The Hunter Blackboard - January 2013

THE BLACKBOARD

JANUARY 2013

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

Sensational

HUNTER VALLEY

SUMMER WHITES

THE

Summer

Issue

SCHOOL HOLIDAY SPECIAL EVENT

THE DINOSAURS ARE BACK!

A TRAIL OF ART AT OUR

REGIONAL ART GALLERY SUMMER DINING TASTES BETTER

WITH FRIENDS! NEW GUIDE ENHANCES

THE HUNTER VALLEY EXPERIENCE

www.thehunterblackboard.com

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FOR YOUR

DIARY 1ST TO 26TH JANUARY

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SPECTACULAR at Hunter Valley Gardens This is a magical event the whole family will enjoy! Exci ng new displays and over a million Christmas lights on show throughout designated areas of Hunter Valley Gardens. Including special guest Santa, entertainment with fes ve food and beverages available for purchase on site. Also have your photo taken with Santa by a professional photographer. Village Shops and Cafes open late on selected evenings. Special night rates apply. On the 26th of January you can celebrate Australia Day and the last night of the Christmas Lights with entertainment, amusement rides, fireworks display and the final night of Christmas Lights Spectacular.

Visit www.hvg.com.au

3RD TO 20TH JANUARY THE DINOSAURS ARE COMING to Hunter Valley Gardens Come see, touch and feed these prehistoric creatures with Erth’s Dinosaur Pe ng ZooTM these school holidays! Experience a unique and interac ve show, which takes kids and adults on a journey through prehistoric Australia. See an amazing selec on of dinosaurs and creatures, which inhabited the landscape 10 million years ago. For more informa on see page 3 or visit www.hvg.com.au

18TH TO 28TH JANUARY AUSTRALIA DAY CELEBRATIONS at Bimbadgen Chuck on your best singlet and double pluggers and get down to Bimbadgen Cellar Door and Esca Bimbadgen restaurant for a celebra on of all things Oz. Checkout the Aussie BBQ from Saturday the 19th/20th and 26th/27th of January in the Bimbadgen Courtyard with the jukebox pumping out Oz rock classics and don’t miss the annual Warehouse Sale from 25th un l the 28th January. Esca will celebrate with a special Australiana degusta on from January 18th to 28th. For more info visit www.bimbadgen.com.au

SUNDAY 20TH JANUARY SACRED TREE MARKETS at Branxton These markets have taken the Hunter Valley by storm and it’s no surprise—the organisers are commi ed to bringing the community good quality organic foods, arts, handmade goods, fun for the kids and the perfect coffee! The markets are held at the Old St Brigids School Grounds on the corner of Sta on Street & the New England Hwy at Branxton. For further informa on visit ww.sacredtreemarkets.com.au.

24TH JANUARY TO 24TH FEBRUARY TRAIL OF ART at Cessnock Regional Art Gallery TRAIL OF ART, which opens at the Cessnock Regional Art Gallery on Thursday 24th January 2013, is a mul -dimensional exhibi on that showcases the combined talents of eighteen local professional ar sts who together form the Art Trail network. who recently joined forces to create a linked trail of open art studios across the Valley’s vineyards. For more informa on visit www.crag.net.au or see ar cle on page 4.

MONDAY 28TH JANUARY WOLLOMBI MARKETS at Wollombi Ca le Sales Yards Visit historic Wollombi on the Australia Day public holiday from 8am to 1pm, for this great market of over 100 stalls, including local produce and cra s, plants, clothes, tools, bric-a-brac and much more. This market a racts thousands of visitors to the beau ful countryside of the Wollombi Valley in the lower Hunter. Wollombi is just over an hour from the outskirts of Sydney and Newcastle and 30 minutes from Cessnock. Visit and experience the relaxed atmosphere of the Wollombi Valley, which boasts a wealth of ac vi es, accommoda on and a rac ons, such as bou que wineries, superb natural beauty, and a rich history. For more informa on visit www.wollombimarkets.com.au.

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PUBLISHED BY: WCP Media ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: PH +61 2 4930 9072 TheHunterBlackboard.com thehunterblackboard@gmail.com January 2013.

Copyright © 2012 WCP Media.

Published monthly by WCP Media.

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

Unsolicited contribu ons are always welcome, please contact WCP Media using the contact details above.

SPECIAL OFFERS AVAILABLE from 1st January 2013 until the 31st January 2013 inclusive or while stocks last.

GET MOBILE! View this month’s issue of The Hunter Blackboard on your iPhone, iPad, android tablet or android phone. Visit www.thehunterblackboard.com

or download the QR Code and get mobile!

SUMMER HOLIDAYS SEE THE

RETURN OF THE DINOSAURS! There have been several reported dinosaur sigh ngs around Hunter Valley Gardens over the past few days. Residents of the area are excited to report that they are expec ng a longer visit from their prehistoric rep le friends over the January school holidays.

From the 3rd to the 20th of January families and budding palaeontologists are invited to take a journey through prehistoric Australia that includes...

Erth Dinosaur Pe ng ZooTM (11am & 2pm Daily—excluding the7th and 14th of Jan) The most exci ng a rac on of the day is the Erth Australia Dinosaur Pe ng Zoo. Children will be able to help feed, water and care for the prehistoric marvels with simple lessons in animal husbandry. Hunter Valley Gardens also guarantees that all the dinosaurs at the pe ng zoo are herbivores so children will not be any danger Dinosaur Cra (10am to 2pm) Children can paint and colour in Dinosaur pictures or make their own Dinosaur foot print, as a memory of the day. They can take home their own special dinosaur cra to remind them of their prehistoric day.

