The Hunter Blackboard | June 2015

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

JUNE 2015 | ISSUE #100

THE

BLACKBOARD

ISSUE! Annual Hunter Valley celebration The Great Aussie Food revolution Hunter Valley Classic Wines HunterValleyOnline.com.au

June

F O R YO U R

Diary

THE HUNTER BLACKBOARD IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH...

1ST JUNE - 30TH JUNE | HUNTER VALLEY WINE AND FOOD MONTH | Throughout the Hunter Valley | This much anticipated annual event showcases the region’s diverse wine

and food culture with a month-long series of themed activities throughout June. Hunter Valley Wine & Food Month provides you with the opportunity to wine and dine with leading Hunter Valley Winemakers and chefs, take part in an array of fun and interactive classes to test your culinary skills or, if you’re after a more relaxing experience simply curl up beside an open fire with a glass of premium Hunter Valley wine and a cheese plate. Hunter Valley Wine and Food Month will be the perfect antidote to cure those winter blues. Visit www.winecountry.com.au for more information on events happening around the Valley.

THURSDAY 4TH JUNE | MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL ROADSHOW | Cessnock Performing Arts Centre | Be prepared for plenty of laughs as

the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow brings the best home-grown local talent and international superstars from this year’s festival to Cessnock. Now in its 15th year, the Roadshow continues to grow, with the show travelling to over 75 destinations around Australia and this year to Singapore and Hong Kong - bringing the Festival’s highlights to over 80,000 eager comedy lovers. If you need a good laugh, do not miss the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow as it promises to be an unforgettable night of untamed hilarity. For more information, visit www.cessnockperformingartscentre.com.au

FRIDAY 5TH - SUNDAY 7TH JUNE | MERRIWA FESTIVAL OF THE FLEECES | Merriwa Held over the June long weekend, and celebrating 25 years in 2015, the Merriwa Festival of the Fleeces is an annual event to commemorate the area’s involvement with the Australian Wool Industry. The highlight of the festival, and not seen anywhere else in the world, is the Running of the Sheep with over 200 sheep wearing red woollen socks leading the parade down the main street. The Festival begins with an Opening Night Celebration on the Friday, and follows on the Saturday with a range of activities including Market stalls, shearing demonstrations, a children’s petting zoo plus more. All money raised at this family-friendly event goes to the Merriwa Volunteers Rescue Association and Westpac Rescue Helicopter.

For more information visit www.upperhuntertourism.com.au/merriwa

20TH JUNE - 12TH JULY | SNOW TIME IN THE GARDENS | Hunter Valley Gardens

Chill out these school holidays at Snow Time in the Gardens. Enjoy everything this winter wonderland has to offer with the real ice skating rink and toboggan run, and then play in the man-made snow! There will be lots of fun for the whole family with games, husky dogs and the amazing ice sculptor carving something incredible on weekends! There will also be warm beverages and hearty food to warm you up. This is a day and night event running from 9am – 9pm every day. All events are free after entry to the gardens. For the full program and tickets visit www.hvg.com.au

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SPECIAL OFFERS AVAILABLE from 1st June 2015 until the 30th June 2015 inclusive or while stocks last.

FRIDAY 19TH – SUNDAY 21ST JUNE | DISNEY ON ICE: DARE TO DREAM | Newcastle Entertainment Centre | Experience the beauty, sparkle and spirit when Disney on Ice presents Dare to Dream at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre. Celebrating 75 years of Disney princess stories, join Disney Princess Rapunzel as she embarks on a hair raising escapade with Flynn, travel to the enchanted forest with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, watch Cinderella’s dreams come true as she meets her Prince Charming and celebrate the story of the Princess and the Frog with Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen.

The grand finale sees some of your favourite princesses taking to the ice in a spectacular performance at the ultimate Disney Princess event of a lifetime! For more information and tickets visit www.disneyonice.com.au

SUNDAY 28TH JUNE | THE COLOR RUN™ | Newcastle Jockey Club, Broadmeadow

Are you ready? The Happiest 5k on the Planet is coming to Newcastle Jockey Club on Sunday 28th June. Get your friends together for a unique experience focused less on speed and more on crazy colour fun! The Color Run is a five kilometre, un-timed race in which thousands of participants, or “Color Runners”, are doused from head to toe in different colours at different stages of the course. The fun continues after the race, with the Finish Festival; a larger than life party equipped with music, dancing and massive colour throws, which create vivid colour combinations. For more information and ticket sales visit www.thecolorrun.com.au

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FROM THE Editors It’s amazing to look back over the years to all the changes to the Hunter Valley over the years and particularly since we brought out the very first issue of The Hunter Blackboard in 2007! Now – 100 issues on – we have many more wineries, restaurants and of course plenty of activities and new events and we’ve been lucky enough to report on them all over the years.

We are so proud to have been able to bring all of this to our readers – both local and visitors – for 100 issues of The Hunter Blackboard! Happy Birthday Hunter Blackboard – let’s drink to the next 100!!

Of course June is one of the best month’s to visit the Hunter Valley—it is certainly one of the best month’s to live here! It’s warm throughout the day but chilly enough in the evenings to crank up the open fire and enjoy one of the Hunter Valley classic wines while toasting one’s toes! In this issue we look at four of the varieties of wine that the Hunter Valley is perhaps best known for...Semillon, Chardonnay, Shiraz and Merlot. Find out all about the history of each variety, how best (and how long) to keep it, how to match it to your meal and more importantly our top pick for each variety.

Snow Time in the Gardens gets underway this month. Take the kids along (or not!) for a frolic in the snow, ride a toboggan or lace up some skates for some time on the rink. Take in a Husky race or check out the Ice Sculpting - its loads of fun for kids young and old!

June is Wine & Food month in the Hunter Valley and there’s a plethora of special events with a wine & food focus to enjoy. Even our local markets are getting into the food & wine swing with a focus on stalls providing related items.

We’ve chosen our favourite events to enjoy over this month, ranging from progressive tours & lunches to learning how to create your favourite fare.

Hopefully we’ll be able to catch each and every event over the month and we’ll roll out the other end with a few new skills (and some additional winter padding!)

Imagine the changes that have taken place in the Hunter Valley over the past 200 plus years and you can bet that the Australian food scene has undergone just as many. From cook to Executive Chef, bush tucker to dukkha, in this issue we take a look at Australia’s evolution into a modern, multi-culturally influenced nation of food lovers.

One of the biggest trends over the last decade has been towards “clean and green.” Dramatic changes to our planet have changed the way we think about what we drink (including water) and the food we eat which has changed the way we produce and farm. In this issue we learn why “clean and green” is the mantra of today.

H U N T E R

V A L L E Y

CIRCA 1876 - Modern Australian ‘Soul Food’ … with a Twist!

Executive Chef George Francisco’s ‘Soul food’ bent on modern Australian cuisine sees a deep appreciation for the freshest seasonal produce, and a philosophy of no waste – whether it is bean, bee, or beast. Soul food has a rich culinary tradition born out of necessity and innovation, an amalgamation of African, European, and early American resources and preparations for which George is a passionate advocate - and further adds his own distinct French cooking influences.

In the midst of the abundant Hunter Valley, George embraces time-tested principals of a farm fresh, produce-driven menu by growing the majority of his produce onsite, within view of diners. As fresh as it gets!

Putting this issue together has certainly made us all excited about getting out there and tasting the treats on offer... we hope you enjoy it too!

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HIGHLIGHTS

CHEFS CHOICE

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AUSTRALIA’S FOOD REVOLUTION From cook to executive chef, bush tucker to dukkah, we take a look at Australia’s evolution into a modern multi-culturally influenced nation of food lovers!

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Want to enjoy an affordable set price lunch at some of the Hunter Valley’s best restaurants? We will show you where!

WINE & FOOD EXPERIENCES IN JUNE

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HUNTER BLACKBOARD MAP

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CLEAN & GREEN | Organic & Biodynamic

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Its Wine & Food month in the Hunter Valley and there’s a plethora of special events with a wine & food focus to enjoy. We have shared a few of our favourites…

A popular addition to each and every issue. Use it to find your way around Wine Country…

Winemaking | Dramatic changes to our planet have changed the way we think about winemaking…

FOUR HUNTER VALLEY CLASSICS

Chardonnay, Semillon, Shiraz & Merlot… Up close & personal – including our top picks!

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64 Halls Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 Phone 02 4998 4998 | www.circa1876.com 3 | JUNE 2015 thb

THINGS TO DO

June OCEAN TO PADDOCK

OCEAN TO PADDOCK WINEMAKER'S DINNER

Executive Chef Donna Hollis draws inspiration from the local culinary offerings to bring you a seven course degustation, matched with RidgeView wines.

Meet the RidgeView crew and embark on a gastronomic journey up the valley - from the Ocean to the Paddock.

Saturday 13th June 6.30pm | $125 per person (includes paired wines) | Bookings Essential.

Enjoy a Chef’s Plate Lunch and a glass of wine for just $39!

