Hunter Valley Magazine Issue 6, 2016 by Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association

MAGAZINE ISSUE

#06

Looking for the perfect long lunch spot?*

OFFICIAL REGIONAL GUIDE & MAP

*You’re spoilt for choice during Wine & Food Festival

SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO • 1 MASTER GARDENER WHO DIGS HIS JOB • 4 OF THE BEST SPA RESORTS • 10 TOP SHIRAZ REVIEWS • 15 DOS AND DON’TS OF WINE-TASTING

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E S T A B L I S H E D

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120 years crafting wine and experiences that reach beyond the bottle. Creating better lives of wine, food, family & friends.

From unlikely beginnings over 120 years ago, the Tulloch story continues today as one of the most truly authentic and generational wine dynasties of modern times. Tulloch is regarded as a contemporary Australian brand loved and revered for its philosophy of crafting premium wines for all generations of wine drinkers. Visit our Cellar Door, Members Lounge and Tasting Lab to enjoy a great selection of wines from the Tulloch range.

Hunter Valley Cellar Door of the Year 2014 & 2007 - Hunter Valley Wine Industry Awards Wine of Provenance Award 2013 Hunter Valley Wine Show - Hector Limited Release Shiraz Heritage Award 2012 Hunter Valley Wine Industry Awards - Pokolbin Dry Red label Legend Award 2011 Hunter Valley Wine Industry Awards - J.Y. Tulloch Open 7 days, 10am - 5pm. 638 DeBeyers Rd Pokolbin NSW 2320 P 02 4998 7580 www.tullochwines.com E cellardoor@tullochwines.com

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CONTENTS 65

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

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31 NEWS

7 ON THE GRAPEVINE A snapshot of what’s being shared on social media

11 SNIPPETS

Download the free Hunter Valley Official Guide iPhone app

46 STARS TAKE TO THE STAGE Enjoy music under the stars

84 CELLAR DOORS Sample the region’s award-winning wines

99 RESTAURANTS & CAFES

News, views and reviews

52 A TALE OF TWO HUNTERS

WINE

Two visitors share their Hunter Valley experiences

109 GOURMET

Discover why the 2014 Shiraz is the best in decades

Meet a master gardener who really digs his job

113 TOURS

Wicked ways to pamper yourself

121 EXPERIENCES

Your wine-tasting 101 guide

16 RED-HOT VINTAGE

23 WINE-TASTING DOS AND DON’TS

26 RED OBSESSION

Hardcore locals who love Rugby and red wine

DISCOVER MORE

EXPLORE

DINE

55 GREEN THUMB

58 SPA GAZING

65 A SECRET CALLED… SINGLETON What to see, do and eat and where to stay

31 CLASS ACTION

68 HUNTER VALLEY WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL

The region’s hottest cooking schools

Showcasing the best food and wine experiences

40 THE LAMB SHANK REDEMPTION Slow-cooked lamb is on the menu

Get a taste for the Hunter Valley way of life Enjoy local produce and brews Discover the secrets of the Hunter Valley Enjoy a range of activities and attractions

129 ACCOMMODATION Find your Hunter Valley home

141 WEDDINGS

Wedding venues and services

144 SERVICES

71 WHAT’S ON

Essentials to cover all your needs

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

MAP

45 MADE IN THE HUNTER

DISCOVER

Spotlight on Contango Espresso Roasters

Your guide to the region

79 VISITOR GUIDE

145 REGIONAL MAP Get to where you want to go with our pull-out touring map WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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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 HEAD OF CONTENT Lulu Wilkinson SUBEDITORS Paul Rodger, Liani Solari ART DIRECTORS Whitney Moothoo, Guy Pendlebury SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER Josie Schwarzer PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Geoff Campbell 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 sixth issue of Hunter Valley Magazine, which beautifully showcases the best food, wine and other experiences in Australia’s oldest wine region. For the second year in a row the Hunter Valley has been chosen as Australia’s best wine region in the 2015 Australian Traveller People’s Choice Awards. The Hunter Valley shone above other regions, such as runners-up Barossa Valley, Margaret River, Yarra Valley and McLaren Vale, reaffirming it’s the premier wine destination in the country. Hunter Valley hotels were also ranked amongst the best in Australia based on more than 200 million traveller ratings on Trivago, the world’s largest online hotel search site, with the destination ranking number one in New South Wales and third in Australia! In this issue we reveal why some people say the 2014 Shiraz is the best for decades (page 16) and where you can test your culinary skills with our round-up of cooking schools (page 31). You can also discover where to enjoy an outdoor concert among the vines (page 46) and which spa resort has the pamper treatment you’re looking for (page 58) and uncover the charms of Singleton (page 65). Plus, you’ll find visitor information, business listings and a regional map to help you navigate the region.

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

SHARE WITH US HunterValleyWineCountry

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OUR CONTRIBUTORS

COVER PHOTO

Photo: Whispering Brook’s Olive Long Table Lunch.

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RICK ALLEN

Rick is a former newspaper editor who writes a weekly wine column for the Cumberland Newspaper Group. His work has appeared in Gourmet Traveller Wine Magazine, The Sydney Morning Herald and Sun-Herald.

CHRISTINE SALINS

Christine is a travel writer, wine columnist, restaurant reviewer and judge. She edited The Canberra Times food and wine section for eight years and has freelanced for more than a decade, contributing to many publications.

PATRICK HADDOCK

Also known as The Wining Pom, Patrick has been writing about wine for the past decade. He contributes to publications including James Halliday’s Wine Companion magazine and Selector Magazine.

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.

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Bodega Restaurant at Cypress Lakes Resort is the home of the One Metre Pizza!

Open 7 days. Call 02 4993 1555 to reserve your table.

OAK1629 Cyp Mag Ad 275x210mm.indd 4

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The Hunters Premier Wine Desďż˝naďż˝on

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

Cellar Door - Restaurant - Brewhouse - Beer Garden - Events - Weddings And the odd concert for 20,000 people.

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

Wine and Beer Tasting Open 7 Days 9am-5pm Friday & Saturday Summer Hours till 8pm 2213 Broke Road Pokolbin, NSW 2320 (Opposite Pokolbin Village) - (02) 4993 3555 HV006.indb 6

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NEWS SOCIAL

ON THE GRAPEVINE

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

4. 6.

HUNTER VALLEY

1. @yjukaye #bimbadgen #huntervalley. 2. @beck.quinn My boots after the Fleetwood Mac gig in the Hunter Valley last night. 3. @amylebrocq Captured this on the country roads at sunset around Mount View, NSW. 4. @ arvinhasinsta @jazzinthevines + awesome friends + unlimited @tyrrellswines = not-so-great hangover. 5. @austtraveller This pretty-as-a-picture landscape is NSW’s Hunter Valley Wine Country, in a little region named Broke. 6. @toddgriggs Peacock @ Krinklewood in the Hunter Valley. Beautiful spot. 7. @jessietheakston Swang #golf #huntervalley WANT MORE?

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

7. WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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H U N T E R VA L L E Y

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

OP EN DA ILY 10A M TO 5P M 2342 BROKE R OA 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

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NEWS SOCIAL

TWEET SHEET THE HUNTER IN 45 WORDS

HUNTER VALLEY BALLOON FIESTA

@Ang3l_Leo #huntervalley #escapade #vineyard #margan #restaurant

MY HIDDEN HUNTER

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Sam Yeldham is a professional photographer/videographer from Sydney who recently spent back-to-back weekends in the Hunter Valley – one to shoot a wedding and the other to attend an Instagram meet that included the annual Hunter Valley Balloon Fiesta. See more of his work at facebook.com/ sam.yeldham and instagram.com/ samyeldham When visiting the Hunter Valley, what did you discover that you didn’t know before? I hadn’t been to the Hunter Valley since I was a boy, so pretty much everything I saw over the two weekends felt like a new discovery. I was not at all aware that the Hunter Valley was a popular spot for hot air ballooning in New South Wales, so seeing them rise into the air during a sunrise photo shoot was pretty special. Any activities you would recommend to a friend? I’d have to say hot air ballooning! It’s fun, you get to see the entire Hunter Valley from an incredible vantage point and it gets the adrenaline pumping just enough to justify an early-brunch glass of wine to settle the nerves.

What was your most memorable wine experience? I was fortunate to take a tour of the Scarborough on Hermitage tasting room, where I was given a run-down of the Scarborough wine philosophy, their processes and a generous smorgasbord of tastings. Safe to say, I walked out with very satisfied tastebuds. Must-visit restaurant? Restaurant Botanica at Spicers Vineyards Estate. Outstanding food and friendly staff who are willing to recommend carefully chosen matching wines for every course – which, for a wine novice like me, was a great thing. Also, they have a resident pig to pat, so that’s a massive tick in my book – I’m a child at heart. Any ideas and inspiration for visiting Instagrammers? It surprised me how beautiful the vineyards looked at night. I got some very nice astro selfies that look fantastic because of the unusual shapes provided by the vines and leaves. GET MORE?

WANT MORE PHOTO TIPS FROM SAM ABOUT #HUNTERVALLEY? GO TO WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

@cellardigital Surprisingly delicate #winetasting #hungerfordhill #luvhhw #huntervalley @ Muse Restaurant

@BeyondBlighty Wine-tasting in the Hunter Valley #ttot #travel #winetasting #wine #sydney #nsw #australia #huntervalley #rtw WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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Château Élan at The Vintage Hunter Valley Vintage Drive Rothbury NSW 2320

Hotel 02 4998 2500 | Golf 02 4998 2208 | Spa 02 4998 2504 | Restaurant 02 4998 2213 www.chateauelan.com.au

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NEWS SNIPPETS

NEW AND NOTABLE • Thomas Wines’ cellar door in the Tuscany Wine Estate complex on the corner of Hermitage Road and Mistletoe Lane opened just ahead of Thommo’s 30th consecutive Hunter Valley vintage, with Scott Comyns announced as the new assistant winemaker. • Usher Tinkler Wines and Salumi has set up shop in the old timber church on McDonalds Road, with a vinyl turntable spinning out tunes, and cheese and salami to complement the wines made by Usher and assistant winemaker Michael Wells. • Ballabourneen Wine Co. is moving to new premises on McDonalds Road, near Leisure Inn, while Petersons Wines has opened a second cellar door at the old Ballabourneen site on Broke Road. • A new restaurant – Hunters Quarter – has opened at Cockfighter’s Ghost on DeBeyers Road. Chef Brian Duncan (of Level 41 fame) is dishing up everything from confit pig jowl to wood-fired pizzas.

