Hunter Valley Magazine Issue 9, 2017

MAGAZINE ISSUE

HUNTER VALLEY MAGAZINE ISSUE #09

Say hello...

to a nice refreshing Verdelho

SEP 2017 - FEB 2018

SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO • 2 CADILLAC CAR LOVERS WITH VA-VA-VROOM WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

• 3 LOCALS REVEAL THEIR PRIVATE PASSIONS • 5 TASTY FOOD AND WINE EXPERIENCES • 10 PLACES TO STAY WITH PICTURE-PERFECT POOLS

#09 REGIONAL GUIDE & MAP

First Creek chief winemaker Liz Silkman was crowned Hunter Valley Winemaker of the Year in 2011 and 2016.

First Creek Wines has collected an impressive 14 Trophies and 29 Gold Medals on the national wine show circuit since 2015.

Our highly acclaimed wines include Hunter Valley Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz.

We also source a selection of alternative varieties such as Vermentino, Pinot Gris and Tempranillo from various emerging New South Wales wine regions.

First Creek Wines Cellar Door is conveniently located right in the heart of Hunter Valley Wine Country.

The Silkman Family invite you to join the First Creek team for daily sales and tastings.

James Halliday Australian Wine Companion

HHHHH 5-star Winery 2011 - 2017 600 McDonalds Road Pokolbin 02 4998 2992 www.firstcreekwines.com.au

OPEN DAILY 10AM TO 5PM

PETERSON HOUSE PREMIUM SPARKLING WINES

CONTENTS

32

20 COME VISIT The Hunter Valley has a remarkable blend of unique experiences. Book your accommodation and tours online winecountry.com.au

NEWS

HunterValleyWineCountry

huntervalleywc

62 99 RESTAURANTS & CAFES

News, views and reviews

EXPLORE

Enjoy local produce & brews

WINE

61 MADE IN THE HUNTER

13 ON THE GRAPEVINE Social media highlights

Five tasty food and wine experiences

14 SNIPPETS

20 PRIVATE PASSIONS

27 TOUR DE FORCE

Go behind the scenes on a winery tour

32 CROWNING GLORY

Learn all about Verdelho, that refreshing summer drop

39 WHEN ONLY THE BEST WILL DO

The trophy winners at the Hunter Valley Wine Show

huntervalleywc

DINE Huntervalleywc

44 49 SAVOUR THE FLAVOUR

Three locals share their secret passions

FOLLOW US

49

44 THRILL OF THE GRILL

Chefs share their favourite grill dishes

Spotlight on a distillery

62 VROOM WITH A VIEW Meet two locals who love Cadillacs

67 SPLASH PADS

10 places to stay with pictureperfect pools

73 WHAT’S ON

A round-up of must-visit events in the region

DISCOVER 79 HUNTER VALLEY VISITOR GUIDE

Your guide to the region

84 CELLAR DOORS

Sample the region’s awardwinning wines

Get a taste for the Hunter Valley way of life

106 GOURMET 109 TOURS

Discover the secrets of the Hunter Valley

115 EXPERIENCES

Enjoy a range of activities and attractions

123 ACCOMMODATION

Find your Hunter Valley home

133 WEDDINGS

Wedding venues and services

136 SERVICES

Essentials to cover all your needs

MAP 137 REGIONAL MAP

Get where you want to go with our pull-out touring map

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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Hunter Valley Magazine is produced for the Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association by

Level 4, 10–14 Waterloo Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010

WELCOME

ADVERTISING MANAGERS Nicole Prioste 02 4932 7123

Welcome to the ninth issue of Hunter Valley Magazine, which showcases the best wine, food and other experiences in Australia’s oldest wine region.

Established in the early 1800s, the Hunter Valley has a rich heritage of winemaking and viticulture, and there’s no better way to learn about that history than on a winery tour. In this issue, we’ve compiled a list of some top tours where you can find out what happens behind the scenes in our wineries (on page 27) and introduce you to Verdelho (on page 32), a crisp, refreshing white wine that’s perfect to sip beside the pool.

You can also discover the winning wines at the Hunter Valley Wine Show on page 39, the recipes our chefs love grilling when the weather warms up on page 44 and five tasty food and wine experiences you must try on page 49.

While the Hunter Valley is steeped in history, our region is also filled with new, innovative and exciting experiences such as distilleries, craft beer producers and much more. Take a look at our interview with a local award-winning distiller on page 61 and find out how a couple’s tree change was inspired by their love of Cadillacs on page 62. We also reveal some places to stay with picture-perfect pools on page 67 so you can cool off after a hard day’s sightseeing.

Plus, you’ll find visitor information, business listings and a regional map to help you get around. Everything you need to have a fabulous getaway like no other!

Kylee Dixon 02 4932 7123

The Hon. George Souris AM

PRINTING PMP Printing Limited

Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association

EDITOR Brenda Christian HEAD OF CONTENT Nick Snelling EXECUTIVE CREATIVE DIRECTOR Matt Batten SUBEDITOR Michael Ryan ART DIRECTORS Kristy McKay, Guy Pendlebury SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER Emma Rogers ACCOUNT DIRECTOR Meghan Winger MANAGING PARTNERS Fergus Stoddart, Richard Parker

The distribution records of this publication have been submitted for independent audit with the Circulations Audit Board.

No responsibility will be taken for the return of unsolicited manuscripts, images or materials. The opinions of contributing authors do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Reproduction of any content of this publication (including images and text) for any purpose is prohibited, unless prior written permission is obtained from the publisher. Prices, specifications and availability of products and services were correct at the time of printing and may change without prior notice. In this publication you will see advertising material submitted by third parties. Individual advertisers are solely responsible for the content of advertising material they submit to us, including ensuring that it complies with all relevant laws and regulations. Neither Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association nor the publisher accepts any responsibility whatsoever for the content of any advertising material contained herein, including, without limitation, any error, omission or inaccuracy therein.

A selection of the images featured have been sourced from Getty Images and Thinkstock.

COVER PHOTO

Photographer: Chris Elfes

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Chairman

SHARE WITH US HunterValleyWineCountry

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OUR CONTRIBUTORS

DANIEL HONAN

Former BBC journalist, Daniel Honan is a food and drinks writer, photographer and presenter. He writes for The Newcastle Herald’s Weekender magazine, and contributes to Halliday, Selector, Alquimie and Wine NZ magazines.

RICK ALLEN

Rick is a former newspaper editor who branched out in recent years into travel and wine writing. His work has appeared in Gourmet Traveller, The Sydney Morning Herald, The Sun-Herald and London’s Sunday Telegraph.

LULU WILKINSON

Lulu believes in creating quality content in the best form for what it needs to do. She has edited magazines, written features for Cleo and Cosmo, and headed up the digital offerings for Big Brother, Gallipoli, Offspring and more.

CHRISTINE SALINS

Christine Salins is a travel writer, wine columnist, restaurant reviewer and judge. She edited the Canberra Times food and wine section for eight years and has freelanced for more than a decade, contributing to many publications.

Like a fine wine

Cypress Lakes Resort gets better with age

Celebrating it’s 25th anniversary this year Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort in the Hunter Valley has never been better.

Come and experience the bespoke menu design by locally renowned Executive Chef Adam Bartley and pair it perfectly with an array of local wines on offer.

Smart dining, dinner from 6pm - The Restaurant @ Cypress Lakes Casual dining, breakfast, lunch and dinner daily - Cypress Lakes Bistro & Bar

oakshotels.com Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort | 15 Thompsons Road, Pokolbin, Hunter Valley | P (02) 4993 1555

NEWS SOCIAL

ON THE GRAPEVINE

THE TASTES, PLACES AND PLATES YOU’RE SHARING FROM YOUR HUNTER VALLEY TRIP. 1.

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#

HUNTER VALLEY

WANT MORE?

TAG #HUNTERVALLEY OR @HUNTERVALLEYWC AND SHARE YOUR PICS ON INSTAGRAM

2.

3.

1. Flashback from @kathellisphoto.

Winter sunsets in the Hunter Valley. #audreywilkinson 2. @newyburgerco The best kind of morning snack #cheese #wine #ushertinklercellardoor 3. @snapixstudio When you can’t make up your mind #huntervalley #gelato 4. @csc.xo Yesterday at Hunter Valley Gardens. 5. @charelle14 Dreaming of the Hunter Valley and drinking champagne for breakfast with my sis. 6. @thebrunchcouple When the breakfast in the Hunter Valley is as good as the wines. We were recommended to go to Cafe Enzo in the Hunter Valley and it did not disappoint. 7. @adrian_fowler Hunter Valley Vineyards. Rolling green landscapes, wine and cheese and exploring in the sun will always make me happy.

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NEWS SNIPPETS

3 SMASHING SEMILLONS Summer equals seafood, and if you’re looking for the perfect wine match you can’t go past a Hunter Valley Semillon.

They’re known for their zesty lemon and lime flavours, and fresh, crisp taste.

Here are three of the editor’s faves.

1. Thomas Wines 2017 Braemore Semillon $33 Andrew Thomas is responsible for seducing me into drinking Semillon… well his Braemore Semillon is anyhow. It was the first Semillon I tried that I just loved from the first sip and started my love affair with the Hunter’s signature white wine. It’s mouth-wateringly refreshing and crisp, with incredible fruit flavour. thomaswines.com.au

THE HORSE WHISPERERS It’s all about wine and whinnies at Olivia and Martin Pukanic’s Dark Horse Vineyard. It’s hard to work out which they love most – their small-batch, single-vineyard wines or their Warmblood horses, Doni and Doll. They’ve cleverly combined both in their beautiful, barn-like cellar door, which sells equestrian-inspired homewares alongside Semillon, Chardonnay, Shiraz and Rosé. And yes, the wines have horsey handles like the Unbridled Semillon.

If you want to wine, dine and enjoy even more whinnies, grab a ticket to Polo in the Vines at Dark Horse Vineyard on April 7, 2018. There will be gourmet food by a celebrity chef with matching wines, a polo lounge where you can rub shoulders with the players, live music and the fashionista’s favourite – Fashions on the Field. For tickets, go to ticketek.com.au.

Visit the cellar door at 386 Wilderness Road, Lovedale. darkhorsevineyard.com.au

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2. Gundog Estate 2017 Wild Semillon $30 I love this wine as it’s a real twist on traditional Semillon.

It’s funky and fun, and a bit more full-bodied than most Semillons. It’s very aromatic and also slightly sweet so it matches well with spicy Asian dishes. Go on, take a walk on the wild side. gundogestate.com.au 3. Allandale Winery 2017 Semillon $22 This delicious drop is a favourite when it’s #wineoclock. It’s hard to pass up a chilled glass of this white, made with fruit from three different Hunter Valley vineyards. It’s fresh, citrusy and downright more-ish. Enjoy it while it’s young and vibrant or let it mellow out for 10 years or so. allandalewinery.com.au

71 0 2 OV 2018 N 3 N E JA T A L

EXPERIENCE A CHRISTMAS TRADITION LIKE NO OTHER Every year thousands of families come together to celebrate the magic of Christmas at the beautiful Hunter Valley Gardens.

Our annual event includes millions of lights, Santa’s Workshop and new and exciting rides that all the family will enjoy.

So come join us and create memories to last a lifetime.

AROUND THE WORLD

MAGICAL DISPLAYS

SANTA’S WORKSHOP

For information and online tickets go to hvg.com.au Broke Road Pokolbin - Ph: 02 4998 4000 Accommodation available at harrigans.com.au Admission charges apply. Program subject to change. Snow Time activities are open during event hours only. Some activities may not open in adverse weather conditions and for unscheduled maintenance.

Terms and conditions of entry apply. *Swing Chair and HVG Super Slide - 110cm-120cm must ride with an adult, 120cm and above may ride alone. User pay for HVG Super Slide, Swing Chair and Ferris Wheel.

Follow us on

NEWS SNIPPETS

WINE DICTIONARY

CHOCOLATE INDULGENCE “No room for chocolate,” said no-one ever!

There’s always room for a cheeky darkchocolate button or a block of rocky road, particularly when it’s made by pastry chef and chocolatier Aymee Slaviero, who opened her chocolate shop at Keith Tulloch Estate in 2015. It’s gone gangbusters ever since.

“We go through about 100-150 kilograms of chocolate each week,” Aymee says. “We use a French chocolate called Weiss, which is a small branch of the Valrhona brand (the most renowned French chocolate).”

And what do chocoholics love best?

“Our beautiful hand-painted chocolate bonbons are the most popular,” she says.

Each chocolate is hand-painted with layers of coloured cocoa butter then moulded and filled with different fillings from praline, ganache and jellies. Macadamia Butter Crunch is also a big seller, but we are always working on new flavours; the latest is Lemon Meringue Pie which has marshmallow, lemon caramel, cookie crumb and vanilla ganache.”

Visit Cocoa Nib @ Keith Tulloch Wine, corner Hermitage and Deasys Roads, Pokolbin. cocoanib.com.au

Capsules Nope, not talking about antibiotic capsules the doctor prescribes when you’ve got the flu. In the wine industry a capsule is that foil wrapper at the top of the wine bottle. It’s pretty much decorative nowadays but was traditionally used to protect the cork from being nibbled on by cockroaches and mice when bottles were stored in dark underground cellars.

BLACK BEAUTY EXP Restaurant owner/chef Frank Fawkner loves black garlic so much he started a food line, Fawk Foods, dedicated to the sought-after ingredient.

“Black garlic has such a unique flavour and has many health benefits, and not many people know about it, so I want to make it known and more available to the public,” Frank explains.

He uses Australian garlic, which is heat-treated for several weeks to caramelise it and produce black cloves that have a funky, charry, balsamic vinegar-like flavour.

So, what can you do with this

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so-called superfood?

“Black garlic is great to use as a condiment. At the restaurant at the moment we smear it on a wagyu steak served with mustard and greens. It’s also great mixed through mayonnaise to go with seafood or blended with butter to make black garlic bread.”

You won’t find it in your average supermarket so head to fawkfoods. com where you can order bulbs and paste.

Rd ds Do nal Mc

Broke Rd

Visit our cellar door.

Open every day, with the exception of Christmas Day and Good Friday.

Mc Do

nal

ds

Rd

Broke Rd

McDonalds Road, Pokolbin 02 4998 4111 mcguiganwines.com.au #McGuiganWines #BringaMcGuigan

NEWS SNIPPETS

ASK THE EXPERT The Hunter Valley’s Rising Star of the Year and senior winemaker at First Creek Wines, Rauri Donkin, gives a brief rundown on wine bottle shapes and sizes.

Why do some types of wines have differently shaped bottles than others?

Wine bottles come in an array of shapes, sizes and colours. The shape does not impact wine flavour, but it does represent history and tradition, and reflect where the wine is made. Typical bottle shapes in the Hunter Valley are Burgundy bottles for Shiraz, Semillon and Chardonnay, and Claret bottles (also called Bordeaux bottles) for Cabernet and some Semillon.

And what about all the different sizes?

How much do they hold?

• Split or Piccolo holds 187ml.

• Half bottle holds 375ml.

• Bottle holds 750ml (standard size).

• Magnum holds 1.5 litres (2 bottles).

• Double magnum holds 3 litres (4 bottles).

• Jeroboam has two sizes: a sparkling wine jeroboam holds 3 litres (4 bottles); a still-wine jeroboam holds 4.5 litres (6 bottles).

• Imperial holds 6 litres (8 bottles).

• Methuselah is the same size as an Imperial (6 litres) but usually for sparkling wines.

• Salmanazar holds 9 litres (12 bottles).

• Balthazar holds 12 litres (16 bottles).

• Nebuchadnezzar holds 15 litres (20 bottles).

• Melchior holds 18 litres (24 bottles) – my personal go to size, says Rauri!

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PICK OF THE BUNCH Winemakers are busy harvesting grapes to make the region’s premium wines between January and March, but you can get in on a bit of the action too. At Tinklers Wines & Produce you can pick your own table grapes from December to March.

They have 30 varieties of wine and table grapes, but it’s so popular you need to book ahead. 53 Pokolbin Mountains Road, Pokolbin tinklers.com.au

#HUNTER HOUNDS Lake’s Folly’s furry PR rep, Lilly Belle, has been greeting cellar door customers since 2003 and is still going strong at 14.

These days, people often come specifically to see her!

Name: Lilly Belle Breed: Golden retriever Age: 14 human years Owner: Rod & Sandra Kempe Pet hate: The postie and thunderstorms Favourite furry friend: Lucy (RIP) Dirty deeds: Rolling in anything that smells… after she’s had a wash Claim to fame: Featuring in the first edition of Wine Dogs Australia (2008), and the soon-to-be-released fifth edition (2017)

S AY D N 7 TO N N PE R O HO T

THE BIG UGG BOOTS Leisurely 30 minute drive from the vineyards.

DAILY TOURS MONDAY - FRIDAY 11AM, NO BOOKINGS REQUIRED. SHOP Browse Mortels large range of sheepskin & Australiana products

MUSEUM Be fascinated with Australia’s rich sheepskin history & Mortels 60 years of manufacturing.

CAFÉ Sit, relax, and enjoy delicious meals & coffee at Mortels Café.

FACTORY TOURS Watch, hear, feel and smell the real workings of an UGG boot factory on a fully guided tour.

Since 1958

Directions

mortels.com.au

Hunter Valley NSW

MORTELS SHEEPSKIN FACTORY

Opening Hours:

1 Weakleys Drive, Thornton NSW

Monday - Friday

8:30am - 5pm

Saturday & Sunday

9am - 2pm

Public Holidays

Closed

(+61) 02 4966 0990

  

www.mortels.com.au

PRIVATE PASSIONS

OUR LOCALS ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT WINE AND SOME OTHER SURPRISING THINGS TOO! WORDS: BRENDA CHRISTIAN

PHOTOS: CHRIS ELFES

Sa lly Sc ar bor ough

SCARBOROUGH WINE CO. PRIVATE PASSION “I was actually a little late to the Dr Who phenomenon,” Sally Scarborough says.

“My brother, Jerome, loved it when he was little and I watched it when I was younger as well but I really became a massive fan with the reimagining of the modern series. That said – Tom Baker is definitely still my favourite Dr Who. “I remember watching Dr Who when we were little, and more often than not I would get too scared, and my brother and I would watch it from behind the couch.

Funnily enough, my son at the same age does the same. When it gets really scary he hides behind the lounge chair. My son and I generally try to watch it every Monday night together, which is always fun. It’s nice to have that connection to a pop-culture thing across generations.

And as for those local rumours that she owns a sonic screwdriver?

“I don’t actually have a sonic screwdriver, my son does… as well as a Tardis, and a Tardis doona and pillowcase courtesy of his Aunty Lizzy and Uncle Jez, who are mad Dr Who fans.

“If we are all spending Christmas together we try and watch the Christmas

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special together – it’s a fun family tradition when we can make it work.”

WINE PASSION Sally is known locally as the Chardonnay Queen so it’s no surprise what her wine passion is.

“It’s terribly predictable but I am a huge Chardonnay fan and I just love the renaissance of Australian Chardonnay currently. I truly just love the diversity of styles that we can get from all over Australia.

“There isn’t one particular region that I look to for Chardonnay – I just really enjoy seeing how a particular region can shape the style of a particular variety.

“When not drinking Chardonnay, I’m a big fan of Riesling and Gruner Veltliner and then, of course, Aperol Spritz [an Italian aperitif cocktail] is right up there on my secret passions.”

Scarborough hangs its reputation on the Chardonnay grape and makes four different Chardonnays, which you can taste at either cellar door.

179 Gillards Road and 972 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin. scarboroughwine.com.au

WINE PASSIONS

WINE PASSIONS

Mike De Iuliis

DE IULIIS WINES PRIVATE PASSION “I started playing guitar when I was about 13,” Mike De Iuliis explains while strumming a Martin 00L-17 acoustic guitar in the winery.

“My love of music came from my Dad, who bought me a CD player when I was in either year five or six. It was 1985 or 86 and the CD was ‘new technology’, which I thought was amazing. One of the first albums I got was Springsteen’s Born in the USA with that iconic picture of him with his Fender Telecaster slung over his back. It got me interested in guitars.

“So Dad told me if I stuck with it and learnt three songs, he would ‘upgrade’ my beaten-up, no-name, handed-down acoustic guitar with a brand-new guitar of my choosing. By the time I learnt those songs I had progressed from Springsteen to Guns N’ Roses and my new guitar idol was Slash, so, in 1989 my first choice was a Gibson Les Paul Standard in a sunburst finish (very rock’n’roll).

“I now have an undisclosed (for fear of my wife finding out) number of guitars, across different brands and styles.”

So does he see any parallels between guitars and wine?

“I do see guitars as unique works of art.

You can go from a cheap Chinese massproduced thing that might cost $200 to a handmade custom, or vintage, guitar worth thousands. And it’s the same with wine, you can drink cheap massproduced stuff, or get an expensive rare or old bottle. You can still get enjoyment out of a cheap bottle of wine, as you can out of a cheap guitar, but I like unique wines that are handcrafted or have been carefully cellared and pulled out on a special occasion. As with an expensive

guitar, no two are the same, they all have their idiosyncrasies.

“The only thing I do know from experience is it is much easier to sneak an expensive bottle of wine into the house without my wife noticing than it is to sneak a new guitar in!”

And as for Elvis? “Who doesn’t love the King,” he says with a laugh.

WINE PASSION As well as guitars, Mike is passionate about promoting the Hunter Valley classics, Semillon and Shiraz, but he’s particularly fond of Shiraz.

“There are so many different interpretations of Hunter Valley Shiraz within our region and that’s why I like it so much. Everything from bright and fruity to the traditional midway style.

“It’s also a really underappreciated Australian style of Shiraz,” he adds. “It’s more well suited to the cuisines we eat and our climate than the really big rich styles from other regions.

“We’ve done pretty well in wine shows with Shiraz and usually have four to five different Shiraz out of 15 wines on our tasting list at the bar.”

1616 Broke Road, Pokolbin dewine.com.au WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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David Hook

DAVID HOOK WINES PRIVATE PASSION “Strictly Ballroom is one of my favourite movies,” David Hook says with a laugh when he sees the outfit I’ve brought him to wear for the photo shoot. And it’s no surprise really as he is a fan of dance in all its forms, particularly contemporary.

“I was lucky enough to go to the first Sydney Dance Company (SDC) show after Australian choreographer Graeme Murphy took over in the 1970s and was immediately hooked (pardon the pun).

“It was fascinating watching Graeme work with the dancers [Graeme led the company for 30 years].

It was a journey with SDC as they developed contemporary dance in Australia, and through that association it also introduced me to other contemporary dance.

“I started following dancers who left SDC and went to other dance companies like Chunky Move [a contemporary dance company in Melbourne],” he says.

David was introduced to a whole world of contemporary dance, which has exploded and developed over the past 20 to 30 years “There’s Bangarra Dance Theatre [the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander contemporary dance company], the Adelaide Festival and Sydney Festival feature contemporary dance in their programs, and The Australian Ballet now has one show a year that is contemporary-based that we go to – they’re following the trend too.”

David and partner Sherry have season tickets with the Sydney Dance Company and head to Sydney regularly to attend

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performances. They’ve also been a sponsor in the past.

“They had a ballet called De Novo and served our wines – the David Hook De Novo Bianco and De Novo Rosso wines.”

WINE PASSION Speaking of wines, what is David’s wine passion?

“I guess it would have to be Italian varieties. I had Italian neighbours who grew Pinot Grigio and it was that association with early plantings in the Hunter Valley that got me interested in Italian wines.”

“I worked in Europe for 10 years – mainly working in the South of France – but visited Italy often, hence my fascination with all things Italian.”

At the moment, he has seven Italian varieties for tasting at the cellar door – three whites and four reds, but Barbera is his all-time favourite.

“Barbera is a great everyday drink – good fruit, it’s relaxed and great with food. It’s not a pretentious wine, it’s just a very drinkable and enjoyable red wine.”

Cnr Ekerts & Broke Roads, Pokolbin davidhookwines.com.au

WINE PASSIONS

ff

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WINE TOURS

TOUR DE FORCE

PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

CURIOUS ABOUT WHAT HAPPENS BEHIND THE SCENES IN OUR WINERIES? FOR A SNEAK PEEK YOU CAN’T BEAT A WINERY TOUR. WORDS: DANIEL HONAN IF YOU’VE GOT wine on your mind and want to know more than just what each variety tastes like, you’d best book yourself a Hunter Valley winery tour. Learning how our world-class wines came to be will give you a deeper appreciation of what it takes to be able to squeeze a bunch of beautiful grapes into a delicious bottle of vino.

Not all wineries run scheduled tours, but here are some that do.

Make sure you wear comfortable, enclosed shoes and slap on a bit of sunscreen, because you will more than likely be taking a leisurely stroll through the vineyards where the grapes for our great wines are grown.

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TYRRELL’S WINES This very special tour will have you stepping back in time, to 1858 to be exact, when founder Edward Tyrrell built a slab hut (which still stands today) and planted grapevines on a hillside with sweeping views of Wine Country. The tour starts

PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

WINE TOURS

right underneath the Brokenback Range, next to one of the oldest vineyards in the Hunter Valley, and moves through into the old winery where you can see first-hand how some of Tyrrell’s best wines are made.

Then, follow the dirt floor to the old cellar door to taste a few of Tyrrell’s delicious

drops, like their outstanding Hunter Valley Chardonnays and Shiraz. The hourlong tours run every day from 10.30am and cost $5 per person. There is no need to book, just be on time.

1838 Broke Road, Pokolbin tyrrells.com.au

WHISPERING BROOK

PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

For a winery tour that’s as fun as it is educational, head west to boutique cellar door Whispering Brook, in Broke. Tours run from 10.30am Friday to Sunday, beginning in the cellar door before taking in a short walk past the vineyard with the magnificent Yellow Rock peeking up over the crest at the end of the vine rows. You’ll then head down into the olive orchard where rackety king parrots and cockatoos compete with cellar door manager Ron Corino, who explains how the wines are made. Back inside, just past the cellar door, the tour culminates with a wine tasting, including the Portuguese-inspired Touriga Nacional Shiraz blend, which happens right next to the barrels and tanks of the working winery.

Tours are $10 per person.

Rodd Street, Broke whispering-brook.com

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VINDEN ESTATE WINES Vinden Estate’s winery tour gives a great insight into how a bottle of wine comes into being. Tours run on weekends, starting at 10am each day, and are usually hosted by the family winemaker Angus Vinden, often accompanied by his trusty sidekick Eadie, his German shorthaired pointer. Angus has big plans for Vinden Estate, which he’ll tell you a bit about on one of the hour-long tours through the estate, where new Italian Aglianico vines have been planted and some compelling Hunter Valley wines are being made. Make sure you taste the Vinden Estate Rosé, or one of Angus’ own, very special, ‘Headcase’ wines. Tours are free, but book ahead to ensure your spot.

138 Gillards Road, Pokolbin vinedenestate.com.au

MCGUIGAN WINES “Winery tours are a great way to find out more about what’s in your glass,” says McGuigan’s cellar door manager, Gavin Roberts. “People get a kick out of seeing how our wines are made and where they come from.” McGuigan has won too many awards and trophies to list here (they’ve won International Winemaker of the Year a record four times!) and you can easily see why on their tour. Walk through their fully functioning winery on McDonalds Road where up to 1000 tonnes of grapes get crushed, fermented and transformed into wine each year.

Tours run at noon, seven days a week, with an additional tour at 11am on weekends. Tours cost $5 per person.

Corner Broke and McDonalds Roads, Pokolbin mcguiganwines.com.au

WINE TOURS

TALLAVERA GROVE VINEYARD

WANT MORE?

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HERMITAGE ROAD CELLARS & WINERY Down on the corner of Hermitage Road and Mistletoe Lane, a full-on immersive wine experience awaits you at Hermitage Road Cellars and the Hunter Valley Wine School.

Get the complete experience by booking a spot on the five-hour vino adventure, which includes a walking tour of the on-site vineyard planted with 50-year-old Shiraz vines,

followed by a picture-perfect ride in a horse-drawn carriage, before sitting down to a fun and informal wine tutorial and tasting experience with lunch at the end. Tours are $230 per person and include a personalised Hunter Valley Wine School Certificate to certify your grape adventure in Wine Country.

Corner of Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin hunterresort.com.au

PHOTOS: CHRIS ELFES

Nestled among the slopes of the Brokenback Range, Tallavera Grove hosts scheduled vineyard tours every Saturday and Sunday from 10.30am.

The tour takes in one of the prettiest views in all of Wine Country. Starting in the cellar door, a brief explanation of the Mount View soils prepares you for a walk through the beautiful verdant vine rows that gently slope down along the contours of the range. Intrepid winos are taken down into the vineyard and shown how the vines grow, before heading back to the cellar door to taste a selection of wines made from the same vines you have just walked amongst. The Semillon and Shiraz are, of course, outstanding, but so too is the weird and wonderful Rogue series ‘Shagadelic’ Shagrantino – a red blend of Shiraz and Sagrantino.

Bookings are essential. Tours are $12 per person and include a souvenir Govino tasting glass.

749 Mount View Road, Mount View tallaveragrove.com.au

Balancing tradition with innovation

Dark Horse Winery James Halliday 2018 Wine Companion Cellar door Wed - Sun | 138 Gillards Road Pokolbin, NSW 2320 Australia T (02) 49987410 | E finewines@vindenestate.com.au | W www.vindenestate.com.au

PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

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WINE VERDELHO

CROWNING GLORY

IT’S FRESH, FRUITY AND DOWNRIGHT DELICIOUS. IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A REFRESHING SUMMER WINE, GRAB A VERDELHO. WORDS: RICK ALLEN

EVERY YEAR AT the much-anticipated Hunter Valley Wine Show Celebrations Luncheon there’s a special ‘gong’ awarded – known affectionately as the tiara. It’s given to the winemaker who produces the best Verdelho.