Cypriot spiced lamb chop & chicken souvlaki on a tomato caraway puree served with Greek salad, tzatziki & cinnamon sweet potato accompanied by a glass of 2007 Shiraz or 2011 Merlot.

Finish with a Greek style cheesecake with caramelised pineapple & honey cinnamon reduction.

Available Thursday to Sunday 12pm – 5.30pm throughout June | Bookings essential.

RidgeView, 273 Sweetwater Road, Pokolbin www.ridgeview.com.au | 6574 7332

Winemaker’s Dinner

On Saturday 13th June, the Ridgeview team lead by Executive Chef Donna Hollis bring you their annual Ocean to Paddock Winemaker’s Dinner - a seven course degustation utilising the onsite garden, in addition to the freshest local produce available.

The seven-course menu will see your tastebuds travel from the ocean with pan seared scallops, local salmon goujon and tempura garlic prawns before proceeding to the paddock with twice cooked Nulkaba chicken ballotine, oven baked lamb rack and the perfect winter warmer, slow braised beef cheek.

The menu will culminate with vanilla cheesecake with cinnamon roasted pineapple, fresh whipped cream and a tangy lime syrup.

Owner and winemaker, Darren Scott, has personally matched his award winning, single estate wines to Donna’s set-menu to complete this ocean to paddock gastronomical journey.

The Ocean to Paddock Winemaker’s Dinner will be held at RidgeView Restaurant on June 13 at 6.30pm; $125 per person (includes paired wines). Bookings essential on 6574 7332 or visit www.ridgeview.com.au Ridgeview Restaurant are also offering a Chef’s Plate special in June. Available Thursday to Sunday (12pm – 5.30pm), the Ridgeview Chef’s Plate is $39 a person and includes Cypriot-style lamb and chicken souvlaki skewers on a tomato caraway puree with cinnamon sweet potato, tzatziki, and a Greek salad matched with a glass of 2011 Merlot or 2007 Shiraz. Finishing with a Greek style cheesecake with caramelised pineapple and honey cinnamon reduction.

the perfect wine country dining experience

in june wine and food month, éléments restaurant presents:

THE HORS D’EUVRES HOUR along with a complimentary glass of french fizz, sample the ever changing hors d’oeuvres created by french born executive chef jean marc pollet and his éléments kitchen team. enjoy classics and even talk culinary history and french cookery methods with jean marc. every friday and saturday night 5- 6pm $15 pp @ éléments restaurant. bookings are essential.

Mercure Complex, Corner Broke & Mcdonalds Rd’s, Pokolbin | PH 4998-2000 for reservations

The Hors d’oeuvres Hour To celebrate the Hunter Valley’s Wine & Food month, classic French delicacies will be served fireside at Eléments Bar & Dining, Mercure Resort, Hunter Valley Gardens, every Friday & Saturday night in June.

For only $15 per person, enjoy a complimentary glass of French fizz and sample the ever changing Hors d’oeuvres created by French born Executive Chef Jean Marc Pollet and his Eléments kitchen team.

From escargot to confit duck or even croquet monsieur, each night will be a different selection of 3 tasty morsels to whet your appetite.

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French-born Jean Marc has been in Australia for the past 28 years, is well known for his pioneering efforts to put the Hunter Valley on the map as a food and wine destination. He has been with Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens for 6 years and is one of Hunter Valley’s most respected chefs.

Enjoy your Hors d’oeuvres and even discuss French cookery methods with Jean Marc Pollet 5pm – 6pm every Friday and Saturday in June.

Bookings essential. Visit www.mercurehuntervalley.com.au or call 4998 2000 for more information.

JOIN THE FUN AT HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS THESE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

MY 2015 9A L U J 2 1 E

Y 9PM DAIL

20 JUN

ALL L ACTIVITISTED IES ARE

There’s no time like Snow Time!

Daily Activities

Specific Dates

Day & Night Ice Skating on our undercover REAL ICE RINK Undercover REAL ICE TOBOGGAN

Snow Time Play Zone Snow Ball Challenge Giant Snow Globe

See website for dates

FREE AFTER P A ENTRY ID

Husky Racing Demos Live Ice Sculpting

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

Join us for updates & giveaways

Broke Road Pokolbin - Ph: 02 4998 4000

Gardens open 9am - 5pm. Limited activities from 5pm – 9pm daily. This event will not open in adverse weather conditions. Admission charges apply. Program subject to change.

ICE ICE BABY!

It’s Snow Time in the Garden…

On Saturday June 20th, Hunter Valley Gardens will transform into a Winter Wonderland as ‘Snow Time in the Garden’ kicks off. The event runs for 3 huge weeks this year, from June 20th to July 12th with loads of fun activities on offer in the same venue, it is guaranteed fun for the whole family.

Children and adults alike can enjoy all things winter, without having to travel to the snow! Whether you want to be part of the husky racing demonstrations, go tobogganing or watch an amazing ice sculpture be carved from scratch, it is the perfect school holiday fun as there really is something for everyone!

Go Ice Skating… Daily 10am-9pm... Kick off your Snow Time fun with a spin around a real ice skating rink, fitted with disco lights and music!

Skating sessions will run for 20 minutes and can fit up to 200 skaters at any time. With sessions starting at 10.00am every day, and skating equipment provided, make sure you don’t miss out!

Ice Sculptures… Every Saturday & Sunday 11.00am & 2.00pm… See the amazing Kenji Ogawa who specialises in large scale sculptures carved out of snow and ice. Kenji has carved frozen waterfalls, lakes and even icebergs around the world. Kenji produces traditional hand-made ice sculptures with a chainsaw and has done many large scale ice sculpting demonstrations on stage. Do not miss out on seeing Kenji in action sculpting moose, penguins, bears and kangaroos!

track. This super fun ice slide has toboggans provided and is designed for both children and adults.

Husky Racing Demonstrations… Come and see the amazing husky dogs and their trainers as they show you what these amazing animals can do! You’ll see how the huskies react to voice commands, how they are harnessed and how they are trained to run in teams. These dogs and their trainers are international competitors, so it’s definitely not one to miss (note this is a day event and is on specified dates—see website for details) Giant Snow Globe… This new feature (available during the day only) holds up to 9 children and allows both kids and adults to go inside this life-size inflatable snow globe and get some great family happy snaps!

The family fun doesn’t stop here! Other activities throughout the event include the Snow Ball Challenge, Snow Time Face Painting, Storybook Garden Jumping Castle, Roaming Entertainment, a Snow Time Play Zone and more! And for those wanting a bite to eat, there will be a range of food and beverages on offer in Frosty’s Food Court.

With loads on offer, you won’t want to miss this fun event. For more information and to buy your tickets online, visit www.hvg.com.au

Real Ice Toboggan… Daily 10am – 9pm… Have you got a need for speed?

Get your blood pumping as you speed down the 25 metre toboggan

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CHEF’S CHOICE plate Enjoy a set price lunch at some of the Hunter Valley’s best restaurants, where for just $39 you can enjoy a main meal with a glass of Hunter Valley wine.

The Verandah Restaurant

Join Chef Bryan Anton with a Trio of Tapas – Green olive and sweet potato arancini with Semillon, crisp snapper with green curry coconut sambal with Verdelho and sticky bourbon pork belly with Shiraz.

Bookings essential.

WHEN Every Thursday to Sunday in June, 12pm - 3pm.

WHERE The Verandah Restaurant, 151 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin.

PH 4998 7231.

Restaurant Eighty Eight – Food for the Soul

Executive Chef George Francisco is serving up a natural lunch at Restaurant Eighty Eight. Enjoy a “tonic” of fresh juice especially made from the restaurant’s organic garden followed by special main dish and a glass of Roscrea Estate wine. Bookings essential.

WHEN Daily in June, 12pm - 2.30pm.

WHERE Restaurant Eighty Eight, 88 Halls Road, Pokolbin.

PH 4998 4999.

Restaurant Cuvee

Enjoy Chef Chad Pridue’s daily Chef’s Selection Tasting Plate and sample a variety of small tastings of local Hunter Valley produce - also featuring a Peterson House Sparkling Wine. Bookings essential.

WHEN Daily in June, 12pm - 3pm.

WHERE Restaurant Cuvee at Peterson House, Broke Road, Pokolbin.

PH 4998 7881.

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RidgeView

lunches

Chef Donna Hollis is preparing Cypriot spiced lamb chop and chicken souvlaki on a tomato caraway puree served with a Greek salad, tzatziki and cinnamon sweet potato accompanied by a glass of 2007 Shiraz or 2011 Merlot. Finish the meal with a Greek style cheesecake with caramelised pineapple & honey cinnamon reduction. Bookings essential.

WHEN Every Thursday to Sunday in June, 12pm - 5.30pm.

WHERE Ridgeview Restaurant, 273 Sweetwater Road, Pokolbin.

PH 6574 7332.