Treasure Hunt Upon entry, children will be issued with a treasure hunt ques onnaire.

Throughout the day they can fill it out at their own pace, learning lots of interes ng trivia details as they explore the many themed spaces at Hunter Valley Gardens. Once completed, the ques onnaire can be exchanged for a very special prize.

Of course the Hunter Valley Gardens Train ($5 Children, $7 Adults) & Story Book Jumping Castle (10am to 2pm) will also be running.

The Dinosaur’s will be around during the day but will go into hiding at night so that we can all safely con nue to enjoy the Christmas Lights Spectacular right up to Australia Day! So don’t miss out on mee ng the Hunter Valley’s Gardens newest inhabitants this January School Holidays! For more informa on or to book ckets on-line visit www.hvg.com.au

ENTRY TO DINOSAURS General Garden Tickets (Day Tickets 9am – 4pm) (9th Nov to 26th Jan 2013) Adult (16yrs +) $25.00 ; Children (4-15yrs) $15.00 Children (3 years & under) FREE Seniors $20.00 ; Locals (within 40km radius) $20.00 Family Pass (2 adults & 2 children) $65.00 Family Pass Extra Child $7.00 CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SPECTACULAR - Day + Night Tickets If you wish to visit the Gardens during the day, you can return to the Christmas Lights Spectacular at a reduced rate.

Adult Day + Night (16yrs +) $35.00; Children Day + Night (4-15yrs) $15.00 ; Children (3yrs and under) FREE If you have visited the Gardens throughout the day, entry to the Christmas Lights Spectacular is just $10 per adult and FREE for children with your receipt as proof of entry. Gardens open 9am - 4pm. Closed 25 December.

This event will not open in adverse weather condiƟons. Tickets are non refundable, not redeemable for cash.

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THINGS TO DO IN

JANUARY

ON THE TRAIL TO OUR REGIONAL ART GALLERY TRAIL OF ART, which opens at the Cessnock Regional Art Gallery on Thursday 24th January 2013, is a mul -dimensional exhibi on that showcases the combined talents of eighteen local professional ar sts who together form the Art Trail network.

This community of painters, jewelers, printmakers, glassblowers, silversmiths and ceramicists stretches across the Lower Hunter Valley from Rothbury to Ellalong. They recently joined forces to create a linked trail of open art studios across the Valley’s vineyards.

The Lower Hunter Art Trail offers visitors a chance to engage at an immediate level with this group of highly talented ar sts and their artworks. It also presents an opportunity to experience the vast range of processes and techniques that they have developed over many years of full- me professional arts prac ce.

Ar sts in Trail of Art include well known regional painters, Diana Baker, Megan Barrass, Dorothy Compton, Les Elvin, Chris and Frances Fussell, Ann Grace-Smith, Julie Lau, Sue Linton, Karen Malmgren, Sally Ma hews, Rebecca Rath, Peter Sesselmann and Dorothy Wishney and along with ceramicist Adrienne Crouch, tex le ar st Alison Green, jeweler Gabby Horvath and glassblower Setsuko Ogishi.

This exhibi on is a rare opportunity to see such a diverse collec on of work in the one gallery space.

Trail of Art is a totally home grown product of the highest quality, which will be of great interest to everyone in the Lower Hunter, and well beyond.

Rebecca Rath ”Cock Fighter Creek“

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Free Entry. All Welcome.

Works for Sale. For more informa on visit www.crag.net.au.

FOR YOUR

DIARY

SUNDAY 27th JANUARY Drop into Adina Vineyard for JAZZ WINE DINE featuring Saxanova, a 4 course dinner and Adina’s award-winning wines. With over 20 years of experience in the industry both locally and interna onally, Saxanova bring formal training and a passion for music together to create a unique band that is sure to impress. Oozing cosmopolitan style and charisma, Saxanova bring an eclec c mix of jazz, funk and soul, and offer something above the ordinary. Bookings are essen al—but get in quick! Phone 4930 7473.

SATURDAY 11th MAY, 2013—OK—it’s a long way off but we can’t resist a good cause here at the Hunter Blackboard! Join us at The Hunter Banquet at Sal re Wines to raise vital funds for Maitland Hospital. Gourmet cuisine, bou que wines and live entertainment will be donated by Sal re Wines and other local businesses to ensure that 100% of the $150pp cket price can be used to purchase life saving equipment for the hospital. To offer support or find out more contact admin@maitlandhf.org.au. To join us at the Hunter Blackboard table give us a call on 4930 9072 or email thehunterblackboard@gmail.com. Stay tuned for more details!

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We’ll tell you...

WHERE TO GO  Where to find the Hunter Valley’s best restaurants  Where to find the Hunter Valley’s best Wines  All about some of the best Hunter experiences  What you should be drinking this season  Everything there is to know about some of the

Hunter’s best known identities  Interesting facts about the local area  How our restaurants stack-up with breakfast, lunch

and dinner reviews  Pick up a copy today or get the mobile interactive

version on your iPad, iPhone, or Android device by scanning the code! It’s FREE!

NEW

Issue OUT NOW Not only is Wine & Dine in the Hunter recognised as the most popular guide to all things to do with wine and food in the Hunter but it is the ONLY publica on to include Food and Wine Trail Maps for each of the wine producing areas making up Hunter Valley Wine Country and the ONLY publica on of its kind to provide dining and lunch reviews for some of the Hunters Valleys most popular restaurants.