Yes, it’s an actual tiara. Although, to be fair, it’s more your op-shop version than anything the Queen would be stepping out in. Understated glamour, if you like. And yes, the winning winemaker is expected to don it for the day and proudly have his or her picture taken.

So, what’s it all about?

Well, to keep the tiara imagery going, it is fair to say Verdelho has always been

the bridesmaid and not the bride.

The Hunter Valley has always had mixed feelings about Verdelho (pronounced ver-DELL-oh), the fruity white variety that originated in Portugal. It’s a bit strange really, because the Hunter Valley and Margaret River are Australia’s top regions for it.

And buyers love it.

In the Hunter, Verdelho sits at a distant number three in the white wine pecking order behind Semillon and Chardonnay. These are both noble varieties, no doubt, with wonderful pedigree and ageing potential. At their best they are truly magnificent.

Verdelho is a different beast altogether.

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PHOTOS: CHRIS ELFES

Simpler, fruitier, verdelho is designed to be drunk young and chilled. You won’t be rolling it around on your tongue searching for adjectives and contemplating its layers. Instead, you’ll just be enjoying it. Full stop. It has a generosity of flavour – a burst of tropical fruit salad flavour in the mouth and crispy freshness.

Another glass? Don’t mind if I do.

But here’s the thing: these tropical fruit flavours – think melons, pawpaw, bananas, lychee, mangoes, sometimes even lime and ginger – and zesty finish make it a wonderful starter for the novice drinker. As far as introductions to white wine go, it doesn’t get much easier. You’d be amazed the number of aficionados who put their start in wine down to a glass of chilled Verdelho.

Oh, and one more not-insignificant thing. Because Verdelho doesn’t see any oak in the Hunter (which can be expensive), the wine goes pretty much from the vineyard straight into bottle, which keeps costs down. This is a bottle of summer brightness that hits the shelves a bit either side of the $20-mark.

What’s not to like?

Let’s take a look at a few favourites.

TULLOCH WINES You can’t start anywhere else because Tulloch have championed the variety for 30 years (and Jay Tulloch sponsors the Verdelho [tiara] trophy). They make six different styles for heaven’s sake –

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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: TULLOCH’S LUSH VERDELHO VINEYARD; CHRISTINA TULLOCH; THE TULLOCH CELLAR DOOR IS OPEN DAILY; SEE SANDSTONE SCULPTURES AT TWO RIVERS; OWNER BRETT KEEPING ENJOYING THE SWEEPING VIEWS.

“It can age well. Over time you get these lovely honeyed flavours coming through.” from dry, through to semi-sweet, even a Moscato-style. Now that’s committed.

And when it comes to their much-loved Verdelho, Tulloch CEO Christina Tulloch is a passionate promoter.

“On any given weekend two of our top five selling wines will be Verdelho,” she says from the picturesque Tulloch cellar door in the heart of Pokolbin.

“We make it because it’s what the customers clearly want. It’s not only a great introduction to wine, it’s also a great match with Asian flavours, and we’re eating more and

more Asian food these days.

“And despite it mostly being drunk as a young, crispy wine, it can age well.

Over time you get these lovely honeyed flavours coming through.”

A quick sip of their signature Verdelho – the Tulloch 2016 Verdelho ($16) – and it’s a continuation of what Tulloch have been producing for years. Lots of florals on the nose, tropical flavours, subtle grassy notes and a clean, refreshing finish. Delicious.

638 DeBeyers Road, Pokolbin tullochwines.com

WINE VERDELHO TWO RIVERS WINES An hour north-west of Pokolbin is Two Rivers winery near Denman, and they, too, are big fans of Verdelho. By their own words, they “took a punt” in 1990 and planted a lot of Verdelho when there was not much around. Twenty-seven years later and they have no regrets.

It’s all still there and going from strength to strength.

“Verdelho has been great for us,” says owner Brett Keeping. “When we have a stall at a wine fair, it is invariably one of our big sellers. And it’s the same at the cellar door. People love it.”

Speaking of the cellar door, it’s proudly rustic – country charm with its inviting timbered tasting area, sitting amid those sweeping views that scream rural New South Wales. Another stunning feature is the ‘Custodians of the Landscape’ sandstone sculptures dotted throughout the property, which were carved onsite by international artist Ben Dearnley.

“As wine producers there’s just so much to like about Verdelho,” he continues. “It’s as tough as nails for

starters.” Point one made, he raises his index finger.

“It’s an early ripener, so it’s on the shelves and making money while other wines are still in barrel.” Up goes another finger. And then another...

“It doesn’t need any oak, which keeps costs down. It retains its natural acid. It packs a punch. Small, loose bunches is a plus too because there’s very little disease pressure.” By this time he has run out of fingers and is onto the other hand.

“And best of all our cellar door customers love it.”

So much so that Two Rivers, like Tulloch, produce multiple varieties – in their case, three.

First there’s a Hidden Hive Verdelho ($16) which is your typical, zesty style, as well as a sweeter, riper, late harvest Verdelho ($16), and finally a liqueur-style solera Verdelho (375ml $30) with creamy nut flavours – a huge hit at the cellar door.

2 Yarrawa Road, Denman tworivers.com.au

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CLOCKWISE FROM BELOW: VERDELHO GRAPES ON THE VINE; KRINKLEWOOD’S PICTURESQUE CELLAR DOOR; HUNGERFORD HILL’S TASTING ROOM; WINEMAKER BRYAN CURRIE PROUDLY WEARING THE VERDELHO TIARA.

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KRINKLEWOOD BIODYNAMIC VINEYARD Just outside Broke in another of Wine Country’s tranquil corners is Krinklewood, a certified biodynamic operation for the past 10 years.

It’s off the beaten track in a secluded spot well worth seeking out. Think wonderful views across the vines, herds of cows and a peacock or two wandering around, a light-filled tasting area, covered pergola area … and tasty wines.

Winemaker Peter Windrim is also a Verdelho devotee, but acknowledges some people think it’s not on trend.

“If I mention Verdelho at a wine show, people will start diving under tables to avoid me,” he says. “It’s much maligned right now, which is a pity.

“I like it on its own, but it’s also a great blending grape. In fact, we always have a percentage of Gewürztraminer in our Verdelho [$24], they go great together.”

“Our Wild White [$20] even has Verdelho blended with Gewürztraminer, Chardonnay, Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc.”

Now that’s not your everyday blend.

“Verdelho is also a terrific food wine and let me say while it might be out of fashion, those who know Verdelho stick by it. I guarantee the majority of our mailing list customers at Krinklewood will grab a case or two every year. They’re not put off by trends. They just know what they like.”

712 Wollombi Road, Broke krinklewood.com

PHOTOS: MJK CREATIVE

WINE VERDELHO

No story on Verdelho could be complete without talking to the 2016 tiara holders, Hungerford Hill (the 2017 tiara holder was announced just before going to print – see page 39) . Since that big day a year ago there have been some major changes at Hungerford Hill – a new owner and winemaker for starters, with Bryan Currie now in the hot seat as chief winemaker.

And yes, he’s been made very aware of their tiara win (no surprise their awardwinning 2016 Classic Verdelho has sold out, but the 2017 is available for $27 a bottle) and is another strong supporter of the variety. But what is it about the grape that he likes?

“It packs a punch. There’s lots of flavour intensity and richness there.

It also retains its acid which means as a winemaker you don’t have to tinker around with it too much. It shows that the grape variety is well suited here.

“At Hungerford Hill we’re really looking for a fresh, fruity, dry white. And Verdelho does all that.

“I also think it has a lot of the attributes that Sauvignon Blanc drinkers look for – tropical flavour profile, intensely fruited, richness.”

So, how would he feel about being pictured in a tiara? He laughs. “Why not?”

All that sparkles is not necessarily gold – sometimes it’s a humble white.

2450 Broke Road, Pokolbin hungerfordhill.com.au FIND MORE?

PHOTOS: CHRIS ELFES

HUNGERFORD HILL WINES

5 OTHER FAVOURITES 1. Gartelmann Jessica Verdelho 2016 $22 Juicy and bright with lots of tropical fruit bang – flavours range from passionfruit though to banana, and a little burst of grassy acidity for added interest. Very fresh, very lively and very nice.

2. Ernest Hill Rosalie Joan Verdelho 2016 $23 The Verdelho is grown on three acres down near Wine Country Drive.

There’s lots of zing on the tongue, apple and tropical

1.

2.

fruits holding sway, some stone fruit sweetness too. Dangerously easy drinking. Don’t say you haven’t been warned.

3. McLeish Verdelho 2017 $18 A flavour blast.

Pineapple richness, some passionfruit coming through too, and then a line of tangy, citrus crispness to finish. For sub-$20, it’s a steal of Great Train Robbery proportions. Ronald Biggs, come on down.

3.

4.

4. Briar Ridge The Dam Verdelho 2017 $23 The name? It grows beside the dam, of course. That aside, it’s damned moreish too. Vibrant in the mouth… is someone doing a salsa on my tastebuds? Just sip away and chill out.

5. Draytons Verdelho 2015 $20 Slight green tinge in colour, it’s brimming with lemon and lime aromas. On the tongue it’s soft and round.

A hot day, a chilled glass… and bingo! A tasty treat.

5.

FOR MORE CELLAR DOORS GO TO PAGE 84 OR VISIT WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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WINE AWARDS

WHEN ONLY THE BEST WILL DO THE JUDGES HAVE SPOKEN... AND WE REVEAL THE STAR WINES AT THE 2017 HUNTER VALLEY WINE SHOW. WORDS: DANIEL HONAN PHOTOS: CHRIS ELFES

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AN INTERNATIONAL JUDGE wowed by Hunter Valley Semillon.

A winemaking dynasty that swept all before them.

A young man thrilled at the chance to wear a tiara.

And a leisurely lunch where gold-medal winning wines were enjoyed and swapped between tables. Welcome to the 2017 Clear Image Hunter Valley Wine Show.

Off the back of a brilliant 2017 vintage, this year’s awards were held on the grounds of Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, in a grand marquee jam-packed with Wine Country’s best producers, all hoping to take home a trophy or two. This year, the locals were joined by international guest judge, Elaine Chukan-Brown, a wine writer from the USA. “This was the most congenial, the most respectful and the most naturally humble group of wine judges I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with,” Elaine said. “It was an incredible honour to be a part of the Hunter Valley Wine Show this year. It’s unlike any other wine show I’ve participated in.”

Over four days, 19 wine industry professionals joined forces at the Singleton Army Barracks to taste and judge over 600 wines, awarding 36 gold, 80 silver, and 165 bronze medals, along with 23 Wine Show trophies awarded across numerous wine class categories, including Best White and Best Red Wine of the Show. Wines were judged by a team of local, interstate and international judges, so by the time a trophy was THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: CHAIRMAN OF JUDGES PJ CHARTERIS; ARMY PERSONNEL WORK BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE WINE SHOW; FIVE TROPHIES WERE AWARDED TO SHIRAZ WINES.

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WINE AWARDS THIS PAGE LEFT TO RIGHT: THE WINE INDUSTRY COMES TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE AT THE AWARDS LUNCH; WINEMAKER ANGUS VINDEN WEARING THE VERDELHO TIARA WITH PRIDE.

“Hunter Valley Semillon is in a world-class category for a reason.” awarded, a wine had been tested and tasted by at least 20 professional palates.

For the second time, judges were given iPads loaded with special software that allowed them to type their notes and impressions of each wine, then score them in real time. But, even with the latest technology, there’s no substitute for the trusty spit bucket. This is where tradition and technology meet; with judges tasting an average of 90 wines a day, the spit bucket is still an essential tool.

Chairman of Judges, PJ Charteris was pleased with the standard and quality of the wines entered this year, particularly from the 2017 Semillons and Verdelhos.

“There were some absolutely stonking Verdelhos made in 2017; lots of fresh, fruity styles with lovely acidity, which will make for great drinking over summer,” PJ said. “Current vintage Semillons were amongst the strongest I’ve seen,” he continued. “The wines are full of youthful, vibrant fruit with delicious body and texture, which made it a great class to judge. The out-of-town judges said they were all blown away by the strength of the ’17 Semillons, which, to me, is a great indication of a seriously good vintage.”

“Hunter Valley Semillon is in a worldclass category for a reason,” Elaine said.

“There’s no other Semillon like it in the

world. I get to taste quite a lot of examples of wines made with Semillon from many parts of the world, but none have the freshness and drive of a young Hunter Semillon, which also has the ability to accumulate amazing complexity, interest and richness over time. The Hunter Valley is the only region in the world that makes Semillon like this.”

Despite the challenges of 2015 and ‘16, both Charteris and Brown were impressed by the standard of many wines made in these years, especially Chardonnay and some of the alternative varieties.

“The ’15 Chardonnays look really good and will certainly hold themselves against any other Chardonnay in Australia,” PJ said. “I’ve also been surprised at the quality of Fiano and Vermentino [two Italian white wines], which both performed really well.”

“There’s certainly an innate delicacy to the fruit character of Chardonnay, which I really appreciate,” Elaine said.

“I’m also pretty curious to see how some of the Italian and Spanish varieties develop here,” she continued. “It will take time, but these varieties are definitely for people who are looking for something different and unexpected.”

While Tyrrell’s won eight trophies for whites, First Creek, Cockfighter’s Ghost,

Hart & Hunter and Vinden Estate also took home some silverware with Vinden winemaker Angus Vinden proudly donning the traditional tiara that goes with the trophy for best Verdelho.

However, it’s Shiraz that remains the undisputed king of Hunter Valley red wine, with five trophies being awarded to wines made from this variety. De Iuliis, Tyrrell’s, Ridgeview, and Silkman all received trophies.

“Liz and I feel very proud,” Shaun Silkman of Silkman Wines said, who, along with wife Liz, took out four trophies.

“To do well and be recognised amongst some of the Hunter’s best winemakers is something really special,” Shaun said.

Indeed, Shiraz was a stand-out variety for Elaine Chukan-Brown as well.

“There were some Shiraz wines that I thought were really lovely, even from the difficult vintages, and I think that speaks to the vineyard management and the winemaker’s experience,” Elaine said. “I think there’s an opportunity for incredible transparency for wine producers here to let their vineyards shine over and above any winemaking style and technique, because of the delicate and almost lacy fruit characters of many of the wines from the Hunter Valley. It’s certainly a special place for wine,” she added.

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WINE AWARDS

2017 TROPHY WINNERS Petrie-Drinan Trophy (sponsored by Clear Image) Best White Wine of the Show Tyrrell’s Vineyards 2009 Vat 1 Semillon (due for release 2022) Doug Seabrook Memorial Trophy (sponsored by Clear Image) Best Red Wine of the Show Silkman Wines 2015 Reserve Shiraz ($50, available at Small Winemakers Centre) Iain Riggs Wine of Provenance Tyrrell’s Vineyards HVD Semillon (2017 HVD Semillon due for release 2022) Marshall-Flannery Trophy Best Current Semillon First Creek Wines 2017 Winemaker’s Reserve Semillon ($50, available for purchase Oct 2017) Ed Jouault Memorial Trophy Best One-Year-Old Dry Semillon Agnew Wines Cockfighter’s Ghost 2016 Reserve Semillon (due for release 2018) McGuigan Family Trophy Best Mature Two-Year-Old and Older Semillon Tyrrell’s Vineyards 2009 Vat 1 Semillon (due for release 2022) George Wyndham Memorial Trophy (sponsored by Singleton Council) Best Current and One-Year-Old Chardonnay Hart & Hunter 2016 Twenty Six Rows Chardonnay ($40, available at cellar door) Henry John Lindeman Memorial Trophy (sponsored by Spicers Vineyards Estate) Best Two-Year-Old and Older Chardonnay

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Tyrrell’s Vineyards 2013 Vat 47 Chardonnay ($75, available at cellar door) J.Y. (Jay) Tulloch Trophy Best Verdelho Vinden Estate 2017 Verdelho ($30, available at cellar door) Murray Tyrrell Chardonnay Trophy (sponsored by Multi-Colour Global Label Solutions) Best Chardonnay Tyrrell’s Vineyards 2013 Vat 47 Chardonnay ($75, available at cellar door) Doug Galbraith Memorial Trophy Best Sweet White Margan Family Wines 2016 Botrytis Semillon (due for release 2020) Trevor Drayton Memorial Trophy Best Fortified Wine Mount Pleasant Wines NV Fortified ($90, available at cellar door) John Lewis Newcastle Herald Trophy Best Museum Red Tyrrell’s Vineyards 2007 Vat 9 Shiraz (not available) Graham Gregory Memorial Trophy Best Museum White Tyrrell’s Vineyards 2006 Vat 1 Semillon (not available)

Lone Pine Barracks Officers Mess Silver Bullet Vinden Estate 2017 Verdelho ($30, available at cellar door) Alexander Munro Memorial Trophy Best Current & One-Year-Old Shiraz De Iuliis Wines 2016 Shiraz ($25, due for release Oct 2017) Elliot Family Trophy Best Two-Year-Old Shiraz Silkman Wines 2015 Reserve Shiraz ($50, available at Small Winemakers Centre) James Busby Memorial Trophy (sponsored by Adhesif Labels) Best Mature Three-Year-Old and Older Shiraz Mount Pleasant Wines 2014 Maurice O’Shea Shiraz ($250, available at cellar door) Best Other Red Trophy Silkman Wines 2016 Reserve Shiraz/ Pinot Noir ($45, available at Small Winemakers Centre) Maurice O’Shea Memorial Trophy Best Semillon Tyrrell’s Vineyards 2009 Vat 1 Semillon (due for release 2022)

Tyrrell Family Trophy Best Named Vineyard White Wine Tyrrell’s Vineyards 2011 Stevens Semillon (not available)

Hector Tulloch Memorial Trophy (sponsored by Hahn Corporation) Best Shiraz Silkman Wines 2015 Reserve Shiraz ($50, available at Small Winemakers Centre)

Drayton Family Trophy Best Named Vineyard Red Wine Ridgeview Wines 2016 Impressions Shiraz ($40, available at cellar door)

Len Evans Trophy Best Named Vineyard Wine Tyrrell’s Vineyards 2011 Stevens Shiraz (not available)

PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

THIS PAGE: AMANDA’S ON THE EDGE RESTAURANT’S GRILLED BEEF EYE FILLET.

DINE GRILL

THE THRILL OF

THE GRILL THESE LOCAL CHEFS ELEVATE THE HUMBLE GRILL TO SOMETHING SPECTACULAR. WORDS: STEPHANIE CLIFFORD-SMITH

THERE’S A THEORY that the alluring smell of burning meat in a bushfire was the catalyst for prehistoric man to start cooking. One thing he would have discovered is that meat was more tender cooked, which eliminated the need for lengthy chewing, eventually causing his descendants to lose their characteristic heavy jaw in the evolutionary process.

The technical simplicity of grilling means there’s barely a culture on earth that hasn’t fallen for its smoky charms.

Think chicken satay skewers fanned over charcoal in Indonesia, Thailand’s grilledbeef salads zinging with lime and chili, Ikan bakar – fresh fish grilled in banana leaf – a beloved dish of the Malays. Meanwhile,

the Japanese will throw anything on the teppanyaki grill, the Italians give their Bistecca alla Fiorentina the grill treatment and Germans love their grilled sausages.

With temperatures on the rise, restaurants Hunter-wide are getting their grill on, reigniting the love of smoke and char that has been hardwired into us for millennia.

At Amanda’s on the Edge, beef eye fillet shines on the grill. “We always go with an eye fillet because it’s a fail-proof, delicious cut of meat,” says chef Amanda Paton. “It’s not as flavoursome as cuts like rump or ribs but it’s so tender and melts in the mouth.”

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DINE GRILL

PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

“We use Cape Grim 180g scotch fillet steak rather than mince for the burger.

It’s the real McCoy.” GRILLED BEEF EYE FILLET WITH A GRUYERE CHEESE, THYME AND POTATO GALETTE, PARIS BUTTER AND ROASTED ESCHALLOT SERVES 4 • 4 beef eye fillets • oil • salt and pepper • 4 eschallots Potato galette • 4 large Desiree potatoes • 100g Gruyere cheese, grated • 1tbs chopped fresh thyme • 100ml clarified butter • salt and pepper to taste Paris butter • 20ml lemon juice • 10g anchovies • ¼ cup chervil • ¼ cup basil • ¼ cup parsley • 2 shallots • salt and pepper to taste • 250g salted butter Method 1. Preheat oven to 180°C. 2. Make the Paris butter: whiz all ingredients except butter in a kitchen blender. Fold the blended ingredients into softened butter (which has been left at room temperature to soften for 1 hour). Place butter on cling wrap and roll into a large sausage. Refrigerate for 1 hour until cold. Once cold, it can be cut into rounds to be placed on top of the beef fillet when serving.

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3. Oil beef fillets and season with salt and pepper. Place in refrigerator until ready to cook and allow to come to room temperature before grilling.

4. Make the galette: peel and thinly slice the potatoes, place in a bowl with all other ingredients and gently mix with your hands. Line a high-sided baking tray with baking paper and press all ingredients into the tray evenly. Bake at 165°C for 45 minutes until golden. Remove from oven.

5. Roast the eschallots at the same time as the galette.

6. Heat barbecue grill or grill plate on cooktop until very hot.

7. Sear beef eye fillet on a grill plate, then finish cooking in a 165°C oven for 10 minutes for medium-rare, 15 minutes for well done, then rest for 5 minutes before serving.

8. Serve a beef fillet topped with a round of Paris butter, a wedge of potato galette and a roast eschallot.

Wine match: Rothvale Amanda’s Cabernet Sauvignon Amanda’s on the Edge, 1039 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin, 02 4998 7900 amandas.com.au

THE DECK CAFE @ GARTELMANN WINES 701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale, 02 4930 9007 deckcafelovedale.com.au It’s no ordinary burger on the grill at this cafe and, besides being the most popular dish, it’s what chef Matt Dillow chooses most often for lunch as well. “We use Cape Grim 180g scotch fillet steak rather than mince for the burger. It’s the real McCoy,” he says. “That cut eats very easily, chews very nicely and has a lovely flavour.” Matt gets the grill good and hot first to seal the meat well and cooks it to medium rare. The burgers are on brioche buns, which are light and slightly sweet. The beetroot relish, caramelised onions and smoky barbecue sauce are all from Matt’s own ‘Matt’s Produce’ line, the combo given crunch with the classic additions of lettuce, tomato and cucumber.

Wine match: Gartelmann Diedrich Shiraz

DINE GRILL

RIDGEVIEW RESTAURANT 273 Sweetwater Road, Pokolbin, 02 6574 7332 ridgeview.com.au Grilling isn’t just about meat, as chef Donna Hollis knows all too well. Her signature dish is grilled Greek haloumi with caramelised pears and pistachios, and customers are mad for it. “I took it off the menu once when I first started over five years ago and all the locals complained. I had people coming up to the pass in the kitchen protesting. I made a fatal error and I’ve seen the light. I put it straight back on and it’s staying on,” says Donna.“Grilling gives the haloumi a better flavour and then we throw it into the oven just to soften it down a bit more.

Topped with the pears and pistachios, and fresh oregano from our garden, it’s a mixture of salty, sweet and nutty. It’s a great combination.”

Wine match: RidgeView Impressions Chardonnay

ESCA BIMBADGEN 790 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin, 02 4998 4666 bimbadgen.com.au The superior flavour of secondary cuts can still be enjoyed grilled as long as the meat has been slow cooked first in the sous-vide, says chef Daniel Shafer. “I’m using flank steak at the moment, which we chargrill to order to give it more depth of flavour,” he says. Those smoky notes are echoed in a buttery puree of roasted onions and a blackened baby cocktail onion. “We serve it with slowly poached bone marrow and black beer sauce,” Daniel says.

Wine match: Bimbadgen Reserve Shiraz

THE MILL RESTAURANT @ ESTATE TUSCANY corner Hermitage Road and Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin, 02 4998 7288 estatetuscany.com.au The Mill’s chef Emilio Llausas is a fan of grilling in general, believing the smoky flavours enhance all kinds of meats and vegetables. When the weather warms up, seafood stars on his menu with a seafood dish of the day given the grill treatment. “In spring and summer, barramundi is a hit with diners,” he says. “We grill the barramundi and serve it with pickled vegetables, beetroot, daikon, grilled octopus carpaccio and a refreshing miso emulsion pepped up with lime juice.”

Wine match: Allandale Pinot Gris

LOVEDALE SMOKEHOUSE CAFE 64 Majors Lane, Lovedale, 02 4930 7832 majorslane.com Chef Ben Sales has looked to Texas for inspiration for his American beef short ribs. “We first brine the meat in a mix of honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, pickling spice, water and salt for 24 hours. Then the meat is dried and rubbed with a savoury mix of coffee, pepper and cocoa. It then goes into the smoker for up to six hours over grapevine timber.”

This lengthy process results in fallapart tender meat, says Ben. “In Texan barbecue terms this would be a grill, though it may not be in the traditional Australian sense of the word. It’s a really popular dish – we sold over 60 kilos of these ribs in the first week.”

Wine match: Majors Lane Peppercorn Block Shiraz WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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DINE EXPERIENCES

SAVOUR THE

FLAVOUR

THE HUNTER VALLEY IS BLESSED WITH AN ARRAY OF FOOD AND WINE EXPERIENCES. HERE ARE FIVE TASTY TREATS TO TRY.

PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

WORDS: CHRISTINE SALINS

DINE EXPERIENCES

PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

THIS PAGE: WATCH EMERSON PLATE UP FROM THE BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE.

EMERSON’S CHEF’S TABLE If you want to know what makes a restaurant tick, talk to the chef. Better still, take a seat in his kitchen.

Emerson Rodriguez moved his Emerson’s Cafe & Restaurant to the picturesque Adina Vineyard three years ago and the first thing he did was redesign the kitchen to accommodate a table for two.

“A lot of European restaurants do it but no-one in the Hunter Valley was doing a chef’s table,” he says.

It’s a small kitchen so the experience is strictly limited to two. With just four people working in the kitchen, guests can get up close and personal with Emerson and his team, conversing with them as they work. Guests are encouraged to choose the eight-course degustation menu so they can make the most of the experience and really get a sense of what goes into producing a beautiful meal.

“Most of the people we get are foodies,” says Emerson, citing the example of a Sydney couple who were so delighted with their experience that they returned a few days later with a thank-you card.

“They were blown away by what a well-

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“A lot of European restaurants do it but no-one in the Hunter Valley was doing a chef’s table”. oiled machine the kitchen is. They had so much more appreciation for how a kitchen is run and what it takes to get a meal out, and they were really thankful for that.”

Surrounded by vineyards and an olive grove that could almost be in Tuscany, Emerson’s serves fine food using local produce, such as micro herbs, Hunter Valley cheese, pasture-raised chicken and beautiful finger limes grown just up the road. Most of the wines on the list are from the Hunter Valley, including more than 20 available by the glass.

Emerson even forages for some of the food himself, going into the bush for pine mushrooms and slippery jacks, and heading to the coast for Warrigal greens, sea celery and Turkey rhubarb.

The personal touch doesn’t end there; he spends his nights off making ceramics, including water cups that are used in the restaurant and plates and bowls that show off his food to great effect.

EMERSON’S CAFE & RESTAURANT @ ADINA VINEYARD 492 Lovedale Road, Lovedale 02 4930 7029 emersonsrestaurant.com.au

$100 for two people to sit in the kitchen, plus $105 per person (8-course degustation; food only) or $155 per person (8-course degustation with matching wines).

‘Best Small Cellar Door Lower Hunter’ Gourmet Traveller WINE Magazine 2013 ‘Five RED Star Winery’ 2017 James Halliday Wine Companion ‘Finalist - Winemaker of the Year’ 2017 Hunter Valley Wine Industry Awards ‘Matthew Jukes’ 100 Best Australian Wines’ 2015 & 2016 Wild Semillon

DINE EXPERIENCES

THIS PAGE: ENJOY A MINI-DEGUSTATION OF BITE-SIZED DISHES WITH PREMIUM HUNGERFORD HILL WINES.

EPIC TASTING EXPERIENCE @ HUNGERFORD HILL The experience of tasting Hungerford Hill’s premium wines with beautiful food prepared by Muse Dining is, in a word, epic. The winery has put together three Epic Tasting Experiences that are held Wednesday to Sunday.

Choices include a Classic Tasting of four wines with four tasting bites for $30, a Collection Tasting of four wines with four tasting bites for $40, and an Ultimate Tasting of eight wines with six tasting bites for $60. Prices are discounted for Hungerford Hill club members.

The highlight of the Ultimate Tasting is undoubtedly Hungerford Hill’s flagship Epic Shiraz. At $120 a bottle, its inclusion in the line-up, paired with a lamb slider and caramelised onion, makes it truly a tasting of epic proportions.

At the gateway to the Pokolbin vineyards, the Hungerford Hill cellar door stands out with its sleek architectural lines, distinctive barrel-shaped annexe and striking interior. Cellar door supervisor Rebecca Irvine drew on her experience

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in hospitality to design the tasting experience a few years ago.

She says that while a lot of restaurants offered food and wine matching, none of the region’s cellar doors were offering food and wine appreciation. “Our visitors were always saying how great a wine would go with a particular dish.

Now instead of them imagining it with food, they can sit down and try it.”

The winery worked with its muchlauded onsite restaurant Muse to create the Epic Experience. “Having a highcalibre restaurant onsite… it was really a perfect fit,” Rebecca says.