The Deck Café

Chef Tony Budden is dishing up a superb Salmon gravlax with kipfler potato and fennel salad, served with Gartelmann’s Semillon followed by pulled and pressed lamb with roasted butternut pumpkin, macadamia nuts and caramelised onion, served with Gartelmann’s Shiraz. Bookings preferred.

WHEN Daily in June, 12pm - 3pm.

WHERE The Deck Café at Gartelmann Wines, Lovedale Road, Lovedale.

PH 4930 9007.

Twine Restaurant

Chef Ben Watson’s amuse bouche and house made bread to start.

Pulled and pressed pork shoulder with root vegetable puree, broccolini and crackle dust. Served with a glass of Wynwood Estate Grenache.

Bookings essential.

WHEN Daily in June, 12pm - 13pm.

WHERE Twine Restaurant at Wynwood Estate, Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin.

PH 4998 7449.

For more lunch-time choices go to www.winecountry.com.au

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THIRD SUNDAY OF THE MONTH 9AM - 2PM

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

RELAX. REBALANCE. REFOCUS

Golden Door Spa Elysia in the picturesque Hunter Valley is a haven of relaxation and healing, created for you to take some time to relax, rebalance and refocus. Our extensive Spa Menu includes face and body treatments, massage, hand and foot care, and specialty services.

Signature treatments provide an amazing experience with sensational results, whilst the Spa Rituals offer an opportunity to indulge and rejuvenate for that little while longer.

To book call 02 4993 8500 or email programcoord@elysia.com.au

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

www.goldendoor.com.au Golden Door Health Retreat & Spa Elysia 165 Thompsons Road, Pokolbin NSW

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AUSTRALIAN CUISINE

since the 1770’s

Modern Australian food and drink reflects the country’s colonial past and the extensive migration to the country since the Second World War. From cook to executive chef, bush tucker to dukkah, we take a look at Australia’s evolution into a modern, multi-culturally influenced nation of food lovers.

Prior to European colonisation in the 18th century, Aboriginal Australians survived for thousands of years on a hunter-gatherer diet.

They were experts at finding food and water in the harsh Australian landscape. This “bush tucker” diet often included emu, kangaroo, moths, lizards and snakes as well as berries, roots and honey. Seafood was also considered a staple of the Aboriginal diet.

When the First Fleet arrived in Sydney in 1788, it came with the basic supplies of flour, sugar, tea, butter, rice, pork and beef and the expectation that they would be able to grow and farm other food types to supplement their supplies. Instead they found that the soil around Sydney Harbour and immediate surrounds was so poor that they were forced to head west to establish farms in Parramatta. The scarcity of water was also a shock after its abundance in the United Kingdom.

As a result, these early settlers were forced to trade with the local Aboriginals for bush tucker – something the European palate found difficult to adjust and adapt to. They did, however, find some foods that were familiar - fish, geese, swans and pigeons.

Never-the-less, these settlers put much effort into developing agriculture to provide a more familiar European diet. Sheep and cattle were introduced and familiar crops were planted. Flour was a staple of the settler’s diet and was used to make bread or damper - a dense thick bread. Tea was the beverage of choice in the colonial period, as was rum which soon started to be produced in the new colonies. In the early years of European settlement, rum was a major currency. Beer has also been popular since colonial times with beer being brewed since the late 18th century.

Familiar game animals such as rabbit and deer were introduced for hunting, with rabbit becoming an important food during the Great Depression of the 1930’s, as it was the only affordable meat for poorer families. Rabbit has only recently lost its reputation for being a poor person’s food and has gained popularity as a gourmet choice in Australian restaurants.

By the 1900’s the Australian economy and economic prosperity was largely driven by farm exports – a period that is often referred to as ‘riding on the sheep’s back’. Meat was considered the main part of the meal and dominated the Australian dinner plate.

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THE MULTI-CULTURAL FOOD REVOLUTION The start of the cultural food revolution in Australia coincided with the gold rush of the 1800’s, when Asian food was first introduced to Australia by Chinese prospectors yearning for the tastes of home.

Eventually, for many of the Chinese migrants, opening a restaurant became a more financially-attractive option than panning for gold.

However, the real cultural food revolution came after World War II, when Australia opened its borders to European migration. Today, European foods and cooking styles are part of our everyday diet – from pizza, to pasta dishes, antipasti, types of cheeses, dips, sauces and breads all of which are now readily available at most supermarkets throughout Australia. The migration of many Europeans since 1945 also led to espresso coffee becoming a more popular drink than tea.

The 1980’s brought larger numbers of Asian migrants, and virtually every town and suburb now has a Chinese and a Thai restaurant. The ‘melting pot’ of nationalities in Australia has brought with it a seemingly endless choice of cuisines.

Modern Australian cuisine (and even wine), has been strongly influenced by the palettes of migrants to the country. The influx of immigrants from Eastern Europe, Asia and the Middle East has brought a vast range of new flavours. Chinese, Thai, Japanese, Lebanese, French, African and Greek cuisine have become strong influences on Australian tastes and the major cities have a wide choice of restaurants. Australian chefs are now also renowned all over the world for their ‘’fusion cuisine’’ - combining traditional European cooking with Asian flavours.

Australian cuisine has also done a complete circle. Not only has vegetarianism and veganism recently gained a wider acceptance in Australian culture, but traditional bush tucker foods and game meats are also now considered speciality foods. These days, Australian bush foods, such as quandong, kutjera, bunya nuts, wattle-seed, lemon myrtle and lilly pilly are fashionably appearing on restaurant menus around the world.

The current trend in modern Australian cuisine is for low fat, healthy cooking. With the majority of the population living in coastal areas, fish and seafood are very popular, as are stir-fried or lightly cooked seasonal vegetables. This move towards a healthy diet reflects the current concerns about obesity and the increased attention on lifestyle options and diet more than ever before. People are expecting food to help them to live longer, fight common diseases, look and feel better and to get more out of life.

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 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?

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)

gift vouchers available

HALF PRICE @$99 PER PERSON

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

15 MINUTE TIGER MOTH FLIGHTS

WINE COUNTRY HORSERIDING Pokolbin’s only horseriding

Old No

JUNE SPECIAL

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

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

New England Highway

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THE BRIAR RIDGE SINGLE VINEYARD EXPERIENCE

BY THE FIRESIDE

This month, enjoy a wonderful collection of wines not readily available for tasting, including the famous Dairy Hill and Briar Hill wines, along with two new stars in the Single Vineyard series. Enjoy this unique collection of five Briar Ridge Wines along with an antipasto platter, whilst taking in the beautiful Briar Ridge surrounds. Bookings are essential.

WHEN Daily in June, 10am - 4pm. COST $15 per person. WHERE Briar Ridge – 593 Mount View Road, Mount View. Ph 4990 3670

Come and sample the latest releases of some of the Hunter Valley’s finest Winemakers and hear their stories. Be treated to an intimate 4 course dinner perfectly matched to the Winemaker’s best. With a maximum of 20 guests, this is the ultimate fireside experience. Not to be missed! Bookings essential.

WHEN Every Friday in June at 7pm. COST $120 per person.

WHERE Hunter Valley Resort – Corner Hermitage Road, Pokolbin.

Ph 4998 7777

COCKFIGHTER’S GHOST – POP UP ART EXHIBITION

LEGENDS FOR LUNCH

Throughout June, Cockfighter’s Ghost Cellar Door are hosting a popup exhibition of contemporary art. Visitors are invited to enjoy the collection while sampling the award winning-wines.

WHEN Daily in June, 10am - 5pm. WHERE Cockfighter’s Ghost Cellar Door – 576 De Beyers Road, Pokolbin. Ph 4993 3600

Enjoy a trio of local wines matched to three small courses from the Cellar Restaurant’s nibbles and bites menu. Enjoy Little gem lettuce, school prawns, crispy pancetta and cocktail sauce with Brokenwood Semillon; Scotch egg with pickled onion paired with Scarborough Chardonnay or Yorkshire pudding with braised Wagyu skirt and horseradish crème fraiche matched with Tullochs Heritage Range ‘PDR’ Shiraz, or other delicious dishes on offer. Bookings recommended.

WHEN Every Monday to Saturday in June, 12pm - 3pm. COST $75 per person. WHERE The Cellar Restaurant – Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin. Ph 4998 7584

TRUST THE CHEF Savour five courses matched with wines, while the Chef Matt Dillow cooks in front of you! Sample menu includes Stuffed Zucchini flowers; Prawn and Mud crab wontons; Iberico jamon with poached quail eggs; Lamb cooked two ways and soft centred chocolate souffle. Bookings essential.

WHEN Every Saturday in June from 7pm. COST $120 per person.

WHERE Twine Restaurant at Wynwood Estate – Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin. Ph 4998 7449

HORS D’OEUVRES HOUR Enjoy a glass of French sparkling, whilst sampling the constantly changing hors d’oeuvres created by French born executive Chef Jean Marc Pollet at Elements Restaurant. While you’re at it, take the opportunity to discuss French cooking methods with Jean Marc Pollett. Bookings essential.

