Hunter Valley Magazine Issue 8, 2017 by Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association

MAGAZINE ISSUE

#08

Which cellar doors should we visit for delicious It alian wines?*

REGIONAL GUIDE & MAP

* It’s time t o let our tastebuds r oam

SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO • 1 TRUE BREW LOCAL WITH TASTY CRAFT BEER • 4 OLIVE PRODUCERS WITH FREE TASTINGS • 6 CHEFS REVEAL THEIR GREAT CLASSICS • 10 TOP ATTRACTIONS FOR KIDS

First Creek chief winemaker Liz Silkman was crowned Hunter Valley Winemaker of the Year in 2011 and 2016. First Creek Wines has collected an impressive 14 Trophies and 29 Gold Medals on the national wine show circuit since 2015. Our highly acclaimed wines include Hunter Valley Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz. We also source a selection of alternative varieties such as Vermentino, Pinot Gris and Tempranillo from various emerging New South Wales wine regions. First Creek Wines Cellar Door is conveniently located right in the heart of Hunter Valley Wine Country. The Silkman Family invite you to join the First Creek team for daily sales and tastings.

James Halliday Australian Wine Companion

HHHHH 5-star Winery 2011 - 2017 600 McDonalds Road Pokolbin 02 4998 2992 www.firstcreekwines.com.au

H U N T E R VA L L E Y

Spectacular views and stunning hand crafted wines from prized vineyard sites.

O P E N DA ILY 10AM TO 5PM HHHHH James Halliday Australian Wine Companion

2342 BROKE ROA D P OKOL B IN NS W 2320 P 02 4998 6722 E cellardoor @ l am b loc h . c om ww w. la m b loc h . c o m

PETERSON HOUSE PREMIUM SPARKLING WINES

Cellar Door Open 7 days 9am-5pm

Restaurant CuvÃ©e Breakfast 8.30am-11am Lunch 12pm-3pm

Oyster Bar Open 10am on weekends (Live music Sundays 11am-3pm)

Corner Broke Road & Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin NSW 2320 P 02 4998 7881 E bubbles@petersonhouse.com.au www.petersonhouse.com.au

www.facebook.com/PetersonHouseltd

DREAMERS WELCOME

E S T A B L I S H E D

1 8 9 5

CONTENTS 28

34 COME VISIT The Hunter Valley has a remarkable blend of unique experiences. Book your accommodation and tours online winecountry.com.au

NEWS 13 ON THE GRAPEVINE Social media highlights

14 SNIPPETS

News, views and reviews

WINE 20 VIVA ITALIA!

Get a taste of Italian wines in the Hunter Valley

28 TIP-TOP TALENT

Meet some of the talented women in Wine Country

DINE 34 GREAT CLASSICS

huntervalleywc

Chefs reveal the classic dishes diners love

Huntervalleywc

EXPLORE 49 MADE IN THE HUNTER

Spotlight on a new microbrewery

51 COMING UP ROSES

Discover how a local who came to buy some wine bought an entire cellar door!

55 I DID IT MY WAY

Two brides tie the knot in the serene setting of the Hunter Valley

61 PLAY FEST

10 top places to take the kids

69 WHAT’S ON

A round-up of must-visit events in the region

97 RESTAURANTS & CAFES

Get a taste for the Hunter Valley way of life

104 GOURMET

Enjoy local produce & brews

107 TOURS

Discover the secrets of the Hunter Valley

114 EXPERIENCES

Enjoy a range of activities and attractions

121 ACCOMMODATION Find your ideal Hunter Valley home

133 WEDDINGS

Wedding venues and services

136 SERVICES

DISCOVER

Essentials to cover all your needs

Explore the thriving local olive scene

77 HUNTER VALLEY VISITOR GUIDE

MAP

46 HUNTER VALLEY WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL

82 CELLAR DOORS

40 PIT STOP

huntervalleywc

A fun-filled two-month fiesta of epicurian events

Your guide to the region

Sample the region’s awardwinning wines

137 REGIONAL MAP

Get where you want to go in the region with our pull-out touring map WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

Hunter Valley Magazine is produced for the Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association by

Level 4, 10–14 Waterloo Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010

EDITOR Brenda Christian EXECUTIVE CREATIVE DIRECTOR Matt Batten SUBEDITOR Michael Ryan ART DIRECTORS Kristy McKay, Guy Pendlebury SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER Emma Rogers ACCOUNT DIRECTOR Meghan Winger MANAGING PARTNERS Fergus Stoddart, Richard Parker ADVERTISING MANAGERS Nicole Prioste 02 4932 7123 Kylee Dixon 02 4932 7123

PRINTING Offset Alpine Printing The distribution records of this publication have been submitted for independent audit with the Circulations Audit Board. No responsibility will be taken for the return of unsolicited manuscripts, images or materials. The opinions of contributing authors do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Reproduction of any content of this publication (including images and text) for any purpose is prohibited, unless prior written permission is obtained from the publisher. Prices, specifications and availability of products and services were correct at the time of printing and may change without prior notice. In this publication you will see advertising material submitted by third parties. Individual advertisers are solely responsible for the content of advertising material they submit to us, including ensuring that it complies with all relevant laws and regulations. Neither Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association nor the publisher accepts any responsibility whatsoever for the content of any advertising material contained herein, including, without limitation, any error, omission or inaccuracy therein. A selection of the images featured have been sourced from Getty Images and Thinkstock.

WELCOME Welcome to the eighth issue of Hunter Valley Magazine, which focuses on how to best discover and enjoy Australia’s oldest wine region. We have been celebrating recently with a large number of local businesses who have been honoured with impressive awards. McGuigan Wines was crowned International Winemaker of the Year for a history-making fourth time and Bruce Tyrrell was awarded the prestigious Graham Gregory Award at the 2016 NSW Wine Awards. Tyrrell’s Wines also won its sixth Wine of Provenance Award at the National Wine Show of Australia. In TripAdvisor’s The Travellers’ Choice Award, Muse Restaurant won the number one position in Australia, while Restaurant Botanica was awarded number three. Plus, at the NSW Tourism Awards, Margan Wines & Restaurant won Gold for Excellence in Food Tourism and Cháteau Élan at The Vintage took home the Gold for Business Event Venues. Both were inducted into the Hall of Fame for winning their respective categories for the third consecutive year. Margan Wines & Restaurant also won Gold for Excellence in Food Tourism at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards. But that’s not all, The Hunter Valley Coffee Roaster received a gold medal for Champion Australian Grown Coffee at the Golden Bean Australia Awards and Harrigan’s Irish Pub won Best Retail Liquor Outlet at the Australian Hotels Association NSW Awards for Excellence! In this issue of the magazine, we reveal that the Hunter Valley is becoming a primo producer of Italian wines on page 20 and chat to four female winemakers on page 28. You can also discover which classic dishes chefs can’t take off the menu on page 34, where to taste olives on page 40 and where to take the kids on page 61. You’ll also find visitor information, business listings and a regional map to help you get around.

The Hon. George Souris AM Chairman Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association

OUR CONTRIBUTORS

COVER PHOTO

Photographer: Chris Elfes.

Which cellar doors should we visit for delicious It alian wines?*

REGIONAL GUIDE & MAP

* It’s time t o let our tastebuds r oam

SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO • 1 TRUE BREW LOCAL WITH TASTY CRAFT BEER • 4 OLIVE PRODUCERS WITH FREE TASTINGS • 6 CHEFS REVEAL THEIR GREAT CLASSICS • 10 TOP ATTRACTIONS FOR KIDS

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

DANIEL HONAN

Born and raised in the Hunter Valley, Daniel is a news journalist turned wine writer and founder of In Grapes We Trust events. He also writes for James Halliday’s Wine Companion magazine, Selector Magazine and Newcastle Herald.

RICK ALLEN

Rick Allen is a former newspaper editor, who branched out in recent years into travel and wine writing. His work has appeared in Gourmet Traveller, The Sydney Morning Herald, The Sun-Herald and London’s Sunday Telegraph.

ALLISON TAIT

Allison Tait is a freelance writer, author and blogger who contributes to various publications including Sunday Telegraph’s Sunday Style Magazine. When she’s not writing about wine and weddings, she writes fiction.

STEPHANIE CLIFFORD-SMITH

Stephanie is a food writer and author. She co-edited the Sydney Eats guide for three years and now reviews for many guides, including The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide.

Introducing... NEW TREATS FOR YOUR TASTE BUDS Serving modern Australian with a focus on sustainably produced products, this fresh new concept restaurant, Pipetteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s is exclusively open Thursday to Saturday from 6pm onwards. Blending contemporary styled dishes with a balance of flavours to engage all your senses, the inspired new menu features locally sourced artisan produce including fresh King Fish fillet, natural Sydney rock oysters and charred kangaroo fillets, you will want to return time and time again to try everything on offer. Be sure to leave room for dessert with the droolworthy white chocolate dome with strawberry mousse, grilled peaches and macadamia crumb or for the more adventurous we suggest the peanut butter ice cream, tempered chocolate, maple bacon and caramelised banana.

Bookings are essential, so make sure you give them a call on 02 4993 1854 to secure your table in advance.

The new Connoisseurs is fast establishing itself as one of the best whiskey bars in the Hunter Valley, offering the opportunity to relax in their earthy, wooden inspired dĂŠcor and enjoy one of many different whiskies from around the world, plus exotic cocktails and delicious gins. Discreetly tucked away inside Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort, the intimate bar is open Thursday to Saturday and welcomes true connoisseurs from all corners of the globe. Guests come to sample and savor some of our rarest and most prized expressions. Our whiskies can be enjoyed neat or on-the-rocks, the true alliance of flavor for utmost relaxation.

Whiskey Bar Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort

TAKES DARK SPIRITS TO A NEW LEVEL

oakshotels.com

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Broke Rd

Visit our cellar door. Open every day, with the exception of Christmas Day and Good Friday.

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Broke Rd

McDonalds Road, Pokolbin 02 4998 4111 mcguiganwines.com.au #McGuiganWines #BringaMcGuigan

NEWS SOCIAL

ON THE GRAPEVINE THE TASTES, PLACES AND PLATES YOU’RE SHARING FROM YOUR HUNTER VALLEY TRIP.

HUNTER VALLEY

1. @hattynash Let’s ride into the weekend. 2. @bellesyd82 Soaking up the views at Bistro Molines. 3. @keycurator Sunsets at Mount View. 4 @eat.play.luxe Weekend eats at Emerson’s. 5. Making memories in the Hunter Valley @kemikulz. 6. @marilynkisser Meeting the friendly locals. 7. Wine, Eat, Nap repeat for @saevilrow at Sebel Kirkton Park. 8. @sarahlee08 You can’t beat the views from up in the sky.

WANT MORE?

TAG #HUNTERVALLEY OR @HUNTERVALLEYWC AND SHARE YOUR PICS ON INSTAGRAM

5. WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

NEWS SNIPPETS WINE DICTIONARY

TOP-NOTCH COFFEE If you value beautiful beans and expert brewing, The Hunter Valley Coffee Roaster should be on your hit list. This small-batch specialty roaster won a gold medal in the Australian Grown category for its ‘Silver Lining’ single origin at the 2016 Compak Golden Bean Awards. Owner Terissa KerrRobinson sources the award-winning beans from Mountain Top Coffee in Nimbin. “I chose Mountain Top Coffee as they are a small Australian producer who offers a clean, pesticide-free, sustainable and ethical product with all growing, picking and production done onsite at the farm

by local people,” says Terissa. Her four coffees include a blend, a specialty seasonal single-origin, a lowcaffeine and an organic variety. Roasted beans for espresso and filter coffee are available as whole beans or ground to order in 250g, 500g and 1kg packs. Her best tip for the perfect cup of coffee? “Make sure your coffee beans are as fresh as possible … nothing more than three weeks old and grind just before you drink.” You can visit the roaster at Worthington’s Vineyard on Palmers Lane, Pokolbin or buy beans online at thepropgroup.com.au

Vertical Tasting: I overheard someone in a cellar door the other day wondering if a vertical tasting meant they were stand-up tastings. Nope, you can sit down. A vertical tasting is when you taste one wine variety by the same producer from a variety of vintages (or different years), usually progressing from youngest to oldest. Lots of cellar doors offer vertical tastings – sometimes for a fee – so just ask, as it’s a great way to see how one wine can change from year to year.

TWO-WHEEL WINE TRAIL The Hunter Valley’s newest claim to fame is a bike-friendly wine route along Hermitage Road from the New England Highway to Broke Road in Pokolbin. The project is due for completion by July 2017 and will excite active wine lovers who can cycle along the dedicated bike path linking more than a dozen wineries along the vine-lined road. An information bay just south of Old North Road will include a regional map, tourist information, seating and picnic tables, with other rest areas planned along the route. There are three bicycle hire companies in the area that can deliver a bike to your door and make sure you strap on the panniers so you can load up your precious wine cargo!

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133 reasons to visit Tempus Two 2 016 O U T S TA N D I N G W I N E S H O W S U C C E S S

6 x Trophies 1 x Top Gold 2 x Double Gold 16 x Gold 40 x Silver 68 x Bronze

We are proud to celebrate the success of our born and bred Hunter Valley winemaker, Andrew Duff. His passion to make quality wine has produced a record number of awards across our Pewter, Copper and Varietal series. Cheers to you, Andrew. Trophies include: CHINA WINE & SPIRITS AWARDS Australian Wine of the Year – Pewter Series Chardonnay 2014 CAIRNS WINE SHOW Champion White in Show – Pewter Series Chardonnay, Poppy’s Block 2015 CAIRNS WINE SHOW Champion Wine in Show – Pewter Series Chardonnay, Poppy’s Block 2015 RIVERINA WINE SHOW Best Chardonnay of Show – Pewter Series Chardonnay, Poppy’s Block 2015 RIVERINA WINE SHOW Best Wine in Show – Pewter Series Chardonnay, Poppy’s Block 2015 HUNTER VALLEY WINE SHOW Best Rosé of Show – Copper Series Shiraz Rosé 2016

Taste these award winners at our Cellar Door. #tempustwo

Contact

Taste

Enquiries welcome Cellar Door +61 2 4993 3999 Open 7 days

Tempus Two Cellar Door Crn Broke & McDonalds Rds Pokolbin NSW 2320

T E M P U S T W O.C O M . A U

NEWS SNIPPETS

ASK THE EXPERT We ask 2016 Hunter Valley Viticulturist of the Year Paul Harvey, from Mount Pleasant Cellar Door, the difference between reds and whites. What’s the difference between white and red grapes/wine? All grapes, regardless of the colour of their skins, have clear juice. Yep, bet you didn’t know that. It’s all about skin contact, which is the amount of time the skins of the grapes are combined with the juice. Red wine is made by leaving the red skins in the juice during fermentation to colour it. Rosé is a great example – Rosés may have only been left on skins for a few hours. Which is better for your health? Red or white? It’s a toss-up. They both have similar kilojoule counts but white wine usually has slightly fewer kilojoules (although this depends on the variety), so if you’re trying to lose weight opt for white. But studies have shown that resveratrol – a powerful antioxidant found in grapes – might protect the body from heart attack, cancer and stroke. Red wine has more resveratrol as it is fermented longer on skins, so that’s why people say red wine is better for you. But like anything, moderation is the key.

#HUNTER HOUNDS

Name: Kimba Breed: Border Collie x Cattle Dog Age: 6 months Owner: Michael and Meredith McManus of Stomp! Wines Pet hate: No-one to play with Favourite furry friend: Oliver the cattle dog next door. Dirty deeds: They say I ‘steal’ things but I call it ‘sharing’. They also say I ‘chase’ the guinea pigs … but I’m just giving them some exercise!

Share photos of the #hunterhounds you meet while touring our wine region on Facebook (HunterValleyWineCountry), Instagram (@huntervalleywc) or Twitter (@huntervalleywc).

TAKE A SPIN THROUGH YESTERYEAR Ditch the fastest route to the Hunter Valley and take the scenic one along Tourist Drive 33 and immerse yourself in the history of the region. The winding 240km old convict trail, now called the Great North Road, was built by convicts between 1826 and 1836. Not only does it offer “OMG let’s Insta that” country views around every corner, but it still has many convict-built bridges, culverts and walls you can check out as well. It leads to the awesomely quaint village of Wollombi, where you can stop at the Wollombi Tavern for a nip of a local concoction called Dr Jurd’s Jungle Juice or taste wines at Stonehurst or Wollombi Wines. Download a map with info about convict relics along the route at greatnorthroad.com.au

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

NEWS SNIPPETS

4 BOUTIQUE REDS TO ENJOY BY THE FIRE 1. Capercaillie Wines Chambourcin 2015 $28 Chambourcin is a French-American hybrid red-grape variety grown by a handful of Hunter Valley vineyards. A vibrant and deep-coloured wine showing ripe plum and spice aromas typical of the variety, it matches well with a wide range of foods, including seafood, game meats, lamb, turkey, ham, pizza and pasta. capercailliewine.com.au 2. Travertine The Capital Tannat 2013 $25 Tannat is a red wine variety from South West France that grows well in warmer climates. This full-bodied wine has a rich palate of juicy plums, blackcurrant and ripe berry fruits with a combination of spicy integrated oak and liquorice. Enjoy this red with duck confit or South American red meat dishes. travertinewines.com.au 3. Macquariedale 2015 Matthew Merlot $32 This certified biodynamic/ organic Merlot was handpicked, fermented using natural wild yeast and has no added nutrients, enzymes, acids or animal fining agents. It exhibits some great cherry and blackcurrant complexity with soft, smooth tannins. Perfect with slow-cooked beef or pasta, or mature and full-flavoured cheeses. macquariedale.com.au 4. Hanging Tree 2012 Shiraz $28 Shiraz is the numero uno red in the Hunter Valley and rightly so. This wine exhibits a rustic earthiness with spicy plum fruits and green peppercorns with a dark chocolate and coffee bean element. The palate is succulent with subtle oak and tannins giving a complex and long finish. Enjoy with barbecued lamb ribs or roast beef. hangingtreewines.com.au

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ANYONE FOR TEA? Sabor Tea Room is the new go-to spot for those who love sipping tea out of delicate crockery while nibbling on dainty sandwiches and fluffy scones. Morning or afternoon tea is offered on weekends with a glass of bubbles to kick things off. “We use traditional loose-leaf tea from Origin Tea,” says managing director Fernando Antao. “They are a family-owned Australian company who use single-origin teas from their plantation in Sri Lanka, and they also

HOLY COW, A NEW DAIRY!

give back to their workers, offering free health care and help with housing and schools, so they seem to be a great company.” Sabor Tea Room serves nine teas, with plans to extend the range, and a wide selection of high-tea treats created by head pastry chef Nicole Fang, including traditional cucumber sandwiches, scones, mini croissants and handmade chocolates. 319 Wilderness Road, Lovedale. sabortearoom.com.au

Love cheese? Then you’ll want to make a note that award-winning Binnorie Dairy is moving to new digs later this year. Simon Gough has been making fresh handcrafted artisan cheese since 2003 when he set up the dairy on Mistletoe Lane but has decided it’s time to expand, building a bigger dairy and tasting room in Lovedale (with plans for a cafe too). Try surfaceripened cheese like brie, the flagship marinated feta, or labna – a yoghurt cheese from cows’ milk. 25 Lodge Road, Lovedale. binnorie.com.au

Gundog Estate is a boutique wine producer owned and operated by the Burton family. Our passion for high quality, regionally distinct wine has inspired us to pursue two of Australia’s most unique and highly acclaimed varieties - Semillon & Shiraz. We invite you to experience these wines in the relaxed ambience of the Gundog Hunter Cellar and Gourmet Pantry! “Best Small Cellar Door Lower Hunter” Gourmet Traveller WINE Magazine 2013 “Five Star Winery” 2017 James Halliday Wine Companion “Rising Star” Winemaker Matt Burton, 2010 Hunter Wine Industry Awards Open 7 Days, 10am - 5pm 101 Mcdonalds Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 | 02 4998 6873 info@gundogestate.com.au | www.gundogestate.com.au

WINE ITALIAN

VIVA ITALIA! ENJOY THE FLAVOURS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN IN THE HEART OF THE HUNTER VALLEY. WORDS: DANIEL HONAN PHOTOS: CHRIS ELFES

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WINE ITALIAN ANDREW MARGAN IN HIS PICTURESQUE BARBERA VINEYARD AT BROKE.

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“I planted Barbera on our volcanic soils here in Broke because I think they suit the region well.” ITALIANS DO IT BETTER, or so they say. There’s no doubt the Hunter Valley makes some of the world’s best Semillon and Shiraz – a tradition the area is fiercely proud of – but variety is the spice of life and Hunter Valley winegrowers have been experimenting with some of Italy’s best wine grape varieties, including Arneis, Barbera, Nebbiolo, Vermentino and Fiano, with great success. Mike De Iuliis from De Iuliis Wines has recently trialled Montepulciano, a plummy, rich red variety, and Mount Pleasant chief winemaker Jim Chatto plans to plant Sagrantino, Montepulciano and Vermentino. If you need more proof the Italian presence is firmly entrenched in Wine Country, there’s even a festival celebrating all things Italian – A Little Bit of Italy in Broke – held in April each year. We take a look at some of the more popular Italian wines on offer in the region.

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PROSECCO is a late ripening variety from the Veneto and Friuli wine regions of Northern Italy and is commonly used to make inexpensive fizz. Maybe you know it as Spumante? Prosecco can be much cheaper than Champagne, but is just as fun. “Prosecco is a beautiful grape variety,” says Usher Tinkler from Usher Tinkler Wines (Usher believes he is the only producer with Prosecco plantings). “It has big leaves to protect the fruit from the sun and berries that have thick skins that hold the juice inside, which gives great texture and flavour to the wine.” Prosecco is great as an aperitif. Usher recommends pairing it with some salumi and cheese.

FIANO is considered one of Italy’s classic vine varieties. It has its origins in Campania in Southern Italy and might even go

WINE ITALIAN

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: EBONY TINKLER SERVING PROSECCO, THE FUN FIZZ; DAVID HOOK HAS BEEN MAKING PINOT GRIGIO FOR 20 YEARS; THE WAY TO MARGAN’S BARBERA VINES. Peterson’s Wines, it becomes a more full-bodied style of wine. “We’ve been making Vermentino over the last four years,” says Gary. “We like to let the year dictate the style and I enjoy playing around with barrel ferments to introduce textures that complement food.” Freshly caught trout doused in butter, garlic and rosemary is Gary’s go-to dish to pair with a glass of Hunter Valley Vermentino.

back as far as the Romans. Fashionable Fiano is a refreshing and flavoursome white wine with distinctive pear, lime juice and ginger characteristics. You can find it at Margan Wines, Briar Ridge, Mistletoe Wines, Stomp! Wines and Hart & Hunter. “Fiano seems to have struck a chord in the Hunter Valley,” says Jodie Belleville, one half of the boutique winemaking duo Hart & Hunter. “It’s a variety that can handle heat and rain, which makes it great for growing here. And its beautiful acid profile gives the wines great scope with food pairings.” Jodie recommends drinking a glass of Fiano with a crunchy plate of fritto misto (fried seafood and vegetables).

VERMENTINO grapes make a high-quality white wine that seems to benefit from close proximity to the sea (it’s widely planted in Sardinia). Believe it or not, the Hunter Valley is only 60km west of the Pacific Ocean, so perhaps it’s no surprise that around a dozen wineries are now producing Vermentino, including Scarborough Wines, First Creek Wines, Pepper Tree Wines, Tallavera Grove, Briar Ridge and Bimbadgen (the latter two won trophies at the 2016 Hunter Valley Wine Show). Vermentino is typically acid driven, with stone fruit aromatics, but in the hands of winemaker Gary Reed from

PINOT GRIGIO is technically Pinot Gris, a French grape variety. But the style of wine that the Italians – and a couple of intrepid Hunter Valley winemakers – produce is much leaner, more acidic and fresher than the slippery textures and apricot flavours of Pinot Gris. “Our Pinot Grigio vines were planted by Aldo Zuzza in the early 1980s,” says Adina Vineyard’s Peter O’Meara. “It’s a fuller bodied style with flavours of quince and baked apple.” David Hook from David Hook Wines has been making Pinot Grigio in the Hunter Valley for 20 years. “The grapes have a naturally high acidity, which is great for growing in our warmer climate,” says David. “They make a fresh, uncomplicated style with lots of fruit-forward characters that can soak up a range of cuisines.” Both Peter and David recommend fresh salads and seafood to go with a chilled glass of Italian Pinot Grigio. It’s not just the winemakers who are hooked on Italian wine grapes. These alternative Hunter Valley varietals perform extremely well each year at the annual Hunter Valley Wine Show. “[Italian] whites especially are forging ahead here in the Hunter Valley, with Fiano and Vermentino leading the way,” says Chairman of Judges, PJ Charteris. “Crisp and crunchy acidity with textural qualities unique to each variety provide a great counterpoint to the traditional styles of Semillon, Chardonnay and Verdelho. And the reds aren’t too far behind.” WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

WINE ITALIAN

“Sangiovese is a racy red Italian variety from Central Tuscany.” No relation to Hanna, BARBERA is a medium-bodied red grape variety hailing from the rolling hills of Asti, in Italy’s Piedmont region. Deeply coloured, the wines are naturally soft, with sweet cherry red fruit flavours and sometimes, a touch of spice. David Hook and Margan Wines are champions of Barbera. “I planted Barbera on our volcanic soils here in Broke because I think they suit the region well,” says winegrower/ winemaker Andrew Margan from Margan Wines. “The grapes obtain ripe flavours at lower sugars and higher acids, meaning we can make wines with great acid balance and savoury tannins, which is a very Italian wine trait.” A rich, red spaghetti Bolognese is Andrew’s preferred dish to match with a bottle of his Barbera.

SANGIOVESE is a racy red Italian variety from Central Tuscany. It’s used to make the region’s light-in-colour, high-intannin, herbal, plum and black cherry Chiantis. In the Hunter Valley, Sangiovese is responsible for making some of the region’s most exciting alternative varietal wines from labels such as David Hook and Tintilla Estate Wines. “It’s a very versatile grape that tends to adapt to whatever the weather throws at it,” says Tintilla’s James Lusby. “Our standalone Saphira Sangiovese is medium-bodied, displaying sweet red berries with a fine savoury finish.” Sangiovese is well suited to fava beans and a range of saucy Italian pastas, but James loves to have a glass with confit pork cutlet, garlic and roasted potatoes.

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Hailing from Umbria in Central Italy, SAGRANTINO has been found thriving on patches of terra rossa soil close to the Brokenback Range. Like Umbria, the Hunter Valley is hot and sunny and Sagrantino seems to have found a new home here. “Italian Sagrantino is a dark, brooding and tannic variety, but here we see quite a lot of the Hunter Valley’s classic regional attributes shining through, such as a classic mediumbodied savouriness and elegance,” explains Tallavera Grove winegrower, Tim Davis. Tim reckons you can’t go past a slice of authentic Italian wood-fired pizza with this wine, especially when the crusty, blistered edges of the dough marry together with the smooth tannins of Sagrantino.

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE:TASTE SEVERAL ITALIAN VARIETIES AT TALLAVERA GROVE AND ORDER AN ITALIAN PLATTER TO GO WITH YOUR WINE; TRY A SAGRANTINO, A MEDIUM-BODIED SAVOURY RED.

ONE OF THE HARDEST

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2016 Cellar Door of the Year Hunter Valley Legends Awards 2015 Winemaker of the Year Hunter Valley Legends Awards 2015 Three wines in James Hallidayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Top 100 Wines

2014 Best Red Wine of Innovation Hunter Valley Wine Show

5 red star winery since 2010 James Halliday, Australian Wine Companion

1616 BROKE ROAD, POKOLBIN NSW 2320 T 02 4993 8000 E SALES@DEWINE.COM.AU DEWINE.COM.AU MIKEDEIULII DEIULIISWINES

WINE ITALIAN

A MAGNIFICENT SEVEN

AN ITALIAN WINE FOR EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK ... SALUTE!

EASY DRINKING Adina 2015 Pinot Grigio, $25 The colour of sun-bleached straw with slightly spicy, yellow floral scents. Juicy golden apples and honey in the mouth. Full-bodied and balanced.

BOLD & BEAUTIFUL Tallavera Grove 2014 Sagrantino, $25 Deep red, almost purple. Black fruits; plums, mulberries and dark olives. Juicy, smooth texture with fine velvet tannins that soften with a little time and air.

FUN FIZZ Usher Tinkler Wines 2016 La Volpe Prosecco, $30 What’s a bit of fun without a bit of fizz? This smart as a fox 100 per cent Hunter Valley grown Prosecco hints at fresh grapefruit, pear skins and white flowers by the sea.

Tintilla Estate 2014 Saphira Sangiovese, $35 High octane scents of peppered cherries and red currants, some toasted oak and cola. Cranberries and dried herbs. Tart but juicy with mouthpuckering tannin.

CRISP DRY WHITE Hart & Hunter 2016 Dr B’s Fiano, $28 Ultra-refreshing, thirst quenching tonic that might just put the frighteners on young Semillon! Think lemongrass and lime, green pineapple; sweet, fresh, crisp and dry.

LIGHT & LEMONY Petersons Wines 2016 Vermentino, $25 A very delicious drop featuring lovely scents of fresh pear, white flowers and almonds followed by juicy lemon flavours and salivating white nectarine acidity for a crisp, refreshing finish. WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

FOOD FRIENDLY

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MEDIUM-BODIED RED Margan 2014 Breaking Ground Barbera, $40 Red with a hot pink hue. Black cherry, bubblegum, figs and mint, then dark cherries and red plums span the palate with all-spice oak and very gentle tannins.

Specialising in Semillon and Shiraz

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keeping it simple

Come visit our new Cellar Door - Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin, NSW, 2320 Australia T (02) 4998 7134

E cellardoor@thomaswines.com.au

W thomaswines.com.au

TIP-TOP TALENT MEET SOME WINEMAKERS WHO ARE BETTER WITH WINE THAN THEY ARE WITH WHEELBARROWS! WORDS: BRENDA CHRISTIAN PHOTOS: CHRIS ELFES

WHEN YOU THINK of pioneering women and wine, Champagne probably springs to mind: Bollinger, Pommery, Laurent-Perrier, Veuve Clicquot are all heavyweight Champagne houses that owe their success to women. In the 19th century, these widows kickstarted a feminist revolution in the male-dominated wine business after they audaciously took over the reins of the Champagne houses following the deaths of their husbands. And they were super successful at it to boot. Fast forward a few centuries (and swap hemispheres) and women don’t have to wait for widowhood to have a prominent role in the Australian wine industry. Although to be fair, the gender divide still exists, with figures from the 2011 census showing women are still in the minority in the wine industry. But the Hunter Valley appears to buck this trend as women make their presence known in every aspect of the wine biz, from matriarchs like Fay McGuigan and marketing doyennes Sally Scarborough, Jess McLeish, Jane Tyrrell and Ebony Tinkler, to managers Christina Tulloch and Manda Duffy.

But what’s that I hear you say? It’s all well and good to point out those in marketing and management but what about the jobs that are really hard yakka? Well, Wine Country women are no shrinking violets: they’ve also muscled in on the macho male-only clubs of yesteryear, carving careers in the vineyards and wineries. Viticulturists Liz Riley, Kat Barry, Louise Eather, Belinda Kelly and Jenny Bright are pruning and ploughing the vineyards next to the blokes. And yes, that male-bastion position of winemaker has also well and truly been breached with award-winning winemakers Liz Jackson, Gwyn Olsen, Xanthe Hatcher and Kate Sturgess – to borrow from Annie Lennox – “doing it for themselves”. Yep, women are an intrinsic part of Wine Country and no matter what their role, they’re all dedicated to promoting the region and its wines, along with their male counterparts. We don’t have space to interview all of the women in Wine Country but we did sit down with four winemakers from this close-knit community to get an insight into their lives.