Chef Troy Rhoades-Brown blends creative flavours with seasonal produce to create his masterful dishes. For the

Epic Experience, that translates into exquisite pairings such as Hunter Valley Fiano with spanner crab and sweet pea arancini balls. This has been one of the most popular matches to date, the tropical fruit flavours of the Fiano complementing the delicate sweet flavours of the dish.

EPIC TASTING EXPERIENCE @ HUNGERFORD HILL 2450 Broke Road, Pokolbin 02 4998 7666 hungerfordhill.com.au

Classic Tasting $30, Collection Tasting $40, Ultimate Tasting $60.

Hunter Valley Chocolate, a Valley icon, Family owned and operated for seventeen years!

Our Boutique Chocolate and Fudge Factory offers a unique range of Chocolate and Chocolate products plus more than 30 flavours of Fudge…

A “taste tempting” range of locally produced gourmet products… A Coffee Lounge with indoor/outdoor seating… and More!

Our continued success can be attributed to the four pillars of the business…

- PASSION - PERSISTANCE– DEDICATON --EXPERIENCE Come visit and … “Taste the Difference”!

Open 7 Days 9am - 5pm Factory/Store - 2320 Broke Road Pokolbin NSW 2320 @ Peterson House - Broke Road Pokolbin NSW 2320 Shop 5 - Hunter Valley Gardens Pokolbin NSW 2320 admin@hvchocolate.com.au www.hvchocolate.com.au

Ph:(02)4998 6999

DINE EXPERIENCES

THIS PAGE: FOR A TOP ALFRESCO DINING SPOT YOU CAN’T BEAT MARGAN’S OLIVE GROVE OR ON THE GRASS BESIDE THE CHICKENS AND KITCHEN GARDEN.

MARGAN RESTAURANT & WINERY If you’ve ever imagined yourself dining in a vineyard or olive grove, Margan Restaurant & Winery will create a bespoke experience that is certain to be unforgettable. A table for two amongst the vines? No problem. A long table lunch in the olive grove? Sure thing. Or perhaps you’d like to dine in the kitchen garden, with the chickens scratching at your feet?

“The chickens will annoy you, but we’re happy to set it up if that’s what people want,” says restaurateur and chef Lisa Margan.

The garden is not just a few planter boxes of herbs and vegetables, it’s a full acre of seasonal produce that supplies the restaurant’s Mediterranean-inspired menu almost in its entirety. “Ninety percent of what’s on the menu comes off the property,” says Lisa. “We create our menus around the produce.”

Herbs and salad greens, heritage tomatoes, baby beets, carrots, cucumbers, zucchini flowers and even lesser-known produce such as the crunchy root vegetable, yacón, grow within metres of the light-filled dining room.

“Recently we had four people who

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“Recently we had four people who helicoptered in and wanted to dine amongst the vines.” helicoptered in and wanted to dine amongst the vines,” Lisa says. “We’ve had five marriage proposals and we certainly have anniversaries. We have couples who come back every year.”

Lisa and winemaker husband Andrew also rear lambs in this tranquil, rural setting. They have beehives that provide fresh unfiltered honey, and a flourishing fruit orchard adjacent to their olive grove and vineyard.

The Margans have become the Hunter’s pin-up stars for eating locally and sustainably. What they don’t grow or produce on the estate, they source from nearby producers, including Wagyu beef, pigs from Krinklewood biodynamic farm, mushrooms and olive oil from Broke.

The restaurant dry ages its beef and makes its own butter and charcuterie.

The five-star dining experience is complemented with current and back vintage Margan wines as well as a collection of other Hunter greats.

MARGAN RESTAURANT & WINERY 1238 Milbrodale Road, Broke 02 6579 1317 margan.com.au

From $180pp, which includes 5-course degustation with matching wines, tea and coffee, and personal waiter. Other bespoke dining options POA (weather dependent).

“Quality without compromise”

WE ARE FAMILY MISTLETOE is a small family owned and run winery that was established by the current owners in 1989. Now in its 28th year, Mistletoe’s “no-compromise” approach to producing small quan��es of “true to origin” premium 7 1 0 2 quality wine has seen it rewarded with many, many hundreds osé Hunter R of awards and accolades. f o tage 20th Vin e!

With three genera�ons of the founding family now ac�vely engaged in running this Win the business on a day to day basis, Mistletoe is a truly unique family winery.

NOW TASTING

With over 20 different wines, including Sparkling, Whites, Reds, Rosés, For�fied and Dessert styles on tas�ng, Mistletoe has one of the most comprehensive ranges of wines to be seen in the Hunter.

• All wines are made in our onsite winery • Winery tas�ngs available for larger groups – bookings essen�al!

• Mistletoe Wines are only available for purchase from the Winery Cellar Door • Knowledgeable and friendly staff to make you welcome When visi�ng Mistletoe be sure to take �me to visit POKOLBIN GALLERY and MISTLETOE SCULPTURE GARDEN also in the grounds of the Cellar Door.

Open 10am until 6pm daily | 771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin 2320 PH 1800 055 080 FAX 02 4998 7792 E office@mistletoewines.com.au | www.mistletoewines.com.au

DINE EXPERIENCES THIS PAGE: 50 DECADENT DESSERT AND WINE PAIRINGS AT SABOR.

SABOR DESSERT BAR Fernando Antao’s favourite dessert is usually the last one he created, but if there’s one he’s particularly proud of, it’s his Raspberry Macaron Heaven with strawberry mousse and raspberries. He pairs it with Muscat of Alexandria, a still, not overly sweet Moscato.

You might envy Fernando, who spends a lot of time working out which wines go with which desserts. Each of the 50 desserts on his Sabor Dessert Bar menu is matched with a Hunter Valley wine, and Fernando and his wife Renata have sampled every duo.

“It sounds glorious, but it’s not,” he says. “We did it over two weeks when we were setting up the menu and it was hard work. Four or five of us make the desserts and once that’s done we try each dessert with three or four different wines to pick out the one we think works the best. Now the menu is set up, it’s a lot easier.”

Nevertheless, there’s always something new for guests to discover.

“If you came once a week, every week, for a year, you wouldn’t taste the same dessert twice,” he says.

Fernando, who has a Portuguese background, and Brazilian-born Renata ran a wholesaling business, distributing their Portuguese chocolate mousse and rice puddings around Australia, before opening in Lovedale seven years ago. Since their move to Pokolbin two years ago, the Lovedale venue is used

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for high teas.

With views of Lambloch’s vineyard and Brokenback Range, the Pokolbin dessert bar offers around 50 desserts, with more than 40 on display. When a customer makes a selection, it is taken to the kitchen and plated with sauce and other embellishments.

“You don’t have to have wine with it. A lot of people will go for a coffee instead.”

Yet the wines are a highlight, and they’re all local, with a huge range on offer, including dessert wines, port and liqueurs. There’s even a passionfruit cider with passionfruit cheesecake.

Probably the most popular match of all time has been the medley tasting plate with Lambloch Doux, a sparkling botrytis Semillon.

“We have a big local following.

People like the variety of desserts, the

colours, the garnishes, the flavours.

There’s no other dessert bar like this in Australia, doing just desserts. The only other things we do are scones, ham and cheese croissants, and a cheese plate. It’s truly a dessert and wine experience.”

Fernando says their guests can pick any wine they want “but pretty much everyone trusts us”. With a palate honed on decadent desserts, it’s easy to see why. Be sure to pace yourself.

SABOR DESSERT BAR @ LAMBLOCH ESTATE 2342 Broke Road, Pokolbin 1300 958 939 saborpokolbin.com.au

Various prices, according to selection.

133 reasons to visit Tempus Two 2 016 O U T S TA N D I N G W I N E S H O W S U C C E S S

6 x Trophies 1 x Top Gold 2 x Double Gold 16 x Gold 40 x Silver 68 x Bronze

We are proud to celebrate the success of our born and bred Hunter Valley winemaker, Andrew Duff. His passion to make quality wine has produced a record number of awards across our Pewter, Copper and Varietal series.

Cheers to you, Andrew.

Trophies include: CHINA WINE & SPIRITS AWARDS Australian Wine of the Year – Pewter Series Chardonnay 2014 CAIRNS WINE SHOW Champion White in Show – Pewter Series Chardonnay, Poppy’s Block 2015 CAIRNS WINE SHOW Champion Wine in Show – Pewter Series Chardonnay, Poppy’s Block 2015 RIVERINA WINE SHOW Best Chardonnay of Show – Pewter Series Chardonnay, Poppy’s Block 2015 RIVERINA WINE SHOW Best Wine in Show – Pewter Series Chardonnay, Poppy’s Block 2015 HUNTER VALLEY WINE SHOW Best Rosé of Show – Copper Series Shiraz Rosé 2016

Taste these award winners at our Cellar Door. #tempustwo

Contact

Taste

Enquiries welcome Cellar Door +61 2 4993 3999 Open 7 days

Tempus Two Cellar Door Crn Broke & McDonalds Rds Pokolbin NSW 2320

T E M P U S T W O.C O M . A U

DINE EXPERIENCES

PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

THIS PAGE: LEARN WHAT WINE TO SERVE WITH WHICH CHEESE AT TWO FAT BLOKES GOURMET KITCHEN.

CHEESE & WINE EXPERIENCE, TWO FAT BLOKES GOURMET KITCHEN Matching wine with cheese can be hard to get right but when it works, it can be a marriage made in heaven. Jan Molenaar, the enterprising guide behind Two Fat Blokes, loves the Hunter Valley, loves sharing it with visitors, and loves cheese.

He also enjoys discovering which wines create the perfect match for cheese.

Guests who check in for the Two Fat Blokes Cheese and Wine Experience, held twice a day at Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen at De Iuliis Wines cellar door, are often pleasantly surprised by the pairings he comes up with.

Who would have thought a De Iuliis Chardonnay would go beautifully with Hunter Belle’s Briebelle, a deliciously rich triple cream brie? It works, Jan says, because the Chardonnay cuts through the creaminess of the cheese.

People’s faces light up when Jan suggests a Moscato slushie with a Spanish manchego and quince paste.

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“It’s basically an alcoholic slushie,” he tells his guests. “How can you go wrong?”

The one-hour cheese and wine experience is held every day at 11am and 2.30pm in a dedicated room adjacent to the deli/cafe overseen by Jan’s wife, Julie.

More than 90 cheeses are sold in the shop, with Jan choosing nine of them to be matched with De Iuliis wines for the Cheese and Wine Experience.

Each session takes about one hour and marketing manager Desly Harris says people love the fact that they sit down and have all the selections placed in front of them. There might even be a few laughs.

“You take it as seriously as you like … it depends on the group really. It’s not like a school session. It’s done professionally but it’s a lot of fun,” Desly says.

Jan is one of the Two Fat Blokes but what about the other? Desly explains that it was originally a partnership with Peter Firth, aka ‘Sir Lunchalot’, before Molenaar bought his fellow gourmand out.

TWO FAT BLOKES GOURMET KITCHEN @ DE IULIIS WINES 1616 Broke Road, Pokolbin 02 4998 6699 twofatblokes.com.au/tour/cheesewine-experience

Cheese and Wine Experience $25.

WANT MORE?

FOR MORE WINE AND DINE EXPERIENCES GO TO WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

EXPLORE DISTILLERY

MADE

IN THE HUNTER GET INTO THE SPIRIT OF THINGS AT THIS CRAFT DISTILLERY IN THE HEART OF THE HUNTER.

PHOTOS: CATH BOWEN

WORDS: BRENDA CHRISTIAN I’M GOING TO let you in on a Hunter Valley secret – our winemakers don’t mind a refreshing G&T after a hard day’s winetasting. Lucky for them, we have our very own award-winning distillery smack-bang in the heart of Wine Country.

“We have several people in the wine industry who are regular customers,” says Hunter Valley Distillery’s cellar door manager Neil Langdon.

“In fact, we’ve converted one from wine to spirits,” laughs head distiller Matthew Elliott (pictured above). “Paul Addis used to work in the wine industry but now works alongside me as a distiller!”

I’m guessing he made the switch after tasting Copperwave Gin – Australia’s first organic gin (and did I mention it’s my husband’s favourite gin?).

“It’s aromatic, distilled in the traditional London Gin method, but we distil the botanicals separately and then blend them just like fine wine,” explains Matthew. “It’s our best-selling gin, by far.”

Apart from Copperwave, they also produce a spicy Jailhouse Gin and a new

pink gin with native botanicals. So what is driving Australia’s thirst for super premium gin?

“I think versatility is a factor,” says Neil, “as you can use it in a variety of cocktails, but the main reason is the wide-ranging flavour profile. There’s a whole world of spices and herbs used in craft gin nowadays. In fact, a lot of our customers prefer to drink their gin neat

so they can enjoy the flavour of the different botanicals.”

While all three gins have core botanicals, they do have seasonal variations and the plan is to offer seasonal tastings to reflect the differences in the botanicals they’ve foraged.

But there’s more to Hunter Valley Distillery than just gin – they also make eight flavoured vodkas and around 15 flavoured schnapps and liqueurs.

“Our butterscotch schnapps, caramel vodka and mango liqueur are really popular,” says Neil,” but my favourites are the chocolate vodka and ginger liqueur.”

For Matthew, it’s the coffee vodka.

And their newest tipple? “I love rum,” explains Matthew, “so I wanted to experiment and we’ve just released 300 numbered bottles of what I believe is Australia’s first certified organic rum.

It’s a real collector’s item.”

They’ve recently installed a new 1200-litre still, alongside the original two 300-litre stills to cope with growing demand.

“We’ve tripled our product range since the distillery opened in 2012,” says Neil.

“And with some award wins in 2016 – we picked up a bronze medal for our Valli Premium Certified Organic Vodka at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the Australian Distilled Spirits Awards – business is booming.”

Visit the distillery daily at 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin hunterdistillery.com.au

3 BEST SELLERS COPPERWAVE GIN

With 11 botanicals, this gin has loads of citrusy aromas and spicy Asian flavours. 500ml $70

CARAMEL VODKA

A silky-smooth mouthful of caramel goodness – great on ice or served over ice-cream.

500ml $57

MANGO LIQUEUR

A sweet mango aroma and refreshing flavour makes this an ideal base for a summer cocktail. 500ml $42

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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EXPLORE PROFILE

VROOM

WITH A VIEW THIS COUPLE’S TREE CHANGE WAS INSPIRED

BY THE LOVE OF A V8 CADILLAC AND MAGICAL RURAL VIEWS. WORDS: LULU WILKINSON

DEBBIE MAIDEN HAS spent the night picking ticks out of an echidna. “He was huddled up near the house so I knew something wasn’t right,” she explains.

“Hopefully that will give him a little boost, it would have been making him sick.”

Sixteen years ago, Debbie couldn’t have imagined she’d be living what she describes as ‘her dream’. Acreage in the Hunter Valley, a beloved Shire horse named Mia stomping gently around the property, worried echidnas to save and rogue roos leaping in front of her vintage Cadillacs. But, perhaps ironically, a love for those V8 classic Cadillacs was the very thing that led her and husband Dave to a more peaceful existence.

“Dave and I met through friends and a shared love of vintage American cars,” Debbie explains. The couple both owned Pontiacs and quickly fell in love with each other – and the Cadillacs. “They’re just amazing looking vehicles – they’re works of art,” muses Debbie. “And they sound fantastic.”

“It’s the whole era as well, I am fascinated by it. If it’s a lovely day, I might get the old 50s and 60s dresses and sunnies out and all that. I love the

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PHOTOS: CATH BOWEN

music too.” Debbie is also in the process of redoing the interior of the family home in mid-century Modern style.

“It’s a lot of fun,” she says.

It’s easy to imagine a smiling Debbie at the wheel of one of her Cadillacs when she describes a typical day. “When we’re driving around, even though we’re at work, it’s just so lovely,” she says. “You’re not in traffic, there’s no road rage, you’re just cruising and there’s beautiful scenery everywhere. My office is the Hunter Valley! People say to me, ‘you’ve got the best job in the world’ and I agree.”

It was 2001 when the pair decided to move to the Hunter. “It had long been a dream to get my own land and have a horse on it,” says Debbie. During their search, they found land near the historic hamlet of Clarence Town that had been subdivided. “As soon as we walked on it, we knew it was the one,” says Debbie.

“It’s all open. From down the road you don’t realise there’s a view and people drive up and are just stunned – it’s magnificent.”

They built a house on the block with sprawling views over the Williams River flats and, of course, a huge shed for the

“My office is the Hunter Valley. People say ‘you’ve got the best job in the world,’ and I agree.” cars and paddocks for the horses Debbie dreamed of. “I got two rescue horses originally, which I still have now. They’re almost 25. I also got a mini horse for the kids called Little Buck and finally, I got my big heavy horse, Mia.” Add a fluffy white dog named Rufus, koalas in the trees surrounding the property and a friendly mob of roos popping up to the house to say hello of an evening and Debbie and Dave had created their perfect oasis.

Debbie’s keen to add to the brood – she originally raised two black Angus calves (“They were like puppy dogs – so affectionate and tame!”) and is ready for more cattle to wander the land. With three chickens clucking under foot, a vegetable garden and six snake-hunting guinea fowl, Debbie says the family aims to be as self-sufficient as possible.

“There’s nothing like home-grown

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veggies, and the chooks give us eggs too.”

It’s fitting that it was a simple ‘driving day out’ that really inspired their business.

The pair had recently moved from Sydney to the Hunter Valley and had started hiring out the cars for use in weddings on the weekends. During a rare day off, Debbie took Dave for a birthday drive around the Valley in their convertible Cadillac. At every stop, they were asked if the car was for hire for wine tours. “We quickly realised there was a market for it,” Debbie explains.

Debbie had been considering returning to work after having triplets, Anneke, Lysette and Matthew (now all 18) and caring for both them and their older son, James, 20. “The kids had gotten to the age where they were more manageable, the company was already going and I said to Dave, ‘How about we really start the business we’ve always talked about?’”

EXPLORE PROFILE

That meant wine tours during the week and weddings on the weekend. “It also meant using the cars so they didn’t sit in the garage doing nothing.”

Dave, a mechanic by trade, is instrumental to the success of Hunter Valley Cadillacs. “The cars are expensive to run but it’s the parts and maintenance that really push the limits and, without a doubt, we couldn’t have been as successful without Dave doing so much work on them,” reveals Debbie.

The family has two huge sheds on the property that house the cars and a fully-fledged workshop that allows Dave to do preventative maintenance on the vehicles.

It also helps that one of their sons is a panel beater who will soon join the pair in driving cars on weekends. “He’s got the bug too,” laughs Debbie. “No-one is getting into my convertible though!”

The convertible is what Debbie calls “her baby”, but she is quick to add she considers all the cars as family.

In the fleet currently is a 1958 Cadillac Limousine. “She’s a very rare car,” confirms Debbie. “We found her in Phoenix, Arizona and as far as we know, there are about 35 of them left in the world.”

The 1960s convertible – aka Debbie’s baby – was also collected from the States.

“I love convertibles,” says Debbie.

“They all drive differently, they all have their own personalities. And that car, I just love it.”

The 1959 Cadillac sedan is all about chrome and has the biggest tail fins ever

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: DAVE KEEPS THE CADILLACS IN TOP SHAPE; THEIR DREAM GARAGE; DEBBIE AND HER SHIRE HORSE MIA; CRUISING AROUND ENJOYING THE SCENIC BEAUTY.

made by Cadillac. “People love it for that,” explains Debbie. The newest car in the fleet is the 1970 Cadillac convertible. “Dave bought that for himself because I don’t share mine,” Debbie says with a grin.

But despite her clear affection for the vehicles, Debbie’s love is grounded in reality. “Dave and I are both very practical people,” she muses. “As much as I love them and we look after them really well, they’re vehicles… and the enjoyment is in driving them. You can’t be precious about them.”

Her favourite stretch of road? “I love driving down Palmer’s Lane,” she says.

“It’s lined with gum trees and quite often there are kangaroos there. It’s quiet and you can see blue sky through the tree tops, touching one another in the middle. It’s stunning.”

It’s not just the cars that Debbie takes a practical stance on – her Shire horse Mia is in training to be a work horse on the property too. “She does

bits and pieces now,” shares Debbie.

“She’s only four, so she’s still learning and growing. I’m hoping she doesn’t grow any taller though – she is about 17.2 hands high now!”

“Like the cars, I don’t really like to show her and Mia doesn’t like it either.

She gets really fidgety and starts playing up. You put a buggy behind her though and she’s happy as anything. She just wants to work… I think I’m much the same!” she laughs.

In between work, there are a few moments snatched for pleasure – and hugely savoured. Debbie’s favourite place in the Hunter is The Verandah Restaurant, enjoying a long lunch in the sunshine, looking over the gardens and vines. “It’s got everything,” she adds.

Book a winery tour or wedding fleet at huntervalleycadillacs.com.au

WANT MORE?

DISCOVER OTHER TOUR OPERATORS IN THE HUNTER VALLEY AT WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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at The Vintage Hunter Valley Vintage Drive Pokolbin NSW 2320

Hotel 02 4998 2500 | Golf 02 4998 2610 | Spa 02 4998 2504 | Restaurant 02 4998 2613 www.chateauelan.com.au

EXPLORE POOLS

SPLASH PADS IF THE CRISP HUNTER WHITES AREN’T QUITE COOLING YOU DOWN, STAYING SOMEWHERE WITH A POOL IS SURE TO DO THE TRICK. WORDS: LULU WILKINSON

SPICERS VINEYARDS ESTATE “As we only have 12 rooms, the pool is often only occupied by one or two couples,” says Spicers Vineyards Estate’s general manager Clare Bremerkamp, adding that guests are always welcome to relax around the pool with a drink and a light snack. While the pool has been part of the hotel since inception, it has since been updated to a fresher, modern style.

“Summer is definitely the predominant month for guests to enjoy a dip, however we are quite lucky in the Hunter to be spoilt with glorious weather most of the time,” explains Clare.

Should the weather turn however, the Estate also features an outdoor spa, heated all year long. “Our guests love it,” Clare says. Jenny, from the UK is one guest who overwhelmingly agrees. “It was a pleasure from the moment we arrived,” she says. “From the chill-out music playing to the house cocktail brought to us next to the fabulous swimming pool, it was one of the best boutique hotels we have ever stayed in. The slate pool was such a tranquil, peaceful place to be, we didn’t want to leave!” spicersretreats.com/spicersvineyards-estate

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EXPLORE POOLS OPPOSITE: CROWNE PLAZA HUNTER VALLEY’S HUGE POOL. THIS PAGE: DEGEN VINE STAY’S INCREDIBLE POOL VIEW; ENJOY POOL GAMES WITH THE KIDS; DO SOME LAPS AT ESTATE TUSCANY.

CROWNE PLAZA HUNTER VALLEY An absolutely huge swimming pool (measuring 20m x 25m) and spa, surrounded by an expansive deck area with multiple lounges means you are bound to find your perfect nook for sun and relaxation at the Crowne Plaza. You can munch on pizzas or sip cocktails poolside in between your swim. The popular pool is solar-heated to 27°C and is frequently listed as a terrific feature in guest reviews. It is certainly a big drawcard for families visiting the area as the hotel also offers a Kids’ Club, ride-along train and carousel, ensuring the little people are left as happy as the big ones. crowneplazahuntervalley.com.au.

DEGEN VINE STAY After a blisteringly hot summer and more than a few comments about how wonderful the property would be if there was a pool, the team at Degen listened and acted. Their freshly built and carefully designed pool was completed in November 2016.

“It just made sense,” says Sasha Degen, marketing manager of Degen Vine Stay. “We’ve had quite a few weddings around the pool, it’s really popular for that,” she adds. “The pool deck itself is very large and has gorgeous transparent glass which really creates a sense of openness.” Adding the pool after the house was established meant that the team had time to really consider the best location to gain maximum impact. “From its position up on the ridge, you can look down to the [property’s] vineyard and across to Bimbadgen Estate,” says Sasha. The pool itself has a large step as part of the design, which creates a cocktail ‘lounge’. “It is the perfect place to have a glass of wine… sunset is magic and at night, it is all lit up.” degenwines.com.au/vine-stay/

ESTATE TUSCANY The ultimate in romance, Estate Tuscany’s outdoor pool is the ideal spot to lounge and relax. It’s also a decent length for

a few laps if all the cheese tasting and wine drinking prompts an impulse to stretch the muscles. You might even spot a few friendly roos nearby checking out your form! Estate Tuscany is a boutique hotel on 26 acres, which also features a tennis court and eateries onsite. You can even bring your pooch along for the trip in some of the rooms, although Fido is not encouraged to go for a swim with you. estatetuscany.com.au

LOVEDALE COTTAGES It’s during the winter months that Rosie Herminjard, co-host of Lovedale Cottages, is most thankful for their pool. Being indoors and heated, with an adjoining undercover picnic area, the pool is a magnet for visiting families. “Customers love it as the kids can swim in winter and don’t get sunburnt [in summer],” Rosie says. The pool is used year-round and with its basketball hoop, timber-cladded walls and exposed rafters, it’s a hugely inviting place to have fun and keep everyone entertained. lovedalecottages.com.au WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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EXPLORE POOLS

“It was incredible to have an early morning swim in the pool, watch the hot-air balloons float by and the sun come up.”

OAKS CYPRESS LAKES RESORT With their one, two, three and four-bedroom villas set in a tranquil location overlooking the lake, Cypress Lakes Resort is one of the most popular accommodation choices in the Hunter Valley, for good reason. There are no less than three pools – the hero featuring a gorgeous outlook onto the lake and golf course – with lounge chairs and umbrellas dotted around so you can make the most of some well-earned chill time.

“It was incredible to have an early morning swim in the pool, watch the hot air balloons float by and the sun come up. Just paradise,” says Whitney, a guest from Sydney. Apart from golf, you can also enjoy a hit of tennis, a bike ride or workout at the fitness centre. oakshotels.com

KIRKTON PARK HUNTER VALLEY Guests at Kirkton Park Hunter Valley enthuse that when it’s very hot, the indoor pool is a great place to take cover and cool off after a day of adventuring. “Originally, it was an outdoor pool which was then converted into an indoor heated pool,” explains Emily Nicol, Kirkton Park’s sales, marketing and events co-ordinator. “Our pool is [now] a luxurious space with a Grecian feel due to the statues and design,” she adds. The hotel utilises the area – which also has a spa, mini gym and sauna – for barbecue dinners, lunches for conference guests or as a wetweather option for wedding ceremonies. “We have a beautiful pool house courtyard with outdoor barbecue and egg chairs, creating an inviting space for our guests,” says Emily, adding that it’s a family friendly option as well. “The pool is popular with the children that stay with us, as we offer inflatable pool toys for them to enjoy.” While it’s a gorgeous space at all times, it’s particularly stunning as the sun goes down, when you can see a classic Hunter Valley sunset streaming through the windows and balcony. kirktonparkhuntervalley.com.au

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THIS PAGE FROM TOP: ENJOY SOME WELL-EARNED CHILL TIME IN THE SUNLOUNGES BESIDE THE POOL AT OAKS CYPRESS LAKES RESORT; TAKE A DIP ANYTIME IN CHATEAU ELAN AT THE VINTAGE’S POOL, WHICH IS HEATED ALL YEAR ROUND.

LEFT & BELOW: POOLSIDE SNACKS; KIRKTON PARK HUNTER VALLEY’S INDOOR POOL.

CHATEAU ELAN AT THE VINTAGE “The pool is lovely,” confirms Dee from Sydney, who describes Chateau Elan as her “hotel of choice when going to the Hunter Valley.” She and her husband stayed in a one-bedroom villa she says is “absolutely stunning”, which comes complete with a gas fireplace to warm you up if you need somewhere to get cosy after your dip, although as Kim Waterhouse, head of marketing and communications at The Vintage explains, “Our pool is heated all year round.” The five-star spa resort has 18 treatment rooms, a fitness centre and luxe suites with spas, along with a Greg Norman designed golf course. “Customers love the calming, relaxed environment of the lap pool and spa,” says Kim. “I think everyone should stay there if they get the chance!” enthuses Dee. chateauelan.com.au

NIRVANA VISTA RESORT If you’re looking for a divine spot for a wedding, the 54-acre Nirvana Vista Resort is perfect and its sandstone pool simply adds to the stunning offering. With Brokenback Range as a backdrop, the romantic seven-bedroom country estate is also available for reunions, anniversaries and conferences, or just a weekend away with friends. “We get a lot of extended families and older people who love it because the house is all on one level,” says owner Dennis Stewart. “Everyone loves the pool.

It’s got nice landscaped gardens surrounding it, while the pool itself is an oyster shape and has a sandstone wall around three

sides with a glass fence on the fourth that looks out towards the garden. The sides provide protection from the wind, because we are up on a hill.” While the hill may attract wind, it also delivers unbelievable panoramic views, perfectly showcased from the pool. “It doesn’t matter the time of day or weather conditions, the views are always spectacular,” confirms Dennis. nirvanavista.com.au

INGENIA HOLIDAYS HUNTER VALLEY Located in Cessnock, it’s hard to find a better-value family offering than Ingenia Holidays Hunter Valley. It has cabins (including poolside villas), campsites and caravan spots available and there are outdoor barbecues, a wood-fired pizza oven and jumping pillow for the kids to play on in between games of Marco Polo in the pool. Nestled inside the outdoor pool is a spa, which is great for smaller children to play in as it’s quite shallow. With very reasonable pricing, this park is the perfect place for the kids to have a splash in the pool while adults enjoy one in their glass. As the Ingenia team put it themselves, “Is there anything better than wine, camping and happy kids?

We don’t think so.” ingeniaholidays.com.au/hunter-valley WANT MORE?

