitors are encouraged to look up their birth date. The wine racks that dominate the space are illuminated, and the recycled blackbutt timber table took 16 men to carry and had to be constructed on-site. The table features original plaques that show the vineyards that processed through the winery, some of which still exist today.

“When we were renovating, we found original legal documents and title deeds for Lindemans properties,” said Michael.

“We’ve got them displayed on the walls; some date back to the 1850s. It’s amazing. When people walk into the space, we keep it dark, then switch on the lights, illuminating from the top down, giving a unique perspective of the scale and creating a wonderful ambience.”

With a commercial kitchen having been built behind the building, the space is now open for private tasting and dining events that are nothing short of bucket-list experiences. There are the Meet the Maker Sunday Lunches for up to 12 people at $190 per person, private dining options that pair with wine tastings, a Penfolds Degustation with a minimum $6000 spend, a private tasting session for $50 per person or a Penfolds tasting session that includes Grange for $100 per person.

“The Meet the Maker lunches offer canapes and three courses, and it’s just like having lunch with the winemaker at the kitchen table,” said Michael.

“The winemaker talks about the wines, tells stories, and shares their food and wine philosophy. It’s a great insight into the winemaker’s personality, and it’s bloody good fun! We always say, ‘what happens in the Still House stays in the Still House’.”

Savannah Peterson, Colin’s daughter, manages Ben Ean. The estate has eighty acres of vineyards and plans for a new label called Still House Wines.

“We hope to have the wines released late this year,” said Savannah.

“We’re looking at Shiraz, Tempranillo and Semillon all from the

Stocked shelves of the Lindemans and Penfolds bottles dating back to 1930.

property, as well as an Arneis, Chardonnay and Aged Semillon from the Hunter. In addition, we’ve got the Still House Wines 40-Year-Old Tawny being released.”

The fact that Ben Ean can offer tastings of Penfolds is a stroke of

With one of the largest original cellar doors in the Hunter Valley and access to Penfolds Grange for tastings, the estate has been popular with corporate groups. If the group is larger than 12, the tastings can take place in the original winery rather than The Still House. Recently, a women’s World Cup team delegation visited for a Penfolds Grange tasting.

Ben Ean is a popular wedding venue and onsite restaurant Baumé

experience, you can’t miss The Still House and the opportunity to soak up

Acknowledging the Past, Embracing the Future

The distillery, a ectionately known as “The Still House” has undergone extensive refurbishment and is open to VIPs and their guests. There are multiple tasting options available, including the Penfolds Experience, the Still House Tasting and the Grange Tasting.

OPENING HOURS Monday to Saturday 9am–5pm | Sunday 10am–5pm PH 02 4993 3701 | E stillhouse@benean.com.au

Michael Partridge using his winemaking knowledge to check the wine.

Add to Your Collection at Morpeth Antique Centre

Discover 21 dealers and The Servant’s Quarters Tearoom, all under one roof. All things Ancient, Antique, Vintage, Retro, Heirloom, Collectable.

AUSTRALIAN ALPACA BARN

Amaze & Play In The Garden

Hunter Valley Gardens will transform into an adventurous playground as Amaze & Play kicks off these school holidays! Open from Saturday, 23 September, until Sunday, 8 October, families can enjoy a super-fun Spring day out!

Search for the lost creatures hidden within the giant Spring Adventure Maze and discover the magical fairies and gnomes of the Storybook Garden. The kids will love bouncing around on the inflatable jumping castle and obstacle course, blowing up a storm in the bubble zone and seeing all the fresh Spring colours of the gardens in full bloom. There are also junior jumping castles for the smaller family members to enjoy (height restrictions apply).

The Storybook Garden will be transformed into a fairy and gnome wonderland with beautiful installations along the way, including bright birdhouses, potted colour displays and hanging baskets. There will also be roving entertainers on hand to keep the kids entertained.

The giant Spring Adventure Maze is a fun challenge for the whole family, offering an exciting quest to find the lost creatures within. Spanning over 400 metres, the maze features intricate pathways, including tricky dead ends that will put your sense of direction to the ultimate test.

Once you’ve finished exploring, grab a ride token and head over to The Swing Chair, Ferris Wheel and Superslide for the more adventurous or choose to take it easy on The Carousel or Tea Cup Ride. The 25-metretall Ferris Wheel will offer you incredible, panoramic views of the Gardens and will be your chance to see the Gardens from above.

