The Hunter Blackboard | May 2016

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

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BLACKBOARD

FESTIVAL

Your Hunter Valley

FESTIVAL GUIDE! HEAVEN IN THE HUNTER Broke Fordwich MOTHER’S DAY IN WINE COUNTRY

THE HUNTER BLACKBOARD IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH...

FOR YOUR DIARY

May

SATURDAY 7TH MAY | BLENDED: THE SHIRAZ SHOWDOWN | Sebel Kirkton Park | Join some of the Hunter Valley’s leading winemakers in an

entertaining ‘friendly’ team blend-off against other wineries to make the ‘best Shiraz based blend in the Valley’. The showdown will begin with canapes and sparkling wine on arrival as you mix and mingle with your rivals and team mates. Then join your team at the Blending Tables to sip, taste and enjoy the wines you are blending! Tickets are $105 pp, including blending wines and cheese platters. To book, contact a Hunter Valley winery to join their team or go to www.huntervalleyevents.com.au

EACH FRIDAY IN MAY AND JUNE | FIRESIDE WINEMAKER DINNERS | Hunter Resort | As part of the Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival, Hunter

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Resort will feature a different Hunter Valley Winemaker each Friday evening in a series of "By the Fireside" Dinners. With a maximum of 30 guests each evening, this is indeed an intimate experience where you will discuss latest releases and talk all things wine with the likes of renown winemakers such as Bruce Tyrrell and Lisa McGuigan. Each of the 4-course dinners will be perfectly matched by the Winemaker's best. Cost is $120 per person, for more information or to book phone 4998 7777 or visit www.hunterresort.com.au/fireside

13TH TO 15TH MAY | MORPETH CHAPEL JAZZ | throughout Morpeth | Morpeth Chapel Jazz is a joint venture of the three churches of Morpeth. Until the 1980’s, Morpeth was a rundown village in fear of demolition. Then it was slowly rejuvenated as a destination and what was left of its charming buildings rescued from the bulldozer. A few local businesses joined together to establish a small jazz festival in the bicentenary year of 1988 and the jazz festival soon acquired a life of its own. By 2000 it had developed into a major event on the Morpeth Calendar. Chapel Jazz presents traditional jazz in a welcoming environment to jazz lovers and their families. For more information, visit www.chapeljazz.com

14TH AND 15TH MAY | LOVEDALE LONG LUNCH | Lovedale |

Gourmands take note that in May, Lovedale will once again be continuing the tradition of bringing endless delight to lovers of wine, food and music by hosting the annual Lovedale Long Lunch. This year’s event is expected to attract more than 20,000 people to the seven participating Lovedale wineries - Allandale Winery, Tatler Wines, Gartelmann Wines, Wandin Estate, Saltire Wines, Sandalyn Estate and Emmas Cottage Vineyard. This progressive style lunch also involves a selection of the regions finest restaurants and live entertainment! For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.lovedalelonglunch.com.au

TUESDAY 17TH MAY | THE "WEDDING RECEPTION" COMEDY EXPERIENCE | Hunter Valley Resort | Boasting 5 star reviews from

premieres in London Covent Garden, Brighton Fringe and Edinburgh Fringe, this new immersive comedy from the producers of Faulty Towers The Dining Experience makes its Hunter Valley debut! Be a guest at The Wedding Reception.

This 2.5 hour immersive comedy is highly improvised, and as interactive as you want it to be. And, in true wedding reception style, it even includes a sit-down dinner – with cake! Tickets are $75 pp including a 3-course meal. Be quick, it's sure to sell out! www.hunterresort.com.au/interactive-theatre

26TH TO 29TH MAY | PORT TO PORT RACE | through Port Stephens, Newcastle and the Hunter Valley | Port to Port MTB is an annual four day

MTB stage race where riders will be treated to the iconic local scenery of Port Stephens, Newcastle and the Hunter Valley. This year’s event has day two (the 27th) being held in the Hunter Valley, beginning at Lindeman’s Winery and concluding at Briar Ridge Vineyard. For spectators, this will be the best chance to enjoy the hospitality of the Hunter and witness Australia’s best mountain bike riders up-close in action. Registrations for the 2016 Port to Port MTB are now open. Visit www.porttoportmtb.com for more information.

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

FROM THE EDITORS Wine Country is loaded with festivals.

Locals and visitors alike are always ready to raise their glasses and toast something… this year’s harvest, spring, roses, chocolates, our award-winning wine and food and yes – even lunch!

The temperatures are settling into a more comfortable Autumn ambiance, and the leaves may be yellowing and falling from the vines, but there’s no time to hibernate in Wine Country with a slew of festival style events turning up the heat in the cooler months.

The month of May welcomes the 23rd annual Lovedale Long Lunch. Held on the third weekend of May, this progressive style lunch from winery to winery in the beautiful Lovedale area is a festival of the senses, as well as the taste-buds.

The 4th annual Hunter Valley Wine Festival will return to the Crowne Plaza in early June. With an extensive array of wine, food, beer and cider on offer, this community event promises to be one to remember and, as always, festival goers will be spoilt for choice as they wine and dine with the region's best winemakers, brewers, and culinary talent.

You can plan your annual calendar of Hunter Valley events with our handy festival guide. Of course, there’s a focus on wine and food (this is Australia’s premier wine region after all!), but you’ll also find an array of events to help you get Jazzy, find your groove, enjoy nature

or even get fit. We hope you relish the abundance of Festivals, not only in May but right throughout the year.

This month we also visit the “tranquil” side of the Hunter – the Broke Fordwich region where over 180 years of passion and dedication has gone into the craft of winemaking. A visit to the area will likely uncover some hidden gems – and a bargain or two from the local markets.

There’s nothing that signals Autumn more than a pumpkin and this month you’ll find a delicious Autumn recipe from Chad Pridue at Restaurant Cuvee for Gnocchi with Pumpkin and Sage Cream to make at home. Yum! May wouldn’t be May without recognising Mother’s Day. Sunday 8th May see’s various organised events throughout the Hunter Valley. From the simple to the extravagant, you would be hard-pressed not to find a way to show your appreciation and love to the one person who knows all your foibles and loves you anyway! Happy Mother’s Day to all the Mums… we hope you have a beautiful day.

Enjoy!

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Contents ANNUAL FESTIVALS

10

The weather may be cooling down in the Hunter Valley but it’s not a time to hibernate it's a time to celebrate - with a number of events throughout May turning up the heat.

HEAVEN IN THE HUNTER

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FOOD FIVE WAYS - BEETROOT

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IVANHOE WINES

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VARIETY: THE SPICE OF LIFE

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HUNTER BLACKBOARD MAP

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The beauty of the natural landscape, coupled with fine Hunter wines, local farm produce, great places to stay and cultural significance make Broke Fordwich well worth a visit…

H U N T E R

V A L L E Y

Dine at the divine Circa 1876 until the 31st of May 2016 with our decadent 5 Course Tasting Menu for $120 per person (food only). Mention this ad to book in your complimentary kitchen garden tour!

Our own bees supply bush honey, free range chickens offer up our eggs each day, and a lush, bountiful kitchen garden is lovingly tended to by Chefs with a passion for presenting you produce that comes light on carbon footprint and high on flavour.

Sink into the rich soil of Circa 1876 and transport yourself to a truly exceptional dining experience.

Bookings are essential: info@circa1876.com or PH (02) 4998 4998

It doesn’t matter what it is served with, Beetroot has the ability to become the hero of any dish. Yes, the red stains can be problematic but we love it regardless!

For many, owning and running a vineyard and winery may be considered “living the dream” but for Stephen and Tracy Drayton, creating some of the Hunter’s finest wines means working long hours, six or seven days a week.

The landscape of Australian wines has changed significantly over the last 10 years. No longer are wine lovers drinking just Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, nowadays they are itching to try something new.

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

64 Halls Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 www.theconventhuntervalley.com 3 | MAY 2016 thb

WHAT’S HOT IN THE HUNTER iHOP BY DAY TOUR BY NIGHT Continue your day exploration into the night with iHop Hunter Valley and a culinary delights tour! Think: 7-course cheese and wine matching, 2-course Tapas style dinner, and then of course finish at Sabor - 'the Hunter's Sweet Spot'.

Night tours are $129pp, with complimentary pickup and drop-off from your local accommodation.

Tours are on Friday and Saturday nights only, check the website for any changes.

HOW TO BOOK Phone 0455 535 035, email explore@ihophuntervalley.com.au or visit www.ihophuntervalley.com.au

THE ULTIMATE VENUE Twine, previously one of the Hunter Valley’s most popular restaurants, is now the ultimate venue for your wedding or function. Everything, including the grounds and surroundings, the wine, the cuisine, the staff and the service are first class, as your special day requires. Twine can provide everything you need to style the ultimate event, large or small. They can cater for as few as a 10 person intimate rendezvous, to up to 150 people in the Barrel Room.

WHERE Twine at Wynwood Estate, 310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin. For enquiries, contact bookings@twinerestaurant.com.au. www.twinerestaurant.com.au

It's a (winery) dogs life!

Anyone who has visited Briar Ridge Vineyard will remember being greeted

by Spencer, the salt and pepper Standard Schnauzer. Since joining the team in 2013, Spencer has taken on the role of guard dog, which in reality is just him standing at the top of the winery driveway and barking at anything that moves. However, Spencer’s bark is much bigger than his bite and he'll run up to all visitors tail wagging to welcome them with a friendly lick. As a three-year-old, Spencer has been known to get up to mischief, notably jumping on the CFO’s desk to eat the piece of cake he was saving for afternoon tea...

As you can see, it really is a dog’s life! Make sure you take the trip to Mount View to visit Briar Ridge Vineyard, we have no doubt Spencer will be happy to see you!