FOR MORE PLACES TO STAY WITH A POOL VISIT WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU/ ACCOMMODATION

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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WHAT’S ON A round-up of events and activities you won’t want to miss

POKOLBIN PRIDE

MEGA CREATURES

FRI 20–MON 22 The Hunter Valley will don rainbow colours for its annual Pride festival with a mix of great food, wine and music events. pokolbinpride.com.au

SAT 23 SEP–SUN 8 OCT Immerse yourself in the land of the Mega Creatures at Hunter Valley Gardens these September school holidays. See the giant animatronic Mega Bugs and brand-new dinosaurs, including a Tyrannosaurus rex, Stegosaurus, Triceratops, Spinosaurus and loads more.

TODD MCKENNEY SINGS PETER ALLEN: THE PIANO SESSIONS SAT 21 Few, if any, have done as much to celebrate the life and music of Peter Allen as Todd McKenney, who delighted audiences as the original star of the musical The Boy from Oz. McKenney has been shaking Allen’s maracas in various guises ever since.

hvg.com.au

OCTOBER

ticketek.com.au. operainthevineyards.com.au

HUNTER VALLEY UNCORKED BALMORAL

STONEHURST LONG TABLE LUNCH

SUN 8 This popular festival is held on The Esplanade at Sydney’s beautiful Balmoral Beach. It showcases more than 20 premium Hunter Valley wineries, along with leading restaurants and producers, live music and more. Free entry. winecountry.com.au

SAT 14 Enjoy a ‘farm to plate’ five-course gourmet feast with matching organic Stonehurst wines, live jazz and good friends amongst the poplar grove at Stonehurst Cedar Creek. Phone 02 4998 1576. stonehurst.com.au

OPERA IN THE VINEYARDS SAT 14 Australia’s beloved annual celebration of food, wine and opera will be staged for the first time at the luxurious Cháteau Élan. It’s been transformed into an intimate, VIP, seated-only concert with local wine, cheese, chocolates and more. Bookings through

cessnockperforming artscentre.com.au

ROSE SPECTACULAR @ HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS SAT OCT 14–SUN NOV 12 Visitors will be greeted by an incredible sensory explosion of colour and fragrance as they view 35,000 rose bushes across the property, with 6000 inside the rose garden itself. Come along and see over 50 varieties of roses, with hundreds and thousands of blooms as part of the annual Rose Spectacular. hvg.com.au

MIDNIGHT OIL SAT 21 Iconic Australian band Midnight Oil rocks into Hope Estate as part of their first world tour in more than two decades. The Oils will be supported by Birds of Tokyo and Ash Grunwald. frontiertouring.com WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SPECTACULAR @ HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS

FIBREFEST 2017 SUN 22 Last year’s inaugural Fibrefest, at the Sisters of Mercy Convent’s Sacred Spaces in Singleton, was such an outstanding success that the Knitters Guild of NSW is once again holding a day of everything fibre, with workshops, demonstrations, retail vendors, food and music. knittersguildnsw. org.au

THE POPULAR MECHANICALS THU 26 Shakespeare’s greatest clowns, the rude mechanicals from A Midsummer Night’s Dream, take centre-stage in this wild reimagining of what might have happened off-stage during the Bard’s most-loved comedy.

ENDEAVOUR HARMONY CHORUS – A CAPPELLA IN THE CHAPEL CHRISTMAS EVENT

cessnockperforming

FRI 29 Australia’s premier female barbershop chorus returns to the stunning chapel at Sisters of Mercy Convent in Singleton to give a wonderful concert, singing four-part harmonies a cappella.

artscentre.com.au

winecountry.com.au

SCULPTURE IN THE VINEYARDS SAT OCT 28–SUN DEC 3 Enjoy the latest in contemporary outdoor sculpture by talented Australian artists and wander through the picturesque landscape of the Wollombi Valley at this annual event. Sample premium boutique wines and local produce as well as a bespoke range of public programs, guided tours, artist talks, artistled workshops and degustation tours. sculptureinthe vineyards. com.au

NOVEMBER CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SPECTACULAR @ HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS FRI NOV 3–LATE JAN 2018 Celebrate the magic of Christmas and make memories that will last a lifetime. This year there are some exciting new rides including a beautiful carousel, swing chairs and a stunning ferris wheel. There will also be more than two million lights on display, entertainment and so much more. Special night rates apply. Closed Dec 25. hvg.com.au

80S FEST SAT 4 Five of the biggest 80s acts – Paul Young, Go West, The Cutting Crew, Wang Chung and Taylor Dayne – will be joined by Australia’s own John Paul Young and the Allstars, Pseudo Echo and The Chantoozies for the unforgettable 80s Fest at Hope Estate, from 1.30-7pm. ticketmaster.com.au

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EXPLORE CALENDAR

THE NUTCRACKER SUN 26 NOV The Russian National Ballet Theatre returns to Cessnock with the exhilarating and magical journey of The Nutcracker, a two-act ballet scored by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and first performed in 1892. It is one of the world's favourite ballets and a magical Christmas event for all the family. cessnockperforming artscentre.com.au

A DAY ON THE GREEN – STEVIE NICKS WITH THE PRETENDERS SAT 11 Stevie Nicks and Chrissie Hynde’s Pretenders will perform full individual sets at Bimbadgen winery, belting out hit after hit. The line-up will also feature Melbournebased Ali Barter. adayonthegreen.com.au

LIVE REUNION TOUR SAT 18 See the original lineup of Live reunite in a spectacular concert under the stars at a not-to-be-missed outdoor event at Roche Estate. liveaustraliantour.com.au

SUMMERSALT SAT 25 Head to Hope Estate to enjoy the afternoon sun and listen to the strums of Xavier Rudd and the big brass sounds of The Cat Empire.

SYDNEY YOUTH ORCHESTRA PHILHARMONIC IN THE CHAPEL SUN 3 This 60-piece orchestra of talented young musicians

from Sydney, conducted by Brian Buggy OAM, returns for a lunchtime concert in the beautiful Sacred Spaces chapel at the Sisters of Mercy Convent in Singleton. winecountry.com.au

summersaltmusic.com.au

DECEMBER YUSUF/CAT STEVENS SAT 2 British singer-songwriting legend Yusuf/Cat Stevens will commemorate the 50th anniversary of his first major hit by performing in the heart of the Hunter Valley at Roche Estate. ticketmaster.com.au

CHRISTMAS ON JOHN STREET FRI 24 Celebrate Christmas with the community in the Singleton town centre with a kids' dress up competition, Christmas carols, Christmas stalls, free kids' entertainment and rides, late-night shopping, Santa’s arrival and fireworks.

THE JACK MON 18–WED 20 Watch professional golfers and 50 celebrities get into the swing of things at The Jack pro-am Celebrity Classic golf tournament. The action takes place at Hunter Valley Golf and Country Club at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley. celebrityclassic.jacknewtongroup.com

winecountry.com.au WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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EXPLORE CALENDAR KC & THE SUNSHINE BAND

WOLLOMBI CLASSIC FILM FESTIVAL

SAT DEC 16 Head to Bimbadgen for A Day on the Green featuring KC & the Sunshine Band, Village People, Sister Sledge and Marcia Hines.

FRI 23–SUN 25 Enjoy classic films in the beautiful surrounds of the Grays Inn and St Michael’s Church. wollombi.com.au

adayonthegreen.com.au

NEW YEAR’S EVE SUN DEC 31 Celebrate the start of 2018 with entertainment, a family fireworks display and the Lights Spectacular. Tickets available at hvg.com.au

FEBRUARY

SUNDAY SESSIONS AT PEPPER TREE WINES

MARCH

REGULAR EVENTS

MAITLAND TASTE

HIGH TEA @ KIRKTON PARK

HIGH TEA @ GEMELLI ESTATE

SAT 10–SUN 11 A two-day festival in Maitland’s Heritage Mall celebrating the Hunter Valley’s best wine, coffee, chocolate and local cuisine.

Enjoy a traditional high tea in the sunlit Conservatory overlooking the rose garden, from noon to 4pm. $45pp includes sweet and savoury delights and a glass of sparkling wine. Bookings on 02 4998 7680. kirktonpark huntervalley.com.au

Enjoy a Sunday high tea in the garden or gallery with sweet and savoury treats accompanied by a glass of estate wine on October 29, November 12 and December 3, from 1pm to 5pm. $35 per person.

Bookings on 02 4998 7910. gemelliestate.com.au

maitlandtaste.com.au

CROSSROADS BLUES IN THE VINES

CROSSROADS COUNTRY IN THE VINES

SAT 10 Roche Estate will host seven-time Grammy Award winner Buddy Guy, Ian Moss, Phil Emmanuel, Diesel, Russell Morris and more.

SAT 24 See country music legends Billy Ray Cyrus, Lee Kernaghan, Kasey Chambers, John Williamson and many more at Roche Estate.

crossroadsinthevines.com

crossroadsinthevines.com

DAILY

PIGS & CHICKEN FEEDING @ KIRKTON PARK DAILY

Join the hotel’s team at the Stables for a meet and greet with our pigs and piglets, and help collect the eggs from our hens. Feel like a farmer and watch the pigs and piglets pig out on their daily meal.

Daily at noon. kirktonpark huntervalley.com.au

MUSIC BY THE VINES WEEKLY

Head to Restaurant Botanica in Pokolbin on Sundays for smooth sounds and delicious snacks.

Music by the Vines features a three-hour music session played in the restaurant, where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch or just opt for a glass of wine and a snack beside the vines. Bookings on 02 6574 7229.

PARKRUN SINGLETON WEEKLY

Parkrun is a free, weekly 5km run or walk – it's you against the clock, and everyone is welcome to attend. Register online, print off your unique barcode and bring it along each week to have your time recorded. parkrun.com.au/ singleton

KURRI KURRI NOSTALGIA FESTIVAL MARCH FRI 23–SUN 25 A fantastic line-up of rock ’n’ roll bands, rockabilly dances, classic cars, hot rods, fashion and market stalls. kurrikurrinostalgiafestival.com.au

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SUNDAY SESSIONS AT PEPPER TREE WINES MONTHLY

Head to the Pepper Tree grounds from 11am-2pm on the last Sunday of every month (except for December) for live music, wine, cheese and antipasto platters. peppertreewines.com.au

MONTHLY

ART AFTER HOURS MONTHLY

On the last Thursday of each month, Cessnock Regional Art Gallery throws open its doors with Art After Hours from 5pm-8pm, offering evening access to its latest exhibitions, along with music and local wines. For more info call 02 4991 6619. crag.net.au.

BROKE VILLAGE MARKET MONTHLY

Small community market held on the first Sunday morning of each month in the park opposite Broke Village Store. brokefordwich. com.au

HANDMADE IN THE HUNTER MARKETS MONTHLY

Showcasing handmade original goods and home-grown produce at Kevin Sobels Wines at least twice a month (usually the second and fourth Saturday of each month, and Saturday and Sunday on long weekends). For upcoming dates: handmadehuntermarkets. com.au

WOLLOMBI VILLAGE MARKET MONTHLY

A rain-or-shine market held on the second and fifth Sunday of each month, showcasing everything from cheese and condiments to fresh bread and fashion. wollombimarket.com.au

WANT MORE?

FOR MORE EVENT INFO GO TO WINECOUNTRY. COM.AU

Home Grown Future The dream began in the late 70s, when Ian and Merralea set out to create their own wine company,

their own way in the Hunter Valley.

After discovering the perfect

location on Gillards Rd, with its unique, rich red soils, the first vines were planted. Unburdened by the prospect of replanting a whole vineyard, the Scarborough clan set about creating their vision for the future.

This famed vineyard has grown to create some of the Hunter’s most ubiquitous Chardonnay. It was also an idyllic setting for the Scarborough children, Jerome and Sally, who by subtle osmosis were being drip-fed the roles of future winemakers and marketers respectively.

Today you can taste Scarborough wines in two unique locations in the gorgeous Hunter Valley.

When you drink Scarborough wine, you get more than a great wine, you become part of the family.

Our Home. Your Wine.

Scarborough Wine Co. 179 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin

Scarborough on Hermitage 972 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

www.scarboroughwine.com.au 1300 888 545 or cellar@scarboroughwine.com.au

O F F I C I A L

G U I D E

Your guide to the region’s essential sights and services.

• Cellar Doors • Restaurants & Cafes • Gourmet • • Tours • Experiences • Accommodation • • Weddings • Services •

+ pull-out touring map WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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Come taste the Hunter Valley range at Tyrrell’s Wines

Discover.

A world of wine

10 great reasons to visit

So close to Sydney yet truly a world away, the Hunter Valley is the birthplace of Australian wine. Wine Country – as the Hunter Valley is known – is a dynamic wine region with more than 150 premium wine producers, 60 tempting restaurants and 180 inviting places to stay. It has all the ingredients for a perfect getaway, from gourmet regional produce, boutique breweries, indulgent spas and action-packed adventures, to acclaimed gardens, galleries and heritage towns.

Pokolbin and Rothbury represent the traditional heart of the Hunter Valley, but there are plenty of other towns to explore and secrets to discover. The rural community of Wollombi is famed for its colonial architecture, convict-built buildings and lush bushland, while Lovedale, Mount View and Broke exude an air of tranquillity with boutique wineries, family-owned restaurants and cafes, and hospitable B&Bs. Wind your way between old delights and new surprises as you relax and unwind in this remarkable region.

� LIFE’S TOO SHORT TO DRINK BAD WINE

courses, which take advantage of the views.

The Hunter Valley is famous for its Semillon and Shiraz, but you’ll also find Chardonnay, Verdelho, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and specialty varieties (organic, biodynamic, sparkling, fortifieds and dessert wines).

� FLOWER POWER

Did you know?

There are 2664 hectares of wine grapes planted in the Hunter Valley (1153 red, 1511 white).

Source: ABS Vineyards Survey

Drive time Discover the Hunter Valley way of life – it’s just a two-hour drive north of Sydney. With the new Hunter Expressway you can now travel a more convenient route to the vineyards, and it will cut travel times between Newcastle and the Hunter Valley by up to 25 minutes.

� CREATIVE CUISINE Lunch at a casual alfresco cafe overlooking the vines or enjoy dinner at a fine-dining restaurant with a crackling fire.

� GOURMET PRODUCE Sample everything from olives, olive oils, tapenades, jams, chocolate, cheese and coffee to beer and spirits, all locally grown and made.

� TOURS OF ALL TYPES Take a tour in a horse-drawn carriage, a Cadillac convertible or a modern limousine or on the back of a bike (more tour options on page 109).

� CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF Tee off among the vines at one of three international-class

Hunter Valley Gardens has over 25 landscaped hectares of themed display gardens to see, which change from season to season.

� FLIGHTS OF FANCY

Greet the morning with a sunrise hot air balloon flight, then see the sights in your own private helicopter (see pages 109 and 115 for more aerial activities).

� RESCUE REMEDY

The Hunter Valley boasts several destination spas, so you can sign up for an hour, a day or a week of indulgent treatments.

� ARTISAN LANDSCAPES

Explore galleries showcasing a range of local artists’ work, from paint and sculpture to glasswork and woodwork.

�� EVENTS TO REMEMBER

Watch your favourite performer and enjoy great food and wine at one of the Valley’s signature events, concerts and festivals (see pages 73–76 for What’s On).

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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: VINEYARDS IN BROKE AT THE FOOTHILLS OF THE BROKENBACK RANGE; SHIRAZ IS THE REGION'S FLAGSHIP RED; EXPLORING THE ABORIGINAL SITES OF WOLLLOMBI; MCDONALDS ROAD, POKOLBIN.

Hunter Valley subregions.

While it is the Hunter Valley as a whole that is recognised and remembered as a world-class food and wine destination, the region is made up of a number of smaller subregions. Each has its own secrets to reveal and subtle nuances in terms of wine characteristics. They can be discovered on their own or as part of the Hunter Valley food and wine trail.

BROKE FORDWICH The Broke Fordwich region, a 20-minute drive from Pokolbin, is nestled at the foothills of the Brokenback Range in the shadow of the majestic Yellow Rock escarpment. It has a rustic charm and is pin-drop quiet, making it the perfect destination for a relaxing rural retreat. Peppered with boutique and biodynamic vineyards, olive groves, cosy accommodation options and restaurants, it has two big-ticket events: A Little Bit of Italy held each April and the Broke Village Fair & Vintage Car Display in September.

LOVEDALE When you exit the Hunter Expressway at Lovedale Road

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and turn left you’ve arrived in Lovedale, a relaxed neighbourhood east of Pokolbin.

The winding country roads are lined with cellar doors, eateries and an eclectic collection of places to stay – pick up a copy of the Tour De Lovedale map, painted by local artist Megan Barrass, and follow the self-drive route. It’s also home to mobs of kangaroos and wallabies, and the Lovedale Long Lunch, which takes place on the third weekend in May each year.

MOUNT VIEW As far as idyllic rural backdrops go, you can’t ask for much better than Mount View. Weaving its way past terraced vineyards, tasting

rooms and charming B&Bs, Mount View Road takes you up to the Bimbadeen and Mount Bright Lookouts, with breathtaking views in every direction. It’s off the beaten track, but the mountaintop outlook, peaceful setting and memorable food and wine experiences are worth seeking out.

POKOLBIN Pokolbin isn’t a town or village, but it’s hailed as the hub of the Hunter Valley because it has the highest concentration of wineries, restaurants, accommodation and activities in the region. The first vineyards were planted in Pokolbin in the mid-1800s, and it continues to play a pivotal role in winemaking today with winemakers producing the region’s award-winning flagship wines – Shiraz and Semillon – as well as new varieties that receive widespread acclaim. While Pokolbin revolves around Broke and McDonalds Roads, it also includes established trails such as Palmers ‘Wine Lovers’ Lane and the Around Hermitage Trail.

UPPER HUNTER The Upper Hunter is the largest horse-breeding region in Australia and has an extensive viticultural industry based around Denman, Muswellbrook and Jerrys Plains. Stretching from Singleton in the south to Murrurundi in the north, it has a bevy of paddock-to-plate produce to sample, including olives, cheese and boutique wines, as well as outdoor and water-based activities at Lake St Clair and Lake Glenbawn.

WOLLOMBI VALLEY Drive 30 minutes south-west of Pokolbin to the quaint village of Wollombi and you’ll be transported back to a bygone era. Established in the mid-1800s, the pretty hamlet is famed for its colonial architecture and oldworld general store. The gateway to the Wollombi Valley, it offers a heady mix of attractions, from ancient Aboriginal sites, national parks and the Great North Road convict trail to farmgate produce and boutique wines.

get hooked

Open 10am to 4.30pm daily for sales and tastings. Corner Ekerts and Broke Roads, Pokolbin NSW 2320 | www.davidhookwines.com.au | T: 0249 987121

david hook wines

HVM_halfpage_FINAL.indd 1

9/02/2017 10:27 am

• Brilliant selection of award-winning estate wines • Delicious olive products processed on site at the olive mill • Emerson’s Restaurant inspirational cuisine • Fabulous accommodation with vineyard views • Indulge yourself at Hunter Valley Reflections Day Spa

...

a destination in itself

492 LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE 2325 | 02 4930 7473 | www.adinavineyard.com.au

Cellar doors.

02 6579 1175

1238 Milbrodale Rd, Broke

02 6579 1372

Mount Broke Wines

130 Adams Peak Rd, Broke

02 6579 1314

KIDS’ PLAYGROUND

350 Wollombi Rd, Broke

Margan Winery & Restaurant

FUNCTIONS

Greenway Wines

FREE WIFI

02 6579 1322

CONFERENCE FACILITIES

712 Wollombi Rd, Broke

BBQ

0488 127 321

Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard

ART GALLERY

@ Tinonee Vineyard Estate, 1273 Milbrodale Rd, Broke

ACCOMMODATION

1813

LOCAL PRODUCE

PHONE

RESTAURANT/CAFE

ADDRESS

GROUP WINE TASTINGS

NAME

TOURS

SAMPLE THE REGION'S AWARD-WINNING WINES.

BROKE FORDWICH

Stomp! Wines Whispering Brook

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0409 774 280

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Rodd St, Broke

02 6579 1386

Adina Vineyard & Olive Grove

492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 7473

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Allandale Winery

132 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4990 4526

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Capercaillie Wine

4 Londons Rd, Lovedale

02 4990 2904

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Dark Horse Vineyard

386 Wilderness Rd , Lovedale

0450 206 398

Gartelmann Wines

701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 7113

Tatler Wines

477 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 9139

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Ernest Hill Wines

307 Wine Country Dr, Nulkaba

02 4991 4418

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LOVEDALE & NULKABA

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POKOLBIN Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard

750 DeBeyers Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 1866

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Bimbadgen

790 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 4600

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Blueberry Hill Vineyard

999 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7295

Brokenwood Wines

401–427 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7559

Calais Estate

151 Palmers Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7668

Chateau Francois

Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7548

Cockfighter’s Ghost Wines

Cnr McDonalds & DeBeyers Rds, Pokolbin

02 4993 3600

Constable Estate

205 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7887

David Hook Wines

Cnr Ekerts & Broke Rds, Pokolbin

02 4998 7121

De Bortoli Wines

532 Wine Country Dr, Pokolbin

02 4993 8800

Degen Wines

365 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin

De Iuliis Wines

1616 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

Drayton’s Family Wines

555 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin

Eagles Rest Wines

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0437 661 993

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02 4993 8000

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02 4998 7513

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0455 924 189

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687 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

0410 587 201

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First Creek Wines

600 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 2992

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Gemelli Estate

168 Palmers Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7910

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Glandore Estate Wines

1595 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7140

Gundog Hunter Cellar & Gourmet Pantry

101 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6873

Hanging Tree Wines

294 O'Connors Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6608

Hart & Hunter

463 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7645

Hermitage Road Cellars & Winery

Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7777

Hungerford Hill Wines

2450 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7666

Kelman Vineyard

2 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin

02 4991 5456

Keith Tulloch Wine

Cnr Hermitage & Deasys Rds, Pokolbin

02 4998 7500

Kevin Sobels Wines

5 Halls Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7766

Lake’s Folly

2416 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7507

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Eclectic Wines

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WINE VARIETIES The Hunter Valley produces less than two per cent of Australia’s wine, yet lays claim to some of the industry’s oldest and most well-known winemaking families, and consistently produces an impressive, awardwinning array of varieties and styles.

Semillon The Hunter Valley sets the world benchmark for Semillon, and it is, both nationally and internationally, the most highly awarded variety produced in the region. In its youth, it is zesty, bright with lemon/ lime aromas and flavours, and has a delicate acidity to finish – perfect for fresh seafood. Those who are prepared to wait are rewarded with complexity – biscuit, malt, honey and toasty richness.

Chardonnay Typically medium- to full-bodied in style, Hunter Valley Chardonnay is characterised by peach, fig and tropical fruit-like flavours with crisp and fresh unwooded styles, and full-bodied, rich and fulfilling wooded styles.

Verdelho A style unique to the Hunter Valley, Verdelho, customarily made without oak, is a fruit-driven medium-bodied wine.

Shiraz Shiraz is undoubtedly the most important red variety in the Hunter Valley. Regionally distinctive, it is medium- to fullbodied, characterised when young by blackberry, mulberry and plum characters, as well as spice, chocolate and liquorice with the characteristic regional earthy, leathery tones and complexity developing with age.

Cabernet Sauvignon Hunter Valley Cabernet is something of an enigma, producing wines with firm tannins, a fragrant bouquet and smoky aromas developing into cigar-box complexity with age.

Merlot Merlot from the Hunter Valley shows suppleness, fine tannins and leafy complexity.

A number of specialty wines, including organic, sparkling, fortified and dessert wines, are also produced. No matter what your preference, you’ll always find a style to share and enjoy in the Hunter Valley.

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

85

Cellar doors.

FREE WIFI

FUNCTIONS

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KIDS’ PLAYGROUND

CONFERENCE FACILITIES

BBQ

ART GALLERY

ACCOMMODATION

LOCAL PRODUCE

PHONE

RESTAURANT/CAFE

ADDRESS

GROUP WINE TASTINGS

NAME

TOURS

SAMPLE THE REGION'S AWARD-WINNING WINES.

POKOLBIN CONTINUED Lambloch Estate

2342 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6722

McGuigan Wines

447 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7402

McLeish Estate

462 DeBeyers Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7754

Mistletoe Winery

771 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

1800 055 080

Misty Glen Wines & Cottage

293 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7781

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Mount Pleasant Cellar Door

401 Marrowbone Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7505

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Oakvale Wines

1596 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7088

Pepper Tree Wines

86 Halls Rd, Pokolbin

02 4909 7100

Peter Drayton Wines

@ IronBark Hill Vineyard, 694 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7085

Peterson House

Cnr Broke Rd & Wine Country Dr, Pokolbin

02 4998 7881

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RidgeView Wines

273 Sweetwater Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7332

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Rothvale Winery

223 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7290

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Saddler’s Creek Wines

15 Marrowbone Rd, Pokolbin

02 4991 1770

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Scarborough on Hermitage

972 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6538

Scarborough Wine Co.

179 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7563

Small Winemakers Centre

426 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7668

Tamburlaine Organic Wines

358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 4200

Tempus Two Cellar Door

Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rds, Pokolbin

02 4993 3999

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Thomas Wines

@ Estate Tuscany, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7134

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Tinklers

53 Pokolbin Mountains Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7435

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Tintilla Estate Wines & Olives

725 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7093

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Tulloch Wines

638 DeBeyers Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7580

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Tyrrell’s Wines

1838 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4993 7000

Usher Tinkler Wines

97 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7069

Vinden Estate Wines

138 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin

Wombat Crossing Vineyard Wynwood Estate

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02 4998 7410

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530 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7357

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310 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7885

Hunter’s Dream

149 Deasys Rd, Rothbury

02 4998 6509

Macquariedale Organic Wines

170 Sweetwater Rd, Rothbury

02 6574 7012

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Briar Ridge Vineyard

593 Mount View Rd, Mount View

02 4990 3670

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Mount View Estate

502 Mount View Rd, Mount View

02 4990 3307

Petersons Wines

552 Mount View Rd, Mount View

02 4990 1704

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Savannah Estate

402 Mount View Rd, Mount View

02 4990 6326

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Tallavera Grove Vineyard

749 Mount View Rd, Mount View

02 4990 7535

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2 Yarrawa Rd, Denman

02 6547 2556

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Stonehurst Wines

1840 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi

02 4998 1576

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Wollombi Wines

Wollombi Rd, Wollombi

02 4998 3427

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UPPER HUNTER Two Rivers Wines

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WOLLOMBI

TOUR

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RESTAURANT

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

ACCOMMODATION

BIODYNAMIC/ORGANIC

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MEET OUR 2017 HUNTER VALLEY LEGENDS Congratulations to the 2017 Hunter Valley Legends Awards winners, who were announced at a gala event at Cypress Lakes Resort earlier this year.

Hosted by Australian food and wine luminary Lyndey Milan OAM, this year’s event saw hundreds of locals gather to honour the outstanding achievements of the legends – past, present and future – who make Australia’s oldest wine region the very special place it is today.

This year the revered ‘Living Legend’ status was bestowed on Ian Tinkler, who has been growing grapes and producing premium wines on his Pokolbin family properties for more than 35 years. He is in prestigious company, with past winners including Ian Scarborough, Bruce McGuigan, Bruce Tyrrell and Jay Tulloch.

Other award winners on the night were: Thomas Wines (pictured above) won the Cellar Door of the Year award, sponsored by CBA Local Business Banking and recognising all-round excellence at the cellar door.

Mark Richardson from Tyrrell’s Wines took home the Winemaker of the Year Award, which is sponsored by First Creek Winemaking Services.

Andrew Pengilly from Tyrrell’s Wines took home the Viticulturist of the Year Award, sponsored by Laffort Australia.

Rauri Tonkin from First Creek Wines was awarded the Rising Star of the Year award, sponsored by RSN Australia.

The Hunter Valley Heritage Award, sponsored by Brian and Fay McGuigan, honours the Hunter Valley’s history as Australia’s oldest commercial wine region. This year the award was given to Rothbury Cemetery (at Emma’s Cottage).

And the Hunter Valley Award for Excellence, acknowledging a person who has made an outstanding contribution to the Hunter Valley wine and tourism industries, was won by Bruce Tyrrell.

For full details of the results, visit winecountry.com.au

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

87

CELLAR DOORS BROKE FORDWICH • LOVEDALE

1813 @ TINONEE VINEYARD ESTATE, 1273 MILBRODALE RD, BROKE

T 0488 127 321 E info@1813.com.au 1813.com.au

KRINKLEWOOD BIODYNAMIC VINEYARD ��� WOLLOMBI RD, BROKE

T 02 6579 1322 E info@krinklewood.com krinklewood.com

GREENWAY WINES 350 WOLLOMBI RD, BROKE

T 02 6579 1175 E info@greenwaywines.com.au greenwaywines.com.au

Set among the vines on the picturesque Tinonee Vineyard Estate, 1813 is a boutique cellar door offering a variety of single vineyard wines. Experience the distinctive flavours of the wines while enjoying the stunning scenery of the Brokenback Range.

