The Hunter Blackboard | December 2015

The No.1 magazine for visitors to Hunter Valley Wine Country

BLACKBOARD

DECEMBER 2015 | ISSUE #106

THE HUNTER BLACKBOARD IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH...

FOR YOUR DIARY

December

6TH NOVEMBER - 26TH JANUARY| CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SPECTACULAR | Hunter Valley Gardens | Every year Hunter Valley Gardens bring thousands

of families together to celebrate the magic of Christmas at the Christmas Lights Spectacular. Open every night with over 1.5 million Christmas lights on show throughout designated areas of the Hunter Valley Gardens. With sound and light displays, live entertainment, food and beverages available for purchase on site and a special appearance from Santa, this is an event for all ages. Also up until Christmas, have your photo taken with Santa by a professional photographer.

Closed December 25th. For more information and tickets visit www.hvg.com.au

SATURDAY 5TH DECEMBER | ELTON JOHN | Hope Estate | Sir Elton John

PUBLISHED BY: WCP Media

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: PH +61 2 4943 2888 HunterValleyOnline.com.au enquiries@wcpmedia.com.au WCP MEDIA Suite 4, 2 Smith St, Charlestown, NSW 2290 December 2015.

Copyright © 2015 WCP Media.

Published monthly by WCP Media.

All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpt granted by written request only. While every attempt has been made, WCP Media cannot guarantee the legality, completeness or accuracy of the information presented and accepts no warranty or responsibility for such.

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thb 2 | DECEMBER 2015

and his band will return to Hope Estate this summer as part of his international All The Hits tour. The All The Hits tour will feature iconic hits and classic album tracks from throughout his incredible five-decade career, including a selection of songs from his highly acclaimed album, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, which recently celebrated its 40th anniversary with a Deluxe Edition. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear one of the world’s greatest pop musicians in spectacular form when Elton John returns to the Hunter Valley this December.

For more information visit www.hopeestate.com.au

TUESDAY 8TH DECEMBER | FAULTY TOWERS DINING EXPERIENCE | Hunter Resort | Based on the BBC’s best-loved sitcom, the Faulty Towers

Dining Experience is fully immersive, highly improvised and site-specific comedy theatre at its best! Only a third of the show is scripted, so anything can happen as you take a seat in the 'Faulty Towers' restaurant. Expect all the best gags and shambolic service when the show returns to Hunter Resort. The experience has been acclaimed around the world by audiences and critics alike so don’t miss your chance to dine with Sybil, Manuel and Basil! For more information visit www.interactivetheatre.com.au

SATURDAY 12TH DECEMBER | COLD CHISEL ONE NIGHT STAND | Hope Estate | The legendary Cold Chisel will be coming to Hope Estate

this December with very special guests The Living End. With a history that spans forty years and a reputation forged through blistering live shows and a catalogue of much-loved songs and albums, Cold Chisel has become a part of the nation’s psyche. The band has sold almost 7 million albums featuring songs like Cheap Wine, Choir Girl, When The War Is Over, Flame Trees, Saturday Night and Khe Sanh. Get in quick to buy tickets, this one will sell out!

For more information visit www.hopeestate.com.au

14TH - 16TH DECEMBER | THE JACK NEWTON CELEBRITY CLASSIC | Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley | The Jack Newton pro-am 36 hole golf

tournament pairs 54 celebrities ranging from sporting greats, comedians, entertainers, film stars and television personalities with 54 professional golfers. The tournament offers a unique opportunity for amateurs to play with their golfing heroes and celebrities. Whilst the celebrity heavy tournament prides itself on promoting a fun, relaxed vibe for its participants, there is a real purpose behind it – with all proceeds duly donated to the Jack Newton Junior Golf Foundation and Diabetes. For more information visit www.celebrityclassic.jacknewtongroup.com

THURSDAY 31ST DECEMBER | NEW YEARS EVE IN THE HUNTER |

Party into 2016 at Harrigans Irish Pub, Circa 1876 and Esca Bimbadgen with delicious feasts and live entertainment. The whole family can also celebrate the new year at Hunter Valley Gardens with a dazzling fireworks display at 9pm, amusement rides, plenty of live entertainment and the Christmas Lights Spectacular. More information about each event is available on Page 6 or on the individual venues websites.

WANT MORE? Keep up to date with events in the Hunter by visiting www.huntervalleyonline.com.au

FROM THE EDITORS No matter who you speak to, young or old, there is a general feeling that 2015 has passed by us at light speed. Perhaps this is the sign of a good year – a year to celebrate.

This special “Celebration” issue, the last for 2015, delivers a magazine that has continued to grow and transform, just as the Hunter Valley has. This year saw the publication of our 100th issue and the team at the Hunter Blackboard are proud to have been responsible for bringing all the latest news and events to the 2 million (plus!) visitors to the Hunter Valley each and every year for the past 8 years (and 106 issues).

“Dazzling” is really the only way to describe this year’s Christmas Lights Spectacular and we’ve aimed to capture as many lights as possible from this year’s display on the cover! Fortunately there are still about 1.5 million lights that we couldn’t fit on the cover, so get along to Hunter Valley Gardens to be dazzled yourself!

But it’s not just our visitors who have made the Hunter Blackboard what it is today – it’s the locals who share their stories, the restaurateurs and vignerons who constantly strive for excellence, the attractions and shops and every single person who works tirelessly to ensure that the Hunter Valley is the best Wine Destination in Australia – which we are happy to say – it is! So, let’s Celebrate the people behind the scenes, those that have, or will, make your stay here one to remember.

Of course it wouldn’t be a celebration without a glass (or two) of sparkles and we’ve put a Christmas spin on our partying to bring you the Sparkling Dozen.

Also this month we welcome the Jack Newton Celebrity Classic to its new home at Hunter Valley Golf and Country Club (Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley). If you’re not brave enough to enter the 3 day pro-am yourself you can go along and enjoy the spectacle of 54 pro-golfers teamed with 54 celebrity golfers and a bunch of amateurs let loose on the golf course.

We also welcome Sir Elton John back to the Hunter this month with a show that promises to delight audiences and could possibly be the last time we see the world-class performer in the area – so don’t miss out.

From our family to yours, we wish you the very best Christmas and a happy and safe 2016.

Enjoy!

Contents

10

We talk to some of the Hunter’s winemaking families to find out how they will be celebrating this Christmas, what they will be serving and most importantly – what they will be drinking!

CHEF TRENT BARRETT

14

HUNTER BLACKBOARD MAP

18

DISHING UP CHRISTMAS

22

FE[A]STIVE SEASON

27

THE SPARKLING DOZEN

32

From gardening with his grandmother as a child, Chef Trent Barrett has always appreciated fresh produce, which is reflected in his garden-to-plate philosophy at restaurants - Circa 1876 and Eighty Eight…

The Hunter Blackboard’s handy guide to finding your way around Wine Country…

V A L L E Y

Spend your Christmas at Circa 1876, Peppers Convent Hunter Valley to immerse yourself in the ultimate Hunter Valley dining experience in the spectacular setting of the Circa 1876 dining room.

Christmas Lunch at Circa 1876

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A WINEMAKERS CHRISTMAS

H U N T E R

Circa 1876 are preparing a feast fit to indulge in with signature hearty farm-to-fork cuisine accented by fresh takes on your family Christmas favourites that make up the perfect Christmas lunch for foodies.

Enjoy Three Courses - $165 per person Bookings are essential: info@circa1876.com or (02) 4998 4998

Many would agree that it wouldn’t be an Australian Christmas without prawns on the menu! We take a look at where you can enjoy prawns this festive season!

For many of us, Christmas is a time when diets and exercise are put on hold. Golden Door gives us some tips on how to stay on track this holiday season…

It doesn’t matter whether you prefer red or white, we have chosen 12 of our favourite Sparkling wines to help you toast in the New Year!

64 Halls Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 www.theconventhuntervalley.com 3 | DECEMBER 2015 thb

WHAT’S HOT IN THE HUNTER HUNTER VALLEY CHRISTMAS SHOP ALL things Christmas

Are you after that one special Christmas ornament? The countdown is on - its that festive time of year again already! Hunter Valley Christmas Shop is your go to place for everything Christmas - be that ornaments, garlands, trees, stockings (or even a fun size Christmas theme karaoke machine). With a focus on old-world quality, value for money and unparalleled uniqueness, Hunter Valley Christmas Shop has a shop FULL of amazing hand sourced Christmas goods on show.

S EDITOR K PIC

DECEM

Ornaments shown - Brown Deer (11.5in), Santa Snow Dome (30cm) and Antiqued Flower Ornaments.

WHERE Shop 16, Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin. www.tistheseason.com.au

BER

A PERSONALISED CHRISTMAS GIFT at Mistletoe WINERY

Mistletoe. What is Christmas without it? Mistletoe has over 20 different wines available on their list, with at least one to suit every taste! If you are shopping for a friend, family member, or a work colleague, the team can also assist in quality packaging, personal messages and direct delivery to the recipient if needed. Open 10am to 6pm, why not have a wine tasting while you're there?

Celebrate the festive season with Mistletoe!

A BERRY MERRY CHRISTMAS Cocktail Enjoy the warm festive weather with the following recipe: 01 Rim your glass with sugar 02 Add 1 shot Vodka 03 Add 1 shot Chambord 04 Add 1/2 shot Limoncello 05 Add 1/4 shot Grenedine Syrup 06 Top off with soda water and serve with mint and berrys/fruits of your choosing!

Both the Limoncello and Vodka can be found at Hunter Valley Liqueurs and Baerami Olives in the Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, Pokolbin.

WHERE Mistletoe Winery - 771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin.

Phone 1800 055 080. www.mistletoewines.com.au

EXPLORE THE VALLEY...

THE SEGWAY EXPERIENCE at HUNTER RESORT

This amazing adventure starts off at the brewery at Hunter Valley Resort, before entering the off road tracks/trails of this scenic property and travelling along an old 1880’s stock route.

Here you will encounter kangaroo’s, amazing views of the Brokenback Ranges and even the odd wombat or two. The tour ventures through the resort’s vineyard on the way home… topping off a great tour! For those aged between 11 and 80, this tour is guaranteed to put a smile on your face - don't forget your camera!

WHERE Hunter Resort - Corner of Hermitage Road and Mistletoe Lane. COST Children $60, adults $65. BOOKING Call 1300 465 636 or head to www.eastcoastxperiences.com.au/booking.php To see what else is happening at Hunter Resort and Hermitage Road, see page 13 or go to www.hunterresort.com.au

thb 4 | NOVEMBER 2015

CANDELABRA

A place worth SMELLING Attention candle lovers. Candelabra is known for its amazing and endless variety of products. Candles, incense, ornamental candle holders (example above), diffusers, oil burners... you'll find something for every nose and taste! Their Christmas range is well and truly stocked with Christmas goodies (see the gorgeous and well known Glasshouse fragrance above). A place truly worth smelling... Ah, make that visiting!

