The No.1 magazine for visitors to Hunter Valley Wine Country | JULY-AUG 2020 | ISSUE #178
The Accidental
Vignerons
Calling Hunter Valley Home HELPING HAND FOR CEDAR CREEK WOMBATS
HOW SWEET IT IS! DESSERT WINES
UNLOCKING THE SHACKLES AT MAITLAND GAOL
“Quality Without Compromise”
5-Star Winery 2007 to 2020
“WE ARE FAMILY” NOW G! TASTIN ng Sparkli 19 0 2 é Ros
MISTLETOE is a small, family owned and run, vineyard and winery that was established by the current owners in 1989. Now in its 31st year, Mistletoe’s “no-compromise” approach to producing small quan��es of “true to origin” premium quality wine has seen it rewarded with many, many hundreds of awards and accolades. With three genera�ons of the founding family now ac�vely engaged in running the business on a day to day basis, Mistletoe is a truly unique family winery. With over 20 different wines, including Sparkling, Whites, Reds, Rosés, For�fed and Dessert styles on tas�ng, Mistletoe has one of the most comprehensive ranges of wines seen in the Hunter. COVID-19 PROTOCOLS So we can offer you a safe, informa�ve, and sa�sfying, wine-tas�ng experience, it is essen�al to make a tas�ng reserva�on by calling Mistletoe on 1800-055-080. • All wines are made in our onsite winery • Working vineyard on site • Mistletoe Wines are only available for purchase from the Winery Cellar Door • Knowledgeable and friendly staff to make you welcome • “Simply the Best” – No-obliga�on to purchase Wine Club. With Pokolbin Fine Art Gallery and Mistletoe Sculpture Garden located on site it makes Mistletoe a must see, a very special place to visit, a place that Hunter wine country visitors return to time and time again. To learn more about our area go to www.aroundhermitage.com.au We look forward to welcoming you! - The Mistletoe Family.
Winter Trading 10am–5pm 7 days | 771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin PH 1800 055 080 | E office@mistletoewines.com.au | www.mistletoewines.com.au
IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH...
A WORD FROM THE EDITORS
JULY–AUG
PUBLISHED BY: WCP Media ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: PH +61 2 4943 2888 www.yourhuntervalley.com.au enquiries@wcpmedia.com.au WCP MEDIA PO Box 165 Charlestown, NSW 2290 JULY–AUGUST 2020 Copyright © 2020 WCP Media Published monthly by WCP Media All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpt granted by written request only. While every attempt has been made, WCP Media cannot guarantee the legality, completeness or accuracy of the information presented and accepts no warranty or responsibility for such. SPECIAL OFFERS AVAILABLE From 16th July 2020 until the 15th August 2020 inclusive, or while stocks last.
They were the Hunter’s ‘accidental vignerons.’ A Sydney couple who made a spur-of-the-moment decision to buy a block of land in the Hunter Valley and produce wine. This months cover story is one we can certainly relate to, as we did precisely the same thing almost 15 years ago - packing up our family and moving to Wine Country to start a local business. Like the Degans, what began as a dream soon became a reality (and a load of hard work), but we’re so pleased to have escaped the city life, and you couldn’t find a more beautiful area to call home than the Hunter. Read more about the Degan’s story on page 10. Another family winery that has grown from the passion of its owners is Mistletoe Wines. Three generations of Ken and Gwen Sloans family are involved in the production of their award-winning wines, created with the guiding principle of quality over yield. Read more on page 14.
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14
When bushfires swept through the country earlier this year, carers and volunteers at local wildlife shelter Cedar Creek Wombat Rescue were run off their feet caring for injured wombats and other native animals. Now a donation from confectionery company Kinder will see the organisation build a brand new hospital facility. Find out more on page 20. As we go to print winter has well and truly arrived in the Hunter Valley. We can finally stoke the open fires and bunker in with our favourite red. Or possibly a sweet dessert treat – a luscious after-dinner drink that lingers on your palate more deliciously than any mousse, cake or tart. They're a sensational finale to any meal, and in our Dessert Wine focus on page 24, you’ll find some of the best Wine Country has to offer. Enjoy!
What’s in this
Issue?
Hot in the Hunter
4
The Crafty Pit
7
Degen Estate – The Accidental Vignerons 10 Quality Wines Without Compromise 14 Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant
16
Mount Pleasant – The Winery for Wine Lovers 19 Cedar Creek Bushfire Recovery Boosted by Kinder
GET MOBILE! View this month’s issue of Your Hunter Valley Magazine on your iPhone, iPad, android tablet or android phone. Visit www.yourhuntervalley.com.au/read-online
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Andanté Brasserie 22 How Sweet it is! Dessert Wines 24 Step Back in Time – Maitland Gaol 28 Winter Dining Guide Your Hunter Valley Map
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WHAT'S HOT IN THE
Hunter
F LY H I G H
Your Exclusive Winter Special
The chill is in the air, but it is the perfect time to experience some of the most breathtaking sunrises in the Hunter Valley from a bird’s eye view with Balloon Aloft! Purchase a Hunter Valley Flight Ticket for only $259pp and hop aboard one of the sunrise balloon flights over the beautiful Wine Country vineyards. Share the magic of a balloon flight with fellow balloonists, and then celebrate your exciting adventure with a delicious Champagne Breakfast at Peterson House Winery and Restaurant. Flight vouchers are valid for 12 months so in the unfortunate event that your flight is cancelled by unsuitable weather you have plenty of time to reschedule. This special offer is for a limited time only, so make sure you don't miss out! Book online now – www.balloonaloft.com/locations/hunter-valley/specials
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E X PE RI E N CE
The Winmark
Cellar Door is Here! Book in for an unforgettable tasting experience this Winter at the new Winmark Wines Cellar Door! Winmark Wines have converted the former Pooles Rock wine storage sheds into a new yet authentic Cellar Door, ensuring the history of the property is still cherished. The space connects the working vineyard with a beautifully designed place to enjoy and showcase the amazing Winmark Chardonnays. Time to mark Winmark Wines on your wine trail this weekend and enjoy a beautiful Hunter Valley sunset next to a cosy fire while sipping on premium wines! Cellar door opening hours Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10am–5pm or by appointment WHERE 229 Wollombi Road, Broke PH 9997 5373 www.winmarkwines.com.au/cellar-door
WE BELIEVE IN THE SIMPLE THINGS IN LIFE. THEY JUST NEED TO BE AMAZING.
TA ST E
Discover a Hidden Gem! Discover one of the Hunter Valley’s true hidden gems this Winter! Running Horse Wines is one of the most unique and enjoyable cellar door experiences in Wine Country and a MUST visit! Enjoy the company of David Fromberg – a former jockey turned winemaker, as he takes you on an adventurous ride through his unique selection of aged wines and some of the Hunter’s finest. The cellar door is something unique – constructed using six shipping containers that have been stacked purposely to take in the wonderful vineyard views. The uniqueness of the building and quality of the wines is not lost on review sites such as Trip Advisor which has given Running Horse Wines a 100% "excellent" review rating with comments that include "Best Wine in the Hunter Region". So, discover what everyone is talking about now! WHERE 1133 Milbrodale Road, Broke Fordwich OPEN Everyday from 10am to 6pm (Mon to Thurs – please call to confirm your arrival PH 0474 156 786 www.runninghorsewines.com
Now it's a Party! Small Mouth Vodka is one you won't forget anytime soon – especially with their eye-catching shimmering bottles! Available from The Garden Cellars in Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, this award-winning Organic Vodka range is locally-made and as smooth as they come. In the Shimmer range you'll find straight Vodka in blue and pink, and flavours caramel (yellow) and lime (green). Non-Shimmers include chocolate, apple, caramel and straight. Straight Gin and Butterfly Pea Gin is also available – so what are you waiting for? Head to The Garden Cellars to check it out!
SMART CASUAL DINING FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE ALSO WEDDINGS | EVENTS | PRIVATE FUNCTIONS LOCATED ON THE VINE AT COCKFIGHTERS GHOST VINEYARD 576 DE BEYERS ROAD, POKOLBIN Ph 4998 7776 | info@huntersquarter.com.au www.huntersquarter.com.au OPEN LUNCH THURS–SUN. DINNER THURS, FRI, SAT & MON Trading hours may have changed*
Introducing the Hunter Valley's
The Lad y in
Pin k
...