Amaze & Play in the Garden activities will be open every day from 10am until 3pm. The Gardens will be open daily from 9 am until 5pm, with the last entry at 3pm. Rides are open between 10am and 4:30pm. To book, visit www.hvg.com.au

CIDER

� 8 Di�erent Cider Styles and Flavours

� Enjoy Cider & Wine Paddles or by the Glass

� Cheese Boards & Cocktails

Knotted and Knitted

ANNA MIKULA | HANDMADE IN THE HUNTER MARKETS

This month, we sat down and had a chat with Helen Cameron, who admits her handmade business, Knotted and Knitted, is a culmination of “my hobbies gone mad!”

Helen’s passion for her own business also translates into a love of all things handmade. You can meet Helen and all the other fabulous makers at the markets this month each and every Saturday (weather permitting – see times on page 5.)

Can you please tell us about your business?

My business is about creating unique macrame pieces, including pot plant hangers, decorative pieces and wall hangings, with an emphasis on using Australian-manufactured cord. I also design and knit tea and egg cosies.

How long have you been running Knotted and Knitted, and how did you start off?

FORGED WROUGHT IRON EXCLUSIVE DESIGNS UNCOMPROMISING QUALITY

When you walk in Rene’s blacksmith shop, you will get the feeling you walk 100 years back in history. Fire in the coal forge, and tools that are 100, even 150 years old. If the tools could talk, you'd have part of the history here.

15 years ago, I started knitting 50-60’s style tea cosies, which I sold at markets in Brisbane. It was around the same time that my passion for macrame came into being. Whilst creating some bespoke macrame lighting pieces, I came into contact with Australian cord manufacturers and have been proudly using these in my work ever since.

What types of materials do you use?

I use natural and poly Australian manufactured cords for my macrame pieces, and my knitted creations can incorporate single to multiple yarns in natural and synthetic fibres.

What is your most popular creation?

The macrame pot hangers are very popular as they can tolerate most weather conditions, including the sun and rain, and can hold up to 20 kg in weight. The chicken tea cosies tend to evoke smiles, laughter and fond memories, and I have sold them to people from around the world.

What do you like most about Handmade in the Hunter Markets?

I joined the markets around 8 years ago and love the setting and being able to connect with other creative souls. I also find it is my go-to place for gift shopping.

Specialising in artistic restoration and new works, Danish born René Rasmussen has the blacksmith’s skill to restore and recreate the style of yesteryear in many creative and varied forms.

Former blacksmith and farrier for the Queen of Denmark

Former blacksmith and farrier for Carlsberg breweries

Traditional Danish Family Blacksmiths since 1784

WITH A WINEMAKING TWIST

Pokolbin’s

There is nothing quite like a fes�ve sushi pla�er to impress your guests. It tastes healthy, light and delicious. A favourite dining experience for locals and visitors alike.

Striving to Stand Out GARTELMANN WINES

WORDS LIANE MORRIS

Gartelmann Wines has recently taken out the James Busby Perpetual Trophy for Best NSW Wine for their Diedrich Reserve Shiraz 2018. Awarded to the wine achieving the highest total medal score over the previous 12 months on the NSW Wine Show circuit, the wine is a beautiful balancing act of dark berry fruit and subtle spice with supple tannins and lasting acidity. Named after Jorg Gartelmann’s grandfather Diedrich, it is the winery’s icon Shiraz, sourced from a single cool climate vineyard in Orange and matured for 16 months in a mix of American and French oak barrels.

Matt Dillow, renowned chef and restauranteur who purchased Gartelmann in 2020, could not be more proud of the recognition that the wine has so deservedly won.

“We were on cloud nine when we won the award,” said Matt.

“It’s great for the brand and is a wonderful acknowledgment of everyone’s hard work. We inherited this wine, but we’ve also been winning awards for wines we’ve created since taking over the winery, including last year’s Best Rosé trophy at the Hunter Valley Wine Show for our Veronica Rosé Shiraz. We’ve been careful to continue with the Gartelmann traditions, to strive for stand-out wines across the range, and to offer exceptional quality at respectable prices. It’s what drew me to Gartelmann in the first place.”