ABOVE, LEFT TO RIGHT: SPENCER, GWYN’S LOYAL SCHNAUZER, XANTHE HATCHER, LIZ JACKSON, KATE STURGESS AND GWYN OLSEN.

WINE WOMEN

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XANTHE HATCHER Winemaker Audrey Wilkinson Wines, Cockfighter’s Ghost Wines, Poole’s Rock Wines The 33-year-old commenced her wine journey as manager of a Sydney wine retailer before joining Hungerford Hill as assistant winemaker. Her move to multi-brand stable Agnew Wines in 2013 has since advanced Xanthe to winemaker. In addition to her nomination for the Wine Society Young Winemaker of the Year, Xanthe was awarded the 2016 Hunter Valley Alasdair Sutherland Scholarship, an award recognising young and aspiring Hunter Valley wine professionals. What got you involved in the wine industry? My family used to tell me that ‘winemaking is in the blood’ because my great-great grandfather was a Frenchman who lived in Paris and had a vineyard in the Côte-d’Or, where he and his sons used to make wine. I certainly know there’s nothing else I would rather do so perhaps there is some truth to it. Most challenging aspect of being a female in a male-dominated industry? I do regularly find myself as the only female surrounded by men. At this year’s Hunter Valley Boutique Wine Show I was the only female judge and in my own workplace I’m the only female in the winery team. To be honest, I have never come across any difficulties. I have always found myself to be given the opportunities of my male colleagues and believe that if you are good at your job you will get noticed and rewarded. What is the best wine you’ve ever made? The 2016 Poole’s Rock Chardonnay because it’s a style of Chardonnay that I love and I want to make. It uses barrel fermentation, lees stirring and partial malolactic fermentation to give a wine texture and weight while retaining beautiful fruit expression. Is there a female figure in the wine world you look up to or find inspirational? Liz Riley, owner and viticulurist of Vitibit, for her extensive knowledge of the Hunter Valley vineyards.

WINE WOMEN

“My guilty wine pleasure is Champagne. It really is a wine for all occasions.” the decisions myself, from picking to press method and press cut, to finings, balancing and finishing. It took out the coveted Best Young Semillon trophy at the Hunter Valley Wine Show in the first year that I was at the helm of Briar Ridge. Your guilty wine pleasure? Champagne. It really is a wine for all occasions, whether you are remembering a loved one lost, celebrating one of life’s big events or cherishing the every day.

GWYN OLSEN Head winemaker Briar Ridge & Tallavera Grove Vineyards, Pepper Creek Wines The 33-year-old completed her first vintage in France, with a further six in New Zealand at Villa Maria, before moving to the Hunter Valley and taking up a senior winemaking role at McWilliams Mount Pleasant. Her achievements include being named dux of the Australian Wine Research Institute in 2012 and winning Gourmet Traveller WINE’s Young Winemaker Medal in 2014 and the Hunter Valley Rising Star of the Year Award in 2015. She was a 2015 Len Evans Tutorial Scholar and also judges at several wine shows around Australia.

Most challenging aspect of working in a male-dominated industry? I have been very fortunate. Most of the companies I’ve worked for have fostered the growth of both men and women equally. The most challenging aspects I’ve dealt with during my career are the blatant sexist remarks from superiors, colleagues, contemporaries and the general public. The shock that the public has when I inform them that I ‘am not the promo girl’ and ‘did actually make the wine’ is confronting and ridiculous. What is the best wine you’ve ever made? The wine I am most proud of is the 2014 Briar Ridge Dairy Hill Semillon. It was the first wine where I made all

What’s on your playlist in the winery? We are a Triple J winery so that is blasting from the moment the roller door of the shed goes up to the time it is shut. Occasionally, I put on a bit of cheesy pop to switch it up a bit and get the Verdelho fermenting, but that’s normally changed back to the radio by the cellar hands. What is the most surprising wine and food match you’ve experienced? Champagne and hot chips. I have a real soft spot for deep-fried potatoes (which is why I spend so much time running!) and they pair so deliciously well together. The bigger, richer Champagnes such as Krug are great with shoestring fries whereas the fresher, linear blanc de blanc styles such as Comte are better with beerbattered steak chips. Any tips for budding female winemakers? Be physically fit, become a good cellar hand and learn the winery from the ground up. Get dirty. Ask questions. Find some good mentors. WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

WINE WOMEN LIZ JACKSON Chief winemaker First Creek Wines Liz, 38, worked as a lab assistant at Brokenwood Wines before majoring in winemaking at Roseworthy College. She was winemaker at Tempus Two and Roche Estate and now makes wine for First Creek and her own label, Silkman Wines, as well as being a contract winemaker for around 20 other labels. Liz has won the Hunter Valley Winemaker of the Year twice (2011 and 2016), and was Dux of the Len Evans Tutorial in 2006. What did you want to be when you grew up? I’ve always loved animals – today I have two Staffordshire bull terriers named Jack and Chilli – so from an early age I dreamed of becoming a veterinarian.

What got you involved in the wine industry? I grew up in Cessnock and while studying at Newcastle University I got a job at Pepper Tree Wines in sales (I wasn’t a very good salesperson I can tell you!) and through the small and supportive Hunter Valley wine industry, I heard of a lab assistant role at Brokenwood Wines, which was more up my street. Most challenging aspect of being a female in a male-dominated industry? Difficult question as I don’t feel that it is so male-dominated anymore, but I know stats will disagree. I simply get on and do my job, running my own brand and the largest winery in the Hunter Valley. The best wine you’ve ever made? The 2014 Silkman Chardonnay, which my husband Shaun Silkman and I made

together. In 2015 it was named top wine at the annual James Halliday Chardonnay Challenge where 960 wines from 60 wine regions were judged. We were ecstatic! Your guilty wine pleasure? White Burgundy [Chardonnay] is my favourite wine in the world. It’s expensive so I only get to drink it on really special occasions. If it’s a no-expense-spared occasion it will be a bottle of Bouchard – my all-time favourite. What’s on your playlist during long hours in the winery? The Waifs – very loud as I love to sing loud but have a terrible voice. Favourite Hunter Valley experience? Lunch with friends at The Cellar restaurant as they let us stay from lunch to dinner!

“White Burgundy is my favourite wine in the world .”

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KATE STURGESS Assistant winemaker Brokenwood Wines Kate, 28, studied viticulture and oenology in Adelaide then worked vintages in McLaren Vale, the Grampians, the Hunter Valley and the Okanagan Valley in Canada, before taking up the position of assistant winemaker at Balnaves in Coonawarra. She then moved to the Hunter Valley with her Cavador (Labrador x King Charles Cavalier) Winston, to work at Brokenwood. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? I guess it depends at what point you asked me. I fluctuated between Olympic dressage rider, vet and architect but I decided in year 10 I wanted to be a winemaker so that was quite early! Most challenging aspect of working in the wine industry? I have been really lucky to have had some excellent mentors, both male and female, to help me get my start. As a result, sometimes the hardest thing for me is to remind myself that not everyone has had such support and that a lot of the women I admire have had to work very hard and fight a lot of battles to get us to this point. Realising how I can help other women get recognised and involved in the industry is something I really try to keep front of mind. What is the best wine you’ve ever made? Haha, that’s like asking who someone’s favourite child is! The wine that I have learnt the most from is probably the 2016 Brokenwood Tallawanta Semillon, which has gone on to do quite well in some wine shows as well. The great thing about winemaking, though, is that every wine is different and each has their own challenges and rewards. Your guilty wine pleasure? Whenever there is a bottle of our Indigo Vineyard Chardonnay open in the lab I always try to take it home to finish off! Most surprising wine and food match? A tradition at Brokenwood at the start of each vintage is natural oysters with our Semillon in place of a squeeze of lemon. It works a lot better than I expected and is addictive!

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DINE CLASSICS

BODEGA RESTAURANTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S STICKY DATE PUDDING.

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GREAT CLASSICS LOOKING FOR TOP FOOD GEMS THAT ARE REAL CROWD PLEASERS? LOCAL CHEFS REVEAL THE FEEL-GOOD DISHES THAT DINERS COME BACK FOR TIME AND TIME AGAIN.

FOR ALL THE commitment chefs across the Hunter Valley show to seasonality, some dishes that customers order repeatedly change little, if at all, throughout the year. It doesn’t matter one bit how steamy summer can be, chocolate, gnocchi, puddings and protein are perennial favourites. Their appeal lies in a feel-good factor sometimes linked with comfort and familiarity, while for others it’s about the sense of occasion or indulgence they create. Science says these types of foods, often soft in texture, can make us feel happy or more connected when we’re down or lonely. That aside, their sheer

deliciousness means they’ll always work, even for the happiest of customers. So lest diners around the Valley revolt, these classic creations aren’t going anywhere any time soon. Adam Bartley, executive chef at Bodega Restaurant & Bar, reckons their sticky date pudding is a good contender for the most popular dish award. “We call it ‘world famous’ so that gets customers excited I think. It’s made with a bit of love and it’s nice and moist. We serve it with double cream and butterscotch sauce (recipe follows). It’s been on the menu for two or three years and it’s staying on. There’d be an uproar if we ever took it off,” he says. WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

WORDS: STEPHANIE CLIFFORD-SMITH

DINE CLASSICS

PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

“ It’s one of those dishes to share that works well for couples.” THE LEGENDS GRILL @ THE VINTAGE

STICKY DATE PUDDING WITH BUTTERSCOTCH SAUCE

Vintage Drive, Rothbury, 02 4998 2613, thevintage.com.au Tony Maher, executive chef at the Vintage, doesn’t hesitate when asked the dish people return for time and again. “It’d have to be our chateaubriand, a classic French dish. It’s a 500g eye fillet, which we serve with bone marrow, mushrooms, asparagus, bearnaise and red wine jus,” he says. He introduced the dish when he first arrived at The Vintage eight years ago and it’s as popular now as ever. “It’s one of those dishes to share that works well for couples and presents really well, sliced and layered on the board.” He advises against requesting it well done. “Because there’s not a lot of fat marbling to keep it moist, it’s not a good cut to cook above medium.” Wine match: Thomas Allen The Old School Shiraz

SERVES 6

Butterscotch sauce • 1 cup brown sugar • 100g butter • 250ml pure cream METHOD Pudding 1. Place the dates and the water in a medium saucepan over a high heat. 2. When the date mixture starts to boil, add the bicarb soda and the butter and remove from the heat. 3. Set saucepan aside and allow mixture to cool. During this time the butter will melt. 4. Preheat oven to 180°C degrees or 160°C degrees if you have a fan-forced oven. 5. Grease 6 muffin pans or ramekins. 6. Transfer the date mixture to a medium mixing bowl.

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7. Whisk the eggs and vanilla into date mixture until combined. 8. Mix the flour and brown sugar together. 9. Add the flour/sugar mixture to the date mixture and fold through until combined. 10. Spoon mixture into prepared pans. 11. Bake for 30 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean. 12. Allow to cool in pans for 5 minutes and then turn upside down on a plate. 13. Smother with butterscotch sauce and serve with double cream. Butterscotch sauce 1. Place sugar, butter and cream in a saucepan over medium heat. 2. Cook, stirring, without boiling, for 4 minutes or until sugar dissolves. Bring to the boil. 3. Once at the boil, reduce heat to low. 4. Simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened. Wine match: Ernest Hill Moondance Late Picked Gewurztraminer Bodega Restaurant & Bar @ Cypress Lakes Resort, 15 Thompsons Road, Pokolbin, 02 4993 1555, oakshotelsresorts.com

PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

INGREDIENTS Pudding • 250g deseeded dried dates • 300ml water • 1 teaspoon bicarb soda • 60g salted butter • 2 large eggs • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 175g self-raising flour • 150g brown sugar

The Hunter's Premier Destination

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

BEER - WINE - FOOD - MUSIC

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

Cellar Door & Brewhouse Cafe Open 7 Days 10am-5pm Live Music & Open Late on Weekends 2213 Broke Road Pokolbin, NSW 2320 (Opposite Pokolbin Village) - (02) 4993 3555

DINE CLASSICS

609 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin, 02 4998 7639 hermitagelodge.com.au Gnocchi is so popular at Il Cacciatore that it’s not just a permanent menu fixture, customers come to classes to learn how to make it. Owner Noreen Gottaas or chef Nicole Hall change the way they serve it according to the season and it’s the same in the classes. “Not only do they make the gnocchi but we demonstrate different ways of serving it, but I must say the gnocchi with chorizo, tomato, spinach and pine nuts is a firm favourite with diners.” Wine match: Scarborough Pinot Noir

PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

IL CACCIATORE RESTAURANT @ HERMITAGE LODGE

THE VERANDAH RESTAURANT

336 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin, 02 4998 7680 sebelhuntervalley.com.au Trent Webber, Locavore’s executive chef, nominates a barramundi dish as the classic customers can’t go past, but it’s one that morphs subtly and seasonally. “Everyone loves the Daintree barramundi with wine press, baby leek and fresh pea risotto with a saffron beurre blanc. We can tweak it and remodel it with the seasons but no matter what we do, it sells just as well. With the warmer weather we’ve done it pan seared on a sweet corn risotto, asparagus and smoked tomato butter (above). It sells just as fast as it was before. It’s a warm, filling, wholesome dish I suppose. It just makes you feel good,” he says. Wine match: Silkman Wines Reserve Chardonnay

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PHOTO: EMMA-JANE PITSCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LOCAVORE DINING @ SEBEL KIRKTON PARK

151 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin, 02 4998 7231, verandahrestaurant.com.au “I’ve been here 10 years and our softcentred chocolate souffles have been with me since the days of my previous job, running Barrenjoey House at Palm Beach. They’ve never left the menu here and never will while I’m at the helm,” says executive chef Matt Dillow. “It’s flourless so gluten-free people love it. We use Belgian chocolate, the best you can get, and serve it with almond and Baileys icecream, which everyone loves too,” says Matt, who’ll be featuring it in cooking classes from March to August 2017. Wine match: Calais Estate Reserve Botrytis Semillon

THE CELLAR RESTAURANT @ HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS VILLAGE Broke Road, Pokolbin, 02 4998 7584, the-cellar-restaurant.com.au Duck has been on the menu at The Cellar since the 1970s, says chef and proprietor Andrew Wright, and for the last four years their confit has become a massive draw card. “It’s soft and tender and we crisp it up in the pan before we serve it with roasted pears, Puy lentils, white beans and crisp pancetta. But it’s the creamy texture and slight saltiness that appeals I think,” says Andrew. Wine match: Brokenwood Baby Graveyard Shiraz

MISTLETOE is a small family owned and run winery that was established by the 28th year, Mistletoe’s “no-compromise” current owners in 1989. Now in its 2 approach to producing small quantities of “true to origin” premium quality wine has seen it rewarded with many, many hundreds of awards and accolades. With over 20 diﬀerent wines, including Sparkling, Whites, Reds, Rosés, Fortiﬁed and Dessert styles on tasting, Mistletoe has one of the most comprehensive ranges of wines to be seen in the Hunter. • • • •

All wines are made in our onsite winery Winery tastings available for larger groups – bookings essential! Mistletoe Wines are only available for purchase from the Winery Cellar Door Knowledgeable and friendly staﬀ to make you welcome

When visiting Mistletoe be sure to take time to visit POKOLBIN GALLERY and MISTLETOE SCULPTURE GARDEN also in the grounds of the Cellar Door.

With three generations now actively engaged in the day to day operation of Mistletoe, it is truly a unique family winery. Come up and meet the Mistletoe Girls who will make your visit all the more special. Mistletoe is now just 35 minutes form Newcastle – take the Hunter Expressway M15 which becomes the A15 (New England Highway) at Branxton and then take the Hermitage Road exit.

Open 10am until 6pm daily | 771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin 2320 PH 1800 055 080 FAX 02 4998 7792 E office@mistletoewines.com.au | W www.mistletoewines.com.au

PIT STOP

EXPLORE THE THRIVING OLIVE SCENE AND VISIT THESE LOCAL PRODUCERS, WHERE WINE AND OLIVES GO HAND IN HAND. WORDS: STEPHANIE CLIFFORD-SMITH

DINE OLIVES

OLIVES HAVE BEEN cultivated for 6000 years and although Australian operations are, by comparison, in their infancy, we’ve been growing them for about 200 years with the first tree planted in the 1820s still alive at Elizabeth Farm in Sydney’s west. Olive lovers can spend days exploring the many groves dotted around the Valley and tasting oils and olives as they go. Operators range from the substantial Pukara Estate in Muswellbrook with its 20,000 trees, to smaller holdings such as Pickled and Pitted in Broke and The Olive Company in Pokolbin, with the majority in the area working at boutique production levels. Whatever the size of the grove, they’re all contributing to the golden-green pool of olive oil, the undisputed darling of health experts everywhere.

TINTILLA ESTATE WINES & OLIVES They’ve winged it a bit with their olives at Tintilla Estate and learnt as they’ve gone along, according to John Lusby, sales and accounts manager, and son of estate founder Robert Lusby. “At the time we were planting 22 years ago no-one knew what would do well in the Valley. We went to the Agriculture Department and the response we got

wasn’t encouraging so we decided to plant a few different varieties and give it a go,” he says. The varieties that have done well at Tintilla are the Frantoio, Manzanillo and Kalamata. “You need one Frantoio for every 10 Manzanillos because they cross fertilise,” says John. Just two acres of the 25-acre property have olives on it, all table varieties because the estate doesn’t have the volume to make oil pressing viable. After harvest, their table olives are flushed through daily with fresh water in 200 litre tubs for 30 days to leech out bitterness. They then sit in a 15 per cent salt solution for a week or two and are tested regularly as the fruit absorbs the salt and more is added to maintain the right concentration. “They’re edible after three months in brine but they’ll store indefinitely in a 7 per cent salt solution. This is when the flavourings are added. They’re then left to mature to allow the olives to take on flavours for a month before sale,” he says. Tintilla sells two styles of table olives: an oregano, garlic and lemon peel one and a garlic, chilli and lemon peel. “We also make a tapenade with the olives that don’t look as nice, although WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

PHOTOS ON THIS PAGE: CHRIS ELFES

LEFT TO RIGHT: THE FAMILY RUN BOUTIQUE TINTILLA ESTATE WINES & OLIVES. TINTILLA SELLS TWO VARIETIES OF TABLE OLIVES.

DINE OLIVES OLIVES FEATURE

”I think people’s interest in olive oil and cooking has increased quite markedly over the past few years.” there’s nothing wrong with them. We add capers, Dijon mustard, anchovies and a touch of merlot – blend then pasteurise.” They sell a minimum of 30 jars a week, made weekly to meet demand. Free tastings daily. 725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin, 02 6574 7093, tintilla.com.au

WHISPERING BROOK The Olive Long Table lunch, held each June at Whispering Brook Vineyard, has become a massive drawcard for the property in the past six years. An opportunity to showcase the new season’s oil, the four-course menu is prepared by The Cellar chef Andrew Wright and guest speakers range from olive oil judges to cardiologists extolling its health benefits. “I think people’s interest in olive oil and cooking has increased quite markedly over the past few years and their understanding of the health

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benefits of extra virgin olive oil has contributed to the growth across the sector,” co-owner and winemaker Susan Frazier says. There are about 500 trees spread over five acres at Whispering Brook, with 75 per cent of them Correggiola and Frantoio for oil and the remainder the table varieties, Kalamata and Manzanillo. Slow brining their table olives results in a good firm texture, Susan says. “We then bottle them with red-wine vinegar, chilli and garlic, which is quite delicious.” Oils infused with lemon myrtle or chilli and garlic are also popular. “We sell all our olive products exclusively through our cellar door and everything sells out every year. It’s exactly what we want happening. We can’t keep up with demand.” Free tastings Friday to Sunday. 165 Hill Street, Broke, 02 9818 4126, whispering-brook.com

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: OLIVE HARVEST IS AT ITS PEAK AROUND APRIL; SUSAN FRAZIER & ADAM BELL BEFORE THE WHISPERING BROOK LONG TABLE LUNCH; ADINA EXPERIMENTS WITH A DOZEN OR SO VARIETIES; PETER O’MEARA IN THE ADINA OLIVE GROVE .

DINE OLIVES

There’s little Peter O’Meara doesn’t know about olive growing. He was head of the Hunter Valley Olive Association until he was head-hunted to lead the industry’s national body, the Australian Olive Association. He still grows and processes fruit from about 2000 of his own trees as well as processing for over 100 other growers around the Valley and further afield. There are about 12 types of olive – mainly oil varieties – at his property, as well as several hundred trees of table olives. They all start green and turn black as they age, regardless of variety. “You can get oil out of any variety but those that are table oriented like Manzanillo have very low oil yields. A typical oil variety will give double the yield,” he says. Manzanillo is a traditional olive and is the most popular table variety grown in the Valley, Peter says. “If you want pungent peppery oil styles you pick them early, if you want a milder style of oil you pick them later. Generally, the later you pick them the more oil you get, but it’s milder,” he says. His best seller is Adina’s Premium Extra Virgin olive oil, a blend of peppery and mild styles. “Our customers want a good organoleptic experience – good fragrances and flavour with a bit of pepperiness. That’s the style we seek to produce and normally we get it by blending.”

He says some producers name the varieties they use for oils but has found at Adina that hasn’t been commercially relevant. He focuses on olives for oil because the process is far less labour intensive, but is always experimenting with a dozen or so varieties to see what can be improved. “For oil we harvest the grove, put the fruit in the mill and we’ve got oil. Whereas for the table you have to get rid of the bitterness. “We use a benign but slow process and it can take up to 50 weeks depending on the variety. You have to nurse them

all the way through, check them every week. There’s a lot more physical activity involved with table olives,” he says. In the table olive category, what started as a bin-end proposition seven years ago has become his best-selling line to both wholesale and retail customers. “Our salad blend is a mix of several types. Chefs like the blend because it looks more interesting in their salads than a straight varietal,” he says. Free tastings daily. 492 Lovedale Road, Lovedale, 02 4930 7473, adinavineyard.com.au WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

PHOTOS ON THIS PAGE: CHRIS ELFES

ADINA VINEYARD & OLIVE GROVE

PHOTOS ON THIS PAGE: CHRIS ELFES

DINE OLIVES

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: THE SPECTACULAR VIEW OVER THE EAGLES REST VINES AND OLIVE GROVE TO THE BROKENBACK RANGE; GERALD CHECKING THE RIPENESS OF THE OLIVES.

EAGLES REST This year has seen a bumper olive crop at Eagles Rest thanks to heavy rainfall, with downpours almost matched by the 10,500 litres of oil they produced onsite in the high-tech Pieralisi processing plant. General manager Gerald Williams says the weather made it challenging on the grape front, but the olives lapped it up. It makes sense that he should apply

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his winemaking knowledge to the 5500 olive trees on the property. “I’ve been managing vineyards for 20 years and olives are new to me. I started at Eagles Rest in June 2015, but I’m treating them in a similar fashion to the grapes,” he says. “I’m identifying certain little parcels of trees, picking them and keeping them separate to create a range of oils

with different styles. It’s like the single vineyard principle,” he adds. Eagles Rest specialises in processing olives into high-quality extra virgin olive oil from Frantoio and Manzanillo trees, which were planted about 20 years ago. The olive oil is usually a blend of those two varieties. But this year they got their first crop from the Koroneiki variety, which was planted six to seven years ago. “Koroneiki is supposed to produce some of the best olive oil,” Gerald says. “I’d like to create a range of oils – a straight Manzanillo, a straight Frantoio and a straight Koroneiki – as well as oils from single vineyard parcels.” Free tastings daily. 534 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin, 02 4998 6714, eaglesrestwines.com

DINE FESTIVAL

HUNTER VALLEY WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL ENJOY GOURMET FEASTS AND AWARD-WINNING WINES IN AN IDYLLIC COUNTRY SETTING. TREAT YOURSELF TO a country getaway like no other this May and June, when the region celebrates its exceptional wine and food culture in a series of themed activities and events. Attend one of the signature events, wine and dine with local winemakers and chefs, take part in hands-on cooking classes, vertical tastings and vineyard tours, or enjoy a set-price lunch with a glass of wine at some of the outstanding restaurants. With accommodation and experiences packages for every budget, Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival, sponsored by Wine Selectors, is the perfect winter getaway. Some of the must-do events include:

HUNTER VALLEY WINE, FOOD & FILM FESTIVAL

THU MAY 4–SUN 14 Watch fun and engaging films in the relaxed ambience of the vineyards while enjoying locally made fine wines and gourmet food from local restaurants and providores. aroundhermitage.com.au

BROKE FORDWICH MEET THE GROWERS

SAT MAY 6–SUN 7, SAT MAY 13–SUN 14 Learn about the cycle of the vineyard and olive grove as you wander with local

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growers, who share their knowledge and stories, while you taste wines and sample produce. brokefordwich.com.au

BY THE FIRESIDE WINEMAKER’S SERIES

FRI MAY 12 & SUN MAY 21, SUN JUNE 4 & SUN JUNE 11, SUN JUNE 18 & SUN JUNE 25 Enjoy an intimate fireside four-course meal matched with each winemaker’s best at one of Hunter Valley Resort’s lunches and dinners. Participating wineries include Margan, Piggs Peake, Tintilla, Mistletoe, Tyrrell’s and Lisa McGuigan. hunterresort.com.au

WHISPERING BROOK’S OLIVE LONG TABLE LUNCHEON

SAT JUNE 3 This annual lunch starts with a tour of the olive groves and vineyard, followed by a four-course, olive-inspired lunch by local chef Andy Wright with matching Whispering Brook wines, live music and guest speakers. whispering-brook.com

BURNING OF THE BARREL @ GLANDORE ESTATE

CHEESE LOVER’S FESTIVAL @ SEBEL KIRKTON PARK

SAT JUNE 17–SUN JUNE 18 Following last year’s success this festival will be expanded to two days in 2017 and will boast double the amount of cheese stalls and food trucks, with workshops, a kids’ zone and celebrity chef Nick Haddow from Bruny Island Cheese. 02 9615 9679 cheeseloversfestival.com.au

RIDGEVIEW OCEAN TO PADDOCK WINEMAKER’S DINNER

SAT JUNE 24 Using the onsite kitchen garden and locally sourced products, travel up the Valley from the ocean to the paddock with this seven-course degustation matched with Ridgeview wines. 02 6574 7332. ridgeview.com.au

MEET THE FARMER DINNER @ MARGAN

SAT JUNE 24 Margan Restaurant joins forces with five local food producers to present a delicious four-course dinner featuring the best of Hunter Valley produce and the people behind it.

SAT JUNE 3 Sip Hunter Valley wines and snack on tasty treats while you warm up beside the enormous blazing bonfire that’s lit at sunset at Glandore Estate.

margan.com.au

glandorewines.com.au

SAT JUNE 24 The fifth annual festival

HUNTER VALLEY WINE FESTIVAL

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE LEFT: MEET THE FARMERS AT MARGAN RESTAURANT; WARM UP BESIDE THE BONFIRE AT GLANDORE ESTATE; TAKE A SHIRAZ MASTERCLASS AT DE IULIIS WINES; GET YOUR DAIRY FIX AT THE CHEESE LOVERS FESTIVAL AT SEBEL KIRKTON PARK.

takes place within the picturesque grounds of Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley with more than 60 exhibitors, including wine, food, beer and cider. huntervalleywinefestival.com

HEROES OF THE HUNTER

EVERY DAY IN MAY & JUNE Celebrate local produce and wines with this five-course degustation dinner with matching wines at Redsalt Restaurant in Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley

every day throughout the festival. crowneplazahuntervalley.com.au

PIE & WINE PAIRING EXPERIENCE

EVERY DAY IN MAY & JUNE A gourmet pie is the perfect remedy for the winter blues so head to one of the participating Lovedale restaurants and wineries, and tuck into a special gourmet pie (savoury or sweet) matched to a specific Lovedale wine. lovedalehuntervalley.com.au

DE IULIIS SHIRAZ MASTERCLASSES

EVERY SATURDAY IN MAY & JUNE This Shiraz masterclass will take you on a journey of the origin of Shiraz, its past and present, and you will also get to try a bracket tasting of De Iuliis Shiraz. dewine.com.au

WANT MORE?

FOR THE FULL HUNTER VALLEY WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL PROGRAM, VISIT WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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EXPLORE BREWERY

MADE

IN THE HUNTER DISCOVER A TRUE-BREW LOCAL WHERE YOU CAN ENJOY A QUIET BEER OVERLOOKING THE VINES.

PHOTOS: NICK LAWRENCE

WORDS: BRENDA CHRISTIAN “DRINKING THE MAINSTREAM beer most Aussies buy is like drinking cask wine,” laughs Peter Drayton. He’s a fifth generation descendent of the famous Hunter Valley wine-producing family and a wine drinker at heart, but he’s hopped aboard the craft beer train. “While obviously passionate about good wine, in the past I’ve been a drinker of the commercial mainstream beer, but recently my son Andrew and sonin-law Steven, who are craft beer lovers, convinced me that craft beer is so much better,” says Peter, who has opened a brand-new cellar door and craft brewery at Peter Drayton Wines, part of the Ironbark Hill complex. “We wanted to create a space with a cellar door, bar, brewhouse and beer garden, where you can chill out and enjoy a glass of wine or a cold brew and finger food,” Peter explains. “It’s not fancy or flash dining – what we’re after is casual cafe fare that you can eat without a knife and fork, like chicken wings, ribs, burgers and pizza.”

Lee Wilton, a local senior radiation therapist, is the master brewer ably assisted by Peter’s son Andrew, with local chef David Warren from Cafe Enzo in charge of the food. “Lee is passionate about beer and has been brewing for 15 years using the same system we have – the Braumeister – a

German brewing system designed for craft microbreweries,” Peter says. “Craft beer is all about small-batch brewing. We brew in 700-litre batches and the brewhouse has six beers on tap, as well as an apple and pear cider. “There are three main elements of beer – water, grain and hops – all other flavourings are secondary,” Peter says. “At Ironbark Hill we use 100 per cent rainwater collected on the property and put it through a filtration system so it’s totally pure. People say our Pilsner is the best they’ve tasted and I think it’s due to the water.” There are three core beers (see below) but they also experiment with other brews, including a Schwartzbier – a dark, medium-bodied German-style beer with flavours and aromas of dark chocolate and coffee – and a Hazelnut Brown, an Englishstyle brown ale with a rich nutty aroma and flavour with hints of biscuit and toffee. A lager is also in the pipeline and they plan to brew seasonal “funky” (sour) type beers. As well as beers on tap, there are tasting paddles, takeaway four-pack bottles and two-litre refillable Growlers. Seems like the Hunter Valley is fast becoming known for its reds, whites and brews! Visit daily at 694 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin, ironbarkhillbrewery.com.au

3 THIRST QUENCHERS

AMERICAN PALE ALE

PILSNER

SUMMER ALE

A light-coloured APA with classic, tropical hoppy characters and a medium to dry finish. $7

A medium-bodied German-style Pilsner with floral aromas and a crisp finish. $7

Light hoppy flavours and aromas of sweet tropical fruits and a hint of citrus, with a dry light finish. $7 WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

Hunter Valley Chocolate, a Valley icon, Family owned and operated for seventeen years! Our Boutique Chocolate and Fudge Factory offers a unique range of Chocolate and Chocolate products plus more than 30 flavours of Fudge… A “taste tempting” range of locally produced gourmet products… A Coffee Lounge with indoor/outdoor seating… and More!