POKOLBIN ESTATE VIN EYARD
D E TA I L S WHERE The Garden Cellars, HVG Shopping Village OPEN 7 Days, 10am–5.30pm PH 4998 7466 www.gardencellars.com.au/collections/small-mouth-distillery
Tempranillo | Nebbiolo | Sangiovese | Nebbiolo Rosé Get your taste for adventure today at ...Pokolbin Estate. Winery – 2019 James Halliday Australian Wine Companion
Pokolbin Estate Vineyard 298 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin | Open 7 Days 9am - 5pm PH 4998 7524 | www.pokolbinestate.com.au
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Tim Faulkner (L) and James Hough (R)
AUSTRALIAN ALPACA BARN
NATURE'S EYE-WITNESS
FOR YOUR DIARY
at Morpeth Gallery
SPECIALISING IN QUALITY AUSTRALIAN ALPACA FASHION, HOMEWARES & ACCESSORIES
Open 7 Days 10am–5pm Peppers Creek on Broke Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, Pokolbin 155 Swan Street, Morpeth PH 4998 6669 • www.australianalpaca.com
From the paintbrush of Australia’s finest wildlife artist, James Hough comes an extraordinary exhibition at Morpeth Gallery this August – and it's sure to be one that shouldn’t be missed. Held over two weeks from Thurs 20–Sun 23 August and then again from Thurs 27–Sun 30 August (10am–5pm each day), this will be the first-ever solo exhibition of James Hough works. With the artist in residence during his eight-day exhibition, painting and chatting to visitors, this is your opportunity to see a master of art at work. "I have been at this art career now professionally for seventeen years, and in my sixtieth birth year, I have decided to celebrate what I like doing most with this my first solo exhibition. On show and for sale will be 55 paintings (large and small), ranging in price from $1,200 to $15,000," said James. James said that the body of work he had reserved for this exhibition was quite substantial and consisted of many paintings that he felt particularly proud of, including those produced when Aussie Ark Tasmanian Devil Sanctuary provided exclusive access to wildlife for referencing. Visit the exhibition in August for your chance to win a family pass (two adults + two children) to Devils Ark at Barrington Tops for a guided tour worth $500. For more information about the exhibition, visit www.facebook.com/pg/morpethgallery/events
Morpeth Antique Centre Discover 21 dealers
And The Servant’s Quarters Tearoom, all under one roof. All things Ancient, Antique, Vintage, Retro, Heirloom, Collectable.
Your always welcome at...
Oishii Japanese
Home Delivery Fri–Sun
Thai Restaurant
There is nothing quite like a fes�ve sushi pla�er to impress your guests. It tastes healthy, light and delicious. A favourite dining experience for locals and visitors alike. Always fresh... Always vibrant
J A P A N E S E T H A I C U I S I N E
Open 7 days for lunch and dinner. Takeaway available every day. Roche Estate, Hunter Valley Corner of Broke Rd & Mcdonald Rd’s Pokolbin, NSW 2320 PH 02 4998 7051 www.oishii.com.au
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OPEN 10am – 5pm, Thursday to Sunday & most Public Holidays
/OishiiPokolbin
175 Swan Street, Morpeth, Hunter Valley PH 02 4933 1407 E info@morpethgallery.com www.morpethantiquecentre.com
The Crafty Pit
MEET THE MAKER
WORDS Michelle Meehan
It might be the sight of colourful local art or unique handcrafted homewares that draws you into our markets, but it’s the smell of sumptuous slow-cooked and smoked delights that will have you searching {and lingering} for a meal.
After working up an appetite browsing the stalls, follow your nose to The Crafty Pit. Established in 2016 by Raymond Terrace couple Paul and Amanda Bull, the food van offers a range of barbecued meats cooked ‘low n slow with a twist’ and incorporated in a range of delicious dishes, from burgers and wraps to nachos and subs. “I bought my first Weber Kettle barbecue back in 2000 and started my love for charcoal cooking,” Paul said. “Nearly every weekend I would be cooking pork or chicken roast along with vegetables all on the Kettle. I love to cook for family and friends, and it was my family and friends that said to us we need to get out there, purchase a food van and let other people try our creations. “The Crafty Pit started in early 2016. The name came together based on trying to do things differently when it comes to pit cooking, giving people an exciting new take on the flavours they crave but may not be able to achieve at home.” Passionate about cooking meats that are tender and full of flavour, Paul said the secret lay in the spices they use and the patience required not to rush the process. “All my meats are cooked low and slow over ironbark wood,” he said. “The secret is the quality and cuts of meat used, good spice rubs to give flavour, temperature control and time to cook it – it can’t be rushed. “Working closely with the team at Terrace Meats Raymond Terrace we are able to source the best cuts for low and slow cooking. The barbecue sauce we use is freshly made every week and our spice rubs are also handmade using the freshest of ingredients.” The Crafty Pit has been making its way to the Handmade in the Hunter Markets since March 2018 and regulars will notice that while they have a core offering, Paul and Amanda love to change up their menu.
With so many tasty dishes on offer, Paul said it was tough to select just one favourite. “My favourite is the Pulled Beef Burger with smoked pulled beef, beetroot relish and vintage cheese – the combination of all three tastes is unexpected and delicious,” he said. “Amanda’s would be the Cheeseburger Spring Rolls. Freshly made for every event, these are definitely a crowd favourite. And you can’t go past our nachos using our pulled meats, fresh tomato salsa and all the trimmings – it’s a meal for two.” Check out The Crafty Pit at the Handmade in the Hunter Markets this month, which will be held at Kevin Sobels Wines from 9am to 3pm on July 18 + 25 and August 1, 8, 15, 22 + 29. Keep an eye on www.handmadehuntermarkets.com.au as additional market dates may be announced.
Daily Sunrise Balloon Flight Adventures over the Hunter Valley
$20 OFF* Prom o Take2Code 0
*Use the code to receive $20 off the current advertised rate when booking online
To book your flight contact 1300 723 279 www.balloonaloft.com 7 | JULY-AUG 2020 yhv
AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST DISPLAY GARDEN SIP
A New Look
BOOK NOW
for McGuigan’s!
A naturally beautiful experience in the heart of the Hunter Valley
Plan a day out sipping on award-winning wines and pop in to the newly refurbished McGuigan Wines Cellar Door! The team have been busy renovating and re-decorating the Cellar Door since they closed back in March, and they are excited to welcome you back into a fresh, contemporary space. Whether you are new to wine tasting or a seasoned professional, their friendly and knowledgeable team will be there to guide you through a tasting of their delicious range of wines. The Cellar Door is open from 10am to 5pm for wine tastings and wine purchases. We encourage you to book ahead for any tastings, as these will all be seated, with a maximum booking of 10. To book please call 4998 4111 or for more information visit www.mcguiganwines.com.au
The Gardens are a place for the appreciation of nature and peaceful reflection…but they are also a place for families and fun. The ten individually themed gardens showcase the artistry of gardens around the world and use both native and exotic varieties of plants. Enjoy a beautiful nature based experience.
COMING SOON
Hunter Valley
AT HILLTOP MEGA CREATURES
WHEN: 26 Sept - 11 Oct See all of your favourite dinosaurs, dragons and creepy crawlies! Plus, new for 2020 we will have a flying Pterosaur and animatronic Brachiosaurus.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SPECTAULAR
WHEN: Starting in November Immerse yourself in a magical world of light at our biggest and most interactive Christmas Lights ever!
For more details visit hvg.com.au 02 4998 4000 - Broke Rd Pokolbin *Guided garden tours are user pay. Gardens open from 9am – 5pm daily. Admission charges apply. Rides are only open during event periods.
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Wine Country’s Native Wildlife Sanctury Lovedale’s Hill Top Farm Stay Spectacular Valley Views • Riding over 300 acres Trail Rides for Adults and Children, for Beginners and Experienced Riders Personalised Rides • Marriage Proposals • Weddings on Horseback Pony Rides • Pony Parties • Family Rides • Sunset Rides Picnic Rides • BBQ • Tractor Hay Rides to Feed the Farm Animals Peddle Go Karts for Ages 5 – 99 Years Ask About our ATV Tours to the Top of the Range Accomodation and horse riding is available this School Holidays!