Matt has run the popular on-site restaurant, The Deck Café, since 2013, but since purchasing the winery, he has been able to make changes, including the extension of the café, landscaping improvements, and minor renovations to the cellar door, including artworks from artist Tanya Loviz to make the space more welcoming. They have also revitalised the brand, taking inspiration from the original 1996 drawings of the famous magpie from the artist Chris Fussell and adding a different magpie to each label.

BELIEVE IN THE SIMPLE THINGS IN

THEY JUST NEED TO BE AMAZING.

Operations Manager Jimmy Smith works closely with Matt on developing the wines, along with Liz Silkman and Annabel Holland at First Creek Winemaking Services.

Credit: Elfes Images

Tammy’s Riesling was the first in a range of new varietals from different regions, and Gartelmann’s first Tawny was produced and released this year. We have a Barbera wine from the Orange region, which will be released next year. We are also looking at Montepulciano, hopefully from the 2024 vintage and a new vintage of the infamous Diedrich Shiraz.”

Matt has a Maltese background and is very interested in Italian varieties. He visits Italy regularly on his Food and Wine Tours, taking intimate groups of 20 people on one-week wine and cooking tours of food and wine regions. He also hosts tours to Tasmania and the Margaret River.

“I like the Italian varieties because they are light with big fruit,” said Matt.

“We created the Riesling because it’s a great food pairing wine. Our last vintage was 2021, and we sold out very quickly. We have a new vintage 2023 coming this year. We try to do a limited release every year.”

Gartelmann sources 70% of fruit from the Hunter Valley, with the remainder coming from Rylstone, Orange, the Clare Valley, and Renmark.

The most popular white wine at Gartelmann is the Jessica Verdelho, with its refreshingly assertive and glorious strength, ideal for pairing with any fiery food, while the best-selling red is the Phillip Alexander Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot, with flavours of aniseed swirled with dark berries and fabulous cellaring potential.

Gartelmann Wines, along with The Deck Café, is a Hunter Valley landmark winery offering tastings of award-winning wines and fabulous food. Beautiful gardens and grounds complete the package, with an animal farm to keep the kids amused. Located at Lovedale, you can’t, and shouldn’t, miss the magpie!

One of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious wine shows, the Sydney Royal Wine Show, announced its 2023 champion trophy recipients last month, and according to the results, it’s Australians who are the real winners. Not only are Australians getting access to some of the best quality wine in the world, but they are also getting it at reasonable price points. Out of the thirty trophies awarded, around 50 per cent are available to Australians at under $40, and a large portion are priced at $30 or less.

WORDS DI VON ESSEN

“Australian wine connoisseurs are winners here. The 2023 Sydney Royal Wine Show has demonstrated that not only are Australian producers delivering incredible wines, but they are doing so at reasonable price points for consumers,” said Sarah Crowe, chair of judges.

Once again, the Hunter Valley performed well, with Hunter Valley wineries receiving 4 of the 30 trophies awarded and sixteen wines across nine wineries from the Hunter region awarded a gold medal.

The James Busby Perpetual Trophy for Best NSW Wine is awarded to the wine achieving the highest total medal score over the previous 12 months on the NSW Wine Show circuit, and this year, the Trophy for

Best NSW Wine went to Gartelmann Wines for their 2018 Gartelmann Diedrich Reserve Shiraz.

Matt Dillow, owner of Gartelmann Wines, was thrilled with the win, describing the wine as their iconic single vineyard Shiraz and “a beautiful balancing act of dark berry fruit and subtle spice with supple tannins and lasting acidity. It is a sleek, elegant wine with the perfect balance of power and finesse.”

Other worthy trophy winners include McGuigan Wines, who took home the Trophy for Best Semillon and Trophy for Best Mature White for their 2014 McGuigan Bin 9000 Semillon.

De Iuliis Wines took home the Trophy for Best Current Vintage White for their 2023 De luliis Semillon Single Vineyard, and Silkman Wines was awarded the Trophy for Best Small Producer for the 2022 Silkman Wines Reserve Chardonnay.

The 51st Annual PKF Hunter Valley Wine Show also took place in August, with a panel of judges meticulously evaluating an array of 541 submissions from 66 different exhibitors. As expected, the competition was exceptionally fierce, underscoring the region's remarkable vinicultural prowess.