WHEN Every Friday and Saturday in June, 5pm - 6pm.

COST $15 per person. WHERE Elements Bar & Dining, Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens – Corner Broke Road and McDonalds Road, Pokolbin. Ph 4998 2000

THE ADINA OLIVE AND OLIVE OIL DISCOVERY EXPERIENCE Learn all about olives and olive oils at the Adina Olive Experience.

Discover how olive oil is made and what ‘’extra virgin” means. See how the extraction process works, taste different varieties and experience fresh olive oils. Conclude with a specially prepared olive entrée and glass of Adina wine. The June 27th session finishes with a 3 course meal with matching wines. Bookings essential.

WHEN Every Saturday in June from 10.30am. COST $35 per person (June 27th event - $75 per person). WHERE Adina Vineyard – 492 Lovedale Road, Lovedale. Ph 4930 7473

INTERACTIVE GARDEN TOUR & LUNCH AT CIRCA 1876 RESTAURANT Join Executive Chef George Francisco for an interactive garden tour at Circa 1876 while he discusses everything from the gardens inception to what he grows for the restaurant menus. A special garden inspired menu is also available in the restaurant directly after the tour.

Bookings essential.

WHEN Sunday 14 June 11.30am. COST $10 per person for tour additional cost for optional lunch. WHERE Circa 1876 – 64 Halls Road, Pokolbin. Ph 4998 4998

OCEAN TO THE PADDOCK DEGUSTATION DINNER AT RIDGEVIEW RESTAURANT Executive Chef Donna Hollis and her team are serving up a sevencourse degustation dinner matched perfectly with estate-grown RidgeView wines. Meet the RidgeView crew and embark on a gastronomic journey up the Valley - from the Ocean to the Paddock.

WHEN Saturday 13th June from 6:30pm. COST $125 per person (includes paired wines). WHERE Ridgeview Restaurant – 273 Sweetwater Road, Pokolbin. Ph 6574 7332

PROGRESSIVE LUNCH: EAT - DRINK - RUN A progressive lunch for those who are serious about their food and wine. Travel by bus between four of the Hunter’s leading venues, sampling delicious Hunter Valley wines paired with tasty morsels prepared by renowned local chef Matt Dillow.

WHEN Every Saturday in June, 10am - 3pm (Sunday by appointment for groups of 12 people or more). COST $110 per person - includes transport, food and wine. WHERE First Creek Wines – 600 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin Ph 4998 7293

PAELLA COOKING CLASSES Take part in a hands-on fun and festive paella cooking class and learn how to cook authentic paella and churros with Chef and owner Matt Dillow at the Verandah Restaurant. Bookings essential.

WHEN Every Sunday throughout June, 9:30am - 12.30pm. COST $90 per person. WHERE The Verandah Restaurant – 151 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin. Ph 4998 7231

LEARN MORE ABOUT HUNTER VALLEY WINES The perfect introduction to the joys of wine - for those who want to learn a little more about the Hunter Valley and its wines, complete with gourmet cheese platter. Bookings required for master class (minimum 24 hours notice).

WHEN Daily in June – Dependent on Booking. COST $15 per person.

WHERE First Creek Wines – 600 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin.

Ph 4998 7293

EXPERIENCE SIGNATURE AUSTRALIAN WINES Experience two of the Hunter Valley’s most renowned varieties – Shiraz and Semillon in the lounge at Cockfighter’s Ghost and learn why these noble varieties have flourished in the Hunter. Enjoy an exclusive tasting whilst comparing young and old vintages of premium and reserve ranges, accompanied by a matching cheese board. Bookings essential.

WHEN Daily in June at 2pm. COST $15 per person.

WHERE Cockfighter’s Ghost Cellar Door – 576 De Beyers Road, Pokolbin. Ph 4993 3600

CHOCOLATE, TROUT AND SALMON COOKING CLASSES Join renowned Chef Matt Dillow with a hands on Trout, Salmon and Chocolate Cooking Class. Learn how to cook a confit trout, crispy skin salmon and chocolate fudge cake at Twine Restaurant . Bookings essential.

WHEN Every Saturday in June, 9.30am - 12.30pm. COST $95 per person, includes lunch and wine. WHERE Twine Restaurant at Wynwood Estate– Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin. Ph 4998 7449 For further information and other listed events go to www.winecountry.com.au

11 | JUNE 2015 thb

Hunter Valley Vineyards Boutique Cheesery

HUNTER VALLEY

CHEESE FACTORY Award winning cheese handmade in Pokolbin Hunter Valley to compliment the varietal wines of the region.

• Tasting rooms open daily 9am to 5.30pm.

• Cheese-making and maturation room viewing all day.

• Complimentary instructional cheese-making tutorial daily 11am and 3pm.

Hunter Valley

Horse Ridingures & Advent Trail Rides for Beginners and Experienced Riders

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

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..

Explore boutique vineyards along the

Wollombi WineTrail

We welcome you to our cellar doors:

ARTISIAN AUSTRALIAN CHEESEMAKERS Located at Mcguigan Wine Complex 447 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998 7744

www.huntervalleycheese.com.au

Stonehurst Wines • Wollombi Wines Noyce Brothers • Wollombi Village Vineyard Undercliff Winery • Millbrook Estate Enjoy a taste of country in historic Wollombi - cafes, shops, and Tavern’s Dr Jurds Jungle Juice!

Visit the Great Northern Trading Post at Laguna!

www.wollombivalleywinetrail.com.au thb 12 | JUNE 2015

• Hundreds of colourful hand blown &

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

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!

Shop 20, Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Pokolbin ● Ph 4998 7458

www.huntervalleycookies.com

● Cookie tastings daily ● Gluten free available

Wed Open

● Delicious Coffee ● Next door to The Garden Cellars

- Sun 10a

m - 4 . 3 0pm

Home of Award winning cookies in the Hunter Valley ● Hand-made premium cookies in designer gourmet flavours.

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!

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

Ph 4998 7455 | www.huntervalleyliqueurs.com.au Shop 6, Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Broke Rd Pokolbin

13 | JUNE 2015 thb

Paella

Love to Eat it.

Learn to Cook it!

Me encanta comer y cocinar la paella Paella is to Spanish cuisine what Risotto is to Italian cuisine, it has become a simple technique of cooking that can be translated to varying recipes.

For many, the popular Spanish dish paella is a favourite Winter meal, so this June why not take a trip to the coast of Spain right here in Pokolbin and learn how to make one of the tastiest and most flavoursome dishes in the world.

Paella is a traditional Valencian rice dish that originated in its modern form in the mid-19th century in Valencia, on the east coast of Spain.

There are three widely known types of paella: Valencian paella, seafood paella and mixed paella, but there are many others as well. The basis for a good paella is white rice, green vegetables and sofrito (a sauce consisting of garlic, onion, paprika, peppers and tomatoes cooked in olive oil) - after that it’s up to the creative talents of the cook.

As with all dishes created in rural townships, the consistency, ingredients and especially the taste varies from village to village and even household to household. Some say true ‘’Paella Valencia’’ must be cooked outside over a fire made of orange branches, dished up with a boxwood spoon and eaten only at midday.

thb 14 | JUNE 2015

The one thing we do know, is that traditionally paella is made on a Sunday and because women need a day off from cooking it is usually made by the men.

It is therefore no surprise that on every Sunday in June, you too can experience the passion of Paella-Making with local paella expert - Matt Dillow. Matt is the owner and head chef of The Verandah Restaurant in Pokolbin, a tapas style restaurant strongly influenced by Matt’s frequent visits to Spain. Paella fits the ‘’sharing’’ nature of tapas style dining, as it is cooked over the stove and often eaten straight from the pan - the perfect communal dish.

This June take part in a hands on paella cooking class and learn how to cook authentic Spanish paella, tasty Spanish churros and of course sangria (deadly but delicious Spanish wine punch) with Matt Dillow and reap the rewards of your labour by eating it for lunch.

On the menu is Spanish Iberico Jamon with fresh baked Spanish bread, Spanish paella served with sangria and Churros - a Spanish style donut, with chocolate dipping sauce.

Classes are held every Sunday in June with classes starting at 9:30am and finishing at 12.30pm. Cost is $90 per person and bookings are essential. To book, phone 4998 7231.

Indulge with

Hunter Valley

Chocolate

We invite you to indulge in our fine range of unique hand-made chocolate products and our huge variety of freshly made fudge.

Our chocolates are produced using the finest Belgian couverture, Australian dried fruits and nuts, and distilled pure fruit oils.

Peterson House • Cnr Broke Rd & Wine Country Dr • Ph 4998 7301 Hunter Valley Gardens Village • Shop 5, Broke Rd, Pokolbin • Ph 4998 7221 TWENTY - 3 - TWENTY • 2320 Broke Rd, Pokolbin • Ph 4998 6999

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

BARRETT’S 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!

www.kitchenerbusdepot.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

GVT

GRAPEVINE TOURS

15 | JUNE 2015 thb

winecountrycafé Conveniently located at the Visitors Information Centre in Pokolbin, the Wine Country Café is adjacent to Cessnock Airport.