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 Country’s attractions, yet you feel a million miles away..
COMING UP
RED Winter Dinner
Saturday August 15th at The Deck Café, Lovedale Red Meat with Red Wine, what can be better in this cooler weather! Chef Matt Dillow from The Deck Café will be pairing delicious meats with some of Gartelmann Wines best Reds, and the menu looks simply divine! The night will include a Gartelmann Sparkling Red on arrival, followed by: Shared Entrees: • Bresaola with poached duck egg and truffle parmesan foam w/ 2016 Jesse Shiraz • Confit duck and wild mushroom risotto with crispy enoki w/ 2016 Philip Alexander • Prosciutto-wrapped pork tenderloin and spiced pear w/ 2017 Joey Merlot Mains (paired with 2016 Diedrich Shiraz and 2016 Georg Petit Verdot): • Bistecca steaks with sauce Vierge • Roasted Tuscan vegetables • Fire smoked eggplant with garlic chips Dessert: • Sticky date pudding with caramel sauce and vanilla bean ice cream w/ 2016 Jorg's VP WHEN Saturday 15th August, 6:30pm–10:30pm COST Gartelmann Members $85pp. Non-members $100pp BOOK PH 4930 7113 or E cellardoor@gartelmann.com.au MORE INFO www.gartelmann.com.au/events/red-wine-winter-dinner
Located at Gartelmann Wines, The Deck Café Lovedale is a stylish Restaurant style Cafe/Tapas Bar, complete with Vittoria Coffee.
OPEN 7 DAYS
Monday – Friday 8:30am till 2:30pm Saturday – Sunday 8am till 2:30pm Friday and Saturday Nights 5:30pm till 7:30pm
PH (02) 4930 9007
www.deckcafelovedale.com.au
Hunter Valley Resort Corner Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin (02) 49987777 sales@HunterResort.com.au www.HunterResort.com.au
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DEGEN
ESTATE
The Accidental Vignerons yhv 10 | JULY-AUG 2020
WORDS Michelle Meehan
They were the Hunter’s ‘accidental vignerons’, a Sydney couple who made a spur-of-the-moment decision to buy a block of land in Pokolbin and grow their own vines. But more than two decades later, the awardwinning single vineyard varieties on offer from Jean and Thomas Degen’s family-run vineyard and cellar door are firm favourites among wine connoisseurs, while their luxury, larger group accommodation attracts five-star reviews from guests blown away by what’s on offer across the picturesque 54-acre property.
Tell me a little about your background - how did you come to be in the Hunter? Jean: My husband Tom and I have two children, and for most of our lives, Sydney was home and working on our vineyard was our weekend passion. Tom is a Sydney boy and spent most of his career at sea in the merchant navy as an engineer. I’m originally from India and arrived in Australia in 1968. I worked for a global IT company, specialising in organisational behaviour. If you had asked me as a young girl in Bangalore if life would see me growing grapes and producing wine in Australia, I would have thought you were mad. For Tom and I, buying a property in Pokolbin with the
idea of developing a vineyard was rather a spur-of-the-moment decision back in 1997. But we’ve always loved the Hunter Valley, and I think our little block of land just spoke to us. We could see our future here, and we thought, ‘Why not? Let’s give this idea a go’. Our daughter Sasha followed us to the Hunter, and with her partner, John, runs Hunter Valley Stays, so the Hunter Valley is very much home now. How did you become involved in the wine industry? Jean: You might say we’re accidental vignerons. It was on a day trip to the Hunter that we chanced upon a block of land for sale in Pokolbin and became owners of a small 11ha, heavily-wooded bush block. And with that, our lives changed. We would work our jobs during the week, and then every Friday evening drive to Pokolbin and swap our city shoes for boots to work on our block over the weekend. That was our weekly routine for nearly 20 years. Somehow, while doing all that, we studied viticulture. In fact, in our course, we were the only two students who had land to put theory into practice. It took a few years to carefully plan and prepare the soil for planting vines, and in late 2001 we planted 10,000 Chardonnay, Shiraz and Semillon vines. We’re one of the smallest commercial vineyards in the Hunter Valley. I see a lot of our guests looking around at what we’ve created, perhaps trying to picture themselves doing something similar, and often they’ll ask, ‘How did we do it?’ I tell them, follow your passion, but setting up and running a vineyard is a lot of hard work. How did Degen Wines begin? Jean: We were so very proud of having planted our vines in late 2001. We had cleared the land, built a dam, installed trellises and irrigation and done everything to make sure our young vines would thrive. (Continued next page) F
Degen Estate is an awardwinning family-owned vineyard, cellar door and luxury accommodation. Enjoy 100% Hunter single-vineyard Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz in the ambience of the petite and welcoming cellar door.
VINEYARD • CELLAR DOOR • VINE STAY OPEN FRIDAY BY APPOINTMENT; SATURDAY & SUNDAY 10AM–5PM, BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL 365 DEASYS ROAD, POLKOBIN | PH 0437 661 993 | WWW.DEGENWINES.COM.AU @DEGENWINES
Degen Estate Vine Stay is perfect for large groups of up to 20 guests, for mid-week conferencing, weddings, milestone celebrations and yoga retreats.
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(Continued) Looking back, this was the easy part. For us, our paddock full of newlyplanted vines were like children. Each one needed to be nurtured, cared for and protected. You could say we didn’t rest until they were able to walk and reach the wire. But over time, we saw they were thriving, and our crazy idea of creating a vineyard was working. We picked our first crop of Chardonnay and Shiraz by hand in 2004. Our first winemaker was Max Patton at neighbouring Rothvale Wines. I can’t tell you how we felt tasting our own wine for the first time; the fruits of our labour. Incredible! That was an important milestone in the history of our little vineyard. In 2005 and 2006 our Chardonnays were made by Dan Dineen at Len Evans’ The Tower, and we knew what we were doing was working. In those early years, our plan was to build up our stock of premium aged wines and work closely with talented winemakers. You have to remember, for just the two of us, the three blocks of vines (13 acres) were what we could manage to do on our own on the weekend. We’d hire some wonderful local vineyard workers in winter to help us with pruning, but for the most part, what you see is what two people could manage in their spare time, and we’ve bootstrapped our business along the way as we grew. As we started to look ahead to the future, Tom and I began our plans to move from Sydney and make the vineyard our home. We built a small cellar door, as an annexe to our house, that overlooks the vineyard. I think that’s what people see when they visit Degen, that you’re visiting a family-run vineyard and you are guests in our home. With the considerable help of my daughter Sasha, and her partner John, we opened for cellar door tastings in 2013. Selling our own wine, from our own cellar door, was something that was only dreamt about when we started. From our original block of land, we expanded to purchase the neighbouring property in 2014 and to offer luxury vine stay accommodation in three houses for up to 20 people. Why do Degen Wines only produce single-vineyard wines, and what is your overall winemaking philosophy? Jean: I think you can summarise it neatly as ‘we’re good at being small, and we’ve grown at the pace that feels right to us.’ That’s been our approach from the beginning. We’re proud of what we produce and how we do it, and that’s reflected in each bottle of wine. I think there was no question that we’d focus on producing wine that is of our own vines and labour. Being small is our advantage. We’re nimble, and we can quickly adapt. Our family name ‘Degen’ means ‘fencing sword’ in German. Hence, the image of the fencer lunging forward with his sword aligns our family name with agility, skill and precision - qualities we embrace as a small producer. Most importantly, it’s the quality of our grapes that has impressed the winemakers we work with, and together our collaborations showcase exciting wines.
THE BEST PLACE IN THE HUNTER VALLEY
to find something special!