3 WINES MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW So, you enjoy the traditional wine varieties but love to discover something new? Here’s a terrific trio to try. 1. SAVAGNIN How to say it: sah-vah-NYAHN Mistaken for the Spanish grape Albarino when it was first planted in Australia, this fresh white variety is now well established in the country. Glandore Estate Wines’ 2013 Regional Series Savagnin ($23) has a soft, rich mouthfeel with pear and melon fruits on the palate. Serve with pan-seared scallops, grilled breadcrumbs, peas and prosciutto. glandorewines.com

2. SAGRANTINO How to say it: SAH-grahn-TEE-noh This Italian red variety from Umbria produces big, fruity wines that can be very tannic and have great longevity. Australian versions are more approachable as youngsters, such as Tallavera Grove’s 2014 Rogue Series Foot Stomped Sagrantino ($30). It’s full of dark, sappy fruit and black forest cake-like flavours of dark cherry and cocoa, balanced by sweet tannins and fine, lengthy acidity, so it will continue to evolve for many years. Drink with game meats and pasta dishes. tallaveragrove.com.au

3. GEWÜRZTRAMINER How to say it: gur-vertz-tra-MEANER It might be one of the hardest wines to pronounce but it’s dead easy to spot with just one sniff, as this white wine is highly perfumed with a rose petal scent. Ernest Hill Wines’ 2015 Maisie Evelyn Gewürztraminer ($23) is described as “Turkish delight in a bottle” with some lychee sweetness and a subtle hint of rosewater spice. The perfect partner for a hot Thai curry or Indian vindaloo. ernesthillwines.com.au

ON THE HOP Want to explore more places and take your time without having to drive? Tim and Kristy Burness from iHop Hunter Valley did, too. “Over the years we did self-drive tours, chartered tour services and even walked between cellar doors, but there was no alternative transport service that allowed you to really explore the destinations you wanted to see in your own time,” Kristy says. “So in July 2015 we decided to launch an affordable, flexible bus service that allows you to plan your own tour.” The Hunter Valley’s only hop-on hop-off bus service has gone gangbusters since, with more than 1000 people jumping on board to discover the local people, produce and places at their own speed. The Day Hopper pass is $35pp; the Two Day Hopper pass is $60pp. ihophuntervalley.com.au WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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NEWS SNIPPETS EXTRA! EXTRA!

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

Name: Chardonnay Age: I’m the eldest golden retriever (aged 12) at Misty Glen Wines and the chief meeter and greeter Loves: Aside from my work at the cellar door, I like to chill out on the deck after a patrol of the vineyard and a swim in the dam Pet hate: Having a bath just when I’ve got myself smelling like a real farm dog Dirty deeds: Pretending I’m deaf when being told not to go for a swim Favourite friend: Semillon, my six-year-old partner in crime

Opera in the Vineyards is back after a two-year break. Four of our most popular opera singers, sopranos Natalie Aroyan and Greta Bradman, star tenor David Hobson and special guest, international tenor Richard Troxell will perform with the Metropolitan Orchestra under the stars at Roche Estate on Saturday October 8. Enjoy some of the most beautiful arias and duets by Mozart, Rossini, Puccini and Verdi. Book through ticketek.com.au

LAP IT UP If you have a speed demon in the family, Go Karts Go is the place where they can fill that need for speed, legally. It has one of the longest outdoor go kart tracks in the region and some of the fastest 4-stroke karts. The go karts are the latest RIMO Go Karts from Europe, with specially designed junior go karts for kids aged seven years and up, but the littlies don’t miss out either – even three-year-olds can whip around with Mum or Dad in one of the twin seaters. It’s $5 for your license, which lasts 12 months, and $20 for a 10-minute session. 0455 999 096 gokartsgo.com.au

6 FIRESIDE FAVOURITES Who can resist the flickering of a roaring open fire when the weather cools down? Enjoy fireside dining at its best at these local eateries – just request a fireside table when booking. • Cafe Enzo oozes charm with its thick sandstone walls, dark timber ceilings and an enormous antique timber fireplace dating back to the 1700s. • Old Brickworks Brasserie at Potters Brewery is a popular spot all year round but comes into its own in winter when the logs are lit in the 1.5m x 0.8m fireplace. • The huge two-sided stone fireplace is

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a focal feature at Muse Restaurant and owner-chef Troy Rhoades-Brown also uses it to prepare some elements of his dishes. Marshmallows toasted over the fire were a big hit last winter. • You’re spoiled for choice at Restaurant Botanica, as it has two bluestone fireplaces in the restaurant, both lit every night throughout winter. There’s one in the comfy

lounge area where you can relax and enjoy a glass or two of wine before dinner; the other is in the main dining room. • The Cellar Restaurant has a large stone fireplace in the centre of the restaurant and flickering candles set a cosy scene. • Snack from the all-day dining menu beside the sandstone fireplace in the library at Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens.

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NEWS SNIPPETS

LUXE LIVING The Sebel Kirkton Park Hunter Valley has had a multimilliondollar facelift, with all 70 rooms given a makeover by internationally renowned interior designer Greg Natale. He’s transformed the grand hotel from top to toe, designing a new restaurant, wine lounge and bar, updating the lobby and adding vibrant colours, rich fabrics and striking furnishings throughout. If your getaway wish list includes a lavish hotel with all the bells and whistles – tennis courts, billiards room, Grecian-style pool house with indoor heated pool, sauna, spa and gym – this spruced-up resort might be your perfect match. sebelhuntervalley.com.au

BEER LEADERS Love your beer? Then Rover Coaches’ Hunter Ale Trail should be on your Hunter Valley hit list. A must for anyone who’s into craft beer, it’s a half-day weekend tour where you meet the makers of the Hunter Valley’s best local beers and enjoy an ice-cold brew. You visit three craft brewery hotspots, including Hunter Beer Co for a tour and tasting; Hope Estate Brewhouse with its endless stream of new beers; and The Garden Cellars with its extensive range of imported and local beers. The tour includes a tasting paddle at each brewery, with pick-up and return to your hotel, for $65pp. rovercoaches.com.au

ASK THE EXPERT We ask Muse Restaurant’s sommelier, Stephane Pommier, some questions about ordering wine at a restaurant. When is it okay to send a bottle of wine back? When the sommelier offers you the first taste and the wine is faulty with signs of oxidation or cork taint (if the smell reminds you of wet cardboard or Band-Aid ask the sommelier to double-check). It’s also acceptable to send the wine back if it is served at the wrong temperature so the sommelier can rectify that, but it’s not okay to send a wine back just because you don’t like the wine. Mind you, if you’ve asked the sommelier for their recommendation you should let them know you aren’t happy

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with their choice and chances are they will offer to replace it. Is it okay for the sommelier to taste my wine? Not in Australia. It’s a common practice in Europe but here it’s considered bad form. The sommelier should open your wine, decant it if needed and pick up any oxidation on the nose. If we have wine left, is it bad manners to ask to take it home with us? Definitely not – you’ve paid for the wine, so it’s yours. Most restaurants will ask if you’d like to take it home when you’re paying the bill. If not, just ask them to recap or recork the bottle so you can enjoy it at home.

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3 HUGE WEEKS

WINTER HOLIDAY FUN

#SnowTime

ICE SKATING, SNOW PLAY, TOBOGGANING AND MORE! OPEN: 10AM - 9PM, 25 JUNE - 17 JULY 2016 For information and online tickets - www.hvg.com.au Broke Road Pokolbin - Ph: 02 4998 4000 Accommodation available at harrigans.com.au

Join us for updates & giveaways

Full gardens open 9am - 5pm. Limited access from 5pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9pm. This event will not open in adverse weather conditions. Admission charges apply. Program subject to change.

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RED-HOT VINTAGE STOCK UP ON SOME 2014 SHIRAZ BEFORE IT’S ALL SOLD OUT... IT’S REGARDED AS ONE OF THE BEST VINTAGES IN DECADES! WORDS: PATRICK HADDOCK

PHOTOS: CHRIS ELFES

IT’S ALL HANDS ON DECK WHEN HARVESTING THE SHIRAZ GRAPES.

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WINE SHIRAZ

EVERY YEAR THERE are eager proclamations from some of the traditional members of the Hunter Valley winemaking industry. They like to predict the nature of the vintage (sometimes with undue hyperbole), but in 2014 all that was justified. It wasn’t just the old guard who were jubilant about the quality of 2014 reds in Wine Country, it was a unanimous call across the whole region as winemakers revelled in the quality of the grapes. The trophy judging at the 2015 Hunter Valley Wine Show really put it all in perspective. There was one wine that stood out for its sheer quality. There was no doubting it had pedigree but there was something extra. Auspicious vintage conditions made it shine – 2014 had left its mark. The wine was Brokenwood’s 2014 Graveyard Vineyard Shiraz and it went on to gain an incredible five trophies and one gold medal. I was a fly on the wall as an associate judge and, although my vote did not count, it was unanimous among my fellow judges that this was a special Shiraz. The thing is, the wine isn’t even released until May 2016. No doubt it will sell out in days. Make no mistake, the reds from 2014 have already had some great press, with some of the best wines still to be released. If you have children or grandchildren born in this vintage, buy up now as these wines will last for decades and who knows when conditions will be this perfect again. Jim Chatto, chief winemaker at McWilliam’s Mount Pleasant, tweeted at the time (now famously, and retweeted many times): “1937, 1954, 1965, 2014. If you’re lucky you get one, maybe two, WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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“One of the great (and also most annoying) things about making wine in the Hunter Valley is vintage variation.” of these vintages in your career. Make it count.” His warning was stark. Stuff it up at your peril – Mother Nature had done her bit; just don’t mess up the raw materials in the winery. No pressure then. I subsequently found out from Stuart Hordern, senior winemaker at Brokenwood, that the same pressure was applied by their vineyard manager of 40 years, Keith Barry, who said, as he dropped off the last fruit bin, “We’ve done our bit – now don’t stuff it up,” or words to that effect. I asked Michael De Iuliis what made the vintage such an auspicious one. “For me, the ’14 vintage was definitely up there in terms of quality for reds,” he said. “One of the great (and also most annoying) things about making wine in the Hunter Valley is vintage variation. The 2014 vintage saw quite riper styles of reds than we have seen for a number of years. It also saw quite good yields, which meant that, while sugar levels crept up a bit, the overall flavours are still quite regional and the wines are still in the medium-bodied vein.” I questioned De Iuliis about whether he realised just how good the quality was, and he reckons it was his family that realised: “It was first noticed by my wife, who said she had never seen me so relaxed during vintage!” But it’s all very well casting such optimistic judgements during harvest. Only time would tell what the results of such an auspicious vintage would be. So, how did everything look a year on? With wines in bottle and ready to be judged at the Wine Show there was a fair bit of speculation riding on the quality. I was lucky to get to see a class of the 2014 reds and, on the whole, they were

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wonderfully consistent across the board with greater-than-usual fruit power for the region, and showing more amped-up flavour profiles, rather than the usual elegance associated with Hunter reds. This view is echoed by Gwyn Olsen, chief winemaker at Briar Ridge and Pepper Tree, who reckons the wines from 2014 are from the big end of town, which had a higher grape ripeness and overshadowed the 2013 vintage, which was probably more elegant. The best outcome for all the wineries, she says, was the fruit was disease-free and pristine due to there being no rain. I ask if the excellent quality changed anything in the winemaking. “The reds needed much less work and, more importantly, less oak. Based on the vintage, Pepper Tree was able to make the CF Block [see reviews on page 20], a new single-vineyard wine that was the result of the vintage turning out parcels of fruit so good they were kept aside for new wines.” Similarly, De Iuliis made a new singlevineyard wine due to the quality in the Talga Road Vineyard, a block from which they’ve sourced fruit for up to a decade. “The 2014 was the first time we did it as a stand-alone single-vineyard wine,” he says. “It’s quite unique, very rich and full-on for a Hunter. Even more impressive for this one-off is the fact that… it’s one of a handful of wines that made it onto James Halliday’s Top 100 wines for 2015 – the sad news for us is it’s already sold out.” Gundog Estate’s Matt Burton was another winemaker who capitalised on the 2014 quality by making a new wine. “The 2014 Rare Game Shiraz [see reviews] is the first of its kind for us,” he says. “A celebration of some of the best vineyard sites in the Hunter, it also gives a nod to the traditional ‘Hunter

Burgundy’ style of Shiraz from the area. We were really keen to deliver a focused, medium-bodied style offering great cellaring potential.” I ask Burton if he realised he was witnessing great-quality grapes as they came into the winery. “Yes, it became fairly obvious through sampling in the vineyard that things were looking very special. The flavour, colour and chemistry of the fruit were immediately impressive. As such, we looked to make the most of it and supplemented our Shiraz intake quite considerably.” If you want the final word on the matter, just see the judges’ comments from the Hunter Valley Wine Show after tasting a bracket of the 2014 Shiraz. “Superb class which shows the hype of the 2014 Shiraz from the Hunter not to be a myth. Stock up on this vintage, customers – it’s a cracker.” I couldn’t have said it better myself.