WHERE Shop 14, Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin. www.candelabra.com.au

Spark your festive spirit with the

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SPECTACULAR!

FESTIVE SPIRIT

Nothing says Christmas spirit like seeing millions of festive lights on display all in the one impressive place. Now in its ninth year, Christmas Lights Spectacular at Hunter Valley Gardens is bigger and better than ever – with last year’s event attracting more than 123,000 visitors.

Kyle McKendry, General Manager of Hunter Valley Gardens says, “This event sees families return year after year which is a testament to the fantastic feeling you get from visiting the magical light displays. This year will be our biggest yet, and with so many attractions on offer the Christmas Lights Spectacular is a must-do for families this festive season.”

This year we welcome five new displays, including the Fairy Garden, the Music Room with instruments and musical note displays, Santa’s Plane that is 5 metres wide, a Whale that is 3 metres long and the Pink Unicorn. The kids will also be excited to see some favourites such as Cinderella’s Castle, Alice in Wonderland, the North Pole Scene, Twelve Days of Christmas, the bigger and better Candy Land and so much more!

The extravaganza not only consists of a record number of lights, but also a variety of food and beverage stalls, roaming entertainment performances from Little Scallywagz, old school games in Arcade Alley, appearances by Santa until 24th December and a fireworks display on New Year’s Eve. With so many attractions, this event is the ultimate way to kick-start your family’s festive season.

The Christmas Light Spectacular will be dazzling every night until Tuesday 26th January 2016 (excluding 25th December 2015). Gates will open at 6.30pm and will close at 10pm.

To find out more about the Christmas Lights Spectacular, please call 02 4998 4000 or visit www.hvg.com.au. In the event of wet weather, please visit the Hunter Valley Gardens Facebook or Twitter page or contact Hunter Valley Gardens to find out if the Christmas Lights Spectacular will be open.

NOW ON!

he An event t y il m a whole f ! y will enjo

See exciting new displays like the Fairy Garden, the Music Room with instruments and musical notes displays, Santa’s Plane, improved Candy Land and Pink Unicorn.

Plus other favourites such as Cinderella’s Castle, Alice in Wonderland, the North Pole scene, Twelve Days of Christmas and so much more!

Christmas Lights open from 6.30pm - 10pm*. Now on until 26th January 2016

For details and online tickets visit - www.hvg.com.au

#ChristmasLightsSpectacular

Broke Road Pokolbin - Ph: 02 4998 4000 Admission charges apply. Gardens open 9am - 4pm. Closed 25th December. Lights display from 7.30pm. This event will not open in adverse weather conditions. Santas photos until 24th December. Program subject to change check social media for updates.

5 | DECEMBER 2015 thb

New Years Eve IN THE HUNTER On New Year’s Eve, the music will be pumping and the wine will flowing as the Hunter Valley says goodbye to 2015 and hello to 2016. Here are some of the best places to ring in 2016, from fine dining and fireworks to kicking off your heels and dancing the night away.

HARRIGANS IRISH PUB

SPARKLING ON ARRIVAL 5 COURSE FEAST LIVE ENTERTAINMENT SPARKLING TO TOAST THE NEW YEAR AT MIDNIGHT.

$140 PER PERSON OR $175 PER PERSON W/ MATCHING BIMBADGEN WINES BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL ESCA@BIMBADGEN.COM.AU 4998 4666

790 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin Phone: 4998 4666 www.bimbadgen.com.au

thb 6 | DECEMBER 2015

Party into 2016 with Harrigan’s Irish Pub’s New Year’s Eve VIP Party right in the heart of the Hunter Valley! This exclusive event will ensure you start 2016 in style!

For only $155 per person, you will enjoy sparkling and canapés on arrival, 5 hours of the premium beverage package and a delicious 3-course dinner. Your ticket also includes entry to Harrigan’s to enjoy the live entertainment from 6.30pm followed by a DJ from 10pm and the spectacular midnight fireworks! VIP Party tickets are limited and bookings are essential. For tickets call 4998 4300.

HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS Hunter Valley Gardens is set to ring in 2016 with fabulous festivities including a dazzling fireworks display, amusement rides and plenty of live entertainment for the whole family to enjoy. Along with a fireworks show, guests will also be able to experience the award-winning Christmas Lights Spectacular that is now bigger and better than ever with millions of festive lights on display. Hunter Valley Gardens will be open on New Year’s Eve from 6.30pm until 10pm, with the fireworks display commencing at 9pm. For more information visit www.hvg.com.au

surrounded by the beautiful grounds at Peppers Convent Hunter Valley. Bookings essential. To book call 4998 4998.

ESCA BIMBADGEN Celebrate the New Year at Esca Bimbadgen Restaurant and enjoy Bimbadgen Sparkling on arrival followed by a 5-course feast.

Entertainment will be by Newcastle singer/ songwriter Daniel Arvidson, and there will be Bimbadgen Sparkling wine to toast the New Year at Midnight. Tickets are $140 per person or $175 per person with matching Bimbadgen wines. Bookings essential. To book call 4998 4666.

GOLDFISH BAR AND KITCHEN Make your New Year’s Eve something special by celebrating at Goldfish Bar & Kitchen. Enjoy a special cocktail on arrival, a 3-hour canape and pizza package, a glass of bubbles at midnight and the Sydney Fireworks on the big screen to see in the New Year. All this for only $85 per person!

If you already have dinner plans, why not visit Goldfish Bar and Kitchen afterwards for live entertainment by ‘The Mark Wells Trio’, fireworks on the big screen and a glass of bubbles for only $20 per person for entry after 9pm. To book call 4998 7688.

NANNA KERR'S KITCHEN

If you have one too many wines on New Year’s Eve, Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen have you covered on New Year’s Day with their Bubbles & Bloody Mary BBQ Brunch. For only $39 per person, from 9.30am until 2.30pm you can enjoy a special edition ‘Nanna's Got a Sore Head’ feast including CIRCA 1876 bacon, sausage, lamb chop, mushrooms, roasted tomato, eggs, hash browns and Start your year as you mean to continue, with a glamourous and whimsical 3-course sourdough all cooked on the BBQ with organic bubbles or Bloody Mary on feast at Circa 1876. For just $110 per arrival. Vegan & Children's Menus are also person, you will be treated to a night available. To book call 4998 7333. of luxury in the gorgeous restaurant

HUNTER MARKETS...

ADDED DATES IN THE

countdown TO

Christmas!

H U N T E R

20th

V A L L E Y

Start your year as you mean to continue, with a glamorous and whimsical feast at Circa 1876.

New Year’s Eve at Circa 1876

DEC

For just $110 per person, you will be treated to a night of luxury in our gorgeous restaurant surrounded by the beautiful grounds at Peppers Convent Hunter Valley.

INSPIRATION Î ARTISAN ÎƉFOOD Î LIVE MUSIC

B c%a %)ƉÎƉ{ k% )ƉÎƉ)c ) Fca)c INSPIRATION • ARTISIAN • FOOD • LIVE MUSIC

Spend your New Years Eve at Circa 1876, Peppers Convent Hunter Valley to immerse yourself in the ultimate Hunter Valley dining experience in the spectacular setting of the Circa 1876 dining room.

HANDMADE • PRODUCE • ENTERTAINMENT OLD ST BRIGIDS SCHOOL GROUNDS OLD ST BRIGIDS SCHOOL GROUNDS CNRST STATION ST AND NEW ENGLAND HWY, BRANXTON OLD BRIGIDS SCHOOL GROUNDS CNR STATION ST AND NEW ENGLAND HWY, BRANXTON

Enjoy Three Courses - $110 per person Bookings are essential: info@circa1876.com or (02) 4998 4998

CNR STATION ST AND NEW ENGLAND HWY,9AM-2PM BRANXTON THIRD SUNDAY OF THE MONTH THIRD SUNDAY OF THE MONTH 9AM-2PM

THIRD SUNDAY OF THE MONTH 9AM - 2PM

www.sacredtreemarkets.com.au www.sacredtreemarkets.com.au

64 Halls Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 | www.theconventhuntervalley.com

SPARKLING AND CANAP ÉS ON ARRIVAL

A DELICIOUS 3 COURSE DINNER 5 HOURS OF OUR PREMIU M BEVERAGE PACKAGE

R SPECTACULA MIDNIGHT FIREWORKS

Make your New Year’s Eve something special and book a ticket to Harrigan’s VIP Party!

$155 PER PERSON TO MAKE A BOOKING CALL 4998 4300 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW | www.harrigansirishpub.com.au

KI BOO

S NG

EN E SS

TIAL

Join us for updates & giveaways

7 | DECEMBER 2015 thb

GOLF CLASSIC

THE

JACKNEWTON

Celebrity Classic

By Michelle Meehan Every year The Jack Newton Celebrity Classic or “The Jack” sees 54 professional golfers, 54 celebrities, 54 amateurs and 54 sponsors’ representatives gather together for three days of golf and good times – with a hearty dash of charitable goodwill thrown in as well!

The event will clock up its 37th year on the fairways this month – the longest running celebrity pro-am golf tournament in Australia. Moving to a new home in 2015 after spending eight years at Cypress Lakes Resort - the fun will tee off at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley and the Hunter Valley Golf Course on December 14 - 16.

While Jack himself grew up in Cessnock and has lived in the Hunter for the past 40 years, The Jack had its origins hundreds of kilometres from his home.

The inaugural event was held in December 1979 at the Tewantin Noosa Golf Club on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast – with Jack, the winner of that year’s Australian Open, among the professional golfing contingent invited to take part.

He became a regular on the event line-up, taking out the title in 1980 and becoming more heavily involved along with his wife Jackie in helping it grow while his own career on the golf course also flourished.

Then, three years later Jack’s life changed forever when a freak accident at Sydney Airport in July 1983 claimed his right arm, his right eye – and very nearly, his life.

With his professional dreams in tatters, you could have forgiven him for walking away from a sport in which he could no longer pursue a playing career.

Instead, he turned his attention to the other avenues golf still offered him – television commentary, establishing the Junior Golf Foundation

PICTURED LEFT: L to R Jack Newton, Jackie Newton and Clint Newton.

PICTURED RIGHT: Golfers dress up every year.

and, in 1985, taking over the running of the celebrity pro-am that had by that time been re-named in his honour.

Over the years, thanks to the Newtons, the event has continued to grow in size and reputation, relocating in 1992 to the newly-completed Novotel Twin Waters Resort on the Sunshine Coast, before Jack brought the event home to the Hunter in 2006.

While the players – celebrity, golfer and sponsor alike – do take the tournament seriously over what are two hotly-contested rounds of golf, there’s also plenty of fun to be had on the course as well as off, with many participants getting into the spirit of things by indulging in fancy dress while they play.

The “tradition” has seen the event contested by everyone from Santa Claus, Scooby-Doo and Where’s Wally to superheroes, chap-wearing Cowboys, a bride (in a gorgeous white dress) and Kiss look-a-likes, complete with full wigs and make-up!