This latest issue of Wine & Dine in the Hunter for 2013 is even bigger and be er than before with 96 pages burs ng at the seams with some of the best wine and food experiences in the Hunter Valley - from leading cellar doors, restaurants and cafes, gourmet food providers, dining and lunch reviews, food and wine related ar cles, wine and food trail maps to recommended wines and tas ng notes for readers to choose from.

Also in this issue you’ll find breakfast, lunch and dinner reviews of some of our favourite restaurants. Specially selected for dinner reviews were Roberts and Muse Restaurant & Cafe and three of the newest restaurants in the Hunter, Boy - Boy Restaurant, Twine

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WineandDineGuides.com

Restaurant and 1942 Harvest Cafe at Lindeman's selected for the lunch reviews. For the first me a breakfast review has been included with popular breakfast spot Restaurant Cuvee at Peterson House put under the spotlight (and we all know—it is the most important meal of the day!)

Readers can also read about one of our most celebrated chefs Troy Rhoades Brown of Muse fame and the Hunter's ''first family of wine'' The Tyrrell family.

With all cellar doors, restaurants and gourmet food providers listed by the region in which they are located - Wine & Dine in the Hunter remains the most user friendly and relevant publica on for visitors to the Hunter and it is also available via iPod, iPad and android phone or tablet.

Make sure you pick up your copy of the latest issue today, or visit www.WineandDineGuides.com for more informa on and to read the latest issue on-line.

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Sensational Summer WHITES

As the warmer temperatures arrive and people slip into celebra on mode , it's me to stock up with wines for Summer drinking and although it may have felt like Summer for some me already, the season's arrival has only just become official.

With Summer temperatures reaching average temperatures of around 25 degrees (C), crisp, lower-alcohol white wines are the answer to those sweltering days and evenings and they complement those typical summer dishes such as salads, dips, cold meats and grilled fish.

It's also the season to celebrate, so the ques on we should also be asking is ''what should we be toas ng with?'' Pu ng those refreshing lagers aside for a minute, there's a whole range of Summer white wines to consider - and it's a long list at that.

Sparkling Wines: One of the most popular wines at this me of the year and a wine that is great on its own or coupled with appe zers or an opening course in a meal. Sparkling wines pair well with raw or steamed shellfish, shrimp, salami, smoked salmon, stuffed mushrooms, Brie & Gouda cheese, sweet bread and marscapone cheese and fruit-based desserts. Our pick: Pierre's Wines (Branxton) 2009 Méthode TradiƟonelle; Chardonnay/Pinot noir, Dosage: ZD, Cuvée 936 ($40) Semillon: Semillon is the most renowned white variety in the Hunter Valley and when young is renown for its crisp, fresh and zesty style with a natural acidity and lemony characters. These wines make wonderful Summer wines and pair well with uncomplicated foods such as salads, most seafood - grilled fish, prawns, oysters, simply cooked white-fleshed fish as well as semi hard cheeses. As an aged wine (10 or more years) with mul ple layers of flavours , it goes well with a wide range of foods that include baked dishes, creamy pastas, smoked trout or salmon and roast stuffed chicken. Our pick: Ridge View Estate 2011 GeneraƟons Reserve Semillon ($25) and Tower Estate Hunter Valley Semillon 2006 (Museum Release) $35 Sauvignon Blanc: A very versa le and food-friendly wine that matches well with most foods that include fresh salads, creamy pasta dishes, spicy Thai food., fresh seafood, scallops and white fish - especially when served with a garlic sauce. It is also known as one of the few wines that can pair well with sushi and is terrific with appe zers such as cheeses (especially Chevre ), dips and an pasto pla ers. Our pick: Bimbadgen Regions (Tas) 2011 Sauvignon Blanc($26)

Gewurztraminer: Also known as Traminer and is easy to recognise by its heady, aroma c scent. It's versa lity and high natural sugar means it can be made into a wine with a bone-dry finish through to semi- sweet or sweet wine styles. Highly perfumed and quite full bodied with an intense and complex bouquet offering an explosion of exo c fruits such as lychee, passion fruit, pineapple and mango characters. Pairs beau fully with spicy dishes, Asian foods, strong cheeses and smoked salmon. Our pick: 2012 Hunter Valley Gewurztraminer - Capercaillie Wine Company ($22)