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WINE SHIRAZ

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: SHIRAZ BEING POURED INTO TANKS; BRIAR RIDGE AND PEPPER TREE CHIEF WINEMAKER GWYN OLSEN IN THE SHIRAZ VINEYARD; A JUICY BUNCH OF GRAPES; GUNDOG ESTATE WINEMAKER MATT BURTON LABELLING THE BARRELS.

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TOP DROPS

BROKENWOOD SHIRAZ 2014, $50, DRINK NOW TO 2025

Can’t wait for Graveyard? Sample Brokenwood’s straight Hunter Valley Shiraz. Medium-bodied and savoury with a concentrated fruit core. Drink with duck confit and mushroom risotto.

GUNDOG RARE GAME SHIRAZ 2014, $50, DRINK NOW TO 2030

A wine borne out of vintage, it’s a homage to the quality of the fruit in 2014. It exhibits dark fruit, a spicy oak palate, scintillating savoury undertones and a fine line of natural acidity. Drink with beef eye fillet and wild mushrooms.

AUDREY WILKINSON WINEMAKERS SELECTION SHIRAZ 2014, $38, DRINK NOW TO 2018

Winemaker Jeff Byrne lets the fruit do the talking with this medium-bodied style. Elegance and balance is the key here. Enjoy red fruit and chocolate flavours with a spicy, long palate. Drink with mature cheeses and muscatels.

BIMBADGEN SIGNATURE SHIRAZ 2014, $50, DRINK NOW TO 2025

This gold medal-winning wine shows plum fruit and savoury mixed spices. The spicy mocha fruit melds with firm tannins to present a complex Hunter Shiraz that will age perfectly. Drink with venison and juniper berries.

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FIRST CREEK SHIRAZ 2014, $35, DRINK NOW TO 2020

Super-talented winemaker Liz Jackson shows off her skills with this thrilling wine – a melange of sweet fruit with savoury undertones, a gorgeous palate weight and a seductively spicy length. Drink with beef massaman curry.

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WINE SHIRAZ

DE IULIIS STEVEN VINEYARD SHIRAZ 2014, $40, DRINK NOW TO 2020

The historic Steven Vineyard epitomises a more full-bodied Hunter style in 2014. Expect dark fruit flavours with a seemingly endless palate and wellpitched acidity. Drink with steak and mustard mash.

MEEREA PARK ‘THE AUNTS’ SHIRAZ 2014, $30, DRINK NOW TO 2025

Old-vine Shiraz from the heart of the Hunter Valley is put into open vats and then matured in French oak hogsheads. The result is an opulent and generous style that remains true to the region. Drink with steak and kidney pie.

PEPPER TREE CF BLOCK 2014, $50, DRINK NOW TO 2028

One of the more structured 2014 reds, so you’d probably want to cellar this for a few years. Superbly balanced between fruit weight, gravelly tannins and keen acidity. Drink with aged cheddar and lavash.

TINKLERS OLD VINES 2014, $35, DRINK NOW TO 2020

Of the two Shiraz that Usher Tinkler makes, this shows more restraint. Old Vines Shiraz is hand-plunged and basket-pressed to create a classic medium-bodied Hunter Valley red of real finesse. Drink with pork belly and celeriac puree. TULLOCH POKOLBIN DRY RED 2014, $30, DRINK NOW TO 2025

One of the icons of the Hunter Valley. Vivid, red-berry fruit, a hint of balanced oak, gorgeously layered tannins and bright acidity ensure it will cellar well. Drink with pappardelle and rabbit ragu.

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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WINE CHEAT SHEET

DOS & DON’TS NEW TO THE WINE SCENE AND A BIT UNSURE ABOUT WHAT TO DO – AND NOT DO – WHEN VISITING A CELLAR DOOR? HERE ARE 15 TIPS ON WINE-TASTING ETIQUETTE. WORDS: DANIEL HONAN

DON’T – EXPECT A FULL GLASS OF WINE

When tasting wine, the cellar door staff will serve you a tasting pour, not a full glass of wine. It will be enough for you to smell and taste the wine and decide if you like it or not. If you want more than what’s poured, you should buy a bottle to take home.

DO – TASTE WITH FRIENDS AND BOOK AHEAD Just like going out for dinner,

wine-tasting is always more enjoyable when you share the experience with friends and family. But if you have a group of eight or more it’s advisable to book ahead (particularly during school holidays and in peak season) so the cellar door can accommodate you.

DON’T – WEAR PERFUME

The smell of wine can be special and complex. Wearing too much perfume or aftershave when wine-tasting can overwhelm and impair your nose’s ability to detect a wine’s fine and complex aromas... and may upset the wine snob standing next to you.

DO – EAT BEFORE YOU TASTE

It’s not ideal to taste on an empty stomach so make sure you’re well fed before embarking on a day out

wine-tasting. However, avoid spicy foods and garlic as these can affect your palate and therefore the taste of the wine.

DON’T – SERVE YOURSELF

Cellar doors are licensed venues that must adhere to strict licensing conditions so never serve yourself or offer any wine to children. If the cellar door is busy, be patient and try to get the cellar door staff’s attention by raising your hand. Don’t yell out something like, “Hey you, we’re empty!” Always be polite.

DO – RESET YOUR PALATE

Keep your palate and all your senses in peak condition by sipping water between wines, especially when moving from whites to reds. Ideally, you should try to eat something plain, such as a cracker or some bread. It’s how the pros do it!

“Keep your palate and all your senses in peak condition by sipping water between wines." WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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WINE CHEAT SHEET

“You can taste wine just as well by spitting it out as you can by swallowing it."

DON’T – SMOKE

Smoking not only affects your ability to smell, it can interfere with other people’s wine-tasting experience, so no smoking in or near the cellar door please.

DO – TASTE IN ORDER

The order in which you taste wine can have a big impact on how your palate perceives flavour. Generally speaking, it’s always best to taste sparkling wine first, then whites, then reds (moving from light to heavy-bodied examples) and, finally, stopping at sweet wines and fortifieds.

DON’T – BE AFRAID TO SPIT

Did you know you can taste wine just as well by spitting it out as you can by swallowing it? Make sure you ask where the spittoon or spit bucket is before spitting into any empty object – it could be very embarrassing if you spit into a treasured vase or the water jug by mistake!

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DO – RINSE YOUR GLASS

Residue from the last wine you tasted can impact on the flavours of the wine you’re about to taste. Splash a small amount of the new wine into your glass, swish it around, then tip it out to ‘prime’ it for the next wine. Water is okay, too, but sometimes it can dilute or affect a wine’s overall character.

DON’T – DRINK COFFEE

Try to avoid drinking coffee right before a tasting. Its strong, bitter flavour can affect your palate’s ability to taste the wine properly.

DO – LEARN HOW TO ‘SEE, SWIRL, SNIFF AND SIP’

There are certain techniques you can use to help you understand the wine better. SEE the colour? If it’s bright it’s a young wine; if it’s dull it’s usually older. SWIRL the wine to activate its aromas. SNIFF the wine to find out what it smells like. Lastly, SIP, slowly, and think about the kind of flavours the wine reminds you of.

DON’T – EAT CHEWING GUM OR BREATH MINTS

Eating anything that has a strong flavour will distort and inhibit your ability to taste the wine properly. Leave the breath mints alone until after you’re done tasting for the day.

DO – BE POLITE

If you don’t like the taste of a certain wine, that’s okay – just politely say it’s not to your taste and move on to the next one. Never say anything nasty about a wine, because what you like or dislike is very subjective.

DON’T – OVERDO IT!

Be responsible while you’re wine-tasting. You’re here to have fun and enjoy your experience in the Hunter Valley – not to drink to excess. Pace yourself and plan to visit four wineries maximum in one day. Any more and you risk suffering from palate fatigue, which means all wines start tasting the same.

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Discover the best of the Hunter Valley all in one stunning location

Located high on a hill in the heart of Hunter Valley Wine Country, Bimbadgen is a striking winery and vineyard encompassing an expansive Cellar Door, award-winning Esca Bimbadgen Restaurant, cafe, outdoor amphitheatre, modern tasting rooms and accommodation. Bimbadgen Cellar Door Sunday to Thursday - 10am to 5pm Friday and Saturday - 10am to 7pm

790 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

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Esca Bimbadgen Restaurant Lunch 12 noon - 7 days Dinner from 6pm - Friday and Saturday

Phone: 4998 4600

www.bimbadgen.com.au

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RED OBSESSION WHETHER THEY’RE PLAYING OR CHEERING FROM THE SIDELINE, WINE COUNTRY LOCALS LOVE THEIR POKOLBIN REDS. WORDS: RICK ALLEN

PHOTOS: CHRIS ELFES

RHYS EATHER Meerea Park Wines, 2nd row, winemaker

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ANDREW MARGAN Margan Wines, No 7 breakaway, vigneron & winemaker

MICHAEL DE IULIIS De Iuliis Wines, tighthead prop No 3, winemaker

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WINE REDS STUART HORDERN Brokenwood Wines, 2nd row, senior winemaker

JEROME SCARBOROUGH Scarborough Wine Co., loosehead prop No 1, winemaker

OLLIE MARGAN Margan Wines, No 9 halfback, trainee winemaker

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HUNTER VALLEY REDS are elegant, soft and light on their feet and they age gracefully. Pokolbin Reds? Well, they’re not exactly elegant, and you’d call them soft at your peril. Light on their feet? Maybe 20 years ago. Will they age gracefully? Not if they can help it. The truth is Hunter reds and Pokolbin Reds don’t have lot in common. And nor should they. While you’re no doubt aware that Hunter reds – mostly, but not exclusively, those wonderful, earthy, medium-bodied Shiraz – are famous around the world, the Pokolbin Reds are somewhat less renowned. They’re the local Rugby Union side, whose numbers include more than a few of the winemakers and cellar door staff. And while the All Blacks are hardly shaking in their boots, the Pokolbin Reds love their footy and ripping into the opposition. On any given Saturday during Rugby season, if you’re doing a spot of winetasting and your winemaker is nowhere to be found, there’s every chance he’s

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“There’s a saying up here that it takes a lot of beer to make good wine.” down at Hunter Valley Gardens playing for – or cheering on – the local Reds. Margan, Eather, Riggs, Scarborough, Charteris, Duff, De Iuliis, Thomas, Tulloch… they’re all connected in one way or another as player, former player, sponsor, committee member, president or just keen supporter. Yep, Wine Country is proud Rugby country. The Reds play in the Newcastle Hunter Valley Rugby Union competition in the President’s Cup grade. They were formed in 2006 and since then have had their ups and downs – grand finals, courageous victories and the occasional smashing. And the players have loved every minute of it. Club president and winemaker Jerome Scarborough says there are now six junior teams, from under-8s to under-12s and, most importantly, the community has embraced their club.