Over the years the Celebrity Classic, along with separate Corporate Jack events, have raised more than $6.1 million for the Jack Newton Junior Golf Foundation and various diabetes charities.

Both the causes are close to Jack’s heart. His father died from complications related to diabetes and Jack himself was diagnosed with it a few years after his accident. Furthering the development of junior golfers continues to be one of Jack’s major passions.

For more information on the Jack Newton Celebrity Classic, sponsorship opportunities or the chance to jump in and swing a club with the best of them, visit www.jacknewtongroup.com

Cheers Bus

Hunter Valley Guided Winery Tours • Personalised, professional tour in an air conditioned mini bus, seven days per week • Pick up from your local accommodation or from Sydney, Central Coast, Maitland and Singleton areas and be escorted throughout the day • Witness the beauty and tranquillity of Hunter Wine Country on route to our chosen boutique cellar doors, as well as vodka, schnapps, cheese, olive and chocolate tastings • Wedding, restaurant, concert and airport transfers available

book@cheersbus.com • Call John on 0408 987 057 thb 8 | DECEMBER 2015

Hunter Valley Chocolate Co.

Hunter Valley Vineyards Boutique Cheesery

Pure Indulgence

We invite you to indulge in our ďŹ ne range of unique hand-made chocolate products, our huge variety of freshly made fudge or relax at our factory and retail centre at 2320 Broke Road Pokolbin.

BOUTIQUE FACTORY & SHOWROOM 2320 Broke Rd, Pokolbin Ph 4998-6999 Also at Peterson Champagne House Ph 4998-7301 and Shop 5 Hunter Valley Gardens Village Ph 4998-7221

www.hvchocolate.com.au • admin@hvchocolate.com.au

Hunter Valley

CHEESE FACTORY

Christmas

In Store!

The Hunter Valley Cheese Factory is celebrating the magic of Christmas; family, friends and casual entertaining.

An exciting & unique tasting experience.

We invite you to sample our Hunter made speciality Liqueurs (the Chocolate Port is to die for), Extra Virgin Olive Oils, Infused Olive Oils, our famous Caramelised Balsamic Vinegar, and our amazing range of Gourmet Stuffed Olives!

Whether its collecting your seasonal Hunter Valley Cheese, or selecting from our huge range of house made and regional produce, you'll find plenty Australian produce in store to delight everyone's taste buds.

Choose a designer bottle to compliment your new favourite liqueur, and let us tailor make your wedding bonbonniere, or corporate gift packages.

Located at Mcguigan Wine Complex 447 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998 7744 Now in two great locations: 23 Ogilvie St DENMAN | PH 6547 2840 Shop 6 Hunter Valley Gardens, Broke Rd POKOLBIN | PH 4998 7455

www.huntervalleycheese.com.au

www.huntervalleyliqueurs.com.au 9 | DECEMBER 2015 thb

'Tis the season to be jolly

A WINEMAKERS

CHRISTMAS Tis the season to be jolly and for the majority of Australians, Christmas is celebrated in much the same way as it is in London, New York or Montreal and with all the same glitter, tinsel and razzmatazz that goes with the season. Yes – it’s the ‘silly season’ all over the world. The one (big) difference of course is the weather. An Aussie Christmas is never white – instead we have the occasional seasonal variations with electrical storms, floods, cyclones and of course that seasonal guarantee of bushfires. But we don’t complain as we secretly know that we are more often than not truly blessed with blue skies and temperatures sitting somewhere around 35+ degrees.

For those interested, the first official Christmas service in Australia was celebrated on the 25th of December, 1788 at Sydney Cove, after which Governor Arthur Phillips and his officers dined heartily, toasting the King of England and his family. Unfortunately for the majority of the early white inhabitants – being the convicts, there were no such celebrations and they continued to receive their normal rations of bread. In fact the only goodwill displayed at the time was to Michael Dennison – a convict who after stealing a pound of flour, was sentenced to 200 lashes by the whip. But being Christmas, he only received 150 lashes.

So with the traditional sights and sounds of the festive season pointing to the Northern Hemisphere with roaring fires and tables laden with a Christmas feast including a succulent roast turkey centrepiece - how do we tackle the big day when it’s 35 degrees and sunny?

While we still retain many of the same Christmas traditions as our friends in the north, we also have some of our own that are unique to Australia and are largely about dining outside including seafood with the main meal.

By far the most popular Christmas event throughout the country is Carols by Candlelight where people from all over the region come together at night to light candles and sing Christmas carols under the stars at numerous wonderful outdoor concerts. Many families put up a Christmas tree and decorate their homes with Christmas lights, as well as colourful Christmas bush.

Our Christmas celebrations have always been heavily influenced by our original Anglo-Celtic influences. For many years the English style of Christmas has served as our model for celebrating Christmas - right down to the traditional roast turkey, ham and steamed pudding in over 35 degree heat. Today with the huge influx of overseas migrants our Christmas celebrations are increasingly being influenced by the ethnicity and cultural diversity of families making up our society.

thb 10 | DECEMBER 2015

Common sense is also prevailing today in terms of the weather.

Interestingly, despite the heat, the turkey still dominates many Australian Christmas tables, with our European ancestry ensuring a hot meal is still very much on the menu. But the traditional formal dinner is slowly but surely being replaced with less formal family gatherings in back yards, picnics in parks, gardens and on the beach. For many, it is the occasion to be with friends and relatives, to share love and friendship and the exchange of gifts in the traditional manner.

Of course, it is also a wonderful opportunity to enjoy and consume massive quantities of food – putting off all dieting commitments until after the New Year. Today, a typical Australian Christmas menu could include seafood, glazed ham, cold chicken, duck or turkey, cold deli meats, pasta, salads, desserts of all types, fruit salad, pavlovas, ice-cream plus Christmas edibles of all varieties such as mince pies, fruit cake, shortbread, chocolates and more.

In the Hunter Valley, things are celebrated much like they are in other parts of Australia albeit we think we have more reason to be jolly (well we certainly have the resources to ensure a heightened level of jolliness).

This year we decided to find out how some of our winemaking families will be celebrating Christmas, what they are serving up and just as importantly - what they will be drinking.

Turkey features prominently on the McLeish family Christmas menu this year when Bob and Maryanne McLeish of McLeish Estate and their daughter Jess head off to Soldiers Point for their Christmas break. ‘’This year we are spending Christmas Day with my two brothers and their extended family and with Bob’s Scottish heritage we continue to include the traditional Christmas turkey with bread stuffing, cranberry relish and jus on the menu’’, said Maryanne.

If Christmas in Australian means anything, it’s a chance to get together and relax with family, friends and work mates. While our Northern Hemisphere friends are shivering in front of their log fires while they celebrate, many of those who have made the move ‘down under’ still continue to celebrate their family Christmas with some of the traditional customs and foods that they grew up with.

Geoff and Barb Brown, owners of Ascella Pure Wine, bought their 32 hectare vineyard in December 2007 and set about turning the estate into a sustainable organic farm that produces high quality, award-winning wines. While both are Canadian, Barb is also of Ukrainian descent, which means that their Christmas celebrations tend to have Canadian and Ukrainian influences when it comes to meal selection. This includes having their main (hot) meal in the evening of the 25th. ‘’Coming from Canada, it took us a while to get our heads around spending Christmas in the summer heat but now we really embrace it,” said Barb. “It's a chance to catch up with family and friends, sit outside, relax and enjoy some of the amazing Hunter wines that we have made over the years. This year is also a special time for us as we are being joined by our son who lives in Canada.’’ ‘’This year we are also being joined by a few guests from Italy, Germany and Austria, so dinner on Christmas Eve will take on a more European flavour, with a clear vegetable soup, grilled or steamed wild salmon, red cabbage, baby carrots and spinach and mashed potatoes accompanied by a glass of Ascella Reserve Semillon 2014. For dessert we will be making Linzereyes cookies, panettone, and chocolate mouse with cherries which will go very nicely with our sparkling Pure Vescence.’’

‘’Our traditional Christmas celebration will take place in the cool of the evening on Christmas Day and our choice of dishes tend to be influenced by our Canadian and Ukrainian heritage,’’ ‘’Also on the menu is a glazed and baked ham and also chicken explains Barb. ‘’Pride of place on the menu is the organic and because Bob has gone crazy over Aldi lobster tails - we will turkey basted in Reserve Chardonnay closely followed by the be including them along with prawns as well.’’ traditional baked ham marinated in maple syrup, brown sugar and pineapple. Also being served up is baked sweet potato, ‘’When it comes to the wines - the turkey will be paired with Brussel sprouts, baked wheat and honey and Holubtsi which is a McLeish Culloden Sparkling Shiraz and the seafood will go a Ukrainian stuffed cabbage roll. Paired with these dishes will nicely with a 2009 McLeish Semillon. Also being served will be a be a 2011 Ascella Wines Merlot, the Ascella’s 2014 Reserve Cabernet Shiraz with the ham."

Chardonnay and the very very limited 2009 Shiraz.’’

It’s worth noting that the Culloden Sparkling range ‘’When it comes to dessert, we have a Canadian pumpkin pie acknowledges the McLeish history that goes back to Bob’s which is served with cream and ice cream and a Canadian homeland in Scotland. It immortalizes the sacrifices of blood version of Christmas cake - all of which are very nice with a glass at the Battle of Culloden- April 16th 1746, the result of the last of Sparkling Pure Vescence – a delicious sparkling Rosé wine.’’ great clash of arms on British soil, in which the 5,000 strong Jacobite army of Bonnie Prince Charlie were mercilessly cut to Family is also at the heart of how Tracy and Stephen Drayton pieces by the overwhelming fire power of the 9,000 Hanovarian from Ivanhoe Wines celebrate Christmas. Being true Australians troops led by the Duke of Cumberland. But that's a whole with a love of the land, the appeal of being able to sit outside other story! on a warm sunny day, relaxing with friends and family whilst dining alfresco is one of the true joys of an Australian Christmas.

Our love affair with seafood certainly comes to the fore when planning a Christmas menu – Aussie style – with everything "This year Christmas is being spent at home with family and from sophisticated oyster or prawn starters to steaming salmon extended family" said Tracy. "All up we will have 12 family or Murray cod mains likely to pop up on the dinner table on the members over for Christmas lunch, which will be a relaxed big day. affair sitting outside dining alfresco on the deck overlooking the vineyards."

Proof that there’s more to Christmas than just a golden turkey.

Mark and Lou Davidson from Tamburlaine Organic Wines are spending their Christmas at the Bay this year with their 2 daughters, parents, grandchildren, and sisters and their extended families.