Our continued success can be attributed to the four pillars of the business… - PASSION - PERSISTANCE– DEDICATON --EXPERIENCE Come visit and … “Taste the Difference”!

Open 7 Days 9am - 5pm Factory/Store - 2320 Broke Road Pokolbin NSW 2320 @ Peterson House - Broke Road Pokolbin NSW 2320 Shop 5 - Hunter Valley Gardens Pokolbin NSW 2320 admin@hvchocolate.com.au www.hvchocolate.com.au

Ph:(02)4998 6999

EXPLORE PROFILE

COMING UP ROSES MEET A LOCAL WHO CAME TO THE REGION TO BUY A FEW BOTTLES AND BOUGHT AN ENTIRE CELLAR DOOR! WORDS: RICK ALLEN

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LES AND THERESE KRAMER don’t do things in half measures, but in July 2014 they outdid themselves. They were visiting the Hunter Valley from Sydney to chill out and buy a few bottles to top up their dwindling wine collection. But they didn’t just buy a few bottles or a few cases for that matter. They bought the whole cellar door! “It was day two of our visit and we drove down Wilderness Road and noticed the ‘For Sale’ sign at Emma’s Cottage. I said to Les, ‘this looks nice’ and he said ‘no’. But a couple of days later we were back in Sydney and he said maybe we should take a look at the contract. And here we are.” We’re sitting outside on the deck at Emma’s Cottage, overlooking the pergola and the rose garden, which is in full bloom – dark reds, pinks, yellow and white. The only noise is the birds in the trees. To be fair, it should be pointed out that Therese and Les had dreamed of owning a tourism business. The big surprise was that it all happened when it did, and as suddenly as it did. “We weren’t officially looking at the time,” Therese recalls. “We had decided to wait a couple of years until the kids had finished school, so I think it surprised both of us.” There’s more to Emma’s Cottage then a cellar door; it’s not a sit-back-and-put-your-feet-up kind of operation. Firstly, there

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is the accommodation (four cottages), plus an art gallery, cellar door, restaurant and the rose garden. Then there are the vines to tend – 3.5 hectares of grapes planted to seven varieties. Chilling out? Don’t think so. Oh, and there’s a cemetery smack bang in the middle of her 12.5 hectares, but we’ll come to that shortly. Two years up the track and Therese wouldn’t change a thing – cemetery included. Let’s start with the location. It’s as beautiful as it is peaceful. Emma’s Cottage is on the quieter Lovedale side of Wine Country, right at the end of the aptly named Wilderness Road. Think of rolling hills, olive groves, a couple of other boutique wineries, lots of kangaroos ... and not much traffic. “I remember when we first arrived, a plane flew over and it seemed so out of place,” she said. “We both laughed because in Sydney we were at Petersham, which was right under the flight path.” They produce about 550 cases of wine a year, made by David Hook, one of the Valley’s respected winemakers – Chardonnay, Semillon and Verdelho in the whites, and Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Shiraz in the reds. “Right from the start we knew we had plenty of work to do,” Therese says. “And one of those things was the wine. We liked

EXPLORE PROFILE

CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: THE TWO-STOREY COTTAGE OVERLOOKS THE VINES; THE WINES ARE AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY FROM THE CELLAR DOOR; A BEAUTIFUL ROSE GARDEN SETTING.

“When we first arrived, a plane f lew over and it seemed so out of place.” them that first time, but we wanted to improve them. We’ve followed David’s advice and are leaving the grapes on the vine a bit longer. We’re after elegant, tasty wines.” The signs are promising. They’re starting to pick up medals in wine shows and their mailing list has grown. And at last year’s annual Lovedale Long Lunch – the biggest weekend on the Lovedale wine calendar – they had 2300 people packed in on the Saturday and had to close the gates. They even made a special Semillon Verdelho blend for the occasion, which proved a massive hit with the punters. The art gallery, which flows from the cellar door (where there are also artworks on display) was up and running when they purchased it and Therese loves it. “I love looking at art. It doesn’t matter if it’s expensive or not. I know what I like. I’ll buy from an op-shop if I like it. I will champion local artists as much as I can, but most importantly I just want good art on my walls. I have room for about 30 pieces.” After jazzing up their website and the winery’s online presence, Therese’s next mission was the restaurant. And she’s excited by the new restaurant venture. “There’s not much through-traffic, so I knew we needed something that made people want to come here,” Therese says. “And food can do that.” Enter Alana Downie and Michael Robinson. Michael was head chef at Margan’s renowned restaurant in Broke and has worked alongside some of the biggest names in the industry, such as Justin North at Sydney’s two-hatted Becasse.

“I remember one day I was in a meeting with other Lovedale wine and business people at Zaih’s Cafe and when the food came out I thought, ‘I hope it tastes as good as it looks’ and it did. It was gobsmackingly good, in fact, and straight away I was trying to come up with a way to get Michael to Emma’s Cottage.” When Therese heard they were not going to extend their lease at the cafe, she was quick to act. Now Zaih’s has a new home, with Michael Robinson executive chef and a head chef appointed on his recommendation. Which brings us, as promised, to the cemetery. “It’s owned by the Archdiocese of Newcastle and is essentially an island on our land,” she explains. “The original owner of this land was Joseph Broadbent Holmes, who planted some of the very earliest vines here. He’s buried in the cemetery. So is Charles King, the original president of the Hunter Valley Wine Association. And Murray Tyrrell is here … these are major players in the history of the region. I love that connection.” But how does she feel about having a cemetery as the first thing she sees when she walks out the door of a morning? “At least the neighbours are quiet,” she says and bursts into a laugh. Visit Emma’s Cottage at 438 Wilderness Road, Lovedale hunteraccommodation.com.au WANT MORE?

DISCOVER OTHER CELLAR DOORS AND ACCOMMODATION IN THE HUNTER VALLEY AT WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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at The Vintage Hunter Valley Vintage Drive Pokolbin NSW 2320

Hotel 02 4998 2500 | Golf 02 4998 2610 | Spa 02 4998 2504 | Restaurant 02 4998 2613 www.chateauelan.com.au

EXPLORE WEDDINGS

I DID IT MY WAY TWO BRIDES REVEAL WHY THEY SAID ‘I DO’ IN THE HUNTER VALLEY.

PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

WORDS: ALLISON TAIT

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EXPLORE WEDDINGS

AT THE END of every year, the wedding industry puts together lists of trends for the year ahead. In 2016 it was predicted that weddings would, among other things: be casual, outdoors and relaxed, follow their own rules and have a focus on nature. Is it any wonder then, that the Hunter Valley is such a popular wedding destination for locals and visitors? “It’s first and foremost the stunning location that brings couples to the Hunter Valley for their weddings,” says Kate Muller, a celebrant from Spark Ceremonies. “It’s very much a beautiful place for people to get married. Plus the food and wine make it hard to beat.” Kate finds that many of her couples are from Sydney and have shared an important milestone – weekends away or a proposal – in the Hunter Valley, so they have a sense of connection with the area. “I’m getting busier and busier,” agrees celebrant Jason Thomas. “I would say that half my customers are from Sydney and the other half are a mix of locals, near-locals and people who are eloping.”

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“ It’s first and foremost the stunning location that brings couples to the Valley.” Both celebrants agree the word ‘relaxed’ comes up often when couples are discussing the type of wedding ceremony they want. “It’s the word I hear most often,” says Kate. “They want relaxed, personal ceremonies and they want a real sense of everyone who’s there coming together and being involved within the ceremony.” Jason agrees. “They want informal and outdoors,” he says. “I’m definitely seeing a reduction in people wanting drawn-out ceremonies or religious content. They prefer a more modern approach and will write their own vows, rather than using traditional ones.” When it comes to following their own rules, Jason has had a few unusual requests. “I did [a ceremony] recently where they got married on the groom’s 70th birthday,” he says. “It was a surprise

wedding and I lowered the bride down on a forklift to the Star Wars theme.” Kate is seeing a trend in incorporating wine boxes into the wedding ceremony. “The couple buys a bottle of wine or two – something that will age well if stored correctly – then get special boxes made to house the wine, name and date, and incorporate a note; a copy of their vows, a new love note, what they’re hoping they’ll feel like when they read it. “The box is sealed as part of the ceremony and then, on an important anniversary, they take the time to open the wine, drink it together and read the letters they wrote to each other on their wedding day.” As to the future, well, trends may change, but certain things remain constant. “Wine and love go together so well,” says Kate.

BRIDE 1:

DESTINATION WEDDING SYDNEYSIDERS SIAN KAVEH, 28, AND DARIUS KAVEH, 27, WANTED A DESTINATION WEDDING WHICH WAS CLOSE ENOUGH THAT FAMILY AND FRIENDS COULD ALL AFFORD TO GO.

CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: THE BRIDESMAIDS PRIMPING SIAN BEFORE THE CEREMONY; A ROMANTIC MOMENT BENEATH THE ARBOUR FOR DARIUS AND SIAN; DANCING THE NIGHT AWAY WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS; DARIUS AND THE FOUR GROOMSMEN WALKING THROUGH THE HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS.

PHOTOS: CHRIS ELFES

“We picked the Hunter Valley Gardens as there were plenty of places within the venue to get married and they were all beautiful in themselves,” says Sian. “Also, Darius loves Harrigan’s [Irish Pub] and he was sold straight away, knowing we would be staying there for a few days. “We wanted to make our wedding intimate, so that everyone could talk to us and we could both have an awesome day. In the end, we had around 70 people in total and it was a great day, exceeding anything I could have imagined. “It took just under two years to plan the wedding. I wanted to do it that way as I didn’t want us to feel stressed trying to get it all together, plus we had just purchased our first home, so financially it made more sense to extend the planning time. “It wasn’t difficult at all to plan from a distance. The wedding coordinator, Kylie Berryman, from Hunter Valley Gardens, was amazing and she helped so much. I could not recommend her, her team and the Gardens more for a wedding. The brochure they gave us included a list of recommended suppliers. Kylie recommended Chris Elfes from Photography on Hermitage for the photography and he was wonderful. He was so patient with us on the wedding day and very accommodating. “Google was also very helpful. I found our celebrant David Courtney that way. He wears the traditional kilt attire for weddings. Darius is half-Scottish so he was sold as soon as I mentioned that! “Having all of our family and friends in one place, enjoying the celebrations, was totally awesome. I had such a fun day, from start to finish.”

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BRIDE 2:

CLOSE TO HOME MICHELLE DOOLEY, 40, AND JOE DOOLEY, 35, ARE BRANXTON LOCALS. THEY MET AT THE LOCAL GOLF CLUB AND GOT MARRIED CLOSE TO HOME IN THE VALLEY. “It’s so beautiful here,” says Michelle. “Why would we go anywhere else? I didn’t want the stress of organising a destination wedding when we’ve got our own backyard to play in. “We had our ceremony, our reception and our photographs all at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley. We didn’t want the added stress of organising transport from the ceremony to the reception and we didn’t want our guests to have to travel. We wanted it all in one location. “Funnily enough, we’d never been there before. We went for a drive and were blown away as soon as we drove in. When we got to the foyer, it felt as though we were nowhere near our hometown, like we were in a different world. We fell in love with it. “That was about 18 months ago. We’d had a two-year engagement and were in

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: TOASTING THE HAPPY COUPLE; STEPPING OUT AS HUSBAND AND WIFE; PICTURESQUE LAKESIDE LOCATION; THE NEWLYWEDS’ GETAWAY CAR – A GOLF BUGGY!

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EXPLORE WEDDINGS

WEDDING BLISS Three more dream wedding venues for your Wine Country wedding. 1. Estate Tuscany A popular wedding venue for couples who want everything in one spot – ceremony, outdoor or indoor reception and accommodation with 36 rooms for guests to stay. Plus it also boasts sweeping views of the vineyards and Brokenback Range as a backdrop.

PHOTOS: HUNTER VALLEY IMAGES

“ It felt as though we were nowhere near our homet own, like we were in a different world. We fell in love with it.” no rush, taking our time. Once we found the right place, we got started. I wanted an intimate, elegant wedding. We had 49 guests on the day, all family and friends. “I didn’t have too many expectations, I just wanted the weather to be nice, and it was – a beautiful day with a slight breeze. “The day was more than anything I could have expected. It ran so smoothly and everything was so relaxed. The wedding planner at Crowne Plaza did a lot of the organising there, then I chose the flowers, photographer, celebrant, cake and dresses myself. We went to a lot of wedding expos, so I knew what I wanted. “We found our photographers – Andrea

and Gary from Hunter Valley Images – through an expo. We’d seen their work there and thought it was beautiful, then, when we spoke with them, they were lovely. I really liked the fact that they were husband and wife, familiar with the Hunter Valley and worked really well as a team. “I think one of the best things about the day was that we took the time to stop and look around, to take in the day together.” WANT MORE?

DISCOVER MORE WEDDING SERVICES ON PAGE 133 OR GO TO WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

2. Hunter Valley Resort Another Wine Country wedding favourite, which offers the bride and groom complimentary wedding night accommodation. This family owned resort boasts two picturesque outdoor ceremony locations and two reception rooms, with 35 rooms and cottages scattered around the 70-acre estate. 3. Margan Winery & Restaurant This is numero uno for discerning couples who appreciate awardwinning wines and fine dining (awarded one SMH Good Food Guide chef’s hat). The romantic setting also ticks the boxes with outdoor ceremonies amongst the vines with the Brokenback Range beyond and the restaurant or atmospheric candlelit barrel room options for the reception. WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

S AY D N 7 TO N N PE R O HO T

THE BIG UGG BOOTS Leisurely 30 minute drive from the vineyards.

DAILY TOURS MONDAY - FRIDAY 11AM, NO BOOKINGS REQUIRED. SHOP Browse Mortels large range of sheepskin & Australiana products

MUSEUM Be fascinated with Australia’s rich sheepskin history & Mortels 60 years of manufacturing.

CAFÉ Sit, relax, and enjoy delicious meals & coffee at Mortels Café.

FACTORY TOURS Watch, hear, feel and smell the real workings of an UGG boot factory on a fully guided tour.

Since 1958

Directions

mortels.com.au

Hunter Valley NSW

MORTELS SHEEPSKIN FACTORY

Opening Hours:

1 Weakleys Drive, Thornton NSW

Monday - Friday

8:30am - 5pm

Saturday & Sunday

9am - 2pm

Public Holidays

Closed

(+61) 02 4966 0990

  

www.mortels.com.au

EXPLORE FAMILY FUN HORSING AROUND ON THE CAROUSEL AT CROWNE PLAZA HUNTER VALLEY.

PLAY FEST HERE’S THE INSIDE SCOOP ON 10 TOP FAMILY FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES … AND SOME KID-FRIENDLY CELLAR DOORS TOO! WORDS: DANIEL HONAN

WE ALL KNOW the Hunter Valley is a great place for a romantic weekend away, tasting the region’s premium wines and dining at some of Australia’s best restaurants, but did you know the area also has a ton of fun family friendly activities for kids – and parents – of all ages? For lovers of a steam-powered past there’s the Richmond Vale Railway Museum near Kurri Kurri, or for something a little faster, fly-by the Luskintyre Airfield and Aviation Museum. You could also take a picnic in the quiet surrounds of Lake St Clair, near Singleton, or make some noise with the monkeys and meerkats at Hunter Valley Zoo in Nulkaba. There’s plenty more to see and do besides wine in Wine Country! Here are a few more ways that families can make the most of their visit to the Hunter Valley. WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

EXPLORE FAMILY FUN 1. KIDZONE @ CROWNE PLAZA HUNTER VALLEY Kids of all ages are catered for in the Crowne Plaza Kidzone. All aboard the colourful toy train that winds its way around the grounds, stopping at all stations throughout the resort. Hop off the locomotive and jump onto the carousel’s beautifully painted horses that whirl around and around as the music plays. Finally, head in to the games room for some exciting arcade action. There’s also a teen lounge for the cool kids to chill out in, and the Water Dragons Kids Club will keep the littler ones safe and happy while Mum and Dad relax nearby. crowneplazahuntervalley.com.au

2. HORSING AROUND Horses have a long history in the Hunter Valley and when Wine Country is soaked in sunshine there’s nothing better than getting outdoors and seeing the region’s natural beauty on horseback. Saddle up and take a gentle ride between the vineyards and the bush with Hunter Valley Horses, Chapman Valley Horse Riding or Hunter Valley Horse Riding (pictured left), which also caters for little ones with a tractor hayride (or Santa sleigh ride at Xmas). Kids can help feed the farm animals along the way too. huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au chapmanvalleyhorseriding.com huntervalleycarriages.com.au

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EXPLORE FAMILY FUN

3. AQUA GOLF AND PUTT-PUTT If there’s a few promising golf pros in the family, no matter what their age, the Aqua Golf and Putt-Putt, next door to the Hunter Valley Gardens, is a great way to spend some time with the family. Challenge the kids to 18 holes of putt-putt on the miniature greens and fairways, then let Dad prove he’s better than The Shark by whacking a few floating golf balls into the massive lake and, hopefully, into one of the nets to win a prize. The view of the Brokenback Range alone is worth the price of admission and a few hours of top family fun. golftothemax.com.au

5. KURRI KURRI MURALS A great place to stop on your way into Wine Country is the ‘gateway to the Hunter Valley’, the historic town of Kurri Kurri with its many murals. You may have driven through once or twice before and noticed the colourful paintings on the side of many buildings around town. There are more than 50 magnificent murals to admire here, each showcasing the history and heritage of the Hunter Valley, from Aboriginal Dreaming and colonial timber milling, to night-time campfires and rock ‘n’ roll drive-in movies. Scenes are scattered throughout the district and are best viewed on a guided walking tour, which runs seven days a week. kurrikurri.com

4. HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS Family holidays have never been more fun wandering around the Hunter Valley Gardens. With 60 acres of beautifully tended gardens to explore, children will be amazed by the sights, colours and smells of the thousands of flowers, trees and other plants on display. Be sure to visit Alice, Humpty Dumpty, and other life-sized children’s characters in the

Storybook Garden. You can jump on the Hunter Valley Gardens train to get around faster, or take a slow stroll from place to place at your own pace. Check the events calendar for special school holiday events, such as the Giant Easter Egg Hunt, Snow Time in the Gardens and the Christmas Lights Spectacular for some amazing family friendly fun! huntervalleygardens.com.au WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

EXPLORE FAMILY FUN

6. SINGLETON PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS For a cheap, cheerful and truly family friendly experience, head beyond the borders of Wine Country to the parks and playgrounds of Singleton. Rose Point Park is located right by the steady stream of the Hunter River and has plenty of

space for the kids to run riot, kick a football, play tag, or ride their bikes around. There’s a giant sundial up on the hill and the park has great barbecue facilities too. Townsend Park is another great spot to stop and take a break and let the kids stretch their legs on the old Army tank nearby. There’s plenty of

shade to sit under and enjoy a picnic, or make tracks to the Visitor Information Centre for refreshments and supplies. For a little bit of permanency, take a quick 30-minute trip to Lake St Clair, set up camp and go sailing, kayaking, fishing or swimming. singleton.nsw.gov.au

7. SEGWAY TOURS If horsepower isn’t your thing, consider standing on your own two feet and powering through the gorgeous Hunter Valley scenery on a Segway. NSW Segway Tours run all-year-round and will take you and the kids on an exciting journey through the back roads and paddocks of Pokolbin and surrounds. You’ll see plenty of wildlife along the way, including kangaroos and wallabies and maybe even a goanna or wombat. Kids must be eleven or older and some degree of fitness is required. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the wide smiles on everyone’s faces. nswsegway.com.au

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EXPLORE FAMILY FUN 8. BALLOONING If you wake up early enough you might hear the rushing sound of liquid propane mixing with air and igniting a flame that bursts into the mouth of a hot-air balloon, sending its passengers skyward. For a special treat the whole family can be part of, take them hot-air ballooning with one of the Hunter Valley’s professional pilots. Balloon Aloft, Balloon Safaris and Wine Country Ballooning all offer a magical experience high above the vines, amongst the clouds. Rise with the sun and drift peacefully above Wine Country, taking in unrivalled views across the whole Hunter Valley. balloonaloft.com balloonsafaris.com.au winecountryballooning.com.au

“Rise with the sun and drift peacefully above Wine Country, taking in unrivalled views across the whole Hunter Valley.” WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

EXPLORE FAMILY FUN

KID-FRIENDLY CELLAR DOORS Don’t miss out on tasting the best wines the Hunter Valley has to offer. These child-friendly cellar doors will keep the little ones occupied while Mum and Dad are busy with the important stuff.

9. HUNTER TRIKES After you’ve landed safely back on earth you might want to pick up the pace. Hunter Trikes have been riding bikes for more than 30 years and offer a number of fun, fast-paced adventures for Mum, Dad and the kids – anyone from eight to 98 is welcome. Tour around Wine Country in style, with a touch of speed, on half-day and evening cruises, or go on a Valley Express Tour that will take you from Lovedale, to Pokolbin, to Broke and back again. Hunter Trikes have connections with over 150 vineyards and wineries, as well as breweries, cheese factories, chocolate shops, cafes and more, so you and the family can see and do it all. huntertrikes.com.au

Mistletoe Wines: every Saturday and during school holidays, the owners’ youngest grand-daughter, 13-year-old Natane, provides free child-minding, taking kids on a tour of the sculpture garden, feeding fish in the dam and playing soccer. Also has a kids’ school desk, pencils and colouring-in books.

RidgeView Wines: totem tennis, lawns to play on, giant chess, fish to feed in the dams, walking trails and a kids’ menu in the restaurant.

Scarborough Wine Co: family friendly with lots of outdoor space as well as Jenga, checkers, a big blackboard on the hill and kids’ activity packs.

Tinklers Wines: large grassy area with picnic tables out front, colouring-in sheets and the whole family can pick their own table grapes from December to March.

Misty Glen Wines: has a kids’ zone on the deck with toys and games, a large grassed area to play in and two friendly dogs who love kids.

Tulloch Wines: stocks colouring-in books to keep the kids occupied.

Glandore Estate Wines: stocks colouring-in books, totem tennis, and balls and play toys for small children.

Roche Estate: has two cellar doors with loads of lawn out front, plus it’s home to the Hunter Valley Gelato Company in the Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop, with 40 varieties of gelato in store.

Tintilla Estate Wines: has a toy box and colouring-in books.

For contact details and more cellar doors go to page 82.

10. JUMPING CASTLE If your kids are full of nervous energy and regularly bounce off the walls, take them to Potters Hotel Brewery Resort on Sundays from noon, where they can bounce off the inflatable walls of the free jumping castle. There’s also a fully fenced kids’ playground. Once they’ve worked up a hunger there’s a kids’ menu and activity packs to keep them entertained while you eat indoors at the brasserie, or outdoors in the beer garden. pottershbr.com.au WANT MORE?

DISCOVER MORE FAMILY FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS IN THE HUNTER VALLEY AT WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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James Estate: vast space outside the restaurant and cafe for children to play, with colouring-in books on offer.

LET NATANE MIND THE KIDS WHILE YOU ENJOY A TASTE AT MISTLETOE WINES.

WINTER HOLIDAY FUN

3 HU WEE GE KS

#SnowTime

ICE SKATING, SNOW PLAY, TOBOGGANING AND MORE! 24 JUNE - 16 JULY 2017

For information and online tickets - hvg.com.au Broke Road Pokolbin - Ph: 02 4998 4000 Accommodation available at harrigans.com.au This event will not open in adverse weather conditions. Admission charges apply. Program subject to change. For your safety and comfort you must be at least 120cm to ride the HVG Super Slide.

Honey Tasting Honey & Bee Giftware Honey Cosmetics Honey Health Products Taste The Experience

WHAT’S ON A round-up of local events and activities you won’t want to miss.

MARCH

A LITTLE BIT OF ITALY IN BROKE

KURRI KURRI NOSTALGIA FESTIVAL

FRI 7–SUN 9 APRIL An Italian-inspired weekend of festivities, food, wine and fun hosted by 10 venues throughout Broke Fordwich. Take a cooking class, workshop or demonstration, savour olive oil and olive tastings in the grove, challenge a friend to a game of bocce, or simply kick back and dine on pizza or pasta and sip Sangiovese and Barbera or espresso.

FRI 24–SUN 26 A fantastic line-up of rock ‘n’ roll bands, rockabilly dancers, classic cars, hot rods and fashion and market stalls. kurrikurrinostalgiafestival. com.au

RED HOT SUMMER TOUR 2017 SAT 25 The biggest Aussie rock headliners will be performing at Roche Estate with a stellar bill featuring Icehouse, James Reyne, Daryl Braithwaite, Shannon Noll, Dragon and Pseudo Echo. ticketmaster.com.au

APRIL A DAY ON THE GREEN – CYNDI LAUPER & BLONDIE SAT 1 In a world first, Blondie and Cyndi Lauper are teaming up and kicking off their Australian tour at Bimbadgen Estate. Dance along to a stream of hits from two of the most influential women in rock, with special guests Alex Lahey, Montaigne and The Clouds. adayonthegreen.com.au

KURRI COAL FACE PEDAL SUN 2 The third annual Kurri Coalface Pedal charity ride

italyinbroke.com.au

will start and finish at Pelaw Main School from 8am and caters for families as well as those looking for a bit of a challenge. It’s a bush ride with a mixture of tracks and distances, and raises greatly needed funds for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service. rescuehelicopter.com.au

TUFF TRUCK CHALLENGE FRI 7–SUN 9 A three-day 4WD competition event near Broke with firewords on Saturday night and kids’ activities too. tufftruck.com.au

RIDGEVIEW AUTUMN IN SEASON CELEBRATION SAT 8 Enjoy a four-course dinner using the best seasonal produce with canapes and a glass of RidgeView bubbles from 6.30pm. $65pp, or $85pp with matching wines. Bookings on 02 6574 7332. ridgeview. com.au

HOPE ROCKS SAT 8 See Aussie legend John Farnham perform in the heart of Wine Country at Hope Estate along with Jon Stevens, Shannon Noll and The Black Sorrows. ticketmaster.com.au

HUNTER VALLEY STEAMFEST SAT 8–SUN 9 Australia’s premier festival of steam attracts tens of thousands of people each year with historic steam train trips, vintage machinery displays and demonstrations, live music, vintage car displays, food and market stalls, kids’ activities and more. steamfest.com.au

THE MAIL RUN CHARITY BIKE RIDE SUN 9 Join hundreds of other cyclists in this fun event that starts and finishes in Singleton. There’s a 100km course, 65km course and easier 40km and 20km races. All courses take you through the picturesque agricultural landscape of the fertile Hunter Valley along lightly trafficked, tarred roads. 0422 374 252. themailrun.org WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

EXPLORE CALENDAR music, arts and learning at the Hunter Valley’s most affordable and unique Festival. bulgabeatsfestival.com

SINGLETON HIGH AUTO FEST SAT 6 Show off your vehicle or participate in the various competitions at Singleton High School, with market stalls, great food along with live music.

EASTER EGG HUNT @ HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS FRI 14–MON 17 Hunter Valley Gardens will be hosting a fantastic program of activities, entertainment and prizes over the Easter Long Weekend. On Easter Saturday and Sunday, join the Easter Bunny to search for coloured eggs in the Giant Easter Egg Hunt. Every child will receive a gift of Easter chocolate at the completion of the hunt. Search for the giant golden egg and win a family annual pass! There will be one giant egg to find per day. huntervalleygardens.com.au

THE GUM BALL MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL FRI 21–SUN 23 The Gum Ball Music and Arts Festival is back for the twelfth time. This independent boutique music and arts festival is set in secluded bushland at Dashville on Johnston Family Estate. BYO booze for this laid-back festival with onsite camping and live music from Australian and international artists.

winecountry.com.au

LOVE IN THE VINES SUN 30 APRIL You'll be greeted with a complimentary glass of sparkling, canapes and a goodie bag on arrival at this wedding spectacular at Lindeman’s Estate. It features more than 80 wedding specialists, fashion parades, free pamper pavilion, workshops and seminars, music, local wine and produce – everything you need to create your dream Hunter Valley wedding. loveinthevines.com.au

SINGLETON FESTIVAL SAT 29 APR–SUN 14 MAY Singleton Festival celebrates all things food, wine, music and art. It’s a biennial event, with a smaller ‘mini’ festival being held in the years in between. 2017 will be one of the major event years and Singleton’s seventh Festival.

with a series of themed activities throughout the Valley. See page 46 or winecountry.com.au for more info.

HUNTER VALLEY WINE, FOOD & FILM FESTIVAL

winecountry.com.au

THU 4–SUN 14. Part of the Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival – see page 46 for details.

THE GRAPE ESCAPE

BULGA BEATS FESTIVAL SAT 6–SUN 7 Bulga Beats is back for its third year. Get keen for a weekend of camping, dance,

dashville.com.au

SAT 29 Head to Hope Estate to see some of Australia's most loved bands including Hoodoo Gurus, You Am I, Ratcat, Steve Kilbey of The Church, The Allniters, GANGgajang and The Kids. ticketmaster.com.au

CESSNOCK STOMP FESTIVAL

MAY

SUN 23 This festival is a celebration of the city’s people, culture and lifestyle, featuring a mix of entertainment and experiences with market stalls offering local wine, gourmet food, arts and crafts, and more. cessnockstompfestival.com.au

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

HUNTER VALLEY WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL MAY 1–JUNE 30 This muchanticipated event showcases the region’s diverse wine and food culture over a two-month period

GRAPEST 5K RUN SAT 6 Love running and wine? Enjoy a 5km or 10km sunset run through the vineyards of the Hunter Valley followed by a 1km wine-tasting walk through Lovedale, with four wine-tasting stations to cool down at. A live band will play at the after party. centauroutdoorevents.com.au

STONEHURST ROCK ’N BLUES REVIVAL SAT 6 Celebrate the Rock ’n Blues Revival in the poplar grove at Stonehurst Cedar Creek in the Wollombi Valley. Bring your rugs and picnic hampers for an afternoon of live music, good food, award-winning Stonehurst Wines and great company. From 11am to 5pm. Tickets $30 adults, children free. 02 4998 1576. stonehurst.com.au

EST. 1978

W I N E RY | C E L L A R D O O R | V I N E YA R D S

OPEN 7 DAYS

132 Lovedale Rd Lovedale I 02 4990 4526 I wines@allandalewinery.com.au I www.allandalewinery.com.au

EXPLORE CALENDAR

JUNE

UPPER HUNTER WINE AND FOOD AFFAIR SAT 6 Enjoy free live bands, entertainment for the children, street theatre, food and Upper Hunter wines at Denman’s annual street party.

OLIVE LONG TABLE LUNCHEON SAT 3 Part of the Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival – see page

upperhunterwineandfood

46 for details.

affair.com.au

BURNING OF THE BARREL

BROKE FORDWICH MEET THE GROWERS

SAT 3 Part of the Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival – see page 46 for details.

CHEESE LOVERS FESTIVAL SAT 17–SUN 18 Part of the Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival – see page 46 for details.

for details.