“We love our footy,” he says. “Like many country clubs, our numbers fluctuate and we seem to have more players available for home matches than away games, but we have a good time and we want to set something up for our kids to follow.” The Reds’ website says it all: Our club was created to cater for those with a love of wine, Rugby and the good times associated with both. These days, the half – No 9 in Rugby parlance – is Andrew Duff, the chief winemaker at Tempus Two. He has spent time in New Zealand, where Rugby is like a religion, and says the sense of community is what makes the Reds such fun. “We don’t have a young side. Mind you, when Andrew Margan and Rhys Eather retire, the average age will drop 20 years. Make sure you print that,” he says, clearly happy with himself.

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WINE REDS

CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: PACKING DOWN FOR THE SCRUM; PRE-MATCH TALK; ANDREW AND RHYS CELEBRATE 100 GAMES; JUNIOR PLAYERS AND LOCALS CHEER ON THE POKOLBIN REDS.

“But we have the wives and girlfriends and work colleagues all there to watch. And it’s a great little ground. Even the visiting players comment on what a good atmosphere it is. “I guess, as players, we’re also aware that the junior players are there to cheer you on, and when you see them running about at half-time having a great time, you want to do well. “And what can be better than playing a game with your mates and then having a beer or two afterwards?” he says. “There’s a saying up here that it takes a lot of beer to make good wine. Well, that certainly applies to the Reds – and we’re making good wine.” Let’s go sideline. The Reds are in action, usually with winemakers Margan and Eather as two of the cornerstones of the

scrum: Margan at breakaway and Eather in the tight five. The ground has no fence, so the crowd gets close to the sidelines to hear the hits, see the sweat and gee-up their team. There’s wine flowing for the crowd, of course – this is Wine Country, after all. The much-loved Kolsch beer from Hunter Beer Co at Potters Hotel gets a good airing in the marquees and the sausage sizzle smells great. At half-time the junior players run out for a kickaround. Winemaker Andrew Thomas might even be out there having a kick with his sons. He’s a bit of a rarity in these parts, an Aussie Rules fan – the Sydney Swans in particular – so he’ll show he can still drop-punt with either foot, thank you very much. It’s a fun day. Afterwards, the older players and wives hang around the

ground for a while, trading yarns and talking about who played well. The younger players will have a drink or two and then move on to Harrigan’s Irish Pub, the team’s major sponsor. Margan and Eather have been doing this for years. Both were there in the foundation season of 2006 and played right to the end of 2015, when they had chalked up more than 100 games. But why would a smart bloke like Margan still be getting caught at the bottom of a ruck aged in his fifties? “I’ve played Rugby all my life, always at breakaway, No 7,” he says, by way of explanation. “I just love chasing the ball and putting pressure on the opposition. I’ve got a competitive spirit. I’d be the opposition’s worst nightmare – a real pest. “Besides, my wife never asked me to stop, my doctor liked the fact that I was getting exercise, and it was that loyalty thing you get from playing with your mates,” he adds. The All Blacks might have them for Rugby, but after the match the Pokolbin Reds crack a Hunter Shiraz or three – and, in that regard, they put the All Blacks in the shade. For the season draw and more info go to pokolbinrugby.com.au WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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PETERSON HOUSE PREMIUM SPARKLING WINES

Cellar Door Open 7 days 9am-5pm

Restaurant CuvĂŠe Breakfast 8.30am-11am Lunch 12pm-3pm

Oyster Bar Open 10am on weekends

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

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www.facebook.com/PetersonHouseltd

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DINE CLASSES

CLASS ACTION TEST YOUR CULINARY SKILLS AT THESE TOP COOKING SCHOOLS. WORDS: STEPHANIE CLIFFORD-SMITH PHOTOS: CHRIS ELFES

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DINE CLASSES

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TUSCANY WINE ESTATE RESORT COOKING SCHOOL Cooking classes at Tuscany Wine Estate are entirely flexible, according to chef Emilio Llausas. They can cater to any need, be it one person wanting a bespoke masterclass in ice-cream making or a large group of friends or corporates wanting to tackle a whole menu. “Our most popular class is when we get a corporate group of 12 and divide them into smaller groups of four and give each group a mystery box. That might have fruit, vegetables, meat or seafood in it and they have to make a three-course meal with it,” he says. “There’ll be an added challenge as part of that where I might dictate the main ingredient, say chocolate, for the dessert.”

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CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: MAKING LASAGNE SHEETS; CHEF EMILIO LLAUSAS PLATING UP THE OPEN SPINACH AND SAFFRON LASAGNE.

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“It’s so much more effective for learning than reading a cookbook.” In the mystery box classes Emilio’s role is just to assist with technique, such as safe and efficient knife skills, and to answer questions along the way. “I judge their efforts with our conference manager at the end, based on presentation, flavour and creativity, and the competition between them is a lot of fun.” When he teaches a specific three-course menu he finds the recurring theme is questions about freezing suitability and advance preparation. “Some students come in afraid to even hold a knife but the process of one-on-one

mentoring gives them confidence and shows them how easy the technique can be,” he says. Insider tips he shares, such as mixing salt with ice to keep it solid before placing natural oysters on it, often surprise students. “And that touch of salt in caramel, they can’t believe how well it goes!” Participants go into The Conservatory room to enjoy eating whatever they’ve made in the class. “It’s so much more effective for learning than reading a cookbook. Being hands-on makes all the difference,” Emilio says.

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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 T (02) 4998 7134

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DINE CLASSES

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“Each gnocchi has its own personality!”

Sangiovese, with it,” Noreen says. Classes of up to 10 students run for about two hours. Corporates, friends and family groups organise themselves and sign up. “They always have a great time – it’s great to see. There’s a real sense of achievement about making the gnocchi and they take some home with them, along with recipes.” Noreen’s tip for super-good gnocchi? “The challenge is not to overwork the dough. You’re not trying to develop the gluten like you would when making bread. You need to treat it lightly.”

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Students in the gnocchi class held at Il Cacciatore really get a feel for the craft as each one makes a pile of the potatobased dumplings at their own station. “We teach gnocchi classes because we wanted to do something achievable that didn’t require special equipment,” says managing director Noreen Gottaas. “Not only do they make the gnocchi, but we demonstrate different ways of serving it.” Starting with the gnocchi made in the class, Noreen or her chef, Nicole Hall, prepare a version with garlic prawns,

capers and asparagus in a lemon butter sauce and another sauteed with chorizo, pumpkin and baby spinach. “They’re both potato-based gnocchi dishes and the students get a recipe for a spinach and ricotta gnocchi, all of which are served at lunch. They sit down to eat and say, ‘Oh, that one looks like mine.’ Each gnocchi has its own personality!” she says. The three preparations of gnocchi are served on platters in the middle of the table with salad, followed by tiramisu or creme brulee for dessert. “Of course, we serve Italian varietal wines, such as Pinot Grigio and

GNOCCHI-MAKING CLASS AT IL CACCIATORE RESTAURANT

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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: HAND-FORMING THE DUMPLINGS ON A GNOCCHI BOARD; ROLLING OUT THE POTATO GNOCCHI; ASSEMBLING THE SIDE SALAD.

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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 “Five Star Winery” 2016 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 HV006.indb 35

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DINE CLASSES

MAJORS LANE COOKING SCHOOL

than in groups, so they get to tackle every aspect of the preparation. “Every menu is different, but if there are curry pastes to be made we’ll start there. Sometimes we make the desserts first if they need freezing or setting time. It’s all served as a multi-course banquet with a glass of Majors Lane wine, and students take home a souvenir apron, as well as all the recipes,” Ben says. He believes the classes, which run every Saturday from 10am to 1pm, are great because students get to share in his expertise of Asia. “It’s not just about the food either. I talk about the culture and the religious significance of the food. With an average of six to 10 people you get a good group dynamic and people have their own stories to add to mine,” he says. For those who are up for a more European experience with just a few Asian twists, Ben offers a smoking and curing masterclass on Sundays. “I’m a fifth-generation European, so smoking

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It’s chef Ben Sales’ obsession with street food that drives the hands-on Asian cooking classes he conducts at Majors Lane. “We don’t do any recipes here that I haven’t seen made myself on the street. I’ve travelled extensively throughout Asia for the past 20 years and we specialise in street food,” he says. The Thai class covers making green and red curry pastes, cooking pad Thai, as well as preparing massaman curry from scratch, grinding all the ingredients with the mortar and pestle. “In Sichuan cookery we talk about the use of Sichuan peppercorns and chilli, both dry and fresh, and in the Vietnamese class we discuss the importance of fish sauce and how to make your own. We do authentic dipping sauces and accompaniments with all the meals and replicate exactly how the food is made in its country of origin,” says Ben. Students work on their own rather

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“We replicate exactly how the food is made in its country of origin.” is something I’ve been involved with my whole life,” he says. “The masterclass is not hands-on at all; the students watch me. We do four hotsmoked dishes. For example, I show the students how to smoke pieces of salmon fillet that have been coated with wasabi and dill. Once those are finished smoking, which I do at the table, the students taste it. I then show them how to turn the remaining pieces of smoked salmon into a salmon pate, which they then taste, too. I also smoke king prawns and finish them with an Asian-inspired smoked chicken skewer.” Ben talks students through the differences between hot and cold smoking, brining versus curing, how to select produce and prepare it for smoking, timber selection and the different smokers available.

ABOVE: CHEF BEN SALES GIVING STUDENTS TIPS ON COOKING PRAWN PAD THAI; BELOW: THE TRAY OF COLOURFUL INGREDIENTS.