Experience a delightful day out at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village. Sample local wines, treat yourself to sweets galore or a relaxing meal in our beautiful garden surrounds. Enjoy your next day out with great food and bespoke shops, by visiting us in the heart of the Hunter Valley! huntervalleygardensshopping.com.au Broke Rd Pokolbin -
yhv 12 | JULY-AUG 2020
What do you think is the defining characteristic of your wines? Jean: From a winemaking point of view, our goal of producing high-quality wines, which started by working with Max Patton, Len Evans and Dan Dineen, has continued with the hugely talented Liz Jackson, Annabelle Holland, Rauri Donkin, Scott Stephens and Damien Stevens. Working with leading and up-and-coming winemakers who are looking to create different expression in wine from our fruit makes us attractive to wine lovers. From a viticulture point of view, Tom and I literally know every vine on our vineyard. That knowledge of our vines and experience of nurturing them through whatever nature has in store, through drought or weighing up the right time to harvest, translates into quality. I think our wines are defined by the quality of the grapes we harvest. Each of our varieties is hugely expressive, too, so it’s a constant learning experience. Our Semillon is so versatile. We produce a wildly popular dry, crisp, zesty Semillon, that begs for another glass, but we’ve also released low alcohol demi-sec style Semillons, which show such subtle sweet and floral tones that always wins hearts. Our Chardonnays established our reputation early on for aged single-vineyard wines, and have been awarded for their delicate balance of fruit and oak. Our range of Shiraz is rich in berries, full-bodied and quite ‘big reds’ as a result of drier growing conditions in recent years. Our varieties have also allowed us to experiment. Again, our Semillon shines in our sparkling white wine, and we are thrilled to be exploring new ground with a soon-to-be-released Degen Rosé and a Sparkling Shiraz.
The main house is positioned with views overlooking our vineyard and across to Bimbadgen, and to the west towards Brokenback Mountain. It is set amongst manicured lawns, a fruit orchard and native trees, and is great for entertaining. The two accompanying self-contained cottages each have two bedrooms. They feature luxury bedding, a modern bathroom, kitchen and open living space spilling out to a spacious verandah with private views of the vineyards. What makes staying at Degen Estate so special? Jean: We want our guests to have a luxurious stay. Whether it’s a weekend away with family and friends, a big celebration or a mid-week corporate retreat, there are inviting spaces across the property to explore, to enjoy and to feel at home. The beds are made for serious slumber and the lawns are perfect for greeting the day with yoga, while in the Summer House you can curl up on the comfy sofas with a book and a glass of wine and watch the sunset. And of course, there’s our award-winning swimming pool, ideal for a dip on hot days. Dining is a huge part of staying at Degen, and the perfect place to gather is around our huge dining tables inside, or on the terrace beside the pool while taking in the stunning views. Guests can be as formal or as casual as they like, there’s a spot for every mood. What can you expect from a cellar door experience at Degen Wines? Jean: At Degen, you’re visiting a family-run vineyard, and you’re treated as a guest in our home. So, there’s no standing around at the bar waiting to taste, and there is always one of the family to chat with. We like to get to know our cellar door guests. It’s an opportunity for us to introduce our wines, explain our approach to winemaking and tell guests about our story. I dare say, long after people have visited our cellar door, they’ll remember our story about the small family vineyard they visited in Pokolbin where they met the vignerons, tasted premium singlevineyard wines matched with a platter of local produce, and experienced something very special. Can you tell me a little about your luxury on-site accommodation? Jean: We began offering our vine stay accommodation in 2016. There is a large main house with a swimming pool and two separate cottages. In total the whole property can comfortably accommodate 20 people, making it perfect for hosting large groups of family and friends, corporate retreats, milestone celebrations or wedding accommodation.
It's been a tough first half in 2020 - what are you looking forward to for the rest of the year and beyond? Jean: Drought and bushfires were challenging at the beginning of the year, but we were pleased with the autumn rains, and our winter pruning is going well. Of course, Coronavirus brought our cellar door tasting and accommodation to a halt. However, our online wine sales grew, and we are hugely thankful to our loyal customers who supported us during the weeks of lockdown. Since regional travel restrictions were lifted, we’ve worked very hard to adapt to the new normal. It’s been wonderful to welcome guests back, and though these are still challenging times, we feel people are considerate of the extra steps we need to take to keep everyone COVIDsafe. We’re working to keep the experience of cellar door tasting or staying at Degen Estate special. That’s always been important, but it’s even more important now. We’re optimistic and if you can take away a positive, the challenges of this year have meant we’ve looked carefully at everything we do and are trying to find ways of doing what we do better. Looking ahead, we’re excited about the release of our 2019 wines and offering something completely new with our Rosé and Sparkling Shiraz. It’s our third decade in the Hunter Valley, and we’re as excited as the first day we began our journey. P
Aerohunter
FLIGHT TRAINING
13 | JULY-AUG 2020 yhv
Ken and Gwen Sloan
QUALITY Wines
Without Compromise WORDS QUENTIN VON ESSEN With an enviable list of awards, Mistletoe Winery is renowned for creating some of the region’s highest quality and most talked-about wines. Operating from its 5.5-hectare vineyard on Hermitage Road in Pokolbin, this James Halliday 5 star rated winery is an authentic, small family-owned winery with three generations of the Sloan family involved in the business. While the main focus is on Hunter Valley Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz, Mistletoe also creates wines from Merlot, Cabernet, White
Muscat, Verdelho, Viognier, Pinot Gris and Fiano – all produced from grapes grown in an environment where the focus is always on quality over yield. With winemaker Scott Stephens heading up the winery team, Mistletoe has, in a few short years, become one of the most respected and awarded boutique wineries in Australia and a genuine grape-growing and winemaking enterprise with all wine being made onsite in Mistletoe’s modern purpose-built winery. Owner of Mistletoe Winery, Ken Sloan believes that all good wine starts in the vineyard. For Ken, that is the key reason to keep investing in the vineyard. "We put back into the vineyard, and it shows. In the vineyard and winemaking side of the business, the grapes are grown in an environment that is as natural as possible. Our focus is always on quality over yield," explains Ken. "We have the firm mandate of ’Quality without Compromise’, and we not only believe in it, but we also act on it. We will walk away from bad years rather than make average wine by cutting corners or fudging it.” With this absolute attention to detail and uncompromising focus on quality, it comes as no surprise that Mistletoe has been rated as a 5-star winery by James Halliday every year from 2007 to 2020. This has earned Mistletoe the lofty reputation of residing in the top 8% of wineries in Australia on a quality basis and reinforcing Mistletoe’s reputation as one of the best and most consistent small wine producers in the Hunter Valley. The 2020 edition of the Australian Wine Companion has Mistletoe receiving ratings of between 94 and 97 points for seven currently available wines which Halliday has also highlighted as providing value for money. For many, Mistletoe Winery is a very unique and special place. And once you are there, you will see just why visitors to Wine Country return time and time again.F
SIMPLE FOOD DONE WELL
The Mill Restaurant Brokenback Bar
Casual Dining 7 days from 12pm Menu available all day
Accommodation Events Weddings Conferences Cooking Schools Food Wine Takeaway
4998 7288 www.estatetuscany.com.au
LUNCH Sat and Sun 12pm till 3pm DINNER Friday–Tuesday from 6pm
olives, olives, olives Come visit us for a range of Estate Grown Olives, Tapenade and local olive oils or a Cheese platter on the deck with a glass of wine
Booking is Appreciated! yhv 14 | JULY-AUG 2020
725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley www.tintilla.com.au #tintillaestate
Wines to Try The 2018 Reserve Chardonnay (Mistletoe’s flagship wine), is a crowd favourite. Originating from an old Pokolbin vineyard, the Reserve Chardonnay is only produced in the years when the grapes are considered to be absolutely perfect. This single-vineyard wine was hand-harvested, and whole bunch pressed directly into a combination of new one and two-year-old quality French oak puncheons where it remained until bottling in August 2018. The result is a very well balanced, full-flavoured palate with mineral, melon and stone fruit flavours with a hint of creamy oak—a wine of character and finesse.
For more information and Cellar Door opening times visit www.mistletoewines.com.au ■
For the ideal winter wine and the perfect companion to roasted beef, lamb or any game dishes, you cannot go past the Mistletoe Wine Grand Reserve Shiraz from the acclaimed 2017 Hunter Valley Vintage. This quintessential single vineyard Hunter Shiraz shows just how good Hunter Shiraz can be when all the pieces of the puzzle fall into place with its amazing mid-palate fruit and great length that combine to give this wine near perfect balance. Cellar to 2040, or drink it any time between now and then!