Verdelho: Verdelho is a great wine to be enjoyed on its own - say for a late a ernoon drink with friends. You can try Verdelho wine with tapas or appe sers, or try it with couple of freshly shucked oysters. Verdelho wines are sufficiently adaptable to meet a number of food pairing Semillon Sauvignon Blanc: A lovely Summer wine with flavours and op ons and are perfect for Summer or lunch me meals and pair well aromas that can include melon, pineapple, citrus, guava, passionfruit with seafood, lighter meats such as veal, pork, or chicken and hard and herbal notes. It generally has a refreshingly intense and pure cheeses. Our pick: Tamburlaine 2010 Reserve Verdelho ($30) and flavour with a tangy acidity. These wines pair well with seafood - simple Bimbadgen Estate 2011 Verdelho ($22) grilled fish, garlic prawns or char-grilled squid. Turkey, barbecued Viognier: Viognier shows its finest colours when paired with food. The meats, goats cheeses and Asian cuisine also work well. lighter more refined styles suit seafood, par cularly prawns, lobster Our pick: Wynwood Estate Grey Gum Semillon Sauvignon Blanc 2012 and mussels. Richer wines are well matched to spicy Thai cuisine, ($24) and LiƩles Wines 2010 Semillon Sauvignon Blanc ($19) Chinese and Mexican dishes, medium to strong and salty cheeses, Pinot Gris / Pinot Grigio: An excellent partner to food due to its good strong flavoured fish dishes, also pork and chicken based meals and palate weight and subtle varietal character. The fresh lighter styles go fresh fruit. Our pick: Wandin HV 2011 Viognier - Wandin Hunter Valley well with oysters, shellfish, mixed fried seafood or an pas and garden ($25) salads and is also sufficiently versa le to go with seafood pasta dishes Chardonnay: Chardonnay is one of the most widely grown grape or with tomato and basil based pasta sauces - whereas the richer full variety in the world, and can produce from medium to full-bodied. For bodied styles are well matched with roast chicken, pork or veal and many casual drinkers, it is the quintessen al white wine and although even many seafood dishes. Our pick: Adina Vineyard's 2011 Estate in general, it is a dry wine it can possess much broader flavours and a Pinot Grigio $27.50)and 2010 RidgeView Pinot Gris ($20) so lavish fruit driven style than many other whites. The last 20 years Riesling: It's a wine that has considerable flavour and acidity without has seen a shi in style moving from deep golden, heavy rich style necessarily having a high alcohol content with flavours ranging from chardonnay with melon and oily bu erscotch flavours to lighter, paler peach to melon and from honeydew to apricot. Riesling is mul acidic chardonnays with greater structure and notes of white fruity talented when it comes to being paired with food and goes well with essences. Chardonnay has the poten al to be paired with a wide range pasta, pork, turkey, grilled fish and Chinese cuisine. The more of food types and is most commonly matched with roast chicken, expensive Rieslings are dessert wines that are late harvested and can turkey and other game birds, pasta dishes in cream sauce, poached be enjoyed on their own or a er a meal, but are o en paired with salmon and Thai cuisine. Our pick: Tower Estate Hunter Valley desserts. Our pick: 2011 Pokolbin Estate Vineyard Hunter Riesling ($25) Chardonnay 2011 ($30) and DenMar Estate Chardonnay 2009 ($28)

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If your mouth waters at the mere men on of a warm biscuit straight out of the oven...then head off to Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village on Broke Rd at Pokolbin! Here, just inside the entrance you’ll find Hunter Valley Cookies ...just follow the warm cookie scent!

Many will remember their Mum’s and Nan’s making cookies for them when they were kids, and it was exactly this memory that inspired Sheryl Machain and her sister Jenny to start Hunter Valley Cookies 10 years ago. They could never have imagined what a success story the company would become.

From humble beginnings (the sisters rented the kitchen at Maitland Gaol on a casual basis and started making cookies by hand to sell at Maitland markets), the pair now call Hunter Valley Gardens their home, where they can be found turning out over 35,000 cookies a week!

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Even with such phenomenal growth, Mrs Machain says they’ve never compromised the quality of the product “we s ll make the cookies by hand from scratch, using real bu er and real eggs” she said.

“We s ll mix and make by hand, scooping it from the bowl with an icecream spoon and pressing the mixture with a fork—just like Nan used to do!”

The shop at Hunter Valley Gardens Village has a lovely al fresco terrace area where visitors can enjoy a relaxing tea or coffee with a great range of biscuits that are s ll warm from the oven.

Hunter Valley Cookies come in eight mouth-watering varie es including Macadamia Madness, S cky Date and Ginger, Triple Choc and Walnut, Cherry Bomb and “The Full Monty”.

The “Chunky Dunk” (it’s a chocolate and coconut combina on that tastes like a coconut rough) was created to commemorate the opening of the Hunter Valley Gardens shop and is s ll a favourite almost two years later. See you there!

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H U N T E R VA L L E Y

SEMILLON O en referred to as ''Australia’s unique gi to the wine world'', Hunter Valley Semillon is a unique white wine which keeps ge ng be er with age and is considered to be the highest quality and best example of dry white Semillon wine produced anywhere in the world.

The exact origin of the Semillon grape is diďŹƒcult to establish, however, it's home is considered to be the South West of France more specifically Bordeaux, where it is the most widely planted white grape in the region.

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

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

Australia's best Semillon is the dry style from the Hunter Valley, where the fruit is picked early, with low sugar levels and fermented dry without the use of oak and then bo led. Classic Hunter Semillon is restrained, with piercing acidity and lemon flavours. These wines are renown for their ability to age well, evolving through an array flavours, slowly developing into richer and more honeyed characters.

The Classic un-oaked examples of this variety can be enjoyed for up to 20 years.

When it comes to food, this wine is well matched with grilled fish, smoked salmon, creamy pastas, lemon based sauces, shellfish or oysters and most other seafood as well as semi hard cheese You will never be sorry if you have a couple of bo les of both young and aged Semillon handy for a seafood luncheon.

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BEHIND THE

CELLAR DOOR

In January the grapes are filling out as they ripen and develop full colour. Sugars are gradually building and vi culturists start to taste and monitor the grapes for sugar content and acid level in prepara on for harvest. This is me when harvest and crush equipment is tested for problems and pickers employed. New barrels are soaked in prepara on for the new harvest.