All meals and gourmet sandwiches are prepared fresh to order (gluten free available). Daily specials board, Free WiFi and Seniors 10% discount!

• Gift vouchers available to value of $25 • Hampers and platters available from $22 (please call to order) 455 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin • PH 4990 7531 OPEN 7 days from 9am serving all-day breakfast and lunch until 3PM.

Centrally located in the heart of Pokolbin, just a short stroll from the world class Hunter Valley Gardens and within easy access to wineries and golf clubs, The Cellar Restaurant offers rustic Mediterranean inspired cuisine in elegant yet relaxed surroundings.

The sandstone and glass building features lush indoor gardens intermingled with white clothed tables and a huge welcoming fireplace in the centre.

The ambience is sophisticated yet relaxed with welcoming staff and country-friendly service.

Chef and proprietor Andrew Wright pays tribute to the region using locally sourced produce wherever possible. His menu changes regularly reflecting what is in season now.

During June, The Cellar Restaurant are celebrating Wine & Food month with their “Legends for Lunch”. Enjoy an iconic trio of local wines matched to three mini-courses from the Cellar’s nibbles and bites menu. Available for lunch, 12pm – 3pm, every Monday to Saturday in June. Cost is $75 per person. For bookings, please call 4998 7584.

Your always welcome at...

Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant

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.

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

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

It’s never been easier.

The most popular guide to Hunter Valley cellar doors, restaurants and gourmet foods and the only publication with a specific focus on wine and food.

Includes handy Wine & Food Trail Maps for each wine producing area as well as dining reviews and wine tasting notes.

Look for the gold sticker at featured restaurants and wineries.

NEW ISSUE OUT JUNE 2015! thb 16 | JUNE 2015

AS SEEN IN

Y

HUNTER VALLE

MA

G AZ I NE

Designed to Delight.

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

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.

Pokolbin

DESSERT BAR NOW OPEN!

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.

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 - Monday 10am - 4.30pm

LOVEDALE 319 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale • PH 1300 958 850

Open Friday & Saturday 10am - 9.30pm, Sunday 10am - 4.30pm

www.saborinthehunter.com.au

17 | JUNE 2015 thb

WHAT’S NEW IN FOOD

Under the Table With June comes Hunter Valley Wine & Food Month - a month-long celebration of the region's unique culture of fine wine and food.

Visit www.winecountry.com.au/events/wine-and-food-month Here are some of the latest happenings on the Local Food Scene.

Industry Long Lunch at Twine Restaurant: Held on a Monday each month, Twine Restaurant is partnering with local Hunter Valley wineries to bring you a six course degustation lunch. Each lunch starts at 12pm with complimentary sparkling or beer on arrival, followed by a six course degustation with six wines from six Hunter Valley Wineries. $60 per person. Upcoming dates are Monday 15th June; Monday 27th July; Monday 21st September. To book, ph 4998 7449.

RESTAURANT

“Food is about more than just eating; it is a total sensory experience."

- George Francisco, Executive Chef Restaurant Eighty Eight, Peppers Convent

World Luxury Hotel Award-winning Peppers Convent invites you to linger over a long lunch or dinner with your better half. Our broad, creative, fine dining menu is 100% ethical and organic, and our ingredients have been nurtured by nature, prepared with respect and cooked with love.

RidgeView Estate and Restaurant are holding their "Ocean to Paddock" 7 course degustation dinner with paired award winning wines on Saturday 13th June 2015. Cost: $125 per person. Bookings Essential. Ph 6574 7332 or email dine@ridgeview.com.au.

Breakfast (Mon - Sun) 8am - 10am High Tea (Mon - Sun) 12:30pm - 4:30pm Lunch (Mon - Sun) 12pm - 3pm Dinner (Thurs - Sun) 6:30pm - Close

Locals Night at The Verandah Restaurant - Sunday the 14th June is ‘’Asian Night". The evening starts at 6:30pm with complimentary canapés and bubbles, followed by a 5 course Tapas Style degustation. $50 per person.

BYO No corkage. Bookings essential. Ph 4998 7231.

88 Halls Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 | 02 4998 4999 convent@peppers.com.au | www.peppersconvent.com

Twine Restaurant Cooking Classes for 2015: Hands on Trout, Salmon and Chocolate Cooking Classes in the Hunter Valley. Learn how to cook a Confit trout, Crispy Skin Salmon and Chocolate fudge Cake at Twine Restaurant with owner Matt Dillow. $95 per person, includes lunch and wine. Dates are: Saturday 6th June; Saturday 13th June; Saturday 20th June; Saturday 27th June and Saturday 8th August. Bookings essential. Ph 4998 7449.

Locals Night at CIRCA 1876 Restaurant every Tuesday and Wednesday!

Free BYO for those who live within a 20 minute drive of Pokolbin, or work in the local Hunter wine industry. Two course entrée/main or main/dessert for $55.00 pp ($30 Rib Eye surcharge pp). Ph 4998 4998.

Sunday Tastes: Sundays night dining at Twine Restaurant is about creating a unique casual dining experience which starts with a house made mezze plate followed by their "Tastes from around the World" dinner (June is French) - followed by a tantalizing dessert. Every Sunday at Twine Restaurant from 5:30pm last bookings 7:30pm. Cost: $49 per person. Kids under 12 eat FREE (1 kid per paying adult, Sunday kids menu applies).

Bookings essential. Ph 4998 7449.

New Restaurant for Pokolbin: EXP. Restaurant is now open at Oakvale Wines and provides a chic and intimate dining experience for 30 guests with an interactive chef's table that peers directly into the action of the kitchen and the restaurant garden. Head chef is Frank Fawkner (ex Muse Restaurant).

Gourmet Hunter Valley Hampers from The Sebel Kirkton Park. Pick up a gourmet picnic hamper complete with a thermos of house-made mulled wine, a selection of cured meats, fresh baguettes, Hunter Valley cheeses, antipasto vegetables and marinated olives. Cost: $80 for 2 people. Hamper Bags to keep can be purchased for an additional $50.00. Minimum of 6 hours notice required. Ph 4998 7680.

For a comprehensive list of local restaurants, dining reviews and food and wine trail maps for each of the key wine growing areas - see the latest issue of Wine & Dine in the Hunter and the new Wine & Dine MAP listing every restaurant and cellar door.

thb 20 | JUNE 2015

NEW WINTER MENU AVAILABLE NOW!

RELAX WITH LIVE MUSIC EVERY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY AFTERNOON, AND PARTY ON WITH GREAT BANDS EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY NIGHT! Enjoy a pint and meal at Harrigan’s where you will be immersed in the authentic Irish décor and be surrounded by beautiful gardens,

vineyards and mountains. Have a glass of Hunter Valley Shiraz in front of the fire or even “try the luck of the Irish” in the Sports bar.

For information call

(02) 4998

4300

Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW

www.harrigansirishpub.com.au

21 | JUNE 2015 thb

Clean and Green is the Mantra of Today "We are helping wines catch the climate and soil" Nicolas Joly (renowned French biodynamic winemaker) Dramatic changes to our planet have changed the way we think about those components we typically take for granted - the water we drink, the food we eat, the air we breathe and the way we treat the land that makes this all possible. This has led many farmers and viticulturists to move towards more sustainable farming methods and a better understanding of biodynamic and organic farming and wine-making.

After beginning as a cottage industry in the 1970s, organic winemaking in Australia has gained significant popularity to the point where there is now a fast growing number of organic farmers in the Australian (and global) wine industry. At the same time, a growing number of skilled and business-savvy wine-makers have embraced innovative production processes and cutting-edge technology to produce critically acclaimed and commercially successful organic wines.

Organic wine is wine made from grapes grown in accordance with principles of organic farming and like organic foods, is produced without the use of artificial chemical fertilizers, pesticides, fungicides and herbicides. It is said that there are an estimated 1500-2000 organic wine producers globally, with more than 885 of these organic producers based in France alone.

Biodynamic farming, often referred to as ''an advanced method of organic farming'' is all of the above but goes further. It introduces the principles established in 1924 by Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner, who advocated a system that emphasises manure and compost - and an astrological approach to planting and harvesting based on the phases of the moon and the stars.

In more practical terms, biodynamic farming focuses on having healthy, alive, nutrient rich soils and a well-balanced environment to allow the plant to effectively channel and utilise everything it needs to grow.

Practices include the use of specific herb and mineral preparations to enhance the vitality of plants, soils, composts and livestock.

To become a certified biodynamic producer, a farm needs first to certify organic, and then if biodynamic principles are added to the farming program, then the term biodynamic can apply. Here in the Hunter Valley Tamburlaine, Macquariedale, Krinklewood and Ascella are the most recognised organic and biodynamic wine producers in the region.

As a group, they have a deep commitment to the environment, health and well-being and together they share a passion to make wines that capture the unique flavours of the Hunter Valley and are reflective of the local terroir – without the use of pesticides, herbicides or chemical sprays.