This year saw 12 exhibitors awarded trophies, reflecting the breadth of quality wines on show. Bimbadgen, Charteris Wines, De Iuliis Wines, First Creek Wines, Margan Wines, Mercer Wines, Scarborough Wine Co, Silkman Wines, Sweetwater Estate, Thomas Wines, Tinklers Wines and Tyrrell’s all took out Trophy’s, with First Creek Wines winning the prestigious Iain Riggs Wine of Provenance Trophy.

The 2023 judging panel included international judge Jane Skilton from New Zealand, who admitted she loved judging regional shows as they provided her with a good overview of what is happening in that region.

“I feel honoured to be in the Hunter Valley, and I’ve been amazed by the uniform high quality of wines. The quality of the Chardonnay was great, and the alternative varieties showed great possibilities as emerging winemakers are trying something new,” said Jane.

Spring

Dining Guide

Hunters Quarter (HQ), MAP REF M9

Located in Pooles Rock Vineyard of Pokolbin, Hunters Quarter (HQ) is a relaxed and elegant destination. The restaurant is a dining space with something for everyone – whatever the occasion, come and discover a contemporary dining experience with a private terrace in the vineyards. Perfect for family, friends and fantastic food.

Pooles Rock/Cockfighters Ghost Vineyard, 576 De Beyers Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998 7776 OPEN Lunch Fri, Sat & Sun, Dinner Fri & Sat

E info@huntersquarter.com.au W www.huntersquarter.com.au

Myrtle

Myrtle & Stone is a breakfast and lunch cafe set in the gorgeous village of Wollombi. They’re all about great food, local produce and sharing the relaxed feeling you get when passing through this beautiful and historic part of the world. If you love good music and service with a smile, drop into Myrtle & Stone for breakfast, lunch and enjoy a cocktail or a local drop of vino.

2877 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi PH 4998 3220

OPEN Breakfast & Lunch 7 days

E hello@myrtleandstone.com W www.myrtleandstone.com

The name says it all... Delicious. Open daily, Oishii has become one of the most popular eateries in the epicentre of Hunter Valley wineries and concerts. The market fresh seafood Sushi and Sashimi followed by a heartwarming, rich Massaman Beef Curry and finished with fried ice cream – a house speciality, begs a return visit to taste their unique Prawn Tempura, Panang Duck Curry and Green Curry Chicken. Roche Estate, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rds Pokolbin

PH 4998 7051 OPEN 7 Days Lunch, Dinner + T/A W www.oishii.com.au

éléments bar & dining, MAP REF K10

Located onsite at Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens, éléments bar & dining is the perfect Wine Country dining experience. The title éléments is derived from the natural elements of fire, water and soil. These elements and quality produce are transformed by Executive Chef Michael Watson who has created a menu influenced by the flavours of France and Italy. Be among the first to taste our spectacular new menu.

Mercure Resort HVG, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

Ph 4998 2000 OPEN 7 nights from 5:30pm

Wandin Kitchen, MAP REF E18

A winter favourite, The Cellar Restaurant delivers modern contemporary Australian cuisine, utilising local and seasonal quality ingredients. Dine in the intimate indoor garden setting with its centrally located fireplace or outside in the courtyard during the day. Try the new a la carte and tasting menu! Bookings recommended.

HVG Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998 7584

OPEN Lunch + Dinner Mon–Sat E admin@the-cellar-restaurant.com.au

W www.the-cellar-restaurant.com.au

Head Chef Tim Richardson has launched some new dishes to welcome in the Spring sunshine. With exceptional views, friendly service and Wandin wines to match, Wandin Kitchen is the perfect place for a family lunch, romantic dinner or group catchup. Why not join us in the cellar door for a wine tasting before or after lunch or simply soak up the rays in our lovely outdoor garden area.

Bookings highly recommended to avoid disappointment.

12 Wilderness Road, Lovedale PH 4930 9888

OPEN Breakfast Fri-Sun, Lunch Thurs-Sun, Dinner Fri & Sat nights

W www.wandin.com.au/wandinkitchen

The Cellar Restaurant, MAP REF L10

Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant, MAP REF K11

& Stone, MAP REF X5

For an altogether sweet experience, a visit to Sabor Dessert Bar is a MUST! Indulge in our multi-award winning Portuguese chocolate mousse, decadent cakes, pastries, hand-made chocolates, Portuguese tarts and gourmet ice-cream.