THU 11 Watch Catherine Alcorn perform the story of Christine McVie from Fleetwood Mac at the Cessnock Performing Arts Centre. cessnockperformingartscentre. com.au

LOVEDALE LONG LUNCH SAT 20–SUN 21 Seven wineries team up with local Hunter Valley restaurants for a weekend of fine wine, gourmet food and live entertainment. lovedalelonglunch.com.au

PORT TO PORT THU 25–SUN 28 This annual four-day mountain bike race is as scenic as you can get, starting from Port Stephens, through the Hunter Valley and on to Newcastle and Lake Macquarie. porttoportmtb.com

A TASTE OF WOLLOMBI

PHOTO: TYSON MOWARIN

GO YOUR OWN WAY

CORANDERRK THU 22 This special production by ILBIJERRI Theatre Company & Belvoir recreates an 1881 Inquiry when the men and women at Coranderrk Aboriginal Reserve fought for a better pact between the country’s oldest and newest inhabitants.

food. hvg.com.au

PIGSTY IN JULY SAT 1 A one-day, adults-only music event in secluded bushland at Belford offering boutique beverages, warming winter food and 10 bands. dashville.com.au

WINTER ROSE PRUNING @ HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS MON 17–MON 31 Ever wondered how it’s done? There are thousands of roses to prune

com.au

HUNTER VALLEY WINE FESTIVAL SAT 24 Part of the Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival – see page 46 for details.

SAT 24 Part of the Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival – see page

visitwollombi.com.au

46 for details.

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

SAT 24 JUN–SUN 16 JUL Snow Time in the Garden is a great opportunity for families and friends to get together and experience an icy wonderland over three huge weeks, including the winter school holidays. Chill out on the giant ice-skating rink, ice toboggan and build a snowman in the man-made Snow Play Zone. This day and night event also has games, entertainment, warm beverages and hearty

JULY

cessnockperformingartscentre.

SUN MAY 28 & SUN JUNE 25 Meet local vigerons and artisans while sampling their fine wines and local produce including jams, olives, cured meats, cheese and more.

SNOW TIME @ HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS

PHOTO: HEIDRUN LOHR

SAT 6–SUN 7 & SAT 13–SUN 14 Part of the Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival – see page 46

RIDGEVIEW OCEAN TO PADDOCK DEGUSTATION

ERTH’S PREHISTORIC AQUARIUM SAT 1 JULY Children are invited to step into the action for this show. Performers will invite a small number of carefully selected young divers to join them on their quest to the bottom of the ocean. The lucky kids will get to ‘swim’ with an amazing array of aquatic creatures from bygone eras. cessnockperformingartscentre.com.au

Single Vineyard wines from four of Australia’s premium growing regions - Hunter Valley, Orange, Wrattonbully & Coonawarra Cellar Door open daily

Pet friendly

Serving award winning hand roasted single origin coffee

OPEN 7 DAYS Pepper Tree Wines & Contango Espresso Roasters 86 Halls Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 P 02 4909 7100 F 02 4998 7746 facebook/PepperTreeWines

twitter/PepperTreeWine

instagram/peppertreewines

www.peppertreewines.com.au

Celebrating 32 Years of Excellence in Wine GOLD 2016 London International Wine Challenge GOLD 2016 Sydney International Wine Competition TROPHY Best ‘Named Vineyard’ Semillon 2015 Hunter Valley Wine Show TWO TROPHIES 2015 Hunter Valley Boutique Wine Show

Family owned since 1985. Our exclusive and exceptional range is only available through our cellar door and selected outlets. 462 DeBeyers Road Pokolbin | Cellar Door 10am to 5pm daily 02 4998 7754 | info@mcleishhunterwines.com.au | www.mcleishhunterwines.com.au

EXPLORE CALENDAR

here, so let Hunter Valley Gardens show you how! With demonstrations and talks throughout the day, you can be sure you’ll be caring for your roses correctly. Don’t forget to pick up your complimentary rose cutting on departure. hvg.com.au

HUNTER VALLEY WINERY RUNNING FESTIVAL SUN 16 A unique running festival through the grapevines, including a full marathon and a 10km fun run, kicking off and finishing at The Vintage on Vintage Drive, Pokolbin. wineryrun.com

CHRISTMAS IN JULY @ RIDGEVIEW SAT 29 Join the RidgeView crew to celebrate everything Christmas including a special visit from you know who. Enjoy a three-course Christmasinspired dinner with paired wines ($80pp or $65pp without wines). A children’s menu is available at $20pp and includes a main, dessert and a gift. Bookings on 02 6574 7332. ridgeview.com.au

HIGH TEA AT THE SEBEL KIRKTON PARK

AUGUST CLEAR IMAGE HUNTER VALLEY WINE SHOW CELEBRATIONS LUNCHEON FRI 25 One of the leading regional wine shows with winners announced at the Celebrations Luncheon. winecountry.com.au

WOLLOMBI COUNTRY FAIR SAT 26–SUN 27 This fair celebrates what makes Wollombi unique, with stalls from local vineyards, a farmers’ market, scarecrow competition and lantern parade. wollombicountryfair. com.au

POOCH PICNIC SUN 13 The headline act at this dog-friendly picnic day at Pepper Tree Wines is Kelly Gill and her Wonder Dogs training demonstrations, plus lots of treats for pooches, picnic hampers and wine by the glass for owners. No BYO. Gold coin entry fee. 02 4909 7100. peppertreewines.com.au

REGULAR EVENTS HIGH TEA @ THE SEBEL KIRKTON PARK

DAILY Enjoy a traditional high tea

in the sunlit Conservatory overlooking the rose garden, from noon to 4pm; $40pp for sweet and savoury delights including a glass of sparkling wine. Bookings on 02 4998 7680. sebelhuntervalley.com.au

PIGS & CHICKEN FEEDING @ SEBEL KIRKTON PARK

DAILY Sebel’s four Australian Yorkshire pigs and 30 chooks are fed daily at noon and everyone is welcome (you don’t have to be a guest). You can also collect fresh eggs from The Stables and head down to the dam to check out the yabbies. sebelhuntervalley. com.au

MUSIC BY THE VINES

WEEKLY Head to Restaurant Botanica on Sundays for smooth sounds and delicious snacks. Music By The Vines features a three-hour music session played in the restaurant, where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch or just opt for a glass of wine and a snack beside the vines. Bookings on 02 6574 7229.

PARKRUN SINGLETON

WEEKLY Parkrun is a free weekly 5km run/walk. It's you against the clock but everyone is welcome to attend. Register online, print off your unique barcode and bring it along each week to have your time recorded. parkrun.com.au/ singleton

WINE AND ANTIPASTO TASTING

WEEKENDS Taste three wines and enjoy antipasto to match at Pepper Tree Wines. $20pp. Bookings essential on 02 4909 7100. peppertreewines. com.au

HIGH TEA @ GEMELLI ESTATE

MONTHLY Enjoy a Sunday high tea

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

in the garden or gallery with sweet and savoury treats accompanied by a glass of estate wine on March 12, April 30, May 21 and June 4, from 1pm to 5pm. $35pp. Bookings on 02 4998 7910. gemelliestate.com.au

ART AFTER HOURS

MONTHLY Cessnock Regional Art Gallery throws open its doors with Art After Hours on the last Thursday of each month, from 5–8pm, offering you evening access to its latest exhibitions, along with music and local wines. Usual gallery opening hours are Thu–Sun 11am–4pm. 02 4991 6619. crag.net.au

BROKE VILLAGE MARKET

MONTHLY A small community market with gourmet goodies, toys and more, held on the first Sunday morning of each month in the park opposite Broke Village Store. brokefordwich.com.au

HANDMADE HUNTER MARKETS

MONTHLY This market showcases handmade originals and home-grown produce at Kevin Sobels Wines at least twice a month (usually the second and fourth Saturday of each month and Saturday and Sunday on long weekends). handmadehuntermarkets. com.au

WOLLOMBI MARKETS

HOLIDAY MONDAYS Visit historic Wollombi and stroll around the community markets featuring over 100 stalls on the holiday Monday of each long weekend: Easter Monday on March 28; Queen’s birthday Monday June 8. wollombimarkets.com

WANT MORE?

FOR MORE EVENT INFO GO TO WINECOUNTRY. COM.AU

get hooked

Open 10am to 4.30pm daily for sales and tastings. Corner Ekerts and Broke Roads, Pokolbin NSW 2320 | www.davidhookwines.com.au | T: 0249 987121

HVM_halfpage_FINAL.indd 1

david hook wines 9/02/2017 10:27 am

WINE&FOOD FESTIVAL May - June 2017

Hunter Valley Wine Festival

Cabernet, Chocolate & Cold Drip at Pepper Tree Wines

By the Fireside Winemakers’ Series at Hunter Valley Resort

Pie & Wine Pairing Experience in Lovedale

Chef’s Plate at RidgeView Wines

Cheese Lovers’ Festival at The Sebel Kirkton Park Garden|Chef|Winemaker with Spicers & Tyrrell’s Wines

Lovedale Long Lunch

Hunter Valley Wine, Food & Film Festival

Taste of Wollombi Heroes of the Hunter at Crowne Plaza

Meet the Farmer Dinner at Margan Wines

Glandore Estate Burning of the Barrel

De Iuliis Shiraz Masterclass

Whispering Brook Olive Long Table Luncheon Official Partner

Meet the Growers in Broke Fordwich

Coffee Flights at Hunter Valley Coffee Roasters

Discover more events during May and June at

winecountry.com.au

O F F I C I A L

G U I D E

Your guide to the region’s essential sights and services. • Cellar Doors • Restaurants & Cafes • Gourmet • • Tours • Experiences • Accommodation • • Weddings • Services •

+ pull-out touring map WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

Discover.

A world of wine

10 great reasons to visit

So close to Sydney yet truly a world away, the Hunter Valley is the birthplace of Australian wine. Wine Country – as the Hunter Valley is known – is a dynamic wine region with more than 150 premium wine producers, 60 tempting restaurants and 180 inviting places to stay. It has all the ingredients for a perfect getaway, from gourmet regional produce, boutique breweries, indulgent spas and action-packed adventures, to acclaimed gardens, galleries and heritage towns. Pokolbin and Rothbury represent the traditional heart of the Hunter Valley, but there are plenty of other towns to explore and secrets to discover. The rural community of Wollombi is famed for its colonial architecture, convict-built buildings and lush bushland, while Lovedale, Mount View and Broke exude an air of tranquillity with boutique wineries, family-owned restaurants and cafes, and hospitable B&Bs. Wind your way between old delights and new surprises as you relax and unwind in this remarkable region.

1 LIFE’S TOO SHORT TO DRINK BAD WINE

courses, which take advantage of the views.

The Hunter Valley is famous for its Semillon and Shiraz, but you’ll also find Chardonnay, Verdelho, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and specialty varieties (organic, biodynamic, sparkling, fortifieds and dessert wines).

6 FLOWER POWER

Did you know? There are 2664 hectares of wine grapes planted in the Hunter Valley (1153 red, 1511 white). Source: ABS Vineyards Survey

Drive time Discover the Hunter Valley way of life – it’s just a two-hour drive north of Sydney. With the new Hunter Expressway you can now travel a more convenient route to the vineyards, and it will cut travel times between Newcastle and the Hunter Valley by up to 25 minutes.

2 CREATIVE CUISINE Lunch at a casual alfresco cafe overlooking the vines or enjoy dinner at a fine-dining restaurant with a crackling fire.

3 GOURMET PRODUCE Sample everything from olives, olive oils, tapenades, jams, chocolate, cheese and coffee to beer and spirits, all locally grown and made.

4 TOURS OF ALL TYPES Take a tour in a horse-drawn carriage, a Cadillac convertible or a modern limousine or on the back of a bike (more tour options on page 107).

5 CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF Tee off among the vines at one of three international-class

Hunter Valley Gardens has over 25 landscaped hectares of themed display gardens to see, which change from season to season.

7 FLIGHTS OF FANCY

Greet the morning with a sunrise hot air balloon flight, then see the sights in your own private helicopter (see pages 107 and 114 for more aerial activities).

8 RESCUE REMEDY

The Hunter Valley boasts several destination spas, so you can sign up for an hour, a day or a week of indulgent treatments.

9 ARTISAN LANDSCAPES

Explore galleries showcasing a range of local artists’ work, from paint and sculpture to glasswork and woodwork.

10 EVENTS TO REMEMBER

Watch your favourite performer and enjoy great food and wine at one of the Valley’s signature events, concerts and festivals (see pages 69–74 for What’s On).

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: VINEYARDS IN BROKE AT THE FOOTHILLS OF THE BROKENBACK RANGE; SHIRAZ IS THE REGION'S FLAGSHIP RED; EXPLORING THE ABORIGINAL SITES OF WOLLLOMBI; MCDONALDS ROAD, POKOLBIN.

Hunter Valley subregions. While it is the Hunter Valley as a whole that is recognised and remembered as a world-class food and wine destination, the region is made up of a number of smaller subregions. Each has its own secrets to reveal and subtle nuances in terms of wine characteristics. They can be discovered on their own or as part of the Hunter Valley food and wine trail.

BROKE FORDWICH The Broke Fordwich region, a 20-minute drive from Pokolbin, is nestled at the foothills of the Brokenback Range in the shadow of the majestic Yellow Rock escarpment. It has a rustic charm and is pin-drop quiet, making it the perfect destination for a relaxing rural retreat. Peppered with boutique and biodynamic vineyards, olive groves, cosy accommodation options and restaurants, it has two big-ticket events: A Little Bit of Italy held each April and the Broke Village Fair & Vintage Car Display in September.

LOVEDALE When you exit the Hunter Expressway at Lovedale Road

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

and turn left you’ve arrived in Lovedale, a relaxed neighbourhood east of Pokolbin. The winding country roads are lined with cellar doors, eateries and an eclectic collection of places to stay – pick up a copy of the Tour De Lovedale map, painted by local artist Megan Barrass, and follow the self-drive route. It’s also home to mobs of kangaroos and wallabies, and the Lovedale Long Lunch, which takes place on the third weekend in May each year.

MOUNT VIEW As far as idyllic rural backdrops go, you can’t ask for much better than Mount View. Weaving its way past terraced vineyards, tasting

rooms and charming B&Bs, Mount View Road takes you up to the Bimbadeen and Mount Bright Lookouts, with breathtaking views in every direction. It’s off the beaten track, but the mountaintop outlook, peaceful setting and memorable food and wine experiences are worth seeking out.

POKOLBIN Pokolbin isn’t a town or village, but it’s hailed as the hub of the Hunter Valley because it has the highest concentration of wineries, restaurants, accommodation and activities in the region. The first vineyards were planted in Pokolbin in the mid-1800s, and it continues to play a pivotal role in winemaking today with winemakers producing the region’s award-winning flagship wines – Shiraz and Semillon – as well as new varieties that receive widespread acclaim. While Pokolbin revolves around Broke and McDonalds Roads, it also includes established trails such as Palmers ‘Wine Lovers’ Lane and the Around Hermitage Trail.

UPPER HUNTER The Upper Hunter is the largest horse-breeding region in Australia and has an extensive viticultural industry based around Denman, Muswellbrook and Jerrys Plains. Stretching from Singleton in the south to Murrurundi in the north, it has a bevy of paddock-to-plate produce to sample, including olives, cheese and boutique wines, as well as outdoor and water-based activities at Lake St Clair and Lake Glenbawn.

WOLLOMBI VALLEY Drive 30 minutes south-west of Pokolbin to the quaint village of Wollombi and you’ll be transported back to a bygone era. Established in the mid-1800s, the pretty hamlet is famed for its colonial architecture and oldworld general store. The gateway to the Wollombi Valley, it offers a heady mix of attractions, from ancient Aboriginal sites, national parks and the Great North Road convict trail to farmgate produce and boutique wines.

CELLAR DOOR

GUEST COTTAGE

GOURMET PLATTERS

Breathtaking escarpments, ancient topography, stunning landscapes - just some of the attractions you will pass on your drive to the idyllic village of Denman in the Upper Hunter - home of the award winning Two Rivers wines. Our cellar door is the ideal place to relax with a beautiful outdoor area, sandstone sculpture garden and stunning views over the valley. Enjoy a glass of Two Rivers wine while sampling our generous cheese and antipasto platters, full of delicious locally sourced produce. 2 Yarrawa Road Denman NSW I phone (02) 65 47 2556 I email linda@tworivers.com.au I www.tworiverswines.com.au

explore, escape, relax...

Cellar doors.

0409 774 280

Whispering Brook

Rodd St, Broke

02 6579 1386

Adina Vineyard & Olive Grove

492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 7473

Allandale Winery

132 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4990 4526

Capercaillie Wine

4 Londons Rd, Lovedale

02 4990 2904

Emma’s Cottage Vineyard

438 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale

02 4998 7734

Gartelmann Wines

701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 7113

Tatler Wines

477 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 9139

Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard

750 DeBeyers Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 1866

Bimbadgen

790 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 4600

Blueberry Hill Vineyard

999 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7295

Brokenwood Wines

401–427 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7559

Chateau Francois

Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7548

Cockfighter’s Ghost Wines

Cnr McDonalds & DeBeyers Rds, Pokolbin

02 4993 3600

Constable Estate

205 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7887

David Hook Wines

Cnr Ekerts & Broke Rds, Pokolbin

02 4998 7121

De Bortoli Wines

532 Wine Country Dr, Pokolbin

02 4993 8800

Degen Wines

365 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin

0437 661 993

LOVEDALE & NORTH ROTHBURY

NULKABA, POKOLBIN & ROTHBURY

De Iuliis Wines

1616 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4993 8000

Drayton’s Family Wines

555 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7513

Eagles Rest Wines

534 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6714

Ernest Hill Wines

307 Wine Country Dr, Nulkaba

02 4991 4418

First Creek Wines

600 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 2992

Gemelli Estate

168 Palmers Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7910

Glandore Estate Wines

1595 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7140

Gundog Hunter Cellar & Gourmet Pantry

101 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6873

Hanging Tree Wines

294 O'Connors Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6608

Hart & Hunter

463 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7645

Hermitage Road Cellars & Winery

Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7777

Hungerford Hill Wines

2450 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7666

Hunter’s Dream

149 Deasys Rd, Rothbury

02 4998 6509

Kelman Vineyard

2 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin

02 4991 5456

Keith Tulloch Wine

Cnr Hermitage & Deasys Rds, Pokolbin

02 4998 7500

Kevin Sobels Wines

5 Halls Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7766

Lake’s Folly

2416 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7507

Lambloch Estate

2342 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6722

Macquariedale Organic Wines

170 Sweetwater Rd, Rothbury

02 6574 7012

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KIDS’ PLAYGROUND

1273 Milbrodale Rd, Broke

FUNCTIONS

02 6579 1314

Stomp! Wines

FREE WIFI

130 Adams Peak Rd, Broke

CONFERENCE FACILITIES

02 6579 1372

Mount Broke Wines

BBQ

02 6579 1322

1238 Milbrodale Rd, Broke

ART GALLERY

712 Wollombi Rd, Broke

Margan Winery & Restaurant

ACCOMMODATION

Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard

LOCAL PRODUCE

PHONE

RESTAURANT/CAFE

ADDRESS

BROKE FORDWICH & MILBRODALE

GROUP WINE TASTINGS

NAME

TOURS

SAMPLE THE REGION'S AWARD-WINNING WINES.

BIODYNAMIC/ORGANIC

PAGE

OTHER VARIETIES

FORTIFIED WINES

DESSERT WINES

SPARKLING WINES

MOSCATO

ROSÉ

BLENDS

SHIRAZ

PINOT NOIR

MERLOT

CABERNET SAUVIGNON

VERDELHO

SEMILLON

SAUVIGNON BLANC

RIESLING

CHARDONNAY

MAP

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WINE VARIETIES The Hunter Valley produces less than two per cent of Australia’s wine, yet lays claim to some of the industry’s oldest and most well-known winemaking families, and consistently produces an impressive, awardwinning array of varieties and styles. Semillon The Hunter Valley sets the world benchmark for Semillon, and it is, both nationally and internationally, the most highly awarded variety produced in the region. In its youth, it is zesty, bright with lemon/ lime aromas and flavours, and has a delicate acidity to finish – perfect for fresh seafood. Those who are prepared to wait are rewarded with complexity – biscuit, malt, honey and toasty richness. Chardonnay Typically medium- to full-bodied in style, Hunter Valley Chardonnay is characterised by peach, fig and tropical fruit-like flavours with crisp and fresh unwooded styles, and full-bodied, rich and fulfilling wooded styles. Verdelho A style unique to the Hunter Valley, Verdelho, customarily made without oak, is a fruit-driven medium-bodied wine. Shiraz Shiraz is undoubtedly the most important red variety in the Hunter Valley. Regionally distinctive, it is medium- to fullbodied, characterised when young by blackberry, mulberry and plum characters, as well as spice, chocolate and liquorice with the characteristic regional earthy, leathery tones and complexity developing with age. Cabernet Sauvignon Hunter Valley Cabernet is something of an enigma, producing wines with firm tannins, a fragrant bouquet and smoky aromas developing into cigar-box complexity with age. Merlot Merlot from the Hunter Valley shows suppleness, fine tannins and leafy complexity. A number of specialty wines, including organic, sparkling, fortified and dessert wines, are also produced. No matter what your preference, you’ll always find a style to share and enjoy in the Hunter Valley.

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Cellar doors. McGuigan Wines

447 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7402

McLeish Estate

462 DeBeyers Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7754

Mistletoe Winery

771 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

1800 055 080

Misty Glen Wines & Cottage

293 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7781

Moorebank Vineyard Estate

150 Palmers Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7610

Mount Pleasant Cellar Door

401 Marrowbone Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7505

Oakvale Wines

1596 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7088

Pepper Tree Wines

86 Halls Rd, Pokolbin

02 4909 7100

Peter Drayton Wines

@ IronBark Hill Vineyard, 694 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7085

Peterson House

Cnr Broke Rd & Wine Country Dr, Pokolbin

02 4998 7881

RidgeView Wines

273 Sweetwater Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7332

Rothvale Winery

223 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7290

Saddler’s Creek Wines

15 Marrowbone Rd, Pokolbin

02 4991 1770

Scarborough on Hermitage

972 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6538

Scarborough Wine Co.

179 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7563

Tempus Two Cellar Door

Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rds, Pokolbin

02 4993 3999

Thomas Wines

@ Estate Tuscany, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7134

Tinklers

53 Pokolbin Mountains Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7435

Tintilla Estate Wines & Olives

725 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7093

Travertine Wines

78 Old North Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7378

Tulloch Wines

638 DeBeyers Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7580

Tyrrell’s Wines

1838 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4993 7028

Usher Tinkler Wines

97 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7069

Vinden Estate Wines

138 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7410

Wombat Crossing Vineyard

530 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7357

Wynwood Estate

310 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7885

Briar Ridge Vineyard

593 Mount View Rd, Mount View

02 4990 3670

Mount View Estate

502 Mount View Rd, Mount View

02 4990 3307

Petersons Wines

552 Mount View Rd, Mount View

02 4990 1704

Savannah Estate

402 Mount View Rd, Mount View

02 4990 6326

Tallavera Grove Vineyard

749 Mount View Rd, Mount View

02 4990 7535

2 Yarrawa Rd, Denman

02 6547 2556

Stonehurst Wines

1840 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi

02 4998 1576

Wollombi Wines

Wollombi Rd, Wollombi

02 4998 3427

MILLFIELD & MOUNT VIEW

UPPER HUNTER Two Rivers Wines

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HUNTER VALLEY LEGENDS ANNOUNCED The Hunter Valley’s prestigious 2016 Hunter Valley Legends Awards were held at Cypress Lakes Resort with hundreds of locals celebrating the outstanding achievements of those who have made a major contribution to and excelled in the wine and tourism industries. In its 10th year, the Hunter Valley Legends Awards pays homage to its 2016 Wine Industry Living Legend Alain Le Prince who has contributed over 40 years to the Hunter Valley Wine Industry. Not only was Alain inducted, but winners in four other categories were also announced. Chairman of the Hunter Valley Wine and Tourism Association, The Hon George Souris gave special recognition to the high calibre of this year’s nominees and that the annual awards are a celebration of, and give recognition to the skill, hard work, dedication and excellence of the region’s winemakers, viticulturists and industry professionals, and reflects on the successes of the year that has passed. And the winners are: Alain Le Prince – Hunter Valley Wine Industry Living Legend. Liz Jackson from First Creek Wines took home the Winemaker of the Year Award, which is sponsored by First Creek Winemaking Services and awarded to an outstanding Hunter Valley Winemaker who is a leader in the profession. Belinda Paterson, General Manager The Sebel Kirkton Park, Hunter Valley, was awarded the Rising Star of the Year, sponsored by Riedel, for an extraordinary contribution to the region’s wine and tourism industries over the preceding 12 months. Paul Harvey from Mount Pleasant Wines took home the Viticulturist of the Year Award, sponsored by Laffort Australia. And the Cellar Door of the Year, sponsored by CBA Local Business Banking, which recognises all-round excellence at the cellar door, went to De Iuliis Wines. Congratulations to all. For full details of the results, visit winecountry.com.au

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CELLAR DOORS BROKE FORDWICH • LOVEDALE

KRINKLEWOOD BIODYNAMIC VINEYARD 712 WOLLOMBI RD, BROKE

T 02 6579 1322 E info@krinklewood.com krinklewood.com Krinklewood is a certified biodynamic/organic, family-owned vineyard, managed in a holistic and sustainable way. The French-inspired cellar door is set in Provençal gardens with Wollombi Brook and the Brokenback Range spectacular backdrops. Cheese platters available. Fri–Sun 10am– 5pm

WHISPERING BROOK RODD ST, BROKE

T 02 6579 1386 E info@whispering-brook.com whispering-brook.com “Situated in the most idyllic site for wine production, Whispering Brook offers an impressive selection of red and white wines,” wrote travelanthropist.com See for yourself and experience a tutored tour through the winery, vineyards and olive groves followed by a wine tasting. Fri 1.30–4.30pm, Sat 10.30am–5pm, Sun 10.30am –4.30pm

MARGAN WINERY & RESTAURANT

STOMP! WINES

1238 MILBRODALE RD, BROKE

1273 MILBRODALE RD, BROKE

Leading winemaker Andrew Margan handcrafts premium estate-grown, estate-made wines from the Margan old vine vineyards. Enjoy expansive views of the vineyards and spectacular Brokenback Range from the cellar door. Awarded Best Winery NSW Tourism Hall of Fame and a red 5-star James Halliday rating 2009–2016. Daily 10am–5pm

Owners Michael and Meredith will guide your tasting of highly awarded, contemporary brands Stomp! and Pssst ’n’ Broke, as they share their passion for growing and crafting fresh, fruit-driven wines. Savour classic estate-grown Hunter Valley varieties and a rare sparkling Verdelho and Fiano. Fri–Sun 10.30am–4.30pm

ADINA VINEYARD & OLIVE GROVE

ALLANDALE WINERY

T 02 6579 1372 E cellardoor@margan.com.au margan.com.au

492 LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

T 02 4930 7473 E info@adinavineyard.com.au adinavineyard.com.au

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132 LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

T 02 4990 4526 E wines@allandalewinery.com.au allandalewinery.com.au

Adina Vineyard is a destination with something for everyone – great wines, estate-produced providore products, extra virgin olive oils, 4.5-star accommodation, cafe/restaurant and day spa. The friendly staff is ready to welcome you and ensure you enjoy the Adina experience. Daily 10am–5pm

Allandale boasts a distinguished portfolio of classic Hunter Valley wines, as well as more contemporary varieties such as Pinot Gris and Tempranillo. Tastings are held in the winery where friendly cellar door staff will help you find wines that you’ll enjoy while taking in the breathtaking Valley views. Mon–Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 10am–5pm

CAPERCAILLIE WINE

EMMA’S COTTAGE VINEYARD

4 LONDONS RD, LOVEDALE

438 WILDERNESS RD, LOVEDALE

Capercaillie winery and cellar door is situated on some of the best vineyards in the Lovedale region. It offers a range of Hunter Valley wines, including the flagship Ghillie Shiraz, as well as a selection of multi-regional blends using specific parcels of fruit from other areas. Daily 10am–4pm

Wine, food and art. Taste award-winning estategrown wines from vines planted 30 years ago, partake of delectable food in Zaih’s dining room, view original works in the art gallery, enjoy the garden or book a cottage stay. Perfect! Fri 12–5pm, Sat–Sun 10am–5pm

T 02 4990 2904 E sales@capercailliewine.com.au capercailliewine.com.au

M 0409 774 280 E meredith@stompwine.com.au stompwine.com.au

T 02 4998 7734 E emmascottage@bigpond.com hunteraccommodation.com.au

CELLAR DOORS

LOVEDALE • NORTH ROTHBURY • NULKABA • POKOLBIN

GARTELMANN WINES

ERNEST HILL WINES

AUDREY WILKINSON VINEYARD

701 LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

307 WINE COUNTRY DR, NULKABA

750 DEBEYERS RD, POKOLBIN

Experience the Gartelmann difference. Come in and be absorbed by the tranquil surrounds of this eco-friendly designed cellar door while you enjoy the quality boutique difference at Gartelmann Wines. The wines represent the best of the Hunter and beyond. Family owned and operated with passion. Mon–Sat 9am– 5pm, Sun 10am–4pm

Known for its superb wines and excellent service, this family-owned and operated cellar door is the home of the multi-award-winning Alexander Chardonnay and William Henry Shiraz. It also produces delicious lighter-style dessert wines and a liqueur Muscat. All wines are exclusive to the cellar door. Daily 10am–5pm

Planted in 1866, Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard was the first vineyard established in the Parish of Pokolbin, more than 140 years ago. With breathtaking views of the Hunter Valley, this James Halliday red 5-star winery is an absolute must-visit for visitors to the region. Daily 10am–5pm (closed Xmas & Boxing Day)

BIMBADGEN

BLUEBERRY HILL VINEYARD

BROKENWOOD WINES

790 MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

999 MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

401–427 MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

Located high on a hill in the heart of Wine Country, Bimbadgen is a striking winery with a cellar door featuring more than 23 varieties and blends, award-winning Esca Bimbadgen Restaurant, cafe, outdoor amphitheatre and accommodation all in the one stunning location. A James Halliday 5-star winery. Sun–Thu 10am–5pm, Fri–Sat 10am–7pm

You’ll find your thrill at Blueberry Hill, a wellestablished vineyard growing six varieties – Merlot, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. The boutique cellar door boasts panoramic views across vineyards to the Brokenback Range and there’s lovely B&B accommodation too. Daily 10am–5pm

Brokenwood’s cellar door boasts an impressive array of premium wines. From the flagship and highly acclaimed Graveyard Vineyard Shiraz to the popular Cricket Pitch range, Brokenwood is a red 5-star James Halliday winery and a must-visit while you’re in the Hunter Valley. Mon–Sat 9.30am–5pm, Sun 10am–5pm

CHATEAU FRANCOIS

COCKFIGHTER’S GHOST WINES

BROKE ROAD, POKOLBIN

CNR MCDONALDS & DEBEYERS RDS, POKOLBIN

T 02 4930 7113 E sales@gartelmann.com.au gartelmann.com.au

T 02 4998 4600 E cellardoor@bimbadgen.com.au bimbadgen.com.au

T 02 4998 7548

Established in 1969 by former NSW Director of Fisheries Dr Don Francois, who is dedicated to producing classic Hunter Valley varieties Semillon and Shiraz at modest prices. Rated a red 5-star winery in the James Halliday Australian Wine Companion 2015. Sat–Sun 9am–5pm or by appointment