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Nanna Kerr's Kitchen - Pokolbin 16 Pokolbin Mountains Road, Hunter Valley NSW 2320 Open Thursday to Monday 1Oam - 5pm Breakfast & Lunch Nan's Super Indulgent Afternoon Tea - $35 per person

Nanna Kerr's Kitchen - Lovedale Emma's Cottage Vineyard, 438 Wilderness Road, Lovedale NSW 2320 Open Thursday to Monday 8am - 5pm Breakfast, Lunch & Nan's Super Indulgent Afternoon Tea DINNER - Bookings Only from 6pm Nan's Tasting Menu 5-Courses $59 ($88 with matched wines) 7-Courses $79 ($115 with matched wines) Call Nan to book your table or plan your event at either venue on 02 4998 7333 or 0427 679 887 nannakerrskitchen.com.au

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DINE CLASSES

HUNTER VALLEY CANDY SCHOOL

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‘Sugarphobes’ may not want to apply to do executive chef Phil Collis’ comprehensive candy-making classes at The Hunter Valley Resort, but they’d be missing out on some expert tuition. Students begin by learning to temper three different types of chocolate – a 55 per cent dark chocolate, a 38 per cent milk chocolate and a 28 per cent white chocolate. “Everyone tries them all and we talk about the textures and tastes and the differences between commercial chocolate and the couverture chocolate we use in class,” Phil says. The next skill tackled is how to make toffee properly. “They learn how to avoid crystallisation and other problems that happen at home with toffee-making. From there, we make alcoholic marshmallows, or ‘boozemallows’. The booze depends on the day but we might use a liqueur Muscat or Kahlua. Typically, flavours that go well with chocolate are VOK strawberry liqueur or raspberry vodka. Then I demonstrate a peanut or macadamia nut brittle and we assemble all those components into a big piece of rocky road.” Everyone has a go at spinning toffee and making toffee cages, as well as making chocolate-dipped strawberries, all packed into a 90-minute class, he says. “There’s some sweet-wine drinking involved as well. It’s all about the sweet stuff. We use Muscat, Moscato and Botrytis wines. They all pair up very nicely with a piece of chocolate or marshmallow.” The highlight for most people is the toffee-making, Phil says, and they’re surprised at how easy it is.

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FROM ABOVE: CHEF PHIL COLLIS SHOWING STUDENTS HOW TO TEMPER CHOCOLATE; SLICING PEANUT BRITTLE; CHOCOLATE FOR THE ROCKY ROAD. “A lot of them have had bad experiences at home with crystallisation and burning, so to learn how to make perfect toffee every time is great. “The trick to a good toffee is you treat it like your sensitive friend – don’t stir it, don’t provoke it, and when it’s ready it’ll let you know. The rate of the bubbles and the colour tell you everything.” Phil says students appreciate having a teacher there to quiz about technique while they experience the process firsthand. But why offer confectionary classes? “It’s just something different for the area. We’ve been doing cooking schools here for nine years but we wanted to offer something short. Because a lot of people only visit for a couple of days, they want quick but also fun and informative. We figured, who doesn’t like chocolate and alcohol? So we introduced this,” he says. At the end of the class all that’s left to do is carve up that huge slab of rocky road for students to take home, their sugar cravings sated for now.

WANT TO LEARN MORE? SPANISH Spanish paella classes run at The Verandah, where students finish with a lunch of jamon, freshly baked bread, paella and sangria. verandahrestaurant.com.au

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PERSIAN

ITALIAN

JAPANESE

Make Persian-style marinated fetta, quark, creme fraiche, butter and ricotta at Pure Cheese with cheesemakers from Hunter Belle Cheese. purecheese.com.au

Millfield Hall teaches regional French and Tuscan cooking, often with the help of high-profile guest chefs. Learn to make pizza and cook it in Hall’s wood-fired oven. millfieldhall.com.au

Sandalyn Wilderness Estate has something for both Japanese and Italian devotees with sushi or pasta classes followed by a two-course alfresco lunch. sandalyn.com.au

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PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

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DINE LAMB

IT MIGHT BE available all year round, but when the temperature drops, appetites often turn to lamb. The Australian palate has long appreciated this meat that can range from delicate to robust, but the animal’s domestication predates even that of cattle and pigs. Around the world lamb is linked with feasts and celebrations, from weddings to religious holidays such as Eid, Passover and Easter. Because lamb is usually butchered young – between three and 12 months – almost any cut suits roasting, with the muscular forequarter cuts naturally taking longer. The younger the lamb the leaner it is, but sharp accompaniments such as classic mint sauce complement the fattier cuts. Pungent herbs such as thyme, rosemary and oregano also work a treat with the meat’s richness. It’s the ideal choice when warmth and comfort is craved but beef seems a bit much. The meat’s sweetness partners perfectly with the root vegetables flooding the markets at this time of the year and cuts such as shanks and shoulders melt delectably into sticky tenderness when slow-braised. Oodles of restaurants in the Hunter Valley showcase lamb on their menus but Margan Restaurant, which sets the benchmark for sustainable restaurant practices, goes that one step further with its own flock of healthy black Suffolk

lambs grazing on lush pastures. You might find lamb with broccolini, parsnip and preserved lemon on the regular menu, but the estate also holds the Margan 100 Metre Meal each weekend in June, with all ingredients grown on site within 100 metres of the restaurant. This includes the estate-grown Suffolk lamb, which is usually served with vegetables from the extensive kitchen garden and a glass of Margan’s estate wine. Emerson Rodriguez from Emerson’s Cafe & Restaurant is another lamb-lover with lamb on the menu all year round. “I don’t use the prime cuts,” he says. “I prefer the cheaper cuts, like shoulder, shanks and leg, as they have more flavour, particularly when slow-cooked. “Of course, it’s important to use a good breed,” he adds. “I use Dorset lamb from Somerset Meats, which is sourced from the Cowra region, one of the best lambrearing areas. I’ve been using Dorset lamb for the past 20 years and the same meat supplier for 15, so I can’t emphasise enough how important it is to track down a good breed and butcher. “I love this lamb shank recipe (see page 42) because it’s simple, tasty food,” he explains. “This dish is your typical rustic comfort food and it’s very easy to re-create at home. Anyone can have a go, as the oven does all the cooking.”

TOP CHEFS REVEAL THEIR SLOW-COOKED LAMB FAVOURITES TO FIRE UP YOUR APPETITE THIS WINTER. WORDS: STEPHANIE CLIFFORD-SMITH

THE LAMB SHANK

REDEMPTION WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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BRAISED LAMB SHANKS WITH HERB CRUSHED POTATOES SERVES 2 Ingredients • 4 lamb shanks • 100g plain flour, for dusting • 100ml vegetable oil • 4 cloves garlic • 1 large onion, diced • 2 large carrots, diced • 2 sticks celery, diced • bunch thyme • • • •

2 bay leaves 150g tomato paste 1 large orange, peel and juice 500ml good red wine

• 1.5L chicken stock or lamb stock • salt and pepper, to taste Herb crushed potatoes • 400g desiree potatoes, peeled • 1 clove garlic, crushed • 50g flat-leaf parsley, chopped • bunch chives, chopped • 30g oregano, chopped • lemon, zest and juice • 75ml extra virgin olive oil • salt and pepper, to taste

Method 1. Preheat oven to 180°C. 2. Dust shanks with flour. Thoroughly seal over medium heat in a heavybase pot until golden brown. Remove shanks from pot and set aside. 3. Add vegetable oil to the same pot and saute garlic, onion, carrots and celery. Add thyme, bay leaves, tomato paste and orange peel and juice. Add red wine, stock and shanks. Season to taste. 4. Put the lid on the pot and cook in the oven for 2 hours or until shanks are tender and falling off the bone. 5. Meanwhile, to make herb crushed potatoes, boil potatoes in water until tender. Remove from water and allow to dry. In a bowl, crush potatoes with a fork, add garlic, herbs, lemon zest and juice and olive oil. Mix well and season to taste. 6. To serve, place herb crushed potatoes in the middle of the serving bowl and top with shanks. Pour over some of the braising liquid and serve. Wine match: Emerson’s 2009 Hunter Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Emerson’s Cafe & Restaurant, 492 Lovedale Road, Lovedale, 02 4930 7029, emersonsrestaurant.com.au

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PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

DINE LAMB

SHAKEY TABLES @ HUNTER COUNTRY LODGE 1476 Wine Country Dr, Nth Rothbury, 02 4938 1744, shakeytables.com.au There’s a distinctly Scottish lilt to Shakey Tables chef Paula Rengger’s parsleycrusted lamb loin. A Scot herself, she serves the lamb with a haggis bonbon, minted pea puree, pearl barley, whisky and currant jus. “The barley gives a lovely rustic texture and the whisky and currant jus is really warming,” she says. “I use my own lamb for the dish and a little goes a long way – it has such a robust flavour.” Wine match: Shakey Tables 2011 Estate Shiraz

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DINE LAMB

430 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale, 02 4991 0944, crowneplazahuntervalley.com.au It’s the lamb saddle getting Redsalt Restaurant executive chef James Ashton’s full attention at the moment – boned, stuffed with Swiss chard and the lamb’s kidneys, rolled and roasted to pink. “We serve it with saffron jus because lamb and saffron are best mates – the Iranians and Afghanis will tell you that – as well as baby vegetables, including turnips, potatoes and carrots,” he says. James chooses Milly Hill lamb for its distinctive grassy flavours and consistency. Wine match: Scarborough Wine Co. Pinot Noir NV

PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

REDSALT RESTAURANT @ CROWNE PLAZA HUNTER VALLEY

NANNA KERR’S KITCHEN @ EMMA’S COTTAGE VINEYARD 438 Wilderness Road, Rothbury, 0434 234 144, nannakerrskitchen.com.au Lamb stars in many guises on chefs Matt Kerr and Jimmy Wright’s autumn and winter menus, including in salads and pies, but the dish they believe best characterises Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen is slow-cooked lamb shoulder served pulled. “We braise the meat for four hours in red wine and rosemary and then reduce the cooking liquor to a jus,” Jimmy explains. “It’s served with homemade organic ratatouille and mashed potatoes – it’s that simple. It’s posh Nan food, which is really what we do.” Wine match: Domaine de Binet 2013 Grenache Barbera Nebbiolo

HARVEST RESTAURANT @ HOPE ESTATE 2213 Broke Road, Pokolbin, 02 4993 3555, hopeestate.com.au The inspiration behind the signature nigella-encrusted lamb loin is a pie that chef Mert Tansu grew up eating in his native Turkey. “In my modern interpretation we make and cook puff pastry in sheets, then grind it with nigella seeds, which makes the crumb lighter and helps it stick. The black seeds contrast really well with the pink lamb,” he says. Mert serves the lamb with celeriac puree, fresh peas and thyme essence. Wine match: Hope Estate Grown Shiraz 2013