‘’On the menu this year we have oysters and Nelson Bay prawns for appetizers, which will be accompanied by a crisp and dry Ivanhoe Semillon. For the main meal we are having a ‘turducken’ - a Cajun dish which is a turkey stuffed with a boneless duck that has already been stuffed with a boneless chicken; and served ‘’Staying at the Bay means that there’s always plenty of with a range of fresh salads and matched to a delicious Ivanhoe mouth-watering seafood on offer in the region, fresh from the Sparkling Chambourcin. We will then finish the meal off with a fishermen’s boats and that is exactly what we are serving up this brandy plum pudding and a glass of Lancelot Tawny Port.’’ year,’’ said Lou. After another big (albeit challenging) year and with the 2016 ‘’When it comes to wines we will be serving up Sparkling Wine harvest taking place just a month from December (January to and Sauvignon Blanc from the Tamburlaine vineyards in Orange February), our winemakers deserve a well-earned break before and a whole lot of Hunter Verdelho and Semillon.’’ the start of the new year.

11 | DECEMBER 2015 thb

ELTON JOHN

All The Hits Tour

December's tour will feature iconic hits and classic album tracks from throughout his incredible five-decade career and promises a selection of songs from his album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, which recently celebrated its 40th anniversary.

Elton John’s band includes Nigel Olsson on drums, part of Elton's original three-piece band, as well as musical director Davey Johnstone on guitar, Matt Bissonette on bass, John Mahon on percussion, and Kim Bullard on keyboards.

Considered one of the world’s greatest living pop icons, Elton’s audience has seen him traverse a career that began in the 1960s when he was a shy singer/songwriter and saw him grow into one of the most successful musicians of all time. His crossovers from classic balladry, soul and disco to country, gospel and rock have often confounded (but never disappointed) his legion of worldwide fans.

IMAGE CREDIT: Antonio Scorza www.shutterstock.com

This December, Sir Elton John and his band return to Australia as part of his international “All The Hits Tour” of Australia which kicks off on December 5 at Hope Estate in Pokolbin.

“Australia has been one of my favorite countries to tour in ever since my first visit at the start of my world-wide career in 1971,” Elton says of his tour to Australia, noting that his drummer on that tour, Nigel Olsson, is still part of his entourage today.

“Some of my most memorable concerts have taken place in venues all across the continent. The Australian audiences always seem to bring out the best in us, and I am certain there will be many more fantastic evenings when we visit in December.’’

Elton John first performed in Australia on 17 October, 1971 at Subiaco Oval, Perth. Having played 179 concerts across the country to in excess of 1.5 million people, this month Elton John makes a triumphant return to the country that has welcomed him for many years. As part of this tour Elton John will play at the Qantas Credit Union Arena (formerly Sydney Entertainment Centre) on 19 December, which will be the final concert in that arena prior to its scheduled closure. Elton also set a house record for performing in that venue with 45 shows to in excess of 475,000 people.

Elton is one of the top-selling solo recording artists of all time, with 37 gold and 27 multi-platinum albums as well as 58 Billboard Top 40 singles in the United States, and he has sold more than 250 million records worldwide (in 1975, one in every fifty albums sold was an Elton John record). Elton also holds the record for the biggest-selling single of all time, Candle in the Wind in 1997, which sold 33 million copies. He has also written the music for stage and screen successes Billy Elliot - The Musical, Elton John and Tim Rice’s Aida and The Lion King, which was recently named the highestgrossing stage show or film release in the world.

Among the many awards and honours bestowed upon him are five Grammys, a Grammy Legend award, a Tony and an Oscar, a Best British Male Artist BRIT Award, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Kennedy Centre Honour, Legend of Live Award, 12 Ivor Novello Awards and a knighthood from HM Queen Elizabeth II for “services to music and charitable services.” Elton was also the first recipient of the BRITs Icon Award, which recognizes the very highest level of British music achievement, presented only to iconic artists whose writing, recording and performances set them apart as having made a lasting impact on the nation’s culture.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear one of the world’s greatest pop musicians in spectacular form when Elton John performs in his “All The Hits Tour” of Australia this month. Rumour has it that this may be his last tour of the Hunter Valley!

BARRETT’S

Hunter Valley

Reflections Day Spa DELUXE TASTING PACKAGE

30min Massage + 30min Facial + 30min Pedicure

$149 (normally $207)

• Massage •Facials •Body Treatments •Pedicures/ Manicures • Hens Parties • Spa Packages at Adina Vineyard 492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

CHARTER COACHES

HUNTER VALLEY - NEWCASTLE - LAKE MACQUARIE

MAKE OUR BUSES YOUR PLAN B!

Specialises in large groups with over 25 passengers • Social Clubs Weddings • Work Functions • Dinner Transfers

For more details and a free quote visit our website today!

OPEN 7 days PH 4930 9006 • www.reflectionsdayspa.com.au

www.kitchenerbusdepot.com

• Hundreds of colourful hand blown &

crystal wine glasses • Exciting selection of unusual glass vases, lamps & homewares • Large selection of Cheryl Cusicks latest original artworks • Many uniquely coloured tea lights & lamps • Souvenirs - Australian & the Hunter Valley • Comical wine glasses, coasters & magnets Shop 3, Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village Phone 4998 6888 • Open 7 Days

thb 12 | NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2015 2015

Wine Glass Gallery Because great wine deserves a great wine glass

Over 3,000 colourful eclectic products to choose from...

Come and enjoy a friendly Hunter Valley Experience!

Check out whats happening on

Hermitage Road NEW MATILDA BAY BREWHOUSE HUNTER VALLEY Winemakers say, “It takes alot of great beer to make a Hunter wine...”

What better way to finish off a hard day of wine-tasting than with a cleansing ale. We have 12 amazing craft beers for you to look at, analyse and taste… experience the unique Beer Tasting Paddle with tasting notes.

NEW LA GLACE GOURMET PRODUCE & DESSERT BAR

Hunter Valley Gardens Village Pokolbin Entry through the General Store… PH 4998 7191

NEW SEGWAY TOURS The Hunter Valley has finally got a guided Segway Tour. Explore this historic region famous for its world class wine on your very own Segway! This amazing adventure starts off at the brewhouse at Hunter Valley Resort, before entering the off road tracks / trails of this vast bush land property and travelling along an old 1880’s stock route.

So make sure you bring your camera, it’s an experience not to be missed!

HUNTER WINE THEATRE At 11am & 2pm, see the 15 min movie following a grape through the winemaking process into the bottle.

The wine tutorial afterwards is a must do. Groups welcome.

HERMITAGE ROAD CELLARS 49 different wines from 12 small Hunter producers, all at the one Cellar Door. Must be the largest selection of wines in the Hunter.

BINNORIE CHEESE DAIRY Arguably the best locally made cheeses in the area. You have not experienced the best cheese the Hunter has to offer if you miss this place.

HUNTER VALLEY WINE SCHOOL Every day at 9am, the 2 hour Wine School includes a Vineyard inspection, experience the winemaking process, learn how to taste and blend wines. Finally, a personalised Wine Appreciation Certificate. Bookings essential.

HEAVENLY HUNTER MASSAGES Sally Margan’s Heavenly Hunter Massage Centre – the name says it all… Book in a Hawaiian Ka huna today.

Bookings essential.

BIG KIDS CANDY MAKING Make Rocky Road from scratch.

Big Kids = Alcoholic Rocky Road… Also great activity for families, minus the alcohol of course! (Min 8 pax – bookings essential)

WINE COUNTRY HORSERIDING Pokolbin’s only horseriding

facility. You travel along an old 1880’s stock route.. Kids can do the 20 minute pony ride too. Bookings essential.

Tyrrells

Broke Road

Hunter Gardens/ Cessnock Deasys Road

HUNTER VALLEY RESORT

Singleton/ Branxton

Mistletoe Lane

H ermitage Road

d Roa rth

Free tastings daily of a huge range of local and not so local honeys

Old No

All things bees and honey!

La Glace is the oldest and probably best confectionary in Denmark.

Founded in the middle of old Copenhagen in 1870, it has through six generations delivered joy and quality to Copenhagen and its visitors.

In the best of Danish tradition, please come in and visit La Glace Dessert Bar at Hunter Valley Resort for the freshest Ice Creams, Chocolate, Cakes, and of course coffee. Did we mention our range of gourmet produce?

COME AND EXPERIENCE THE QUIETER SIDE OF POKOLBIN. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

For more information visit www.hunterresort.com.au or call 02 4998 7777

New England Highway

13 | DECEMBER 2015 thb

CIRCA 1876

Executive Chef Trent Barrett

Trent Barrett is the executive chef at Peppers Convent Hunter Valley, overseeing the property’s two restaurants Circa 1876 and Eighty Eight, as well as the food offering at the luxury boutique hotel.

Eight and Peppers Convent Hunter Valley, Trent immediately set about introducing a new menu and dining format at Circa 1876 which offered diners two, three and five course tasting menus. A new seasonal menu was also created at the more casual restaurant, Eighty Eight, which Trent worked on in collaboration with Eighty Eight Chef de Cuisine Adam Boylson. Together the two chefs have collaborated to create a menu that brings to life the flavours of the kitchen garden’s food and injects hints of quirkiness, influenced by Adam’s own personality.

Before joining the team at Peppers in 2014, Trent worked at QT Port Douglas and Surfers Paradise where he was Executive Chef.

When he wasn’t cooking personally for Sir Robert Plant, lead singer of Led Zeppelin and Bernard Fanning the lead singer from Powderfinger, he was honing his cooking and gardening skills at QT in far north “Our food focuses on timeless ingredients Queensland. but presented in new ways,” says Trent.

Trent has had a passion for gardening and “Our beautiful organic garden inspires me the garden-to-plate philosophy since he daily to do and try different things. The was seven years old. Spending much of his flavour profile of the produce we source childhood with his grandmother (who was from just a few metres away in our garden an avid cook and gardener), it wasn’t long is incredible - it surprises so many customers before Trent had a garden of his own to tend when they taste what real ‘fresh food’ is to. In 2002, Trent started his apprenticeship like,” explains Trent. at Pescatories Italian Restaurant in Airlie For Trent sustainability isn't just a buzzword Beach, before working at both Omeros - it's become a way of life and he has made Brothers Seafood Restaurant, Ramsgate and it a priority to implement programs and The Beach House, Gold Coast. practices that are healthier for diners as well In 2008, Trent opened his own Italian as the environment. restaurant, Cibo Bar & Restaurant on the With his passion for health and sustainable Gold Coast. Later and with the desire to dining, Trent has expanded the restaurants further develop his fine dining experience, 1.5 acre organic kitchen garden by adding he joined the progressive QT Hotels group quails and a custom-made miniature as Executive Chef where he was part of the Convent beehive to harvest his own honey. opening team of QT Resort Port Douglas.

There, he was able to build a kitchen garden The kitchen team also cures its own bacon, bakes bread and juices daily tonics from and further develop his experience of the garden’s produce. Also located nearby growing and cooking sustainably. is the well-established chicken coop with After taking on the new role to lead the chickens that are laying well and supplying food direction across Circa 1876, Eighty the kitchen with eggs.

thb 14 | DECEMBER 2015

Circa 1876's Trent Barrett shares his recipe for White Bean Cassoulet.