WHERE Briar Ridge Vineyard - 593 Mount View Road, Mount View. Open 7 days, 10am - 5pm, phone 4990 3670. www.briarridge.com.au

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Ocean TO PADDOCK On Saturday 18th June, the RidgeView team lead by Executive Chef Donna Hollis bring you their annual Ocean to Paddock Winemaker’s Dinner.

The seven-course menu with matched wines will see your tastebuds travel from the ocean to the paddock, and if last year’s menu is anything to go by, we are sure to enjoy! Keep an eye on the RidgeView website to see what Chef Donna Hollis has in store for this year’s event.

WHERE RidgeView Restaurant, 273 Sweetwater Rd, Rothbury. Tickets are $125 per person, including paired wines. Bookings are essential on 6574 7332 or visit www.ridgeview.com.au

Not just for kids!

With the largest range of imported English confectionary, why not make a stop at The British Lolly Shop? With all your old favourites from humbugs to sherbert lemons, Jaffa cakes to Yorkshire Pudding mixes, plus a great range of teas, visit the team to sample some of the goodies on offer.

WHERE Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, Broke Road Pokolbin.

EDITORS PICK M AY

CONVENIENCE AT PK'S PK's is a conveniently located cafe right next door to the Hunter Valley Visitor Information Centre, so it's easy to enjoy a coffee and a bite to eat while you plan your day! PK's has a range of gourmet sandwiches and wraps, plus something sweet to save for later.

The best part is they are able to prepare savoury or sweet platters - perfect for a picnic!

WHERE Next to the Visitor Information Centre,

455 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin.

Open 7 days 8am - 5pm (Sun 4pm), PH 4990 4002.

3 H UG E WEEKS

WINTER HOLIDAY FUN ICE SKATING, SNOW PLAY, TOBOGGANING AND MORE! OPEN: 10AM - 9PM 25 JUNE - 17 JULY 2016

For details and online tickets visit - www.hvg.com.au Broke Road Pokolbin - Ph: 02 4998 4000

#HunterValleyGardens #SnowTime

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

One Day Just Isn't Enough at Hunter Valley Gardens!

It is no surprise that Hunter Valley Gardens has become one of Australia’s premier tourist destinations and earned a place in the NSW Tourism Hall of Fame.

Opened to the public in 2003 and spanning over sixty acres, the spectacular gardens amaze visitor’s year after year with its eight kilometres of walking paths, more than six thousand trees, one million ground covers, six hundred thousand shrubs and sensational sights, colours, and fragrances of a standard not found elsewhere in Australia.

The 10 stunning feature gardens allow visitors to “take a trip around the world” as they explore each new garden with an air of discovery at every turn – at true testament to nature’s beauty. A favourite for many visitors, young and old, is the Storybook Garden, as it provides an opportunity to revisit childhood memories and step back in time with all the favourite fairytale characters.

When visiting the Gardens don’t forget to pay a visit to the Shopping Village. Located adjacent to the Gardens, the Shopping Village is home to 23 boutique and specialty shops, restaurants and cafes. Also located on the Hunter Valley Gardens grounds is a wedding chapel, a children’s playground, extensive picnic facilities and a putt-putt and aqua golf driving range to keep the kids, big and small amused.

Lots to do at Hunter Valley Gardens

But it isn’t just the beautiful gardens that attracts visitors. Hunter Valley Gardens host a number of annual events throughout the year which sees an increase in visitors flocking to the Hunter Valley. Coming up in June is the popular Snowtime in the Garden, which will transform the Gardens into an icy wonderland over three huge weeks, including the winter school holidays.

Upcoming events also include Winter Rose Pruning and the Hunter Valley Running Festival in July, Spring Festival of Flowers in September, Rose Spectacular in October and of course the annual Christmas Lights Spectacular.

One visit simply won’t be enough to take in all there is to see and do at Hunter Valley Gardens! For more information about Hunter Valley Gardens visit www.hvg.com.au and for the Shopping Village visit www.huntervalleyshopping.com.au

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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.

Book early for Mothe rs Day!

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 Thurs 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 Harrigans Irish Pub – Treat Mum to a day out with fantastic live music from Adam Eckersley and Brooke McClymont as well as fun for the kids including a live animal petting zoo, face painting and a jumping castle. Make a reservation for lunch or dinner and Mum receives a free glass of sparkling wine. Bookings essential. Ph 4998 4300.

Tamburlaine Organic Wines – Bringing together two of Mum’s favourite things, enjoy the ultimate ‘Organic Wine & Chocolate Tasting’ experience for $49 per couple. Bookings essential. Ph 4998 4200.

Circa 1876 – Dine on Mother’s day with a brilliant two, three or five course menu as well as a take home gift of Roscrea Estate wine for Mum. Bookings are essential. Ph 4998 4998.

Twine Restaurant – Enjoy a delicious set price 3-course luncheon overlooking the vineyard for only $75 per person and a kid’s menu available for only $20. Bookings essential. Ph 4998 7449.

Red Salt Restaurant – Mums will be in heaven with the amazing Mother’s Day seafood spread for $65 per adult and $30 per child (5-12 yrs). Includes a complimentary glass of sparkling wine for all Mums. Ph 4991 0900.

Mother’s Day Around the Valley

Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen – All Mother’s Day weekend, Mums can enjoy a Special Mum’s High Tea at their Pokolbin location for only $25 per person.

Ph 4998 7333.

Esca Bimbadgen – Spoil your Mum with a delicious 3 course lunch for only $75 per person. Bookings essential. Ph 4998 4666.

There is a lot happening in the Hunter Valley that will be sure to make your Mum feel extra special this Mother’s Day!

Harvest Restaurant – Your Mum will feel extra special with a glass of Sparkling on arrival and a delectable 3 course meal for only $69 per person.

Bookings essential. Ph 4993 3555.

Sabor in the Hunter – For those Mums with a sweet tooth, Sabor has over 50 desserts to choose from so your Mum will be spoilt for choice! Bookings preferred. Ph 1300 958 850.

Ascella Organic Wines – Call and book your Mum in for an Organic Wine tasting and complimentary cheese and olive plate and she will receive a bottle of Ascella Organic Rosé. Conditions Apply. Ph 6574 5275.

RidgeView – Take Mum to enjoy a scrumptious brekky or a slow grazing Meze Feast overlooking the picturesque vineyards… and mum receives a complimentary glass of bubbles too! Ph 6574 7332.

Restaurant Cuvee – All Mums dining for Breakfast or Lunch will enjoy a glass of Sparkling on arrival and a special gift from Peterson House. Breakfast is $32 per adult/$12 per child or lunch for $55 per person for 2 courses or $70 per person for 3 courses. Bookings essential. Ph 4998 7881.

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Hunter Valley Wine Festival An Adventure for Wine Lovers Food and wine lovers take note, the 4th Annual Hunter Valley Wine Festival is returning to the grounds of Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, on Saturday June 4 where the picturesque vineyards and surrounding mountain ranges provide a stunning backdrop to an action-packed day.

With an extensive array of wine, food, beer and cider on offer, this community event promises to be one to remember and, as always, festival goers will be spoilt for choice as they wine and dine with the region’s best winemakers, brewers and culinary talent.

Families are welcome and there will be lots for the kids to do on the day including a jumping castle, face painting, carousel, and station train.

Entry tickets can be pre-purchased for $20 per person or for $25 per person on the day and include five tasting vouchers valid across 40 different exhibitors. Entry to the Festival is complimentary for children under 18 years old. Special wine offers available during the festival include "buy 5 for the price of 6".

Festival organiser, Jenny Farrell, said that the new-style festival was a great way to discover the range and quality of Hunter Valley wines in the one very attractive venue.

“The festival offers a great weekend getaway for those who love the Hunter and want to enjoy an entertaining Saturday with family and friends, and with the festival utilising both the award winning Hunter Valley Conference and Events Centre and the hotel’s grounds, we are covered for all weather conditions,” said Ms Farrell.

“We provide a unique ‘one stop shop’ opportunity to discover some 40 Hunter Valley wineries without needing to drive for hours, while offering quality Hunter cuisine and entertainment.”

at keeping children occupied while the adults enjoyed the tastings and entertainment.

With plenty of family-friendly activities and great entertainment on offer, this much loved Schwartz Family Company community event has something for everyone. All funds raised during the festival will benefit the local Rural Fire Service.

For those interested in transportation to and from the event, Hunter Valley Wine Festival is offering return coach transfers from Newcastle.

For tickets and further Festival information visit www.huntervalleywinefestival.com

Ms Farrell hvwf_thridpage.pdf said that the festival 1would be a family2:07 friendly event, with a 13/04/2016 pm miniature train, carousel, lemonade stall and other activities aimed

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CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE HUNTER

$20 PRESALE INCLUDING 5 TASTING TICKETS kids under 18 yrs old FREE

WINE, BEER & CIDER TASTINGS | GOURMET LOCAL FOOD | LIVE ENTERTAINMENT | family friendly kids ACTIVITIES Saturday 4th June 2016 11am – 5pm CROWNE PLAZA HUNTER VALLEY, Wine Country Drive, Lovedale w w w.hunter valley winefestival.com

PROUDLY SUPPORTING THE RURAL FIRE SERVICE

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Heroes of the Hunter With golf course and vineyard views, Redsalt is Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley’s signature restaurant, renowned for its fresh, local produce, fine wines and innovative cuisine. With an open kitchen layout, watch the talented chefs at work as they prepare a tantalising meal experience for you.