Here in the Hunter Valley because of our warmer condi ons vintage can commence as early as January with Semillon being the first variety to be picked.

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

Mul -award winning McGuigan Wines has extended its interna onal success by winning the InternaƟonal Winemaker of the Year trophy for the third me in four years at the pres gious Interna onal Wine & Spirit Compe on (IWSC). Following similar wins in 2009 and 2011, this latest award makes McGuigan Wines the first winery to receive the accolade three mes in the 43 year history of the compe on. McGuigan Wines was also named Australian Producer of the Year at the same compe on.

The key to winning the world’s best winemaker award was McGuigan Wines performance across the compe on with the rarely achieved 100% success rate of 39 medals won from 39 wines entered - including the Interna onal Semillon Trophy, nine gold, 22 silver and eight bronze medals including eight ‘Best in Class’ awards.

McGuigan Wines chief winemaker Neil McGuigan said the award was an outstanding result for the brand and also for Australia. “We’ve come a long way from our humble beginnings in the Hunter Valley. To be the only winery in the world to have won world’s best winemaker three mes is a testament to our commitment to quality. We can now proudly say that we are now one of the most awarded wineries in the world'' Adding to a highly successful year, and having already received the award in 2009, McGuigan Wines was also named 2012 White Winemaker of the Year at the Interna onal Wine Challenge (IWC) in London, just a few months earlier, narrowly edging out two French wineries for the highly coveted trophy.

The Hunter Dis llery (producing vodka and schnapps) is now open on 1686 Broke Road Pokolbin. The Hunter Dis llery is open five days a week from Thursday to Monday and have a dozen different flavours of vodka and schnapps available for tas ng and purchase - from the unusual chilli vodka to the all me favourite bu erscotch schnapps. Phone: 4998-6737 Rising demand for high quality Australian wine: The future con nues to look posi ve for Australian exports of wine as the demand for highquality wine in China con nues to rise. Over the past five years, China's growing taste for Australian wine has increased sales by over 250 per cent from 2007 to 2010. Since 2010, reported growth has slowed slightly but Australia remains the second-ranked exporter to China a er France.

See the new issue of Wine & Dine in the Hunter for a comprehensive list cellar doors, suggested wines, local restaurants, dining reviews and food and wine trail maps for each of the 5 key wine growing areas.

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What’s Bubbling..

AT THE BREWERY Head Brewer Keith Grice and Jess "the awesome brewer'' oer a wide selec on of award winning beers - from the bold American style Pale Ale, the dark German styled Bock, the ever popular full strength Lager, the incredibly refreshing Kolsch to the pale and yet light flavoured Belgian Witbier. There are also deliciously crisp Ginger Beers and low alcohol beers.

Think of the expression ''bou que beer'' and you immediately associate it with high quality beer coupled with a finely tuned produc on process. The Hunter Beer Company brew a unique range of hand cra ed beers at their premises in Nulkaba, with all beers brewed from 100% natural ingredients and no preserva ves used.

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But, every now again they are challenged to come up with something new and unique and this year the ''Rum Ball Beer'' was especially brewed for Christmas but also available through January. Using Jess's mothers rum-ball recipe, the beer has toasted coconut, vanilla, fruit and of course rum flavours. For the adventurous, the team has also created a beer especially for January - the ''Banana Smoothy Beer'' which is light with honey, banana and coconut flavours.

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EMMAS OF LOVEDALE

Just that little bit different...

Emma's Co age Vineyard is once again on the food scene with the recently opened Emma's of Lovedale restaurant, this me in the experienced hands of mul -talented restaurateur, Munich born Friedy Meinel, who is fast crea ng a loyal following of diners at his new restaurant.

Qualifying from the Hotel school in Switzerland, followed by numerous overseas pos ngs, Friedy moved to Australia to take up a posi on with Coast Line Hotels with four residen al hotels in Sydney and later as General Manager for the Bonville Interna onal Golf resort in Coffs Harbour.

AT THE GATEWAY TO WINE COUNTRY...

Now under new management and the steady eye of Irene, Wine Country Café is one of the first places that come to mind when thinking of a great coffee, a wholesome breakfast or that quick bite when entering, or leaving, Wine Country.

Located at the visitors informa on centre on Wine Country Drive and just opposite the Crown Plaza, Wine Country Café offers convenience and loca on along with a great all day breakfast and lunch menu.

Relax and enjoy a bite to eat before exploring the surrounding wineries or wind down a erwards with a simple freshly made meal. Diners can choose to eat inside or dine al-fresco in the a rac ve courtyard. There’s also a range of hampers & pla ers available for picnickers. Give it a try today!

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Deciding to go into business for himself, Friedy opened a specialty game restaurant in Inverell and later a fine dining restaurant in Coffs Harbour called ''Bentley's on Elizabeth'. Friedy and his partner decided mid-way through 2012 to open a restaurant at Emmas Co age Vineyard owned by Alec and wife Megan Barrass—who is also a renowned local ar st.

A er opening in September, and serving up lunch and dinner Thursday to Sunday with (awesome) breakfasts on Saturday and Sunday, Emmas of Lovedale is fast growing in popularity amongst locals and visitors to the area. The small seasonal menu is full of individual flavours, reflec ng modern Australian and European influences and with table cooking (flambé) being a highlight - and with modest prices too. The walls of the restaurant feature the works of the celebrated local ar st Megan Barrass.

All up, it's just that li le bit different - and - really interes ng!