It's hard to get an accurate number of just how many wine producers are employing biodynamic principles. For a start, it's a method of cultivation that is rapidly catching on among wine producers especially in France (particularly Burgundy and Alsace). In addition, besides those already certified as biodynamic, there are also those who are experimenting with part of their production. It is a very rapidly changing picture.

With the growing interest in organics and biodynamics, it makes absolute sense - if not marketing sense, to follow the sustainable path.

It's a path that also leads to wines that celebrate vintage variation, deliver flavour, have character and rejoice in their unique personality.

thb 22 | JUNE 2015

the perfect wine country dining experience executive chef jean marc-pollet has created a menu driven by the fusion of classic french cuisine with local, seasonal australian produce including produce from his privately owned farm. situated in the hub of hunter valley wine country, éléments is open 7 nights for dinner and on weekends for lunch.

Corner Broke & Mcdonalds Rd’s, Pokolbin | PH 4998-2000 for reservations

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 TOURS

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

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’

23 | JUNE 2015 thb

BEHIND THE Much more than a Vineyard.

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

Cellar Door

Come Waltzing with Matilda...

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

June is Wine & Food Month - a much anticipated annual event showcasing the region's diverse wine and food culture with a month long series of themed wine and food activities.

Here are some of the latest happenings on the local Wine & Beer Scene.

The Hunter Valley Wine Festival is moving from its previous October date to Saturday 20 June at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley. The event boasts over 40 exhibiting vineyards including the Valley’s major wineries, as well as boutique producers.

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

Wine Tours at First Creek Wines – Starts at 10.30am each day. Daily Winery Tour: Cost is $5pp. Hunter Valley 101: Tour & Tasting with cheese platter – Cost is $15pp. Bookings Essential. Open every day from 9.30am.

Ph 4998 2992 Winery Long Lunches: Explore the inner workings of a family owned winery and learn how wine is made. Design your own custom sparkling, made in the French traditional style and then dine in style with a 5 course degustation lunch by the renowned Verandah Restaurant. Dates are: 6th June; 13th June; 20th June; 18th July; 22nd August; 19th September; 17th October and 14th November. Cost is $139pp or $125 per person for Calais Wine Club Members. Bookings essential – Ph 4998 7654 or email cellardoor@calaiswines.com.au.

Learn about Making Beer at the Hunter Beer Co – Join one of the brewers for a tour and get a behind the scenes look at the brewing process and a sampling of three beers. Tours run at 4 pm from Monday through Friday and 12 noon & 4pm on Saturday and Sundays. Cost is $10 per person.

Tours take approximately 45 minutes and include a tasting. Bookings are recommended – Ph 49917 922.

Epic Experience at Hungerford Hill – a premium seated tasting of limited release and museum wines matched to specially created tasting bites, prepared by award winning Muse Restaurant at Hungerford Hill. Visitors will select from a menu of three unique tasting options - expertly guided by a knowledgeable staff member. When: Every Wednesday to Sunday in June from 11am - 3pm. Cost: $60pp. Bookings essential – Ph 4990 0715 Icon vs Icon: Grange Vs Hunter Valley: Compare Australia’s most iconic wine ‘Penfolds 2007 Grange’ against three Hunter Valley Icons or taste a selection of wines at your own leisure in the cellar door for no extra charge. Booking are required for the master class. When: Every day in June from 10am to 5pm. Where: Small Winemakers Centre, 426 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin. Cost is $68pp. Bookings essential – Ph 4998 7668.

Hunter Valley vs the Rest of the World: Become a Wine Judge for a day in this hands-on lesson with McWilliams’ winemakers and wine educators.

Wines on the day will include aged iconic Mount Pleasant Shiraz, Semillon and fortifieds compared with wines from Europe, the USA and South Africa. Taittinger and canapés will be served on arrival and carefully selected cheeses to finish. When: Sat 6 June @ 11am. Where: McWilliams Mount Pleasant Wines, 401 Marrowbone Rd, Pokolbin. Cost is $150pp.

Bookings essential – Ph 4998 7505 For a comprehensive list of local restaurants, dining reviews and food and wine trail maps for each of the key wine growing areas - see the latest issue of Wine & Dine in the Hunter and the new Wine & Dine MAP listing every restaurant and cellar door.

thb 24 | JUNE 2015

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

Harvest Restaurant Harvest Restaurant is located on the top floor of the Hope Estate winery, specialising in degustation style dining and awarded an Australian Good Food Guide Chef’s Hat. Open for lunch 7 days, and dinner Friday and Saturday evenings.

For reservations, please call 4993 3599.

Hope Brewhouse Craft Brewery Hope Brewhouse offers 12 craft beers and 1 cider available on-tap, all brewed on site.

Tasting paddles are available from our Cellar Door, which is open daily 10am-5pm.

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

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

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

25 | JUNE 2015 thb

FOUR HUNTER VALLEY CHARDONNAY

HUNTER VALLEY SÉMILLON

The year 1971 saw the first commercial bottling of Chardonnay - an event that sparked the beginning of the Australian Chardonnay craze.

By the late 1980’s and 1990’s, Chardonnay became very fashionable as the stereotypical drink of young socially aware men and women.

Apart from being one of the most mispronounced wines, Sémillon is also one of the world's leading varieties of grapes. While the exact origin of the Sémillon grape is difficult to establish, it's home is considered to be the South West of France - more specifically Bordeaux, where it is the most widely planted white grape in the region.

Chardonnay is one of the world’s greatest grape varieties that grows well in a variety of locations throughout the world. Ranging from unwooded, light and fresh to full-bodied barrel fermented and aged, this versatile grape can produce a range of styles that can be matched with just about any food.

Such was the demand for Australian Chardonnay in the late 1980’s, that the area of Chardonnay vines increased more than fivefold during the decade so that in 1990, Chardonnay, became Australia’s most planted white wine grape variety.

But then it all changed and very quickly too... This peak in popularity in the late 1980’s and early 1990's gave way to a change in tastes. The market was drinking more red wine and there was a backlash from consumers disenfranchised by the buttery taste and high level of oak used in these wines. Chardonnay sales declined as consumer tastes turned towards lighter wines such as Pinot Grigio and the crisp, juicy cool-climate Sauvignon Blanc.

Despite this setback, this adaptable and hearty grape flourishes easily in most climates and conditions, and remains one of the most widelyplanted grape varieties worldwide. It is planted in more wine regions than any other grape variety and is an important component of many sparkling wines around the world, including Champagne.

Chardonnay is making a comeback with styles that are not as heavy as the past, but are instead lighter, more subtle, and more elegant and of course have a little less oak.

A grape offering this kind of variety and quality was never going to be eclipsed for long and it is a great time for wine consumers to revive their interest, in what is considered to be one of the world's great wines.

Often referred to as ''Australia’s unique gift to the wine world'', Hunter Valley Semillon is a unique white wine which keeps getting better with age and is considered to be the highest quality and best example of dry white Sémillon wine produced anywhere in the world.

At one stage, Sémillon was considered to be the most planted grape in the world. In the 1820's, the grape covered over 90 percent of South Africa's vineyards, where it was known as Wyndruif, meaning "wine grape" and in the 1950’s, Chile's vineyards were made up of over 75 percent Sémillon.

The Sémillon grape is then considered to have made its way to Australia in the early to mid 1800's, where it is now widely grown in vineyards throughout the country, especially in the Hunter Valley where it was originally known as "Hunter River Riesling." From these early days, the variety has formed a unique association with the Hunter Valley and its "terroir", with the region producing a style that has not been replicated anywhere else in the world.

Australia's best Sémillon is the dry style from the Hunter Valley, where the fruit is picked early, with low sugar levels and fermented dry without the use of oak and then bottled. Classic Hunter Valley Sémillon is restrained, with piercing acidity and lemon flavours. As a cellaring wine, it is one of the greatest wines in the world and can be cellared for a good 20 years and even longer. Over time it mellows from a fresh, tangy, fruity and pale coloured white wine into a deeper coloured softer and richer wine - evolving through an array flavours, slowly developing into richer and more honeyed characters that match with many different foods.

THOMAS ALLEN 2012 MANGO TREE CHARDONNAY

RIDGEVIEW 2007 ‘GENERATIONS’ RESERVE SÉMILLON

The grapes for the 2012 Mango Tree Chardonnay are sourced from their Moon Mountain Vineyard, from vines planted over 40 years ago in deep volcanic clay over limestone and where the vineyard’s aspect results in early ripening flavour intense fruit.

Ridgeview is a family owned boutique producer of multi award winning, 100% Hunter Valley Wines – handcrafted in small batches with minimal preservatives. The wines are distinctively varietal and food friendly, displaying finesse and elegance to complement any meal.

The grapes were hand-picked and whole berry pressed before transferring the juice to 1 and 2 year old French Oak Puncheons and left to ferment with “wild” yeast.