BROKE V I L L AG E

•Gourmet Foods •Farmers Produce •Boutique Wine •Handmade Gifts •Novelties •BBQ

As part of the Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival, Redsalt is presenting ‘Heroes of the Hunter’, a decadent five-course degustation. Taking you on a journey through the Hunter Valley, the specially designed menu showcases the finest local produce with each dish perfectly matched to award-winning wines from the region, combining to deliver you the ‘Heroes of the Hunter’.

‘Heroes of the Hunter’ is available every day throughout May and June from 6pm – 9.30pm. It costs $85 per person for the ‘Essentials’ wine menu and $115 per person for the ‘Premium’ wine menu. Bookings are essential on 4991 0944 or email redsalt.hunter@ihg.com Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley are offering special accommodation packages for stays during the Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival. The ‘Heroes of the Hunter’ accommodation and dinner package includes overnight accommodation and the five-course ‘Heroes of the Hunter’ degustation with the ‘Essentials’ wine match. For more information, visit www.crowneplazahuntervalley.com.au

Cheers Bus

Hunter Valley Guided Winery Tours

Book your tour securely at www.cheersbus.com • Private or shared deluxe tours in an air conditioned mini bus, seven days per week • Pick up from your local accommodation or groups 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 our your 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

*** NOW OPEN *** at Pokolbin Village 2188 Broke Road

CRAFT BEERS FINE WINES FORTIFIEDS AND SPIRITS Come in and taste our local wines.

Great deals on cleanskins and end of vintage cases.

Sunday to Thursday 10am to 5pm Friday and Saturday 10am to 6pm

FESTIVAL VIBES

The annual Lovedale Long Lunch

Annual Festivals

and other Vineyard Shindigs

WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN

The leaves may yellowing and starting to fall from the vines and temperatures settling to an average daily high of 21°C, but no-one in the Hunter is about to hibernate yet. Instead it’s the time to celebrate with a whole range of festival-style events heating up these cooler months of the year.

While the Hunter is home to a diverse calendar of quality events all year round that include anything from local markets to music festivals and concerts featuring Australian and international artists, the month of May marks the start of a series of events on a far grander scale – bigger, better, louder and longer than those that have gone before!

Celebrating everything from the region’s world-renowned food and wine, to its reputation as a place that knows how to party and enjoy themselves, the Hunter’s bourgeoning series of festivals are a major attraction for tourists from far and wide, not to mention those living closer to home.

Festivals Designed to Delight All If you were planning an event around wine and food, then Hunter Valley Wine Country has it all. With numerous wineries ranging in size from large to small and stunning views of the vineyards and countryside, the region offers the perfect backdrop to host the most memorable celebration or festival.

Topping the list of wine-soaked festivals is the iconic annual Lovedale Long Lunch held on the weekend of May 16-17 – a tantalising food and wine event that is now celebrating its 23rd year.

The brainchild of a small group of local vignerons, the Lovedale Long Lunch was first uncorked in 1994 as a way of promoting Lovedale as a

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premium wine-producing area and tourist attraction in its own right.

The two day wine, food and music festival now attracts up to 22,000 visitors over the 2 day period. Based on a progressive-style lunch, this incredibly popular annual event offers visitors and locals alike the opportunity to visit the boutique wineries and taste the area’s sensational wines.

Held across seven local wineries, the Lovedale Long Lunch, as the name suggests, is not merely a celebration of wine but a chance to showcase a selection of gourmet dishes prepared by some of the region’s top chefs.

Imagine savouring Thai blue swimmer crab and prawn cakes with Asian coleslaw and spicy plum sauce or a dish of slow braised pulled and pressed pork shoulder with crackle dust, caramelised onion, root vegetable puree and broccolini whipped up by highly acclaimed chef Matt Dillow at The Deck Café and in the grounds of Gartelmann Wines.

Now picture following this up with a Chocolate chip and caramel baked cheesecake with vanilla bean crème anglaise served up by The Cellar Restaurant who has teamed up with Allandale Winery.

With new release wines on offer at all seven venues and a variety of live entertainment to lift the buzz of the lunch to the next level, the Lovedale Long Lunch has truly fermented during the past two decades into an iconic Hunter festival.

But Lovedale isn’t the only area of the Hunter utilising the allure of locally-produced food and wine to create a festival-style event this month.

With a reputation for being the “Hunter’s best street party”, the Upper Hunter Wine and Food Affair held on May 7 transforms the main street of Denman (Ogilvie Street) into a wine and food extravaganza and one of the biggest events on the Hunter’s gourmet calendar.

This one day event is an initiative of the Denman Chamber of Commerce and designed to showcase just what the Upper Hunter has to offer, with 45 wine and food stalls serving up a wide selection of street food, take home foods and the unique flavours of world renowned Upper Hunter wines. Live entertainment abounds with performances from 5 live bands including country music star Travis Collins.

Of course, the menu of Hunter Valley food and wine festivals is not limited to just these two courses. What used to be held over the month of June each year, the Hunter’s main event of gourmet indulgence – the Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival now spans over two months,

A food fight to remember

from 1 May to 30 June. This annual event showcasing the regions wine and food culture provides the opportunity for visitors and locals to wine and dine with leading Hunter Valley winemakers and chefs, take part in an array of fun and interactive classes to fine tune those culinary skills, or simply curl up beside an open fire with a glass of premium Hunter Valley wine and a cheese plate.

Kicking off this festival for gourmands is the Hunter Valley Wine Festival which takes place on the 4th of June on the grounds of Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley. The 2016 event is expected to build on the success of previous years with more than 40 of the region’s best wineries, breweries, educators and gourmet food producers taking part and offering up a delicious selection of wine, food, beer and cider.

Those who want to walk away from the Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival with more than just a full stomach are also well catered for, with a series of hands-on cooking classes offering the secrets to success in preparing everything from pasta to paella and seafood to chocolate, as well as a number of other themed events and activities.

Morpeth Chapel Jazz Festival

The kitchen will be heating up when the mother of all food and wine events kicks off on Monday 6th of June at Cypress Lakes Resort with the Hunter Culinary Association’s seventh annual Food Fight.

This year’s theme will see the former team of Sydney’s prestigious Banc Restaurant going head to head with former Brett Graham Scholarship winners. Cooking for Team Banc will be legends of the former restaurant, Colin Fassnidge of 4Fourteen, Matt Kemp of Q Station, Warren Turnbull of Chur Burger and Justin North of Hotel Centennial. Staring them down and cooking for Team Brett Graham Scholarship Recipients will be Hunter Valley top gun chefs, Troy Rhoades-Brown of Muse Restaurant and Muse Kitchen, Chris Thornton of Restaurant Mason, Garreth Robbs of Bistro Molines and Josh Gregory of EXP. Restaurant.

Tickets always sell fast – but if you miss out don’t worry, it is but the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the opportunities to sip and savour alongside the region’s top chefs and vignerons in a series of wine events and trails, edible experiences, luxurious lunches and delectable dinners.

Find Your Groove Of course there’s more to the Hunter than just fine wine and gourmet food - and the region’s festival calendar is packed with events to feed the soul as well as the stomach.

Combine a visit to the vineyards with your passion to get fit and take part in the Winery Running Festival which will take place on 23 -24th July from Hunter Valley Gardens Village.

Why not head to one of the Hunter’s other tourist meccas for three days of smooth sounds at the annual Morpeth Chapel Jazz Festival which runs from 13 to 15 May.

Why just visit the cellar doors when you could see the vineyards from a whole new perspective, running through world famous gardens, historic homesteads, international golf resorts and of course, some of the most famous wineries in Australia.

While the historic town was the home of a major street-based jazz festival in the late 90’s and early 2000’s (until it outgrew the location), the traditional jazz tempo has been taken back up in more recent years by the Catholic, Anglican and Uniting churches of Morpeth.

The sounds of eight amazing bands will set feet tapping around the churches, Closebourne House and a number of local businesses during the three-day community event, which like many others on the Hunter calendar is focussed on bringing more visitors to the quaint heritage town.

The music festival vibes will continue later in the year with another Hunter event that has garnered a large and loyal following with Jazz in the Vines hitting the stage on October 29. As the longest running music festival in the Hunter (24 years), this year will unfortunately be the last so you'd better grab a ticket! It is considered your best day out - with slightly politically incorrect behavior actually encouraged!

The festival attracts musicians of national and international renown, fusing cool jazz with a hot menu of flavoursome food and wines to match, served up with a dash of perfect spring weather. Early bird tickets are now all sold out with general admission tickets now on sale.

The diversity of the Hunter is at the heart of its success as a tourist destination – and as a location for a number of other festivals.

While some may take it seriously, for others it’s a fun day out with courses to suit every age group and ability – from an ultra-marathon around the roads of Pokolbin to the 10.3km Vineyard Run through the wineries of the region, as well as a 2km “Kids Marathon” around Hunter Valley Gardens – the event offers runners the chance to pound the pavement in a truly unique Hunter way.

Competitors can run or walk any event and enjoy the convenience of the start and finish lines in the same area, as well as the sport and local produce expo and family entertainment on offer.

For a festival with a difference and that is more about taking the time to pause and smell the roses, then don’t forget the annual Spring Festival of Flowers which takes place throughout September at Hunter Valley Gardens.

A spectacle that has to be seen to be believed, the festival showcases the true brilliance of the gardens as more than 100,000 annuals burst into bloom across the Pokolbin site.

Coupled with a diverse line-up of entertainment, activities, attractions, demonstrations, talks, tours and workshops, the event is designed to immerse visitors in a visual and sensory experience they will never forget.

11 | MAY 2016 thb

Your Hunter Valley Festival Guide Tickets – Visit www.lovedalehuntervalley.com. au/lovedale-arts-festival to find out about the different events and buy tickets to the various ticketed events.

Grammar School Band, The New Empire Ballroom Ragtime Dance Orchestra, Jazz a La Carte, Smokin’ Chops, Frenchman Street New Orleans String Band, Le Toot Ensemble and Swingmania.