Ingredients (serves 3 people) 1 poached egg 250g Cannellini 2 kipfler potatoes 2 Eschallots 1 Clove Garlic 75g Bacon 25ml Dry White Wine 20g Chopped Thyme 25g Butter 5g Salt

Garnish 1 Punnet Cherry Tomatoes 1 Lime – Portioned to wedges 1 Cayenne – Portioned into 3 100g Baby Spinach

Method • Strain the cannellini beans and set aside. Bring potatoes to the boil and reduce to a simmer until tender, cool immediately, slice into 1cm rounds.

Finely chop thyme, bacon and garlic, slice the eschallots.

• Sauté the eschallots, thyme, garlic and bacon.

Add the white beans, potato rounds and deglaze with the white wine. Remove from heat, season with salt and stir in the butter.

• Garnish accordingly with cherry tomatoes, lime, chilli and baby spinach.

Wine match Sangiovese, a light bodied Merlot, or if you prefer whites a Pinot Grigio.

Hunter Valley

Horse Ridingures & Advent Trail Rides for Beginners and Experienced Riders

Pony Rides • Family Rides • Picnics • BBQ’s • Personalised Rides Hiking & Mountain Bike Trails • Sunset Rides • Kangaroos Spectacular Valley Views • Tractor Hay Rides to Feed the Animals!

MARK YOUR DIARY Santas Sleigh Rides at Christmas and The Teddy Bears Picnic on Easter Sunday

For Bookings Phone Margaret on 4930 7111 or 0417 233 008 Stay & play at Hilltop, 288 Talga Road, Lovedale So close to all of Wine Countrys attractions, yet you feel a million miles away..

FREE Live music @ Pok ol SECOND an d LAS bin Village on the T Sunday of the month

Smelly Cheese Shop Chocolate and Jam Company Winemakers Outlet General Store Buon Cibo Restaurant Tempt and Vixen Giftware Pokolbin Village Accommodation MMG Photo & Cinema

15 | DECEMBER 2015 thb

Your always welcome at...

Oishii Japanese

The GREAT Cessnock

Thai Restaurant

ELF CHALLENGE

There is nothing quite like a festive sushi platter to impress your guests.

It tastes healthy, light and delicious.

A favourite dining experience for locals and visitors alike.

Always fresh... Always vibrant Open 7 days for lunch and dinner.

Takeaway available every day.

Tempus Two Complex, Hunter Valley Corner of Broke Rd & Mcdonald Rd’s Pokolbin, NSW 2320 PH 02 4998 7051 www.oishii.com.au

J A P A N E S E T H A I C U I S I N E

On Friday, December 4th, Baddeley Park in Cessnock will be overrun by Christmas Elves in an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the most Christmas Elves in the one place at the one time. /OishiiPokolbin

The record is currently held by Thailand with 1792 elves.

The event has been organised by local community group Project Cessnock, with their aim to not just break the record but to smash it right out of the park, so to speak.

Born from a desire to have the local and greater Hunter Valley community come together at Christmas in a fun and quirky way, the Great Cessnock Christmas Elf Challenge will undoubtedly be a fantastic yuletide celebration with Christmas Markets, entertainment, fireworks and the annual Christmas Carols following the challenge at 6.30pm.

Elves are encouraged to be as creative as they like in their costumes, however, to break the world record they must have a red and green shirt, elf hat and ears.

If you would like to be involved, register and download your free tickets from www.stickytickets.com.au/28710. Elf Hats will be available for purchase at East Cessnock Bowling Club, LJ Hooker Cessnock and Memo Office and Art with all proceeds going to women and children’s refuge ‘Jodie’s Place’.

Designed to Delight.

Premium Wines • Spectacular Views 2342 Broke Rd, Pokolbin. Open 10am - 5pm Daily PH 4998 6722 • www.lambloch.com • cellardoor@lambloch.com

thb 16 | DECEMBER 2015

Sabor Pokolbin

OPEN Xmas Eve, Boxing Day & 28th Dec. Closed 29th Dec - 14th Jan.

For an altogether sweet experience, a visit to one of Sabor in the Hunter’s Dessert Bars is a MUST! Pair something scrumptious with a delicious Hunter Valley wine…. it’s a unique Hunter Valley experience that you can only enjoy at a Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar. The Sabor Dessert Menu features over 50 different desserts, each one created individually. Nothing is served by the slice and this brings a new level of culinary delight to desserts in the Hunter Valley.

Indulge in multi-award winning Portuguese Chocolate mousse, decadent cakes, pastries, hand-made chocolates, Portuguese tarts and gourmet ice-cream.

There is also a large range of gluten free desserts, barista-made Glinelli coffee and a selection of teas to enjoy amongst the vines or to take away and savour in your home or hotel.

Sabor in the Hunter is a culinary experience you will not soon forget!

A wide range of other gourmet products to take home include Persian fairy floss, Sabor Portuguese chocolate mousse, Hunter Valley cookies, Tasmanian gingerbread with a difference, various Callebaut chocolate products, gourmet ice-cream tubs, drinking chocolates and many, many more sweet treats.

Enjoy a world of desserts at a Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar near you.

POKOLBIN At Lambloch Estate, 2342 Broke Rd, Pokolbin • PH 1300 958 939

Open Thursday 10am - 4.30pm, Fri & Sat 10am - 9.30pm, Sun & Mon 10am - 4.30pm

LOVEDALE 319 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale • PH 1300 958 850

Open Saturday & Sunday 10am - 4.30pm

www.saborinthehunter.com.au

17 | DECEMBER 2015 thb

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Wynwood Estate and Twine Restaurant Family Christmas Afternoon

Wynwood Estate and Twine Restaurant are inviting you to celebrate Christmas with them at their Family Christmas afternoon from 4pm to 8pm on Sunday 6th December.

Relax and listen to live music while enjoying the amazing view over the vines, sampling great food off the BBQ from Twine Restaurant and sipping some award-winning wines from Wynwood Estate.

The food available for purchase includes German Sausage Hot Dog, Cumin and Cayenne Calamari with Lime Aioli, Rosemary Salted Potato Wedges and Sausage Sandwiches for the kids. All wine will be only $5 per glass and beers, soft drinks and water will also be available for purchase.

While you are enjoying the sumptuous food and wine, don’t worry about the kids as they will be having a great time getting their face painted, bouncing on the jumping castle and who knows - the big man in the red suit may also make a guest appearance.

Bring along a rug or a folding chair, kick back and celebrate the festive season at one of the most picturesque vineyards in the Hunter Valley.

For more information contact Wynwood Estate or Twine Restaurant.

R EC REATI N G H I S T O RY Bringing the old vines back to their former glory...

310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin 2320 PH (02) 4998 7885 E cellar@wynwoodestate.com.au W www.wynwoodestate.com.au thb 20 | DECEMBER 2015

KOPiAsTe! COMe, eAT, enJOY! We use the freshest seasonal produce from our onsite kitchen garden to create our signature Cypriot Meze, a 4 course feast inspired from Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. Enjoy all day dining and slowly graze through the dishes whilst enjoying the picturesque vineyard views. If you have neither the time nor apetite, select tasty morsels of seasonal seafood, meat, and vegetarian dishes from our new Mezedhes menu.

RidgeVieW Wines ARe AVAilAble AT The CellAR dOOR PRiCe.

Wines RidgeView is a family owned, boutique producer of handcrafted trophy winning wines. Sample from Riedel glasses our flagship “Generations” Semillon and Shiraz as well as our ecclectic range of 100% Hunter Valley wines.

CellAR dOOR ResTAURAnT lUXURiOUs COTTAges VineYARd OliVe gROVe eVenTs

CELLAR DOOR OPEN 10AM-5PM WED-SUN RESTAURANT OPEN BREAKFAST FRI-SUN LUNCH & DINNER THUR-SUN Ph: (02) 65747332 273 sweetwater Road Pokolbin dine@ridgeview.com.au www.ridgeview.com.au AWARDED 5 stARs by ‘JAmEs HAlliDAy AustRAliAn WinE CompAnion’

21 | DECEMBER 2015 thb

FOOD AND WINE

FOOD 5 WAYS | Perfect Prawns WORDS Di von Essen

There’s something about a prawn that is festive. I’m not sure if it’s the colour, or that the shape of their heads resembles a “Santa hat” or if it’s simply that prawns have a tendency to appear on our Christmas tables in copious quantities every year. Whatever it is that makes them festive, this month we celebrate the Prawn in all its glory!

If, like me, you like to sleep then you probably will never be a prawn fisherman (or woman!) While prawns are perfect fare for a bright sunny day, catching them means working through the night. Prawn fishermen must work with nature, fishing in sync with the moon, the tide and thinking like the prawn in order to catch the prawn.

In Australia, the prawn catch is limited by what scientists deem to be sustainable and they adjust their quotas accordingly. On average that equates to 24 Australian prawns per person per year. Did you get yours?

The alternative, of course, is to source prawns from a prawn farm – which are mostly found in the northern parts of Australia, mainly in Queensland where the warmer waters enable the prawns to grow more rapidly. On average 25K tonne of Australian prawns are produced annually with 21K tonne being wild-caught and only 4K tonne produced in Australian prawn farms. Prawn farming requires enormous investment and prawn farms are subject to very strict environmental controls. Farms help even out the peaks and troughs of prawn production.*

Blaxlands Inn Garlic Prawn – Camp Oven Garlic Prawns (sizzling

tiger prawns cooked in a delicious garlic butter, topped with shallots and served in a caste-iron crock pot, accompanied with toasted croutons). + Best Wine Match: 2014 Blaxlands Inn Semillon Sauvignon Blanc. Available by the glass ($8) or bottle ($29.95)

Ridgeview Restaurant Mezedhes Prawn – Prawn Saganaki with toasted sourdough. (Saganaki refers to the process used to prepare the meal. It’s a term applied to various Greek appetizers, which are prepared in a small, two handled heavy bottomed frying pan called a saganaki or sagani). + Best Wine Match: 2008 ‘Ripples’ Rose. Available by the glass ($7) or bottle ($20)

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The Cellar Restaurant BBQ Prawn – Try the entrée sized BBQ Queensland prawns served with kohlrabi (a variety of cabbage with an edible turnip-like swollen stem – looks a bit like a radish), apple and cider mayo and caviar vinaigrette. If you’re a fan of the Char-Grill you can also order the main meal sized Five large char grilled Coffs Harbour prawns (shell on) – straight off the grill. YUM! + Best Wine Match: 2013 David Hook ‘The Gorge’ Pinot Grigio. Available by the glass ($9) or bottle ($35) Oishii Japanese Thai Asian Style Prawn – As you would imagine,

prawns are aplenty at Oishii! Try the Prawn Pad Thai (stir fried rice noodles with prawn, egg, sprouts and peanuts) or, if you like a little heat, then the Red Curry King Prawns (with seasonal vegetables and kaffir lime) will give you the kick you are seeking! + Best Wine Match: 2014 Pokolbin Estate Riesling ($25 from Cellar Door)

Restaurant Cuvee Skewered Prawn – Dukkah crusted prawn skewers with mint, fresh pomegranates, bulgur wheat drizzled with a chilli yoghurt. + Best Wine Match: N/V Peterson House Sparkling Illusion. Available by the glass ($7) or bottle ($18.50 at Cellar Door) *Source: www.australianprawns.com.au

Best Wine matches for Prawns When choosing a wine to match your prawn it’s a must to take into account the way the prawn has been prepared. If the prawn is the hero of the dish then you don’t want to overpower the delicate meaty flesh with your choice of wine – so try a Pinot Grigio or Pinot Gris (in other words an unoaked fresh white).