TASTING This unique and wonderfully flavoursome wine is light straw in colour with green tinges. The nose is of figs and melons with complex yeasty creaminess and the palate is distinctly Burgundian, exhibiting a creamy mouth-feel with a soft acid finish.

FOOD MATCH Wonderful with grilled or seared shellfish, simply roasted chicken, dishes that include wild mushrooms and slow roasted tomatoes.

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TASTING The aged release 2007 ‘Generations’ Reserve Sémillon is a classic aged Sémillon. Now 8 years young, the evolution and complexity of stunning aged Sémillon characters are coming through this exceptional wine. The acid spine is present and the citrus lemon, lime is dominant and in the background are subtle honey, toasty nuances that give the wine an elegant sweetness that only aged Hunter Sémillon’s possess.

FOOD MATCH This is a wonderful Hunter Valley Sémillon that will add the finishing touch to any seafood feast and have you craving more.

CLASSICS SHIRAZ

Shiraz (or Syrah) is a dark-skinned grape that is thought to have originated from the Rhône wine-growing area of France but is now grown throughout the world. It is used primarily to produce rich, strong red wines, which can be either varietal or blended. Cuttings of Shiraz vines first arrived in Australia in the early 1830's, when an immigrant Scotsman by the name of James Busby, made a trip back to Europe to collect cuttings from vines for introduction to Australia.

By the 1860s, Shiraz was established as an important variety in Australia.

Shiraz is without doubt Australia's favourite and most important wine variety and has played a crucial role in the development of our wine industry, both within Australian and overseas. Today, Shiraz is the most widely planted grape variety in Australia, where it accounts for 40 percent of all red grapes planted, making Australia the world's second largest Shiraz grower, after France.

The beauty of Shiraz is that it is extremely flexible in its ability to adapt to virtually any combination of climate and soil, and can be made into a range of styles, defined by the terroir of the region and the wine-makers skill. In an attempt to allow for regional characters to be expressed, many wine-makers are moving away from 100% new American oak, preferring the use of older barrels or French oak. Smaller amounts of Shiraz are also used in the production of other wine styles, such as rosé wine, fortified wine, Port wine and sparkling red wine.

The climate in the Hunter Valley consists of high temperatures during summer, with the majority of rainfall occurring between January and April. Despite the region’s tough growing conditions, the Hunter Valley produces some of the most famous Shiraz in Australia.

The typical young Hunter Valley Shiraz is a medium bodied wine showing red and dark berries, spices and a great deal of tannin.

However, its real character is seen in wines with longevity. With age, the wines become a far more complex, full bodied, yet smooth and richly flavoured wine with some earthy tones.

LAMBLOCH ESTATE THE LOCH SHIRAZ 2013 Lambloch Estate vines were planted in the 1950’s in prized volcanic loam soils that have been used to craft many great wines – such as the LOCH Shiraz which has been awarded 96 points three years in a row by James Halliday.

The LOCH Shiraz is an estate Shiraz made from 50 year old vines – being the oldest block of Shiraz vines on Lambloch Estate.

MERLOT

Merlot is most famous in its homeland of Bordeaux in France, where it is often used to produce some of the world's most famous and most expensive wines and is renowned for its wonderfully fruity, rounded, even fleshy character.

In Australia, it is considered to be one of the most important red grape varieties - coming in 3rd after Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Merlot’s popularity is due to the fact that it is softer, fruitier, and earlier-maturing than Cabernet Sauvignon, yet displays many of the same flavours – cherry, currant, plums and raspberries along with mint and tobacco. Tannin levels also tend to be lower than other red grape varieties and the skin is a deep colour. Merlots also possess a rich and ample softness that many Cabernets lack.

Merlot blends very well and is also a highly sought after straight varietal. Although enjoyable as a varietal wine, it is most successful when blended with Cabernet Sauvignon - contributing to the depth of flavour and ability to age that Merlot lacks. Merlot also has the ability to soften the severe and tough nature of a young Cabernet.

Merlot is grown in just about every region of Australia, only shying away from the coldest of wine growing regions and can tolerate and even thrive in poor conditions, including bad quality or moist soils. The Hunter Valley wine region has extensive plantings of Merlot and the summer heat is considered to provide the ideal growing conditions for this versatile grape variety. In recent years, Hunter Valley Merlot has experienced a surge in popularity and is often considered to be more robust and fleshy than other well regarded varieties, with a rich bouquet delivering one of the most pleasurable wine experiences.

When it comes to food matching, Merlot has the ability to match well with all different types of food including Italian-style red sauced pastas or even salads and is a perfect wine with Winter beef stews and roasts. The agile sweet fruit characters of some Merlots are best to match with roasted meats or Mediterranean vegetables that compliment the variety.

WYNWOOD ESTATE GREY GUM MERLOT 2013 Fermentation occurred in a traditional open fermenter, during which time the ferment was routinely ‘pumped-over’ to enhance flavour and tannin extraction. The wine then received 9 months maturation in French oak barriques, 30% of which were new. This has resulted in a wine with lifted berry fruit and integrated oak characters.

TASTING With subtle spice, dark cherry and blackberry on the nose, the palate is delicate whilst structured with ripe tannin and complexity supporting a long lengthy finish.

These flavours persist on the palate and are supported by fruit sweetness and fine tannins giving the palate length and persistence.

FOOD MATCH Enjoy this elegant red wine on its own, but as always this Shiraz is an excellent match for any red meat dish.

CELLARING With careful cellaring this wine will continue to develop over the next 5 years.

FOOD MATCH Enjoy with pork or lamb dishes.

CELLARING Drink now to 2020.

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Introducing the Hunter Valley's

POKOLBIN ESTAT E

Wine. #withbodyandsoul

VINEYARD

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

358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin | 02 4998 4200 | www.tamburlaine.com.au

R EC REATI NG 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 28 | MAY 2015

Premium Vodka Apple Vodka Vanilla Vodka Lemon Myrtle Vodka Chilli Vodka Onyx Coffee For the mostChocolate unique tastingVodka experience in the Hunter Valley andVodka beyond!

Vodka Caramel Blackberry Schnapps Strawberry Liqueur Ginger Liqueur Lemon Liqueur Lime Schnapps Choc Orange Mandarin Liqueur Liqueur Choc Mint Liqueur Onyx Coffee Liqueur Gin Butterscotch Schnapps Chilli SchnappsPremium Vodka Apple Vodka Vanilla Vodka Lemon Myrtle Vodka Chilli Vodka MINT LEAF LIQUEUR Chocolate Vodka Onyx Coffee Vodka Released this month!

Caramel Vodka Strawberry Liqueur Blackberry Schnapps Ginger Liqueur Lemon Liqueur Experience it today at 1686 Broke Rd, Pokolbin Lime Schnapps Mandarin Liqueur Choc Open 7 Days 10AM – 5PM, PH 4998 6737 Or shop online at www.HunterDistillery.com.au Orange Liqueur Choc Mint Liqueur Onyx Coffee

The largest beer range in the Valley!

We are extending our massive wine sale for the month of June!

3 dozen for only $100 on up to 4 fantastic wines!

See over 800 different local and imported beers from all over the world in the must see Tunnel of Beer.

Beers available include stouts, ales, lagers, pilsner, porters, light beers and dark beers and more.

See it to believe it at The Garden Cellars!

•••

Buy any mixed 12 beers or ciders and receive a 12% discount.

Boutique Hunter wines, beer and vodka tasting available!

THE GARDEN

CELLARS

Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin OPEN 7 DAYS 10am - 5.30pm | PH 4998 7466 www.gardencellars.com.au

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Shaken not stirred AT GOLDFISH

Goldfish Bar & Kitchen has come a long way since opening their doors in 2010. The idea behind Goldfish was to bring the expertise, excellence and quality of a Sydney cocktail bar to the Hunter Valley.

A world-class wine list, craft beer on tap and expertly mixed cocktails have proven to be a hit with locals and visitors alike, with Goldfish Bar & Kitchen being awarded ‘Best Regional Bar’ and ‘Small Bar of the Year’ in the past 3 years. To celebrate the 100th issue of The Hunter Blackboard, Goldfish Bar & Kitchen has provided a recipe for their favourite celebration cocktail, the ‘Espresso Martini’.

History of the Espresso Martini While history tells us that martini’s did not become popular until it became James Bonds’ drink of choice, the exact origin of the Espresso Martini is not clear but one theory suggests the drink was first created by cocktail guru Dick Bradsell in the late 1980’s.

It is believed that while Mr Bradsell was working at a bar in London, a young American model came in and asked for a drink that “wakes me up then @#%! me up”. The coffee machine was next to where he made his drinks so with a double shot of Vodka, coffee liqueur and sugar, the Espresso Martini was shaken into the history books.

tail

Espresso Martini Cock RECIPE • 60ml Vodka • 30ml Espresso Coffee • Dash of Sugar syrup (Made by mixing equal parts of sugar and water until the sugar is fully dissolved) • 5ml Coffee Liqueur (Goldfish makes their own coffee liqueur, but examples of the best to use are Kahlua and Patron XO, which work well if using tequila as your base spirit, or Mr Black cold drip coffee liqueur) Add all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice and shake, shake, shake.