Fri 12–5pm, Sat 10.30am–5pm, Sun 10.30am–4pm

Krinklewood is a certified biodynamic/organic, family-owned vineyard, managed in a holistic and sustainable way. The French-inspired cellar door is set in Provençal gardens with Wollombi Brook and the Brokenback Range spectacular backdrops. Cheese platters available. Fri–Sun 10am– 5pm

Greenway is a family owned vineyard that offers an intimate wine-tasting experience. A breathtaking location on the banks of Wollombi Brook, surrounded by the Brokenback Range, its old world red barn cellar door showcases single-estate, limited release, award-winning wines. Ploughman’s platters available. Sat–Sun 10am–5pm

MARGAN WINERY � RESTAURANT

MOUNT BROKE WINES

STOMP! WINES

���� MILBRODALE RD, BROKE

130 ADAMS PEAK RD, BROKE

CHANGES AFOOT - ADDRESS DETAILS TO BE CHECKED ON WEBSITE

Leading winemaker Andrew Margan handcrafts premium estate-grown, estate-made wines from the Margan old vine vineyards. Enjoy expansive views of the vineyards and spectacular Brokenback Range from the cellar door. Awarded Best Winery NSW Tourism Hall of Fame and a red 5-star James Halliday rating 2009–2018. Daily 10am–5pm

Established in 1997, Mount Broke Wines has a low yielding, single origin vineyard focused on producing small batches of premium wines. Take in the beautiful outlook of the Brokenback Range while enjoying lunch at Mount Broke Restaurant.

Sat–Sun 10am–5pm

WHISPERING BROOK

ADINA VINEYARD � OLIVE GROVE

T 02 6579 1372 E cellardoor@margan.com.au margan.com.au

RODD ST, BROKE

T 02 6579 1386 E info@whispering-brook.com whispering-brook.com “Situated in the most idyllic site for wine production, Whispering Brook offers an impressive selection of red and white wines,” wrote travelanthropist.com See for yourself and experience a tutored tour through the winery, vineyards and olive groves followed by a wine tasting. Fri 1.30–4.30pm, Sat 10.30am–5pm, Sun 10.30am –4.30pm

88

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

T 02 6579 1314 E philmcnamara@outlook.com.au mountbrokewines.com.au

��� LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

T 02 4930 7473 E info@adinavineyard.com.au adinavineyard.com.au Adina Vineyard is a destination with something for everyone – great wines, estate-produced providore products, extra virgin olive oils, 4.5-star accommodation, cafe/restaurant and day spa. The friendly staff is ready to welcome you and ensure you enjoy the Adina experience. Daily 10am–5pm

M 0409 774 280 E meredith@stompwine.com.au stompwine.com.au Once tracked down, Stomp! Wines promises a friendly, relaxed tasting of its two brands – Stomp! and Pssst ’n’ Broke. They’ll share their passion for crafting renowned Hunter Valley classics as well as some rarer and quirkier wines, such as Sparkling Verdelho and Fiano. Check website for opening hours

ALLANDALE WINERY ��� LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

T 02 4990 4526 E wines@allandalewinery.com.au allandalewinery.com.au Allandale boasts a distinguished portfolio of classic Hunter Valley wines, as well as more contemporary varieties such as Pinot Gris and Tempranillo. Tastings are held in the winery where friendly cellar door staff will help you find wines that you’ll enjoy while taking in the breathtaking Valley views.

Mon–Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 10am–5pm

CELLAR DOORS LOVEDALE • NULKABA • POKOLBIN

CAPERCAILLIE WINE

DARK HORSE VINEYARD

GARTELMANN WINES

� LONDONS RD, LOVEDALE

386 WILDERNESS RD, LOVEDALE

��� LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

Capercaillie winery and cellar door is situated on some of the best vineyards in the Lovedale region.

Producing a range of Hunter Valley wines, including the flagship ‘The Ghillie’ Shiraz and ‘The Creel’ Semillon, as well as selected multi-regional blends.

Daily 10am–4.30pm

The owners of Dark Horse Vineyard have combined their love of wine and horses to bring you the Hunter Valley’s first equestrian-inspired cellar door. The wines are small batch, single vineyard, hand-picked and exclusively Hunter Valley. Sat–Sun 10am–5pm

Experience the Gartelmann difference. Come in and be absorbed by the tranquil surrounds of this eco-friendly designed cellar door while you enjoy the quality boutique difference at Gartelmann Wines.

The wines represent the best of the Hunter and beyond. Family owned and operated with passion.

Mon–Sat 9am– 5pm, Sun 10am–4pm

TATLER WINES

ERNEST HILL WINES

AUDREY WILKINSON VINEYARD

477 LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

��� WINE COUNTRY DR, NULKABA

��� DEBEYERS RD, POKOLBIN

Located in the heart of Lovedale, Tatler Wines is a well-known favourite for locals, wine lovers and visitors. Enjoy a relaxed tasting of Tatler’s wonderful wines at the unique oval bar overlooking the Brokenback Range. Daily 10am–5pm

Known for its superb wines and excellent service, this family-owned and operated cellar door is the home of the multi-award-winning Alexander Chardonnay and William Henry Shiraz. It also produces delicious lighter-style dessert wines and a liqueur Muscat.

All wines are exclusive to the cellar door.

Daily 10am–5pm

Planted in 1866, Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard was the first vineyard established in the Parish of Pokolbin, more than 140 years ago. With breathtaking views of the Hunter Valley, this James Halliday red 5-star winery is an absolute must-visit for visitors to the region.

Daily 10am–5pm (closed Xmas & Boxing Day)

BIMBADGEN

BLUEBERRY HILL VINEYARD

BROKENWOOD WINES

��� MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

��� MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

���–��� MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

Located high on a hill in the heart of Hunter Valley, Bimbadgen is a striking winery and vineyard encompassing an expansive cellar door, award-winning Esca Bimbadgen Restaurant, cafe, outdoor amphitheatre, modern tasting rooms and accommodation in the one stunning location. 5 star James Halliday winery.

Sun–Thu 10am–5pm, Fri–Sat 10am–7pm

You’ll find your thrill at Blueberry Hill, a wellestablished vineyard growing six varieties – Merlot, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. The boutique cellar door boasts panoramic views across vineyards to the Brokenback Range and there’s lovely B&B accommodation too.

Daily 10am–5pm

Brokenwood’s cellar door boasts an impressive array of premium wines. From the flagship and highly acclaimed Graveyard Vineyard Shiraz to the popular Cricket Pitch range, Brokenwood is a red 5-star James Halliday winery and a must-visit while you’re in the Hunter Valley.

Mon–Sat 9.30am–5pm, Sun 10am–5pm

T 02 4990 2904 E sales@capercailliewines.com.au capercailliewines.com.au

T 02 4930 9139 E sales@tatlerwines.com tatlerwines.com.au

T 02 4998 4600 E cellardoor@bimbadgen.com.au bimbadgen.com.au

T 0450 206 398 E darkhorsevineyard@hotmail.com darkhorsevineyard.com.au

T 02 4991 4418 E wines@ernesthillwines.com.au ernesthillwines.com.au

T 02 4998 7295 E blueberryhill@pacific.net.au blueberryhill.com.au

T 02 4930 7113 E sales@gartelmann.com.au gartelmann.com.au

T 02 4998 1866 E cellardoor@audreywilkinson.com.au audreywilkinson.com.au

T 02 4998 7559 E sales@brokenwood.com.au brokenwood.com.au

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CELLAR DOORS POKOLBIN

CALAIS ESTATE

CHATEAU FRANCOIS

COCKFIGHTER’S GHOST WINES

151 PALMERS LN, POKOLBIN

BROKE ROAD, POKOLBIN

CNR MCDONALDS � DEBEYERS RDS, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7654 E cellardoor@calaiswines.com.au calaiswines.com.au Calais Estate is home to one of the largest boutique wine lists in the Valley, as well as the Come What May gift shop and the renowned Verandah Restaurant.

Wine taste, dine, shop or relax with a gourmet picnic pack in the beautiful Estate grounds.

Mon–Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 10am–5pm

T 02 4998 7548 Established in 1969 by former NSW Director of Fisheries Dr Don Francois, who is dedicated to producing classic Hunter Valley varieties Semillon and Shiraz at modest prices. Rated a red 5-star winery in the James Halliday Australian Wine Companion 2015.

Sat–Sun 9am–5pm or by appointment

CONSTABLE ESTATE

DAVID HOOK WINES

DE BORTOLI WINES

��� GILLARDS RD, POKOLBIN

CNR EKERTS � BROKE RDS, POKOLBIN

��� WINE COUNTRY DR, POKOLBIN

Try the mouth-watering Sparkling Pink Moscato and Botrytis Semillon, and then meet Matilda the cow and solve the mystery tune painted on her shoulder at this delightful property. There are also beautifully landscaped gardens, bronze and marble sculptures, and a new lookout to explore.

Daily 10am–4pm

One of the district’s most exclusive small cellars, David Hook Wines specialises in single-vineyard wines made from the region’s traditional varieties including Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz, and is also renowned for the Italian varieties Barbera and Pinot Grigio. A 5-star James Halliday winery.

Daily 10am–5pm

Proudly family owned since 1928. This cellar door, at the gateway to Wine Country, offers an extensive portfolio of wines, including the iconic Noble One dessert wine, local Semillon and Shiraz, delicious Moscato as well as premium fortified wines and sparkling wines.

Daily 10am–5pm

DEGEN WINES

DE IULIIS WINES

DRAYTON'S FAMILY WINES

365 DEASYS RD, POKOLBIN

���� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

��� OAKEY CREEK RD, POKOLBIN

Taste 100% Hunter Valley single vineyard Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz wines and experience true Hunter hospitality at this beautiful cellar door. Savour delicious, premium wines made from one of the smallest commercial vineyards and take in the beautiful views from the Degen’s tasting table.

Fri 1–5pm, Sat–Sun 10am–4pm

One of the hardest names to say in the Australian wine industry, but one of the best! This acclaimed producer focuses on regionality and a modern winemaking approach to ensure unique yet highly identifiable wines with a sense of time and place.

A James Halliday red 5-star winery.

Daily 10am–5pm

Drayton’s Family Wines is proud to be one of the oldest, 100 per cent family-owned producers of quality wines. The range of wines is indicative of the Hunter’s best and a visit to the cellar door will provide you with an authentic Hunter Valley Wine Country experience.

Mon–Fri 8am–5pm, Sat–Sun 10am–5pm

T 02 4998 7887 E hunter@constablevineyards.com.au constablevineyards.com.au

T 0437 661 993 E mail@degenwines.com.au degenwines.com.au

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T 02 4998 7121 E sales@davidhookwines.com.au davidhookwines.com.au

T 02 4993 8000 E sales@dewine.com.au dewine.com.au

T 02 4993 3600 E info@cockfightersghost.com.au cockfightersghost.com.au Located on the historic Post Office Block Vineyard dating from the 1890s. The fabulous cellar door team will introduce you to a great selection of cellar door exclusive and museum release wines from the popular Cockfighter’s Ghost and premium Poole’s Rock ranges.

Daily 10am–5pm (closed Xmas & Boxing Day)

T 02 4993 8800 E hunter_info@debortoli.com.au debortoli.com.au

T 02 4998 7513 E drink@draytons.com.au draytonswines.com.au

CELLAR DOORS POKOLBIN

FIRST CREEK WINES

GEMELLI ESTATE

GLANDORE ESTATE WINES

��� MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

��� PALMERS LN, POKOLBIN

���� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

Awarded the Hunter Valley Winemaker of the Year in 2016 and 2011, First Creek Wines is a proud James Halliday red 5-star rated winery. The Silkman family invites you to join the First Creek team for daily sales and tastings of its award-winning wines.

Daily 10am- 5pm

Enjoy a wine tasting at this boutique family owned vineyard. Relax with a bottle of wine and a cheese platter or fresh wraps, while taking in the picturesque views. Indulge further by booking in for the monthly high tea or stay onsite in the cosy cottage.

Fri 10am–4pm, Sat–Sun 10am–5pm, Mon 10am–2pm

Glandore Estate’s aim has been to produce wines of great character, regionality and style from the traditional varieties known in the Hunter Valley to new and exciting alternative varieties such as Tempranillo and Savagnin. Visit the boutique cellar door and taste what everyone’s talking about.

Daily 10am–5pm

GUNDOG HUNTER CELLAR � GOURMET PANTRY

HANGING TREE WINES

HART & HUNTER

��� O'CONNORS RD, POKOLBIN

463 DEASYS RD, POKOLBIN

One of the most picturesque properties in the Hunter Valley with a rose garden, duck pond, olive grove, luxurious homestead and a cowshed-converted cellar door – all teeming with character. Book your next getaway or pop in to taste the award-winning wines.

Daily 10am–5pm

Winemaking couple Damien Stevens and Jodie Belleville are the hands behind Hart & Hunter. It’s a premium boutique brand doing things their own way, specialising in single vineyard wines that reflect provenance and a sense of place. A visit to this cellar door is a true Hunter Valley experience.

Thu–Sun 10am–4pm

T 02 4998 2992 E sales@firstcreekwines.com.au firstcreekwines.com.au

��� MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 6873 E info@gundogestate.com.au gundogestate.com.au Discover high-quality regionally distinct wines and a hand-picked selection of gourmet products, reflecting Gundog’s ‘quality over quantity’ philosophy at this 5-star James Halliday winery. Awarded Best Small Cellar Door – Lower Hunter by Gourmet Traveller WINE magazine in 2013. Daily 10am–5pm

HERMITAGE ROAD CELLARS � WINERY CNR HERMITAGE RD � MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7777 E wines@hunterresort.com.au hunterresort.com.au

Featuring local wines by Lisa McGuigan, Crisford, Hele, Hook, Margan, Stormy Ridge, and Majors Lane.

Also onsite is the Matilda Bay Brewhouse and the new Hunter Adventure Centre. Daily 10am–5pm (closed Xmas Day) Wine Theatre 11am & 2pm

T 02 4998 7910 E info@gemelliestate.com.au gemelliestate.com.au

T 02 4998 6608 E info@hangingtreewines.com.au hangingtreewines.com.au

T 02 4998 7140 E info@glandorewines.com glandorewines.com

T 02 4998 7645 E info@hartandhunter.com.au hartandhunter.com.au

HUNGERFORD HILL WINES ���� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7666 E wines@hungerfordhill.com.au hungerfordhill.com.au Rated a 5-star winery in the 2014 James Halliday Australian Wine Companion, Hungerford Hill offers a premium tasting experience in stylish surrounds.

Enjoy a traditional stand-up tasting, or book in for a seated Epic™ food and wine tasting experience with bites prepared by Muse Restaurant.

Sun–Thu 10am–5pm, Fri–Sat 10am–6pm

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CELLAR DOORS POKOLBIN

KELMAN VINEYARD

KEVIN SOBELS WINES

LAKE’S FOLLY

� OAKEY CREEK RD, POKOLBIN

� HALLS RD, POKOLBIN

2416 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

Nestled at the gateway to Mount View, Kelman is a community-owned vineyard producing both classic, premium wines and a range of sweet wines. Kelman loves to share its passion for their wines. Visit the cellar door and enjoy an informative and personal wine tasting with the friendly cellar door staff.

Daily 10am–4pm

The Sobels winery stands on the corner of Broke and Halls Roads in Pokolbin, and every wine for sale under the Sobels label is made, aged and bottled onsite. The sales room is staffed by friendly, knowledgeable people offering a range of dry and sweeter style Hunter Valley wines.

Daily 9am–5pm

A Hunter icon, and Australia’s first boutique winery, Lake’s Folly was established in 1963. Its two flagship wines, a Cabernet blend and a Chardonnay, are produced in limited quantities and grown, made, and bottled on the Estate. James Halliday red 5-star winery. Daily 10am–4pm (when wine available)

LAMBLOCH ESTATE

MCGUIGAN WINES

MCLEISH ESTATE

���� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

��� MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

��� DEBEYERS RD, POKOLBIN

The perfect place to relax. Producing a wide array of wines from the alternate Flipside styles to the Classics. Also home to Pokolbin Cider House. Allow the experienced staff to take you on a journey through the diverse range available.

Daily 10am–5pm

Winner of the 2009, 2011, 2012 and 2016 International Winemaker of the Year, and 2009, 2012 and 2013 International White Winemaker of the Year, McGuigan Wines is a must-visit destination. Enjoy awardwinning museum and cellar-door-only wines in the recently refurbished tasting rooms.

Daily 9.30am–5pm

Over 32 vintages this James Halliday 5-star winery has established itself as one of the region’s most awarded premium boutique wineries, including winning the Best Semillon Trophy at the 2016 London International Wine Challenge. It’s an essential stop for anyone who enjoys exceptional wines.

Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, Sat–Sun 10am–5pm

MISTLETOE WINERY

MISTY GLEN WINES � COTTAGE

��� HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

��� DEASYS RD, POKOLBIN

Mistletoe is a small family-owned and operated vineyard and winery established by the current owners in 1989. From vineyard to bottle, Mistletoe’s ‘quality without compromise’ approach to producing small quantities of premium wine has earned it a James Halliday 5-star rating from 2007 to 2014.

Daily 10am–6pm (closed Xmas Day)

Taste, play and stay at Misty Glen in the heart of the Hunter Valley! This boutique vineyard produces Semillon, Chardonnay, Chambourcin, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, which are created into traditional and unusual wine styles. Mention Hunter Valley Magazine and receive discounts on wine purchases. Fri, Sun & Mon 10am–4pm, Sat 10am–5pm

T 02 4991 5456 E admin@kelmanvineyard.com.au kelmanvineyard.com.au

T 02 4998 6722 E cellardoor@lambloch.com lambloch.com

T 02 4998 7766 E kevin@sobelswines.com.au sobelswines.com.au

T 02 4998 7402 E hunter@mcguiganwines.com.au mcguiganwines.com.au

T 1800 055 080 E office@mistletoewines.com.au mistletoewines.com.au

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T 02 4998 7507 E wine@lakesfolly.com.au lakesfolly.com.au

T 02 4998 7754 E info@mcleishhunterwines.com.au mcleishhunterwines.com.au

T 02 4998 7781 E wines@mistyglen.com.au mistyglen.com.au

CELLAR DOORS POKOLBIN

MOUNT PLEASANT CELLAR DOOR

OAKVALE WINES

PEPPER TREE WINES

��� MARROWBONE RD, POKOLBIN

���� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

�� HALLS RD, POKOLBIN

This family-owned winery has a real passion for viticultural practices and minimal intervention winemaking. The premium handcrafted wines are sold exclusively through the state-of-the-art cellar door and it is one of the Valley’s few gourmet cider and Bellini producers. Daily 10am–5pm, Anzac Day 12– 5pm (closed Xmas Day)

Pepper Tree was established in 1991 and hand-crafts wines of purity, elegance and distinction. It continues to receive national and international recognition for its wines, which you can taste at the picturesque cellar door and also relax with an award-winning coffee roasted onsite at Contango Espresso Roasters.

Daily 9am–5pm

PETER DRAYTON WINES

PETERSON HOUSE

RIDGEVIEW WINES

@ IRONBARK HILL VINEYARD, ��� HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN T 02 6574 7085

CNR BROKE RD � WINE COUNTRY DR, POKOLBIN

��� SWEETWATER RD, POKOLBIN

Five-star rated James Halliday boutique cellar door with an outstanding collection of medal-winning wines, including Shiraz, Cabernet, Merlot, Chardonnay, Verdelho and Semillon, as well as sparkling and fortified wines. Onsite accommodation and a relaxed coffee shop with vineyard vistas. Daily 10am–5pm

With the bubbles floating and bubbles flowing, Peterson House is the experts in sparkling wine. From the fun fruity whites to the full-bodied reds, enjoy and indulge in what Peterson House does best, sparkling wine. Remember, “Life’s flat without bubbles!”

Daily 9am–5pm

T 02 4998 7505 E mtpleasant@mcwilliamswines.com.au mountpleasantwines.com.au Mount Pleasant is one of the great wine estates of Australia with a 5-star James Halliday rating. Taste benchmark wines while enjoying the scenery of the surrounding vineyards and stunning backdrop of the Brokenback Range. Daily 10am–4pm

E cellardoor@peterdraytonwines.com.au peterdraytonwines.com.au

T 02 4998 7088 E info@oakvalewines.com.au oakvalewines.com.au

T 02 4998 7881 E bubbles@petersonhouse.com.au petersonhouse.com.au

T 02 4909 7100 E ptwinery@peppertreewines.com.au peppertreewines.com.au

T 02 6574 7332 E wines@ridgeview.com.au ridgeview.com.au Boutique family-owned winery showcasing award-winning wines in Riedel glasses. Renowned Generations and Impressions ranges, and an eclectic mix of lesser-known varietals. Private tasting room available for small groups (bookings essential). Onsite restaurant specialising in food-wine pairing and cottage accommodation. Wed–Sun 10am–5pm

SOME OF OUR VINES ARE OLDER THAN THE ONES IN FR ANCE. LUCK Y YOU.

A curious fact but true. Planted in 1867, our vines were untouched by the phylloxera epidemic of the late 1800s which wiped out all of France's vineyards.

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CELLAR DOORS POKOLBIN

ROTHVALE WINERY

SADDLER’S CREEK WINES

SCARBOROUGH ON HERMITAGE

��� DEASYS RD, POKOLBIN

�� MARROWBONE RD, POKOLBIN

��� HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

Enjoy some classic Hunter Valley varieties and learn about the wine production process and how to taste wine with father-and-son team Max and Luke Patton at this 75-acre working vineyard. You can also sleep among the vines in one of the five comfortable country cottages.

Daily 10am–4pm

Saddler’s Creek, a James Halliday 5-star rated winery, crafts regional premium white, red and dessert wines that are distinctively different. Be welcomed at the cellar door and enjoy award-winning wines from some of Australia’s premium growing regions. Saddler’s, the home of Bluegrass and Club Equus.

Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, Sat–Sun 10am–5pm

Scarborough on Hermitage is another home for the Scarborough Wine Co. This bright, modern space is one of the Hunter Valley’s most exciting venues, offering an exceptional tasting experience, amazing views and winery tours. For the Scarboroughs, it’s not just making wine, it’s a way of life.

Thu–Mon 10am–5pm

SCARBOROUGH WINE CO.

SMALL WINEMAKERS CENTRE

TAMBURLAINE ORGANIC WINES

��� GILLARDS RD, POKOLBIN

426 MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

358 MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

This family-owned business is one of the leading names in quality Hunter Valley wine, specialising in Chardonnay. You’ll be wooed by the distinctly regional wines and the sweeping views at the cosy cellar door, which offers a relaxed seated tasting.

Daily 9am–5pm

Located in the heart of Pokolbin, the Small Winemakers Centre offers the largest range of premium wines in the Hunter Valley. With five of the best winemakers under one roof – Little Wine Co, Silkman, Thomas, David Hook and Hart & Hunter – this is your must-do cellar door. Daily 10am–5pm

Through embracing ‘contemporary organics’, Tamburlaine has gained a reputation as an innovator without compromising wine quality. Tamburlaine’s enthusiasm to experiment with sustainable agriculture and winemaking practices, is the driving force behind its success in producing brilliant wine, with body and soul. Daily 9am–5pm (closed Xmas Day)

TEMPUS TWO CELLAR DOOR

THOMAS WINES

TINKLERS

CNR BROKE � MCDONALDS RDS, POKOLBIN

@ ESTATE TUSCANY, CNR HERMITAGE RD & MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

�� POKOLBIN MOUNTAINS RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7290 E wines@rothvale.com.au rothvale.com.au

T 02 4998 7563 E info@scarboroughwine.com.au scarboroughwine.com.au

T 02 4993 3999 E cellardoor@tempustwo.com.au tempustwo.com.au The striking Tempus Two cellar door stands out from the crowd and so does the wine. There’s a fashionable collection of award-winning wines for tasting, many hand-crafted exclusively for the cellar door, including the Copper Series Shiraz and Semillon. Groups and private tastings welcome (bookings essential).

Daily 10am–5pm

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T 02 4991 1770 E winery@saddlerscreek.com saddlerscreek.com; clubequus.com.au

T 02 4998 7668 E info@smallwinemakers.com.au smallwinemakers.com.au

T 02 4998 7134 E cellardoor@thomaswines.com.au thomaswines.com.au Specialising in single-vineyard Semillon and Shiraz, Thomas Wines has access to some of the Valley’s most distinguished vineyards, producing world-class, uniquely regional wine styles. A red 5-star James Halliday winery. Hunter Valley Cellar Door of the Year 2017. Daily 10am–5pm

T 02 4998 6538 E cellar@scarboroughwine.com.au scarboroughwine.com.au

T 02 4998 4200 E sales@tamburlaine.com.au tamburlaine.com.au

T 02 4998 7435 E enjoy@tinklers.com.au tinklers.com.au

Enjoy quality single-vineyard wines made from 100 per cent estate-grown grapes at this James Halliday 5-star winery in the foothills of the Pokolbin Mountains and share the history of the Tinkler family, who have lived in the Hunter Valley for more than 100 years.

Daily 10am–5pm

CELLAR DOORS POKOLBIN • ROTHBURY

TINTILLA ESTATE WINES � OLIVES

TULLOCH WINES

TYRRELL’S WINES

��� DEBEYERS RD, POKOLBIN

���� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

Tintilla finds that perfect blend of food, wine and family. Take a seat at the table in the cellar door, sip the wines and taste estate-grown olives, vinegars, verjuice and homemade relishes while looking out over the rolling vines. Cheese platters also available.

Daily 10.30am–6pm

Tulloch’s story began in 1895 when John Younie Tulloch accepted a neglected vineyard as payment of a debt and so began the proud family tradition that continues today with 24 wines for tasting, including the acclaimed Verdelho. A James Halliday red 5-star winery.

Daily 10am–5pm (closed Good Friday & Xmas Day)

Established in 1858, Tyrrell’s is one of Australia’s pre-eminent family owned wine companies and home to some of the world’s most iconic wines. A James Halliday red 5-star winery and Cellar Door & Winery of the Year, Tyrrell’s has been awarded more than 5650 trophies and medals. Daily winery tours at 10.30am.

Mon­­–Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 10am–4pm

USHER TINKLER WINES

VINDEN ESTATE WINES

WOMBAT CROSSING VINEYARD

97 MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

��� GILLARDS RD, POKOLBIN

530 HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

Usher Tinkler Wines blurs the lines between traditional and contemporary winemaking. Usher’s wines have been created for discussion – born for sociability. Wine is best when shared with friends and food. Explore this yourself and enjoy some salumi and cheese with your tasting.

Daily 10am–5pm

Vinden Estate Wines is a family-owned and operated boutique Hunter Valley winery and vineyard. The Vinden family handcrafts its wines (literally, not figuratively) on-site from hand-picked grapes using the traditional methods of open fermentation, hand plunging and basket pressing.

Wed–Sun 10am–5pm

Some say the personalised tastings at this small cellar door are one of the Valley’s best wine-tasting experiences. You can enjoy outstanding aged, single vineyard wines in a lovely country setting, so visit and see if the smallest winegrower in the Valley can make great wine! Sat 10.30am–5pm, Fri and Mon by appointment

HUNTER’S DREAM

MACQUARIEDALE ORGANIC WINES

149 DEASYS RD, ROTHBURY

��� SWEETWATER RD, ROTHBURY

��� HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 6574 7093 E info@tintilla.com.au tintilla.com.au

T 02 4998 7069 E enquiries@ushertinklerwines.com ushertinklerwines.com

T 02 4998 6509 E admin.hd@naturescare.com.au Discover the unforgettable tranquillity and beauty of this 77-hectare estate, owned and managed by renowned health care company, Nature’s Care.

Enjoy exquisite gardens and vineyards whilst tasting an exceptional range of estate-produced wines at the newly opened cellar door.

Daily 10am–4.30pm

T 02 4998 7580 E cellardoor@tullochwines.com tullochwines.com

T 02 4998 7410 E finewines@vindenestate.com.au vindenestate.com.au

T 02 4993 7000 E cellardoor@tyrrells.com.au tyrrells.com.au

T 02 6574 7357 E wines@wombatcrossing.net wombatcrossing.com.au

T 02 6574 7012 E sales@macquariedale.com.au macquariedale.com.au Visit Macquariedale and experience striking views and an award-winning range of certified organic and biodynamic wines, rich in flavour, full of colour and with a fabulous diversity of aromas (as well as low in sulphur preservatives) achieved through sustainable farming practices. Vineyard tours by arrangement.

Daily 10am–5pm

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CELLAR DOORS MOUNT VIEW • UPPER HUNTER • WOLLOMBI

BRIAR RIDGE VINEYARD

MOUNT VIEW ESTATE

PETERSONS WINES

��� MOUNT VIEW RD, MOUNT VIEW

502 MOUNT VIEW RD, MOUNT VIEW

��� MOUNT VIEW RD, MOUNT VIEW

This James Halliday 5-star rated winery is a leading producer of iconic Hunter Valley wines, consistently winning awards. The charming cellar door, with mountain views and tranquil gardens, offers wine tasting, sales and cheese and antipasto plates. The reception room is ideal for weddings.

Daily 10am–5pm

Located in the picturesque Mount View region, offering highly awarded wines all handmade on-site.

From vine to glass, Mount View Estate prides itself on producing exceptional boutique wines. This premium winery is a James Halliday red 5-star rated winery. Go and taste the wines, experience the hospitality and enjoy the incredible view! Daily 10am–5pm

The family-owned Petersons Wines has been making award-winning wines for more than 30 years. Sitting among the rolling hills of Mount View, the cellar door has a spectacular backdrop with impressive views and friendly staff who will treat you to a taste of the current releases.

Mon–Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 10am–5pm

SAVANNAH ESTATE

TALLAVERA GROVE VINEYARD

TWO RIVERS WINES

��� MOUNT VIEW RD, MOUNT VIEW

T 02 4990 6326 E wine@savannahestate.com.au savannahestate.com.au

��� MOUNT VIEW RD, MOUNT VIEW

T 02 4990 7535 E cellardoor@tallaveragrove.com.au tallaveragrove.com.au

� YARRAWA RD, DENMAN

Cosy and inviting boutique cellar door with medal-winning wines at the gateway to Mount View.