If Garlic has been introduced to the dish then you can flavour it up a bit with a Semillon or Sauvignon Blanc (or blend). If your dish has a tomato base look at a lighter Rosé or a Sparkling Rosé. If your dish has some heat then balance it with a Dry Riesling.

PK's on Pokolbin

is a locally owned, recently refurbished café with a casual and relaxed atmosphere.

Our outdoor area is perfect for a quick catch up or a long lunch with friends and family, serving barista coffees and an all day breakfast from 8am.

Create your own tasty gourmet toasted Turkish, sandwich or wrap or choose something sweet from our delicious patisserie range.

We can also prepare platters of all sizes to take with you on your wine tasting adventure.

PK's on Pokolbin is conveniently located right next door to the Hunter Valley Visitor Centre, making it the first place you should stop when visiting Wine Country.

PH (02) 4990 4002

455 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin NSW 2320

a must visit!

Epicure Café is an exciting new Café that has opened in the heart of wine country, situated next to renowned Cellar door – The Small Winemakers Centre on McDonald’s Road.

The café has a covered terrace overlooking a picturesque setting and the atmosphere is perfect for those looking for a place to eat breakfast or lunch – and anything in between.

Open daily, they have a great menu showcasing local produce and an extensive Hunter wine list, beers on tap and craft beers by the bottle. If you’re looking for somewhere with a great atmosphere, a cleverly executed menu and wonderful service – this café is one to visit and one to watch!

For bookings PH (02) 4998 6665 E eat@epicurecafe.com.au

OPEN 9AM - 5PM 7 DAYS 2/246 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

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OPENING SOON

cooking methods, but love to evolve the classic techniques that truly showcase the very best in contemporary regional dining.

RENOWNED CHEF

"Hunters Quarter is a dining space with something for everyone whatever the occasion’’ says Chef Brian. ‘’Here diners will discover a contemporary, relaxed and elegant dining experience with welcoming service in the unique and beautiful setting of Cockfighters Ghost Vineyard."

To Open a New Restaurant at Cockfighter’s Ghost Vineyard Chef and Owner Brian Duncan’s philosophy on food is simple - pure flavours through great natural local products handled with techniques that enable the finished product to shine, in both balance of flavour and texture.

Celebrated chef Brian Duncan - formerly of Sydney restaurants 'Establishment' and the three-hatted 'Level 41', is opening a new restaurant named Hunters Quarter (HQ) at Cockfighters Ghost Vineyard on DeBeyers Road in Pokolbin.

Once the venue of one of the Hunter Valley’s most hatted restaurants "Rock Restaurant" which closed in 2011, Hunters Quarter is expected to open in late December or early in the new year.

Brian’s intention is to bring to the Hunter Valley a relaxed dining atmosphere and a menu that sources the best local produce, combined with a skilled kitchen team who have an understanding of traditional

"With the beautiful terrace overlooking the vineyards, it’s the perfect place to while away a few hours with family, friends and of course fantastic food and wine."

Inspired by his international culinary experiences, the award winning chef will be introducing a seasonal menu combining first-class ingredients, with bright, balanced flavours and expert techniques. Brian is passionate about freshness, seasonality and regionalism - using local produce and ingredients whenever possible.

Expect the menu at Hunters Quarter to be about honest, elegant food that reflects the sophistication of the region.

Cockfighters Ghost has always been a popular entertainment and private dining venue. The event options available at Hunters Quarter include weddings, birthday parties and corporate functions with food and wine packages tailored for each individual event. Feel free to contact the events team to discuss more options and details by emailing info@huntersquarter.com.au.

FIRST CREEK TOUR AND TASTING PACKAGES

Hunter Valley 101

Daily Winery Tour:

Join us at 10.30am daily for an entertaining and informative tour of the First Creek winery and bottling line. $5pp.

The perfect introduction for those who want to learn a little more about the Hunter Valley and its wines,complete with gourmet cheese platter!

Bookings essential, $15pp.

The Trophy Tastings:

Experience the best of the best, with a tasting of the trophy winning Winemaker’s Reserve Wines. Bookings essential $30pp.

600 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin. For details visit www.firstcreekwines.com.au or call us on 02 4998 2992.

AWARD WINNING VENUE

LIVE MUSIC AND GREAT FOOD AT POTTERS HOTEL BREWERY RESORT

HOME OF

Voted Best TAB - Country NSW and Best Unique Beer Offering in NSW, Potters Hotel Brewery Resort has it all. Make your next stop in Wine Country something completely different. Live music each weekend and jumping castle for the kiddies on a Sunday.

RELAX BEER

BREWERY

WINE COUNTRY’S FIRST MICRO-BREWERY

BRASSERIE

FOOD

WINE COUNTRY DRIVE, NULKABA NSW 2325 | PH (02) 4991 7922 | WWW.POTTERSHBR.COM.AU

thb 24 | DECEMBER 2015

TOURS

Cellar Door open daily 10am-5pm 576 De Beyers Rd, Pokolbin www. cockfightersghost.com.au

Explore the Hunter To find out more about receiving quality guaranteed Hunter wines from over 60 producers delivered to your door, visit the Wine Selectors counter in the Visitor Information Centre (Wine Country Drive) or call 4990 8206.

6 FREE

stal European cry glasses worth $47.94 when you join the Hunter Valley Release!

Hunt er Valley RELEASES

harkhamwineS harkhamwineS

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CAMPBELLS STORE Morpeth

Free Ginger Beer, Fudge & Honey Tasting awaits you at Campbell’s Store, Morpeth.

Campbell’s Store is the Hunter Valley’s ultimate unique shopping destination & foodies paradise. A leisurely 45 minute drive from Hunter Wine Country, the 175 year old Campbell’s Store houses 10 speciality shops, investment Australian art gallery, collectors museum & tearoom all under one roof.

OPEN Thursday – Sunday & most Public Holidays 10am – 5pm.

(Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day & Boxing Day)

Mention this ad to receive Free: A Morpeth VIP card & offer of the month.

175 Swan Street, Morpeth, NSW 2321 PH 02 4933 1407 • www.campbellsstoremorpeth.com

PETERSON HOUSE PREMIUM SPARKLING WINES

Cellar Door Open 7 days 9am-5pm

Restaurant Cuvée Breakfast 8.30am-11am Lunch 12pm-3pm

Australian Premium Sparkling Wines

The Hunter's

Corner Broke Road & Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin 2320 P 02 4998 7881 www.petersonhouse.com.au www.facebook.com/PetersonHouseltd

Biggest Beer Garden

on the beautiful rolling lawns at Hope Estate.

What better way to celebrate the return of warm weather than kicking back with a tasting paddle of craft beer made on-site at Hope Estate?

With 12 beers on tap there's something for everyone.

It’s a family-friendly vibe, with live music every Saturday & Sunday.

Entry is free except for the Cold Chisel weekend (Saturday 12th December) - you will have to buy a ticket on those days.

Hospitality packages are still available for Cold Chisel’s One Night Stand Concert on Saturday 12th December.

For more information or bookings go to www.hopeestate.com.au or call 1800 777 444.

HOPE ESTATE 2213 Broke Road, Pokolbin | Ph 4993 3555 | www.hopeestate.com.au

thb 26 | DECEMBER 2015

FE[A]STIVE SEASON? The festive season is really ‘feasting’ season for many of us…and all that we have strived hard to achieve throughout the year gets pushed to one side as we attend function after function. You know the stuff that takes a back seat – good nutrition and mindful eating, shedding unwanted kilos and implementing get-fit plans…often with promises of re-committing on that date: 1st January.

But then there are holidays with the kids and Australia Day and suddenly its February… and we are already feeling defeated.

How do you stay on the healthy train without getting de-railed? The concept is simple but it takes hard work and commitment – the changes we make to live a healthier life have to be sustainable for the long term.

So take a moment to sit back and recognise how far you have come and how you will continue to move forward:

•Prioritise your health and well-being – and understand that just a few fe[a]stive weeks can take months to undo.

•Commit to continuing your exercise routine – it is in busy and stressful times that we need exercise and routine even more.

•Recognise that there are days when the journey won’t go to plan. It happens. Don’t beat yourself up. Just get back on track tomorrow.

•Listen to your body – something that we often forget to do. Are we

really hungry or are we thirsty? Do we really want that extra piece of Christmas pudding? Have I moved enough?

•Plan to stay on track and to re-commit every morning. Help others to stay on track – plan time with your gym buddy and plan healthier food options with your family and friends for gatherings.

Above all remember to enjoy the festive season… sensibly.

Article by Nutritionist Mel Overall from Golden Door.

To get back on track during or after the festive season book your stay at Golden Door today, call 1800 212 011 or visit www.goldendoor.com.au

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TICKING BOXES

At the Garden Cellars The Garden Cellars mantra is a simple one - stock a wide variety at affordable prices.

Enter their “must-see” Tunnel of Beer to choose from over 800 different local and imported beers including stouts, ales, lagers, pilsners, porters, light beers and dark beers. But the Garden Cellars isn't just about beer, they also have a huge range of ciders (both Australian and imported) and an enviable range of boutique Hunter Valley and other regional wines, including fortified wines (dessert wines and ports). I think it is fair to say that they’ve ticked the ‘wide variety’ box.

In fact, if you can’t find what you are looking for on their website or in store, just contact the friendly staff and they will endeavour to source it for you (extra tick – great service!).

But what about price? They have great deals on wine gift packs, you can mix your own case or be adventurous and choose a pre-mixed mystery dozen! Great value, affordable prices – tick!

Of course, a visit to The Garden Cellars is not just about picking up a bottle (or two) for dinner – it’s also about the tastings and every weekend there’s a host of treats to ‘try before you buy.’

In December, the focus is on international beer varieties with the second annual International Beer Cup where visitors will be asked to tick a few boxes of their own! Each weekend in December will see tastings of 4 international beers from 16 competing countries, a total of 16 beers from 16 countries over the course of the month. Taste brews from Australia, New Zealand, USA, Mexico, Belgium, Germany, England, Scotland, Netherlands, Czech Republic, France, China, Croatia, Serbia, South Africa and Denmark.

thb 28 | DECEMBER 2015

Tasters will be asked to rate each beer they try from 1-10, and at the end of the month the beer with the highest average score will be declared the champion. A case of this beer will be sent out to one lucky taster.