OWNER & CHEF

THE VERANDAH RESTAURANT

FOCUS ON

Matt DILLOW

Born and raised in Sydney, Ma Dillow first started cooking at the age of 15 and spent much of his appren ce years working for Rydges Hotels and Resorts and finally at the Alpine Resort in Thredbo.

Ma then went to work at the stylishly restored Hotel CBD Sydney and Slip Inn in Sussex Street, before finding himself back at the Rydges Hotel in North Sydney, but this me in the posi on of Head Chef.

It was at this stage of his career that Ma decided to travel through Europe to experience as many food cultures as possible. On his return to Australia, he took on the role of head chef at Barrenjoey House, where he played a significant role in revitalising the historic dining venue in Palm Beach, before deciding to open his own restaurant in 2007 - The Verandah Restaurant situated on the very picturesque Calais Estate in the Hunter Valley.

The Verandah Restaurant up un l its closure in 1995 had a long and interes ng history as one of the best restaurants in the Hunter Valley and was once the restaurant of the iconic chef Robert Molines.

Having been closed for 12 years, the restaurant was in dire need of restora on, but for Ma many of the posi ves were already in place and included a pres gious wine label and a stunning vineyard se ng. Also, having to refurbish the building provided Ma with the opportunity to put his personal stamp on the building.

Wan ng to do something dierent with the restaurant, Ma decided to provide his clientele with a modern Australian Tapas Style dining experience - a style of dining he prefers himself. Since opening in 2007, The Verandah has been a finalist in many awards for excellence including ''Best Tourism Restaurant'' and also ''Best New Restaurant in the Hunter Region''.

As the restaurant became more recognised, Ma started to spend more of his me working with the local community which led to the emergence of the successful series of Locals Nights Dinners - with the menu each month designed around a specific country, culture or food aspect. Ma also started an o-site catering business, allowing himself to be more involved in local events and wine and food fes vals.

Never one to sit s ll for too long, and just five years a er opening The Verandah Restaurant Ma , along with Sydney Chef and long me friend Adam Ireland, launched the new restaurant ''Twine'' at Wynwood Estate on Oakey Creek Rd in Pokolbin serving up Modern Australian cuisine and boas ng some of the most fantas c views in the Hunter.

Ma considers his proudest career moment to be establishing The Verandah Restaurant five years ago, and when not focused on the business Ma loves to spend his me with wife Monika and his two beau ful li le girls.

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WHAT’S NEW IN FOOD

UNDER THE TABLE

At this me of the year, diners will find that seasonal menus reflect the change in temperature. Summer is the perfect me of the year to make the most of the warm weather with a mid a ernoon meal or dine al-fresco under the stars making the most of the warm evenings.

Here are some of the latest happenings on the local Food Scene at this me of year.

Joshua Gregory of Muse Restaurant & Cafe has won the Hunter Ins tute of TAFE and the Hunter Chefs & Co 2012 Bre Graham Award.

Joshua will now undertake a two week sabba cal at the 2 Michelin Star Ledbury Restaurant in No ng Hill - London - owned by former Hunter Valley chef Bre Graham Vi orio's Cafe Restaurant in Pokolbin con nues to have their popular Pizza & Pasta Tuesday Nights each Tuesday night for just $25 per person. Ph: 4998 7945 Fireside Sundays at Twine Restaurant! Join Adam and his team on Sunday evenings from 5.30pm - 7.30pm and receive a Mezze plate, a selec on of meats plus sides followed by dessert for just $45 pp (kids under 12 eat free). To book phone 4998 7449 Locals Night at Roberts Restaurant - every Tuesday and Wednesday night... Mul -award winning Execu ve Chef George Francisco has created a specials locals night menu for these always popular dinners.

Ph: 4998 7330.

RidgeView Restaurant is the perfect spot for Summer alfresco dining, overlooking the vineyards - with a new seasonal menu u lising organically grown produce from their kitchen garden and local suppliers. Try the Cypriot Meze menu - 14 dish, 4 course feast.

Ph: 6574 7332 Recently opened Boy O Boy Restaurant at Tempus Two Winery provides ''food with a French twist'' and is now oering ''Mystery Vineyard Lunches''. Chefs Ben and Peter use fresh daily ingredients to compose a mystery 3 course menu on the day for just $45 - matching wines $15. Ph: 4998 6980 Harry's at Tatler in Lovedale is celebra ng Summer with ice cold ''dirty granny'' mature cider - a full bodied crushed apple cider that works well with their simple chef cra ed food. Ph: 4930 9139 Recently opened restaurant Emmas of Lovedale, is ''wowing'' customers with great breakfasts, lunches and dinners and with modest pricing. Ph: 4998 7333 Esca Bimbadgen is serving up High Tea - 7 days a week from 3pm to 5pm. $40 for two people or $50 for two people with a glass of Bimbadgen Sparkling Semillon or Rose. Ph: 4998 4666 Beltree Restaurant has extended their opening mes to include breakfast on Sundays and are now open on Friday and Saturday for lunch and dinner and Sunday for breakfast from 9am to 11am (or stay for lunch). Ph: 6574 7216 Amore Cheese will be providing beginner and advanced cheese making classes each month from February 2013 at Mount View Estate. Classes will include a gourmet lunch with wine.

For a comprehensive list of local restaurants, dining reviews and food and wine trail maps for each of the 5 key wine growing areas - see the latest issue of Wine & Dine in the Hunter

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It’s a little bit cheesy!