OPEN FOR TASTINGS AND SALES
7 Days, 10am - 5pm 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley PH (02) 4998 6737 • info@hunterdistillery.com.au www.hunterdistillery.com.au
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Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant As with many businesses in the Hunter Valley, Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant is a family business. Bo Boonsong opened the restaurant on her own in 2004 and was joined by her son Patrick each weekend for added support. But what started as a tourism restaurant limited to weekend trade has developed into a seven day a week gig for the pair.
The added weekly trade, which saw Patrick take over as the restaurant manager in 2012, has also cemented their status as the local’s favourite place to eat as well. Oishii is somewhat unique, as it is the only Asian restaurant in Pokolbin and the only Asian restaurant in a vineyard in Australia. Located within the Roche Estate complex on Broke Road in Pokolbin F
A PL ACE TO CONNECT Spanning 130 breathtaking acres, Winmark is not just a premium Chardonnay producer but a destination in Broke, Hunter Valley. In 2016 new owner Karin Adcock began re-establishing the former award-winning Pooles Rock vineyard and Winmark continues its remarkable revival with the launch of the Cellar
Door for their Chardonnay tastings. With a vineyard that holds a long tradition of producing beautiful wines, and grounds that are a wonderland of their own, Winmark is a place of remarkable beauty and unexpected discovery.
C E L L A R D O O R : 1 0A M – 5 P M F R I DAY – S U N DAY O R B Y A P P O I N T M E N T T: 0417 100 824 | E: info@winmarkwines.com.au | 229 Wollombi Road, Broke NSW 2330, Australia @winmarkwines | winmarkwines.com.au
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Picnic in the Vines
COMING
UP
Saturday September 12th, Saddler’s Creek, Pokolbin
and overlooking the architecturally designed amphitheatre and vines, Oishii provides a conveniently located, relaxed and affordable dining alternative with dishes designed to please every palate. The menu at Oishii is a combination of two Asian cultures - Thai and Japanese. It includes all the traditional Thai favourites such as Thai fish cakes, stir-fried vegetables with soft tofu, chicken cashew nuts, green curry chicken and other fragrant Thai curries, as well as a range of Japanese dishes that include assorted sushi and sashimi selections. “It’s a really big and varied menu – combining a variety of Asian cuisines into one menu can be tough,“ laughed Patrick when we asked him what was the most popular dish on the menu. “I would have to say the favourites are our Sushi and Sashimi, Prawn tempura and Gyoza dumplings. But our Beef Massaman, Teppanyaki and Chicken Green Curry are all really popular too.“
Spring is the beginning of the grape growing season when the vineyards burst back to life with fields of lush green vines, and sunny days grow longer and warmer. Sounds like the perfect time to enjoy a picnic, right? Join the crew at Saddler’s Creek Estate for a celebration day of great wine, food and music at their annual Picnic in the Vines! Set amongst the vineyard under the shady trees, guests can sample new release wines, sit back and enjoy a bottle of your favourite Saddler’s Creek wine, feast on a gourmet picnic banquet created by a local chef and enjoy toe-tapping tunes from international singer/ songwriter Anna Weatherup and band. Relax and unwind to live music, indulge in a gourmet picnic lunch and enjoy Saddler’s Creek award-winning wines at this family fun day out. Bring your picnic blankets, kids and friends – because good friends, good food and great wine are among life’s simple pleasures! WHEN Saturday 12th September, 11am–4pm BOOK PH 4991 1770 or E winery@saddlerscreek.com.au COST Tickets prices TBC soon, visit www.saddlerscreek.com.au
For more information about opening times visit www.oishii.com.au P
Re-Discover Mortels
Daily Factory Tours Mon–Fri 11am – No bookings required
FIND US
Located 2.5km from the end of the M1 1 Weakleys Drive, Thornton. Open 7 Days Visit www.mortels.com.au for more information
Home of the Big UGG Boots · Factory Tours · Shop · Café · Museum
EMMA’S COTTAGE VINEYARD · CELLAR DOOR & GALLERY: Friday 12pm–4pm, Saturday 10am–5pm & Sunday 10am–4pm. 438 Wilderness Road, Lovedale 2320 · Ph (02) 4998 7734 · www.emmascottage.com.au 17 | JULY-AUG 2020 yhv
Hunter Valley
Chocolate Company EST. 1999
Indulge at Bimbadgen Spend the day at Bimbadgen taking in the views of the hunter valley while indulging in amazing food and wine. Enjoy a wine tasting 10am–4pm. Bask in the sun drenched courtyard and enjoy woodfired pizza Friday to Sunday 11am–4pm, dine in or takeaway. Or even dine amongst the vines on a gourmet picnic hamper. Bookings essential.
Located in the heart of Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company has been a family owned and operated Hunter Valley gem for the last twenty years. Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience, with a tantalising range of premium hand-made chocolate and chocolate products plus more than 30 flavours of freshly made fudge!
Ph 4998 6999 Three Great Locations in Pokolbin:
790 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin. cellardoor@bimbadgen.com.au | Phone 4998 4600 www.bimbadgen.com.au
• Twenty-3-Twenty – 2320 Broke Road 7 Days, 9.30am–5pm • Peterson House – Broke Road 7 Days, 10am–4pm • Hunter Valley Gardens (Shop 5) – Broke Road Temporarily Closed
www.hvchocolate.com.au | admin@hvchocolate.com.au
Visit Saddler's Creek Wines and receive a complimentary souvenir wine glass and wine tasting.
15 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin | Open 7 days 10am-5pm | 02 4991 1770 Present this ad at Cellar Door to receive offer, valid until 15/08/20. One per person.
yhv 18 | JULY-AUG 2020
Mount Pleasant The Winery for Wine Lovers!
Best known for their classic regional Shiraz and Semillon, produced from some of the most historic vineyards in the Hunter, Mount Pleasant’s award-winning history dates to its early beginnings and a tradition of success which continues today. Led by Chief Winemaker, Adrian Sparks, the winemaking team consistently display a philosophy focused on sharing the best of the Hunter Valley told through every vineyard and every glass. This has resulted in countless awards and ongoing recognition for their efforts which include Adrian Sparks being awarded the prestigious title of Winemaker of the Year at the 2019 Hunter Valley Wine Industry Gala and the Mount Pleasant team walking away with seven trophies at the 2019 Hunter Valley Wine Show. The top performer was the 2018 Rosehill Shiraz, receiving five trophies including Best Red Wine in Show and Best Named Vineyard Wine of Show. And the awards just kept on flowing, with the 2018 Mountain D Shiraz then championing over all other wines to take home the title of overall Best Dry Red and be awarded the ultimate title of 2019 NSW Wine of the Year and claim the NSW Governor’s Trophy for Best in Show. This was the second year running that Mount Pleasant had been awarded the trophy for NSW Wine of the Year, following the success of Old Paddock and Old Hill Shiraz 2017 at the 2018 awards ceremony.
And if that is not convincing enough, following rave reviews for their 2018 Vintage reds, Mount Pleasant was named in the Top 3 "Wineries of Australia" by The Real Review. Up there with Mount Pleasant were Tyrells which came in second and Lakes Folly which came in 9th. All up 6 Hunter Valley wineries were named in the top 40. Whether you are just starting your journey of wine discovery or you are well versed in the wonders of wine, a trip to the Mount Pleasant Cellar Door is a must for all visitors to the Hunter Valley. Visit www.mountpleasantwines.com.au for more information and opening times.
THE BIR T HPL ACE O F AUST RAL IAN WINEMAKING
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VI SI T OUR C ELL AR DOOR Established in 1921 by legendary winemaker, Maurice O’Shea – Mount Pleasant is one of the great wine estates of Australia. Enjoy a true Hunter Valley wine tasting experience or simply take in the beautiful surrounds with a glass of wine.