Strain into a martini glass and if you’re feeling a little bit fancy – garnish with 3 coffee beans!

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PIZZAS AVAILABLE UNTIL 11PM ON FRIDAY & MIDNIGHT ON SATURDAY

WWW.THEGOLDFISH.COM.AU - TEMPUS TWO WINERY COMPLEX CNR OF BROKE & MCDONALDS ROADS - 02 4998 7688

CELLAR DOOR OPEN Friday to Monday 10am – 4:30pm

Home of award winning single vineyard wines, Cafe DenMar and quality accommodation.

Join us for wine tasting with matching canapes, $30 per couple.

Bookings only.

CAFE DENMAR Open for group bookings of 10 - 20 persons, 3 days notice is required.

479 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin Ph 02 6574 7291 • www.denmarestate.com.au

Organic Wines

Great Tasting • Award Winning • Certified Organic

from Adina Vineyard Whether it’s a luscious Hunter Estate Shiraz, a beautiful Cabernet blend, or a warming Muscat that takes your fancy, you will find the line-up of Adina’s red wines just perfect for your 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.

TASTE

PASSION

OPEN 7 days a week Please text or call 02 6574 5275 or 0431 357 105 www.ascellawine.com | sales@ascellawine.com

VINEYARD

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

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THE MIRACLE THAT IS THE OLIVE

The olive tree is among the oldest known cultivated trees in the world - being grown before the written language was invented, is mentioned in the Bible, depicted in ancient Egyptian art and played an important role in Greek mythology.

The leafy branches of the olive tree were ritually offered to ''the God's'' and other powerful figures as emblems of benediction and purification, and they were used to crown the victors of friendly games and bloody wars. Today, olive oil is still used in many religious ceremonies and over the years the olive has been the symbol of peace, wisdom, glory, fertility, power and purity.

The Hunter Valley is Australia's "Must Visit" Wine Region! With over 150 Cellar Doors, almost 70 restaurants and a plethora of events happening throughout the year, it's easy to see how it's earned the "Must Visit" tag.

Planning a trip to the Hunter Valley?

Don't leave home before visiting Hunter Valley Online!

You’ll find all the latest news, restaurant reviews, wine tasting notes and suggestions, interactive magazines, guides, brochures, newsletters, maps, books and tools to make the most of your time in Australia's Must Visit Wine Region!

All that aside, olives are one of the oldest foods known to man and are thought to have originated in Asia Minor before quickly spreading from Iran, Syria and Palestine to the rest of the Mediterranean between five and seven thousand years ago.

Since ancient times, the olive tree has provided food, fuel, timber and medicine for many civilisations. The health benefits of olives and olive oils are significant and have been known for thousands of years.

They are high in antioxidants and free of cholesterol, and are the basic building block of the so-called Mediterranean diet.

In the past several hundred years, the olive has spread to North and South America, Japan, New Zealand and Australia, where the olive industry is made up of those that either grow olives for table fruit or grow olives for oil, or in some cases both. In Australia, the table olive industry is relatively small mainly due to the high cost of labour. As a result, the majority of olives grown are made into olive oil.

The renaissance of the Hunter Valley as an olive producing area dates back to some trial plantings that took place in the early 1990’s. Today there are numerous growers and producers dotted throughout the Hunter with one of the most prominent being Adina Vineyard & Olive Grove in Lovedale, which has an extensive planting of more than 2000 olive trees that range in age up to 18 years and have their own on-site processing facility. They also source olives from a number of quality producers in the Hunter Valley.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OLIVES AND OLIVE OIL

Photo courtesy of Mount View Tourism.

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If you are interested in learning more about olives and olive oils, then Adina Vineyard & Olive Grove on Lovedale Road in Lovedale is opening its doors every Saturday in June from 10.30am for a fantastic olive and olive oil discovery experience. You can discover how olive oil is made, learn what ''extra virgin'' means, see how the extraction process works, taste different varieties and experience fresh olive oils. Conclude your Adina olive experience with a specially prepared olive entrée and glass of Adina wine. The June 27th session finishes with a 3 course meal at Emerson’s Restaurant with matching wines.

The cost is just $35 per person, however the June 27th event costs $75 per person. Bookings essential. To book, phone 4930 7473.

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

FIRST CREEK TOUR AND TASTING PACKAGES

Daily Winery Tour:

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

Hunter Valley 101

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.

RATED WINERY BY JAMES HALLIDAY Cheese and antipasto plates available Tranquil gardens and mountain views Unique wedding venue

593 Mount View Road, Mount View NSW 2325 Phone 02 4990 3670 | www.briarridge.com.au CELLAR DOOR OPEN 7 DAYS, 10AM TO 5PM

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COMING UP

in the Hunter

3RD – 26TH JULY SINGLETON FESTIVAL Around Singleton

4TH, 11TH, 25TH JULY HANDMADE HUNTER MARKETS Kevin Sobels Wines

The Singleton Festival is a biannual event which celebrates all facets of creative, fine arts, music, food and wine in the Singleton Community. The Singleton Festival 2015 will feature workshops, events and activities celebrating the four themes: Food & Wine, Military History, Tribute to Creativity, and Youthful Creations.

For any other information please see the Singleton Festival website www.singletonfestival.com.au or contact the SVIEC on 6571 5888.

SUNDAY 12TH JULY WOLLOMBI WINTER PICNIC Noyce Brothers Wines, Wollombi With its picturesque views and rich history, there is no better way to appreciate the beauty of the Wollombi Valley than with a picnic.

SUNDAY 5TH JULY BROKE VILLAGE MARKET Broke Village

On Sunday 12th July, the Wollombi Winter Picnic returns with the soulful sounds of singer and guitarist Cass Eager, lawn games, great wine and a choice of 2 delicious hampers from Panino Gourmet Deli Caffe and Restaurant.

Tickets are just $60 per couple including a choice of 2 hampers and a glass of Noyce Brothers wine on arrival. No BYO wine but wine can be purchased by the bottle from the Noyce Brothers Cellar Door.

To book your spot call the Noyce Brothers Cellar Door on 4998 3483 or 0416 245 655.

SATURDAY 4TH JULY PIGSTY IN JULY Dashville, Lower Belford After the sellout event in 2014, Pigsty in July, the little sister event to the famed Gum Ball music festival, returns in 2015.

The one day ‘2nd hand formal’ themed mini festival focuses on luxurious indulgence, with an enticing mix of boutique beers, local wine and naughty cocktails.

It is the perfect winter celebration, enjoying warm winter foods surrounded by the warmth of friends and open fires.

The 18+ event is fully licensed and runs from midday until 10pm.

There is no BYO food or beverages.

Tickets are $48 (+ booking fee) from www.dashville.com.au

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SUNDAY 19TH JULY SACRED TREE MARKETS Branxton

THURSDAY 9TH JULY ERTH'S DINOSAUR ZOO Cessnock Performing Arts Centre Erth’s widely acclaimed show, Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo™, takes audiences into a new dimension of theatre at Cessnock Performing Arts Centre on Thursday, July 9.

Meet awesome prehistoric creatures, from cute baby dinos to some of the largest carnivores and herbivores that have ever walked the planet!

Learn how to feed and interact with Erth’s dinosaurs in a once in a lifetime interactive experience.

Children can watch wide-eyed from a safe distance or dare to get right up close to these prehistoric creatures.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Cessnock Performing Arts website.

13TH – 31ST JULY WINTER ROSE PRUNING Hunter Valley Gardens Ever wondered what was the correct way to prune your roses?

Hunter Valley Gardens have 35,000 roses to prune and they want to show you how from the 13th – 31st July!

With demonstrations and talks daily by the qualified horticultural team, anybody will be able to grow beautiful roses with the correct knowledge on planting, pruning and striking cuttings.

Visit www.hvg.com.au for more information.

25TH & 26TH JULY WINERY RUNNING FESTIVAL Hunter Valley Gardens It’s not every day that you get to run through world famous gardens, historic homesteads, international golf resorts and of course, some of the most famous wineries in Australia.

Celebrating its 10th year in 2015, the Winery Running Festival will be held on 25th & 26th July, with all races beginning and ending at Hunter Valley Gardens Village.

Races on offer include the Ultra Marathon, Winery Marathon, Half Marathon, 10.3km Vineyard Run, 5.2km Winery Wander and 2km Kids Marathon.

Competitors can run or walk any event, while spectators enjoy the Hunter Valley Gardens and the shopping village brimming with cafes, restaurants and shops.

The day will be a celebration of the healthy lifestyle on offer in one of Australia's most picturesque tourism areas.

Visit www.wineryrun.com for more information.

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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.

Essentials POKOLBIN CONVENIENCE STORE In the heart of the village is a genuine general store servicing the Pokolbin area with everything you might need while visiting the Wine Country.

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