Wine and cheese are old friends, with a strong affinity going back thousands of years. Both are fermented products and require pa ence, care and moderate temperatures to mature naturally. Although a highly subjec ve topic, matching cheese and wine can also be a great deal of fun - so what be er place to try specialty handmade cheeses than at the Hunter Valley Cheese Co - right in the middle of Hunter Valley Wine Country and right next door to McGuigan Wines.

At Hunter Valley Cheese Co, you get to sample their magnificent range of speciality cheeses that include the award winning Branxton Brie, Riley’s Marinated Fromage, Hunter Valley Marinated Feta, Grape Vine Ashed Brie, the Hunter Gold & Pokolbin Smear Ripened Washed Rinds and Pokolbin White Natural Rind. All fabulous...

But, if you have already made your wine purchases at a few cellar doors, you may now find yourself at a bit of a loss as to what to serve with them.

• Fruity, sweet wines and dessert wines work well with a wide range of cheeses and therefore the safest op on when presented with a cheese pla er

While there are no hard and fast rules to wine and cheese matching, the following simple ''rules of thumb'' tend to work well: • The more pungent the cheese the sweeter the wine should be .

Another handy p is to consider the texture, colour or flavour of • Match white wines with so cheeses and those with stronger the cheese when choosing a wine. A sparkling white wine for flavours example goes well with a Brie or Rico a. Fruity flavours in cheese go well with fruity wines, weigh er cheeses match well • Match red wines with hard cheeses and those with milder with weigh er wines and the whiter and fresher the cheese, the flavours whiter and crispier the wine choice should be.

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Summer Dining

There are few things more enjoyable than ea ng a wide variety of small dishes as an appe ser, snack or in combina on to form a main meal whether it be for lunch or dinner. Over the last 10 years tapas or shared pla ers ''divvy dishes'' style ea ng has become a fast growing trend worldwide, which comes as no surprise to foodlovers - a er all what could be be er than mixing and matching all the glorious taste sensa ons for lunch or dinner with that perfect bo le of Hunter Valley wine?

TASTES BETTER SHARED

cayenne baby calamari with lime aioli, Spanish croque es, grilled chorizo, rosemary and orange chicken skewers, Asian style pork belly, crispy chat potatoes with garlic: $80 per tower, serves two.

Alterna vely choose from the modern Tapas style menu showcasing the best local produce. Lunch Thursday to Sunday from 12pm to late. Ph: 4998 7231.

Harry's at Tatler - Lovedale Rd - Lovedale.

With a constantly changing menu this popular dining venue for These dishes may be served cold (such as mixed olives and cheese) both locals and visitors to the Hunter is fast earning a reputa on or warm (such as chopitos, which are ba ered, fried baby for being one of the most pleasant dining experiences in the Hunter Valley. ''Food for sharing'' is how Harry likes to describe his squid). Its a great way to dine and it is always for sharing... dishes. Try the salmon, avocado and king prawn rolls or the flour Here are some of best known restaurants serving Tapas style or dusted squid, the deep sea scallops or prosciu o wrapped veal "'shared food'' type dishes... medallions. Everything is superb about this place! Harry's at Tatler Emerson's at Pokolbin - Hermitage Rd - Pokolbin provides a relaxed family friendly, casual environment and the Having won the award for Best New Restaurant and the AGFG Chef stunning views of the vineyard and broken-back range set the Hat for 2011, Emerson's is one of the most iconic dining scene for a relaxed and indulgent meal. Lunch Thursday to establishments in Hunter Valley. Emerson's offers Tapas for a Tuesday from 12pm. Ph: 4930 9139 casual and yet in mate lunch. Menu choices are extensive and Wandin Wine Bar & Diner - 12 Wilderness Rd - Lovedale dishes beau fully prepared. Menu choices include: peppered crisp Situated on the beau ful Wandin Hunter Valley Estate and with squid with lemon aioli, garlic prawns, seafood paella, shredded views overlooking the vineyards and the Brokenback Mountains in beef, patatas brava's and Spanish onion, roast pork belly, saffron the background, the newly renovated Wandin Wine Bar & Diner rice and sofrito and fried red emperor, shaved fennel with provides a ''divvy dishes'' style of dining with a menu offering both escabeche sauce. Hard to beat! Lunch Thursday to Monday 11am local favourites and new American influenced cuisine. to 3pm. Ph: 4998 7733 The perfect loca on for an icy cold beer and Wagyu Beef Sliders or The Verandah Restaurant - Palmers Lane - Pokolbin dine with a group if friends and enjoy an array of share plates With sweeping views over the vineyards and Brokenback Mountain whilst overlooking the vines from the deck. There are range the Verandah Restaurant provides a dining experience that approximately 20 menu items to choose from such as the New encapsulates the essence of the Hunter lifestyle. Try the Tapas England crab cakes with Tartare sauce, sizzling garlic and chilli Tower consis ng of house made dips with crisp flat bread, orange prawns and blackened salmon fillet with collard greens. All and spiced mixed olives, charred red capsicum filled with house excellent... Match your lunch choices with award winning Wandin made labna, rocket and parmesan salad, rockmelon wrapped wines . Open for lunch daily from 12pm. Phone 4930 9888 prosciu o, grilled haloumi with rhubarb compote, cumin and

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Step up to the crease at..