T 02 4991 4418 E wines@ernesthillwines.com.au ernesthillwines.com.au

T 02 4998 7295 E blueberryhill@pacific.net.au blueberryhill.com.au

T 02 4998 1866 E cellardoor@audreywilkinson.com.au audreywilkinson.com.au

T 02 4998 7559 E sales@brokenwood.com.au brokenwood.com.au

T 02 4993 3600 E info@cockfightersghost.com.au cockfightersghost.com.au The Cockfighter’s Ghost label is stabled in a state-of-the-art, architecturally designed building. Located on the historic Post Office Vineyard and surrounded by the region’s oldest Shiraz vines, a visit to the Cockfighter’s Ghost cellar door is one of the highlights of the Hunter Valley. Daily 10am–5pm (closed Xmas & Boxing Day)

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CELLAR DOORS POKOLBIN

CONSTABLE ESTATE

DAVID HOOK WINES

DE BORTOLI WINES

205 GILLARDS RD, POKOLBIN

CNR EKERTS & BROKE RDS, POKOLBIN

532 WINE COUNTRY DR, POKOLBIN

Try the mouth-watering Sparkling Pink Moscato and Botrytis Semillon, and then meet Matilda the cow and solve the mystery tune painted on her shoulder at this delightful property. There are also beautifully landscaped gardens, bronze and marble sculptures, and a new lookout to explore. Daily 10am–4pm

One of the district’s most exclusive small cellars, David Hook Wines specialises in single-vineyard wines made from the region’s traditional varieties including Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz, and is also renowned for the Italian varieties Barbera and Pinot Grigio. A 5-star James Halliday winery. Daily 10am–5pm

Proudly family owned since 1928. This cellar door, at the gateway to Wine Country, offers an extensive portfolio of wines, including the iconic Noble One dessert wine, local Semillon and Shiraz, delicious Moscato as well as premium fortified wines and sparkling wines. Daily 10am–5pm

DEGEN WINES

DE IULIIS WINES

DRAYTON'S FAMILY WINES

365 DEASYS RD, POKOLBIN

1616 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

555 OAKEY CREEK RD, POKOLBIN

Taste 100% Hunter Valley single vineyard Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz wines and experience true Hunter hospitality at this beautiful cellar door. Savour delicious, premium wines made from one of the smallest commercial vineyards and take in the beautiful views from the Degen’s tasting table. Fri 1–5pm, Sat–Sun 10am–4pm

One of the hardest names to say in the Australian wine industry, but one of the best! This acclaimed producer focuses on regionality and a modern winemaking approach to ensure unique yet highly identifiable wines with a sense of time and place. A James Halliday red 5-star winery. Daily 10am–5pm

Drayton’s Family Wines is proud to be one of the oldest, 100 per cent family-owned producers of quality wines. The range of wines is indicative of the Hunter’s best and a visit to the cellar door will provide you with an authentic Hunter Valley Wine Country experience. Mon–Fri 8am–5pm, Sat–Sun 10am–5pm

EAGLES REST WINES

FIRST CREEK WINES

534 OAKEY CREEK RD, POKOLBIN

600 MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

At the heart of Eagles Rest Wines is the renowned Maluna vineyard with a history stretching back to the 1860s. Replanted in 1971, this vineyard produces super-premium wines which exemplify the notion of distinguished single-vineyard sites for Chardonnay, Semillon and Shiraz. Daily 10am–5pm

First Creek Wines won an incredible 11 trophies in 2015! Taste award-winning Hunter Valley classics as well as a range of emerging varieties. With a red 5-star James Halliday rating, and a winery tour daily at 10.30am, First Creek Wines is not to be missed. Mon–Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 9.30am–4pm

T 02 4998 7887 E hunter@constablevineyards.com.au constablevineyards.com.au

T 0437 661 993 E mail@degenwines.com.au degenwines.com.au

T 02 4998 7121 E sales@davidhookwines.com.au davidhookwines.com.au

T 02 4993 8000 E sales@dewine.com.au dewine.com.au

T 02 4998 6714 E cellardoor@eaglesrestwines.com.au eaglesrestwines.com

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T 02 4993 8800 E hunter_info@debortoli.com.au debortoli.com.au

T 02 4998 7513 E drink@draytons.com.au draytonswines.com.au

T 02 4998 2992 E sales@firstcreekwines.com.au firstcreekwines.com.au

CELLAR DOORS POKOLBIN

GEMELLI ESTATE

GLANDORE ESTATE WINES

168 PALMERS LN, POKOLBIN

1595 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

At this boutique, family-owned business you can sample hand-picked wines and buy wine by the glass or bottle and enjoy with a cheese platter while taking in the stunning views. You can indulge further and book in for the monthly high tea or stay in the quaint cottage on the property. Sat–Sun 10am–5pm, Mon & Fri 10am–4pm

Glandore Estate’s aim has been to produce wines of great character, regionality and style from the traditional varieties known in the Hunter Valley to new and exciting alternative varieties such as Tempranillo and Savagnin. Visit the boutique cellar door and taste what everyone’s talking about. Daily 10am–5pm

HANGING TREE WINES

HART & HUNTER

294 O'CONNORS RD, POKOLBIN

463 DEASYS RD, POKOLBIN

One of the most picturesque properties in the Hunter Valley with a rose garden, duck pond, olive grove, luxurious homestead and a cowshed-converted cellar door – all teeming with character. Book your next getaway or pop in to taste the award-winning wines. Daily 10am–5pm

Winemaking couple Damien Stevens and Jodie Belleville are the hands behind Hart & Hunter. It’s a premium boutique brand doing things their own way, specialising in single vineyard wines that reflect provenance and a sense of place. A visit to this cellar door is a true Hunter Valley experience. Thu–Sun 10am–4pm

HUNGERFORD HILL WINES

KELMAN VINEYARD

2450 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

2 OAKEY CREEK RD, POKOLBIN

Rated a 5-star winery in the 2014 James Halliday Australian Wine Companion, Hungerford Hill offers a premium tasting experience in stylish surrounds. Enjoy a traditional stand-up tasting, or book in for a seated Epic™ food and wine tasting experience with bites prepared by Muse Restaurant. Sun–Thu 10am–5pm, Fri–Sat 10am–6pm

Nestled at the gateway to Mount View, Kelman is a community-owned vineyard producing both classic, premium wines and a sweet wine range. Visit the Pokolbin cellar door and try the wines, and you can also sample a range of delicious local olives, olive oils and condiments. Daily 10am–4pm

T 02 4998 7910 E info@gemelliestate.com.au gemelliestate.com.au

T 02 4998 6608 E info@hangingtreewines.com.au hangingtreewines.com.au

T 02 4998 7666 E wines@hungerfordhill.com.au hungerfordhill.com.au

T 02 4998 7140 E info@glandorewines.com glandorewines.com

T 02 4998 7645 E info@hartandhunter.com.au hartandhunter.com.au

GUNDOG HUNTER CELLAR & GOURMET PANTRY 101 MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 6873 E info@gundogestate.com.au gundogestate.com.au Discover high-quality regionally distinct wines and a hand-picked selection of gourmet products, reflecting Gundog’s ‘quality over quantity’ philosophy at this 5-star James Halliday winery. Awarded Best Small Cellar Door – Lower Hunter by Gourmet Traveller WINE magazine in 2013. Daily 10am–5pm

HERMITAGE ROAD CELLARS & WINERY CNR HERMITAGE RD & MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7777 E wines@hunterresort.com.au hunterresort.com.au/wine/index.htm

Nowhere else in the Valley can you try so many wines under the one roof. Offering an exclusive range of premium wines from small Hunter Valley winemakers, including Thomas Wines, David Hook, Margan Wines, Little Wine Co, Polin & Polin and Stormy Ridge. Daily 10am–5pm (closed Xmas Day)

T 02 4991 5456 E admin@kelmanvineyard.com.au kelmanvineyard.com.au

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CELLAR DOORS POKOLBIN

KEVIN SOBELS WINES

LAKE’S FOLLY

LAMBLOCH ESTATE

5 HALLS RD, POKOLBIN

2416 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

2342 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

The Sobels winery stands on the corner of Broke and Halls Roads in Pokolbin, and every wine for sale under the Sobels label is made, aged and bottled onsite. The sales room is staffed by friendly, knowledgeable people offering a range of dry and sweeter style Hunter Valley wines. Daily 9am–5pm

A Hunter icon, and Australia’s first boutique winery, Lake’s Folly was established in 1963. Its two flagship wines, a Cabernet blend and a Chardonnay, are produced in limited quantities and grown, made, and bottled on the Estate. James Halliday red 5-star winery. Daily 10am–4pm (when wine available)

There is no cellar door quite like Lambloch Estate. Enjoy picturesque views of the vineyard with its stunning backdrop of the Brokenback Range. It’s the perfect spot to relax, unwind and enjoy some of the Hunter Valley’s finest premium wines. Daily 10am–5pm

MCGUIGAN WINES

MCLEISH ESTATE

MISTLETOE WINERY

447 MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

462 DEBEYERS RD, POKOLBIN

771 HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

Winner of the 2009, 2011 and 2012 International Winemaker of the Year, and 2009, 2012 and 2013 International White Winemaker of the Year, McGuigan Wines is a must-visit destination. Enjoy awardwinning museum and cellar-door-only wines in the recently refurbished tasting rooms. Daily 9.30am–5pm

Over 32 vintages this James Halliday 5-star winery has established itself as one of the region’s most awarded premium boutique wineries, including winning the Best Semillon Trophy at the 2016 London International Wine Challenge. It’s an essential stop for anyone who enjoys exceptional wines. Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, Sat–Sun 10am–5pm

Mistletoe is a small family-owned and operated vineyard and winery established by the current owners in 1989. From vineyard to bottle, Mistletoe’s ‘quality without compromise’ approach to producing small quantities of premium wine has earned it a James Halliday 5-star rating from 2007 to 2014. Daily 10am–6pm (closed Xmas Day)

MISTY GLEN WINES & COTTAGE

MOOREBANK VINEYARD ESTATE

293 DEASYS RD, POKOLBIN

150 PALMERS LN, POKOLBIN

Drink, play and stay at Misty Glen in the heart of the Hunter Valley! This boutique vineyard produces Semillon, Chardonnay, Chambourcin, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, which are created into traditional and unusual wine styles. Mention Hunter Valley Magazine and receive discounts on wine purchases. Fri, Sun & Mon 10am–4pm, Sat 10am–5pm

Moorebank offers an extensive selection of sustainably grown, ultra-premium wines as well as a collection of ginseng-infused wines. There’s also a wide range of handmade, wine-inspired condiments and sauces, including its famous Spicy Grape Sauce and handmade Lemonade Syrup, which are all available for tasting. Daily 10am–5pm

T 02 4998 7766 E kevin@sobelswines.com.au sobelswines.com.au

T 02 4998 7402 E hunter@mcguiganwines.com.au mcguiganwines.com.au

T 02 4998 7507 E wine@lakesfolly.com.au lakesfolly.com.au

T 02 4998 7754 E info@mcleishhunterwines.com.au mcleishhunterwines.com.au

T 02 4998 7781 E wines@mistyglen.com.au mistyglen.com.au

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T 02 4998 6722 E cellardoor@lambloch.com lambloch.com

T 1800 055 080 E office@mistletoewines.com.au mistletoewines.com.au

T 02 4998 7610 E sales@moorebankvineyard.com.au moorebankvineyard.com.au

CELLAR DOORS POKOLBIN

MOUNT PLEASANT CELLAR DOOR

OAKVALE WINES

PEPPER TREE WINES

401 MARROWBONE RD, POKOLBIN

1596 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

86 HALLS RD, POKOLBIN

Mount Pleasant is one of the great wine estates of Australia with a 5-star James Halliday rating. Taste benchmark wines while enjoying the scenery of the surrounding vineyards and stunning backdrop of the Brokenback Range. Daily 10am–4pm

This family-owned winery has a real passion for viticultural practices and minimal intervention winemaking. The premium handcrafted wines are sold exclusively through the state-of-the-art cellar door and it is one of the Valley’s few gourmet cider and Bellini producers. Daily 10am–5pm, Anzac Day 12– 5pm (closed Xmas Day)

Pepper Tree was established in 1991 and hand-crafts wines of purity, elegance and distinction. It continues to receive national and international recognition for its wines, which you can taste at the picturesque cellar door and also relax with an award-winning coffee roasted onsite at Contango Espresso Roasters. Daily 9am–5pm

PETER DRAYTON WINES

PETERSON HOUSE

RIDGEVIEW WINES

@ IRONBARK HILL VINEYARD, 694 HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN T 02 6574 7085

CNR BROKE RD & WINE COUNTRY DR, POKOLBIN

273 SWEETWATER RD, POKOLBIN

Five-star rated James Halliday boutique cellar door with an outstanding collection of medal-winning wines, including Shiraz, Cabernet, Merlot, Chardonnay, Verdelho and Semillon, as well as sparkling and fortified wines. Onsite accommodation and a relaxed coffee shop with vineyard vistas. Daily 10am–5pm

Peterson House is the specialist producer of sparkling wines in the Hunter Valley. It offers an array of sparkling varieties, from the easy-drinking Blush to the premium blends. Allow the time to enjoy a glass of bubbles on the deck with an oyster or cheese platter. Daily 9am–5pm

T 02 4998 7505 E mtpleasant@mcwilliamswines.com.au mountpleasantwines.com.au

E cellardoor@peterdraytonwines.com.au peterdraytonwines.com.au

T 02 4998 7088 E info@oakvalewines.com.au oakvalewines.com.au

T 02 4998 7881 E bubbles@petersonhouse.com.au petersonhouse.com.au

T 02 4909 7100 E ptwinery@peppertreewines.com.au peppertreewines.com.au

T 02 6574 7332 E wines@ridgeview.com.au ridgeview.com.au Boutique family-owned winery showcasing award-winning wines in Riedel glasses. Renowned Generations and Impressions ranges, and an eclectic mix of lesser-known varietals. Private tasting room available for small groups (bookings essential). Onsite restaurant specialising in food-wine pairing and cottage accommodation. Wed–Sun 10am–5pm

SOME OF OUR VINES ARE OLDER THAN THE ONES IN FR ANCE. LUCK Y YOU.

A curious fact but true. Planted in 1867, our vines were untouched by the phylloxera epidemic of the late 1800s which wiped out all of France's vineyards.

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

CELLAR DOORS POKOLBIN

ROTHVALE WINERY

SADDLER’S CREEK WINES

SCARBOROUGH ON HERMITAGE

223 DEASYS RD, POKOLBIN

15 MARROWBONE RD, POKOLBIN

972 HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

Enjoy some classic Hunter Valley varieties and learn about the wine production process and how to taste wine with father-and-son team Max and Luke Patton at this 75-acre working vineyard. You can also sleep among the vines in one of the five comfortable country cottages. Daily 10am–4pm

Saddler’s Creek, a James Halliday 5-star rated winery, crafts regional premium white, red and dessert wines that are distinctively different. Be welcomed at the cellar door and enjoy award-winning wines from some of Australia’s premium growing regions. Saddler’s, the home of Bluegrass and Club Equus. Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, Sat–Sun 10am–5pm

Scarborough on Hermitage is another home for the Scarborough Wine Co. This bright, modern space is one of the Hunter Valley’s most exciting venues, offering an exceptional tasting experience, amazing views and winery tours. For the Scarboroughs, it’s not just making wine, it’s a way of life. Thu–Mon 10am–5pm

SCARBOROUGH WINE CO.

TEMPUS TWO CELLAR DOOR

THOMAS WINES

179 GILLARDS RD, POKOLBIN

CNR BROKE & MCDONALDS RDS, POKOLBIN

@ ESTATE TUSCANY, CNR HERMITAGE RD & MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

This family-owned business is one of the leading names in quality Hunter Valley wine, specialising in Chardonnay. You’ll be wooed by the distinctly regional wines and the sweeping views at the cosy cellar door, which offers a relaxed seated tasting. Daily 9am–5pm

The striking Tempus Two cellar door stands out from the crowd and so does the wine. There’s a fashionable collection of award-winning wines for tasting, many hand-crafted exclusively for the cellar door, including the Copper Series Shiraz and Semillon. Groups and private tastings welcome (bookings essential). Daily 10am–5pm

T 02 4998 7290 E wines@rothvale.com.au rothvale.com.au

T 02 4998 7563 E info@scarboroughwine.com.au scarboroughwine.com.au

T 02 4991 1770 E winery@saddlerscreek.com saddlerscreek.com; clubequus.com.au

T 02 4993 3999 E cellardoor@tempustwo.com.au tempustwo.com.au

TINKLERS 53 POKOLBIN MOUNTAINS RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7435 E enjoy@tinklers.com.au tinklers.com.au

Enjoy quality single-vineyard wines made from 100 per cent estate-grown grapes at this James Halliday 5-star winery in the foothills of the Pokolbin Mountains and share the history of the Tinkler family, who have lived in the Hunter Valley for more than 100 years. Daily 10am–5pm

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

T 02 4998 6538 E cellar@scarboroughwine.com.au scarboroughwine.com.au

T 02 4998 7134 E cellardoor@thomaswines.com.au thomaswines.com.au Specialising in single-vineyard Semillon and Shiraz, Thomas Wines has access to some of the Valley’s most distinguished vineyards, producing world-class uniquely regional wine styles. You can also taste Thomas Wines at The Small Winemakers Centre. A red 5-star James Halliday winery. Daily 10am–5pm

TINTILLA ESTATE WINES & OLIVES 725 HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 6574 7093 E info@tintilla.com.au tintilla.com.au Tintilla finds that perfect blend of food, wine and family. Take a seat at the table in the cellar door, sip the wines and taste estate-grown olives, vinegars, verjuice and homemade relishes while looking out over the rolling vines. Cheese platters also available. Daily 10.30am–6pm

CELLAR DOORS POKOLBIN • ROTHBURY • MOUNT VIEW

TRAVERTINE WINES

TULLOCH WINES

TYRRELL’S WINES

78 OLD NORTH RD, POKOLBIN

638 DEBEYERS RD, POKOLBIN

1838 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

Travertine Wines is a 30-hectare property located on the rolling hills of Pokolbin. The undulating hillside site sits on the Belford Dome, a limestone formation that adds wonderful flavours to the premium wines. Taste a wide selection of varieties from Chardonnay to Chambourcin. Fri–Sun 10am–4pm

Tulloch’s story began in 1895 when John Younie Tulloch accepted a neglected vineyard as payment of a debt and so began the proud family tradition that continues today with 24 wines for tasting, including the acclaimed Verdelho. A James Halliday red 5-star winery. Daily 10am–5pm (closed Good Friday & Xmas Day)

Established in 1858, Tyrrell’s is one of Australia’s pre-eminent family owned wine companies and home to some of the world’s most iconic wines. A James Halliday red 5-star winery and Cellar Door & Winery of the Year, Tyrrell’s has been awarded more than 5650 trophies and medals. Daily winery tours at 10.30am. Mon–Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 10am–4pm

USHER TINKLER WINES

VINDEN ESTATE WINES

WOMBAT CROSSING VINEYARD

97 MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

138 GILLARDS RD, POKOLBIN

530 HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

Usher Tinkler Wines blurs the lines between traditional and contemporary winemaking. Usher’s wines have been created for discussion – born for sociability. Wine is best when shared with friends and food. Explore this yourself and enjoy some salumi and cheese with your tasting. Daily 10am–5pm

Vinden Estate Wines is a family-owned and operated boutique Hunter Valley winery and vineyard. The Vinden family handcrafts its wines (literally, not figuratively) on-site from hand-picked grapes using the traditional methods of open fermentation, hand plunging and basket pressing. Wed–Sun 10am–5pm

Some say the personalised tastings at this small cellar door are one of the Valley’s best wine-tasting experiences. You can enjoy outstanding aged boutique wines in a lovely country setting, so visit and see if the smallest winegrower in the Valley can make great single vineyard wine! Sat 10.30am–5pm, Fri, Sun and Mon By Appointment

WYNWOOD ESTATE

HUNTER’S DREAM

MACQUARIEDALE ORGANIC WINES

310 OAKEY CREEK RD, POKOLBIN

149 DEASYS RD, ROTHBURY

170 SWEETWATER RD, ROTHBURY

T 02 6574 7378 E sales@travertinewines.com.au travertinewines.com.au

T 02 4998 7069 E enquiries@ushertinklerwines.com ushertinklerwines.com

T 02 4998 7885 E cellar@wynwood.com.au wynwoodestate.com.au The refurbished cellar door and unique ambience, combined with great views across the vineyards, make this Estate a must-visit on your next Hunter Valley wine tour. Wynwood Estate offers a wide range of wines, from easy-drinking styles, limited release and reserve ranges through to Hunter Valley classics. Mon–Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 10am–5pm

T 02 4998 7580 E cellardoor@tullochwines.com tullochwines.com

T 02 4998 7410 E finewines@vindenestate.com.au vindenestate.com.au

T 02 4998 6509 E admin.hd@naturescare.com.au Discover the unforgettable tranquillity and beauty of this 77-hectare estate, owned and managed by renowned health care company, Nature’s Care. Enjoy exquisite gardens and vineyards whilst tasting an exceptional range of estate-produced wines at the newly opened cellar door. Daily 10am–4.30pm

T 02 4993 7028 E cellardoor@tyrrells.com.au tyrrells.com.au

T 02 6574 7357 E wines@wombatcrossing.net wombatcrossing.net

T 02 6574 7012 E sales@macquariedale.com.au macquariedale.com.au Visit Macquariedale and experience striking views and an award-winning range of certified organic and biodynamic wines, rich in flavour, full of colour and with a fabulous diversity of aromas (as well as low in sulphur preservatives) achieved through sustainable farming practices. Vineyard tours by arrangement. Daily 10am–5pm

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

CELLAR DOORS MOUNT VIEW • UPPER HUNTER • WOLLOMBI

BRIAR RIDGE VINEYARD

MOUNT VIEW ESTATE

PETERSONS WINES

593 MOUNT VIEW RD, MOUNT VIEW

502 MOUNT VIEW RD, MOUNT VIEW

552 MOUNT VIEW RD, MOUNT VIEW

This James Halliday red 5-star winery is a leading producer of iconic Hunter Valley wines, consistently winning awards. The charming cellar door offers wine tasting and sales under the watchful eye of winemaker Gwyn Olsen and the on-site function centre is ideal for special occasions. Daily 10am–5pm

Located in the picturesque Mount View region, offering highly awarded wines all handmade on-site. From vine to glass, Mount View Estate prides itself on producing exceptional boutique wines. But don’t take their word for it: go and taste the wines, experience the hospitality and enjoy that incredible view! Daily 10am–5pm

The family-owned Petersons Wines has been making award-winning wines for more than 30 years. Sitting among the rolling hills of Mount View, the cellar door has a spectacular backdrop with impressive views and friendly staff who will treat you to a taste of the current releases. Mon–Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 10am–5pm

SAVANNAH ESTATE

TALLAVERA GROVE VINEYARD

TWO RIVERS WINES

402 MOUNT VIEW RD, MOUNT VIEW

T 02 4990 6326 E wine@savannahestate.com.au savannahestate.com.au

749 MOUNT VIEW RD, MOUNT VIEW

T 02 4990 7535 E cellardoor@tallaveragrove.com.au tallaveragrove.com.au

2 YARRAWA RD, DENMAN

Cosy and inviting boutique cellar door with medal-winning wines at the gateway to Mount View. Taste a range of sparkling, dessert, red and white wines made from select parcels of fruit from the Hunter Valley and other regions on the verandah or indoors by the fire in winter. Mon–Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 10am–5pm

Nestled in the scenic hills of Mount View with breathtaking views over the Valley, this James Halliday 5-star winery offers single-vineyard, small production wines, including cult Italian varieties such as Vermentino and Sagrantino. All wines are available to enjoy over lunch at the adjoining Bistro Molines restaurant. Thu–Mon 10am–5pm

Escape to the tranquillity of the Upper Hunter at Two Rivers, near the picturesque village of Denman, just an hour’s drive from Pokolbin. Enjoy award-winning wines with a tasting platter filled with local produce while relaxing on the sun-drenched deck overlooking the new sandstone sculpture collection. Ancient topography, timeless beauty. Daily 11am–4pm

STONEHURST WINES

WOLLOMBI WINES

1840 WOLLOMBI RD, WOLLOMBI

WOLLOMBI RD, WOLLOMBI

Stonehurst believes that a great wine begins in the vineyard, producing award-winning wines from organically grown, hand-picked fruit. Enjoy a warm welcome at this boutique winery, beside the original convict road on an 1820s Napoleonic War veteran’s land grant. Daily 10am–5pm

Wollombi Wines boasts a scenic setting on the banks of Wollombi Brook, just 1km from the historic village of Wollombi. Savour winemaker Nick Paterson’s superb wines and enjoy a picnic and BBQ facilities under shady pergolas. Groups, kids and pets all welcome. Cellar Door open 6 days a week,10am to 5pm. Closed Tuesdays.

T 02 4990 3670 E cellardoor@briarridge.com.au briarridge.com.au

DEEPLY FASCINATING WITH RICH OVERTONES OF ENJOYMENT AND A LONG, MEMORABLE FINISH. 94

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

T 02 4990 3307 E sales@mtviewestate.com.au mtviewestate.com.au

T 02 4998 1576 E wines@stonehurst.com.au stonehurst.com.au

T 02 4990 1704 E sales@petersonswines.com.au petersonswines.com.au

T 02 6547 2556 E linda@tworivers.com.au tworivers.com.au

T 02 4998 3427 E orders@wollombiwines.com.au wollombiwines.com.au

5 Star Winery Halliday Wine Companion

OPEN DAILY 401-427 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin, NSW p 02 4998 7559 w b ro ke n w o o d . c o m . a u

Dine right on the edge of our picturesque vineyard with views from every table. Alfresco dining in the warmer months or in winter cosy up by the fire.

Dinner daily • Lunch Friday to Monday 1039 McDonalds Rd Pokolbin • amandas.com.au • 02 4998 7900

Home Grown Passion For Ian Scarborough, his passion for making great wine started over 30 years ago when he and wife Merralea planted the first vines at the Scarborough family vineyard overlooking the Hunter Valley. It’s a passion that saw Ian & Merralea personally delivering cases of wine to kitchens all over Sydney three times a week. Over shared meals with some of Sydney’s best-known chefs, relationships were forged, talking of his passion for producing

Scarborough Wine Co. 179 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin

Scarborough on Hermitage 972 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

a ubiquitous style of Hunter Valley Chardonnay, the Yellow Label Chardonnay.

Today you can taste Scarborough wines in two unique locations in the gorgeous Hunter Valley. When you drink Scarborough wine, you get more than a great wine, you become part of the family. Our Home. Your Wine.

www.scarboroughwine.com.au 1300 888 545 or cellar@scarboroughwine.com.au

Restaurants & cafes. WINERY/CELLAR DOOR

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100

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02 4990 9553

SUN

FREE WIFI

@ Tallavera Grove, 749 Mount View Rd, Mount View

MAP

BYO

02 6579 1372

AL FRESCO DINING

1238 Milbrodale Rd, Broke

DINNER

PHONE

LUNCH

ADDRESS

BREAKFAST

NAME

ACCOMMODATION

GET A TASTE FOR THE HUNTER VALLEY WAY OF LIFE.

BROKE Margan Winery & Restaurant

MOUNT VIEW Bistro Molines

LOVEDALE & NORTH ROTHBURY Emerson’s Cafe & Restaurant

@ Adina Vineyard, 492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 7029

Lovedale Smokehouse Cafe

64 Majors Ln, Lovedale

02 4930 7832

Redsalt Restaurant

@ Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, 430 Wine Country Dr, Lovedale

02 4991 0944

Sabor Tea Room

319 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale

1300 958 850

Tatler Tapas Cafe

@ Tatler Wines, 477 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 9139

The Deck Cafe

701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 9007

SAT–SUN

THU–MON 7 DAYS

100

MAP 1 K10

SAT-SUN

7 DAYS

100

N/A

SUN

THU–TUE

100

MAP 1 H12

7 DAYS

100

MAP 1 H12

101

MAP 1 F8

NULKABA, POKOLBIN & ROTHBURY Amanda’s on the Edge

@ Windsor’s Edge Vineyard, 1039 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

Bistro Vinden

@ Vinden Estate, 138 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin 02 4998 7410

Brokenback Bar

@ Estate Tuscany, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7288

7 DAYS

SAT-SUN

Cafe Enzo

@ Peppers Creek Village, Cnr Broke & Ekerts Rds, Pokolbin

02 4998 7233

7 DAYS

Epoche Lounge Bar

@ The Sebel Kirkton Park, 336 Oakey Creek Rd

02 4998 7680

7 DAYS

Esca Bimbadgen

@ Bimbadgen, 790 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 4666

EXP Restaurant

@ Oakvale Wines, 1596 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7264

Harrigan’s Irish Pub

2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 4300

Hunters Quarter

576 De Beyers Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7776

Il Cacciatore Restaurant

@ Hermitage Lodge, 609 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7639

IronBark Hill Cafe

@ Peter Drayton Wines, 694 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7085

Locavore Dining

@ Sebel Kirkton Park, 336 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7680

7 DAYS

Matilda Bay Brewhouse + Dining

@ Hunter Valley Resort, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7777

7 DAYS

Muse Kitchen

@ Keith Tulloch Winery, Cnr Hermitage & Deasys Rds, Pokolbin

Muse Restaurant

@ Hungerford Hill Wines, 2450 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

Oishii

FRI–MON

02 4998 7900

7 DAYS

SAT-SUN

101

MAP 1 I5

101

MAP 1 F2

101

MAP 1 J4

7 DAYS

101

MAP 1 M7

7 DAYS

FRI–SAT

101

MAP1 H7

FRI–SUN

WED–SAT

101

MAP1 H7

7 DAYS

101

MAP 1 J5

WED–SUN

THU-SAT

101

MAP 1 L5

7 DAYS

102

MAP 1 I7

N/A

MAP 1 F2

7 DAYS

102

MAP 1 M7

7 DAYS

102

MAP 1 F2

02 4998 7899

WED–SUN

SAT

102

MAP1 G3

02 4998 6777

SAT–SUN

WED–SAT

102

MAP1 J9

@ Roche Estate Complex, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rds, Pokolbin

02 4998 7051

7 DAYS

102

MAP 1 J6

Old Brickworks Brasserie

@ Potters Hotel Brewery Resort, Wine Country Dr, Nulkaba

02 4991 7922

7 DAYS

100

MAP 1 M11

Restaurant Botanica

@ Spicers Vineyards Estate, 555 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7229

SAT–SUN

5 DAYS

102

MAP 1 D2

RidgeView Restaurant

@ RidgeView Wines, 273 Sweetwater Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7332

FRI–SUN

THU–SUN

102

MAP 1 E4

Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar

@ Lambloch Estate, 2342 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

1300 958 939

THU–MON THU–MON

FRI–SAT

102

MAP 1 J9

7 DAYS

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

Restaurants & cafes. WINERY/CELLAR DOOR

PAGE

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LICENSED

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7 DAYS

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7 DAYS

AL FRESCO DINING

02 4998 6605

ACCOMMODATION

PHONE

Shop 11, Hunter Valley Gardens Village, 2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

DINNER

ADDRESS

Taste of the Country

LUNCH

NAME

BREAKFAST

GET A TASTE FOR THE HUNTER VALLEY WAY OF LIFE.