THE CELLAR RESTAURANT @ HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS VILLAGE Broke Road, Pokolbin, 02 4998 7584, the-cellar-restaurant.com.au Chef Andy Wright’s customers won’t let him take the eight-hour braised lamb shoulder off the menu. Even in summer the restaurant sells about 20 serves a week but in the cooler months that figure triples. “I just serve it with whatever looks good at the market – roast sweet potatoes, parsnips and carrots go well,” he says. “A bit of minted yoghurt on the side cuts through the richness of the meat and works with the vegetables, too.” Wine match: Brokenwood 1998 Mistress Block Shiraz WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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MISTLETOE is a small family owned and run winery that was established by the current owners in 1989. Now in its 26th year, Mistletoe’s “no-compromise” 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

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DINE PRODUCE

MADE IN THE HUNTER DISCOVER A WORLD OF GREAT COFFEE AT THIS POPULAR LOCAL ROASTER. WORDS: BRENDA CHRISTIAN

TOP BEANS ETHIOPIA – LIMU

BRAZILIAN – ALTO CARMELO

Limu coffee is renowned for its balanced body and sweet, spicy and wine-like flavours. Considered one of the premium gourmet coffees worldwide. 1KG, $50.00

The Alto Carmelo has light, sweet flavour characteristics, with a nutty aroma and good crema production. Makes a wonderful sweet espresso. 250G, $12.50

GUATEMALAN (SHB) ‘Strictly Hard Bean’, or SHB, is the highest-quality coffee from Guatemala. Medium weight with a silky palate that leaves a beautiful nutty, milk chocolate flavour. Great for cappuccino. 500G, $25.00

WHEN ASKED HOW important the quality of the beans is to making great coffee, Contango Espresso Roasters’ primary barista, Mollie McPherson, is emphatic. “The quality of the green bean and its origin, from the field to the roaster to the grinder to the cup, is as important as the quality of the grapes harvested when making wine, from the vine to the bottle to the glass,” she says. “Each origin makes that bean unique in flavour, size, texture and density. All of the stages in the process have a desired effect on the final outcome of a great cup of coffee.” And she should know – Contango serves anywhere between 200 and 1000 cups of coffee each week! The specialty roasting facility and cafe has been hand-roasting up to 60 kilos on site weekly in a Roastmax Roaster since the cafe opened at Pepper Tree Wines in 2012. They source single-origin coffee beans from countries with the best growing conditions, including Ethiopia, Papua New Guinea, Brazil and Guatemala. Apart from the regular milk-based coffees, the cafe also introduced cold drip in 2015, which they use for iced coffees and cooler summer drinks. With six varieties to choose from, what’s the most popular roast? “It’s the III Bean Classic blend,” says Mollie. “It combines a secret blend of our Ethiopian, Guatemalan and Brazilian beans. It’s a medium-bodied style with excellent crema and a smooth, velvety finish.” And her personal favourite? “I love our Brazilian blend. It’s very smooth and has a light, sweet flavour that I really enjoy.” Visit the cafe daily at 86 Halls Road, Pokolbin, or purchase beans via the online shop at peppertreewines.com.au WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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PHOTO: ROBBIE WARDEN

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EXPLORE CONCERTS

STARS TAKE TO THE STAGE LOOKING FOR THE BEST CONCERT EXPERIENCE EVER? THE HUNTER VALLEY SETS THE BAR HIGH. WORDS: MELINDA KELLY

PHOTO HOWARD ARCHBOLD / WINEPIX

FLEETWOOD MAC LIGHTS UP HOPE ESTATE AND WOWS THE CROWD. WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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PHOTO: ROBBIE WARDEN

EXPLORE CONCERTS

ABOVE: FLEETWOOD MAC ROCKS HOPE ESTATE; RIGHT: BILLY IDOL AT BIMADGEN ESTATE.

ELTON JOHN, Dolly Parton, The Eagles, The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, Sting, Paul Simon, k.d. lang, Leonard Cohen, Elvis Costello, Diana Krall, Blondie, The Pretenders… Want more? Rod Stewart, Chris Isaak, Neil Diamond, Duran Duran, Tom Jones, Alicia Keys, Lionel Richie, Simply Red, John Mellencamp, Fleetwood Mac… By any reckoning the Hunter Valley is a favoured destination for many of the world’s best performers. Throw in some of the world’s greatest wines, stunning vineyard backdrops and country hospitality, and it’s no wonder that an outdoor concert in Wine Country is on everyone’s bucket list. “Living in Sydney, I get access to so many great concerts, but my favourites have definitely been in the Hunter Valley,” says music fan Donna Taylor.

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“I’ve seen many gigs, but the top ones have been here in the Hunter Valley.” “Along with The Rolling Stones’ concert at Hope Estate, Fleetwood Mac is among my top three concert experiences of all time,” she adds. “They were both absolutely brilliant and sharing them with good friends and great Hunter Valley wines, what’s not to love?” A self-confessed concert junkie, Mark Hughes from Newcastle is a regular. “Gigs in the Hunter Valley have become a ritual for our family in summer. Living in Newcastle, it’s as if these iconic bands are playing in my own backyard,” he says. “We gather friends and family and make a whole day of it – the restaurants, cafes and cellar doors are buzzing with people.

No matter if it’s Hope Estate, Bimbadgen or Roche Estate, we find our usual spots on the grass and settle in. “I’ve seen many gigs, but the top ones have been here in the Hunter Valley. Fleetwood Mac was sensational. I waited my whole life to hear Stevie Nicks sing “Wait a minute baby, stay with me a while” and for Lindsey Buckingham to play the ‘Big Love’ solo and they didn’t disappoint.” Also at the Fleetwood Mac concert was Simone Goode from Newcastle, who treated her husband, James, to tickets for his 40th birthday. “We’re massive Fleetwood Mac fans and I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate,” James says.

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EXPLORE CONCERTS “They were absolutely awesome and the whole evening was pretty much perfect.” “Apart from the amazing acts, what I love about coming to concerts in the Hunter Valley is it’s just so easy and you don’t have to stress about anything,” Simone says. “I booked coach transfers with Rover Coaches, so we just jumped on the bus at Adamstown near where we live and arrived in plenty of time to have a relaxing picnic and a few glasses of wine before the show began. The fact that you can enjoy sampling great Hunter Valley wines and not have to worry about driving home is a real plus.” Insider tip: if you’re driving home, it’s a good idea to pack some extra cheese and crackers to enjoy post show and wait out the traffic. After such a fantastic night who wants to leave in a hurry anyway?

HOPE ESTATE The largest of the three major concert venues, Hope Estate is located on Broke Road in the heart of Pokolbin and regularly sees crowds of up to 20,000 people turn up to see a string of rock royalty. “Seeing The Rolling Stones at Hope Estate was a once-in-a-lifetime moment,” Mark says. “Mick and Keith, despite their age, still have it, and with a backlog of

songs at their disposal, the gig reached near-legendary status. “Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band kicking off their show with a rousing 12-minute version of Eric Burdon & War’s ‘Spill the Wine’ was euphoric, and the gig – all three hours of it – continued on an upward trajectory from there. I now know why they call him The Boss.” Simone was surprised by how smoothly the Fleetwood Mac event went. “One of the things that really impressed me at Hope Estate was the level of organisation,” she says. “When you have such a large crowd of people you expect long queues, but that just didn’t happen.” Hope Estate is a fully catered venue, so there’s strictly no BYO food or beverages. However, you won’t go thirsty or hungry as the venue offers a number of catered hospitality packages that include food and beverages along with a ticket to the concert. There are also oodles of food stalls from local restaurants offering an array of dishes. Or, if you prefer a relaxed snack, you can pre-purchase a picnic hamper (and, yep, a bottle of wine is included). There’s also a craft brewery on site, so beer devotees can enjoy the freshest brew.

BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE! In addition to the big-name acts, the Hunter Valley plays host to the following music festivals: THE GUM BALL

Held on April 22–24 in secluded bushland at Dashville. dashville.com.au PIGSTY IN JULY

hopeestate.com.au

A one-day, adultsonly music event held on July 2. dashville.com.au OPERA IN THE VINEYARDS

Enjoy open-air opera at Roche Estate on October 8. 4di.com.au JAZZ IN THE VINES

A jazz party in the paddock at Tyrrell’s Wines on October 29. jazzinthevines.com.au PHOTO: TIM BRADSHAW

FOLK IN BROKE

Intimate folk, blues, country and roots festival on November 12. brokefordwich.com.au

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PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

EXPLORE CONCERTS

LEGENDARY ARTIST ELTON JOHN PERFORMING AT ROCHE ESTATE.

BIMBADGEN ESTATE Bimbadgen Estate has been hosting the hugely successful A Day on the Green concert series since 2002. Located high on the hill on McDonalds Road, Pokolbin, the natural amphitheatre is surrounded by lush green vineyards and boasts an impressive view. With a capacity of around 8000 people, it’s a more intimate outdoor concert experience. While there are fully catered marquees, dining options at Bimbadgen’s award-winning restaurant, Esca, and a host of food stalls, it’s on the estate’s lawned general entry section that you’ll find groups sipping wine in the fresh air with picnics spread out for friends and family to enjoy. “I’d have to say my most memorable vineyard gig was Leonard Cohen at A Day on the Green a few years ago,” Mark says. “Never before have I experienced a crowd of people in near silence hanging on every word. “The fact that you can take children under the age of 12 for free creates such a delightful family atmosphere,” he adds.

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“Perching my five-year-old daughter on my shoulders to groove to Billy Idol singing ‘Dancing with Myself’ will live with me forever. And jiving on the grass with my wife and two sons while Blondie belted out ‘One Way or Another’ and ‘Atomic’ was sheer unbridled fun.” bimbadgen.com.au

ROCHE ESTATE Located on the corner of Broke and McDonalds Roads, Roche Estate is home to Tempus Two and Meerea Park cellar doors, the Smelly Cheese Shop, Goldfish cocktail bar and Oishii Japanese & Thai Restaurant. It’s also a premier concert venue hosting top international and Australian artists – including Olivia Newton-John and John Farnham, to name but two – and has facilities for up to 20,000 people. “A group of friends and I came to the Neil Diamond concert and it was absolutely fantastic,” says Deb Cremins from Sydney. “We had dinner and cocktails before the concert, then shared some Tempus Two wine during the outdoor

show – it was such a great night.” Along with the existing on-site restaurants, dining options include a variety of food stalls and pre-ordered hampers or you can bring your own picnic. Like the other venues, there are lawn and seated options… and differing views about which is best. Ask one person and they’ll say a seat close to the stage with killer views can’t be beat, but ask the group bustin’ a groove in the lawn section without anyone telling them to sit down in their seats and they’ll swear they’ve got the best spot in the place. For me, personally, the best concert experience I’ve had at Roche Estate was seeing k.d. lang several years ago. I’ve seen her perform at least six times in Sydney and New Zealand, but sitting under a huge, star-filled sky and soaking in her stunning voice was just magical. rocheestate.com.au

WANT MORE?