Taste a range of sparkling, dessert, red and white wines made from select parcels of fruit from the Hunter Valley and other regions on the verandah or indoors by the fire in winter.

Mon–Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 10am–5pm

Nestled in the scenic hills of Mount View with breathtaking views over the Valley, this James Halliday 5-star winery offers single-vineyard, small production wines, including cult Italian varieties such as Vermentino and Sagrantino. All wines are available to enjoy over lunch at the adjoining Bistro Molines restaurant. Thu–Mon 10am–5pm

Escape to the tranquillity of the Upper Hunter at Two Rivers, near the picturesque village of Denman, just an hour’s drive from Pokolbin. Enjoy award-winning wines with a tasting platter filled with local produce while relaxing on the sun-drenched deck overlooking the new sandstone sculpture collection. A James Halliday 5-star winery. Daily 11am–4pm

STONEHURST WINES

WOLLOMBI WINES

���� WOLLOMBI RD, WOLLOMBI

WOLLOMBI RD, WOLLOMBI

Stonehurst believes that a great wine begins in the vineyard, producing award-winning wines from organically grown, hand-picked fruit. Enjoy a warm welcome at this boutique winery, beside the original convict road on an 1820s Napoleonic War veteran’s land grant.

Daily 10am–5pm

Wollombi Wines boasts a scenic setting on the banks of Wollombi Brook, just 1km from the historic village of Wollombi. Savour winemaker Nick Paterson’s superb wines and enjoy a picnic and BBQ facilities under shady pergolas. Groups, kids and pets all welcome.

Wed–Mon 10am–5pm

T 02 4990 3670 E cellardoor@briarridge.com.au briarridge.com.au

DEEPLY FASCINATING WITH RICH OVERTONES OF ENJOYMENT AND A LONG, MEMORABLE FINISH. 96

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T 02 4990 3307 E sales@mtviewestate.com.au mtviewestate.com.au

T 02 4998 1576 E wines@stonehurst.com.au stonehurst.com.au

T 02 4990 1704 E sales@petersonswines.com.au petersonswines.com.au

T 02 6547 2556 E linda@tworivers.com.au tworivers.com.au

T 02 4998 3427 E orders@wollombiwines.com.au wollombiwines.com.au

CELLAR DOOR

I

GUEST COTTAGE

I

GOURMET PLATTERS

Breathtaking escarpments, ancient topography, stunning landscapes - just some of the attractions you will pass on your drive to the idyllic village of Denman in the Upper Hunter - home of the award winning Two Rivers wines.

Our cellar door is the ideal place to relax with a beautiful outdoor area, sandstone sculpture garden and stunning views over the valley.

Enjoy a glass of Two Rivers wine while sampling our generous cheese and antipasto platters, full of delicious locally sourced produce.

2 Yarrawa Road Denman NSW I phone (02) 65 47 2556 I email linda@tworivers.com.au I www.tworiverswines.com.au

explore, escape, relax...

Celebrating 32 Years of Excellence in Wine TROPHY World’s Best Semillon 2016 International Wine Challenge TROPHY Best Australian Semillon 2016 International Wine Challenge TROPHY Best NSW Semillon 2016 International Wine Challenge TROPHY Best ‘Named Vineyard’ Semillon 2015 Hunter Valley Wine Show

Family owned since 1985. Our exclusive and exceptional range is only available through our cellar door and selected outlets.

462 DeBeyers Road Pokolbin | Cellar Door 10am to 5pm daily 02 4998 7754 | info@mcleishestatewines.com.au | www.mcleishestatewines.com.au

Restaurants & cafes.

LICENSED

VEGETARIAN OPTIONS

SPECIAL DIETS

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02 4990 9553

FRI–SUN

FREE WIFI

@ Tallavera Grove, 749 Mount View Rd, Mount View

SUN

BYO

02 6579 1372

AL FRESCO DINING

1238 Milbrodale Rd, Broke

MAP

ACCOMMODATION

PHONE

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ADDRESS

LUNCH

NAME

BREAKFAST

GET A TASTE FOR THE HUNTER VALLEY WAY OF LIFE.

BROKE Margan Winery & Restaurant

MOUNT VIEW Bistro Molines

LOVEDALE Emerson’s Cafe & Restaurant

@ Adina Vineyard, 492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 7029

Lovedale Smokehouse Cafe

64 Majors Ln, Lovedale

02 4930 7832

THU–MON

Sabor Tea Room

319 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale

1300 958 850

SAT-SUN

The Deck Cafe

@ Gartelmann Wines, 701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 9007

Amanda’s on the Edge

@ Windsor’s Edge Vineyard, 1039 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7900

FRI–MON

7 DAYS

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Brokenback Bar

@ Estate Tuscany, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7288

7 DAYS

7 DAYS

✓

Cafe Enzo

@ Peppers Creek Village, Cnr Broke & Ekerts Rds, Pokolbin

02 4998 7233

7 DAYS

7 DAYS

Cypress Lakes Bistro & Bar

@ Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort, 15 Thompsons Rd, Pokolbin

02 4993 1555

7 DAYS

7 DAYS

7 DAYS

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Epoche Lounge Bar

@ Kirkton Park Hunter Valley, 336 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7680

7 DAYS

7 DAYS

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Esca Bimbadgen

@ Bimbadgen, 790 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 4666

7 DAYS

FRI–SAT

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EXP Restaurant

@ Oakvale Wines, 1596 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7264

FRI–SUN

WED–SAT

Harrigan’s Irish Pub

2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 4300

7 DAYS

7 DAYS

✓

✓

Il Cacciatore Restaurant

@ Hermitage Lodge, 609 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7639

7 DAYS

✓

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IronBark Hill Cafe

@ Peter Drayton Wines, 694 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7085

✓

✓

Locavore Dining

@ Kirkton Park Hunter Valley, 336 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7680

7 DAYS

✓

✓

Matilda Bay Brewhouse + Dining

@ Hunter Valley Resort, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7777

7 DAYS

7 DAYS

✓

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Muse Kitchen

@ Keith Tulloch Winery, Cnr Hermitage & Deasys Rds, Pokolbin

02 4998 7899

WED–SUN

SAT

Muse Restaurant

@ Hungerford Hill Wines, 2450 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6777

SAT–SUN

WED–SAT

Oishii

@ Roche Estate Complex, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rds, Pokolbin

02 4998 7051

7 DAYS

7 DAYS

Restaurant Botanica

@ Spicers Vineyards Estate, 555 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7229

SAT–SUN

5 DAYS

Restaurant Cuvée

@ Peterson House, Cnr Broke Rd & Wine Country Dr, Pokolbin

02 4998 7881

7 DAYS

7 DAYS

RidgeView Restaurant

@ RidgeView Wines, 273 Sweetwater Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7332

FRI–SUN

THU–SUN

THU–SUN

Sabor Dessert Bar

@ Lambloch Estate, 2342 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

1300 958 939

THU–MON THU–MON

FRI–SAT

Taste of the Country

Shop 11, Hunter Valley Gardens Village, 2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6605

The Cellar Restaurant

@ Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7584

The Mill Restaurant

@ Estate Tuscany, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7288

SAT–SUN

7 DAYS

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POKOLBIN � ROTHBURY

7 DAYS

7 DAYS

7 DAYS

7 DAYS

7 DAYS

MON-SAT

SAT-SUN

7 DAYS

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WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

99

Restaurants & cafes.

7 DAYS

17 Vincent St, Cessnock

02 4990 8666

7 DAYS

7 DAYS

41–43 George St, Singleton

02 6572 1866

✓

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TAKEAWAYS

02 4998 2213

SPECIAL DIETS

@ The Vintage Golf Club, Vintage Dr, Rothbury

VEGETARIAN OPTIONS

7 DAYS

LICENSED

7 DAYS

KIDS’ MENU

02 4998 6699

HAMPERS

02 4998 7231

@ De Iuliis Wines, 1616 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

FUNCTIONS

@ Calais Estate, 151 Palmers Ln, Pokolbin

Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen

FREE WIFI

The Verandah Restaurant

BYO

THU–SUN

PHONE

AL FRESCO DINING

DINNER

7 DAYS

ADDRESS

ACCOMMODATION

LUNCH

NAME

BREAKFAST

GET A TASTE FOR THE HUNTER VALLEY WAY OF LIFE.

POKOLBIN CONTINUED ✓

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ROTHBURY The Legends Grill

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CESSNOCK Al-Oi Thai Restaurant

✓

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SINGLETON Worn Out Wares

WINERY/CELLAR DOOR

ACCOMMODATION

BYO

7 DAYS

7 DAYS

✓

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KIDS' MENU

RUGS � ROLLS

Pick up some goodies from one of the Hunter Valley’s gourmet producers and head to a vineyard for a picnic or barbecue: Gemelli Estate

1 x Gas BBQ

Hermitage Road Cellars & Winery

2 x Gas BBQs

Kevin Sobels Wines

1 x Gas BBQ

McLeish Estate

4 x Gas BBQs

Pepper Tree Wines

Picnic Area

Petersons Wines

1 x Gas BBQ

Stonehurst Wines

Picnic Area

Tellace Wines

2 x Gas BBQs

Tyrrell’s Wines

3 x Electric BBQs

Wollombi Wines

2 x Gas BBQs

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Families should also consider making tracks to Hunter Valley Gardens Village, which offers the biggest and best public barbecue and picnic area, featuring six electric barbecues and a children’s playground to keep the little ones happy.

Dine right on the edge of our picturesque vineyard with views from every table.

Alfresco dining in the warmer months or in winter cosy up by the fire.

RESTAURANTS � CAFES BROKE • MOUNT VIEW • LOVEDALE • POKOLBIN

MARGAN WINERY � RESTAURANT

BISTRO MOLINES

EMERSON’S CAFE � RESTAURANT

���� MILBRODALE RD, BROKE

@ TALLAVERA GROVE, ��� MOUNT VIEW RD, MOUNT VIEW T 02 4990 9553

@ ADINA VINEYARD, ��� LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

T 02 6579 1372 E restaurant@margan.com.au margan.com.au

T 02 4930 7029 E info@emersonsrestaurant.com.au emersonsrestaurant.com.au

Savour the complete food and wine experience, with seasonal cuisine sourced locally and from Margan’s kitchen garden with estate-grown wines. One Chef’s Hat SMH 2017, Excellence in Food Tourism, Australian Tourism Awards 2016, Sustainable Restaurant of the Year, SMH GFG 2014; NSW Tourism Awards Hall of Fame.

Lunch Fri–Sun 12–3pm, dinner Thu–Sat 6–9pm

E dine@bistromolines.com.au bistromolines.com.au Bistro Molines boasts spectacular views overlooking Mount View vineyards. Robert and Sally Molines take pleasure in offering French Provincial dishes combined with attentive, friendly service and beautiful surrounds. Awarded one chef’s hat Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide 2010–2014.

Lunch Thu–Mon 12–3pm, dinner Fri–Sat 7–9pm

LOVEDALE SMOKEHOUSE CAFE

SABOR TEA ROOM

THE DECK CAFE LOVEDALE

�� MAJORS LN, LOVEDALE

319 WILDERNESS RD, LOVEDALE

@ GARTELMANN WINES, ��� LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

Lovedale Smokehouse Cafe serves handmade artisanal charcuterie including smoked and cured meats, fish and cheese. Enjoy a relaxing lunch with a glass of estate-grown wine in the stunning courtyard complete with water features and vineyard views, or indoors surrounded by local artwork.

Lunch Thu–Mon 10.30am–4pm

Sabor Tea Room is the Hunter Valley’s premier tea house where you can enjoy the ultimate High Tea experience.

Vintage tea sets and a selection of savoury and sweet delights will please both your eyes and your palate.

Two tea sessions daily on weekends. Bookings essential.

Sat–Sun 10.30am & 2.30pm

The Deck Cafe, located at Gartelmann Wines in Lovedale, is a stylish restaurant-style cafe open for breakfast and lunch seven days a week. The cafe provides a diverse menu complemented by Garltelmann wines and a generous range of beverages, including Piazza D'oro coffee. Mon–Fri 8.30am–3.30pm, Sat–Sun 8am–3.30pm

T 02 4930 7832 E majorslane@bigpond.com majorslane.com

T 1300 958 850 E sabortearoom@gmail.com sabortearoom.com.au

Emerson’s caters for hungry diners with hearty breakfasts, lunches and Modern Australian cuisine during dinner service, with the option of an eight-course degustation menu Thu–Sun nights.

Breakfast Sat–Sun 8–11am, lunch Wed–Sun 11am–3pm, dinner Thu–Sun 6–10pm

T 02 4930 9007 E info@deckcafelovedale.com.au deckcafelovedale.com.au

AMANDA’S ON THE EDGE @ WINDSOR’S EDGE VINEYARD, ���� MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7900 E dine@amandas.com.au amandas.com.au Amanda’s on the Edge offers magnificent vineyard views from every table. Dine on delicious international and Modern Australian seasonal flavours by the log fire in winter, al fresco on the verandah or at lawn tables that are ideal for families with young children.

Lunch Fri–Mon 12–3pm, dinner daily 5.30–9.30pm

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RESTAURANTS � CAFES POKOLBIN

BROKENBACK BAR

CAFE ENZO

CYPRESS LAKES BISTRO & BAR

@ ESTATE TUSCANY, CNR HERMITAGE RD � MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

@ PEPPERS CREEK VILLAGE, CNR BROKE � EKERTS RDS, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 7233 E cafeenzo@westnet.com.au

@ OAKS CYPRESS LAKES RESORT, 15 THOMPSONS RD, POKOLBIN T 02 4993 1555

enzohuntervalley.com.au Sip a Campos coffee while feasting on seasonal menus using homemade and locally grown produce.

Cafe Enzo is known for its sandstone surrounds, relaxed al fresco dining and Victorian fireplace.

Functions on request. Open for breakfast and lunch. Mon–Thu 9am–4pm, Fri 9am–4.30pm, Sat 8.30am–4.30pm, Sun 8am–4pm

E RBMCypressLakes@theoaksgroup.com.au oakshotels.com Members, guests and locals relax and enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at Cypress Lakes Bistro & Bar overlooking the spectacular fairways, vineyards and Brockenback Range. Live entertainment on weekends. Breakfast Mon–Fri 7–10am, Sat–Sun 7–10.30am, lunch daily 11am–5pm, dinner daily 5pm–late

EPOCHE LOUNGE BAR

ESCA BIMBADGEN

EXP RESTAURANT

@ KIRKTON PARK HUNTER VALLEY, 336 OAKEY CREEK RD, POKOLBIN

@ BIMBADGEN, ��� MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

@ OAKVALE WINES, 1596 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

Dedicated to the art of food and wine matching, Esca’s Modern Australian cuisine and spectacular views make for a memorable dining experience.

Winner of over 15 awards for excellence in its 12-year history, Esca exemplifies the unique nature of a winery restaurant. Lunch daily from 12pm, dinner Fri–Sat from 6pm

This hidden gem is chic and intimate with handcrafted local furniture and views overlooking the kitchen garden. Guests can sit along the bar and peer directly into the kitchen while interacting with chef Frank Fawkner and his team. Lunch Fri–Sun 12–3pm, dinner Wed–Sat 6–9pm

IL CACCIATORE RESTAURANT

LOCAVORE DINING

@ HERMITAGE LODGE, ��� MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 7639

@ KIRKTON PARK HUNTER VALLEY, ��� OAKEY CREEK RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7288 E reservations@estatetuscany.com.au estatetuscany.com.au Enjoy unsurpassed views overlooking vineyards and the mountain range while having a casual bite to eat.

Wood-fired pizzas, share plates, tapas, Movenpick ice-cream and sweet things to have with your coffee or tea. Takeaway, group and private bookings available.

Mon–Fri 12.30pm–late, Sat–Sun 12pm–late

T 02 4998 7680 E reservationskirktonpark@ihg.com kirktonparkhuntervalley.com.au Introducing Epoche Lounge Bar, the Hunter Valley's new home of cocktails, local wines and craft beer. Enjoy burgers and tapas in front of the roaring open fire or pizza straight from the outdoor wood-fired oven. Sun–Thu 11am–10pm, Fri–Sat noon–late

HARRIGAN’S IRISH PUB � ACCOMMODATION ���� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 4300 E enquiries@harrigans.com.au harrigans.com.au This family-friendly hotel offers excellent value meals with live entertainment every weekend and a jumping castle for the kids. Enjoy a pint of Guinness or select from the range of boutique Australian and imported beers. Daily, breakfast 7–10.30am, lunch 12–3pm, dinner 5.30–9pm

T 02 4998 4666 E esca@bimbadgen.com.au bimbadgen.com.au

E info@hermitagelodge.com.au ilcacciatore.com.au Il Cacciatore offers Northern Italian-inspired cuisine using fresh, local produce and authentic Italian ingredients. Dine in a relaxed atmosphere indoors or al fresco overlooking the reed-lined dam with friendly, attentive service. Takeaway pizzas and pastas from 5pm daily. Gnocchi-making classes on request. Dinner daily from 6pm; lunch for private functions only

T 02 4998 7264 E reservations@exprestaurant.com.au exprestaurant.com.au

T 02 4998 7680 E reservationskirktonpark@ihg.com kirktonparkhuntervalley.com.au A locavore is a person interested in eating food that is produced locally within 100 miles of home. The Farm, Forage and Graze menu features ingredients from the grounds at Kirkton Park and local Hunter Valley producers. Private dining room available for group bookings. Dinner daily from 6pm

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RESTAURANTS � CAFES POKOLBIN

MATILDA BAY BREWHOUSE + DINING

MUSE KITCHEN

MUSE RESTAURANT

@ KEITH TULLOCH WINERY, CNR HERMITAGE � DEASYS RDS, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 7899

E dining@hunterresort.com.au hunterresort.com.au Offering bites, pizza and pasta, with all pasta made from scratch in the traditional Italian way. Sample the 12 craft brews, see the wine theatre, wine and cooking school, and the candymaking class. Dine in or takeaway. Daily, breakfast 7.30–9.30am, lunch 12–4pm, dinner 6pm–late

E muse@musedining.com.au musedining.com.au Located at Keith Tulloch Winery, this Europeaninspired bistro is the little sister to Muse Restaurant at Hungerford Hill Wines. Inspired by seasonal produce and quality-controlled cooking, Muse Kitchen offers an award-winning casual dining experience for you to enjoy, relax and share. Lunch Wed–Sun 12–3pm, dinner Sat 6–9pm

@ HUNGERFORD HILL WINES, ���� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 6777

OISHII

RESTAURANT BOTANICA

RESTAURANT CUVÉE

@ ROCHE ESTATE COMPLEX, CNR BROKE � MCDONALDS RDS, POKOLBIN

@ SPICERS VINEYARDS ESTATE, ��� HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN T 02 6574 7229

@ PETERSON HOUSE, CNR BROKE RD & WINE COUNTRY DR, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 7881

With stunning vineyard and mountain views, an award-winning wine list, a welcoming and passionate team, and an abundant kitchen garden, Restaurant Botanica offers intimate and relaxed regional dining at its best. Lunch Sat–Sun 12–3pm, dinner Wed–Sun from 6pm

Located within the atmospheric sandstone walls of Peterson House, Restaurant Cuvée is a popular stop for bubbles with breakfast or a leisurely lunch gazing over the vines. The á la carte menu uses local produce, offering modern Australia cuisine at its best. Daily, breakfast 8.30–11am, lunch 12–3pm

SABOR DESSERT BAR

THE CELLAR RESTAURANT

@ LAMBLOCH ESTATE, 2342 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

@ HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS VILLAGE, BROKE RD, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 7584 E thecellar@bigpond.com

@ HUNTER VALLEY RESORT, CNR HERMITAGE RD � MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 7777

T 02 4998 7051 E info@oishii.com.au oishii.com.au This Thai/Japanese restaurant offers an extensive menu including traditional favourites such as teriyaki chicken, Thai curries, sushi and sashimi.

Dine inside the Asian-themed room or on the covered terrace overlooking the vines and architecturally designed amphitheatre. Takeaway available.

Daily, lunch 11.30am–3pm, dinner 5.30–9.30pm

RIDGEVIEW RESTAURANT @ RIDGEVIEW WINES, ��� SWEETWATER RD, POKOLBIN T 02 6574 7332

E dine@ridgeview.com.au ridgeview.com.au RidgeView’s Mediterranean and Middle Easterninspired cuisine uses fresh seasonal produce from the on-site kitchen garden. All dishes – both modern and traditional Mezedhes and Cypriot Meze Feast – are designed to share, with an emphasis on food/ wine pairing. Breakfast uses free-range eggs from the owner’s hens. Thu 12–8pm, Fri–Sat 9am–late, Sun 9am–8pm

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E reception.vineyards@spicersretreats.com spicersretreats.com/spicers-vineyards-estate

T 1300 958 939 E saborpokolbin@gmail.com saborinthehunter.com.au

Offering over 50 desserts paired with local wines.

Indulge in the award-winning Portuguese chocolate mousse, individual decadent desserts, sweet gourmet products, gluten-free desserts, baristamade coffee and tea to dine-in or takeaway.

Thu–Fri 10am–4.30pm, Sat 10am–9.30pm, Sun-Mon 10am–4.30pm

E muse@musedining.com.au musedining.com.au Focused on delivering refined, seasonal produce with professional, intuitive service that strives to impress, comfort and connect, Muse is one of Australia’s finest regional restaurants. After seven successful years, multiple awards and thousands of delighted diners, Muse continues to deliver a memorable experience.

Lunch Sat–Sun 12–3pm, dinner Wed–Sat 6.30–10pm

E cuvee@petersonhouse.com.au petersonhouse.com.au

the-cellar-restaurant.com.au The Cellar Restaurant specialises in rustic Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on quality steaks, as well as a range of other meats, poultry and fish, all cooked to your liking on the char-grill.

Dine inside in the indoor garden setting or al fresco in the courtyard. Lunch Mon–Sat from 12pm, dinner Mon–Sat from 6pm

RESTAURANTS � CAFES POKOLBIN • ROTHBURY • CESSNOCK • SINGLETON

THE MILL RESTAURANT

THE VERANDAH RESTAURANT

@ ESTATE TUSCANY, CNR HERMITAGE RD � MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

@ CALAIS ESTATE, ��� PALMERS LN, POKOLBIN

TWO FAT BLOKES GOURMET KITCHEN

T 02 4998 7288 E reservations@estatetuscany.com.au estatetuscany.com.au

T 02 4998 7231 E bookings@verandahrestaurant.com.au @ DE IULIIS WINES, ���� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN verandahrestaurant.com.au T 02 4998 6699 E info@twofatblokes.com.au twofatblokes.com.au Located on the award-winning Calais Estate, The

Savour fusion cuisine while enjoying panoramic vineyard and mountain views. This award-winning restaurant offers outstanding food and service, also catering for groups and weddings (exclusivity by application).

Bookings recommended. Breakfast daily 8–10am, lunch Sat–Sun 12.30–4pm, dinner daily from 6.30pm

Verandah Restaurant has sweeping views over the vineyards and Brokenback Range. Enjoy all weather-dining on the verandah or inside by the fire on winter nights, plus a modern tapas-style menu showcasing local produce. Lunch Mon–Fri 12–3pm, Sat–Sun 12–4pm, dinner Thu–Sun from 6pm

A European-style deli/cafe matching wine and beer with a menu that revolves around the deli, which is stocked with cheeses and smallgoods. Tasting platters, Swiss cheese and chocolate fondues, and a cheese and wine experience daily at 11am and 3pm (bookings essential). Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, Sat–Sun 7.30am–5pm

THE LEGENDS GRILL

AL-OI THAI RESTAURANT

WORN OUT WARES

@ THE VINTAGE GOLF CLUB, VINTAGE DR, ROTHBURY

�� VINCENT ST, CESSNOCK

41–43 GEORGE ST, SINGLETON

With its contemporary interior and welcoming ambience, Legends Grill is the place to unwind, relax and indulge. Enjoy the experience of savouring mouth-watering Australian steaks, local produce, premium wines and delicious cocktails while overlooking the magnificent golf course and Brokenback Range. Daily 7am–late

Traditionally Thai food is to be shared and Al-Oi Thai provides the perfect venue for sharing, whether it’s a romantic dinner or a celebration with family and friends. Al-Oi Thai is a family-run restaurant that uses only the best produce. Deliveries available.

Lunch daily 11am–3pm, dinner Mon–Fri 4.45–10pm, Sat–Sun 4.30–10pm

T 02 4998 2213 E reception@thevintage.com.au thevintage.com.au

T 02 4990 8666 aloithai.com.au

T 02 6572 1866 wornoutwares.com.au A relaxed cafe incorporating delicious food, old and new homewares, gifts and a florist – a favourite destination, meeting place and tourist attraction for locals and travellers alike. "Every inch a delight to the senses", according to Country Style magazine.

Breakfast Mon–Fri 7–11.30am; Sat–Sun 8am–2pm, lunch Mon–Sat 11.30am–4pm, Sun 11.30am–2.30pm

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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FEAST ON LOCAL PRODUCE AND DISCOVER BOUTIQUE BEERS.

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106

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Hunter Distillery

1686 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6737

Matilda Bay Brewhouse

@ Hunter Valley Resort, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7777

Binnorie Dairy

@ Estate Tuscany, cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 6660

✓

106

MAP 1 F2

Cocoa Nib

@ Keith Tulloch Wines, 982 Hermitage Rd (Cnr Deasys Rd), Pokolbin

02 4998 7350

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107

MAP 1 G3

Hunter Valley Cheese Factory

@ McGuigans Complex, 447 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7744

✓

107

MAP 1 J6

Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop

@ Roche Estate Complex, Pavilion G, 2144 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6713

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107

MAP 1 J6

Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop

@ Pokolbin Village, 3/2188 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6960

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107

MAP 1 J6

Lovedale Smokehouse

64 Majors Ln, Lovedale

02 4930 7832

✓

107

MAP 1 H12

Tinklers Produce

53 Pokolbin Mountains Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7435

107

MAP 1 M4

Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen

@ De Iuliis Wines, 1616 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6699

105

MAP 1 J2

PRODUCE

FREE TASTING

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TOURS

HUNTER DISTILLERY

MATILDA BAY BREWHOUSE

BINNORIE DAIRY

���� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

@ HUNTER VALLEY RESORT, CNR HERMITAGE RD � MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

@ ESTATE TUSCANY, CNR HERMITAGE RD & MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

What better way to finish a hard day of wine-tasting than with one of Matilda Bay Brewhouse’s 12 craft beers? Try the beer-tasting paddle with each of the brews, laze away the afternoon listening to great music or try something delicious off the blackboard menu. Daily 10am–late

Simon Gough opened Binnorie Dairy in 2003 after making cheese in Europe and Victoria’s Yarra Valley.

He creates hand-crafted soft cow and goat cheeses made from locally sourced milk, which are the gourmet choice in many local restaurants. Drop in for a free tasting. Tue–Sat 10am–5pm, Sun 10am–4pm

T 02 4998 6737 E info@hunterdistillery.com.au hunterdistillery.com.au Enjoy a tasting experience like no other at the Valley’s only certified organic distillery. Hunter Distillery uses premium-quality organic raw ingredients to produce an exceptional range of top-shelf spirits, including vodka, flavoured vodkas, gin, liqueurs, schnapps and specialty spirits. Daily 10am–5pm

106

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T 02 4998 7777 E brewery@hunterresort.com.au hunterresort.com.au

T 02 4998 6660 E binnoriedairy@bigpond.com binnorie.com.au

GOURMET PRODUCE

COCOA NIB

HUNTER VALLEY CHEESE FACTORY

@ KEITH TULLOCH WINES, 982 HERMITAGE RD (CNR DEASYS RD), POKOLBIN

@ MCGUIGANS COMPLEX, ��� MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 7744

Located at Keith Tulloch Wines, Cocoa Nib boasts a beautiful array of handmade chocolates, confections, cakes and sweet treats. Come and relax and enjoy a locally roasted coffee, tea or indulge in one of the luxurious housemade hot chocolates or iced drinks.

Wed–Mon 10am–5pm

Sample handmade cheese made on-site, and enjoy free cheesemaking talks daily at 11am and 3pm at this boutique cheesery. Plus, there’s a range of regional and housemade produce, cheeseboards and charcuterie for al fresco snacks.

Daily 9am–5.30pm

HUNTER VALLEY SMELLY CHEESE SHOP

LOVEDALE SMOKEHOUSE

TINKLERS PRODUCE

�� MAJORS LN, LOVEDALE

�� POKOLBIN MOUNTAINS RD, POKOLBIN

Creators and providores of handmade artisanal charcuterie, including smoked seafood, cheese, lamb, beef, pork, poultry, game and sausages. The Gourmet Pantry is also stocked with cured meats, terrines, pates, olive oils, sauces, salad dressings, chutneys, jams and sweet treats. Smoking and curing masterclasses also available. Thu–Mon 10am–5pm

The Tinkler family has been farming for more than 60 years, growing an abundance of seasonal produce including table grapes, peaches, nectarines, avocados, figs, mixed citrus and vegetables. You can buy the home-grown, hand-picked produce fresh or there’s a wide range of jams and preserves.

Daily 10am–5pm

T 02 4998 7350 E aymee@cocoanib.com.au cocoanib.com.au

@ ROCHE ESTATE COMPLEX, PAVILION G, ���� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 6713 E info@smellycheese.net.au smellycheese.net.au Providores of the finest local and imported cheeses, gourmet foods and gelato, including their own product range. You can take the goodies home or sit down and enjoy a pizza, baguette or burger with a glass of local wine or beer. Daily 10am–5pm

E contact@huntervalleycheese.com.au huntervalleycheese.com.au

T 02 4930 7832 E majorslane@bigpond.com majorslane.com

T 02 4998 7435 E enjoy@tinklers.com.au tinklers.com.au

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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Open 7 days breakfast and lunch • Bookings recommended Cnr Broke & Ekerts Rd Pokolbin • 4998 7233 enzohuntervalley www.enzohuntervalley.com.au •

Tours.