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NULKABA, POKOLBIN & ROTHBURY CONTINUED The Cellar Restaurant

Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7584

The Legends Grill

@ The Vintage Golf Club, Vintage Dr, Rothbury

02 4998 2213

The Mill Restaurant

@ Estate Tuscany, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7288

The Verandah Restaurant

@ Calais Estate, 151 Palmers Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7231

Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen

@ De Iuliis Wines, 1616 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6699

Al-Oi Thai Restaurant

17 Vincent St, Cessnock

02 4990 8666

7 DAYS

103

MAP 2 B3

Australia Hotel

136 Wollombi Rd, Cessnock

02 4990 1256

7 DAYS

103

MAP 1 P10

41–43 George St, Singleton

02 6572 1866

103

MAP 4 B3

MON–SAT

MON-SAT

103

MAP 1 J5

7 DAYS

103

MAP 1 H7

7 DAYS

SAT-SUN

7 DAYS

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MAP 1 F2

THU–SUN

103

MAP 1 I8

103

MAP 1 J2

7 DAYS

CESSNOCK

SINGLETON Worn Out Wares

WINERY/CELLAR DOOR

ACCOMMODATION

BYO

7 DAYS

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RUGS & ROLLS

Pick up some goodies from one of the Hunter Valley’s gourmet producers and head to a vineyard for a picnic or barbecue: Gemelli Estate

1 x Gas BBQ

Hermitage Road Cellars & Winery

2 x Gas BBQs

Kevin Sobels Wines

1 x Gas BBQ

McLeish Estate

4 x Gas BBQs

Pepper Tree Wines

Picnic Area

Petersons Wines

1 x Gas BBQ

Stonehurst Wines

Picnic Area

Tellace Wines

2 x Gas BBQs

Tyrrell’s Wines

3 x Electric BBQs

Wollombi Wines

2 x Gas BBQs

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

Families should also consider making tracks to Hunter Valley Gardens Village, which offers the biggest and best public barbecue and picnic area, featuring six electric barbecues and a children’s playground to keep the little ones happy.

Open 7 days breakfast and lunch â&#x20AC;˘ Bookings recommended Cnr Broke & Ekerts Rd Pokolbin â&#x20AC;˘ 4998 7233 www.enzohuntervalley.com.au

RESTAURANTS & CAFES BROKE • MOUNT VIEW • LOVEDALE • NULKABA

MARGAN WINERY & RESTAURANT

BISTRO MOLINES

EMERSON’S CAFE & RESTAURANT

1238 MILBRODALE RD, BROKE

@ TALLAVERA GROVE, 749 MOUNT VIEW RD, MOUNT VIEW T 02 4990 9553

@ ADINA VINEYARD, 492 LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

T 02 6579 1372 E restaurant@margan.com.au margan.com.au

E dine@bistromolines.com.au bistromolines.com.au

T 02 4930 7029 E info@emersonsrestaurant.com.au emersonsrestaurant.com.au

Savour the complete food and wine experience, with seasonal cuisine sourced locally and from Margan’s kitchen garden with estate-grown wines. Top 10 Best NSW Regional Restaurants 2014, Gourmet Traveller; Sustainable Restaurant of the Year, SMH GFG 2014; NSW Tourism Awards Hall of Fame. Lunch Fri–Sun 12–3pm, dinner Thu–Sat 6–9pm

Bistro Molines boasts spectacular views overlooking Mount View vineyards. Robert and Sally Molines take pleasure in offering French Provincial dishes combined with attentive, friendly service and beautiful surrounds. Awarded one chef’s hat Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide 2010–2014. Lunch Thu–Mon 12–3pm, dinner Fri–Sat 7–9pm

Emerson’s caters for hungry diners with hearty breakfasts, lunches and Modern Australian cuisine during dinner service, with the option of an eight-course degustation menu Thu–Sun nights. Awarded an Australian Good Food Guide chef’s hat in 2011, 2012 & 2013. Breakfast Sat–Sun 8–11am, lunch Wed–Sun 11am–3pm, dinner Thu–Sun 6–10pm

LOVEDALE SMOKEHOUSE CAFE

REDSALT RESTAURANT

SABOR TEA ROOM

64 MAJORS LN, LOVEDALE

@ CROWNE PLAZA HUNTER VALLEY, 430 WINE COUNTRY DR, LOVEDALE

319 WILDERNESS RD, LOVEDALE

T 02 4930 7832 E majorslane@bigpond.com majorslane.com Lovedale Smokehouse Cafe serves handmade artisanal charcuterie including smoked and cured meats, fish and cheese. Enjoy a relaxing lunch with a glass of estate-grown wine in the stunning courtyard complete with water features and vineyard views, or indoors surrounded by local artwork. Lunch Thu–Mon 10.30am–4pm

T 02 4991 0944 E redsalt.hunter@ihg.com crowneplazahuntervalley.com.au Redsalt was inspired by the fundamental flavours of red river salts and has an uncompromising focus on enhancing excellent produce, particularly meat, with beef sourced direct from Australia’s very best producers. Breakfast Mon–Fri 6.30–10am, Sat–Sun 6.30– 10.30am, dinner daily 6–10pm

T 1300 958 850 E sabortearoom@gmail.com sabortearoom.com.au Sabor Tea Room is the Hunter Valley’s premier tea house where you can enjoy the ultimate High Tea experience. Vintage tea sets and a selection of savoury and sweet delights will please both your eyes and your palate. Two tea sessions daily on weekends. Bookings essential. Sat–Sun 10.30am & 2.30pm

TATLER TAPAS CAFE

THE DECK CAFE LOVEDALE

OLD BRICKWORKS BRASSERIE

@ TATLER WINES, 477 LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

701 LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

@ POTTERS HOTEL BREWERY RESORT, WINE COUNTRY DR, NULKABA

Tatler Tapas Cafe serves generous tapas-style food in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Boasting a view of the spectacular Brokenback Range and 100 acres of vines from the al fresco dining area, it’s a popular choice for a casual lunch or a special occasion. Breakfast Sat–Sun 8–10.30am; lunch Fri–Sun 12–3pm; dinner Fri 5.30–8.30pm

The Deck Cafe, located at Gartelmann Wines in Lovedale, is a stylish restaurant-style cafe open for breakfast and lunch seven days a week. The cafe provides a diverse menu complemented by Garltelmann wines and a generous range of beverages, including Piazza D'oro coffee. Mon–Fri 8.30am–3.30pm, Sat–Sun 8am–3.30pm

T 02 4930 9139 E sales@tatlerwines.com tatlerwines.com

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T 02 4930 9007 E info@deckcafelovedale.com.au deckcafelovedale.com.au

T 02 4991 7922 E info@pottershbr.com.au pottershbr.com.au Family-friendly venue with large indoor/outdoor eating areas, lounge bar with unique tree table, kids’ playground and jumping castle on Sundays. Daily restaurant specials plus beer brewed on-site at Hunter Beer Co. Phone reception re courtesy bus. Daily, breakfast 7.30–10am, lunch 12–3pm, dinner 6–9pm

RESTAURANTS & CAFES POKOLBIN

AMANDA’S ON THE EDGE

BISTRO VINDEN

BROKENBACK BAR

@ WINDSOR’S EDGE VINEYARD, 1039 MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

@ VINDEN ESTATE, 138 GILLARDS RD, POKOLBIN

@ ESTATE TUSCANY, CNR HERMITAGE RD & MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7900 E dine@amandas.com.au amandas.com.au

T 02 4998 7410 E finewines@vindenestate.com.au vindenestate.com.au

T 02 4998 7288 E reservations@estatetuscany.com.au estatetuscany.com.au

Amanda’s on the Edge offers magnificent vineyard views from every table. Dine on delicious international and Modern Australian seasonal flavours by the log fire in winter, al fresco on the verandah or at lawn tables that are ideal for families with young children. Lunch Fri–Mon 12–3pm, dinner daily 5.30–9.30pm

At Bistro Vinden you can enjoy an al fresco lunch on the terrace overlooking the estate vineyard. The seasonal menu has a distinct focus on high-quality meals with incredible depth of flavour. Food is matched with highly awarded Vinden Estate Wines, available for tasting at the cellar door. Lunch Sat–Sun 12–3pm

CAFE ENZO

EPOCHE LOUNGE BAR

ESCA BIMBADGEN

@ PEPPERS CREEK VILLAGE, CNR BROKE & EKERTS RDS, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 7233 E cafeenzo@westnet.com.au

@ THE SEBEL KIRKTON PARK, 336 OAKEY CREEK RD, POKOLBIN

@ BIMBADGEN, 790 MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

Sip a Campos coffee while feasting on seasonal menus using homemade and locally grown produce. Cafe Enzo is known for its sandstone surrounds, relaxed al fresco dining and Victorian fireplace. Functions on request. Open for breakfast and lunch. Mon–Thu 9am–4pm, Fri 9am–4.30pm, Sat 8.30am–4.30pm, Sun 8am–4pm

Introducing Epoche Lounge Bar, the Hunter Valley's new home of cocktails, local wines and craft beer. Enjoy burgers and tapas in front of the roaring open fire or pizza straight from the outdoor wood-fired oven. Sun–Thu 11am–10pm, Fri–Sat noon–late

enzohuntervalley.com.au

EXP RESTAURANT @ OAKVALE WINES, 1596 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7264 E reservations@exprestaurant.com.au exprestaurant.com.au This hidden gem is chic and intimate with handcrafted local furniture and views overlooking the kitchen garden. Guests can sit along the bar and peer directly into the kitchen while interacting with chef Frank Fawkner and his team. Lunch Fri–Sun 12–3pm, dinner Wed–Sat 6–9pm

T 02 4998 7680 E h8797@accor.com sebelhuntervalley.com.au/epoche

HARRIGAN’S IRISH PUB & ACCOMMODATION 2090 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 4300 E enquiries@harrigans.com.au harrigans.com.au This family-friendly hotel offers excellent value meals with live entertainment every weekend and a jumping castle for the kids. Enjoy a pint of Guinness or select from the range of boutique Australian and imported beers. Daily, breakfast 7–10.30am, lunch 12–3pm, dinner 5.30–9pm

The casual Mediterranean menu includes wood-fired pizza and tapas, but you can also call in for coffee, cake and ice-cream, or cook your own barbecue lunch or dinner and enjoy the expansive vineyard and mountain views. Takeaway also available. Daily 12–9pmSat 8.30am–4.30pm, Sun 8am–4pm

T 02 4998 4666 E esca@bimbadgen.com.au bimbadgen.com.au

Dedicated to the art of food and wine matching, Esca’s Modern Australian cuisine and spectacular views make for a memorable dining experience. Winner of over 15 awards for excellence in its 12-year history, Esca exemplifies the unique nature of a winery restaurant. Lunch daily from 12pm, dinner Fri–Sat from 6pm

HUNTERS QUARTER 576 DE BEYERS RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7776 E info@hunterquarter.com huntersquarter.com HQ is a relaxed and elegant dining destination, located in the Cockfighter’s Ghost Vineyard in Pokolbin. With a private terrace overlooking the vines, it’s the perfect place to while away a few hours with family and friends, enjoying fantastic seasonal food. Lunch Wed–Sun 12–3.30pm, dinner Thu–Sat 6pm–late

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RESTAURANTS & CAFES POKOLBIN

IL CACCIATORE RESTAURANT

LOCAVORE DINING

@ HERMITAGE LODGE, 609 MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 7639

@ SEBEL KIRKTON PARK, 336 OAKEY CREEK RD, POKOLBIN

Il Cacciatore offers Northern Italian-inspired cuisine using fresh, local produce and authentic Italian ingredients. Dine in a relaxed atmosphere indoors or al fresco overlooking the reed-lined dam with friendly, attentive service. Takeaway pizzas and pastas from 5pm daily. Gnocchi-making classes on request. Dinner daily from 6pm; lunch for private functions only

A locavore is a person interested in eating food that is produced locally within 100 miles of home. The Farm, Forage and Graze menu features ingredients from the grounds at Sebel Kirkton Park and local Hunter Valley producers. Private dining room available for group bookings. Dinner daily from 6pm

MUSE KITCHEN

MUSE RESTAURANT

OISHII

@ KEITH TULLOCH WINERY, CNR HERMITAGE & DEASYS RDS, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 7899

@ HUNGERFORD HILL WINES, 2450 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 6777

@ ROCHE ESTATE COMPLEX, CNR BROKE & MCDONALDS RDS, POKOLBIN

Located at Keith Tulloch Winery, this Europeaninspired bistro is the little sister to Muse Restaurant at Hungerford Hill Wines. Inspired by seasonal produce and quality-controlled cooking, Muse Kitchen offers an award-winning casual dining experience for you to enjoy, relax and share. Lunch Wed–Sun 12–3pm, dinner Sat 6–9pm

Focused on delivering refined, seasonal produce with professional, intuitive service that strives to impress, comfort and connect, Muse is one of Australia’s finest regional restaurants. After seven successful years, multiple awards and thousands of delighted diners, Muse continues to deliver a memorable experience. Lunch Sat–Sun 12–3pm, dinner Wed–Sat 6.30–10pm

This Thai/Japanese restaurant offers an extensive menu including traditional favourites such as teriyaki chicken, Thai curries, sushi and sashimi. Dine inside the Asian-themed room or on the covered terrace overlooking the vines and architecturally designed amphitheatre. Takeaway available. Daily, lunch 11.30am–3pm, dinner 5.30–9.30pm

RESTAURANT BOTANICA

RIDGEVIEW RESTAURANT

@ SPICERS VINEYARDS ESTATE, 555 HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN T 02 6574 7229

@ RIDGEVIEW WINES, 273 SWEETWATER RD, POKOLBIN T 02 6574 7332

SABOR IN THE HUNTER DESSERT BAR

With stunning vineyard and mountain views, an award-winning wine list, a welcoming and passionate team, and an abundant kitchen garden, Restaurant Botanica offers intimate and relaxed regional dining at its best. Lunch Sat–Sun 12–3pm, dinner Wed–Sun from 6pm

RidgeView’s Mediterranean and Middle Easterninspired cuisine uses fresh seasonal produce from the on-site kitchen garden. All dishes – both modern and traditional Mezedhes and Cypriot Meze Feast – are designed to share, with an emphasis on food/wine pairing. Breakfast uses free-range eggs from the owner’s hens. Thu 12–8pm, Fri–Sat 9am–late, Sun 9am–8pm

E info@hermitagelodge.com.au ilcacciatore.com.au

E muse@musedining.com.au musedining.com.au

E reception.vineyards@spicersretreats.com spicersretreats.com/spicers-vineyards-estate

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T 02 4998 7680 E h8797-fb@accor.com sebelhuntervalley.com.au

E muse@musedining.com.au musedining.com.au

E dine@ridgeview.com.au ridgeview.com.au

MATILDA BAY BREWHOUSE + DINING @ HUNTER VALLEY RESORT, CNR HERMITAGE RD & MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 7777

E dining@hunterresort.com.au hunterresort.com.au

Offering bites, pizza and pasta, with all pasta made from scratch in the traditional Italian way. Sample the 12 craft brews, see the wine theatre, wine and cooking school, and the candymaking class. Dine in or takeaway. Daily, breakfast 7.30–9.30am, lunch 12–4pm, dinner 6pm–late

T 02 4998 7051 E info@oishii.com.au oishii.com.au

@ LAMBLOCH ESTATE, 2342 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 1300 958 939 E saborpokolbin@gmail.com saborinthehunter.com.au

Offering over 50 desserts paired with local wines. Indulge in the award-winning Portuguese chocolate mousse, individual decadent desserts, sweet gourmet products, gluten-free desserts, barista-made coffee and tea to dine-in or takeaway. Thu–Fri 10am–4.30pm, Sat 10am–9.30pm, Sun-Mon 10am–4.30pm

RESTAURANTS & CAFES POKOLBIN • ROTHBURY • CESSNOCK • SINGLETON

THE CELLAR RESTAURANT

THE MILL RESTAURANT

THE VERANDAH RESTAURANT

@ HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS VILLAGE, BROKE RD, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 7584 E thecellar@bigpond.com

@ ESTATE TUSCANY, CNR HERMITAGE RD & MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

@ CALAIS ESTATE, 151 PALMERS LN, POKOLBIN

The Cellar Restaurant specialises in rustic Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on quality steaks, as well as a range of other meats, poultry and fish, all cooked to your liking on the char-grill. Dine inside in the indoor garden setting or al fresco in the courtyard. Lunch Mon–Sat 12–3pm, dinner Mon–Fri 6.30–9pm & Sat 6–9pm

Savour fusion cuisine while enjoying panoramic vineyard and mountain views. Award-winning chef Emilio Llausas also offers quality catering for groups and weddings with exclusive use of the restaurant. Bookings recommended. Breakfast daily 8–10am, lunch Sat–Sun 12.30–4pm, dinner daily from 6pm

Located on the award-winning Calais Estate, The Verandah Restaurant has sweeping views over the vineyards and Brokenback Range. Enjoy all-weather dining on the verandah or inside by the fireplace on cold winter nights, plus a modern tapas-style menu showcasing the best local produce. Lunch Thu–Sun 12–4pm, dinner Thu–Sun from 6pm

THE LEGENDS GRILL

AL-OI THAI RESTAURANT

@ THE VINTAGE GOLF CLUB, VINTAGE DR, ROTHBURY

17 VINCENT ST, CESSNOCK

With its contemporary interior and welcoming ambience, Legends Grill is the place to unwind, relax and indulge. Enjoy the experience of savouring mouth-watering Australian steaks, local produce, premium wines and delicious cocktails while overlooking the magnificent golf course and Brokenback Range. Daily 7am–late

Traditionally Thai food is to be shared and Al-Oi Thai provides the perfect venue for sharing, whether it’s a romantic dinner or a celebration with family and friends. Al-Oi Thai is a family-run restaurant that uses only the best produce. Deliveries available. Lunch daily 11am–3pm, dinner Mon–Fri 4.45–10pm, Sat–Sun 4.30–10pm

AUSTRALIA HOTEL

WORN OUT WARES

136 WOLLOMBI RD, CESSNOCK

41–43 GEORGE ST, SINGLETON

the-cellar-restaurant.com.au

TWO FAT BLOKES GOURMET KITCHEN @ DE IULIIS WINES, 1616 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 6699 E info@twofatblokes.com.au twofatblokes.com.au

A European-style deli/cafe matching wine and beer with a menu that revolves around the deli, which is stocked with cheeses and smallgoods. Tasting platters, Swiss cheese and chocolate fondues, and a cheese and wine experience daily at 11am and 3pm (bookings essential). Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, Sat–Sun 7.30am–5pm

T 02 4998 7288 E reservations@estatetuscany.com.au estatetuscany.com.au

T 02 4998 2213 E reception@thevintage.com.au thevintage.com.au

T 02 4990 1256

Offering pub-style accommodation, this country hotel has an award-winning bistro (NSW AHA 2002/2003), caters specifically for big groups and has WiFi, full bar and TAB facilities, golf stay-and-play packages and more. AHA Best Traditional Bar NSW 2010. Lunch daily 12–2pm, dinner Sun–Thu 6–9pm, Fri–Sat 6–10pm

T 02 4998 7231 E bookings@verandahrestaurant.com.au verandahrestaurant.com.au

T 02 4990 8666 aloithai.com.au

T 02 6572 1866 wornoutwares.com.au

A relaxed cafe incorporating delicious food, old and new homewares, gifts and a florist – a favourite destination, meeting place and tourist attraction for locals and travellers alike. "Every inch a delight to the senses", according to Country Style magazine. Breakfast Mon–Fri 7–11.30am; Sat–Sun 8am–2pm, lunch Mon–Sat 11.30am–4pm, Sun 11.30am–2.30pm

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Gourmet. PHONE

MAP

Hunter Beer Co.

@ Potters Hotel Brewery Resort, Wine Country Dr, Nulkaba

02 4991 7922

104

MAP 1 M11

Hunter Distillery

1686 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6737

104

MAP 1 J3

Matilda Bay Brewhouse

@ Hunter Valley Resort, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7777

104

MAP 1 F2

Binnorie Dairy

@ Estate Tuscany, cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 6660

105

MAP 1 F2

Cocoa Nib

@ Keith Tulloch Wines, 982 Hermitage Rd (Cnr Deasys Rd), Pokolbin

02 4998 7350

105

MAP 1 G3

Hunter Valley Cheese Factory

@ McGuigans Complex, 447 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7744

105

MAP 1 J6

Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop

@ Roche Estate Complex, Pavilion G, 2144 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6713

105

MAP 1 J6

Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop

@ Pokolbin Village, 3/2188 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6960

105

MAP 1 J6

Lovedale Smokehouse

64 Majors Ln, Lovedale

02 4930 7832

105

MAP 1 H12

The Hunter Valley Coffee Roaster

@ Worthington's Vineyard, 409 Palmers Ln, Pokolbin

0408 420 190

105

MAP 1 H5

Tinklers Produce

53 Pokolbin Mountains Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7435

105

MAP 1 M4

Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen

@ De Iuliis Wines, 1616 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6699

103

MAP 1 J2

NAME

TOURS

ADDRESS

PAGE

FREE TASTINGS

FEAST ON LOCAL PRODUCE AND DISCOVER BOUTIQUE BEERS.

BREWERIES & DISTILLERIES

PRODUCE

FREE TASTING

TOURS

HUNTER BEER CO.

HUNTER DISTILLERY

MATILDA BAY BREWHOUSE

@ POTTERS HOTEL BREWERY RESORT, WINE COUNTRY DR, NULKABA

1686 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

@ HUNTER VALLEY RESORT, CNR HERMITAGE RD & MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

T 02 4991 7922 E info@pottershbr.com.au hunterbeerco.com Hunter Beer Co. runs brewery tours at 4pm Mon–Fri and noon and 4pm Sat–Sun. Head in to learn about how the beer is made or sit in the brewery room and enjoy a tasting paddle from the selection on tap. Daily 10am–5pm

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T 02 4998 6737 E info@hunterdistillery.com.au hunterdistillery.com.au Enjoy a tasting experience like no other at the Valley’s only certified organic distillery. Hunter Distillery uses premium-quality organic raw ingredients to produce an exceptional range of top-shelf spirits, including vodka, flavoured vodkas, gin, liqueurs, schnapps and specialty spirits. Daily 10am–5pm

T 02 4998 7777 E brewery@hunterresort.com.au hunterresort.com.au

What better way to finish a hard day of wine-tasting than with one of Matilda Bay Brewhouse’s 12 craft beers? Try the beer-tasting paddle with each of the brews, laze away the afternoon listening to great music or try something delicious off the blackboard menu. Daily 10am–late

GOURMET PRODUCE

BINNORIE DAIRY

COCOA NIB

HUNTER VALLEY CHEESE FACTORY

@ ESTATE TUSCANY, CNR HERMITAGE RD & MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

@ KEITH TULLOCH WINES, 982 HERMITAGE RD (CNR DEASYS RD), POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7350 E aymee@cocoanib.com.au cocoanib.com.au

@ MCGUIGANS COMPLEX, 447 MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 7744

E contact@huntervalleycheese.com.au huntervalleycheese.com.au

Simon Gough opened Binnorie Dairy in 2003 after making cheese in Europe and Victoria’s Yarra Valley. He creates hand-crafted soft cow and goat cheeses made from locally sourced milk, which are the gourmet choice in many local restaurants. Drop in for a free tasting. Tue–Sat 10am–5pm, Sun 10am–4pm

Located at Keith Tulloch Wines, Cocoa Nib boasts a beautiful array of handmade chocolates, confections, cakes and sweet treats. Come and relax and enjoy a locally roasted coffee, tea or indulge in one of the luxurious housemade hot chocolates or iced drinks. Wed–Mon 10am–5pm

Watch the cheesemakers through viewing windows, sample handmade cheese made on-site, and enjoy free cheesemaking talks daily at 11am and 3pm at this boutique cheesery. Plus, there’s a range of regional and housemade produce, cheeseboards and charcuterie for al fresco snacks. Daily 9am–5.30pm

HUNTER VALLEY SMELLY CHEESE SHOP

LOVEDALE SMOKEHOUSE

THE HUNTER VALLEY COFFEE ROASTER

T 02 4998 6660 E binnoriedairy@bigpond.com binnorie.com.au

64 MAJORS LN, LOVEDALE

@ ROCHE ESTATE COMPLEX, PAVILION G, 2144 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4930 7832 E majorslane@bigpond.com majorslane.com

Providores of the finest local and imported cheeses, gourmet foods and gelato, including their own product range. You can take the goodies home or sit down and enjoy a pizza, baguette or burger with a glass of local wine or beer. Daily 10am–5pm

Creators and providores of handmade artisanal charcuterie, including smoked seafood, cheese, lamb, beef, pork, poultry, game and sausages. The Gourmet Pantry is also stocked with cured meats, terrines, pates, olive oils, sauces, salad dressings, chutneys, jams and sweet treats. Tastings and smoking and curing classes available. Thu–Mon 10am–5pm

T 02 4998 6713 E info@smellycheese.net.au smellycheese.net.au

@ WORTHINGTON'S VINEYARD, 409 PALMERS LN, POKOLBIN

T 0408 420 190 E terissa@the propgroup.com.au thepropgroup.com.au Offers a cellar door coffee experience specialising in coffee tastings onsite. You can meet the roaster for an educational coffee experience or just sit back and relax with a freshly roasted cup of coffee made your favourite way. Sat–Sun 10am–5pm, weekdays by appointment

TINKLERS PRODUCE 53 POKOLBIN MOUNTAINS RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7435 E enjoy@tinklers.com.au tinklers.com.au

The Tinkler family has been farming for more than 60 years, growing an abundance of seasonal produce including table grapes, peaches, nectarines, avocados, figs, mixed citrus and vegetables. You can buy the home-grown, hand-picked produce fresh or there’s a wide range of jams and preserves. Daily 10am–5pm

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Tours. Almighty Tours & Transport

Hunter Valley

Around Sydney Tours

Hunter Valley

PAGE

SMALL GROUP TOURS

PHONE

LARGE GROUP TOURS

ADDRESS

All Around the Vines

TRANSFER SERVICES

NAME

SYDNEY PICK-UP

DISCOVER THE SECRETS OF THE HUNTER VALLEY.

MAP

0459 145 065

109

N/A

0401 827 568

N/A

0468 431 694

109

N/A

Best Tour

0437 149 612

109

N/A

Cheers Bus

0408 987 057

109

N/A

Country Trails Private Tours

0430 543 465

109

N/A

diVine tours

0414 858 671

109

N/A

Fine Wine Tours

0421 855 355

109

N/A

Gourmet Getaway Tours

0416 139 567

109

N/A

Grape Vine Tours

0437 451 742

109

MAP 1 O10 N/A

0431 810 548

N/A

Heidi's Hunter Valley Tours

Hunter Valley

0408 623 136

110

N/A

Hertz Rent A Car

1A Aberdare Rd, Cessnock

02 4991 2500

110

MAP 1 P11

Hunter Trikes

332 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4991 7533

110

MAP 1 J11

02 4996 4059

110

MAP 1 E15

02 4991 3655

110

N/A

0431 337 367

110

MAP 1 F2 N/A

Hall’s Private Transfers

Hunter Valley Cadillacs Hunter Valley Classic Carriages Hunter Valley Horses

@ Hunter Valley Resort, 917 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6757

N/A

Hunter Valley Tours

Cessnock

0456 737 888

110

N/A

Hunter Valley Tours 4U

Hunter Valley

0488 190 884

N/A

Hunter Valley Vine Link

02 4930 7689

110

N/A

Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Tours

02 9357 5511

110

N/A

Hunter Vineyard Tours

02 4991 1659

111

N/A N/A

Hunter Valley Private Tours by Wendt on Tours

iHop Hunter Valley

Hunter Valley

0455 535 035

N/A

Off the Vine Wine Tours

Hunter Valley

0499 300 467

N/A

02 6571 1600

111

MAP 1 B0 N/A

Silver Service Limousines

0408 987 788

111

Tastes Of The Hunter Wine Tours

0403 001 154

111

N/A

TexTours

0410 462 540

111

MAP 1 K10

Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Tours

0414 316 859

111

N/A

Vineyard Shuttle Service

02 4991 3655

111

N/A

Wine Country Limousines

02 4990 2852

N/A

MAP 1 Q8 N/A

SydneyDriver.com

Sydney

02 9484 0477

112

Wine D Road Tours

Hunter Valley

0437 543 078

112

N/A

Zepher Tours

5/14 Frederick St, Bondi

0406 757 295

112

N/A

Wine Country Tours

SYDNEY PICK-UP

REMARKABLE BLEND OF UNIQUE EXPERIENCES. A

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HUNTER VALLEY GUIDED WINERY TOURS

Cheers Bus offers flexible full and half day tours visiting five star cellar doors with affordable lunch options, The Vodka Distillery, Cheese and Chocolate tastings, 4WD Eco tour, 13 and 20 seat buses available instant online bookings. Corporate Events | Golf Packages | Restaurant Transfers & Concerts Transfers

Night tour to see the nocturnal wildlife

Sydney | Central Coast | Newcastle | Hunter Valley | 7 days

M 0408 987 057 • E book@cheersbus.com W cheersbus.com

HUNTER VALLEY HORSES

Up ! y d Gid

iHop the Hunter Day & Night Tours!

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus – Customise your own Hunter Valley Tour experience, choosing from a timetable of 14 Stops and over 40 venues to visit – exploring at your own pace! MasterCLASS the Hunter – Don’t just Taste - Learn and Create with this “Hands-On” Masterclass Tour as you discover and uncover Australia’s iconic wine region – the locals way!

Fly ‘n’ Hop – Get a birds eye view from the sky, and up close and personal on the ground exploring Pokolbin on a scenic air and land adventure!

• Horseback Riding • Horse Drawn Carriage Wine Tours • Corporate Groups • Private Charters • Weddings • Romantic Tours

0431 337 367 www.huntervalleyhorses.com.au

Tour by Night – Savour the Hunter after dark on a culinary and educational adventure offering; Wine and Cheese Lovers Progressive Dinner or Beeries and Foodies Experience!