For more information and to get involved visit The Garden Cellars at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin – or visit the website at www.gardencellars.com.au

Introducing the Hunter Valley's

POKOLBIN ESTATE V I NEYARD

Tempranillo | Nebbiolo | Sangiovese Get your taste for adventure today at ...Pokolbin Estate.

POKOLBIN ESTATE VINEYARD 298 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin | Open 7 Days 9am -5pm PH 4998 7524 | www.pokolbinestate.com.au

Arak Gin Vodkas Premium Apple Lemon Myrtle Vanilla Chilli Coffee Chocolate Caramel Honey Liqueurs Strawberry Ginger Mango Mint Leaf Coconut Rum Choc Mint Turkish Delight Coffee Cherry Schnapps Blackberry Butterscotch

Hunter Distillery is the only locally owned and operated certified organic distillery in the Hunter Valley wine region of New South Wales.

We use premium quality organic raw ingredients to produce an exceptional range of top shelf spirits.

Our multi award winning spirits include Gin, Vodka, Liqueurs and Schnapps.

Open for tastings and sales 7 days, 10am - 5pm 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin 2320 • PH (02) 4998 6737 info@hunterdistillery.com.au • www.hunterdistillery.com.au

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WINE VARIETY

Sparkling Wine One of life’s Necessities “I drink it when I’m happy and when I’m sad. Sometimes I drink it when I’m alone. When I have company, I consider it obligatory. I trifle with it if I’m not hungry and drink it when I am. Otherwise I never touch it. Unless I’m thirsty.” - Madame Lily Bollinger ‘’Come brothers, hurry, I am drinking stars!” This was Dom Perignon’s famous quote after his first taste of Champagne, and a fairly accurate description of what a good Champagne or sparkling wine experience should offer.

As we roll into the festive season, you can be sure we will soon all be hearing the ''popping'' of corks as bottles of sparkling wine are opened to celebrate Christmas and the coming of the New Year.

Whatever the occasion, we have adopted the habit of celebrating with sparkling wine and are reaching for this ''bubbly wine'' like never before. So brace yourself for the sound of enthusiastic cork popping as we get down to the business end of the bubbles this festive season.

Sparkling wine is simply wine with significant levels of carbon dioxide in it making it fizzy. The carbon dioxide may result from natural fermentation either in a bottle, as with the Traditional Method (Méthode Traditionelle), in a large tank designed to withstand the pressures involved (as in the Charmat Process), or as a result of carbon dioxide injection.

‘5 Red Stars For Excellence’

James Halliday’s Wine Companion

358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin tamburlaine.com.au

Sparkling wine is usually white or rosé but there are many examples of red sparkling wines as well. In Australia, most sparkling wine is produced from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, but an Australian specialty is Sparkling Shiraz - a red sparkling wine produced from Shiraz grapes. The sweetness of sparkling wine can range from very dry "brut" styles to sweeter "doux" varieties.

A little known fact, and something most appreciators of sparkling wine would not be aware of, is that sparkling wines were originally winemaking accidents - probably made over time by monks in the Champagne region of France.

It would occur when the winemaker, whilst in the process of making wine, would bottle and seal the wine thinking the fermentation process was complete. But, when sugar was still present in the bottle, along with a few living yeast cells, a second fermentation would occur and because the bottle was sealed, the carbon dioxide gas would be trapped and when the bottle was opened the wine would be effervescent (bubbling) as well as cloudy from the yeast residue. While drinkers came to love the gassy wine, they were less happy with the cloudiness.

from Adina Vineyard Whether it’s a cool Pinot Gris, a luscious chilled Verdelho, or a brilliant sparkling Chardonnay/Pinot Noir that takes your fancy, you will find the line-up of Adina’s white wines just perfect for summer enjoyment.

Taste and buy at our cellar door – we are open 7 days from 10am to 5pm. Enjoy!

You can also buy online for delivery to your home or office.

Fortunately modern winemakers are able to manage the process and you can be confident in the quality of modern sparkling wines.

The best, and most expensive wines are made by the Méthode Traditionelle, which is how all French Champagne is made. With the Méthode Traditionelle, the secondary fermentation occurs in the bottle.

The wine is matured on yeast lees before riddling (hand-turning the bottles sequentially in order to encourage the lees to settle in the neck), removal of lees, disgorgement, dosage and sealing the bottle. The aromas and flavours of true Méthode Traditionelle wines come not only from the variety of grapes used, but also from the yeast in the bottle.

The longer the yeast are in contact with the wine, the more intense and complex these yeasty characters will become.

Sparkling white wine can be enjoyed with just about any meal, although pairing it with seafood, tapas or other hors d'oeuvres is the perfect way to get a party started.

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VINEYARD

492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale PH 02 49 307 473 www.adinavineyard.com.au

Organic Wine

Great Tasting • Award Winning • Certified Organic

Enjoy award-winning wines with the best view in the Hunter Valley.

Cellar Door open 10am - 5pm De Beyers Rd, Pokolbin | audreywilkinson.com.au

PASSION

TASTE

ASCELLA is the largest family owned certified organic vineyard in the Hunter Valley.

Located in the pristine Broke Fordwich region, Geoff and Barb welcome you to their picturesque Country Cellar Door. We are committed to maintaining a balanced, chemical free and sustainable environment.

Become a Friend of Ascella or an Organic Partner and have access to great prices for highly awarded wines, and fantastic rewards.

Join us for Jack’s Barbeque in the Orchard weekends and holidays, a unique kick back and relax experience.

OPEN 7 days a week

Please text or call 02 6574 5275 or 0431 357 105 www.ascellawine.com | sales@ascellawine.com

Much more than a Vineyard.

Our Matilda range is made up of easy drinking styles that are produced for your enjoyment.

Come Waltzing with Matilda...

205 Gillards Road, Pokolbin • PH 4998 7887 www.constablevineyards.com.au

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THE

SPARKLING DOZEN PREMIUM MOSCATO First Creek Wines

2009 METHODE CHAMPENOISE Stonehurst Wines

Amongst the First Creek range of premium still wines, the Sparkling Moscato is all about fun, festive season, easy drinking!

A great wine begins in the vineyard and Stonehurst Wines are committed to producing quality fruit through sustainable viticulture, with no insecticides and only organically approved fungicides used. The quality of the fruits flavours is enhanced as the vines are grown on elevated split canopy trellising, which captures sunlight and air flow.

Made from muscat grapes, with a tinge of pink, this is a perfect summer drink to enjoy with friends. You will find fragrant aromas of sweet berry and rose petals, balanced with a crisp palate and refreshing spritz.

Purchase three bottles or more of the First Creek Sparkling Moscato during December for only $15 a bottle - a saving of 25%.

The First Creek Sparkling Moscato is available from the First Creek cellar door at 600 McDonalds Road. Phone 4998 2992, or buy online at www. firstcreekwines.com.au

The 2009 Méthode Champenoise is very French in style, decidedly brut Chardonnay-Semillon. 6 years En Tirage has resulted in this wine possessing a fresh, slightly fruity nose, a richly flavoured creamy palate with good length, a dry finish and very fine bead. Perfect with canapés.

Cellaring Drink now to 2020.

2015 BLANC DE BLANCS Gartelmann Wines

METHODE TRADITIONELLE ROSE Calais Estate

The 2015 Blanc de Blancs is a contemporary style of Australian sparkling wine with a clean mineral fresh nose with hints of lemon, grapefruit and light toastiness. The palate shows sherbet and lime characters with a creamy, almost nutty complexity and mouth feel. The finish is dry, long, persistent and generous.

The Calais Sparkling range is very small and consists of small parcels of fruit hand-crafted onsite in the French traditional method. Our sparkling’s are matured on lees for a minimum of 9 months and hand riddled then disgorged, resulting in stunning hand-crafted sparkling wines.

Clean and fresh flavours make this wine the perfect pre-dinner aperitif style to be served with freshly shucked oysters, smoked salmon and trout pate.

Alternatively, serve between courses much like a sorbet, cleanses the palate for further gastronomic delights.

Cellaring Drink now or cellar until 2020 for a guaranteed smooth “honey” or until 2024 for maximum aging.

Displaying the most fruit of our Sparkling range, our Rosé is ‘demi-sec’ in dosage. A Chardonnay base with a Chambourcin dosage creates a refreshing drink with hints of strawberries - an excellent bubbly for a champagne breakfast.

Cellaring Enjoy now or any time over the next 4 to 5 years.

2013 CHARDONNAY PINOT NOIR Pierres Wines

BELLINI Oakvale Wines

The 2013 Chardonnay Pinot Noir is a blend of 65% Chardonnay and 35% Pinot Noir grapes from our own estate vineyard. The wine is a “zero dosage” style, which means that no sugar is added at disgorging. It is our best selling sparkling wine.

Our family-owned boutique winery is breathing new life into the traditional winery scene with a passion for viticultural practices and minimal intervention winemaking. Our premium handcrafted wines are sold exclusively through our cellar door, specialising in Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Bellini and gourmet Ciders.

The complex aroma illustrates the range of characters found in true méthode traditionnelle wines. On the palate the wine is rich and refined.

24 months aging on lees in the bottle gives the wine a very long palate with a soft and satisfying creamy texture.

The natural acidity provides a freshness, which makes it an ideal aperitif.

Oakvale’s Bellini is a supreme cocktail in a bottle.

Refreshing juicy aromas of hand pitted white peaches gives this sparkling wine a bright vibrant semi-dry finish, an excellent alternative to the standard bubbles.

Perfect for summer picnics, brunches, romantic dinners, hot tubs (or wherever your imagination takes you…)

Cellaring Enjoy it now.

thb 32 | DECEMBER 2015

THE

SPARKLING DOZEN 2012 EMMA’S BUBBLES Macquariedale Organic Wines

SPARKLING PURE VESCENCE Ascella Organic Wine

This elegant wine has been produced from a blend of Chardonnay 90% grapes with an additional 10% of Pinot Noir. The grapes were picked in early February and co-fermented to dryness. The wine was cellared in bottle with yeast lees for over 2 years before final disgorging and concentrate addition. This is a truly magnificent vintage sparkling fully developed with a luminous bouquet, remarkably smooth and generous on the palate.

Ascella is the largest certified organic vineyard in the Hunter Valley. All Ascella Organic Wines are made using only organic grapes from their secluded vineyard located in the pristine Broke Fordwich region, where they are committed to maintaining a balanced, chemical free and sustainable environment.

These Bubbles have a delightful yeasty bread bouquet and summer fruit flavours on the palate which is clean and long. The small bead (bubble) is indicative of a fine Méthode Champenoise wine.

Cellaring Drink now in celebration of all that is good around us!

With the expertise of multiple award-winning winemaker Liz Jackson, Ascella continues to produce great tasting, award-winning wines.