Tickets – All performances are free except for the Friday Night Jazz Cabaret, which cost $40pp (includes a 3 course meal and champagne on arrival). For bookings call Nicole on 4933 6980.

Lovedale Long Lunch This annual progressive style lunch sees long lunch-goers wine, dine and dance their way around the participating wineries over the weekend, whilst enjoying local wine, gourmet food and fabulous live entertainment.

When? Saturday 14th + Sunday 15th May. Where? At seven wineries throughout Lovedale Who? Allandale Winery, Tatler Wines, Gartelmann Hunter Valley, Wandin Hunter Valley, Saltire Wines, Sandalyn Estate and Emma’s Cottage Vineyard.

Tickets – Saturday Entry Package is $85pp (+ $5 Booking Fee pp) which includes entry into all participating venues on Saturday & Sunday. Sunday Special Package is $65pp (+ $5 Booking Fee pp) which includes entry into all participating venues on Sunday only. Purchase online at www.lovedalelonglunch.com.au

Upper Hunter Food and Wine Affair Hunter Valley Wine Festival With an extensive array of wine, food, beer and cider on offer, festival goers will be spoilt for choice as is always the case with a true Hunter Valley Experience. The event brings together the best that the Hunter Valley has to offer. With family friendly activities, light entertainment throughout the day and so many taste sensations to choose from, everyone is well catered for.

When? Saturday 4th June Where? Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley Who? Over 40 Hunter Valley wineries, breweries, distilleries and gourmet food producers. Full list of exhibitors can be found on their website.

Tickets – $20 include 5 tasting tickets. Buy online at www.huntervalleywinefestival.com

When? Throughout May + June.

Where? At various venues throughout Lovedale Who? Adina Vineyard, Allandale Winery, Lilino’s Restaurant, Ogishi Craft Centre, Howard Archbold Rare Chairs, Crowne Plaza, Lovedale Smokehouse & Majors Lane, Emma’s Cottage and Bluebush Estate.

thb 12 | MAY 2016

When? Saturday 7th May - 11am - 4:30pm Where? Ogilvie Street, Denman Who? Over 45 Gourmet Wine and Food Stalls, 5 live bands including Country Music Star Travis Collins and various kid’s entertainment.

Tickets – Entry is $10 for adults and $5 for kids, which includes an all-day unlimited ride pass.

Official event wine glasses with tasting tokens are $5.

A Taste of Wollombi

Lovedale Art Festival The Lovedale Arts Festival showcases a diverse range of art, music and sculpture with food and wine. You can enjoy the galleries, visit the studios, meet the makers to learn more about their work, and take the opportunity to purchase affordable art direct from the artists, while tasting the best of Lovedale wine and food.

Enjoy live bands, street theatre, food and Upper Hunter wines while the kids enjoy laser tag, gokarts, ironman challenge, wipe-out mechanical surfboard, face painting, Sparkles the clown plus loads more. There is little wonder, why it is described as ‘The Hunter’s Best Street Party!’

Chapel Jazz Festival

A celebration of all the village of Wollombi has to offer. Meet the vignerons and local artisans, sample fine wines and great food including an abundance of local produce including jams, olives, cured meats, cheese and more. Don’t forget to try Wollombi Tavern’s famous ‘Jungle Juice’!

The Morpeth Chapel Jazz Festival is a joint feature of the three churches in Morpeth When? Sunday 29th May + Sunday 26th June to present traditional jazz in a welcoming community environment to jazz lovers and their 10am – 4pm Where? Wollombi Village (along the main families. street).

When? 13th – 15th May Who? Vignerons and winemakers from the 6 Where? Various venues throughout Morpeth local wineries, Wollombi Tavern as well as a Who? Eight jazz bands will perform, including great selection of local artisans and gourmet New Orleans Quartet, Hunter School of food producers.

Performing Arts Stage Band, Hunter Valley Tickets – Free!

‘Behind the Barrels’

Bimbadgen Winemaker’s Lunch

Saturday 21st May 2016 As part of the Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival 2016, Bimbadgen are offering an exclusive opportunity to have an informative meet and greet within the winery with one of Bimbadgen’s Winemakers.

Canapes and Bimbadgen Sparkling served in the winery; followed by a 3 course lunch in Esca Bimbadgen. $95 per person / $85 per person for Club Bimbadgen members Bookings Essential.

Contact: Mikeala Ainsworth P: (02) 4998 4600 E: functions@bimbadgen.com.au

e nt m n i a m t p r -4 s Enteace from 1 uc k e t B a Liveon the Terr n o ro c i al s e C p 0 S 2 $ od Seafo Savour the weekend, kick back and relax with some great live music and Sunday specials!

BISTRO • LIVE ENTERTAINMENT • SPORTS BAR 790 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin Phone: 4998 4666 www.bimbadgen.com.au

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

Ph: 02 4998 4300 - www.harrigans.com.au - Broke Road Pokolbin

relax, unwind

& rejuvenate at Golden

Door

at Adina Vineyard 492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

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

Choose from our extensive range of transformative spa treatments including; luxurious body treatments, facials, relaxing hand and foot care, remedial and healing massages, our signature Watsu treatment and acupuncture.

Spend an hour, half a day or a full day at our world-class spa combining spa treatments, use of the steam room and spa bath or simply take some well-deserved time out with a book or magazine in our spacious relaxation lounge.

TO BOOK CALL 02 4993 8500 EMAIL SPA@ELYSIA.COM.AU OR VISIT GOLDENDOOR.COM.AU Golden Door Health Retreat & Spa, Hunter Valley 165 Thompsons Road, Pokolbin NSW

13 | MAY 2016 thb

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

Hunter Valley

Horse Ridingures & Advent

Trail Rides for Beginners and Experienced Riders

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

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

Mothers Day - Bring Mum Horse Riding and cook her a BBQ while she sits back and enjoys the beautiful country side!

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..

Organic Wines

GREAT TASTING • AWARD WINNING • CERTIFIED ORGANIC

ASCELLA IS THE LARGEST CERTIFIED ORGANIC VINEYARD IN THE HUNTER VALLEY AND FAMILY OWNED IN AUSTRALIA. THE COUNTRY CELLAR DOOR IS NESTLED IN THE PRISTINE THOMPSON’S VALLEY OF THE BROKE FORDWICH REGION OF THE HUNTER. ENJOY A UNIQUE WINE TASTING, BOOK IN FOR AN ORGANIC CHEESE & OLIVE TASTING OR JOIN US FOR A KICK BACK AND RELAX BBQ IN JACK’S ORCHARD WEEKENDS. PLEASE CALL 02 6574 5275 OR TEXT 0431357105

203 Thompsons Rd, Milbrodale, NSW 2330 www.ascellawine.com info@ascellawine.com

thb 14 | MAY 2016

Broke Fordwich is known for its stunning views.

Broke Fordwich

growing areas in Australia, it is only in the last 35 years that Broke

Heaven in the Hunter WORDS QUENTIN VON ESSEN

If you love wine and food – take a turn to the tranquil side of the Hunter Valley, where the pleasures of eating and drinking are celebrated daily.

It's been said that if you could package up the some of the best from all the major wine-growing regions of the world and put it in one place – it would be Broke-Fordwich where over 180 years of passion and dedication has gone into the craft of winemaking.

Located an easy 15 minute drive from Pokolbin, the Broke Fordwich Wine Region is considered to be a separate viticultural sub-region of the Hunter Valley and accounts for approximately 11% of the vineyard area planted in the Hunter Valley. The warm climate and fertile soils produce distinctive wines such as Semillon, Shiraz, Chardonnay and Verdelho and a number of alternative varieties that include Sangiovese, Barbera and Fiano.

With the Brokenback Range and the iconic Yellow Rock escarpment in the background, the Broke Fordwich region consists of two villages Broke and Bulga each with their own identity as well as the two smaller communities of Fordwich and Milbrodale.

Historically, the region was first inhabited by the indigenous Wanaruah tribe many thousands of years ago and were known as ‘the people of the hills and plains’ and many direct descendants still live in the area today.

These culturally rich people left many significant cave paintings in the area which are still accessible today.

The roots of old grapevines run deep in this part of the country with the area first settled as early as 1824. Despite being one of the oldest wine

TOP SPOTS

Fordwich has started to become an important player in the Australian wine making industry.

Today, Broke Fordwich is home to a handful of restaurants specialising in wine country cuisine and 11 boutique cellar doors that include Ascella Organic Wines, Brokes Promise Estate, Stomp! Wines, Mount Broke Wines, Greenway Wines and also Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard each, in their own way, providing a jolt of grape-fuelled energy to the foothills of the Brokenback Mountains .

For many, it is the unique character of the Broke Fordwich that is so special - vineyards in scenic surrounds producing award winning wines, majestic mountains, rolling vineyards, adjacent National Parks, rich Aboriginal heritage, and abundant native wildlife and the quaint village of Broke at its centre.

The region is also popular for its regular Broke Village Markets held on the first Sunday of each month and the annual wine, food and music events that include A Little bit of Italy in Broke held in April, Broke Village Fair on 11 September and Folk in Broke held on 12 November.

For a true local experience take the time to pop into Pickled & Pitted where you will find locally made olives, oils, cheeses, preserves, and other specialty items and also olive oil soaps.

The natural beauty of the region, coupled with fine Hunter wines, local farm produce, great places to stay and cultural significance make Broke Fordwich well worth a visit and a good reason to return.

Left to right: Tasting under the Mimosa tree at Ascella Organic Wines, the stunning view from Greenway Wines and Krinklewood in Springtime.

15 | MAY 2016 thb

Zaih’s Café...