OPEN WEEKENDS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY UNTIL RESTRICTIONS EASE 401 MARROWBONE ROAD POKOLBIN NSW 2320 | (02) 4998 7505 | MOUNTPLEASANTWINES.COM.AU
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Cedar Creek Bushfire Recovery Boosted by Kinder
Family confectionery brand, Kinder, has made a vital contribution to Cedar Creek Wombat Rescue that will support the rehabilitation of native animals in bushfireaffected areas of the Hunter Valley region. Kinder’s $30,000 donation will fund a new hospital facility equipped with specialised surgical equipment and three Intensive Care Units. These improvements mean Cedar Creek’s team can continue to provide a critical service for local animals, expanding its recovery program for injured or displaced wombats and increasing capacity for other vulnerable wildlife. “Kinder’s generous donation means so much to us here at Cedar Creek. Their support means we can start work on a new hospital facility that will allow us to save more wombats and injured animals,” said Roz Holme, founder of Cedar Creek Wombat Rescue.
HAND FORGED WROUGHT IRON • EXCLUSIVE DESIGNS UNCOMPROMISING QUALITY Since 1784
Specialising in artistic restoration and new works, Danish born René Rasmussen has the blacksmith’s skill to restore and recreate the style of yesteryear in many creative and varied forms. When you walk in Rene’s blacksmith shop, you will get the feeling you walk 100 years back in history. Fire in the coal forge, and tools that are 100, even 150 years old. If the tools could talk, you'd have part of the history here.
~ Former blacksmith and farrier for the Queen of Denmark ~ Former blacksmith and farrier for Carlsberg breweries ~ Traditional Danish Family Blacksmiths since 1784
619A Medowie Road, Medowie Ph 4981 7174 | M 0402 190 835 E cosyiron@optusnet.com.au www.cosyiron.com.au yhv 20 | JULY-AUG 2020
RUNNING HORSE WINES The most unique cellar door in Broke... A must visit! Specialising in Aged Wines
Dedicated to rescuing not just orphaned joey wombats but also sub-adults and adults that need medical care, whether it be from an accident, injury or the result of extreme weather events, Cedar Creek Wombat Rescue also cares for many other native animals with a focus on wildlife that needs more than routine care to get them to the point of release. Cedar Creek’s ‘wombat warriors’ worked tirelessly to keep fires at bay while providing care for injured and displaced wildlife during summer’s extreme weather. Six months on, local animals continue to return to the Rescue centre, relying on the team for food and shelter while the region’s bushland regenerates. The contribution is part of Kinder’s ongoing partnership with the Australian Wildlife Society which has delivered more than $100,000 in vital funds to support communities across Australia and New Zealand. In 2019 alone, Kinder helped Lismore’s Friends of the Koala, assisted Wombats SA’s work to protect the southern hairy-nosed wombat and funded conservation programs for New Zealand’s iconic kiwi, as well as raising much-needed awareness for endangered tree kangaroos in Queensland. “Kinder’s Natoons range aims to promote awareness and education for endangered animals through play. We are incredibly proud of our partnership with AWS which allows us to support community groups like Cedar Creek to protect Australia’s unique wildlife,” said Marta Bako, Head of Brand for Kinder. Through the brand’s unique approach to learning through play, the Kinder Surprise Natoons range aims to encourage families to discover new facts about native wildlife in different regions while supporting conservation efforts for endangered animals. The Natoons Australasia range features 26 animals including local wildlife such as wombats, cockatoos, frill neck lizards, kangaroos, koalas, numbats and tawny frogmouth owls. To celebrate the partnership with AWS, Kinder Surprise is giving away 1,500 limited edition Natoons Adventure boardgames. Until 31 July, parents can enter for a chance to win one of 50 Natoons games every day. Fun for everyone, the game lets families play and answer questions about animals from Australia and around the world, in a race to the finish line!
For more information about the vital work done by Cedar Creek Wombat Rescue in the Hunter Valley, visit www.cedarcreekwombatrescue.com. For more information on Kinder’s partnership with AWS and to enter the Natoons competition, visit www.kinder.com/au/en/natoons
Running Horse Wines cellar door provides a new look and experience to the Hunter wine region. We at Running Horse Wines have been ageing our entire range of wines and have amassed an impressive, unique and true age worthy wine list that will take you on an adventurous ride to an unprecedented tasting experience. The opportunity to taste and buy wines from 2005 to 2012, and also now just releasing the 2014 vintage, is very rare. Our classic aged range is comprising of the Hunter’s finest Shiraz, Semillon, Verdelho, Rosé and a Sparkling Rosé also being aged on lees for 6 years! Running Horse Wines is open every day from 10am to 6pm. From Monday to Thursday, please do not hesitate to call and confirm arrival as these hours can fluctuate.
1133 Milbrodale Road, Broke Fordwich PH David on 0474 156 786 www.runninghorsewines.com.au 21 | JULY-AUG 2020 yhv
ANDANTÉ BRASSERIE
ENJOY AN inviting and relaxed atmosphere Andanté Brasserie is a locally owned café and restaurant located in the heart of the Hunter Valley – a great spot for a quick catch up or long lunch with friends and family.
Open 7 DAYS For Breakfast and Lunch Ph 4998 7932 Leisure Inn, 485 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin www.andantebrasserie.com.au
VINE YA R D
Bo ut i q u e H unt e r W i ne s
A Trio of Whites
CELEBRATE! This complex late disgorged Blanc de Blancs spent almost 5 years on lees. The result is a fine bead and creamy textured palate with classic toasty characteristics. Taste it today! 2 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin Cellar Door open for tastings Sat & Sun, 10am 4pm www.kelmanvineyard.com.au Small groups welcome - call 02 4991 5456
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Andanté Brasserie WORDS Di von Essen
When the doors opened on Andante Brasserie in June 2019, it was not just the glorious views that welcomed visitors; it was also the fresh new menu utilising local produce at prices set to allow everyone visiting the Hunter Valley a unique ‘taste of Wine Country.’ Located at Leisure Inn Pokolbin Hill, Andante Brasserie is located quite literally at the heart of the Hunter Valley (or just off the giant roundabout if you are a little less romantic!) With picturesque views across a small lake and into surrounding vineyards, the local haunt has captured a family-friendly ambience with a playground to keep the kids entertained. Andante offers modern cuisine, with a focus on local and sustainable produce. From local wines to hand-made cakes, delicious a la carte breakfasts and daily lunches to tantalising dinners every weekend (Fridays to Sundays from 6pm) – Andante Brasserie has pretty much every taste catered for. Owner, Ross Crump is a local businessman who also operates other local businesses including Parched Crow Wines and Tarin Grove Beef (both of which have a place on the menu at the Brasserie), as well as Pokolbin Farmstay Accommodation and local landmark – PK's Olde General Store. “We offer local wines, and our menu is reasonably priced so everyone can enjoy a taste of what the valley has to offer. We have a fantastic team that provide personalised customer service, and we pride ourself on our delicious menu, which can all be enjoyed while overlooking the stunning view,” says Ross. “Our Chef, Aaron Pearce, prides himself on utilising local produce to create a menu that is jam-packed full of fresh, quality food. Our most popular dishes are our House-Made Corn-Fritters served with either salmon or bacon and our hearty Big Breakfast.” The inviting and relaxed atmosphere of Andante Brasserie makes it an excellent place for a quick catchup, long lunch with friends or family or a decadent 3-course dinner. Relax in the outdoor area with delicious food and a nice cold beer, glass of wine or cocktail – who could ask for more! For more information and current opening times, visit www.andantebrasserie.com.au
Bonus for Local Book Lovers! Cessnock City Library has ramped up local access to online content in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak to help locals stay entertained through self-isolation and social distancing measures. With the launch of an innovative new platform indyreads, Wine Country locals can now access over 11,000 new eBooks and audiobooks from home, for free. Developed by the State Library of NSW, indyreads gives Cessnock City Library members 24/7 access to a range of eBooks, including fiction titles by well-known and popular authors, poetry collections, cookbooks, educational books, local studies resources and much more. Cessnock City Library Services
“Largest beer range
Massive Wine Sale at The Garden Cellars $50 cases and $144 cases
Coordinator, Rose-marie Walters said indyreads also includes books from independent Australian and international publishers as well as the best examples of selfpublishing, offering communities a greater diversity of stories. “With indyreads, library members can get a lot more variety with something for every reader – from high-quality self-published works by local writers to international awardwinning authors, modern classics, and books in a range of other languages.” “indyreads is a great addition to our library collection. Our members will particularly enjoy being able to access such a wealth of fiction by Australian authors,” added Rose-marie. To access the indyreads collection, visit www.libraries.cessnock.nsw.gov.au
in the valley!”