CHECK OUT THE VENUES’ WEBSITES FOR UPCOMING ACTS OR GO TO WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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Our collection is available at our Cellar Door in the Hunter Valley every day from 10am till 5pm. Cnr Broke and McDonalds Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 02 4993 3999 cellardoor@tempustwo.com.au

Official wine partner of

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A TALE OF TWO HUNTERS THE HUNTER VALLEY HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE, NO MATTER WHAT YOUR PASSION, PALATE OR PARTY SIZE. HERE, TWO RECENT VISITORS SHARE THEIR FAVOURITE EXPERIENCES AND INSPIRE YOU TO CREATE YOUR OWN. MEET ANDY

CYCLING

Andy Lawrence is a Sydneybased photographer who chose the Hunter Valley for a family weekend away and to stock up on grape-related supplies. Follow him on Instagram @lessthanasecond

EXP

THE CRICKET PITCH My dad was pretty chuffed to find Brokenwood has some of its vines growing on the old village cricket pitch. And even more chuffed with its Pinot Noir. Delicious!

My family are all keen cyclists so some two-wheeled vineyard adventuring was perfect for us.

MEET LA BOVARDIA La BoVardia is a travelling storyteller, philosopher and artist who visited the Hunter Valley for a friend’s wedding. You can share her adventures on Instagram by following @la_bovardia

IN VINO VERITAS

INC

GOLFING

The Latin saying, “In wine there is truth,” is a concept expressed in most cultures around the world. One random truth I learnt in the Hunter Valley is I love Shiraz. Tiger Woods has a driver swing of around 210km per hour. I practised, but truth is I ain’t no Tiger Woods!

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EXPLORE DAY TRIPPER

LEARNING EXPLORING

CHEESE DREAMS STAYING IN A TIPI

Tyrrell’s not only delivered awesome views and great wines but also an education about the cycle of the vines.

With all our pedalling, we worked up a pretty good appetite and were easily led across the way to the Hunter Valley Cheese Company. Its Grape Vine Ashed Brie is something else!

INCREDIBLE LUNCH LATIN VIBE At Harkham Wines a friend opened a temporary restaurant called Pop Up, where the margaritas are amazing, the beer is cold, the wines are natural and the food is fresh with a Latin street food twist. Perfectus! WANT MORE?

UNEARTH MORE INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCES AND SHARE YOUR OWN AT WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

DINNER VALLEY VISTAS We’d heard some great things about the views from Audrey Wilkinson and it didn’t disappoint. It’s the perfect place to soak up a Semillon and spectacular scenery.

COOKING CLASS CRAFT BEER

DINNER CHILLING OUT

Thank you brewer Keith Grice at Hunter Beer Co for the once-in-a-lifetime Spring Fling, a delightful bespoke ‘wedding’ beer crafted from elderflowers and roses.

Relaxing in the pool of the Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, pondering the entire Latin saying, “In vino veritas, in aqua sanitas” (In wine there is truth, in water there’s health).

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Home Grown Traditions When you have someone to share your passion with, anything is possible. Ian & Merralea Scarborough may have started Scarborough Wine Co. in the late 70s, however creating amazing wine runs in this family. Over 10 years ago Jerome Scarborough returned to the Hunter Valley to collaborate with Ian and became the second winemaker for Scarborough Wine Co. Working so closely with your family can be tough, however both Ian and Jerome have always found

Scarborough Wine Co. 179 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin

Scarborough on Hermitage 972 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

common ground when it comes to making great wine.

Their combined passion is driving Ian and Jerome to not only continue producing wines like their classic Yellow Label Chardonnay, but creating new traditions such as their Pinot Noir Rosé and I.M Red blend. 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

Celebrating 31 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

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PHOTO CHRIS ELFES

EXPLORE PROFILE

GREEN THUMB THIS MASTER GARDENER REALLY DIGS HIS JOB, WITH 25 HECTARES UNDER HIS CARE. WORDS: CHRISTINE SALINS

PHOTOS: CHRISTOPHER IRELAND

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LIFE COULD HAVE taken a very different turn for Sean O’Brien, head gardener at Hunter Valley Gardens. “Originally I wanted to be a marine biologist, but I can’t swim,” he laughs. Instead, the 44-year-old spends his days cultivating and nurturing the world-class attraction that Bill and Imelda Roche’s 25-hectare showpiece has become. It’s a job that challenges and inspires him, and he’s well aware of the legacy he has helped to create: “Way after I’m gone this garden will still be here.” Although he grew up in urban Sydney, his father was from the country near Cowra and the young O’Brien was keen to follow suit – but only after his dreams of underwater exploration were dealt a terminal blow when it was explained to him that he needed to swim. “My whole

idea then was to be a farmer and run acres,” he says. After gaining a diploma from Hawkesbury Agricultural College, he studied at TAFE in Kurri Kurri and Ryde, his focus shifting from agriculture to urban horticulture and landscape design. A job at a Sydney garden centre while he was studying turned into a full-time role. While there, he heard about the Hunter Valley Gardens job and, in 2004, a year after the Gardens opened, he was appointed horticultural manager. In 2010 his role expanded to include overseeing the landscaping at the Roches’ other interests, including Roche Estate, Harrigan’s Irish Pub and Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village. He heads a team of 35. “It’s a diverse role. It’s certainly something I didn’t study at uni,” he says.

Sean says the Roches were initially cautious about letting him have an input in the garden’s design, but these days there are “little bits of Sean O’Brien throughout the garden”. “The essence of the garden is Bill’s and he’s still very hands-on. He’s very passionate about it. But, over the years, he has let me throw in suggestions. He lets me have a fair bit of rein. He doesn’t like masses of blue; he thinks it looks dark. It’s the one rule I try to stick to.” Sean is up for the challenge of trialling plants in the “reasonably harsh” Hunter Valley climate. “Yesterday was 42 degrees Celsius and the coldest we’ve ever had since I’ve been here is minus five,” he says. “Sometimes you win and sometimes you lose. My greatest success at the moment is Delonix regia, or poinciana (which thrives in the tropics, where it is blanketed in bright-red blooms). It hasn’t flowered yet, but it’s still alive.” He tries to travel and look at other gardens for inspiration. “There are always new plants coming out. There’s a great cool-climate garden in Oberon called Mayfield Garden that inspires me (it’s open to the public for three weeks in spring and autumn) and I like visiting Roma Street Parkland in Brisbane.” He has travelled most frequently to China, where the Christmas lights he CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: SEAN LIKES TO TRIAL NEW PLANTS IN THE GARDENS; THE TOOLS OF THE TRADE; REPOTTING BEGINS; SEAN STROLLS AROUND THE MEANDERING PATHS, TAKING IT ALL IN; WHEN SEAN’S NOT IN THE GARDEN HE’S IN THE POLYTUNNEL GREENHOUSE.

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EXPLORE PROFILE vegetables, fruit and herbs, it has plenty of space for the children to run around in. Sean’s respite is a regular round of golf. “We’ve got some good courses in the Hunter Valley: Cypress Lakes; the Greg Norman-designed course at The Vintage; and Crowne Plaza.” He’s a big fan of Scarborough Wine Co. and De Iuliis Wines and, as for restaurants, he says, “Muse Restaurant is always good. Two Fat Blokes is great for casual dining, and so are Harrigan’s and the Brasserie at Potters Brewery.” Two different birdcalls almost drown out our conversation, leading Sean to reflect on the transformation of

“Plants only grow so fast. They’re like people; they have their own idiosyncrasies.”

the Gardens from a blank canvas to a garden prolific with wildlife. “We’ve got 60 species of birds, frogs and snakes. They’ve all come back.” Seeing the garden evolve keeps the job interesting. “Year after year you always have something new to do. The planning that I do is in years, not weeks. I’d like to see a maze go in one day, and I’d like to see the garden become more interactive.” If there’s one thing he’s learnt, it’s patience. “Plants only grow so fast. They’re like people; they have their own idiosyncrasies.” Visit Hunter Valley Gardens at 2090 Broke Road, Pokolbin. hvg.com.au

uses at the Gardens are made. “In China, I make an effort to visit the Shanghai Botanical Garden, which is amazing. It’s interesting seeing how they tie the landscape into their way of life.” He pauses to think about which part of the garden is his favourite, eventually deciding on the oriental area. “I like neat and tidy; I’m not a rambling cottage type gardener. Bill enjoys creating new areas and building new garden beds. Imelda’s favourite area is the Lakes Walk, a path that meanders past creeks and streams.” Visitors vary throughout the year. In spring they tend to be “keen, passionate gardeners who take it all in from a purely horticultural point of view”. In summer visitors are more family-oriented. Winter has given birth to the popular

‘Snow Time in the Garden’ show, while the Christmas Lights Spectacular takes about six months to organise. It began with a few flashing lights and has grown to two million lights, drawing visitors from far and wide. “It’s logistically a nightmare, but the staff adapt,” Sean says. “It’s a pretty rewarding event when you see kids enjoying it so much.” That includes his own children – sons Liam (12) and Max (7) and daughter Phoebe (10) – who hound him each year to see the lights. Sean and his wife, Debbie, live on a few hectares at Nulkaba, where their garden is not a showpiece, but nor is it a mess. “I’m not like a mechanic who drives an old bomb, or a painter who doesn’t paint his own house.” A practical garden with

WANT MORE?

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

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SPA GAZING

WHETHER YOU LIKE YOUR BODY SCRUBBED WITH CHAMPAGNE SORBET, MASSAGED WITH WATER JETS OR RUBBED WITH HOT STONES, THERE’S A SPA THAT CAN DO IT FOR YOU.

PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

WORDS: MELINDA KELLY

I DON’T KNOW about you, but I find all the ‘ing’ things so draining: shopping, washing, cleaning, cooking, gardening, mowing. The list is endless. We’re all ridiculously busy and our work/life balance seems to weigh heavily on the work side all too often, which is why it’s important to take time out just for ourselves. There’s little doubt that everyone deserves a little TLC, so when the call came asking if I’d like to do this story, I hesitated

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just long enough to breathe a silent but thankful sigh of relief. While the Hunter Valley is renowned for its award-winning wines and amazing restaurants, it’s also home to a number of world-class health and day spas, including: the Golden Door Health Retreat & Spa, Elysia; The Spa at Château Élan; Ubika Spa Hunter Valley; and Spa Anise. Along with the expected manicures, pedicures, facials, beauty treatments

and massage therapies, each has its own unique signature treatments that ensure your day spa experience leaves you relaxed, restored and rejuvenated. All have stunning treatment and therapy rooms that are available for inhouse guests and day visitors. So no matter whether you’re visiting for the day or you live in the area, there’s the perfect venue for some quality time out. Trust me, your body, mind and soul will thank you for it.

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EXPLORE RELAXATION

UNWIND WITH A SWEDISH MASSAGE SIDE BY SIDE IN THE SPA AT CHÂTEAU ÉLAN.