A must try!

C OF FEE • B R EA KFAS T • LUNCH • CATE RIN G

Located in the heart of Lovedale, Zaih’s Café was a long held dream of owner Alana, who has had a passion for all things food, wine and coffee for as long as she can remember. After the birth of her son Izaiah, Alana and her family decided that starting their own business would give them the work/life balance they desired. As a result, Alana returned to the Hunter Valley which held many fond childhood memories and launched Zaih’s Café in February this year.

The philosophy behind Ziah’s Café is simple - offer customers the best coffee, café/bistro style breakfast and lunch items, which have a focus on quality and consistency, at an affordable price. Zaih’s Café offer a great variety of food to cover all their customer’s needs, whether it’s a prosciutto, buffalo mozzarella, tomato and basil toasted panini you’re looking for, or something substantial like slow cooked lamb, radish, goats curd and olive, or pan roasted barramundi with smoked eggplant, cauliflower and miso.

At Zaih’s, we want to offer our customers the best coffee and cafe/bistro style food. We have a strong focus on quality and consistency, at an affordable price.

Relax on the deck, or enjoy the comfort of the air-conditioned indoor seating area. We can take care of the rest.

BYO welcome.

332 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale OPEN Thursday to Monday 8am - 4pm www.zaihscafe.com.au • PH 0427 666 526

If your mouth is watering just thinking about Zaih’s Café, you can thank Chef Michael Robinson, who has spent 14 years developing his classic French style. Michael has worked in Michelin-starred restaurants in London and LA, before returning to Australia to join Justin North at Bécasse (two chef hats) where he worked for 5 years as joint head Chef before launching Bécasse group’s Quarter 21 (one chef hat) as Head Chef.

His experiences at these world class restaurants are clearly evident in his food, through classic flavour combinations and the freshest local produce presented with simplicity and elegance.

Zaih’s Café is open Thursday to Monday for breakfast and lunch from 8am to 4pm. For full menu visit www.zaihscafe.com.au

Hunter Distillery is a certified organic distillery in the Hunter Valley wine region of New South Wales.

Locally owned and operated, we produce an exceptional range of top shelf spirits, including Vodkas, Liqueurs, Schnapps and our award winning COPPERWAVE GIN. Visit and sample our unique range of spirits, with a flavour for every taste.

An amazing experience not to be missed.

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 thb 16 | MAY 2016

Hunter Valley Chocolate Co. Pure Indulgence

Check out whats happening on

Hermitage Road NEW MATILDA BAY BREWHOUSE HUNTER VALLEY We invite you to indulge in our fine 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

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

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 tailor make your wedding bonbonniere, or corporate gift packages.

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

www.huntervalleyliqueurs.com.au

Old No

23 Ogilvie St DENMAN | PH 6547 2840 Shop 6 Hunter Valley Gardens, Broke Rd POKOLBIN | PH 4998 7455

Singleton/ Branxton

Mistletoe Lane

H ermitage Road

Now in two great locations:

d Roa rth

HUNTER VALLEY RESORT

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

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

New England Highway

17 | MAY 2016 thb

From Adina Vineyard Whether it’s a delightful Pinot Grigio or a tasty Sangiovese that takes your fancy, you will find the line-up of Adina’s white and red wines have something to satisfy every taste.

We have a big following for these two Italian varieties that are perfect with pasta and white-meat dishes, and a great accompaniment to those autumn comfort-food dishes.

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.

The ultimate function and wedding venue…

Imagine your function or wedding in the picturesque grounds of Wynwood Estate, overlooking the vines, back dropped by the rolling hills of the Hunter Valley. The world famous wines are the perfect compliment Twine’s award winning cuisine.

Function and Wedding packages can be tailored to your tastes, catering for small intimate rendezvous’ with as few as 10 guests to extravagant weddings of 150 guests in the Barrel Room.

For all enquiries, please email bookings@twinerestaurant.com.au

VINEYARD

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

thb 18 | MAY 2016

Located at Wynwood Estate 310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

FOOD 5 WAYS

Sweet Beets WORDS Di von Essen

Beetroot has always been a classic Australian favourite – in fact, a burger is not a burger without the beetroot. To exclude it would simply be... un-Australian! It doesn’t matter what it’s served with, for me, beetroot is the hero of any dish. Yes, the red stains can be problematic, but I am still a beet advocate. I love it!

For those of us whose culinary experiences of beetroot have not been ruined by the over-pickled, sliced and tinned variety, you’ll appreciate that this humble root vegetable deserves its place not just as a side order but front and centre of many a dish.

If you’re into “classic-matches” then for beetroot it’s a cinch. Team them with extra virgin olive oil, butter, sesame oil, vinegar, soy, anchovies, scallops, prawns, lobster, prosciutto, pancetta, bacon, sausages, duck, venison, chicken, quail, celery, carrot, garlic (especially roast garlic), parsley, thyme, sage, celeriac or onion and you're sure to be serving up a winner. If it’s a colourful, versatile and tasty vegetable you’re looking for, then you cannot go past the beet.

Beetroots have long been used for medicinal purposes, primarily for disorders of the liver, as they help to stimulate the liver's detoxification processes. In Roman times, it was cultivated for its intensely coloured juice, to treat fevers and digestive disorders.

Whether you roast it whole, blend it into soup or blast it into juice like an Olympian, beetroot is low in fat, full of vitamins and minerals and packed with powerful antioxidants. Not only does it look good – it is good. In fact, according to www.bodyandsoul.com.au, from a nutritional perspective, beetroot also ticks all the boxes: • It’s very low in calories and contain zero cholesterol. Its nutrition benefits come mainly from fibre, vitamins, minerals, and unique plant derived anti-oxidants.

• Has long been hailed as a natural healer for it's blood pressurelowering benefits.

• It’s traditionally been used to treat fever, constipation, bloating and gas. Modern herbalists may advise beets to treat indigestion, lower blood pressure, prevent heart disease and even help to fight cancer.

• Early studies indicate that the beetroot’s prime antioxidant, betaine, may protect against liver disease - particularly the buildup of fatty deposits in the liver caused by alcohol abuse, protein deficiency, or diabetes.

• Dietary nitrate found in beetroot is thought to be a source of nitric oxide, which plays a pivotal role in smoothing muscle, and triggering it to relax. This permits increased blood flow around the body, potentially enhancing exercise performance.

For several years now, beetroot has been trending on cooking shows, in magazines and of course on our menus. In the Hunter Valley, you will find beetroot on many a menu from fine dining to café fare. Here’s our pick of local creations which undeniably give beetroot the spotlight it deserves!

Beetroot Three Ways at Circa 1876 – Crispy Skin Jumbo Quail Smoked Beetroots, Goats Cheese, Beetroot Puree, Garam Masala, Beetroot Chips and Fresh Garden Greens.

Golden Beets at Eighty Eight – Macadamia Crusted Ocean Trout with Glazed Golden Beets, Asparagus Spears, Sautéed Celeriac and Pickled Beetroot Puree.

Beetroot Terrine at Restaurant Cuvee – Beetroot and Goat’s Cheese Terrine, Candied Walnuts, Pear and house made Lavosh.

Baby Beetroot at Harvest Restaurant – Roasted Baby Beetroot with Goats Curd, Pickled Cherries and dehydrated Beetroot.

Beetroot Balls at Nanna Kerrs Kitchen – Beetroot and Feta Barley Balls made with organic barley, beets and local feta these have a nuttier taste than traditional Arancini – served with lime aioli.

WINE MATCHES When choosing a wine to match your dish, it’s a must to take into account the way the beetroot has been prepared as well as the other elements of the dish.

Pairing wine with beets alone can be difficult – the sweetness of the vegetable calls for a more acidic drop.

Luckily its versatility on the plate results in a fair amount of versatility in the glass and you can’t go wrong if you match your beets with…

• Chardonnay – For a treat try the 2014 The Loch Chardonnay from Lambloch Estate. RRP $50 • Gewurztraminer – Briar Ridge’s 2013 Cellar Reserve Gewurztraminer. This 100% Gewurztraminer is produced from a vineyard that faces south and east allowing for slower ripening, bright fruit with good natural acidity – a taste sensation when combined with the natural sweetness of beet. RRP $26 • Riesling – When it comes to Hunter Valley Rieslings you simply can’t go past Pokolbin Estate’s 2008 Riesling.

Pale green in colour with subtle toasty notes with excellent limey fruit. The long lingering acidity lifts the finish beautifully. RRP $25 • Rosé – Try the 2012 Peterson House Sparkling Brut Rosé for something different. A crisp and dry style of Rosé, the berry fruit flavours fill the front palate but citrus fruits still abound. RRP $27 • Pinot Noir – For a tasty beet and wine sensation Blueberry Hill Vineyards 2014 Blanc de Noir – this delicate sparkling Pinot Noir made as Blanc de Noir has an elegant floral and citrus palate with a long and refreshing finish. RRP $35

Buon appetito!

19 | MAY 2016 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.

Attention Cheese Lovers!

All the cheese lovers out there will agree with us that every day is the right day to indulge in the addictive dairy product that is cheese. Whether your go-to is cheddar or you find yourself dreaming about triple-cream Brie, you appreciate cheese in all its delicious shapes and flavours. But how much do you actually know about cheese?

Hunter Valley Cheese Factory provide samplings guided by their trained Cheese Specialists daily from 9am – 5.30pm. This is great opportunity to sample and try a selection of the handmade cow and goats milk cheese produced onsite including fromage blanc, feta, brie, washed rind, natural rind, cheddar, tommes and blue vein.

They also offer Cheese Tasting Boards for only $6.95 per person which includes at least five cheese, fruit paste and bread crackers. Daily cheese tasting notes are prepared, allowing you to learn as you explore the flavours of their cheeses. You are guaranteed to leave knowing much more about the wonderful world of cheese!