Come in and visit the ‘Tunnel of Beer’. Stocked to the brim with delicious brews from around the world.
alley Hunter V nter d Hu Wine an Vodka Distillery s tasting daily! available
THE GARDEN
CELLARS
You will find us at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village Broke Road, Pokolbin OPEN 7 DAYS 10am - 5.30pm | PH 4998 7466 www.gardencellars.com.au
Nadine and Jean welcome you to Thélème Wines at Black Creek Farm. A boutique Wine Producer in the Hunter Valley situated on a gentle easterly facing slope. We invite you to enjoy our premium CabernetMerlot and Shiraz vintages, our exceptional 2020 Rosé and our stunning white wines including Semillon and Chardonnay. ..... Our Cellar door is open by appointment, or Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm.
THÉLÈME WINES
H U N T E R VA L L E Y
803 Old North Road, Rothbury • Ph 0410 491 572 Order online at www.Blackcreekfarm.com.au/shop
#Thelemewines 23 | JULY-AUG 2020 yhv
How
Sweet it is! Dessert Wines D
Dessert wines are sweet, luscious after-dinner drinks that linger on your palate more deliciously than any mousse, cake or tart. Affectionately known as ‘stickies,’ these sweet wines are a sensational accompaniment to fruit desserts and are perfect with blue or soft cheeses. Alternatively, they can stand alone as a replacement for dessert at the end of a meal.
Fermented in the same manner as conventional white wines, dessert wines tend to be intensely flavoured, deeply gold in colour with bouquets of dried apricots, a rich sweet flavour and a sharp acid finish. The types of desserts that a dessert wine can go with are limitless, but the general rule is for the dessert wine to be sweeter than the dessert to avoid having the food overpower the wine. Here's a quick overview of three of our favourite fortified and dessert wine styles.
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Lightly Sweet Dessert Wine
Lightly sweet dessert wines are the ultimate dessert wine for fruit-based and vanilla-driven desserts. These wines are generally refreshingly sweet and perfect for a hot day. When it comes to food, these wines are well matched to spicy foods like Indian and Asian cuisine. Some of the lightly sweet wines on the market today include Gewürztraminer, Riesling and Chenin Blanc. These wines are usually best served cold and should be enjoyed at their freshest, although some, such as Riesling, age well.
Richly Sweet Dessert Wine
Richly sweet wines are made with the highest quality grapes in an unfortified style and can age 50 years or more. This is because their sweetness and acidity preserve their fresh flavour. There are several ways to produce richly sweet dessert wines: Late Harvest: Late harvest means precisely that. Often described as ‘liquid sunshine’ these wines are traditionally made from grapes that are left on the vines until the end of the harvest so that they ripen to their fullest before naturally dehydrating. The result is a wine that has a higher residual sugar (or alcohol, depending on how long it is left to ferment). Being late harvest generally indicated a sweeter dessert wine such as late harvest Riesling, Pinot Gris or Semillon. Semillon is the favourite grape used in dessert wines because its thinner skin allows for a more effective state of botrytis and therefore sweeter juice. When it comes to food, Foie gras, blue cheese and light chocolate desserts are excellent pairings for a late harvest Semillon.
Noble Rot: While it may not sound very appealing, some of the most sought after dessert wines in the world are made from grapes that are, well… rotten. The fruit is covered in a fungus called botrytis cinerea – also known as ‘noble rot,’ which causes it to shrivel up and dehydrate, leaving behind extra sweet pulp - which the winemakers then press for juice. While it sounds and looks disgusting, it adds a unique and highly sought after flavour of ginger and honey to the wine. Some of the world’s most exceptional sweet wines such as Sauternes from Bordeaux are made from Noble Rot. Readers may also be familiar with De Bortoli Noble One Botrytis Semillon - arguably Australia’s most famous dessert wine. Wines made from botrytised grapes are generally medium-sweet to very sweet, typically displaying aromas and flavours of tropical, stone and soft citrus fruits, honey, marzipan and liquorice. These wines are not only beautiful with desserts such as a fruit tart, but are also perfect when accompanied by sharp washed-rind cheese and blues such as Roquefort. Ice Wine (Eiswein): Freezing grapes is another way to concentrate sugars to make sweet wine. When made in the traditional way, ice wine, or ‘eiswein’ as it is often called in Germany and Austria, is left on the vine long after the typical harvest is finished until temperatures drop enough for the grapes to freeze. Ice wines are commonly produced in cold regions like Canada, Germany and Switzerland.
Fortified Wines
Fortified dessert wines such as Sherry, Port, and Madeira are made by adding alcohol (brandy spirits) during fermentation. This kills the yeasts that convert sugar to alcohol, leaving the wine very sweet and increasing the alcohol level to between 15 and 20%. The types of spirit used and the point in the process that the spirit is added has an enormous impact on the style of wine being made. Generally, the earlier the spirit is added, the sweeter the resulting wines.
After fortification, the wine is left to mature in oak barrels, sometimes for decades, developing into complex, aromatic wines, with immense depth and concentration of flavour and colour. Muscat grapes are used to make a variety of sweet dessert wines in various parts of the world. Typically, these are fortified wines, although some sweet late harvest and noble rot wines are also made from Muscat grapes. Liqueur Muscat is a fortified wine from the Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains, which is a white wine grape and considered one of the oldest grape varieties in existence (also known as Brown Muscat grapes). The wine is sweet, dark and highly alcoholic with similarities to the Portuguese fortified wine Madeira. Liqueur Muscat essentially starts out as a late harvest wine, with the grapes left on the vine longer than usual - until they are practically raisins and very sweet. ■
Uniquely Ivanhoe Ivanhoe Wines offers seated wine masterclass tastings with spectacular views, great wines with a friendly knowledgeable team. When you visit our cellar door, you will not only enjoy a wine tasting, but a complete wine experience. Join us to learn about the Estate, vineyard and winemaking process. We’ll help you find wines that you love.
Open 7 Days – Bookings Essential. 525 Marrowbone Rd, Pokolbin NSW
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02 4998 7325
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www.ivanhoewines.com.au 25 | JULY-AUG 2020 yhv
Top DESSERT PICKS McGUIGAN WINES 2019 Personal Reserve
Late Picked Traminer – $40
This late harvest Gwürztraminer was produced using only the highest quality Adelaide Hills fruit, having developed an extraordinary depth of flavour due to the extreme 2017 growing season. TASTING This wine has everything you could possible want in the dessert style, being fragrant and complex. This luscious wine is bursting with fresh pineapple and lychee flavours with a soft floral finish. FOOD MATCH Strawberries and cream, or a decadent cheese and antipasto platter. CELLARING Up to 10 years. TEMPUS TWO
2015 Pewter Boytrytis Semillon – $30 Pewter is Tempus Two's regal wine series, delivering a premium experience that embodies all Tempus Two has to offer. TASTING A powerful and rich botrytis wine showing the classical hallmarks. Lifted citrus fruit flavours balanced with restrained acidity, the wine finishes with elegance and finesse. FOOD MATCH Pair this wine with a variety of desserts including lemon tart or soft, blue cheese. CELLARING 20+ years.
For an altogether sweet experience, a visit to Sabor Dessert Bar is a MUST! 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. Pair something scrumptious with a delicious Hunter Valley wine... It’s a unique Hunter Valley experience that you can only enjoy at Sabor Dessert Bar. 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 with our amazing view of the vines and mountain ranges or to take away and savour in your home or hotel.
Enjoy a world of desserts at Sabor Dessert Bar in Pokolbin!
2342 Broke Rd, Pokolbin
Open Thurs & Fri 10am - 4.30pm, Sat 10am - 5.30pm, Sun & Mon 10am - 4.30pm
PH 1300 958 939 • www.sabordessertbar.com.au yhv 26 | JULY-AUG 2020
CONSTABLE ESTATE
Muscat – $40
This breathtaking wine is blend of 10 and 15 year old Muscat. It is rich and intense. Perfect for sipping by the fire with friends. TASTING This mature Muscat has a bouquet of raisins and spices, luscious on the palate with toffee characters. FOOD MATCH Premium dark chocolate. CELLARING This wine has already been matured in barrels and no further aging in the bottle is required.