PH 0455 535 035 explore@ihophuntervalley.com.au www.ihophuntervalley.com.au

TOURS

ALL AROUND THE VINES

AROUND SYDNEY TOURS

BEST TOUR

Join All Around the Vines and tour the picturesque Hunter Valley on a half- or full-day wine tour. The company caters for small or large groups, runs private tailor-made tours, golf packages, and cheese, chocolate and olive tours. Restaurant, social functions and airport transfers also available. Daily

Wildlife, wine, distillery, local food. Enjoy morning tea and a selection of Aboriginal bush tucker at a wildlife park, then arrive in the Hunter Valley and visit three boutique wineries, a distillery, and taste local cheese and chocolate. Tours from Sydney (8am–6.45pm) and the Hunter Valley (11am– 4.30pm). Daily

Family-owned and operated, Best Tour has been running winery tours since 2001. For a great day out, hop aboard the Best Tour bus and join a small-group tour that showcases the best of the Hunter Valley Wine Country, including tastings of some benchmark wines. Bookings essential

COUNTRY TRAILS PRIVATE TOURS

DIVINE TOURS

132 ABERDARE RD, CESSNOCK

Cheers Bus offers flexible full- and half-day tours visiting five-star cellar doors with affordable lunch options, Hunter Distillery vodka tastings, cheese and chocolate tastings and 4WD eco tours. 13- and 20-seat buses available with instant online bookings. Corporate events, golf packages, restaurant and concert transfers. Daily

Country Trails offers small-group, private Hunter Valley wine tours from Sydney. Guests can follow a standard itinerary or request a tailored food and wine experience. Optional cheese, chocolate and craft beer tastings. Family friendly with day and overnight tours available. Luxury Mercedes tour vehicle. Daily

FINE WINE TOURS

M 0459 145 065 E enquiries@allaroundthevines.com.au allaroundthevines.com.au

CHEERS BUS M 0408 987 057 E book@cheersbus.com cheersbus.com

M 0468 431 694 E info@aroundsydneytours.com.au aroundsydneytours.com.au

M 0430 543 465 E info@countrytrails.com.au countrytrails.com.au

M 0437 149 612 E besttour@bigpond.com besttour.com.au

M 0414 858 671 E info@divinetours.com.au divinetours.com.au Offering gourmet wine tours for small groups including restaurant lunch, wine tasting, cheese and chocolate tasting, commentary and a behind-the-scenes winery tour to make the day informative and fun. Private tours with exclusive use of the bus and an itinerary tailored to you are available on request. Daily

M 0421 855 355 E info@finewinetours.net finewinetours.net

GOURMET GETAWAY TOURS

M 0416 139 567 E info@gourmetgetawaytours.com.au gourmetgetawaytours.com.au

GRAPE VINE TOURS

Discover, learn and enjoy with Fine Wine Tours. This tour company offers guided educational wine appreciation tours of the Hunter Valley and other regions within NSW/ACT. Specialises in small readily formed groups of 10–20 guests, but caters for larger groups on request. On request

Small group and private full-day tours from Sydney with breakfast and progressive lunch. Enjoy Australian-inspired delicacies like barramundi, barbecued kangaroo and learn to roll sushi on location, paired with fine wines from the region’s best boutique wineries. Tour is limited to 14 people. Mon, Wed & Sat 7am–5.30pm

Grape Vine Tours is family owned and operated out of the Hunter Valley, and is committed to providing you with the most enjoyable wine tour experience, whether you’re completely new to wine or a wine connoisseur. Daily

M 0437 451 742 E info@grapevinetours.com.au grapevinetours.com.au

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TOURS

HEIDI'S HUNTER VALLEY TOURS

HERTZ RENT A CAR

HUNTER TRIKES

HUNTER VALLEY

1A ABERDARE RD, CESSNOCK

332 LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

Heidi's is a boutique wine tour company offering a new level of sophistication and service in the Hunter Valley. Relax and enjoy the wineries with your own private car and driver for the day! New, stylish 4WD vehicle. Fully flexible itineraries. Also providing restaurant transfers, airport transfers. Daily

Explore the Hunter Valley at your own pace with a Hertz rental car. Hertz offers competitive rates, one-way rentals, delivery to your hotel, hatches, sedans, wagons and buses, and you can earn Virgin Australia frequent flyer points. The friendly team is waiting to assist you. Also covers Maitland. Mon–Fri 8am–5pm, Sat 8am–12pm

There are wine tours of the Hunter Valley... and then there are wine tours of the Hunter Valley that involve you roaring around the countryside on a trike looking awesome. Relaxing picnic lunches, evening cruises or the fastest wine tour in the Valley. The choice is yours. Daily

HUNTER VALLEY CADILLACS

HUNTER VALLEY CLASSIC CARRIAGES

HUNTER VALLEY HORSES

T 0408 623 136 E heidi@heidishuntervalley.com.au heidishuntervalley.com.au

T 02 4996 4059 E cruise@huntervalleycadillacs.com.au huntervalleycadillacs.com.au

T 02 4991 2500 E hertzcessnock@bigpond.com hertz.com.au

T 02 4991 3655 E tours@huntervalleyclassiccarriages. com.au huntervalleyclassiccarriages.com.au

Private and exclusive wine-tasting tours. Fun, friendly and unique, a tour in a 1960 Cadillac convertible or 1958 Cadillac limousine is the ultimate way to enjoy all the Hunter Valley has to offer. Rated 5 stars on TripAdvisor. Daily

Clip-clop your way along tree-lined back roads of Pokolbin in unique old-style covered wagons or Victorian and Landau carriages. Offering full- or half-day general tours for couples or groups, plus exclusive tours for two to four guests. Family horse-drawn carriage rides and wedding carriage hire available. Daily

HUNTER VALLEY TOURS

HUNTER VALLEY VINE LINK

CESSNOCK

M 0456 737 888 E info@hvtours.com.au hvtours.com.au Hunter Valley Tours customises unique tours to suit your taste in wines and visits award-winning boutique cellar doors where you are served by the winemakers. The on-board fridges have complimentary water. Full- and half-day tours, restaurant and airport transfers are available. Daily.

110

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

T 02 4930 7689 E bradley@vinelink.com.au vinelink.com.au

Tour operator Bradley Garrett has 40 years’ experience in food and wine and it shows. His tours are laced with relevant information and useful hints to help build your confidence, including how to interpret wine label info, food and wine matching tips and more. Daily 9.30am–5.30pm

T 02 4991 7533 E ride@huntertrikes.com.au huntertrikes.com.au

@ HUNTER VALLEY RESORT, 917 HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

M 0431 337 367 E hvhorseriding@yahoo.com.au huntervalleycarriages.com.au A ride on the horse or a drink in the carriage, it’s fun for the kids and good for the marriage! Offering horseriding, pony rides, full- and half-day horse and carriage wine tours, private charters and wedding carriage hire. Daily 9am–5pm, bookings essential

HUNTER VALLEY WINE TASTING TOURS & TRANSFERS T 02 9357 5511 E info@huntervalleywinetastingtours.com.au huntervalleywinetastingtours.com.au

Specialists in small, personal day tours of the Hunter Valley wineries in luxury Mercedes-Benz mini-coaches. Daily 10am-4pm wine tours include wine tastings at a selection of five cellar doors, lunch options and visits to cheese and chocolate outlets. Half-day tours and restaurant transfers available. Daily 10am–4pm

TOURS

HUNTER VINEYARD TOURS

SILVER SERVICE LIMOUSINES

SYDNEYDRIVER.COM

Hunter Vineyard Tours is a family-owned and operated company that specialises in winery tours with great commentary and personal service. It also offers transfers for conference and incentive tours, social events, excursions and sporting trips, as well as airport and restaurant transfers. Daily (closed Good Friday & Xmas Day)

Silver Service Limousines provides transfer services and private wine tours by sedan, minibus or stretch limousine. Coordinators Derek and Dave have many years of experience as a cellar door manager and assistant winemaker, which ensures you have a unique tour every time you visit. Daily 24 hours

Sydney Driver is a private and personal door-to-door hire car and chauffeur service established 2004. Offering a high level of sophistication and service, with your own private first-class sedan or luxury minibus for a Hunter Valley day tour. Daily

TASTES OF THE HUNTER WINE TOURS

TEXTOURS

T 02 4991 1659 E tours@huntervineyardtours.com.au huntervineyardtours.com.au

T 0403 001 154 E tastesofthehunterwinetours@gmail.com tastesofthehunterwinetours.com.au Full-day tours from Sydney (with pick-ups in the Hunter Valley), private group tours (design your own!) and concert transfers. Join Tastes Of The Hunter Wine Tours in their luxury tour bus (leather seats, DVD player, sound system) for a food and wine adventure with a fresh, contemporary approach. Thu–Sun 7am–7pm

T 02 6571 1600 E admin@taxico.com.au taxico.com.au

M 0410 462 540 E info@textours.com.au textours.com.au Small-group specialist (maximum 12 people) offering comprehensive and informative tours. Enjoy structured group tastings at each vineyard, cheese and olive oil tastings, as well as chocolate and fudge tastings. A casual and complete experience that only a TexTour can deliver. Daily

SYDNEY T 0408 987 788 E info@sydneydriver.com sydneydriver.com

TWO FAT BLOKES GOURMET TOURS

M 0414 316 859 E info@twofatblokes.com.au twofatblokes.com.au The Hunter Valley’s No. 1 tour operator – awarded a Certificate of Excellence for the past four years by TripAdvisor. Offering full- and half-day snapshot tours, or tailor a tour to suit your needs. Small groups only (2–10 guests). Daily (closed Good Friday, Xmas, Boxing & New Year’s Day)

HOW AN HOUR

PRESSING GRAPES

VINEYARD SHUTTLE SERVICE

T 02 4991 3655 E tours@vineyardshuttle.com.au vineyardshuttle.com.au Relax and enjoy the best the Hunter Valley has to offer in air-conditioned comfort with daily guided tours. Visit wineries of your choice or leave it up to Vineyard Shuttle Service to show you the highlights. Restaurant shuttle service, airport transfers and wedding guest transfers available. Daily

PRODUCED A VINTAGE YEAR FROM THE

SALES TEAM. winecountry.com.au

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

111

TOURS

WINE COUNTRY TOURS

WINE D ROAD TOURS

T 02 9484 0477 E info@winecountrytours.com.au winecountrytours.com.au

T 0437 543 078 E dan@winedroadtours.com.au winedroadtours.com.au

Small-group specialist with tours from Sydney or within the vineyards hosted by experienced winemaker Richard Everett. Richard conducts private guided tastings at the region’s most interesting wineries. Morning tea at Peppers with lunch options including Muse Kitchen or Esca Bimbadgen. Private tours and larger groups on request. Daily

Spend your day at hand-selected wineries being guided through their offerings in private tastings. Travel in comfort stopping for a beautiful restaurant lunch, some Hunter Valley cheese tasting and finish with an optional beer tasting. Limited to 11 guests to keep your tour personal. Daily, bookings essential

20% OFF! When you mention this advert*

Daily Sunrise Balloon Flight Adventures over the Hunter Valley.

on Flights Sunrise Ballo

All Flights conclude with a Champagne Breakfast

Exclusiv e Fligh ts Availa ble

To book your flight contact

1300 723 279 www.balloonaloft.com

* Discounts apply to full priced flight vouchers and gift vouchers only.

112

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ZEPHER TOURS 5/14 FREDERICK ST, BONDI

M 0406 757 295 E info@zephertours.com.au zephertours.com.au Zepher Tours is a fun, new Hunter Valley experience. Emphasising great music and no boring commentary. Wine, cheese, chocolate and organic vodka tastings. Group tours, private tours, Hunter Valley music events. Tours run from Sydney (8am–6.30pm) and the Hunter Valley (10am–4pm). Daily

A little birdie told me ... the perfect wine country dining experience executive chef jean marc-pollet has created a menu driven by the fusion of classic french cuisine with local, seasonal australian produce including produce from his privately owned farm.

dinner 7 nights • lunch weekends

.... it ’s magic!

Lunch: Thursday - Monday Dinner: Friday - Saturday Open for group bookings by special arrangement Tel: (02) 4990 9553 www.bistromolines.com.au

corner broke and mcdonalds roads, pokolbin, hunter valley reservations ph 4998 2000

• Brilliant selection of award-winning estate wines • Delicious olive products processed on site at the olive mill • Emerson’s Restaurant inspirational cuisine • Fabulous accommodation with vineyard views • Indulge yourself at Hunter Valley Reflections Day Spa

...

a destination in itself

492 LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE 2325 | 02 4930 7473 | www.adinavineyard.com.au

Experiences. ADDRESS

PHONE

PAGE

FREE WIFI

ENJOY A RANGE OF ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS.

MAP

Aqua Golf & Putt Putt

@ Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7896

115

MAP 1 J5

Diff-Rent Cycles

Shop 17, Hunter Valley Gardens Village, 2090, Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7191

N/A

Hunter Wine Theatre

@ Hunter Valley Resort, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7777

115

MAP 1 F2

NSW Segway Tours

@ Hunter Valley Resort, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

1300 465 636

115

MAP 1 F2

Ogishi Craft Workshops & Gallery

540 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale

02 4998 7979

115

MAP 1 H9

Pokolbin Gallery & Mistletoe Sculpture Garden

771 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7770

115

MAP 1 F2

Cessnock Racecourse

Racecourse Rd, Cessnock

02 4961 1573

N/A

MAP 1 R11

Hunter Valley Gardens

2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 4000

115

MAP 1 J5

Roche Estate

Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rds, Pokolbin

02 4998 4000

115

MAP 1 J6

Wollombi Tavern

2994 Great North Rd, Wollombi

02 4998 3261

115

MAP 1 S2

Meeting @ Peterson House, Broke Rd, Pokolbin

1300 723 279

116

MAP 1 J9

1800 818 191

116

MAP 1 J9

Meeting @ Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens, 2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4991 7533

116

MAP 1 J6

Hunter Valley Wine, Cooking & Candy School

@ Hunter Valley Resort, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7777

116

MAP 1 F2

Majors Lane Cooking School

64 Majors Ln, Lovedale

02 4930 7832

116

MAP 1 H12

The Cooking School

@ Estate Tuscany, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7288

116

MAP 1 F2

Vintage Dr, Rothbury

02 4998 2208

116

MAP 1 H7

NAME ACTIVITIES

ARTS & CRAFTS

ATTRACTIONS

BALLOON FLIGHTS Balloon Aloft Balloon Safaris Wine Country Ballooning

COOKING

GOLF The Vintage Golf Club

HORSERIDING Chapman Valley Horse Riding

7054 Putty Rd, Howes Valley

02 6579 4593

N/A

MAP 1 I00

Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures

288 Talga Rd, Rothbury

02 4930 7111

116

MAP 1 F11

Australian Alpaca Barn

1946 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6669

117

MAP 1 J4

Come What May

@ Calais Estate, 151 Palmers Ln, Pokolbin

0400 747 072

117

MAP 1 I8

Handmade Hunter Markets

@ Kevin Sobels Wines, 5 Halls Rd, Pokolbin

02 4936 6726

N/A

MAP1 J8

Hunter Valley Christmas Shop

Shop 16, Hunter Valley Gardens Village, 2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6834

N/A

MAP 1 J5

Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village

2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 4000

117

MAP 1 J5

Lovedale Antiques Old Wares & Gallery

820 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 7239

117

MAP 1 G13

Mortels Sheepskin Factory

1 Weakleys Dr, Thornton

02 4966 0990

117

MAP 1 E15

Pokolbin Village

2188 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7670

117

MAP 1 J6

Wine Glass Gallery

Shop 3, Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6888

N/A

MAP 1 J5

Ye Olde General Store Pokolbin

Shop 17, Hunter Valley Gardens Village, 2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7191

N/A

MAP 1 J5

Bhutra Thai Massage

185 Wollombi Rd, Cessnock

02 4991 2630

118

MAP 2 B3

Château Élan Spa

Vintage Dr, Rothbury

02 4998 2500

118

MAP 1 H7

Golden Door Spa Elysia

165 Thompsons Rd, Pokolbin

02 4993 8500

118

MAP 1 K4

Heavenly Hunter Massage Centre

@ Hunter Valley Resort, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

0438 010 359

N/A

MAP 1 F2

Soul Temple

Hunter Valley

0404 144 529

N/A

Spa Anise

@ Spicers Vineyards Estate, 555 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7229

118

MAP 1 D2

Thai Nature Massage, Cessnock

40 Cumberland St, Cessnock

02 4991 3331

118

MAP 2 D5

The Skin Salon Medispa

Rear 2/125 Vincent St, Cessnock

02 4990 1918

118

MAP 2 D4

Ubika Spa

@ Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, 430 Wine Country Dr, Lovedale

02 4991 0959

118

MAP1 K10

SHOPPING

SPAS

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EXPERIENCES ACTIVITIES • ARTS & CRAFTS • ATTRACTIONS

AQUA GOLF & PUTT PUTT

HUNTER WINE THEATRE

NSW SEGWAY TOURS

@ HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS VILLAGE, BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

@ HUNTER VALLEY RESORT, CNR HERMITAGE RD & MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

Hit golf balls into a beautiful lake and land them in the target net to win cash or vouchers to restaurants, cellar doors and activities. You can also challenge family and friends to 18 holes of mini golf on the picturesque putt putt course. Golf club hire is free. Daily 9.30am–4.30pm

Watch grapes being harvested, see the winemaking process and learn about the Hunter Valley’s wine heritage up on the big screen. After the 15-minute show, up come the lights and it’s down to the business of tasting a bracket of Hunter Valley wines. Daily, 11am and 2pm (closed Xmas Day)

Experience the fun of riding on your very own Segway PT while being guided through the scenic landscape and world-renowned vineyards of this historic region. Ideal for families, friends and corporate groups, it’s new, it’s different, it’s an experience not to be missed! Daily, bookings essential

OGISHI CRAFT WORKSHOPS & GALLERY

POKOLBIN GALLERY & MISTLETOE SCULPTURE GARDEN

HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS

540 WILDERNESS RD, LOVEDALE

771 HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7896 E aquagolf@golftothemax.com.au golftothemax.com.au

T 02 4998 7777 E wines@hunterresort.com.au hunterresort.com.au

T 02 4998 7979 E info@ogishi.com.au ogishi.com.au

T 02 4998 7770 E sales@mistletoewines.com.au pokolbingallery.com.au

Book in for a glassblowing lesson or kite-making and flying workshop for a fun and creative experience that will put a smile on your face. This gallery exhibits and sells Setsuko Ogishi’s glass, as well as a variety of Australian-made fine crafts. Fri-Mon 11am-4pm

Pokolbin Gallery and Mistletoe Sculpture Garden are located in the grounds of Mistletoe Winery. Unique collectable art, sculptures, internal and external, paintings in all media, photography, ceramics and exclusive handmade jewellery are all on exhibit and available for purchase. Daily 10am–6pm

T 1300 465 636 E info@eastcoastxperiences.com.au eastcoastxperiences.com.au

2090 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 4000 E welcome@hvg.com.au hvg.com.au Winner of NSW Best Tourist Attraction and inducted into the NSW Tourism Hall of Fame, Hunter Valley Gardens is exquisite. Explore 10 internationallythemed feature gardens over 60 acres, enjoy garden talks and annual family events such as the Christmas Lights Spectacular, or plan your perfect wedding. Daily 9am–5pm (closed Dec 25)

EXPLORE THE VALLEY WITH OUR

ROCHE ESTATE CNR BROKE & MCDONALDS RDS, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 4000 tempustwo.com.au

Roche Estate is a premier concert venue attracting international and national artists alike. Experience exceptional fine dining, award-winning wines, signature cocktails and spirits, local gourmet produce and a sophisticated function room all in one exclusive venue. Check with the individual businesses for trading hours

WOLLOMBI TAVERN 2994 GREAT NORTH RD, WOLLOMBI

T 02 4998 3261 E wollombitavern@bigpond.com wollombitavern.com.au This family-friendly country pub is home of the famed Dr Jurd’s Jungle Juice. It has a bistro open daily for lunch, and dinner Friday and Saturday, an open fire and a wraparound verandah overlooking Wollombi Brook. Self-contained, log cabin accommodation is available, including single nights on weekends. Daily Sun–Thu 10am–8pm, Fri–Sat 10am–10pm

MAP & TOURING GUIDE. PAGE 137

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EXPERIENCES

BALLOON FLIGHTS • COOKING • GOLF • HORSERIDING

BALLOON ALOFT MEETING @ PETERSON HOUSE, BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 1300 723 279 E balloons@balloonaloft.com balloonaloft.com

Experience a balloon flight over the vineyards with the award-winning Balloon Aloft, followed by a gourmet breakfast and bubbles at Peterson House. The most experienced hot-air balloon operator in Australia has been offering daily sunrise flights for more than 35 years. Awarded TripAdvisor’s 2015 Certificate of Excellence. Daily sunrise flights

BALLOON SAFARIS

T 1800 818 191 E flights@balloonsafaris.com.au balloonsafaris.com.au Enjoy panoramic views of Wine Country from a Balloon Safaris hot-air balloon. This award-winning local operator uses local pilots with local knowledge and boasts a 100 per cent safety record. Features modern, colourful balloons, VIP and group flights, in-flight photos and optional gourmet breakfast. Daily sunrise flights

WINE COUNTRY BALLOONING MEETING @ MERCURE RESORT HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS, 2090 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4991 7533 E info@winecountryballooning.com.au winecountryballooning.com.au Keep it special! Fly with the Hunter Valley's original boutique balloon flight company, which guarantees no more than 10 people ballooning on any morning. Come fly with Daren, the region’s most experienced full-time local pilot. VIP flights, photos, videos and breakfast all available. Daily sunrise flights

HUNTER VALLEY WINE, COOKING & CANDY SCHOOL

MAJORS LANE COOKING SCHOOL

THE COOKING SCHOOL

@ HUNTER VALLEY RESORT, CNR HERMITAGE RD & MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

E majorslane@bigpond.com majorslane.com

E reservations@estatetuscany.com.au estatetuscany.com.au

T 02 4998 7777 E events@hunterresort.com.au hunterresort.com.au

Take part in a fun, hands-on class and learn a new skill, be it a daily two-hour wine or cooking school, candymaking class, grape stomping or craft beer-making tutorial. Minimum numbers apply. Daily, bookings essential

64 MAJORS LN, LOVEDALE T 02 4930 7832

Have fun and be inspired by a hands-on, outdoor Asian cooking class on a beautiful vineyard. Learn how to balance the fundamental flavours of Asian cuisine as you prepare and enjoy a wonderful feast featuring Hunter Valley produce. Thai, Vietnamese, Indonesian and Sichuan classes available. Sat 10am–1pm, smoking and curing classes also available

THE VINTAGE GOLF CLUB VINTAGE DR, ROTHBURY

T 02 4998 2208 E golf@thevintage.com.au thevintage.com.au Tee off at the Hunter Valley’s prestigious Greg Norman-designed 18-hole championship golf course, which is ranked among the best in Australia and ideal for golfers of all levels. Facilities include a fully stocked golf shop, Spike Bar, Cafe and Grill. Stay & Play packages available. Daily from 7am

116

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

@ ESTATE TUSCANY, CNR HERMITAGE RD & MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 7288

Cook up a storm with friends, family, work colleagues or a great idea for your hens party; book The Cooking School at Estate Tuscany. This hands-on cooking school is for groups of two people and upwards. Brilliant fun, educational and team building. By appointment

HUNTER VALLEY HORSE RIDING & ADVENTURES

288 TALGA RD, ROTHBURY T 02 4930 7111 E ride@huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au

Stay and play at Hill Top, a 300-acre property famed for its friendly horses and scenic trail rides – from pony and picnic rides to romantic sunset rides. Enjoy guesthouse and villa accommodation, spectacular Valley views, kangaroos, hiking and hayrides to feed the farm animals. Daily 8am–sunset

EXPERIENCES SHOPPING

AUSTRALIAN ALPACA BARN

COME WHAT MAY

1946 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

@ CALAIS ESTATE, 151 PALMERS LN, POKOLBIN

The Australian Alpaca Barn specialises in quality Australian alpaca fashion, homewares and accessories. Discover the luxury, the softness and the lightness of alpaca by visiting the Australian Alpaca Barn at Peppers Creek Village or the new outlet in the Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village. Daily 10am–5pm

Located on Calais Estate, this homewares and gift shop combines vintage treasures, unique modern pieces and handmade specialties. The collection has many unusual and unique items that help make your house a home, ranging from locally made soaps to unique furniture. Thu–Sun 10am–5pm or by appointment

LOVEDALE ANTIQUES OLD WARES & GALLERY

MORTELS SHEEPSKIN FACTORY

POKOLBIN VILLAGE

1 WEAKLEYS DR, THORNTON

2188 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 6669 E sales@australianalpaca.com australianalpaca.com

820 LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

T 02 4930 7239 E lovedaleantiques@bigpond.com Lovedale Antiques Old Wares & Gallery is an antique store with a difference. It has plenty of genuine, unusual and interesting antiques, together with many collectables and artworks. Visit this collector’s paradise for a glimpse into the past. Fri–Sun (and some public holidays) 10am–4pm

M 0400 747 072 E info@comewhatmay.com.au comewhatmay.com.au

T 02 4966 0990 E allaboutsheepskins@mortels.com.au The Mortel family has been making sheepskin products since 1958. Visit Mortels purpose-built facility for a fully guided factory tour. Watch and learn how their famous UGG boots are made and enjoy coffee or lunch at the cafe or browse the Sheep’s Back Museum. Mon–Fri 8.30am–5pm, Sat 9am–2pm, Sun 10am–2pm

HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS SHOPPING VILLAGE 2090 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 4000 E welcome@hvg.com.au hvg.com.au Located next to the Gardens in the heart of Pokolbin, the Village features boutique shops, restaurants, essential services such as a pharmacy and more. Visit the Aqua Golf driving range or enjoy the BBQ facilities and children’s playground. Daily 10am–5pm (check individual store trading hours)

T 02 4998 7670 E relax@pokolbinvillage.com.au pokolbinvillage.com.au The Pokolbin Village complex in the heart of Wine Country has something for everyone. Explore the range of specialty stores selling chocolate, cheese, homewares and jewellery, or enjoy relaxed dining at the restaurant and general store. Self-contained and hotel-style accommodation is available. Daily, breakfast from 8am, shopping from 10am

WHY DRIVE YOUR SELF ? BOOK A TOUR OR TRANSFER ONLINE.

winecountry.com.au

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

117

EXPERIENCES SPAS

BHUTRA THAI MASSAGE

CHÂTEAU ÉLAN SPA

GOLDEN DOOR SPA ELYSIA

185 WOLLOMBI RD, CESSNOCK

VINTAGE DR, ROTHBURY

165 THOMPSONS RD, POKOLBIN

Feel your body relax and your thoughts drift away at this Thai massage spa, only a few minutes from Wine Country. Customised services for your romantic spa getaway, honeymoon, anniversary or just relieve muscle tension from your travels. This treatment is for you. Daily 9am–9pm

Relaxation, rejuvenation, recuperation – whatever your reason for visiting the Spa at Château Élan Hunter Valley, it’s dedicated to your peace of mind and physical wellbeing. The Spa has highly trained staff and a large range of indulgent treatments and products to cater to your needs. Daily 9am–7pm

The Golden Door Spa Elysia is a haven of relaxation and healing located within Golden Door’s Health Retreat. The world-class spa boasts 26 treatment rooms, a spacious relaxation lounge and complimentary steam rooms and spa baths, all created for you to take time out, relax and rebalance. Daily 9am–6pm

SPA ANISE

THAI NATURE MASSAGE, CESSNOCK

THE SKIN SALON MEDISPA

T 02 4991 2630 E cessnock@thaimassagespa.com.au cessnock.thaimassagespa.com.au

@ SPICERS VINEYARDS ESTATE, 555 HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN T 02 6574 7229 E reception.vineyards@

T 02 4998 2500 E enquiries@chateauelan.com.au chateauelan.com.au

T 02 4993 8500 E programcoord@elysia.com.au goldendoor.com.au

REAR 2/125 VINCENT ST , CESSNOCK T 02 4990 1918 theskinsalon.com.au

spicersretreats.com spicersretreats.com

40 CUMBERLAND ST, CESSNOCK T 02 4991 3331

Spa Anise is located at leading Hunter Valley retreat, Spicers Vineyards Estate, and offers intimate spa experiences in relaxed luxury. Matching breathtaking Australian-made Waterlily products with indulgent treatments carried out by highly experienced therapists, Spa Anise is home to your own private spa experience. Daily 10am–6pm

Visit our Cumberland Street shop in Cessnock and experience an amazing massage with a range of heavenly hands and treatment options embracing the most effective Thai massage techniques, to refresh your mind, relax your body and reawaken your spirit. Also ask about the mobile Thai massage to your door. Daily 9am– 9pm

thainaturemassage.com.au

Offers the ultimate experience of beauty, harmony and relaxation, using cutting-edge technology, complemented by all-natural beauty products and qualified therapists and cosmetic physicians. The luxurious beauty services including facials, medispa treatments, aromatherapy massages, manicures, pedicures, hair design and make-up will leave you glowing. Tue–Fri 10am–5.30pm, Sat 9am–2pm

RELAX... UBIKA SPA @ CROWNE PLAZA HUNTER VALLEY, 430 WINE COUNTRY DR, LOVEDALE T 02 4991 0959

E spa.hunter@ihg.com ubikaspa.com

Relax your body, soothe your soul and uplift your spirits with a visit to the recently refurbished Ubika Spa. Spoil yourself with a treatment from the extensive spa menu or indulge in the Spa Sanctuary and VIP suites, perfect for couples as well as groups. Sun–Thu 9am–6pm, Fri–Sat 9am–7pm

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REJUVENATE... REVIVE.

Dashville is a pristine bushland venue and campground located on the edge of wine country at Belford. We specialise in hosting events both large and small. We are now taking venue hire bookings for 2017/18 summer and beyond. Please visit our website for further info.

CAMPGROUND

VENUE HIRE

FESTIVALS & EVENTS

Dashville.com.au

Come on in. Discover what is hidden behind the vines... and leave time at the gate, for just a while. C E L L A R D O O R • R E S TA U R A N T • A C C O M M O D AT I O N • G A L L E RY 438 Wilderness road loVedale • 02 4998 7734 • www.emmascottage.com.au

Accommodation. PAGE

WINERY/CELLAR DOOR

SWIMMING POOL

SPAS

RESTAURANT

PET FRIENDLY

LOG OR GAS FIRES

FUNCTION AREA

FREE WIFI

BREAKFAST (INCL’D)

BBQ

AIR CONDITIONED

NAME

TARIFF

FIND YOUR HUNTER VALLEY HOME AWAY FROM HOME.

ADDRESS

PHONE

MAP

Carriages Boutique Hotel & Vineyard

@ Diamond Estate, 112 Halls Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7591

$$$

125

MAP 1 K7

Cháteau Élan at The Vintage

Vintage Dr, Rothbury

02 4998 2500

$$$$

125

MAP 1 H7

Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley

430 Wine Country Dr, Lovedale

02 4991 0900

$$$

125

MAP 1 K10

Cypress Lakes Resort by Oaks Hotels & Resorts

Cnr McDonalds & Thompsons Rds, Pokolbin

1300 886 091

$$$$

125

MAP 1 K5

Estate Tuscany

Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7288

$$$

125

MAP 1 F2

Grand Mercure The Vintage

Vintage Dr, Rothbury

02 4998 2222

$$$

125

MAP 1 H7

Harrigan’s Irish Pub & Accommodation

Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 4300

126

MAP 1 J5

Hermitage Lodge

609 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7639

$$$

126

MAP 1 I7

Hunter Valley Resort

Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7777

126

MAP 1 F2

Pokolbin Village

2188 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7670

$$$

N/A

MAP 1 J6

Potters Hotel Brewery Resort

Wine Country Dr, Nulkaba

02 4991 7922

126

MAP 1 M11

The Sebel Kirkton Park Hunter Valley

336 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7680

$$$

126

MAP 1 M7

Amelies on Pokolbin Mountain

338 Pokolbin Mountains Rd, Pokolbin

0413 813 399

$$$

N/A

MAP 1 N3

Avoca House & Cottage Accommodation

2683 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi

0404 032 303

$$$

N/A

MAP 1 S3

Blackwattle Luxury Retreats

169 Talga Rd, Lovedale

0421 419 371

$$$

N/A

MAP 1 F12

Bluebush Estate

196 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 7177

126

MAP 1 G10

Broken View Estate

547 Old North Rd, Pokolbin

0400 112 341

$$$

126

MAP 1 F4

Buffs at Pokolbin

47 Coulson Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7636

$$$

126

MAP 1 F7

Casa La Vina

657 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

0406 770 294

$$$$

126

MAP 1 I7

Cedar Creek Cottages

1840 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi

02 4998 1576

127

MAP 1 R4

Cedars Mount View

60 Mitchells Rd, Mount View

02 4990 9009

$$$$

127

MAP 1 P6

Cottages on Mount View

1329 Mount View Rd, Mount View

02 4990 8989

$$$

127

MAP 1 Q6

Crosswood Estate

120 Old North Rd, Pokolbin

0418 649 554

$$$$

127

MAP 1 D3

Degen Estate and Cottages

349 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin

0477 010 010

$$$$

127

N/A

Emma's Cottage

438 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale

02 4998 7734

127

MAP 1 G10

Englewood Ridge

65 Talga Rd, Lovedale

0417 287 345

128

MAP 1 F12

Gypsy Willows Wollombi

201 Narone Creek Rd, Wollombi

02 4998 3404

$$$

N/A

MAP 1 S3

Hill Top Country Guest House

288 Talga Rd, Rothbury

02 4930 7111

128

MAP 1 F11

IronBark Hill Accommodation

694 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 4964 4028

$$$

128

MAP 1 F2

Lilies Luxury Retreat

60 Majors Ln, Lovedale

0428 698 881

$$$

N/A

MAP 1 H12

Lillians on Lovedale

356 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4990 6958

$$$

128

MAP 1 I11

Lovedale Cottages

77 Brickmans Ln, Lovedale

0409 246 661

$$$

128

MAP 1 I11

Lovedale Lodge

197 Londons Rd, Lovedale

02 4384 3394

N/A

MAP 1 J12

Midnight’s Promise Estate

300 Talga Rd, Lovedale

02 9235 3947

$$$$

128

MAP 1 F11

Nirvana Vista Resort

Lot 3 Sweetwater Rd, Rothbury

0409 461 711

$$$

128

MAP 1 E4

Old Hillside Homestead

493 Marrowbone Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7504

N/A

MAP 1 N4

RidgeView Cottages

273 Sweetwater Rd, Pokolbin

0419 475 221

$$$$

128

MAP 1 E4

Rothvale Vineyard Cottages

223 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7290

$$$

129

MAP 1 G4

Serenity Grove

556 Milbrodale Rd, Broke

02 6579 1444

N/A

MAP 1 H00

Tatler Vineyard Accommodation

477 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 9139

$$$

129

MAP 1 H12

Tellace Wines Accommodation

356 Tuckers Ln, North Rothbury

02 4938 7173

$$$$

129

MAP 1 D12

The Grange on Hermitage

820 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7388

129

MAP 1 F2

RESORTS/HOTELS

SELF-CONTAINED

$0–$100

$101–$200

$201–$300

$301–upwards

INDICATIVE ONLY. TARIFFS BASED ON TWO ADULTS FOR ONE NIGHT AT WEEKEND RACK RATES.