FOR YOUR DIARY 2016 Cheese Lovers Festival – Saturday 25th June Sebel Kirkton Park Hunter Valley Finally, a festival dedicated to our favourite dairy product, Cheese!

This exciting festival will combine elements of food, beverages and entertainment to create a ‘Cheesy’ day out.

The festival will showcase cheese, wine and craft beer stalls with tasting opportunities and cheese pairing for all to enjoy. There will also be the fancy cheese cake competition, cheese workshops and special presentations from Australia’s home cook hero Lyndey Milan, Hunter Valley Living Legend Bruce Tyrell and cheese educator Sonia Cousins.

Do not miss this opportunity to celebrate the great diversity and taste that cheese has to offer in a one-day indulgence festival! For more information, visit www.cheeseloversfestival.com.au

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

www.huntervalleycheese.com.au

thb 20 | MAY 2016

All things bees and honey!

Free tastings daily of a huge range of local and not so local honeys Hunter Valley Gardens Village Pokolbin Entry through the General Store… PH 4998 7191

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

WE BELIEVE IN THE SIMPLE THINGS IN LIFE. THEY JUST NEED TO BE AMAZING.

RESTAURANT

Restaurant Indoor/Outdoor Dining Fresh Local Produce Weddings, Events and Private Functions Wood Fired Pizza Oven

At Cockfighters Ghost Vineyard, 576 De Beyers Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7776 www.huntersquarter.com.au OPEN Lunch Thurs - Sun, Dinner Thurs, Fri, Sat & Mon

It’s time for High Tea! Indulge in your inner Marie Antoinette with a Traditional High Tea for just $42 per person. Book now and mention this ad to receive a complimentary glass of bubbles!

Valid until the 31st of May 2016.

Perfect for hens parties, bridal and baby showers and spoiling your loved ones for an intimate celebration.

Nestled within the grounds of Peppers Convent, and offering superb service and comfort, make sure to add 88 to your next foodie trail through the Hunter Valley. Farm to fork dining at its best!

Breakfast all days 8am – 10am Lunch Thurs Sun 12pm – 3pm High Tea 12pm – 4pm Bookings essential: Ph 02 4998 4999 | convent@peppers.com.au 88 Halls Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 | www.theconventhuntervalley.com

21 | MAY 2016 thb

• 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

Wine Glass Gallery Because great wine deserves a great wine glass

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

thb 22 | MAY 2016

455 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin NSW 2320

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

Come and enjoy a friendly Hunter Valley Experience!

Chad's House Made Gnocchi with Pumpkin and Sage Cream Gnocchi Ingredients

Chad Pridue

Head Chef at Restaurant Cuvee Raised in Newcastle, the laid back and all time nice guy, Chad Pridue was always going to be a chef.

For Chad, it was the time spent helping his mother in the kitchen that cemented his desire to work with food and become a chef.

After completing courses in food technology, Chad started work in a local pub before commencing his apprenticeship at the hatted Scott Street Restaurant in Newcastle, which had a reputation for serving up sophisticated and exquisite food.

It was here that Chad learned the importance of excellent customer service, having a good work ethic and attention to detail.

After a while, Scott then moved on to Cypress Lakes in the Hunter Valley where he not only completed his apprenticeship but was also given the opportunity to expand his versatility by working in al-a-carte and managing corporate catering and functions for up to 500 guests.

Driven and ambitious, after many years at Cypress Lakes, Chad felt the time had come to broaden his skills and experience working under different chefs and also learn the workings of other kitchens.

As a result, Chad moved to Sydney where he was offered a role at Four Seasons Hotel in George Street in Sydney.

For Chad, the Four Seasons presented the opportunity to learn about big companies and absorb the atmosphere of a well-known and worldwide establishment. Once again catering to functions for up to 800 guests and serving Molecular Gastronomy food in a 5 star al-acarte restaurant broadened his views on the mastery of becoming a great chef.

After spending 4 years at the Four Seasons, Chad decided to return to his home town of Newcastle to be closer to family.

Now the Head Chef of Restaurant Cuvee at Peterson House and serving Modern Australian cuisine at its best, Chad has developed a passion for working with fresh local produce, simple flavours and most of all, impressing visitors to the Hunter Valley.

With his a-la-carte menu reflecting the best from each season, Chad's flair is sure to please everyone’s palate.

150g plain flour 60g Parmesan cheese, grated 250g ricotta cheese 1 egg 2 tbsp fresh herbs (eg basil, sage, thyme, chives)

Puree Ingredients 500g pumpkin 250ml cream ½ brown onion 2 garlic cloves 100ml honey 10 sage leaves

Additional Extras

Roasted hazelnuts Goats cheese Honey Baby spinach leave Roasted pumpkin cut into 1cm cubes

Pumpkin Puree Method: 1. Preheat oven to 160 degrees.

2. Cut and de-seed pumpkin into chunks. Toss in oil, salt and pepper and roast at 160 degrees until cooked.

3. Sauté onion and garlic in a saucepan, add roasted pumpkin, cream, honey, sage leave and salt and bring to the boil.

4. Blitz mixture to a smooth consistency and season to taste.

Gnocchi Method: 1. Place egg, ricotta and flour into a bowl and mix by hand until combined. Once combined add Parmesan cheese, chopped herbs, salt and pepper.

2. Divide dough into 4 pieces on a floured bench. Roll into logs and cut into 2cm pieces to form gnocchi.

3. Boil a pot of salted water and add gnocchi slowly whilst water is moving. Boil for 3 mins or until gnocchi rises to the top. Remove with a slotted spoon and place in a bowl of iced water to chill immediately.

4. Once gnocchi has cooled and you are ready to serve heat a non-stick frying plan with oil. Place gnocchi in and cook until golden brown and crispy. Meanwhile in a separate pan, sauté baby spinach with oil, salt and pepper and add to pumpkin puree along with 1cm roasted pumpkin cubes.

5. Combine gnocchi and puree, garnish with honey, roasted hazelnuts and goats cheese.

ENJOY!

23 | MAY 2016 thb

LOCAL

Amazing wine in a stunning location

varieties to blend. Everything except the actual winemaking which he leaves to well known winemaker Gary Read and marketing which is the domain of wife Tracy.

Ivanhoe Wines Home to some of the Hunters finest Wines

With a reputation for producing a complete range of premium Hunter Valley wines and big gutsy reds, the historic property known as Ivanhoe Estate has been owned and operated by Stephen and Tracy Drayton since 1996. It’s also one of the most picturesque and most photographed properties in the Hunter Valley.

Son of the late Reg and Pam Drayton, Stephen is the third branch of the family to be involved in winemaking in the Hunter Valley, and in the last 20 years has brought his own particular style and passion into the making of his award winning wines.

Stretching across the foothills of the Brokenback Mountains, the property has been called Ivanhoe for over 150 years. It was first planted with vines in 1855 and today is made up of 80 acres of which approximately 50 acres are under vine with varieties that include Shiraz and Semillon, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Chambourcin and Gewurtztraminer.

As most of the Ivanhoe vines are over fifty years old, they are low yielding but their fruit reveals rich colours, good tannins and intense flavours which are distinctive to the Hunter region. The vineyard, planted on the side of Brokenback Range is one of the steepest vineyards in Pokolbin with rich, red volcanic soil and a limestone base - just perfect for producing great red wines.

Further down the slope, the soil is made up of a sandy loam which is ideal for producing excellent whites.

Stephen is a firm believer that the quality of the wine is decided in the vineyard and as a result is very involved and "hands-on" in the management of the vineyard.

"The production of complex and ultimately delicious wine is not entirely dependent upon the skills of the winemaker" says Stephen.

"When it comes down to it, it's the vineyards themselves that are of ultimate importance. Healthy vines create the best fruit and it’s in the vineyard where great wines begin - from the soil and how it affects the vine’s ability to grow and develop, to receiving the right amount of sun in order to ripen."

That said, Stephen also believes that there’s a healthy human component too. Deciding when to pick which grapes and crush them, ferment, age and bottle the wine are some of the many decisions that result in the differences between wines of the same variety, vintage and region.

But for Stephen, it’s often the weather that presents the biggest challenge and concern each year.

Drier years tend to produce great quality wines and as a result, a key priority is to carefully monitor the moisture and irrigate when necessary.

Of course vine disease remains a constant threat and although less of a risk in the drier conditions, the vineyard needs to have a spraying programme to reduce the threat of powdery mildew and botrytis.

Another challenge is weed management and managing the canopies which involves raising the canopy for each vine and trimming away excess leaf to allow for more air and enable the sunlight to reach the fruit.

Then comes Vintage, which takes place during the months of January to March, which are also the Hunter’s wettest months of the year (another challenge) – and with it long and seemingly endless hours spent in the vineyard with little rest and being on call 24 x 7 and rare moments spent with family.

But, while it can often mean long days and weeks and comes with its stressful moments, Stephen is quick to explain that the role can be extremely gratifying and is not without its rewards.

For many it may be considered "living the dream", but for Stephen and Tracy, managing a vineyard and winery can often mean having to work long hours six or seven days week.

“After all", explains Stephen, "I get to work outside in the field with the end result being a wine of great quality that people love and appreciate".

As owner and viticulturalist of a boutique wine business, Stephen wears a number of different hats - that include everything from administration and sales to vineyard management, harvesting and the selection of

For both Stephen and Tracy, one of the more important roles is the customer service role - and that is why you will always see one or the other at the cellar door talking to the customers as they sample from the range of Ivanhoe Estate wines.

thb 24 | MAY 2016

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

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

AWARD WINNING VENUE

/OishiiPokolbin

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

IVANHOE WINES…A Wine for Every Knight.