Almighty Tours & Transport

Hunter Valley

0401 827 568

Best Tour

0437 149 612

Cheers Bus

0408 987 057

diVine tours

0414 858 671

Fine Wine Tours

0421 855 355

Grape Vine Tours

0437 451 742

Hall’s Private Transfers

0431 810 548

Hertz Rent A Car

1A Aberdare Rd, Cessnock

PAGE

0459 145 065

SMALL GROUP TOURS

PHONE

LARGE GROUP TOURS

ADDRESS

All Around the Vines

TRANSFER SERVICES

NAME

SYDNEY PICK-UP

DISCOVER THE SECRETS OF THE HUNTER VALLEY.

✓

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MAP N/A

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MAP 1 P11 MAP 1 E15

02 4991 2500

Hunter Valley Cadillacs

0429 346 759

✓

111

Hunter Valley Classic Carriages

02 4991 3655

✓

111

N/A

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✓

111

MAP 1 F2

✓

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Hunter Valley Horses

@ Hunter Valley Resort, 917 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

Hunter Valley Private Tours by Wendt on Tours

0431 337 367 02 4998 6757

Hunter Valley Tours

Cessnock

Hunter Valley Tours 4U

Hunter Valley

Hunter Valley Vine Link Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Tours

✓

0456 737 888

✓ ✓

0488 190 884 ✓

02 9357 5511

✓

Hunter Valley

0455 535 035

✓

Kings Hunter Hire Car Services

Cessnock

0421 855 115

✓

Off the Vine Wine Tours

Hunter Valley

Silver Service Limousines SydneyDriver.com

Sydney

Tastes Of The Hunter Wine Tours

N/A

N/A

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✓

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MAP 1 B0

0490 465 973

✓

0499 300 467

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02 6571 1600

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0408 987 788

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0403 001 154

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MAP 1 Q8

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Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Tours

0414 316 859

Vineyard Shuttle Service

02 4991 3655

Wine Country Limousines

02 4990 2852

Wine Country Tours

N/A

✓

✓

iHop Hunter Valley Luxlift Airport Transfers

✓

✓

02 4930 7689

02 9484 0477

Wine D Road Tours

Hunter Valley

0437 543 078

Zepher Tours

154 Redfern St, Redfern

0406 757 295

✓

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SYDNEY PICK-UP

REMARKABLE BLEND OF UNIQUE EXPERIENCES. A

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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TOURS

ALL AROUND THE VINES

BEST TOUR

M 0459 145 065 E enquiries@allaroundthevines.com.au

M 0437 149 612 E besttour@bigpond.com

FINE WINE TOURS

GRAPE VINE TOURS

allaroundthevines.com.au Join All Around the Vines and tour the picturesque Hunter Valley on a half- or full-day wine tour. The company caters for small or large groups, runs private tailor-made tours, golf packages, and cheese, chocolate and olive tours. Restaurant, social functions and airport transfers also available. Daily

DIVINE TOURS M 0414 858 671 E INFO@DIVINETOURS.COM.AU

divinetours.com.au Offering gourmet wine tours for small groups including restaurant lunch, wine tasting, cheese and chocolate tasting, commentary and a behind-the-scenes winery tour to make the day informative and fun. Private tours with exclusive use of the bus and an itinerary tailored to you are available on request. Daily

HOW AN HOUR

PRESSING GRAPES

PRODUCED A VINTAGE YEAR FROM THE

SALES TEAM. winecountry.com.au

110

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

M 0421 855 355 E info@finewinetours.net

finewinetours.net Discover, learn and enjoy with Fine Wine Tours.

This tour company offers guided educational wine appreciation tours of the Hunter Valley and other regions within NSW/ACT. Specialises in small readily formed groups of 10–20 guests, but caters for larger groups on request. On request

besttour.com.au Family-owned and operated, Best Tour has been running winery tours since 2001. For a great day out, hop aboard the Best Tour bus and join a small-group tour that showcases the best of the Hunter Valley Wine Country, including tastings of some benchmark wines. Bookings essential

M 0437 451 742 E info@grapevinetours.com.au grapevinetours.com.au Grape Vine Tours is family owned and operated out of the Hunter Valley, and is committed to providing you with the most enjoyable wine tour experience, whether you’re completely new to wine or a wine connoisseur. Daily

TOURS

HERTZ RENT A CAR

HUNTER VALLEY CADILLACS

�A ABERDARE RD, CESSNOCK

T 0429 346 759 E cruise@huntervalleycadillacs.com.au

T 02 4991 2500 E hertzcessnonk@dkthompson.com.au hertz.com.au Explore the Hunter Valley at your own pace with a Hertz rental car. Hertz offers competitive rates, one-way rentals, delivery to your hotel, hatches, sedans, wagons and buses, and you can earn Virgin Australia frequent flyer points. The friendly team is waiting to assist you. Also covers Maitland.

Mon–Fri 8am–5pm, Sat 8am–12pm

HUNTER VALLEY HORSES @ HUNTER VALLEY RESORT, ��� HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

M 0431 337 367 E hvhorseriding@yahoo.com.au huntervalleycarriages.com.au A ride on the horse or a drink in the carriage, it’s fun for the kids and good for the marriage! Offering horseriding, pony rides, full- and half-day horse and carriage wine tours, private charters and wedding carriage hire. Daily 9am–5pm, bookings essential

huntervalleycadillacs.com.au Private and exclusive wine-tasting tours. Fun, friendly and unique, a tour in a 1960 Cadillac convertible or 1958 Cadillac limousine is the ultimate way to enjoy all the Hunter Valley has to offer. Rated 5 stars on TripAdvisor. Daily

HUNTER VALLEY WINE TASTING TOURS � TRANSFERS T 02 9357 5511 E info@huntervalleywinetastingtours.com.au huntervalleywinetastingtours.com.au

Specialists in small, personal day tours of the Hunter Valley wineries in luxury Mercedes-Benz mini-coaches.

Daily 10am-4pm wine tours include wine tastings at a selection of five cellar doors, lunch options and visits to cheese and chocolate outlets. Half-day tours and restaurant transfers available. Daily 10am–4pm

HUNTER VALLEY CLASSIC CARRIAGES

T 02 4991 3655 E tours@huntervalleyclassiccarriages.com.au huntervalleyclassiccarriages.com.au Clip-clop your way along tree-lined back roads of Pokolbin in unique old-style covered wagons or Victorian and Landau carriages. Offering full- or half-day general tours for couples or groups, plus exclusive tours for two to four guests. Family horse-drawn carriage rides and wedding carriage hire available. Daily

iHOP HUNTER VALLEY

T 0455 535 035 E explore@ihophuntervalley.com.au ihophuntervalley.com.au Unique range of tours to suit all budgets and tastes; hop-on hop-off bus; progressive dinner night tours; masterclass tour; fly ‘n’ hop helicopter packages.

TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2017 and Hunter Region Business Excellence Awards finalist 2016.

Refer to website for tour operating days

#huntervalley WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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TOURS

SILVER SERVICE LIMOUSINES

SYDNEYDRIVER.COM

T 02 6571 1600 E admin@taxico.com.au

SYDNEY T 0408 987 788 E info@sydneydriver.com

taxico.com.au Silver Service Limousines provides transfer services and private wine tours by sedan, minibus or stretch limousine. Coordinators Derek and Dave have many years of experience as a cellar door manager and assistant winemaker, which ensures you have a unique tour every time you visit. Daily 24 hours

sydneydriver.com Sydney Driver is a private and personal door-todoor hire car and chauffeur service established 2004. Offering a high level of sophistication and service, with your own private first-class sedan or luxury minibus for a Hunter Valley day tour. Daily

TWO FAT BLOKES GOURMET TOURS M 0414 316 859 E info@twofatblokes.com.au

twofatblokes.com.au The Hunter Valley’s No. 1 tour operator – awarded a Certificate of Excellence for the past four years by TripAdvisor. Offering full- and half-day snapshot tours, or tailor a tour to suit your needs. Small groups only (2–10 guests). Daily (closed Good Friday, Xmas, Boxing & New Year’s Day)

VINEYARD SHUTTLE SERVICE

WINE D ROAD TOURS

ZEPHER TOURS

T 02 4991 3655 E tours@vineyardshuttle.com.au

T 0437 543 078 E dan@winedroadtours.com.au

154 REDFERN ST, REDFERN M 0406 757 295 E bookings@zephertours.com

vineyardshuttle.com.au Relax and enjoy the best the Hunter Valley has to offer in air-conditioned comfort with daily guided tours. Visit wineries of your choice or leave it up to Vineyard Shuttle Service to show you the highlights. Restaurant shuttle service, airport transfers and wedding guest transfers available.

Daily

winedroadtours.com.au Spend your day at hand-selected wineries being guided through their offerings in private tastings.

Travel in comfort stopping for a beautiful restaurant lunch, some Hunter Valley cheese tasting and finish with an optional beer tasting.

Limited to 11 guests to keep your tour personal.

Daily, bookings essential

zephertours.com.au Join the wine tour with a difference! Visit boutique wineries, sample locally made cheese and chocolate plus taste organic vodka, schnapps and gin. Public tours and private charters available with pick-ups from Sydney and the Hunter Valley. Tours run Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat & Sun

WHY DRIVE YOUR SELF ?

BOOK A TOUR OR TRANSFER ONLINE.

winecountry.com.au

112

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

iHop the Hunter Day & Night Tours!

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus – Customise your own Hunter Valley Tour experience, choosing from a timetable of 14 Stops and over 40 venues to visit – exploring at your own pace!

MasterCLASS the Hunter – Don’t just Taste - Learn and Create with this “Hands-On” Masterclass Tour as you discover and uncover Australia’s iconic wine region – the locals way!

Fly ‘n’ Hop – Get a birds eye view from the sky, and up close and personal on the ground exploring Pokolbin on a scenic air and land adventure!

Tour by Night – Savour the Hunter after dark on a culinary and educational adventure offering; Wine and Cheese Lovers Progressive Dinner or Beeries and Foodies Experience!

PH 0455 535 035 explore@ihophuntervalley.com.au www.ihophuntervalley.com.au

Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures Spectacular Hunter Valley and Wine Country Views Incredible Native Wildlife - Kangaroos HORSE RIDING - For the Beginner and Experienced Rider Sunset Rides - Picnic Rides - Personalised Rides Hens & Bucks Days - Corporate Groups Pony Rides through the trail Tractor Hay Rides to feed the animals Weddings on Horse Back Ride over 300 Magnificent acres Enjoy a Farm Stay - Peace & Tranquility STAY in Villas or Guest House Accommodation Just 3.88 ks from the Hunter Expressway 288 Talga Road, Lovedale, 2325 Phone: 0249307111 Email: ride@huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au Web: www.huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au

a total spa

experience... not just a

treatment Take time to rejuvenate at Golden Door Elysia Day Spa. Choose from our extensive range of spa, beauty and massage therapies.

All treatments include complimentary use of the Day Spa facilities including steam room, spa bath and relaxation lounge.

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL CALL 02 4993 8500 EMAIL SPA@ELYSIA.COM.AU VIEW SPA MENU GOLDENDOOR.COM.AU

Experiences.

ADDRESS

PHONE

PAGE

FREE WIFI

ENJOY A RANGE OF ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS.

MAP

Aqua Golf & Putt Putt

@ Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7896

117

MAP 1 J5

Diff-Rent Cycles

Shop 17, Hunter Valley Gardens Village, 2090, Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7191

N/A

N/A

NSW Segway Tours

@ Hunter Valley Resort, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

1300 465 636

N/A

MAP 1 F2

771 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7770

117

MAP 1 F2

Cessnock Racecourse

Racecourse Rd, Cessnock

02 4961 1573

N/A

MAP 1 R11

Hunter Valley Gardens

2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 4000

117

MAP 1 J5

Roche Estate

Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rds, Pokolbin

02 4998 4000

117

MAP 1 J6

NAME ACTIVITIES

ARTS � CRAFTS Pokolbin Gallery & Mistletoe Sculpture Garden

ATTRACTIONS

BALLOON FLIGHTS 1300 723 279

117

MAP 1 J9

1800 818 191

118

MAP 1 J9

Meeting @ Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens, 2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4991 7533

118

MAP 1 J6

Hunter Valley Wine, Cooking & Wine Theatre

@ Hunter Valley Resort, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7777

118

MAP 1 F2

Majors Lane Cooking School

64 Majors Ln, Lovedale

02 4930 7832

118

MAP 1 H12

The Cooking School

@ Estate Tuscany, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7288

118

MAP 1 F2

Cypress Lakes Golf & Country Club

@ Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort, 15 Thompsons Rd, Pokolbin

02 4993 1555

118

MAP1 K5

The Vintage Golf Club

Vintage Dr, Rothbury

02 4998 2610

118

MAP 1 H7

Chapman Valley Horse Riding

7054 Putty Rd, Howes Valley

02 6579 4593

N/A

MAP 1 I00

Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures

288 Talga Rd, Rothbury

02 4930 7111

118

MAP 1 F11

Australian Alpaca Barn

1946 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6669

119

MAP 1 J4

Come What May

@ Calais Estate, 151 Palmers Ln, Pokolbin

0400 747 072

119

MAP 1 I8

Handmade Hunter Markets

@ Kevin Sobels Wines, 5 Halls Rd, Pokolbin

02 4936 6726

N/A

MAP1 J8

Hunter Valley Christmas Shop

Shop 16, Hunter Valley Gardens Village, 2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6834

N/A

MAP 1 J5

Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village

2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 4000

119

MAP 1 J5

Lovedale Antiques Old Wares & Gallery

820 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 7239

119

MAP 1 G13

Mortels Sheepskin Factory

1 Weakleys Dr, Thornton

02 4966 0990

119

MAP 1 E15

Pokolbin General Store

@ Pokolbin Village, 2188 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7633

N/A

MAP 1 J6

Pokolbin Village

2188 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7670

119

MAP 1 J6

Wine Glass Gallery

Shop 3, Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6888

N/A

MAP 1 J5

Ye Olde General Store Pokolbin

Shop 17, Hunter Valley Gardens Village, 2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7191

N/A

MAP 1 J5

Bhutra Thai Massage

185 Wollombi Rd, Cessnock

02 4991 2630

120

MAP 2 B3

Château Élan Spa

Vintage Dr, Rothbury

02 4998 2500

120

MAP 1 H7

Golden Door Elysia, Spa

165 Thompsons Rd, Pokolbin

02 4993 8500

120

MAP 1 K4

Heavenly Hunter Massage Centre

@ Hunter Valley Resort, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

0438 010 359

N/A

MAP 1 F2

Soul Temple

Hunter Valley

0404 144 529

N/A

N/A

Spa Anise

@ Spicers Vineyards Estate, 555 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7229

120

MAP 1 D2

Balloon Aloft

Meeting @ Peterson House, Broke Rd, Pokolbin

Balloon Safaris Wine Country Ballooning

COOKING

GOLF

HORSERIDING ✓

SHOPPING

✓

SPAS ✓

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

115

HUNTER VALLEY HORSES

p!

U y Gidd

20% OFF! When you mention this advert*

Daily Sunrise Balloon Flight Adventures over the Hunter Valley.

on Flights Sunrise Ballo

All Flights conclude with a Champagne Breakfast

Exclusiv e Fligh ts Availa ble

To book your flight contact

1300 723 279 www.balloonaloft.com

* Discounts apply to full priced flight vouchers and gift vouchers only.

• Horseback Riding • Horse Drawn Carriage Wine Tours • Corporate Groups • Private Charters • Weddings • Romantic Tours

0431 337 367

www.huntervalleyhorses.com.au

EXPERIENCES

ACTIVITIES • ARTS � CRAFTS • ATTRACTIONS • BALLOON FLIGHTS

AQUA GOLF � PUTT PUTT @ HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS VILLAGE, BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

POKOLBIN GALLERY � MISTLETOE SCULPTURE GARDEN ��� HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

Hit golf balls into a beautiful lake and land them in the target net to win cash or vouchers to restaurants, cellar doors and activities. You can also challenge family and friends to 18 holes of mini golf on the picturesque putt putt course. Golf club hire is free.

Daily 9.30am–4.30pm

T 02 4998 7770 E sales@mistletoewines.com.au pokolbingallery.com.au Pokolbin Gallery and Mistletoe Sculpture Garden are located in the grounds of Mistletoe Winery. Unique collectable art, sculptures, internal and external, paintings in all media, photography, ceramics and exclusive handmade jewellery are all on exhibit and available for purchase. Daily 10am–6pm

HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS

ROCHE ESTATE

BALLOON ALOFT

���� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

CNR BROKE � MCDONALDS RDS, POKOLBIN

MEETING @ PETERSON HOUSE, BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7896 E aquagolf@golftothemax.com.au golftothemax.com.au

T 02 4998 4000 E welcome@hvg.com.au hvg.com.au Winner of NSW Best Tourist Attraction and inducted into the NSW Tourism Hall of Fame, Hunter Valley Gardens is exquisite. Explore 10 internationallythemed feature gardens over 60 acres, enjoy garden talks and annual family events such as the Christmas Lights Spectacular, or plan your perfect wedding.

Daily 9am–5pm (closed Dec 25)

T 02 4998 4000 rocheestate.com.au Roche Estate is a premier concert venue attracting international and national artists alike. Experience exceptional fine dining, award-winning wines, signature cocktails and spirits, local gourmet produce and a sophisticated function room all in one exclusive venue. Check with the individual businesses for trading hours

T 1300 723 279 E balloons@balloonaloft.com balloonaloft.com

Experience a balloon flight over the vineyards with award-winning Balloon Aloft, followed by gourmet breakfast and bubbles at Peterson House. The most experienced hot-air balloon operator in Australia has been offering daily sunrise flights for more than 35 years. Awarded TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence for the last five years. Daily

EXPLORE THE VALLEY WITH OUR MAP & TOURING GUIDE. PAGE 137

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

117

EXPERIENCES

BALLOON FLIGHTS • COOKING • GOLF • HORSERIDING

BALLOON SAFARIS

T 1800 818 191 E flights@balloonsafaris.com.au balloonsafaris.com.au Enjoy panoramic views of Wine Country from a Balloon Safaris hot-air balloon. This award-winning local operator uses local pilots with local knowledge and boasts a 100 per cent safety record. Features modern, colourful balloons, VIP and group flights, in-flight photos and optional gourmet breakfast.

Daily sunrise flights

WINE COUNTRY BALLOONING MEETING @ MERCURE RESORT HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS, ���� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4991 7533 E info@winecountryballooning.com.au winecountryballooning.com.au Keep it special! Fly with the Hunter Valley's original boutique balloon flight company, which guarantees no more than 10 people ballooning on any morning. Come fly with Daren, the region’s most experienced full-time local pilot. VIP flights, photos, videos and breakfast all available. Daily sunrise flights

HUNTER VALLEY WINE, COOKING & WINE THEATRE

MAJORS LANE COOKING SCHOOL

THE COOKING SCHOOL

@ HUNTER VALLEY RESORT, CNR HERMITAGE RD � MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

E majorslane@bigpond.com majorslane.com

E reservations@estatetuscany.com.au estatetuscany.com.au Cook up a storm with friends, family, work colleagues or a great idea for your hens party; book The Cooking School at Estate Tuscany. This hands-on cooking school is for groups of two people and upwards.

Brilliant fun, educational and team building.

By appointment

T 02 4998 7777 E events@hunterresort.com.au hunterresort.com.au Take part in a fun, hands-on class and learn a new skill, be it a daily two-hour wine or cooking school, candymaking class, craft beer-making tutorial or learn about the Hunter Valley wine heritage in our theatre.

Minimum numbers apply, bookings essential. Daily

CYPRESS LAKES GOLF � COUNTRY CLUB @ OAKS CYPRESS LAKES RESORT, 15 THOMPSONS RD, POKOLBIN T 02 4993 1555 E golfcypresslakes@

theoaksgroup.com.au oakshotels.com

Ranked among the top resort courses in Australia, Cypress Lakes has just had a multi-million dollar upgrade and is now arguably one of the finest courses in the Hunter Valley. Visitors are welcomed and will quickly feel like family at this social championship course. Daily 6am–dusk

118

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

�� MAJORS LN, LOVEDALE T 02 4930 7832

Have fun and be inspired by a hands-on, outdoor Asian cooking class on a beautiful vineyard. Learn how to balance the fundamental flavours of Asian cuisine as you prepare and enjoy a wonderful feast featuring Hunter Valley produce. Thai, Vietnamese, Indonesian and Sichuan classes available. Sat 10am–1pm, smoking and curing classes also available

THE VINTAGE GOLF CLUB VINTAGE DR, ROTHBURY

T 02 4998 2610 E golf@thevintage.com.au thevintage.com.au Tee off at the Hunter Valley’s prestigious Greg Norman-designed 18-hole championship golf course, which is ranked among the best in Australia and ideal for golfers of all levels. Facilities include a fully stocked golf shop, Spike Bar, Cafe and Grill.

Stay & Play packages available.

Daily from 7am

@ ESTATE TUSCANY, CNR HERMITAGE RD � MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 7288

HUNTER VALLEY HORSE RIDING � ADVENTURES

��� TALGA RD, LOVEDALE T 02 4930 7111 E ride@huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au Spectacular Valley views, riding beautiful horses over 300 acres on the Molly Morgan Range. Trail rides, pony rides through the trail or undercover, romantic picnic rides, sunset rides. Weddings on horseback, tractor hay rides, feeding the animals, night/day kangaroo spotting, accommodation. Daily 8am–sunset

EXPERIENCES SHOPPING

AUSTRALIAN ALPACA BARN

COME WHAT MAY

���� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

@ CALAIS ESTATE, ��� PALMERS LN, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 6669 E sales@australianalpaca.com australianalpaca.com The Australian Alpaca Barn specialises in quality Australian alpaca fashion, homewares and accessories.

Discover the luxury, the softness and the lightness of alpaca by visiting the Australian Alpaca Barn at Peppers Creek Village or the new outlet in the Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village.

Daily 10am–5pm

LOVEDALE ANTIQUES OLD WARES � GALLERY ��� LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

T 02 4930 7239 E lovedaleantiques@bigpond.com Lovedale Antiques Old Wares & Gallery is an antique store with a difference. It has that ‘wow’ factor with plenty of genuine, unusual and interesting antiques, together with many collectables and artworks. Visit this collector's paradise for a glimpse into the past. Fri–Sun (and some public holidays) 10am­–3pm

M 0400 747 072 E info@comewhatmay.com.au comewhatmay.com.au Located on Calais Estate, this homewares and gift shop combines vintage treasures, unique modern pieces and handmade specialties. The collection has many unusual and unique items that help make your house a home, ranging from locally made soaps to unique furniture. Thu–Sun 10am–5pm or by appointment

HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS SHOPPING VILLAGE ���� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 4000 E welcome@hvg.com.au hvg.com.au Located next to the Gardens in the heart of Pokolbin, the Village features boutique shops, restaurants, essential services such as a pharmacy and more. Visit the Aqua Golf driving range or enjoy the BBQ facilities and children’s playground. Daily 10am–5pm (check individual store trading hours)

MORTELS SHEEPSKIN FACTORY

POKOLBIN VILLAGE

1 WEAKLEYS DR, THORNTON

���� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

The Mortel family has been making sheepskin products since 1958. Watch and learn how their UGG boots are made on a guided factory tour weekdays at 11am. Enjoy shopping, meals at the cafe or browse The Sheep’s Back Museum. Take a selfie with The Big UGG Boots.

Mon–Fri 8.30am–5pm, Sat–Sun 9am–2pm

The Pokolbin Village complex in the heart of Wine Country has something for everyone. Explore the range of specialty stores selling chocolate, cheese, homewares and jewellery, or enjoy relaxed dining at the restaurant and general store. Self-contained and hotel-style accommodation is available.

Daily, breakfast from 8am, shopping from 10am

T 02 4966 0990 E allaboutsheepskins@mortels.com.au mortels.com.au

DISCOVER OF THE

T 02 4998 7670 E relax@pokolbinvillage.com.au pokolbinvillage.com.au

THE SECRETS

HUNTER VALLEY.

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EXPERIENCES SPAS

BHUTRA THAI MASSAGE ��� WOLLOMBI RD, CESSNOCK

T 02 4991 2630 E cessnock@thaimassagespa.com.au cessnock.thaimassagespa.com.au Feel your body relax and your thoughts drift away at this Thai massage spa, only a few minutes from Wine Country. Customised services for your romantic spa getaway, honeymoon, anniversary or just relieve muscle tension from your travels. This treatment is for you. Daily 9am–9pm

CHÂTEAU ÉLAN SPA VINTAGE DR, ROTHBURY

T 02 4998 2500 E enquiries@chateauelan.com.au chateauelan.com.au Relaxation, rejuvenation, recuperation – whatever your reason for visiting the Spa at Château Élan Hunter Valley, it’s dedicated to your peace of mind and physical wellbeing. The Spa has highly trained staff and a large range of indulgent treatments and products to cater to your needs. Daily 9am–6pm

GOLDEN DOOR ELYSIA, SPA

SPA ANISE

��� THOMPSONS RD, POKOLBIN

@ SPICERS VINEYARDS ESTATE, ��� HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN T 02 6574 7229 E reception.vineyards@

T 02 4993 8500 E spa@elysia.com.au goldendoor.com.au Have a spa experience, not just a treatment. Elysia Day Spa is a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation within Australia’s largest health retreat. Offering more than 50 beauty or massage therapies with Divine Organics or Babor Cosmeceuticals. Enjoy access to relaxation lounges, steam room and spa bath during your visit.

Daily 9am–6pm

spicersretreats.com spicersretreats.com Spa Anise is located at leading Hunter Valley retreat, Spicers Vineyards Estate, and offers intimate spa experiences in relaxed luxury. Matching breathtaking Australian-made Waterlily products with indulgent treatments carried out by highly experienced therapists, Spa Anise is home to your own private spa experience. Daily 10am–6pm

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REJUVENATE...

REVIVE.

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Rustic Mediterranean inspired cuisine in a relaxed, friendly environment.

Open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday.

Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin 02 4998 7584 • www.the-cellar-restaurant.com.au

Visit: 293 Deasys Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 l Call: 02 4998 7781 Online: mistyglen.com.au l Cellar Door: Friday to Monday 10am - 5pm 3 Bedroom Self Contained Cottage l Pet Friendly

TASTE - PLAY - STAY

Accommodation.

430 Wine Country Dr, Lovedale

Estate Tuscany

Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

Grand Mercure The Vintage

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02 4998 2500

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02 4998 6990

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1023 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

FUNCTION AREA

112 Halls Rd, Pokolbin

Casuarina Estate

FREE WIFI

Carriages Boutique Hotel & Vineyard

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Vintage Dr, Rothbury

02 4998 2222

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Harrigan’s Irish Pub & Accommodation

Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 4300

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Hermitage Lodge

609 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7639

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Hunter Valley Resort

Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7777

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Kirkton Park Hunter Valley

336 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7680

Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort

15 Thompsons Rd, Pokolbin

02 4993 1555

Pokolbin Village

2188 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7670

Amelies on Pokolbin Mountain

338 Pokolbin Mountains Rd, Pokolbin

Avoca House & Cottage Accommodation

2683 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi

Blackwattle Luxury Retreats

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0413 813 399

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0404 032 303

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169 Talga Rd, Lovedale

0421 419 371

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Bluebush Estate

196 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 7177

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Broken View Estate

547 Old North Rd, Pokolbin

0400 112 341

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Cam-Way Estate

81 Campbells Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7655

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Casa La Vina

657 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

0406 770 294

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Cedar Creek Cottages

1840 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi

02 4998 1576

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60 Mitchells Rd, Mount View

02 4990 9009

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1329 Mount View Rd, Mount View

02 4990 8989

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Crosswood Estate

120 Old North Rd, Pokolbin

0418 649 554

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Dandaloo Cottages

70 Green Ln, Lovedale

0419 200 017

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Degen Estate and Cottages

349 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin

0477 010 010

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Deja Vu Estate

280 Old North Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7178

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Eighth Hole Rest

33 Cessnock Rd, Branxton

0421 907 323

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Englewood Ridge

65 Talga Rd, Lovedale

0417 287 345

$

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Gypsy Willows Wollombi

201 Narone Creek Rd, Wollombi

02 4998 3404

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Hill Top Country Guest House

288 Talga Rd, Rothbury

02 4930 7111

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Hunter Valley Lodge & Retreat

188 Lomas Ln, Nulkaba

0488 881 100

$$$

Hunter Valley Stays

Hunter Valley

0477 010 010

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Lillians on Lovedale

356 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4990 6958

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Lovedale Cottages

77 Brickmans Ln, Lovedale

0409 246 661

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Lovedale Lodge

197 Londons Rd, Lovedale

02 4384 3394

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Midnight’s Promise Estate

300 Talga Rd, Lovedale

02 9235 3947

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Nirvana Vista Resort

Lot 3 Sweetwater Rd, Rothbury

0409 461 711

$$$

Old Hillside Homestead

493 Marrowbone Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7504

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Red Tractor Retreat

65 Wollombi St, Pokolbin

02 4998 6961

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RidgeView Cottages

273 Sweetwater Rd, Pokolbin

0419 475 221

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Rothvale Vineyard Cottages

223 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7290

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Serenity Grove

556 Milbrodale Rd, Broke

02 6579 1444

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ADDRESS

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Tatler Wines

477 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 9139

$$$

Tellace Wines Accommodation

356 Tuckers Ln, North Rothbury

02 4938 7173

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The Grange on Hermitage

820 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7388

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Tinonee Vineyard Estate

1273 Milbrodale Rd, Broke

0488 127 321

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96 Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

0488 881 100

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136 Thompsons Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7630

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168 Lomas Ln, Lovedale

02 4991 2874

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555 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7229

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Hunter Valley Retreat

626 Sandy Creek Rd, Quorrobolong

02 4998 6007

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Wine Country Motor Inn

5 Darwin St, Cessnock

02 4993 2999

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1800 649 156

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THE LUXURY OF MANY A C C O M M O D A T I O N O P T I O N S, WITH THE CONVENIENCE OF O N L I N E B O O K I N G.