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Accommodation. MAP

The Woods at Pokolbin

107 Halls Rd, Pokolbin

0412 627 316

$$$

129

MAP 1 K8

Walkers Run

Private Rd 1, Bucketty

0427 129 116

$$$$

129

MAP 1 T2

Wine Country Villas

136 Thompsons Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7630

$$$$

130

MAP 1 K5

Wirral Grange Cottage

168 Lomas Ln, Lovedale

02 4991 2874

$$$

130

MAP 1 L11

555 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7229

$$$$

130

MAP 1 D2

Hunter Valley Retreat

626 Sandy Creek Rd, Quorrobolong

02 4998 6007

130

MAP 1 S14

Wine Country Motor Inn

5 Darwin St, Cessnock

02 4993 2999

130

MAP 1 P11

137 Mount View Rd, Cessnock

1800 649 156

130

MAP 1 O10

SPAS

PHONE

NAME

BBQ

ADDRESS

PAGE

WINERY/CELLAR DOOR

SWIMMING POOL

RESTAURANT

PET FRIENDLY

LOG OR GAS FIRES

FUNCTION AREA

FREE WIFI

BREAKFAST (INCL’D)

AIR CONDITIONED

TARIFF

FIND YOUR HUNTER VALLEY HOME AWAY FROM HOME.

SELF-CONTAINED CONTINUED

GUESTHOUSES Spicers Vineyards Estate

MOTELS

CARAVAN PARKS AND BACKPACKERS Active Holidays BIG4 Hunter Valley

$0–$100 RESTAURANT

$101–$200

$201–$300

$301–upwards

INDICATIVE ONLY. TARIFFS BASED ON TWO ADULTS FOR ONE NIGHT AT WEEKEND RACK RATES.

WINERY/CELLAR DOOR

THE LUXURY OF MANY A C C O M M O D A T I O N O P T I O N S, WITH THE CONVENIENCE OF O N L I N E B O O K I N G.

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R E S T A U R A N T

Rustic Mediterranean inspired cuisine in a relaxed, friendly environment. Open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday.

Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin 02 4998 7584 â&#x20AC;˘ www.the-cellar-restaurant.com.au

Gartelmann Wines is one of the Hunter Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most respected winemakers. Established in 1996 the winery produces award winning wines from the best wine growing regions in New South Wales. www.gartelmann.com.au

ARTISAN WINES ~ OLIVES ~ GUESTHOUSE

820 HERMITAGE ROAD, POKOLBIN 2320 T: 02 4998 7388 E: stay@thegrangeonhermitage.com.au W: www.thegrangeonhermitage.com.au

Affordable country style self catering cottages & guestrooms situated on 28 acres of natural bush and our family vineyard. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of Hunter Wine Country, by relaxing on the verandah, watching kangaroos at dusk or wandering through our vineyard, accompanied by Zena, our friendly Black Labrador. Our property is situated within minutes from a wide range of wineries, restaurants, gardens, golf courses and other attractions.

HUNTER VALLEY

WINE • DINE • STAY • PLAY

www.lovedalehuntervalley.com.au

You should be here !

ACCOMMODATION RESORTS/HOTELS

CARRIAGES BOUTIQUE HOTEL & VINEYARD

CHÂTEAU ÉLAN AT THE VINTAGE VINTAGE DR, ROTHBURY

T 02 4998 2500 E reservations@chateauelan.com.au chateauelan.com.au

@ DIAMOND ESTATE, 112 HALLS RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7591 E stay@thecarriages.com.au thecarriages.com.au

Unwind in this boutique hotel, set among vineyards at the end of a pretty lane. Ten luxury suites feature crisp white sheets, goose-down duvets and log fires, plus there’s a saltwater swimming pool, tennis court and a breakfast basket delivered each morning.

CYPRESS LAKES RESORT BY OAKS HOTELS & RESORTS CNR MCDONALDS & THOMPSONS RDS, POKOLBIN

T 1300 886 091 E cypresslakes@theoaksgroup.com.au oakshotelsresorts.com Nestled in the Hunter Valley’s picturesque surroundings, Cypress Lakes Resort by Oaks Hotels & Resorts promises a tranquil and indulgent escape. Ideal for a leisurely holiday with family and friends, golfing break, memorable wedding, bachelorette and bucks party, or unique conferencing experience.

Inducted into the NSW Tourism Hall of Fame for luxury accommodation, Chateau Élan features 100 stunning rooms, with outlooks over the fairways of the championship golf course and mountain range. Guests can also enjoy the state-of-the-art Spa facility and adjoining Salon, or unwind at the decadent Whiskey Bar 1820.

CROWNE PLAZA HUNTER VALLEY 430 WINE COUNTRY DR, LOVEDALE

T 02 4991 0900 E reservations.hunter@ihg.com crowneplazahuntervalley.com.au Surrounded by picturesque vineyards and golf course greens, and framed by the rugged Brokenback Range, Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley epitomises the best in award-winning hospitality and deluxe accommodation, including two- and three-bedroom villas and a range of on-site facilities for you to enjoy.

ESTATE TUSCANY

GRAND MERCURE THE VINTAGE

CNR HERMITAGE RD & MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

VINTAGE DR, ROTHBURY

T 02 4998 7288 E reservations@estatetuscany.com.au estatetuscany.com.au This award-winning, four-star boutique hotel is set on 26 acres with a stunning backdrop of the Brokenback Range and vineyards. It features 38 rooms, a tennis court, a swimming pool and a massage therapist, as well as Thomas Wines Cellar Door, the acclaimed Binnorie Dairy, Mill Restaurant and Brokenback Bar.

DISCOVER OF THE

T 02 4998 2222 E reservations@grandmercurethevintage.com.au grandmercurehuntervalley.com.au Grand Mercure The Vintage offers resort-style living with spacious one- and two-bedroom luxury apartments clustered around a sparkling swimming pool. Facilities within The Vintage precinct include an award-winning restaurant, spa, BBQ area and Greg Norman-designed 18-hole championship golf course.

THE SECRETS

HUNTER VALLEY.

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ACCOMMODATION RESORTS/HOTELS • SELF-CONTAINED

HARRIGAN’S IRISH PUB & ACCOMMODATION

HERMITAGE LODGE

HUNTER VALLEY RESORT

609 MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

CNR HERMITAGE RD & MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

Harrigan’s offers studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments with hotel facilities including a pool and conferencing facilities. It is the perfect venue for business or pleasure, close to Hunter Valley Gardens, Roche Estate and Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, including aqua golf, a picnic area and playground.

Set on 25 acres, the award-winning Hermitage Lodge is nestled in the centre of the vineyards, within easy walking distance of many wineries and tourist attractions. It also has an award-winning restaurant, Il Cacciatore, which is open seven nights and serves Northern Italian-inspired cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.

Everything you love about the Hunter Valley at one resort. Featuring four-star accommodation as well as Matilda Bay Brewhouse + Dining, La Glace Dessert Bar, wine, cooking and candy schools, cellar door/winery, wine theatre, massage centre, horseriding and Segway and carriage tours, all nestled within 40-year-old vineyards.

POTTERS HOTEL BREWERY RESORT

THE SEBEL KIRKTON PARK HUNTER VALLEY

BLUEBUSH ESTATE

WINE COUNTRY DR, NULKABA

336 OAKEY CREEK RD, POKOLBIN

Featuring 68 well-appointed villas and suites situated on 11 acres of landscaped gardens, including bar, restaurant, TAB and conference and event facilities. 2013 AHA NSW Winner for Best TAB (Country).

Combining classic country heritage with contemporary elegance, an all-new luxury accommodation and dining experience awaits. Set on 70 acres with stunning views, the refurbished Sebel Kirkton Park is the epitome of Hunter Valley style from the guestrooms to the new Locavore Dining and Epoch Lounge Bar.

Recipient of TripAdvisor’s 2016 Certificate of Excellence Award. Ideal for family reunions, wedding guests, golf weekends, small conferences and meetings for up to 40 people. Enjoy a game of tennis, billiards, volleyball or unwind by the pool or gas log fire. Intimate B&B accommodation available weekdays. AAA HHHH rating.

BROKEN VIEW ESTATE

BUFFS AT POKOLBIN

CASA LA VINA

47 COULSON RD, POKOLBIN

657 MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

A bush getaway set in the heart of the Hunter Valley. Buffs’ four cottages are spacious and private, one or two bedrooms, each with a wood-burning fire, A/C, BBQ and large covered verandah. Relax with a glass of wine, listen to the kookaburras and spot a kangaroo. Close to restaurants and wineries.

Luxury, unique private villas for that intimate special occasion. An adults’ escape in the heart of the Hunter Valley. Three Santa Fe-inspired adobe villas boast exposed log timber ceilings, gas log fireplaces, air-conditioning, plush king-sized beds, private outdoor jacuzzis in a courtyard and covered parking. AAA HHHH rating.

BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 4300 E enquiries@harrigans.com.au harrigans.com.au

T 02 4991 7922 E info@pottershbr.com.au pottershbr.com.au

547 OLD NORTH RD, POKOLBIN

M 0400 112 341 E info@brokenviewestate.com.au brokenviewestate.com.au Looking for the perfect place to recharge, rekindle, rediscover and relax? The HHHH AAA-rated villas at Broken View Estate combine privacy, luxury and romance with king-sized beds, two-person spa baths and open fires, overlooking the expansive dam to the picturesque Brokenback Range.

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T 02 4998 7639 E info@hermitagelodge.com.au hermitagelodge.com.au

T 02 4998 7680 E h8797@accor.com sebelhuntervalley.com.au

T 02 4998 7636 E buffsatpokolbin@bigpond.com buffsatpokolbin.com.au

T 02 4998 7777 E stay@hunterresort.com.au hunterresort.com.au

196 WILDERNESS RD, LOVEDALE

T 02 4930 7177 E unwind@bluebushestate.com.au bluebushestate.com.au

M 0406 770 294 E stay@casalavina.com.au casalavina.com.au

ACCOMMODATION SELF-CONTAINED

CEDAR CREEK COTTAGES

CEDARS MOUNT VIEW

COTTAGES ON MOUNT VIEW

1840 WOLLOMBI RD, WOLLOMBI

60 MITCHELLS RD, MOUNT VIEW

1329 MOUNT VIEW RD, MOUNT VIEW

Picturesque self-contained cottages overlooking vineyards in beautiful Wollombi Valley – for two, four, six or more. Relax and enjoy bushwalks, bird-watching and a taste of Stonehurst premium wines at the sandstone cellar door. Includes spa bath, log fire, BBQ, breakfast hamper and noon check-out.

Designed specially for couples celebrating a special occasion, these fully equipped, modern spa villas are scattered over a beautiful mountain valley with a meandering creek. Cedars offers unparalleled privacy, gas log fires, expansive views, WiFi, flatscreen satellite TVs, personalised itineraries and in-house romance packages.

Expect wallabies, birdsong, peace and quiet at this tranquil retreat. The deluxe spa cottages sleep up to six and feature your own private open-air spa, wood fire, fully equipped kitchen and hammock under the gumtrees where you can drift away. AAA HHHH rating.

CROSSWOOD ESTATE

DEGEN ESTATE AND COTTAGES

EMMA'S COTTAGE

120 OLD NORTH RD, POKOLBIN

349 DEASYS RD, POKOLBIN

438 WILDERNESS RD, LOVEDALE

Crosswood Estate is located on the Old North Road ridge off Hermitage Road. It produces eclectic varieties such as Tannat, Fiano and Chambourcin, along with traditional Hunter Shiraz. A stunning, two-bedroom loft apartment is available for escapes with private dining/BBQs in the landscaped grounds of the cellar door.

Luxury at its best! This 54-acre vineyard estate offers exceptional accommodation for up to 20 guests with stunning 360 degree views and onsite cellar door. Moments away from the best the Valley has to offer. Popular for executive conferences, training workshops, yoga retreats, and for weddings/special events designed by Hunter Concierge.

Emma’s Cottage Vineyard is located on the aptly named Wilderness Road in Lovedale. There are four self-contained cottages, all with vineyard views. Zaih’s, the onsite restaurant, serves delectable food. Emma’s is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of the country.

T 02 4998 1576 E relax@cedarcreekcottages.com.au cedarcreekcottages.com.au

T 0418 649 554 E greg@marketownmedia.com

T 02 4990 9009 E relax@cedars.com.au cedars.com.au

T 0477 010 010 E mail@degenwines.com.au

T 02 4990 8989 E stay@cottagesonmountview.com.au cottagesonmountview.com.au

M 02 4998 7734 E info@emmascottage.com.au emmascottage.com.au

DID YOU KNOW? The Hunter Valley was named after John Hunter, an officer of the Royal Navy and second governor of New South Wales.

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ACCOMMODATION SELF-CONTAINED

ENGLEWOOD RIDGE 65 TALGA RD, LOVEDALE

HILL TOP COUNTRY GUEST HOUSE

IRONBARK HILL

288 TALGA RD, ROTHBURY

@ PETER DRAYTON WINES, 694 HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN T 02 4964 4028

Stay in the guesthouse and play on the 10-foot billiard table and grand piano. Enjoy large verandahs and wood fires and, in the villas, king beds, double spa baths and balconies; 300 acres of spectacular Valley views, along with kangaroos and wildlife. Activities include horseriding, hayrides, hiking and massages.

Ironbark Hill’s deluxe contemporary accommodation is nestled among the vines, with room for up to 15 guests. Relax and enjoy the log fireplace, huge deck overlooking the vineyard, BBQ area, floodlit tennis court, in-ground swimming pool and on-site cellar door, which is open daily.

LILLIANS ON LOVEDALE

LOVEDALE COTTAGES

MIDNIGHT’S PROMISE ESTATE

356 LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

77 BRICKMANS LN, LOVEDALE

M 0409 246 661 E relax@lovedalecottages.com.au lovedalecottages.com.au

300 TALGA RD, LOVEDALE

T 02 9235 3947 E info@midnightspromise.com.au midnightspromise.com.au

Minutes from wineries and restaurants, this very private, generously proportioned, elegantly furnished country house is set on 25 acres and caters for four. It has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a large spa, A/C, open fire, hooded BBQ, full kitchen, breakfast provisions and TV/DVD/CD. It’s a supremely relaxing house... go on, you deserve it.

Private one-, two- or three-bedroom self-contained, log fire and spa cottages, walking distance from wineries and restaurants. Free tennis, WiFi, mini-golf, heated indoor pool and golf course. Perfect romantic escape for two or can cater for up to 34 guests.

Located in the foothills of Lovedale, this Estate offers secluded, luxury self-contained accommodation in a vineyard setting. There are two country cottages (three bedroom and two bedroom with queen-sized beds and A/C) or a romantic Balinese-themed couples-only retreat: Villa Janji (villa of promise).

NIRVANA VISTA RESORT

RIDGEVIEW COTTAGES

LOT 3 SWEETWATER RD, ROTHBURY

273 SWEETWATER RD, POKOLBIN

This luxurious seven-bedroom, four-bathroom homestead accommodates up to 20 and is ideal for wedding parties. There’s a bridal suite with a large ensuite and circular spa bath, an in-ground pool, outdoor spa and huge deck. It also boasts a wedding gazebo and wedding marquee for up to 120 guests.

Beautifully furnished country cottages in a secluded setting among vineyards and bushland. Features include spa bath, double shower, log fire, A/C, full kitchen, covered parking, private undercover BBQ area, jacuzzi, sauna, infinity-edge swimming pool and tennis court – plus on-site cellar door and restaurant.

M 0417 287 345 E mike@englewoodridge.com.au englewoodridge.com.au Enjoy the wildlife, views and walks with the furry members of the family at the pet-friendly Englewood Ridge. This comfortable country house is set on 25 acres with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, two dining areas, a swimming pool, gas BBQ and fenced yard.

T 02 4990 6958 E info@lillians.com.au lillians.com.au

T 02 4930 7111 E stay@hilltopguesthouse.com.au hilltopguesthouse.com.au

M 0409 461 711 E mail@nirvanavista.com.au nirvanavista.com.au

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E cellardoor@peterdraytonwines.com.au peterdraytonwines.com.au

M 0419 475 221 E sleep@ridgeview.com.au ridgeview.com.au

ACCOMMODATION SELF-CONTAINED

ROTHVALE VINEYARD COTTAGES 223 DEASYS RD, POKOLBIN

TELLACE WINES ACCOMMODATION

TATLER VINEYARD ACCOMMODATION 477 LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

356 TUCKERS LN, NORTH ROTHBURY

Offering luxury accommodation for up to 14 on a working vineyard. Choose between the contemporary loft apartment or Tatler Lodge, and enjoy a complimentary bottle of Tatler wine while watching the sun set over the majestic Brokenback Range or cuddling up by the fire.

Watch kangaroos at play and take in the fabulous views across the vineyard from this modern three-bedroom, self-contained homestead, just a short walk from the Tellace Wines cellar door. It’s a tranquil spot with all the activities and attractions just a 10-minute drive away.

THE GRANGE ON HERMITAGE

THE WOODS AT POKOLBIN

WALKERS RUN

820 HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

107 HALLS RD, POKOLBIN

PRIVATE RD 1, BUCKETTY

Quality affordable country accommodation on a 28-acre property, with a family-run vineyard. Offering guestrooms and two-bedroom cottages with complimentary breakfast hamper, ensuites, equipped kitchens, disability facilities, king- and queen-sized beds, spa, A/C, log fire and WiFi. Close to wineries, restaurants and other attractions.

The Woods features two luxury houses, each offering accommodation for groups of two to eight guests. Exclusive and private use of each house and facilities is included with the use of four ensuite, queen-sized bedrooms on weekends and between one and four bedrooms mid-week. Centrally located near wineries and restaurants.

Funky Wild West In The Aussie Bush. An amazing experience for a group of friends, a romantic escape for two or boutique events with eclectic accommodation for 10 guests. Breathtaking views, four log fires inside and out. Large fully equipped kitchen, spit-roast and BBQ. Home entertainment, indoor/outdoor speakers, Foxtel, WiFi, pool. Dog friendly.

T 02 4998 7290 E wines@rothvale.com.au rothvale.com.au Stay on a 75-acre working vineyard complete with winery and cellar door. One-, two- and three-bedroom rustic, self-contained country cottages offer all you need for a comfortable getaway. Enjoy fires in winter and the pool in summer. Cook a barbecue or taste wines with father-and-son team Luke and Max all year round.

T 02 4998 7388 E stay@thegrangeonhermitage.com.au thegrangeonhermitage.com.au

T 02 4930 9139 E sales@tatlerwines.com tatlerwines.com

M 0412 627 316 E info@thewoods.com.au thewoods.com.au

DEEPLY FASCINATING OF

WITH

T 02 4938 7173 E info@tellace.com.au

M 0427 129 116 E ruth@walkersrun.net walkersrun.net

RICH OVERTONES

ENJOYMENT AND A LONG, MEMORABLE FINISH.

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ACCOMMODATION SELF-CONTAINED • GUESTHOUSES • MOTELS

WINE COUNTRY VILLAS

WIRRAL GRANGE COTTAGE

136 THOMPSONS RD, POKOLBIN

168 LOMAS LN, LOVEDALE

T 02 4991 2874 E carol@lioncrest.com.au wirralgrange.com.au

555 HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN T 02 6574 7229 E reception.vineyards@spicersretreats.com spicersretreats.com/spicers-vineyards-estate

Escape to your haven in the Hunter. With eight stylish split-level villas overlooking 25 acres of lush Aussie bush, Wine Country Villas is the ideal spot to chill out. Each villa has a king-sized bed, full kitchen, generous breakfast basket, coffee maker, deck with BBQ and views.

This delightful three-bedroom cottage is set in the centre of a working vineyard and farm in the heart of Hunter Valley Wine Country, and features a fully equipped kitchen, log fire, A/C, pool and BBQ. Breakfast provisions and complimentary bottle of wine included. Pets welcome.

Intimate escape, special celebration or gourmet indulgence – whatever your reason, Spicers has all the ingredients for the perfect Wine Country getaway. All 12 guestrooms offer an open fire and spa ensuite, and access to the property's outdoor pool, spa, games area, day spa and Restaurant Botanica.

HUNTER VALLEY RETREAT

WINE COUNTRY MOTOR INN

626 SANDY CREEK RD, QUORROBOLONG

5 DARWIN ST, CESSNOCK

ACTIVE HOLIDAYS BIG4 HUNTER VALLEY

Awarded 2014 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence. Situated on 200 acres of bushland at the foot of the Watagan Mountains, ideal for a weekend away, family gathering, wedding or conference. Friendly team, relaxed environment. Accommodates 140 people in garden studios through to six-bedroom villas. Conference room seats 180 guests.

Located in the centre of the Cessnock CBD, Wine Country Motor Inn is only 10 minutes’ drive from Hunter Valley Gardens and all of the other major attractions. It has 50 rooms on two floors offering a range of room types in a 100 per cent non-smoking environment, with free WiFi and parking.

T 02 4998 7630 E info@winecountryvillas.com.au winecountryvillas.com.au

T 02 4998 6007 E info@huntervalleyretreat.com.au huntervalleyretreat.com.au

T 02 4993 2999 E stay@winecountrymotorinn.com.au winecountrymotorinn.com.au

SPICERS VINEYARDS ESTATE

137 MOUNT VIEW RD, CESSNOCK

M 1800 649 156 E huntervalley@ahp.com.au ahp.com.au/huntervalley With a variety of accommodation types, from three-bedroom villas to budget-style accommodation, as well as powered caravan and camp sites, this is the perfect location for a Hunter Valley getaway. Park facilities include a jumping cushion, camp kitchen, barbecues as well as a wood-fired pizza oven.

BOOK YOUR ACCO M M O DAT I O N O N L I N E.

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AROUND HERMITAGE WINE AND FOOD TRAIL

TA S T E P L AY S TAY Follow the RED trail along this north western area of Pokolbin, Hunter Valley

TASTE the best boutique wines & delicious food at awarding winning restaurants PLAY Ride a bike along our new cycleway, join us at the Wine, Food & Film Festival & En Plein Air, an open air painting experience STAY Relax in luxury Hunter Valley accommodation

#Around Hermitage #HunterValley

For events, news and information visit w w w. a r o u n d h e r m i t a g e . c o m . a u

OPEN FOR SALES & TASTINGS

Visit: 293 Deasys Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 l Call: 02 4998 7781 Online: mistyglen.com.au l Cellar Door: Friday to Monday 10am - 5pm 3 Bedroom Self Contained Cottage l Pet Friendly

TASTE - PLAY - STAY

7 Days, 10am - 5pm 1686 Broke Road, POKOLBIN Ph (02) 4998 6737 info@hunterdistillery.com.au www.hunterdistillery.com.au

Serene beauty, breathtaking views… there’s no setting more romantic to begin your married life than the spectacular Hunter Valley. The Powerhouse at Broke, located on a working Alpaca Farm, is a truly unique venue to say “I do”. 1100 Milbrodale Road Broke NSW 2330 T +61 2 6579 1081 E farmstay@starlinealpacas.com.au W www.starlinealpacas.com.au

Cellar Door - Vineyard - Picnic and Barbecue area / facilities Sample our superb wines Group and mini bus bookings are welcome Cellar Door open 6 days a week,10am to 5pm. Closed Tuesdays.

WOLLOMBI

WINES

Lower Hunter Valley

Wollombi Road, Wollombi M: 0408410772 E: orders@wollombiwines.com.au

www.wollombiwines.com.au

Boutique accommodation in beautifully designed and tastefully furnished villas, nestled in 25 acres of lovely Australian bushland. 136 Thompsons Road, Pokolbin NSW y 02 4998 7630 / 0408 414 051 info@winecountryvillas.com.au y winecountryvillas.com.au

Weddings. VENUES AND SERVICES FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY. a thousand words, to celebrants who will craft a ceremony just for you, Wine Country has them all. You will also find myriad hair and beauty consultants who will pamper you from top to toe and ensure you look your best on the big day, entertainment to get the party started, specialists in theming for a unique wedding, head-turning transport options, luxurious lodgings for your friends and family, and the perfect honeymoon options to begin your new life together.

NAME

ADDRESS

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Serene beauty, breathtaking views… there’s no setting more romantic to begin your married life than the spectacular Hunter Valley. Whether you’re imagining an intimate event tucked away from the madding crowds or a large gala celebration, the Hunter Valley can confidently meet all of your expectations – no matter your tastes. From distinctive venues to hold your ceremony or reception, an award-winning photographer who will produce a picture that is worth

MAP

Beveridge’s Menswear

88 Vincent St, Cessnock

02 4990 1310

N/A

MAP 2 D4

Estate Tuscany

Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7200

134

MAP 1 F2

Fuse Gallery Hair. Skin. Body

89 Vincent St, Cessnock

02 4991 4247

134

MAP 2 C3

Hunter Valley Images

4B Pinchen St, Nulkaba

02 4991 4400

N/A

MAP 1 N11

Hunter Valley Resort

Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7777

134

MAP 1 F2

Jason Thomas Marriage Celebrant

Small Winemakers Centre, Suite 5, 426 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

0409 337 000

N/A

MAP 1 J6

Margan Winery & Restaurant

1238 Milbrodale Rd, Broke

02 6579 1372

134

MAP 1 I0

Marsha Koster Makeup

Hunter Valley

0450 296 691

N/A

Occasions 4u Civil Celebrant Services

Beresfield

0407 709 445

N/A

Photography on Hermitage

Hunter Valley

0413 805 222

N/A

MAP 1 B9

Prestige Wedding & Event Hire

13 Ace Cres, Tuggerah

02 4353 4599

134

N/A

Spark Ceremonies Hunter Valley

18 Casuarina Dr, Rothbury

0429 354 177

N/A

MAP 1 H7

St Michael’s Wollombi

2887 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi

02 4998 1576

N/A

MAP 1 S2

Book accommodation and tours online winecountry.com.au Like us – HunterValleyWineCountry Follow us – @huntervalleywc Watch us – Huntervalleywc

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

133

WEDDINGS

ESTATE TUSCANY CNR HERMITAGE RD & MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7200 E reservations@estatetuscany.com.au estatetuscany.com.au

FUSE GALLERY HAIR. SKIN. BODY

89 VINCENT ST, CESSNOCK T 02 4991 4247

E info@fusegallery.com.au fusegallery.com.au

Tuscany is the perfect venue that has it all – accommodation, pre-wedding events, ceremony, reception and after party, with the vineyards and Brokenback Range as your majestic backdrop – be it winter with the stark rustic beauty of the Valley or the flourishing lush green hues of summer. Daily, by appointment

5000 brides can’t be wrong... The Hunter Valley’s leading and most contemporary salon in hair, skin and body is located in the Cessnock CBD, just five minutes from Pokolbin. The large salon boasts cutting-edge technology and facilities. Mon, Wed & Fri 9am–5.30pm, Tue 9am–7pm, Thu 9am–8pm, Sat 8am–2pm

HUNTER VALLEY RESORT

MARGAN WINERY & RESTAURANT

CNR HERMITAGE RD & MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

1238 MILBRODALE RD, BROKE

PRESTIGE WEDDING & EVENT HIRE

Hunter Valley Resort caters for small and intimate weddings, and for occasions of up to 250 guests. Most importantly, the management and staff recognise this is your special day and aim to make it nothing short of perfect. Call for a tailored proposal

Margan offers a unique wedding destination for the discerning couple who appreciates quality food, great wine and friendly service with a dash of the all-important 'wow factor’! Awarded Australian Tourism Awards Best Restaurant, NSW Best Winery and NSW Hall of Fame. Daily, by appointment.

T 02 4998 7777 E events@hunterresort.com.au hunterresort.com.au

T 02 6579 1372 E cellardoor@margan.com.au margan.com.au

13 ACE CRES, TUGGERAH

T 02 4353 4599 E mp@prestigepartyhire.com.au prestigepartyhire.com.au Prestige prides itself on hiring quality equipment and providing excellent personal service. It offers AV, exhibition/trade booths, marquees, lighting, dance floors, furniture, coolrooms and more. With many years of expertise, Prestige can ensure your event is a success. Mon–Fri 8.30am–5pm, Sat 8.30am–12pm

E X P E R I E N C E A DAY YO U W I L L A LWAYS R E M E M B E R I N A P L A C E YO U W I L L N E V E R F O R G E T.

winecountry.com.au

134

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

CELEBRATE

long Sunday lunches

SUNDAY L UN C H F R O M 12P M T O 3P M Enjoy a relaxed lunch every Sunday from 12pm to 3pm at Restaurant Botanica at Spicers Vineyards Estate. With live music all afternoon and the vineyard just outside, it’s the perfect way to spend a long, lazy Sunday afternoon.

Book on 6574 7229 or visit spicersretreats.com 555 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

Hunter Valley Christmas Shop

hunter valley WEDDING P LANNER

10.99

ONLINE

AUD $14.95 Vol.20’17 SHEER DESIGN PTY LTD

THE JEWELLERS

THE HUNTER REGIO

WIN $7,000 IN BIG

N’S MOST COMPREHE

Open 7 Days, 10am to 5pm Hunter Valley Gardens Village Shops. Broke Road, Pokolbin, NSW Ph 02 4998 6834. www.hvchristmasshop.com.au

NSIVE WEDDING

PRIZES!