525 Marrowbone Rd Pokolbin | Ph 4998 7325 | Open 7 Days 10am—5pm | www.ivanhoewines.com.au

5 Star Cellar Door – James Halliday

2015

CERTIFICATE of EXCELLENCE

25 | MAY 2016 thb

The Hunters Premier Wine Destination Cracking wines, thirst quenching craft beers and delicious food all to be enjoyed in our beer garden with spectacular views.

Sample our famous "The Cracker" Cabernet Merlot in the cellar door or grab a beer tasting paddle in the brewhouse to try a selection of our 11 beers and cider.

Friday & Saturday nights come hang out for "Twilight Tastings" until 8pm through out March with pizza's available and a schooner of the day offer!

Planning a wedding or event? Come visit our estate to inspect the "Great Cask Hall", winery or many acres of lush green scenery available for your special occasion.

Visit hopeestate.com.au to find out what's on.

Wine and Beer Tasting Open 7 Days 9am-5pm - 2213 Broke Road Pokolbin, NSW 2320 - (02) 4993 3555

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

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 and foodies paradise. A leisurely 45 minute drive from Hunter Wine Country, the 180 year old Campbell’s Store houses 13 speciality shops, investment Australian Art Gallery, Antique Centre & 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

thb 26 | MAY 2016

Variety...

The Spice of Life.

These are definitely exciting times for the Australian wine industry but the signs are there that even more exciting times are yet to come.

The landscape of Australian wines has changed significantly over the last 10 years. No longer are wine lovers drinking just Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, nowadays they are itching to try something new and are increasingly drinking wines made from alternative grape varietals, in particularly the Italian and Spanish varieties that tend to suit Australia’s warmer climate regions.

These alternative wines can be described as being any variety other than Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Colombard, Grenache, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Shiraz, Riesling and Varieties such as Pinot Grigio/Gris have been around long enough to be Verdelho. Even this definition could be considered to be too narrow. readily available and considered to be mainstream.

While the varieties of Negroamaro, Barbera, Montepulciano, Fiano, Nero These newbies add another dimension to tasting wine, giving the d’Avola, Nebbiolo and even Grenache are hardly unknown varieties in consumer a touch of the exotic, new tastes and also provoking debate.

Australia, the term "alternative variety" encapsulates those varieties that stand outside the mainstream and are not widely planted. Having Driving the Demand for Alternative Varieties said that, there are also those little known varieties such as Furmint, The rise of ‘alternative’ varieties in Australia is becoming an increasingly Kadarka, Fer, Lagrein, Tannat and Harslevelu that are planted in very important topic for the country’s winemakers – even if it is a trend that small pockets around the country. has been on-going for several years now. It’s a trend that has largely For some years now, many Australian winemakers, including those in been driven by an increased awareness that the ‘traditional’ varieties the Hunter Valley, have been experimenting with 'new' wine grape planted in Australia – Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Chardonnay, don’t varieties, leading to the introduction of a number of new varieties on always suit the sites or regions they currently occupy. ► the Australian wine scene. These include Pinot Grigio/Gris, Viognier, Petit Verdot, Nebbiolo and Sangiovese.

27 | MAY 2016 thb

Montepulciano, Nebbiolo, Barbera, Tempranillo, Gamay, Aglianico and Touriga to their choice of red wines, and loving it. With the whites, they're interspersing Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc with the odd bottle of Fiano, Vermentino, Gruner Veltliner, Arneis, Roussanne, Savagnin, Friulano and Pinot Blanc.

While nothing will seriously challenge the dominance of Shiraz, Chardonnay and Cabernet in Australia with these three accounting for over 60 per cent of plantings (Australia produced 202,672 tons of Cabernet in 2015 for example) - there has never been so much interest from producers and consumers in so-called alternative varieties.

A growing number of Hunter Valley Wineries have adopted a number of alternative varieties that include Grenache, Tempranillo, Sangiovese, Durif, Nebbiolo, Barbera, Tannat, Petit Verdot and Chambourcin amongst the reds and Vermentino, Savagnin, Fiano, Pinot Gris/Grigio and Viognier amongst the whites – and with fantastic results.

Today, producers are also very aware of the impact climate changes (higher temperatures, more extreme weather events) are having on their wine grapes and are switching to warmer-climate and more resilient grape varieties to cope with these changing conditions both now and in the future.

This is especially so in the New World, where regions are still trying to identify their varietal comparative advantages and where regulations do not restrict varietal choice.

People are also behind this growing demand for new and interesting varieties. With travel, people become more adventurous with their drinking habits and they try new wines which they then like to see in their local bar or restaurant.

Wines for the Future The alternatives are out there, and people are buying them.

Adventurous drinkers are adding Sangiovese, Nero d'avola,

thb 28 | MAY 2016

Adina Vineyard, Tintilla Estate and Pokolbin Estate have wonderful examples of Sangiovese with Pokolbin Estate also specialising in a number of other exciting Mediterranean varietals that include Nebbiolo and Tempranillo. Adina Vineyard also has a wonderful Pinot Gris.

During the next few years, expect wines such as Vermentino, Savagnin and Fiano to become increasingly known and popular with white wine drinkers and close the gap to mainstream varieties, while Tempranillo and Sangiovese will continue to grow in popularity in the reds.

The Australian wine industry is at a major crossroad and has a superb opportunity to enhance its relevance to the wine drinking world over the next decade or two.

The point and growing importance of these new varieties is not that they are the absolute future for Australian winemaking (after all they represent a mere 2% of total plantings), but instead they are an exciting addition to a still-maturing and evolving industry.

Enjoy wine, enjoy friends and most importantly enjoy yourself. â–

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

Designed to Delight.

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

29 | MAY 2016 thb

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

Massive Wine Sale at The Garden Cellars Come in and Pick & Mix 12 wines from $90.

Huge selection of wine to choose from.

Mention this advertisement in store and receive a free bottle of wine with any purchase exceeding $30!

THE GARDEN

CELLARS thb 30 | MAY 2016

“Largest beer range in the valley!”

Come in and visit the ‘Tunnel of Beer’.

Stocked to the brim with delicious brews from around the world.

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

This exciting Italian variety is becoming increasingly popular in its adopted home of Australia where the variety is known for being adaptable to many types of vineyard soils and has proved suitable for cultivation across many Australian wine regions.

Although Sangiovese has been planted in Australian vineyards for the past few decades, it has only recently become a serious contender to the classic powerhouses red varieties. With the quality continually improving and Australians focusing more and more on enjoying wine with food, Sangiovese has definitely found a permanent place in our wine scene.

Sangiovese The Grape that Claimed the Heart of Italy Virtually synonymous with the red wines of Tuscany and all the romanticism that goes with the territory, Sangiovese is the most-planted red grape in Italy and is the most important grape variety used in the production of Tuscany's greatest red wines and provides the backbone to the popular wines of Chianti.

It is fair to say that today, no other Italian red commands greater worldwide recognition than Sangiovese and in an increasingly competitive global wine market, Italy’s abundance of native grapes provides a welcome point of difference.

Like all Italian wines Sangiovese demands food. With its dryness and high acidity, Sangiovese is extremely food-friendly and perfect with Italian dishes, and those dishes containing tomatoes or acidic tomato sauces.

It’s also well-matched for the flavours of chicken, grilled red meat, lamb, slow roasted pork, pastas, stews or well-aged cheeses.

Outside of Tuscany, Sangiovese is widely planted in Lazio, Umbria, Marche and of course Corsica where the variety is known as Nielluccio.

Worldwide, it has traveled to California and Australia, where its high acidity is an asset in the hot climate.

1

2

Sangiovese is also a component in many of Tuscany's "Super Tuscans," where it is blended with various proportions of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, or Syrah.

What sets a classic Tuscan Sangiovese apart from the rest is its refined and wonderfully pronounced backbone of acidity and it is this quality that makes Sangiovese an unrivaled choice for the dinner table.

From the Latin for sanguis Jovis, or “the blood of Jove,” mercurial Sangiovese has awarded Italy its best wine moments and became a major component of the super Tuscan revolution that brought Italy to the forefront of global wine.

TOP DROPS

The variety produces elegant wines with powerful aromas and is notoriously high in tannin and acidity but lighter in fruit. The characteristic flavours of Sangiovese range from cherries and red plums to herbs, spices and tea like flavours. The wines tend to be medium bodied, dry and usually quite savoury. The use of oak has become increasingly popular and used to draw the richer flavours from the grapes. While Italian styles tend to have more acid and tannin, the Australian Sangiovese wines tend to be a little fruitier, with riper flavours and higher alcohol. This wine is enjoyable in its youth, but it’s also rewarding with moderate to long aging.

Lighter styles of Sangiovese have proved to be useful red wines to pair with fish, especially when grilled or roasted.

1. TINTILLA ESTATE 2015 Saphira Sangiovese

3

Sangiovese has proved very successful in the Tintilla Estate vineyard for its flavours and style. The Saphira Sangiovese is produced only in the best years, with the wine aged in 30% new oak and the remainder in old oak barrels. It is bottled after one year and held for another year before release.

TASTING From an extraordinary year, this Sangiovese is a full bodied yet firm and elegant wine. It is medium ruby in colour with aromas of blackberries, cherries and redcurrant. The tannins are soft, dry and persistent.

FOOD MATCH Recommended with spicy sauced pasta dishes and mild tasting red meats.

2. ADINA VINEYARD 2014 Sangiovese Vines have been grown on Adina Vineyard in Lovedale since the 1860’s, with the modern vineyard mostly planted in the 1980’s.