This wonderful Sparkling Rosé has a tropical fruit nose with a zesty and refreshing palate. Most often described as delicious and yummy! Celebrate the Holidays with a glass of Ascella Pure Vescence.

Cellaring Enjoy now but can be cellared.

2013 SPARKLING CHAMBOURCIN Misty Glen Wines

2011 MILESTONE SPARKLING RED Iron Gate Estate

Misty Glen located in the heart of Pokolbin, features a boutique 16 acre Vineyard, Cellar Door and three bedroom self-contained Cottage. The vineyard produces five grape varietals; Semillon, Chardonnay, Chambourcin, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, which are created into both traditional and unusual wine styles.

Iron Gate Estate offer true Hunter wines, produced only from grapes grown in their own 25 acre vineyard and carefully picked by hand. The winery is nothing less than state of the art with the very latest technology in wine-making and is designed to enable small parcels of selected grapes to be crafted individually to provide the highest possible quality.

The first customer to taste it described it as dangerously good, once you try it you’ll keep coming back for more. Vibrant ruby colour with flavours of mulberry and blackcurrant which linger with a gentle fruity finish. Serve chilled.

A great accompaniment to Christmas lunch or enjoy with a barbeque, a platter of cheese or even with a dessert.

The Milestone Sparkling Red is a 50/50 blend of Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine has had no oak contact and has not been sweetened. It is the ideal aperitif if you prefer red wine.

The Milestone Sparkling Red shows lovely enhanced fruit characteristics and for maximum enjoyment should be served cold.

Cellaring Drink now to 2017

2012 ‘THE SONSE’ TRADITIONAL METHOD CHARDONNAY Capercaillie Wines This Blanc de Blanc traditional method wine has been made exclusively from Chardonnay. A cool 14 day ferment with a neutral yeast strain and maturation in 2 year old French oak barriques has produced a restrained base wine, displaying fresh apple and citrus aromas.

The wine underwent tirage in November 2012 and was disgorged after 2 years on yeast lees, giving the wine another dimension, adding texture and a layer of creaminess to the mouth feel.

Normally retailing for $45 per bottle, mention this wine feature at the Cellar Door during December to purchase a bottle for only $36 per bottle – that’s 20% off!

FUCHS SPARKLING CUVEE Sandalyn Wilderness Estate Sandalyn Wilderness Estate is a family-owned and operated boutique winery situated in Lovedale, Hunter Valley. All Sandalyn Estate and Fuchs Wines are made from estate grown and locally produced grapes of the highest quality and are only available online, at the cellar door, selected restaurants and specialty wine outlets.

The Fuchs Sparkling Cuvee is made from an awardwinning blend of Chardonnay and Semillon, with the wine honouring the family’s 200 year history in viticulture and horticulture. Natural fermentation using traditional methods has resulted in a wine that is rich in flavour with a delicious crisp finish.

This wine is ideal as a refreshing festive celebratory wine.

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COMING UP

January + February

06 -26

03

17

13

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SPECTACULAR at Hunter Valley Gardens

BROKE VILLAGE MARKET McNamara Park, Broke

SACRED TREE MARKETS Old St Brigids School Grounds, Branxton

JOHN MELLANCAMP SUPPORTED BY JEWEL at Roche Estate

NOV

JAN

JAN

JAN

The Hunter Valley is in for a treat when the legendary John Mellancamp performs at Roche Estate, supported by singer/ songwriter Jewel and country artist Carlene Carter.

Every year Hunter Valley Gardens bring thousands of families together to celebrate the magic of Christmas at the Christmas Lights Spectacular.

Open every night with over 1.5 million Christmas lights on show throughout designated areas of the Hunter Valley Gardens. With sound and light displays, live entertainment, food and beverages available for purchase on site and a special appearance from Santa, this is an event for all ages. Also up until Christmas, have your photo taken with Santa by a professional photographer. Closed December 25th. For more information and tickets visit www.hvg.com.au

02 -26 JAN

JAN

MEGA CREATURES at Hunter Valley Gardens

Do your kids love all things creepy crawly? Or maybe they are fascinated by prehistoric predators? During the January school holidays, Hunter Valley Gardens will become home to Mega Creatures!

See giant animatronic Mega Bugs such as beetles, centipedes, cicadas and snails and the brand new Mega Dinosaurs including a T-Rex, Stegosaurus, Triceratops, Spinosaurus and loads more.

thb 34 | DECEMBER 2015

FEB

26

26

AUSTRALIA DAY CELEBRATIONS at Civic Park, Singleton

WOLLOMBI AUSTRALIA DAY MARKET at Wollombi Saleyards

JAN

JAN

Celebrate Australia Day 2016 in Singleton with markets and entertainment on the Civic Centre Green and the Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony at the Civic Centre.

Live performances will be held celebrating a mix of cultures and styles and there will be a variety of market stalls and food stalls operating throughout the day, these will include craft, clothing and a variety of other interesting wares. Food stalls will offer a delicious choice of healthy food options.

For more information visit www.singleton.nsw.gov.au

The Mega Creatures event is run in conjunction with the Christmas Lights Spectacular and is open from 9.00am - 4pm & 6.30pm 10.00pm every day.

Discover the world of Mega Creatures in January and take advantage of two family friendly events for the price of one.

For more information visit www.hvg.com.au

Mellancamp is well known to Aussie audiences for songs such as Jack & Diane, Cherry Bomb and R.O.C.K in the USA. Mellencamp will be supported by Alaskan singer-songwriter Jewel, who since her debut Pieces of You in 1995, has established herself as one of the most successful musicians of her generation.

For more information or tickets go to www.rocheestate.com.au

06 FEB

A DAY ON THE GREEN WITH DIANA KRALL at Bimbadgen Estate Five-time Grammy Award winning jazz pianist and world-renowned singer, Diana Krall is returning to the Hunter Valley this summer in support of her latest album, Wallflower.

20 FEB

A DAY ON THE GREEN WITH SIMPLY RED at Bimbadgen Estate

Special guest will be the exquisite Katie Noonan, whose technical mastery and pure voice has made her one of Australia’s most versatile and beloved vocalists.

This 4 x ARIA Award winning and 7 x platinum selling songstress first received widespread praise as the angel-voiced songstress of indie-pop band George and has since taken audiences on sublime excursions through Jazz, Pop and Classical music.

Simply Red are back with a world tour and a brand new album, ‘Big Love’.

For more information visit www.adayonthegreen.com.au

For more information visit www.adayonthegreen.com.au

The Big Love Tour lands in Australia in February with a special guest who is one of Australia’s mostloved performers, the fabulous Tina Arena, returning to the winery stages for the first time since 2010.

Also performing will be Natalie Imbruglia - don’t miss this all-star line-up!

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HunterValleyShopping.com.au

Shopping Village Shop AUSTRALIAN ALPACA BARN specialises in quality Australian Alpaca fashion, homewares and accessories. Alpaca coats, sweaters, shawls, scarves, gloves, socks, beanies, throw rugs, bedding, yarn and alpaca toys.

PEPPERS CREEK ANTIQUES An exquisite array of spectacular jewellery, stylish watches, amazing giftware and homewares. Gifts for all ages and occasions collected from all corners of the world.

CANDELABRA One of Australia's most famous boutique candle stores - the stunning fragrances, colour and endless variety of product is truly amazing.

HUNTER VALLEY CHRISTMAS SHOP Nestled in the heart of the Hunter Valley, is a magic land where it is Christmas every day of the year!

PULP ADDICTION Satisfy your paper cravings with our delightful range of designer stationery which is guaranteed to intrigue and delight.

THE TWIG A gorgeous selection of home furnishings and personal giftware unlike anything else on offer in the valley.

THE WAITERS FRIEND A great selection of quality kitchenware and barware and some of the best prices anywhere in Australia.

VILLAGE BOOKS A fantastic range of fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books and a unique collection of quality toys, games, souvenirs and gifts.

WILSON & HUNTER All the latest fashion from Camilla, Mela Purdie, Verge, Katherine, Samantha Wills, Metalicus, Bleu Blanc Rouge,Tilly Rose,Tolani and more…

WINE GLASS GALLERY An extraordinary gift gallery… colourful, handmade and crystal wine glasses, original artworks, homewares, new season scarves & handbags, jewellery, shot glasses, magnets, souvenirs & much more.

Dine AND THE WINNER IS OSCARS We are a family friendly café serving honest wholesome food and great coffee, in a casual relaxed environment. We are opened for breakfast, lunch and everything in between. Our menu is available dine in or take away and is sure to impress. Phone 4998 7355 HUNTER VALLEY CUPCAKES & CAFÉ Relax & enjoy a light breakfast, a tasty lunch or just indulge with the delicious gourmet cakes & speciality cupcakes plus a great coffee or tea!

TASTE OF THE COUNTRY Experience a Taste of the Country in this award winning café and retail outlet. This popular café is like walking into an old fashioned, country kitchen. Phone 4998 6605.

THE CELLAR RESTAURANT Rustic Mediterranean cuisine in a relaxed, friendly environment. Open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday. Bookings recommended.

Phone 4998 7584.

Pamper ZEN HAIR SKIN BODY A full Hairdressing Salon and Beauty Spa in one location, innovative & deluxe treatments in an environmentally friendly setting, the salon can cater to any need. Phone 4998 6844.

Play AQUA GOLF & PUTT PUTT If you fancy a bit of action then visit our Aqua Golf and Putt Putt Golf Course - fun for the whole family! Win cash & prizes! Phone 4998 7896.

Savour HUNTER VALLEY CHOCOLATE COMPANY Established more than ten years ago the ORIGINAL Hunter Valley Chocolate Company & Fudge Factory is one of the premier attractions in the area.

HUNTER VALLEY COOKIES Hand-made premium cookies in designer gourmet flavours.

Cookie tastings daily, delicious coffee and gluten free cookies.

HUNTER VALLEY LIQUEURS & BAERAMI OLIVES Extra virgin olive oils, infused olive oils, vinegars and a large range of specialty liqueurs and an impressive array of bottles to customize your selection.

THE BRITISH LOLLY SHOP The largest range of imported English Confectionary. All your old favourites, humbugs, sherbet lemon, come in and sample our hospitality.

THE GARDEN CELLARS Mount Eyre/ Three Ponds Cellar Door. See the Tunnel Of Beer or taste 17 flavoured organic vodkas.

NEW! HUNTER HONEY HIVE Everything Honey and Bee related! Free tastings daily.

Essentials YE OLDE GENERAL STORE A modern convenience store with a twist of yesteryear.

Full of groceries and curiosity.

POKOLBIN VILLAGE PHARMACY Offering you friendly, professional service as well as a wide range of products: full PBS prescription service, medicines, vitamins, skin care, cosmetics, hair care, fragrances, sunglasses and much more. Phone 4998 6677.

Shopping Village BROKE ROAD, POKOLBIN • OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 10AM