Hot in the Hunter

A Celebration of Seasonality: The Epic Annual Lunch at Hungerford Hill

Hungerford Hill’s Epic Annual Lunches return this June on the 14th and 21st, offering an unforgettable fusion of fine wine, food, and entertainment. Held in partnership with the acclaimed two-hatted Muse Restaurant, the event features a seasonal five-course menu showcasing the best of local produce, crafted with technique, restraint, and respect. Each dish is expertly paired with a selection of premium aged and new release Hungerford Hill wines. With world-class entertainment included, this celebrated event is a sell-out every year—early booking is essential! Set against the backdrop of Hungerford Hill’s award-winning cellar door and renowned hospitality, the experience is a true celebration of Hunter Valley excellence. Don’t miss this opportunity to indulge in a day of culinary sophistication and wine mastery. To learn more or secure your seat, visit www.hungerfordhill.com.au.

Celebrating the Flavours of Autumn with Hunters Quarter

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisper, Hunters Quarter invites you to experience the essence of autumn with their eagerly anticipated new menu selections, expertly crafted to capture the essence of the season's bounty. Renowned for its commitment to locally sourced ingredients and innovative culinary techniques, Hunters Quarter takes diners on a journey through the rich flavours of the season. Drawing inspiration from the region's abundant harvest, the new menu showcases a symphony of seasonal ingredients crafted into exquisite dishes by Chef Brian Duncan and his talented team. Visitors can choose to indulge in the à la carte menu, a personalised selection of entrée, main, and dessert. Alternatively, the Degustation Menu ($150pp) promises to balance your tastebuds with a selection of the five most popular dishes from the main menu. For more information or to book online, visit www.huntersquarter.com.

Distinctive Wines in Timeless Settings at Savannah Estate

Take a detour on your wine tasting road trip and head to Savannah Estate Wines, with two tasting centres located at Mount View and Broke Road, Pokolbin. Known for their dedication to quality, the winemaker hand-selects premium fruit from Australia’s top regions to craft a diverse range of wines—sparkling, red, white, fortified, and dessert varieties to suit every palate. The rustic Mount View Cellar Door is full of charm, inviting you to stay awhile rather than rush through a tasting. Enjoy your favourite wine with a curated charcuterie board, either under the trees or out on the peaceful back terrace. For those exploring the central Pokolbin area, Savannah Estate also operates a second cellar door at 2198 Broke Road, Pokolbin, offering the same warm hospitality and exceptional wines. Both locations are open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with bookings recommended, especially for larger groups. To plan your visit or learn more about upcoming events, visit www.savannahestate.com.au.

Eat, Dine, Stay & Wed at Wandin Estate

Nestled in Lovedale, Wandin Valley Estate harmoniously integrates its vineyard, cellar door, restaurant, and vineyard villas within the natural landscape. The estate's commitment to sustainability is evident in its meticulous care of the land and the seamless blend of rustic charm with modern amenities. Guests can indulge in seasonal dishes, crafted from locally sourced produce at the Wandin Kitchen, unwind in villas adorned with the finest linens, and savour wines that reflect the region's rich terroir. Every detail, from the thoughtfully designed accommodation to the curated wine experience, is tailored to provide a luxurious yet authentic Hunter Valley retreat. Ideal for events, Wandin Estate also hosts weddings, corporate gatherings, and even cricket games at the Cricketer’s Pavilion. So, whether strolling through the vineyards or relaxing by the fireplace, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the estate's dedication to quality heartfelt hospitality. For more information, visit www.wandin.com.au.

Indulge in the Sweet Side of Wine Country

Discover the rich flavours of Hunter Valley Chocolate, cherished for its premium quality and exquisite taste. With two outlets in Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company is a must-visit destination for chocolate lovers. If you’re visiting, why not treat yourself to an exclusive chocolate tasting experience for just $3.50, featuring a delicious sample of bark, buttons, coffee beans, premium cabinet chocolates, and creamy fudge. Sit and watch as skilled artisans craft mouthwatering chocolates and fudge using traditional recipes and modern flair! It’s a perfect way to explore local craftsmanship and enjoy a tasty adventure. You'll find an extensive selection of handmade chocolates and fudge at Peterson House on Broke Rd, complemented by a cozy café, and a bustling factory at Twenty-3-Twenty (also on Broke Rd). For further details or to explore the delightful range online, visit www.hvchocolate.com.au.

Meet the Makers, Taste the Valley at Handmade in the Hunter Markets

Located at Sobels Winery in Pokolbin, Handmade in the Hunter Markets are unlike any other market. Instead, it is a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and community. Many plan their Hunter Valley visits to align with the market’s schedule, knowing they’ll find something new each time — a handmade treasure, a story shared, a glass of local wine in hand. You’ll chat with the ceramicist whose hands shaped every curve of a teacup, taste honey drizzled by the beekeeper herself, and admire paintings still drying in the morning sun, fresh from the easel. The markets are held every Saturday and some Sundays, from 9 AM-2 PM. This June long weekend, the markets will be open Saturday and Sunday, June 7th and 8th — a perfect chance to explore the region through the eyes and hands of its artisans. Whether you're seeking a keepsake, a gift, or simply an authentic slice of Hunter Valley life, Handmade in the Hunter invites you to discover the magic of handmade. For more information, visit www.handmadehuntermarkets.com.au.