Bookings are recommended –visit our website or call us for same day bookings.

Blending History and Taste at Tamburlaine

Whether you're a connoisseur seeking to expand your palate or a history enthusiast eager to taste the past, ‘museum wines’ beckon you to explore the art, culture, and craftsmanship behind each vintage.

Hunter Valley producer Tamburlaine Organic Wines' new Museum Release is a refined collection of wines that pay tribute to the tremendous effort of winemaking while holding the essence of its era. And they’re available to purchase now, either online or at the Cellar Door in Pokolbin.

Blending history and taste, the collection offers enthusiasts a rare opportunity to experience wines aged to perfection, with each bottle capturing the essence of the 2016 and 2017 vintages. Uncork one of these treasures, and you'll release the aroma of the past, an invitation to experience the moments and memories captured in each bottle.

Established in 1966, Tamburlaine Organic Wines was purchased by a small group of friends and relatives led by Managing Director and Head of Grape and Wine Production Mark Davidson in the 80s when the term ‘organic’ was unheard of.

Over the years, Mark has seen the Australian organic wine movement progress from relative obscurity to being talked about and recognised

worldwide. Fast forward almost 40 years, and today, Tamburlaine is one of Australia’s largest producers of organic wines, with organic-certified vineyards in the Hunter Valley and Orange wine regions.

Mark continues to be a trailblazer in the Hunter Valley. From growing vines sustainably to experimenting with grape varieties and wine styles, Mark has built his long-term wine-making philosophy around contemporary organic practices in both the vineyard and the winery.

Drink now or drink later - Tamburlaine’s Museum Release wines have had valuable time in the bottle and are aged and ready to enjoy. Sure... some would consider them only middle-aged - so there is no real hurry. Unless temptation gets the better of you, that is!

For more information or to view Tamburlaine’s range online, visit www.tamburlaine.com.au

Raving About Rosé

There is no denying it… Rosé is all the rage. Over the past twenty years, interest in Rosé has burgeoned from a limited niche wine to one of the world's most exciting and fastest-growing wine markets. If you are one of the many fans who love pink wine, don't blush, as wine professionals worldwide are also behind this growth, with many wonderful and age-worthy Rosés to get excited about.

However, Rosé is not just the trendy wine of the 21st century. Instead, it is one of the oldest yet most modern wines, with the origins of Rosé winemaking traced back to ancient Greece when much of the red wine produced was pale red.

Nowadays, almost all the world’s wine-producing regions make Rosé wine. The first and arguably most important Rosé producer is France, where it is predominantly found in the southern region of Tavel, Provence and the Loire Valley in Anjou. Other important regions are Piedmont in Italy, Rioja in Spain and Styria in Austria.

For this wine, colour is essential and is a significant aspect of its appeal. It is impossible to define the “correct” colour of Rosé wine, which can be a veritable rainbow of different shades of pink – from pale copper, pastel pink, mauve blushes and magenta, through to apricot and even orange. And when it comes to the taste, you can expect sweet, savoury, dry, textural, smooth, light, creamy, heavy –you name it!

Australia’s fresh and vibrant Rosés are produced from red grape varieties such as Shiraz and Grenache, with minimal contact on skins to give the wines their signature ‘blush.’ However, other varieties like Tempranillo, Nebbiolo, Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir also make delicious versions of this wine.

The wonderful thing about Rosé is that it can be enjoyed all year round. But it is really in its prime in the warmer months. After all, is there anything more magical than a summer picnic or BBQ with friends, delicious food and a glass of gorgeous pink in your hand?

When it comes to food, it is the most versatile wine for food pairing, displaying the freshness of white wine combined with the structure and heft of a red. As a fantastic food wine, it can be paired with various foods and flavours and manages spices and heat well. Rosé is excellent alongside salads, antipasto platters, fish dishes or even your favourite curry and is the perfect accompaniment to soft goat cheese.

Rosé usually has a delicate flavour and a balance of sweetness and acidity that make it a refreshing palate-cleansing drink. It is best served young and at a chilled temperature.

TOP DROPS

PARCHED CROW WINES

2021 Rosé

Homegrown and handcrafted. Parched Crow Wines is family owned and locally run Cellar Door, with history in cattle farming and viticulture.