TASTING A medium bodied wine with berry fruit flavours including cherries, spice and hints of cinnamon and star anise. The nose is complex floral and spicy and the palate shows light tannins and balanced acidity. A perfect luncheon wine or whenever a lighter style red is preferred.

FOOD MATCH A great accompaniment to veal, antipasti or pan fried salmon CELLARING Drink now to 2019.

3. POKOLBIN ESTATE 2013 Belebula Sangiovese With a freakish competition record, Pokolbin Estate has a reputation for producing outstanding wines and have had significant success with their Mediterranean-style red wines which includes the Sangiovese grown on their Belebula Vineyard.

TASTING The popular Belebula Sangiovese does not disappoint. This is an elegant, fruit driven style of wine that has a plethora of berry fruit and a touch of pepper and spice. It is savoury with red fruits and vibrant tannins and good supporting acidity.

FOOD MATCH Just superb with wood fire pizza, tomato-based pasta dishes, risotto or Mediterranean salads.

31 | MAY 2016 thb

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De Beyers Road

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Hunter Beer Co.

Potters Hotel

The Brickworks Brasserie

Lomas Lane

Capercaillie Wines

Londons Rd

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POKOLBIN2 (SOUTH)

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Handmade in the Hunter Markets at Kevin Sobels Wines

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Crowne Plaza HV Wine Festival Redsalt Restaurant

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Peterson House

LOVEDA

Harrigans Irish Pub

Australian Alpaca Barn

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LOVEDALE

Zaih’s Café

Brickmans Lane

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Ekerts Road

BROKE ROAD

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Gillards Road Constable Estate

MCDONALDS ROAD

Broke Village Markets

ALE RD

Hunter Honey Hive The Cellar Restaurant The Garden Cellars

Green Lane

Adina Vineyard HV Reflections Day Spa

The Deck Café

TO BRANXTON MAITLAND MORPETH

MORPETH

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Sabor in the Hunter

The Verandah Restaurant

Sabor in the Hunter

Australian Alpaca Barn

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Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen

Wilderness Road

Campbells Store

LOVEDALE ROAD

HV Chocolate Co. Hunter Valley Liqueurs & Baerami Olives

OU NT R Y

Wine Glass Gallery

Palmers Lane

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Australian Alpaca Barn

Bimbadgen Winery

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Hunter Valley Gardens HVG Shopping Village

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HV Horseriding and Adventures

TO WINE COUNTRY DRIVE

18

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17

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Ascella Pure Wines

Matilda Bay Brewhouse

Fleet St

Drinan St

Talga Road

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16

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HERMITAGE ROAD

Hermitage Road Cellars

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Hunter Valley Wine Theatre Hunter Valley Wine School

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7

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RidgeView Wines and Restaurant

6

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Blaxlands Inn K12 Circa 1876 L12 Eighty Eight L12 Epicure Café L11 Harrigans Irish Pub L9 Harvest Restaurant (Hope Estate) K12 Matilda Bay Brewhouse F5 Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen G14/O8

RESTAURANTS + CAFÉS

7

9

10

Oishii Japanese Thai L11 PK’s at Pokolbin L15 The Brickworks Brasserie (Potters Hotel) N16 Redsalt Restaurant K15 Restaurant Cuvee (Peterson House) K14 RidgeView Restaurant B7 Sabor in the Hunter K13/F15 The Cellar Restaurant K10 The Deck Café F18 The Verandah Restaurant I13 Twine O11 Zaih’s Café I17

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Australian Alpaca Barn K9/K10 Australian Alpaca Barn (Morpeth) B19 Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village K10

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Campbells Store (Morpeth) C18 The Hunter Providore (Adina Vineyard) H17 Pokolbin Estate M10 HV Cheese Factory L10 HV Chocolate Co. K10/K13/K14 Hunter Valley Liqueurs & Baerami Olives K10 Hunter Honey Hive K10

GOURMET PRODUCE

adee n Rd

Adina Vineyard H17 Ascella Pure Wines I1 Briar Ridge R12 Capercaillie Wines L16 Constable Estate J9 Hermitage Road Cellars F5 Hope Estate K12 Hunter Distillery K6 Ivanhoe Wines P8 Lambloch Estate K13 Peterson House K14 Pokolbin Estate M10 RidgeView Wines B7

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HV Wine Festival (June 4) K15 HV Wine Theatre F5 HV Wine School F5 iHop HV stop i

18

TO SYDNEY M1 PACIFIC MOTORWAY

Head to the Hunter Valley Wine Festival on June 4th.

TO QUORROBOLONG

Balloon Aloft (Pickup Point) K14 Cessnock Regional Art Gallery Q17 Broke Village Market K4 Golden Door Health Retreat & Spa L9 Handmade in the Hunter Markets K12 Hunter Beer Co. N16 HV Horseriding & Adventures D17 Hunter Valley Gardens K10 HV Reflections Day Spa H17

ACTIVITIES

Pokolbin Bottleshop K11 Pokolbin Village K11 Wine Glass Gallery K10

15

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Look out for Spencer at Briar Ridge Vineyard! R12

Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen

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COMING UP

04 HUNTER VALLEY WINE FESTIVAL at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley

An extensive array of wine, food, beer and cider will be on offer yet again as the Hunter Valley Wine Festival enters its fourth year. As always in the Hunter, you will be spoilt for choice as the best of the Valley come together, along with family friendly activities, light entertainment and various taste sensations catering for everyone.

Pre-purchased tickets are $20 (including 5 tasting tokens and tasting glass) and $25 on the day.

Those under 18 are free with an accompanying adult. Extra tokens are $1 each, available on the day.

For more information visit www.huntervalleywinefestival.com

June 11-12+25 HANDMADE IN THE HUNTER MARKETS Kevin Sobels Wines

11 HUNTER VALLEY SNAILS AT GEMELLI ESTATE Palmers Lane, Pokolbin Hunter Valley Snails are making their way to Gemelli Estate where you’ll have your chance to 'slow' down for the day! Try escargot with matched wine, Snail Races and Snail Art! This event is fun for young and old. Bookings are required for 8 or more people. www.gemelliestate.com.au

05 BROKE VILLAGE MARKET Wollombi Street, Broke

13 WOLLOMBI QUEENS BIRTHDAY MARKET Wollombi Village

5+19+26 PAELLA COOKING CLASSES at The Verandah Restaurant

Verandah Restaurant with owner and celebrated chef Matt Dillow.

These annual classes aren’t just educational, but fun too!

The cost is $90 per person with bookings essential, phone 4998 7231 or email bookings@ verandahrestaurant.com.au.

Learn how to cook a Spanish Paella, tasty Spanish churros and For more information visit of course Sangria at the renowned www.verandahrestaurant.com.au

thb 34 | MAY 2016

18 CORK AND FORK CUP at The Vintage Golf Course

For the ultimate Hunter Valley food and wine indulgence join The Vintage in an 18-hole round of golf with on-course wine and food tastings. The Cork and Fork Cup will give you the opportunity to play alongside some of the Hunter’s most renowned winemakers and characters, with the hole in one prize an allexpenses paid trip to Las Vegas!

To play you will need to register by Tuesday, June 7. $179 per player, with a 4 person Ambrose. www.thevintage.com.au

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JUNE JULY SNOWTIME IN THE GARDENS at Hunter Valley Gardens

Snow Time in the Gardens is a great opportunity for families and friends to get together and experience an icy wonderland over three huge weeks, including the winter school holidays! Chill out on the giant ice skating rink, the 25m ice toboggan and build a snowman the man-made Snow Play Zone!

With games, entertainment, warm beverages and hearty food, there is so much fun to be had for all ages. This is a day and night event running from 10am – 9pm every day. www.hvg.com.au

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CHEESE LOVERS FESTIVAL at The Sebel Kirkton Park

THE BEST OF THE EAGLES at Cessnock Performing Arts Centre

Cheeselovers unite! The Sebel will be showcasing the best cheese, wine, craft beer and compliments in the Hunter Valley, with tasting and pairing for all to enjoy. The main stage will host fun competitions, entertaining workshops plus live entertainment including soulful blues, folk and rock. Join fellow cheeselovers to celebrate the diversity and taste of all things cheese in this ultimate one-day festival - join the conversation with the hashtag #CheeseLoveFest.

For more information about what’s happening on the day and to buy tickets visit www.cheeseloversfestival.com.au.

Kids under 12 are free, adults $20.

The Best of the Eagles is a concert production, delivering a captivating show from start to finish that will deliver no less than the synonymous country rock sound Eagles fans have come to expect - timeless songs that are all part of the 20th Century musical landscape.

Celebrating 40 years since the release of the iconic album ‘Hotel California’, part one will see the classic album performed in its entirety. The second part of the show will conjure up the Eagles’ rock classics including ‘Take it Easy’, ‘Take It to the Limit’, ‘Heartache Tonight’, and so many more.

Tickets are $60, available from

cessnockperformingartscentre.com.au

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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 A unique selection of Australian and New Zealand fashion and accessories from Camilla, Mela Purdie, Tigerlilly, Verge, Willow & Zac, Samantha Wills, Solsana and more. Plus a small range of mens wear and accessories.

WINE GLASS GALLERY A unique gift gallery, colourful hand blown also crystal wine glasses, original artworks, homewares, collectable teapots, art glass vases, new season scarves, jewellery, shot glasses & a variety of souvenirs.

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 LITTLE PANTRY CO Relax and enjoy breakfast, lunch or a sweet treat. We offer a full range of Coffee Beans/Pods and Speciality Teas. Hunter Valley Cookies, the delicious and famous Hunter Valley Gelato and many more local products also available. It’s our very own Little Pantry.

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 Handmade premium cookies in designer gourmet flavours plus gluten free cookies now available exclusively at The Little Pantry - Shop 2.

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.

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