PETERSON HOUSE
Fortified Tawny – $33
An exciting interpretation of fortified wine. Light caramel and coffee, with hints of vibrant amber. The aromas are of spicy fruit cake and raisins. The bubbles lift these notes and are precipitous of the flavours to come. TASTING The palate is rich, sophisticated and has depth from the aged Tawny components. The mid palate displays a blend of ripe spicy fruit, toffee and caramel. As it lingers subtle vanillin oak and nutty aged walnuts add to the overall complexity. FOOD MATCH Enjoy with chocolate mud cake or dark chocolate tart. CELLARING Serve very cold – move from the fridge into the freezer an hour prior to serving.
EMMA'S COTTAGE
2019 Pheobe – $30
Though not strictly a dessert wine, Phoebe is a little sweet with a lovely light blush – a bit like her namesake, a pale strawberry blond, a sweet young lady who has an answer for everything. TASTING Made with Semillon and Verdelho with just a hint of Shiraz there is a taste of sweet guava, ripe lime and a touch of delicious apple. FOOD MATCH Perfect with a seafood laksa or Sri Lankan chicken curry or with a sweet date and walnut log. CELLARING Enjoy now.
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.constableestate.com.au 27 | JULY-AUG 2020 yhv
NSW Corrective Services Collection c1895 – ‘A Wing & Yard’
STEP BACK IN TIME
Maitland
Gaol WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN
For almost 150 years it kept some of Australia’s most infamous criminals contained behind its towering sandstone walls and razor wire fencing. These days, however, Maitland Gaol welcomes a far more law-abiding crowd through its foreboding iron gates.
Thousands of visitors from all over the world flock to the commanding convict-built structure every year to explore the fascinating, frightening and sometimes far-fetched sounding stories of what life was like behind its grim stone walls. The award-winning tourist attraction is one of around a dozen historic gaols and similar sites that are now open to the public across Australia, providing an insight into the country’s prison system, as well as many other aspects of early life in the colony. Positioned prominently on top of a hill in East Maitland, Maitland Gaol was built in the mid-1800s using sandstone sourced from the local area including Morpeth and Farley. The foundation stone was laid in 1844, with the first prisoners incarcerated in the multi-building complex in December 1848. The Gaol was built over several stages between 1844 and 1900, with much of the masonry work carried out by prisoners. While some additions and alterations were undertaken in the late 1960s and ’70s, the closure of the Gaol was announced in 1996 as part of an upgrade to the state’s prison system. It was determined that security at the site no longer met community expectations, while the overall conditions were considered unsuitable and the cost of operating the antiquated facility was excessive. Maitland Gaol closed as a maximum-security prison on January 29, 1998, with the honour of being Australia’s oldest structure in continuous
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use as a gaol. Thirteen months later Maitland City Council was awarded a 50-year lease for the site, with plans to adaptively reuse the Gaol as a museum. The Gaol was also added to the State Heritage Register in 1999. Over the years since being reopened as a tourist attraction, several guided tours have been developed at the Gaol, with themes covering everything from crimes of passion to daring escapes. There is undoubtedly plenty of source material to draw from for the tours, with the Gaol housing some of the country’s most notorious criminals at one time or another. Previous ‘guests’ included Sydney underworld figure Arthur 'Neddy' Smith, John Travis and the Murphy Brothers, who were convicted of the murder of 26-year-old nurse Anita Cobby, bank robber Darcy Dugan and backpacker serial killer Ivan Milat. A total of 16 executions (carried out as public hangings until 1861) were enacted on the Maitland Gaol site between 1843 and 1897, including 13 for murder and three for rape, while the last corporal punishment in NSW – the whipping of an inmate – occurred at Maitland in 1905. The Gaol was also the site of numerous daring escapes, with almost 40 attempts made throughout its history, although most of them failed. The last recorded escape plot, on May 17, 1997, was thwarted before it even began after drug baron George Savvas, Milat and two other prisoners planned to overpower the prison officer in A Wing, steal his keys and use them to gain access to the general yard. From here they would have escaped over the wall to a car waiting for them on the other side. However, increased security regulations meant the plot was uncovered before it could be put into action. Not surprisingly, the ex-warder and ex-inmate guided tours are among the Gaols’ most popular offerings, providing a unique perspective into life behind bars with stories that are not for the faint-hearted. Maitland Gaol is also said to be the most haunted site in the Hunter, making its regular ghost tours another popular activity for those curious about the paranormal. For more information about its history and the wide variety of activities now on offer at the site, visit www.maitlandgaol.com.au
Winter Dining Guide
ANDANTE BRASSERIE
THE CELLAR RESTAURANT
We are a locally owned cafe and restaurant located in the heart of the Hunter Valley. The inviting and relaxed atmosphere makes it a great place for a quick catch up, long lunch with friends or family. Relax in our outdoor area with delicious food and a nice cold beer, glass of wine or cocktail.
The Cellar Restaurant delivers modern contemporary Australian cuisine, utilising local and seasonal quality ingredients. Dine in our indoor garden setting or outside in the courtyard. Try our NEW al a carte and tasting menu! Share plates are also available for lunch Monday to Sunday. Bookings recommended.
Leisure Inn, 485 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin, MAP REF K10 PH 4998 7932 | www.andantebrasserie.com.au OPEN 7 Days for Breakfast and Lunch
HVG Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin, MAP REF K10 | PH 4998 7584 admin@the-cellar-restaurant.com.au | OPEN Lunch Mon– Sat; Dinner Mon–Sat | www.the-cellar-restaurant.com.au
BLAXLAND INN
OISHII JAPANESE THAI RESTAURANT
Specialising in friendly country hospitality, you’ll love your time at Blaxland Inn. Our menu is full of hearty meals from succulent steaks, house-made pies, and our signature garlic prawns. When reserving your table, ask about our courtesy vehicle. Suitable for up to 11 guests, conditions apply. Bookings are essential.
The name says it all... Delicious. Open daily, Oishii has become one of the most popular eateries in the epicentre of Hunter Valley wineries and concerts. The market fresh seafood Sushi and Sashimi followed by a rich Massaman Beef Curry and finished with fried ice cream – a house speciality, begs a return visit to taste their unique Prawn Tempura, Panang Duck Curry and Green Curry Chicken. Roche Estate, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rd’s Pokolbin, MAP REF L11 OPEN 7 Days Lunch, Dinner + T/A; Home Delivery Fri–Sun 4998 7051 | www.oishii.com.au
2198 Broke Road, Pokolbin, MAP REF K12 | PH 4998 7550 info@blaxlandinn.com.au | www.blaxlandinn.com.au OPEN 7 days for Lunch & Dinner
THE DECK CAFÉ
THE BRUNCH SOCIETY
The Deck Café Lovedale is a stylish Restaurant Style Café/Tapas Bar, located at Gartelmann Wines. We provide a diverse and delightful style Breakfast menu daily, followed by an inspiring Tapas Style menu for Lunch and Dinner on Friday and Saturday. The menu is complimented with Gartelmann Wines and Vittoria coffee.
Tatler Wines presents The Brunch Society! Our chef Katy is back – a treat awaits you. A weekend dining adventure with dishes crossing borders and sometimes traditional food lines. A vibrant, seasonal, ever changing menu, designed to entice you… to try everything!
701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale, MAP REF G18 | PH 4930 9007 www.deckcafelovedale.com.au | OPEN Mon to Fri 8.30am– 2.30pm; Sat & Sun 8am–2.30pm; Dinner Fri & Sat 5.30pm–7.30pm bookings@deckcafelovedale.com.au
477 Lovedale Road, Lovedale, MAP REF G16 PH Katy to book on 0434 436 818 | www.tatlerwines.com.au OPEN Sat & Sun 8am–4pm
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Roche Estate Oishii Japanese-Thai Restaurant Tempus Two
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Tatler Wines
The Brunch Society
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The new Winmark Wines Cellar Door is open! (X5)
Mount Pleasant Wines
Ivanhoe Wines
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