WANDIN

One of the Hunters most relaxing wine and food experiences to be had is at this unique picturesque 100 acre estate in Lovedale with its long winding driveway flanked by the large bird filled dam and country cricket ground overlooked by a gracious Cricketers Pavilion - a popular venue for weddings. The “Wandin tradi on” is that the wedding party plays a game of cricket the next day (if they are s ll capable that is) hence the authen c Pavilion. The other popular wedding venue is the Barrel Room - a working store, adorned with a magnificent chandelier crea ng a truly roman c se ng.

At the top of the property is the James Halliday 5-Star rated winery producing premium quality wines sold from the atmospheric cellar door upstairs. Produced in 3 dis nct ranges, the Reserve Range is their top er of wines that are produced in limited quan es and typifies the quality of the vineyard and winemaking. The Estate Range demonstrates a modern approach to winemaking producing stylish wines that highlight the best of each variety and with great early drinking appeal. The Pavilion Range of wines, named a er the Cricketers Pavilion, are of excellent quality and value and just perfect for any occasion.

Adjoining the cellar door is the recently revamped Wandin Wine Bar & Diner, a popular spot for both locals and visitors to the area, offering casual alfresco dining with views overlooking the vines from the deck. It is here that talented chef Michael Bright serves up a delectable array of ‘divvy dishes’ - a shared plate style of dining with a menu designed to offer both local favourites & American influenced cuisine.

The restaurant is open for lunch daily from 12pm, and dinner Thursday, Friday & Saturday evenings.

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It’s back to business for our vineyards which are now in full production mode so get out and about to discover the Hunter Valley at it’s summer-time best!

Until 24th February...TRAIL OF ART at Cessnock Regional Art Gallery a mul -dimensional exhibi on that showcases the combined talents of eighteen local professional ar sts who together form the Art Trail network. This community of painters, jewelers, printmakers, glassblowers, silversmiths and ceramicists stretches across the Lower Hunter Valley from Rothbury to Ellalong. They recently joined forces to create a linked trail of open art studios across the Valley’s vineyards. For more informa on visit www.crag.net.au 8th & 9th February ...THEATRE IN THE VINEYARDS .

“DAYLIGHT SAVING” at Adina Vineyard. Wri en by Nick Enright, this award winning Australian comedy was published in

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1990 a er its first staging in 1989 by the Ensemble Theatre, Sydney. The play is set in a house overlooking Pi water, north of Sydney, over two weekends in March. The second weekend the clocks are set back one hour as daylight saving ends...and the rest you’ll have to find out for yourself! Show only and Show & Dinner packages are available at www.adinavineyard.com.au.

Thursday February 14th— VALENTINES DAY at Harrigan’s Irish Pub. Yes it’s that me of the year again... me to proclaim your love and what be er way to do it than with a free glass of sparkling on arrival and a great valen nes day special menu. Visit www.Harrigans.com.au.

Saturday 16th February will see Carole King performing at Hope Estate. Carole King, one of music's true legends returns for a night under the stars.

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HunterValleyShopping.com.au

SCAN & GRAB YOUR COPY TODAY

Shop BEAUTIFUL

THINGS An exquisite array of spectacular jewellery, stylish watches, amazing giftware and home wares. 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.

CHRISTMAS IN THE VINES Where it is Christmas every day. Come on in to our little cottage, and see the great Christmas bargains in store.

GEMS4U Visit Gems4u and select from a wonderful range of amazing and unique pieces—Gemstones, Minerals, Fossils, Beading and Gift Certificates.

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, nonfiction, and children’s books and a unique collection of quality toys, games, souvenirs and gifts.

WILSON & HUNTER Summer is heating up at Wilson and Hunter with a burst of colour. The latest from Camilla, Mela Purdie, Verge, Katherine, Samantha Wills, Metalicus, Bleu Blanc Rouge,Tilly Rose,Tolani and more…

WILSON & HUNTER (EMPORIUM) We've got the whole family covered. Cool cotton dresses and tops for mum, everything dad needs for a great weekend, Oobilicous fashion for the kids and footwear, swimwear and hats for the whole family. wilsonandhunter.com WINE GLASS GALLERY An extraordinary gift gallery stocking unique colourful wine glasses, original artworks, homewares, hand bags, jewellery, shot glasses, magnets, souvenirs & much more.

Dine

Savour

AND THE WINNER IS OSCARS Serving tasty HUNTER VALLEY CHOCOLATE COMPANY

gourmet picnics, fish, sandwiches, our famous gourmet pies, pizza and pasta, there is truly something for all tastes and pockets! Phone 4998-7355.

BLISS COFFEE ROASTERS CAFÉ Relax and enjoy a delicious light meal or sweet treat and a blissful cup of coffee. Phone 4998-6700.

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 Award winning contemporary Australian cuisine in a relaxed friendly environment. Open for lunch and dinner 6 days (closed Sundays). Phone 4998-7584.

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

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

Cookie tastings daily, delicious coffee and gluten free cookies.

HUNTER VALLEY LIQUEURS & BAERAMI OLIVES Extra virgin olive oils, infused olive oils,

vinegars and a large range of specialty liqueurs and an impressive array of bottles to customize your selection.

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

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 Tasting 15 boutique ZEN HAIR SKIN BODY A full Hairdressing Salon Hunter Valley wines daily. The largest range of local and Beauty Spa in one location, innovative & deluxe and imported beers in the Hunter Valley. treatments in an environmentally friendly setting, the salon can cater to any need. Phone 4998-6844.

Pamper 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.

Broke Road, Pokolbin Open 7 Days from 10AM