TASTING The Hunter’s take on a French-style Rosé. Ultra-light in both weight and colour, this (surprisingly) Shiraz based Rosé is savoury with a burst of strawberry, complimented by a refreshingly dry finish. An ideal Rosé for those with chic taste.

FOOD MATCH Perfect to pair with a French brie cheese such as Le Dauphin Double Crème and quince.

CELLARING Drink now. Get it ready for Spring and Summer! $25

TAMBURLAINE ORGANIC WINES

2022 Petite Fleur Rosé

This is a fun, fresh and fruity number ready to enjoy with friends.

TASTING A bouquet of rose petal and pink grapefruit, while boasting a juicy palate of red apple and refreshing citrus flavours.

FOOD MATCH A perfect choice with a grazing box of fresh fruit and cheese

CELLARING Keep cool and drink young.

HANGING TREE WINES

2021 Rosé

TASTING A vibrant, refreshing palate with intense passionfruit and tropical fruit flavours. The crunchy acidity and wellbalanced sweetness complement each other, resulting in fantastic weight and length.

FOOD MATCH Pair with light salads, light pasta and rice dishes, grilled white meats and seafood.

CELLARING Cellar for 5 years.

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$30 | Shop Now

DE IULIIS WINES

2023 Estate Rosé

This Rosé is a unique blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Shiraz grown on the family vineyard. A cool fermentation preserves the delicate aromatics. This fresh, vibrant and dry style of Rosé is the perfect crowd-pleaser.

TASTING The freshly pressed juices fermented on their skins for 2 hours, result in a light blush colour. With aromatics of strawberries and cream, and natural acidity gives the wine a lovely liveliness which is backed by lush strawberry and raspberry fruits.

FOOD MATCH Pair with sunshine and great friends, or make a meal of it with seared salmon with a parmesan crust. Either way this Rosé is the perfect addition for the kind of long lunch that seems to merge into dinner.

CELLARING Perfect for enjoying early. Always best served chilled with family and friends!

TRANQUIL VALE Luskintye Pink

This delicious Rosé is carefully crafted from estate grown, hand-picked fruit.

TASTING It’s light and bright – as a good Rosé should be! It shows zesty citrus notes balanced with subtle, yet frolicsome undertones of red berries and a refreshing minerality.

FOOD MATCH Grilled seafood, charcuterie or goats cheese.

CELLARING For drinking within the next 3 years.

IRON GATE ESTATE

2023 Rosé

Predominantly made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, this attractive pink/salmon wine has been produced from 100% Hunter Valley grapes.

TASTING The bouquet has scents of redcurrant, watermelon, and raspberry while the palate has flavours of cherry, apple, and raspberry musk stick with a crunchy and refreshingly dry finish.

FOOD MATCH This Rosé is a true all-rounder and will accompany most cuisines but terrific with shellfish, salmon, pasta, or pork dishes.

CELLARING Drink now or before 2025.

GARTELMANN WINES

2023 Veronica Rosé

An award winning dry Rosé made from 100% Hunter Valley Shiraz.

TASTING A medley of characters on the nose showing Turkish Delight, strawberries and Roséwater.

Abundant “strawberries and cream” characters dominate with subtle sweetness, offset by balanced acid so that the wine fills the mouth whilst remaining dry and lively.

FOOD MATCH Serve chilled with soy salmon, steamed duck, BBQ’d seafood, grilled haloumi and anything smoky or salty will work a treat!

CELLARING Drink now whilst young and fresh through to later in 2025.

DECAPEL WINES

2021 Jay Rose

A delightful French field blend of estate grown Shiraz along with Sangiovese from Broke plus Grenache and Mourvedre from the Hilltops region.

TASTING Hints of spice and red berry fruits with a crisp, dry, savoury finish.

FOOD MATCH Perfect alone as an aperitif or to be enjoyed with Asian, seafood and spicy dishes. CELLARING Best appreciated young and fresh.

THE GARDEN CELLARS

Shimmer Chill Moscato

The Garden Cellars most popular wine. Beautiful Pink Moscato that is a must have for any celebration! Perfect for parties and family get togethers, great conversation starter and extremely eye catching.

TASTING Refreshing Pink Moscato with notes of apple followed by a fizzy sherbet finish. FOOD MATCH Pairs well with desserts and pastries.

CELLARING Store in a cool dark place and perfect to drink now.

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