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820 HERMITAGE ROAD, POKOLBIN 2320 T: 02 4998 7388 E: stay@thegrangeonhermitage.com.au W: www.thegrangeonhermitage.com.au

Affordable country style self catering cottages & guestrooms situated on 28 acres of natural bush and our family vineyard.

Enjoy the peace and tranquility of Hunter Wine Country, by relaxing on the verandah, watching kangaroos at dusk or wandering through our vineyard, accompanied by Zena, our friendly Black Labrador.

Our property is situated within minutes from a wide range of wineries, restaurants, gardens, golf courses and other attractions.

Gartelmann Wines is one of the Hunter Valley’s most respected winemakers. Established in 1996 the winery produces award winning wines from the best wine growing regions in New South Wales. www.gartelmann.com.au

ACCOMMODATION RESORTS/HOTELS

CARRIAGES BOUTIQUE HOTEL � VINEYARD ��� HALLS RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7591 E stay@thecarriages.com.au thecarriages.com.au Meander down a pretty lane to the peace and quiet of the Carriages. Ten luxury suites feature crisp white sheets, goose-down duvets and log fires. The saltwater swimming pool, tennis court and accommodation are set in an expansive lawned garden. Breakfast included.

CROWNE PLAZA HUNTER VALLEY 430 WINE COUNTRY DR, LOVEDALE

T 02 4991 0000 E reservations.hunter@ihg.com crowneplazahuntervalley.com.au Surrounded by picturesque vineyards and golf course greens, and framed by the rugged Brokenback Range, Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley epitomises the best in award-winning hospitality and deluxe accommodation, including one-, two- and three-bedroom villas and a range of onsite facilities for you to enjoy.

CASUARINA ESTATE

CHÂTEAU ÉLAN AT THE VINTAGE

1023 HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

VINTAGE DR, ROTHBURY

Located in the heart of the Hunter Valley wine region, Casuarina Estate is an iconic and beautiful property featuring fine dining, themed suites and private cottages. Casuarina Estate Restaurant & Cafe has been a Pokolbin favourite for decades, where you can enjoy flambé mains, classic desserts and some entrees prepared tableside.

Inducted into the NSW Tourism Hall of Fame for luxury accommodation, Chateau Élan features 100 stunning rooms, with outlooks over the fairways of the championship golf course and mountain range.

Guests can also enjoy the state-of-the-art Spa facility and adjoining Salon, or unwind at the decadent Whiskey Bar 1820.

ESTATE TUSCANY

GRAND MERCURE THE VINTAGE

CNR HERMITAGE RD � MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

VINTAGE DR, ROTHBURY

T 02 4998 6990 E dining@casuarinaestate.com.au casuarinaestate.com.au

T 02 4998 7288 E reservations@estatetuscany.com.au estatetuscany.com.au This award-winning, four-star boutique hotel is set on 26 acres with a stunning backdrop of the Brokenback Range and vineyards. It features 38 rooms, a tennis court, a swimming pool and a massage therapist, as well as Thomas Wines Cellar Door, the acclaimed Binnorie Dairy, Mill Restaurant and Brokenback Bar.

HOW AN EXQUISITE VINEYARD LUNCH LED TO A FRESH TASTE FOR SUCCESS IN THE OFFICE.

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T 02 4998 2500 E reservations@chateauelan.com.au chateauelan.com.au

T 02 4998 2222 E reservations@grandmercurethevintage.com.au grandmercurehuntervalley.com.au Grand Mercure The Vintage offers resort-style living with spacious one- and two-bedroom luxury apartments clustered around a sparkling swimming pool. Facilities within The Vintage precinct include an award-winning restaurant, spa, BBQ area and Greg Norman-designed 18-hole championship golf course.

ACCOMMODATION RESORTS/HOTELS • SELF-CONTAINED

HARRIGAN’S IRISH PUB � ACCOMMODATION

HERMITAGE LODGE

HUNTER VALLEY RESORT

��� MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

CNR HERMITAGE RD � MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

Set on 25 acres, the award-winning Hermitage Lodge is nestled in the centre of the vineyards, within easy walking distance of many wineries and tourist attractions. It also has an award-winning restaurant, Il Cacciatore, which is open seven nights and serves Northern Italian-inspired cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.

Everything you love about the Hunter Valley at one resort. Featuring four-star accommodation as well as Matilda Bay Brewhouse + Dining, La Glace Dessert Bar, wine, cooking and candy schools, cellar door/winery, wine theatre, massage centre, horseriding and Segway and carriage tours, all nestled within 40-year-old vineyards.

OAKS CYPRESS LAKES RESORT

BROKEN VIEW ESTATE

15 THOMPSONS RD, POKOLBIN

��� OLD NORTH RD, POKOLBIN

Your home among the cellar doors. Large villas complemented by exceptional resort facilities and the region’s iconic golf course. Best location to visit the wineries and Hunter Valley Gardens next door.

Above all, it’s the Cypress Lakes friendly staff who will make your stay.

Looking for the perfect place to recharge, rekindle, rediscover and relax? The ★★★★ AAA-rated villas at Broken View Estate combine privacy, luxury and romance with king-sized beds, two-person spa baths and open fires, overlooking the expansive dam to the picturesque Brokenback Range.

CAM-WAY ESTATE

CASA LA VINA

CEDAR CREEK COTTAGES

81 CAMPBELLS LN, POKOLBIN

��� MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

M 0406 770 294 E stay@casalavina.com.au casalavina.com.au

T 02 4998 1576 E relax@cedarcreekcottages.com.au cedarcreekcottages.com.au

Featuring suites, one-bedroom villas, two-, threeand four-bedroom cottages set on 60 tranquil acres in the very heart of central Pokolbin, all connected to town water. Walk to vineyards, restaurants, Hunter Valley Gardens and the concert venues at Hope and Roche Estates. Pool, tennis court, guest laundry, conference centre and outdoor fire pits.

Luxury, unique private villas for that intimate special occasion. An adults’ escape in the heart of the Hunter Valley. Three Santa Fe-inspired adobe villas boast exposed log timber ceilings, gas log fireplaces, air-conditioning, plush king-sized beds, private outdoor jacuzzis in a courtyard and covered parking.

AAA ★★★★ rating.

Picturesque self-contained cottages overlooking vineyards in beautiful Wollombi Valley – for two, four, six or more. Relax and enjoy bushwalks, bird-watching and a taste of Stonehurst premium wines at the sandstone cellar door. Includes spa bath, log fire, BBQ, breakfast hamper and noon check-out.

BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 4300 E enquiries@harrigans.com.au harrigans.com.au Harrigan’s offers studio, one-, two- and threebedroom apartments with hotel facilities including a pool and conferencing facilities. It is the perfect venue for business or pleasure, close to Hunter Valley Gardens, Roche Estate and Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, including aqua golf, a picnic area and playground.

KIRKTON PARK HUNTER VALLEY ��� OAKEY CREEK RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7680 E reservations.kirktonpark@ihg.com kirktonparkhuntervalley.com.au Combining classic country heritage character with contemporary elegance, an all-new luxury accommodation and dining experience awaits. Set on 70 acres with stunning views, the refurbished Kirkton Park is the epitome of quintessential Hunter Valley style from the guest rooms to the new Locavore Dining and Epoche Lounge Bar.

M 02 4998 7655 E stay@camwayestate.com.au camwayestate.com.au

T 02 4998 7639 E info@hermitagelodge.com.au hermitagelodge.com.au

T 02 4993 1555 E cypresslakes@theoaksgroup.com.au oakshotels.com

T 02 4998 7777 E stay@hunterresort.com.au hunterresort.com.au

M 0400 112 341 E info@brokenviewestate.com.au brokenviewestate.com.au

���� WOLLOMBI RD, WOLLOMBI

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ACCOMMODATION SELF-CONTAINED

CEDARS MOUNT VIEW

COTTAGES ON MOUNT VIEW

CROSSWOOD ESTATE

�� MITCHELLS RD, MOUNT VIEW

T 02 4990 9009 E relax@cedars.com.au cedars.com.au

���� MOUNT VIEW RD, MOUNT VIEW

T 02 4990 8989 E stay@cottagesonmountview.com.au cottagesonmountview.com.au

120 OLD NORTH RD, POKOLBIN

Designed specially for couples celebrating a special occasion, these fully equipped, modern spa villas are scattered over a beautiful mountain valley with a meandering creek. Cedars offers unparalleled privacy, gas log fires, expansive views, WiFi, flatscreen satellite TVs, personalised itineraries and in-house romance packages.

Expect wallabies, birdsong, peace and quiet at this tranquil retreat. The deluxe spa cottages sleep up to six and feature your own private open-air spa, wood fire, fully equipped kitchen and hammock under the gumtrees where you can drift away.

AAA ★★★★ rating.

Crosswood Estate is located on the Old North Road ridge off Hermitage Road. It produces eclectic varieties such as Tannat, Fiano and Chambourcin, along with traditional Hunter Shiraz. A stunning, two-bedroom loft apartment is available for escapes with private dining/BBQs in the landscaped grounds of the cellar door.

DEGEN ESTATE AND COTTAGES

EIGHTH HOLE REST

349 DEASYS RD, POKOLBIN

33 CESSNOCK RD, BRANXTON

HILL TOP COUNTRY GUEST HOUSE

Luxury at its best! This 54-acre vineyard estate offers exceptional accommodation for up to 20 guests with stunning 360 degree views and onsite cellar door.

Moments away from the best the Valley has to offer.

Popular for executive conferences, training workshops, yoga retreats, and for weddings/special events designed by Hunter Concierge.

Newly renovated early Australian cottage directly backing on to Branxton Golf Course with lovely views over the eighth green. House features polished floorboards, leather couches, a great deck overlooking the golf course, air-conditioning and combustion fireplace. Just 10 minutes’ drive to Wine Country wineries and restaurants.

HUNTER VALLEY LODGE & RETREAT

LILLIANS ON LOVEDALE

LOVEDALE COTTAGES

��� LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

�� BRICKMANS LN, LOVEDALE

Minutes from wineries and restaurants, this very private, generously proportioned, elegantly furnished country house is set on 25 acres and caters for four. It has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a large spa, A/C, open fire, hooded BBQ, full kitchen, breakfast provisions and TV/DVD/CD. It’s a supremely relaxing house... go on, you deserve it.

Private one-, two- or three-bedroom self-contained, log fire and spa cottages, walking distance from wineries and restaurants. Free tennis, WiFi, mini-golf, heated indoor pool and golf course.

Perfect romantic escape for two or can cater for up to 34 guests.

T 0477 010 010 E mail@degenwines.com.au

188 LOMAS LN, NULKABA

T 0488 881 100 E info@huntervalleylodge.com.au huntervalleylodge.com.au The magnificent lodge is set on five beautiful acres and boasts 10 spacious bedrooms and seven bathrooms. With a swimming pool, mineral jacuzzi, games room, a bocce court and huge entertainment deck with stunning views, the property can accommodate 16-32 guests. It’s the perfect solution for large groups or conferences.

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T 0421 907 323 E rodheard77@gmail.com eighthholerest.com

T 02 4990 6958 E info@lillians.com.au lillians.com.au

T 0418 649 554 E greg@marketownmedia.com

288 TALGA RD, LOVEDALE

T 02 4930 7111 E stay@hilltopguesthouse.com.au hilltopguesthouse.com.au Peace and tranquillity on 300 acres with spectacular Hunter Valley views. The Guest House has seven double rooms, The Villas for couples and families.

Onsite activities: farm stay, horseriding, pony rides through trail or undercover, tractor hay rides, feeding animals, hiking, day/night kangaroo spotting and weddings on horseback.

M 0409 246 661 E relax@lovedalecottages.com.au lovedalecottages.com.au

ACCOMMODATION SELF-CONTAINED

RIDGEVIEW COTTAGES

ROTHVALE VINEYARD COTTAGES

TATLER WINES

��� SWEETWATER RD, POKOLBIN

��� DEASYS RD, POKOLBIN

��� LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

Beautifully furnished country cottages in a secluded setting among vineyards and bushland. Features include spa bath, double shower, log fire, A/C, full kitchen, covered parking, private undercover BBQ area, jacuzzi, sauna, infinity-edge swimming pool and tennis court – plus on-site cellar door and restaurant.

Stay on a 75-acre working vineyard complete with winery and cellar door. One-, two- and three-bedroom rustic, self-contained country cottages offer all you need for a comfortable getaway. Enjoy fires in winter.

Cook a barbecue or taste wines with father-and-son team Luke and Max all year round.

Offering luxury accommodation for up to 14 on a working vineyard. Choose between the contemporary loft apartment or Tatler Lodge, and enjoy a complimentary bottle of Tatler wine while watching the sun set over the majestic Brokenback Range or cuddling up by the fire.

TELLACE WINES ACCOMMODATION

THE GRANGE ON HERMITAGE

TINONEE VINEYARD ESTATE

��� HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

1273 MILBRODALE RD, BROKE

Quality affordable country accommodation on a 28-acre property, with a family-run vineyard. Offering guestrooms and two-bedroom cottages with complimentary breakfast hamper, ensuites, equipped kitchens, disability facilities, king- and queen-sized beds, spa, A/C, log fire and WiFi. Close to wineries, restaurants and other attractions.

Tinonee Vineyard Estate is a private working vineyard on a 50-acre parcel of land. The Residence, an expansive homestead built in 1930, and The Dairy, originally a milking shed, have been elegantly furnished providing a luxurious setting to stay among the vines.

M 0419 475 221 E sleep@ridgeview.com.au ridgeview.com.au

��� TUCKERS LN, NORTH ROTHBURY

T 02 4938 7173 E info@tellace.com.au Watch kangaroos at play and take in the fabulous views across the vineyard from this modern three-bedroom, self-contained homestead, just a short walk from the Tellace Wines cellar door. It’s a tranquil spot with all the activities and attractions just a 10-minute drive away.

T 02 4998 7290 E wines@rothvale.com.au rothvale.com.au

T 02 4998 7388 E stay@thegrangeonhermitage.com.au thegrangeonhermitage.com.au

T 02 4930 9139 E sales@tatlerwines.com tatlerwines.com

T 0488 127 321 E tinoneevineyardestate@gmail.com tinonee-vineyardestate.squarespace.com/

DID YOU KNOW? The Hunter Valley was named after John Hunter, an officer of the Royal Navy and second governor of New South Wales.

WILLOW TREE ESTATE 96 MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

T 0488 881 100 E info@willowtreeestate.com.au willowtreeestate.com.au An elegant, luxurious large self-contained estate on seven stunning acres boasting 12 generous, well-appointed bedrooms with 11 bathrooms. Willow Tree Estate has some of the most magnificent views in the Valley over the surrounding vineyards, and can accommodate 20-40 guests in style. Perfect for large groups and conferences.

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ACCOMMODATION SELF-CONTAINED • GUESTHOUSES • MOTELS

WINE COUNTRY VILLAS

WIRRAL GRANGE COTTAGE

��� THOMPSONS RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7630 E info@winecountryvillas.com.au winecountryvillas.com.au

��� LOMAS LN, LOVEDALE

T 02 4991 2874 E carol@lioncrest.com.au wirralgrange.com.au

��� HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN T 02 6574 7229 E reception.vineyards@spicersretreats.com spicersretreats.com/spicers-vineyards-estate

Escape to your haven in the Hunter. With eight stylish split-level villas overlooking 25 acres of lush Aussie bush, Wine Country Villas is the ideal spot to chill out. Each villa has a king-sized bed, full kitchen, generous breakfast basket, coffee maker, deck with BBQ and views.

This delightful three-bedroom cottage is set in the centre of a working vineyard and farm in the heart of Hunter Valley Wine Country, and features a fully equipped kitchen, log fire, A/C, pool and BBQ. Breakfast provisions and complimentary bottle of wine included. Pets welcome.

Intimate escape, special celebration or gourmet indulgence – whatever your reason, Spicers has all the ingredients for the perfect Wine Country getaway. All 12 guestrooms offer an open fire and spa ensuite, and access to the property's outdoor pool, spa, games area, day spa and Restaurant Botanica.

HUNTER VALLEY RETREAT

WINE COUNTRY MOTOR INN

��� SANDY CREEK RD, QUORROBOLONG

� DARWIN ST, CESSNOCK

INGENIA HOLIDAYS HUNTER VALLEY

Awarded 2014 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence.

Situated on 200 acres of bushland at the foot of the Watagan Mountains, ideal for a weekend away, family gathering, wedding or conference. Friendly team, relaxed environment. Accommodates 140 people in garden studios through to six-bedroom villas.

Conference room seats 180 guests.

Located in the centre of the Cessnock CBD, Wine Country Motor Inn is only 10 minutes’ drive from Hunter Valley Gardens and all of the other major attractions. It has 50 rooms on two floors offering a range of room types in a 100 per cent non-smoking environment, with free WiFi and parking.

T 02 4998 6007 E info@huntervalleyretreat.com.au huntervalleyretreat.com.au

T 02 4993 2999 E stay@winecountrymotorinn.com.au winecountrymotorinn.com.au

SPICERS VINEYARDS ESTATE

137 MOUNT VIEW RD, CESSNOCK

M 1800 649 156 E huntervalley@ingeniaholidays.com.au ingeniaholidays.com.au/huntervalley With a variety of accommodation types, from three-bedroom villas to budget-style accommodation, as well as powered caravan and camp sites, this is the perfect location for a Hunter Valley getaway. Park facilities include a jumping cushion, camp kitchen, barbecues as well as a wood-fired pizza oven.

BOOK YOUR ACCO M M O DAT I O N O N L I N E.

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ARTISAN WINES ~ OLIVES ~ GUESTHOUSE

Cellar Door - Vineyard - Picnic and Barbecue area / facilities Sample our superb wines Group and mini bus bookings are welcome Cellar Door open 6 days a week,10am to 5pm. Closed Tuesdays.

WOLLOMBI

WINES

Lower Hunter Valley

Wollombi Road, Wollombi M: 0408410772 E: orders@wollombiwines.com.au

www.wollombiwines.com.au Hunter Valley Christmas Shop

OPEN FOR SALES & TASTINGS

7 Days, 10am - 5pm 1686 Broke Road, POKOLBIN Ph (02) 4998 6737 info@hunterdistillery.com.au www.hunterdistillery.com.au

Open 7 Days, 10am to 5pm Hunter Valley Gardens Village Shops.

Broke Road, Pokolbin, NSW Ph 02 4998 6834. www.hvchristmasshop.com.au

Weddings.

VENUES AND SERVICES FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY. a thousand words, to celebrants who will craft a ceremony just for you, Wine Country has them all. You will also find myriad hair and beauty consultants who will pamper you from top to toe and ensure you look your best on the big day, entertainment to get the party started, specialists in theming for a unique wedding, head-turning transport options, luxurious lodgings for your friends and family, and the perfect honeymoon options to begin your new life together.

NAME

ADDRESS

PHONE

PAGE

Serene beauty, breathtaking views… there’s no setting more romantic to begin your married life than the spectacular Hunter Valley.

Whether you’re imagining an intimate event tucked away from the madding crowds or a large gala celebration, the Hunter Valley can confidently meet all of your expectations – no matter your tastes.

From distinctive venues to hold your ceremony or reception, an award-winning photographer who will produce a picture that is worth

MAP

Beveridge’s Menswear

88 Vincent St, Cessnock

02 4990 1310

N/A

MAP 2 D4

Estate Tuscany

Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7288

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MAP 1 F2

Fuse Gallery Hair. Skin. Body

89 Vincent St, Cessnock

02 4991 4247

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MAP 2 C3 MAP 1 F2

Hunter Valley Resort

Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7777

134

Jason Thomas Marriage Celebrant

Small Winemakers Centre, Suite 5, 426 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

0409 337 000

N/A

MAP 1 J6

Lovedale Wedding Chapel & Reception

842 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

0447 923 888

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MAP 1 G13

Margan Winery & Restaurant

1238 Milbrodale Rd, Broke

02 6579 1372

134

MAP 1 I0

Marsha Koster Makeup

Hunter Valley

0450 296 691

N/A

N/A

Photography on Hermitage

Hunter Valley

0413 805 222

N/A

MAP 1 B9

Prestige Wedding & Event Hire

13 Ace Cres, Tuggerah

02 4353 4599

134

N/A

Restaurant Cuvée

@ Peterson House, Cnr Broke Rd & Wine Country Dr, Pokolbin

02 4998 7881

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MAP 1 J9

Spark Ceremonies Hunter Valley

18 Casuarina Dr, Rothbury

0429 354 177

N/A

MAP 1 H7

St Michael’s Wollombi

2887 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi

0417 436 279

N/A

MAP 1 S2

Tamburlaine Organic Wines

358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 4217

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MAP 1 K6

The Verandah Restaurant

@ Calais Estate, 151 Palmers Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7231

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MAP 1 I8

E X P E R I E N C E A DAY YO U W I L L A LWAYS R E M E M B E R I N A P L A C E YO U W I L L N E V E R F O R G E T.

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WEDDINGS

ESTATE TUSCANY CNR HERMITAGE RD & MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

FUSE GALLERY HAIR. SKIN. BODY

Wedding Caterer of the Year, Tuscany is the perfect venue that has it all – accommodation, pre-wedding events, ceremony, reception and after party, with vineyard and mountain views as your majestic backdrop – be it winter with the stark rustic beauty or the flourishing lush green hues of summer.

Daily, by appointment

E info@fusegallery.com.au fusegallery.com.au 5000 brides can’t be wrong... The Hunter Valley’s leading and most contemporary salon in hair, skin and body is located in the Cessnock CBD, just five minutes from Pokolbin. The large salon boasts cutting-edge technology and facilities.

Mon, Wed & Fri 9am–5.30pm, Tue 9am–7pm, Thu 9am–8pm, Sat 8am–2pm

T 02 4998 7288 E reservations@estatetuscany.com.au estatetuscany.com.au

LOVEDALE WEDDING CHAPEL & RECEPTION 842 LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

T 0447 923 888 E lovedaleweddings@gmail.com lovedaleweddingchapel.com.au Lovedale Wedding Chapel & Reception is situated on a private estate offering an all-in-one wedding venue with the chapel, which seats 108 guests, the reception centre seating up to 120 guests, and cottage accommodation set within a parkland setting with spectacular views. Daily, by appointment

�� VINCENT ST, CESSNOCK T 02 4991 4247

MARGAN WINERY & RESTAURANT 1238 MILBRODALE RD, BROKE

T 02 6579 1372 E cellardoor@margan.com.au margan.com.au Margan offers a unique wedding destination for the discerning couple who appreciates quality food, great wine and friendly service with a dash of the all-important 'wow factor'! Awarded Australian Tourism Awards Best Restaurant, NSW Best Winery and One Chef’s Hat SMH GFG. Daily, by appointment

HUNTER VALLEY RESORT CNR HERMITAGE RD � MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7777 E events@hunterresort.com.au hunterresort.com.au Hunter Valley Resort caters for small and intimate weddings, and for occasions of up to 250 guests.

Most importantly, the management and staff recognise this is your special day and aim to make it nothing short of perfect. Call for a tailored proposal

PRESTIGE WEDDING � EVENT HIRE �� ACE CRES, TUGGERAH

T 02 4353 4599 E mp@prestigepartyhire.com.au prestigepartyhire.com.au Prestige prides itself on hiring quality equipment and providing excellent personal service. It offers AV, exhibition/trade booths, marquees, lighting, dance floors, furniture, coolrooms and more. With many years of expertise, Prestige can ensure your event is a success. Mon–Fri 8.30am–5pm, Sat 8.30am–12pm

RESTAURANT CUVÉE

TAMBURLAINE ORGANIC WINES

THE VERANDAH RESTAURANT

@ PETERSON HOUSE, CNR BROKE RD & WINE COUNTRY DR, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 7881 E cuvee@

358 MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

@ CALAIS ESTATE, 151 PALMERS LN, POKOLBIN

petersonhouse.com.au petersonhouse.com.au An award-winning wedding venue beautifully crafted from sandstone with sweeping vineyard views provides an ideal backdrop for your reception. Whether it’s a small, intimate wedding or a larger wedding of 140, Restaurant Cuvée can tailor a package that will suit any dream. Marquee weddings also available. Daily, evenings

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T 02 4998 4217 E weddings@tamburlaine.com.au tamburlaine.com.au A hidden Hunter Valley treasure, located on a privately owned vineyard, Tamburlaine Organic Wines offers the perfect venue for your dream wedding. Whether it’s a simple celebration or a lavish affair, every wedding is unique and Tamburlaine will work with you to design the best day possible.

Daily, by appointment

T 02 4998 7231 E bookings@verandahrestaurant.com.au verandahrestaurant.com.au The charming colonial buildings, stunning landscaped grounds and sweeping verandahs provide a stunning setting for your wedding. Catering for intimate weddings of 30 guests to grand weddings of 250 guests.

Select one of the packages or let the team tailor something for your special day.

Daily, by appointment

CELEBRATE

long Sunday lunches

the perfect wine country dining experience executive chef jean-marc pollet has created a menu driven by the fusion of classic french cuisine with local, seasonal australian produce including produce from his privately owned farm.

open 7 days for café lunch and à la carte dinner

SUNDAY L UN C H F R O M 12P M T O 3P M Enjoy a relaxed lunch every Sunday from 12pm to 3pm at Restaurant Botanica at Spicers Vineyards Estate.

With live music all afternoon and the vineyard just outside, it’s the perfect way to spend a long, lazy Sunday afternoon.

Book on 6574 7229 or visit spicersretreats.com 555 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

corner broke and mcdonalds roads, pokolbin, hunter valley reservations ph 4998 2000

A little birdie told me ...

.... it ’s magic!

Lunch: Thursday - Monday Dinner: Friday - Saturday Open for group bookings by special arrangement Tel: (02) 4990 9553 www.bistromolines.com.au

Services.

ESSENTIALS TO COVER ALL YOUR NEEDS.

NAME

ADDRESS

PHONE

Airport – Newcastle

1 Williamtown Dr, Williamtown

02 4928 9800

Bespoke Hunter

Hunter Valley

0418 148 283

N/A

Council – Cessnock

62–78 Vincent St, Cessnock

02 4993 4300

MAP 2 C4

Council – Singleton

Cnr Queen St & Civic Ave, Singleton

02 6578 7290

MAP 4 A4

EMERGENCY – Ambulance, Fire & Police

MAP N/A

000

N/A N/A

Everest Team Events

Hunter Valley

1300 434 512

H Events

Unit 5, 522-524 High St, Maitland

02 4934 8138

N/A

HOSPITAL – Cessnock

View St, Cessnock

02 4991 0555

MAP 2 A1

HOSPITAL – Singleton

Dangar Rd, Singleton

02 6571 9222

MAP 4 C5

Hunter Valley Events

Hunter Valley

02 4933 5400

N/A

Mai-Wel Limited

115A South St, Telarah

02 4932 8599

N/A

Newspaper – The Advertiser

155 Vincent St, Cessnock

02 4990 1244

MAP 2 D3

Pharmacy – Pokolbin Village Pharmacy

Shop 13, Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6677

MAP 1 J5

Pinnacle Team Events

Hunter Valley

02 4962 5034

MAP 1 K5

Sally Sneddon Graphic Design

12 Yilen Cl, Beresfield

02 4088 7032

N/A

Saywells Chartered Accountants

12 Vincent St, Cessnock

02 4990 9766

N/A

Sheer Design

Maitland

02 4933 9000

MAP 1 N11

Sparkd Events & Marketing Communications

Hunter Valley

0410 477 774

N/A

TAXI – Cessnock Radio Cabs

52 Cumberland St, Nulkaba

02 4990 1111

MAP 2 E5

TAXI – Singleton Taxico

15 Mary St, Singleton

02 6572 1133

MAP 1 B0

Visitor Information – Hunter Valley

455 Wine Country Dr, Pokolbin

02 4993 6700

MAP1 K10

Visitor Information – Maitland

Cnr New England Hwy & High St, Maitland

02 4931 2800

MAP 1 K10

Visitor Information – Newcastle

@ The Maritime Centre, 3 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle

1800 654 558

N/A

Visitor Information – Singleton

Townhead Park, New England Hwy, Singleton

1800 499 888

MAP 4 D5

BIG-NAME ACTS from rock legend bruce springsteen to swedish pop - rockers roxette ,

the hunter valley plays host to some of the world ’ s biggest acts .

Recent star performers also include The Rolling Stones, The Eagles, Sting & Paul Simon, Jimmy Barnes, Fleetwood Mac, Bernard Fanning, Alicia Keys, Leonard Cohen, Lionel Richie, John Farnham, Hunters & Collectors, Daryl Braithwaite, Ian ‘Mossy’ Moss, Richard Clapton and country music favourites Toby Keith and Lee Kernaghan.

Visit winecountry.com.au to find out who’s headlining in 2018 and book your tickets.

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