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EXPLORE RELAXATION

THE SPA AT CHÂTEAU ÉLAN Located at Château Élan within The Vintage complex, the glamorous Spa at Château Élan has recently undergone a refurbishment and offers

Élan are hand-carved and exclusive). Multiple jets of warm water, at varying frequencies, massage you from head

including arthritis and muscle spasm, and improves local blood circulation. For the ultimate restorative body experience, you can’t beat the heavenly Vichy shower treatment, which is just sublime. Never heard of it? Well, a Vichy treatment uses a multi-nozzle shower that runs parallel to a cushioned treatment bed (the Vichy beds at Château

to toe. Just imagine you’re taking a relaxing and massaging hot shower while lying down! At Château Élan it’s also accompanied by a full-body thermal mineral scrub or a nourishing sea mud wrap, leaving your skin super-soft and smooth. After experiencing one you’ll never want to shower standing up again. See page 126 or chateauelan.com.au

PHOTO: CHRIS ELFES

leading treatments, including I Beauty by Thalgo and HEALite Therapy. Only available at Château Élan, HEALite therapy uses incident light to photomodulate cellular function. When used in conjunction with Thalgo products, it offers the ultimate in

facial treatments. It also relieves pain and stiffness in muscles and joints, is beneficial for a range of ailments,

UBIKA SPA HUNTER VALLEY Formerly the Tea Tree Spa, Ubika Spa Hunter Valley is located at the Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley. Meaning ‘to grow’ in ancient Indian Sanskrit, Ubika Spa’s philosophy is to plant the seed (and help nurture it) for your physical, emotional and spiritual growth. The Ubika Spa menu features a diverse selection of therapies that help regenerate and restore – whether it’s an energising body scrub, muscle-melting massage or results-oriented facial. After having a soothing cup of herbal tea I settled in for a much-needed pedicure, followed by an amazing 80-minute Ubika Signature Experience Facial. Drawing on the properties of antioxidants and vitamin-rich organic ingredients, it assists in the skin’s oxygen intake and stimulates cellular repair and rejuvenation, not to mention makes you feel like a million dollars. My toes were ready to face the summer and my skin felt and looked absolutely amazing. See page 126 or ubikaspa.com

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recharge your

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CALL TODAY 1800 212 011 AND ASK ABOUT OUR SPECIAL OFFERS VISIT GOLDENDOOR.COM.AU

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EXPLORE RELAXATION

GOLDEN DOOR HEALTH RETREAT & SPA, ELYSIA Seriously stylish, Elysia sits high on a hill overlooking sprawling vineyards and glorious mountain ranges. The 360-degree views alone are enough to melt away the stresses of everyday life. It’s the only purpose-built destination health retreat in Australia and, aside from offering the famed Golden Door Health Retreat programs, it’s home to a

sophisticated and truly luxurious day spa. Spa Elysia offers a treatment unlike any other with its purpose-built Watsu

flowing movements. Likened to yoga in water, Watsu assists with acute and chronic pain, postural imbalances and

pool suite. Watsu is an aquatic bodywork treatment that takes place in a private, heated pool. It encourages relaxation by combining the therapeutic benefits of shiatsu with warm water. Your body is supported in water, relaxing the spine and helping you achieve a deep sense of relaxation through gentle gliding and

stress-related disorders. I opted for the 50-minute Relaxing Hot Stone Therapy, a blissful massage where the penetrating heat of the stones induces relaxation and stress reduction and assists detoxification of the body. Highly recommended. See page 126 or goldendoor.com.au/spa-elysia

SPA ANISE Part of the Spicers Vineyards Estate and with just two beautiful treatment rooms, Spa Anise is the epitome of privacy and serenity, with birds softly singing in the trees and gardens providing the soundtrack. Spa therapist Bree wasn’t exaggerating when she said the two-hour Vineyards Signature Vino Spa Ritual is amazing. It begins with a Champagne sorbet full-body exfoliation and, once it’s removed, your body is lathered in a replenishing hydration treatment infused with molten cacao and pure vanilla bean. Then comes the Waterlilly’s Vino Therapy Performance Spa; an anti-ageing facial treatment enriched with pure Shiraz, pomegranate, fig and organic chocolate, it’s completed with a performance contour masque infused with pure vitamin C and freezedried Shiraz. Do it – you’ll smell and feel delicious! See page 126 or spicersretreats.com

MAGICAL MASSAGES For restorative relaxation or healing remedial massages we also suggest these specialist massage therapists: • Heavenly Hunter heavenlyhunter.com.au • Thai Nature Massage thainaturemassage.com.au • Bhutra Thai Massage cessnock.thaimassagespa.com.au

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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...

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A SECRET CALLED…

SINGLETON STAY A LITTLE LONGER AND TAKE A TRIP TO A QUINTESSENTIAL COUNTRY TOWN SURROUNDED BY A PATCHWORK OF PASTURELANDS AND VINEYARDS, WITH LOTS OF HIDDEN GEMS TO EXPLORE. WORDS: DANIEL HONAN PHOTOS: NICK LAWRENCE

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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“Lake St Clair is ideal for daytrippers and people who want to enjoy the peace and quiet of the Hunter Valley countryside.”

LOCATED ON THE banks of the Hunter River, Singleton is a gorgeous country town steeped in rich history, scenic beauty and modern enterprise. The fertile area was discovered by John Howe and Benjamin Singleton in 1820 and in the following years the pioneering town was established. Today, the CBD is bustling with great cafes, pubs, restaurants and boutique and specialty shops, yet a sense of history and heritage is never far away. Stroll along the Heritage Walk route, have a picnic by the river, go camping and fishing at Lake St Clair or find solace at the Sisters of Mercy Convent. There are lots of things to see and do and plenty of places to relax and stay the night, but it’s also a great daytrip option.

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SEE

The Singleton Infantry Museum on Range Road is a place for remembrance and reflection and a chance for those of any age to learn about Australia’s involvement in war through the ages. On a Heritage Walk around the town, visit some of Singleton’s most beautiful buildings and homes, including the colonial-style timber Wade Cottage and the Abbey Green Homestead, both built around 1860. You can pick up a Heritage Walk brochure from the Singleton Visitor Information & Enterprise Centre and stroll at your own pace. Singleton Museum is another great place to relive the town’s great pioneering spirit.

The Sacred Spaces at the Sisters of Mercy Convent are among Singleton’s oldest and most beautiful buildings (both inside and out). The convent hosts daily tours of the immaculate gardens and stunning chapel. Call ahead to book. No bookings needed to check out another notable sight: the Singleton Sundial in Rose Point Park, reputed to be one of the world’s largest sundials. A quick drive north of Singleton, at the foot of Mount Royal Range, is Lake St Clair, where you can swim, sail, water ski, camp and fish, all in the one spot. It’s ideal for daytrippers with their picnic baskets and for people who just want to enjoy the peace and quiet of the Hunter Valley countryside.

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EXPLORE SINGLETON

STAY

There are plenty of options to enable you to comfortably stay the night in Singleton and its surrounds. If you wish to move at your own pace, consider the self-contained apartment accommodation at Quest Singleton, just 10 minutes’ walk from Singleton’s CBD. Out-of-town options include The Wattle Lodge, on the way to historical Gresford and Barrington Tops. Here you can stay and sleep in quiet seclusion in a self-contained ecofriendly lodge, where you can look out towards the rolling hills by day and up at the bright stars at night.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: VINTAGE GOODS AT WORN OUT WARES; THE SISTERS OF MERCY CONVENT; THE INFANTRY MUSEUM; QUENCH YOUR THIRST AT THE GRAINERY.

Shopping on Singleton’s John Street is now even more enjoyable thanks to recent improvements and upgrades. Take a leisurely stroll up and down, popping into specialty shops such as Redbournberry Clothing Co., and Poppy’s for hampers and homewares. Elsewhere in town you’ll find lots of antique and vintage stores, such as Worn Out Wares, which is filled with plenty of gorgeous gift ideas and old collectables. Take time for tea at Kath’s Cottage, which is considered to be one of the oldest existing homes in Singleton. If you time it right, you’ll find Singleton buzzing with lots of art, food and entertainment, including The Gum Ball music and arts festival in April and the Singleton Festival, a biennial event held in July. The Farmers Markets are held at Singleton Showground on the fourth Saturday of each month and are brimming with fresh local produce.

EAT

With so much to see and do in Singleton, you should know of a few places to relax and recharge during your visit here. Head to Worn Out Wares for a cup of refreshing tea or great coffee, or choose from a selection of seasonal food, including freshly made scones, cakes, salads and sandwiches. Or swing into Munkeeskins Cafe for excellent coffee and a cosy space to eat breakfast and/or lunch. With its funky decor, friendly staff and super-tasty food, it’s the place where the locals go to get their daily caffeine fix. Later, head over to The Grainery, a gastropub located just behind John Street, which features some of Singleton’s best craft beer selections as well as a modern menu of delicious food, cocktails and, of course, great Hunter Valley wines. For more info go to visitsingleton.com WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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HUNTER VALLEY

WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL

EXPLORE FESTIVAL

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ENJOY SPECIAL TREATS AND ABUNDANT FEASTS WITH SHOW-STOPPING WINES AND GOOD OLD-FASHIONED COUNTRY HOSPITALITY. HUNTER VALLEY Wine & Food Festival is back and it’s bigger than ever, spanning two months to include some of our favourite returning events and some great new additions. The festival showcases the region’s unforgettable wine and food culture with a range of epicurean events and activities during May and June, so you’re sure to find something to suit your palate.

You can get up close and personal with winemakers at a masterclass, vertical tasting or vineyard tour, unearth hidden gems on the wine and food trail, take part in hands-on cooking classes or enjoy a Chef’s Plate Lunch, which offers foodies the chance to enjoy a set-price lunch with a glass of wine at some of the region’s top restaurants. Some of the must-do events include:

SAT MAY 7 UPPER HUNTER WINE & FOOD AFFAIR

SAT JUNE 4 WHISPERING BROOK’S OLIVE LONG TABLE LUNCHEON

Enjoy free live bands, entertainment for the children, street theatre, food and Upper Hunter wines at Denman’s annual street party.

The annual Olive Long Table Luncheon starts off with a walking tour of the olive groves and vineyard, followed by a fourcourse olive-inspired lunch by a leading local chef with matching Whispering Brook wines, live music and guest speaker.

upperhunterwineandfoodaffair.com.au

SAT MAY 14–SUN MAY 15 LOVEDALE LONG LUNCH Seven wineries team up with local Hunter Valley restaurants for a weekend of fine wine, gourmet food and excellent live entertainment. lovedalelonglunch.com.au

SAT MAY 28 GRAVEYARD LUNCH Join this event held annually in the barrel room at Brokenwood Wines to celebrate the release of this iconic Australian Shiraz. brokenwood.com.au

SAT JUNE 4 HUNTER VALLEY WINE FESTIVAL In its fourth consecutive year, this one-day festival brings more than 40 Hunter Valley wineries and producers together in the one place at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley. huntervalleywinefestival.com

whispering-brook.com

MON JUNE 6 HUNTER CULINARY ASSOCIATION’S FOOD FIGHT See some of the Hunter Valley’s top chefs battle it out in the seventh annual Food Fight at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley. Enjoy six dishes from six highly acclaimed chefs, matched with wines from premium Hunter Valley wineries. You eat the dishes, judge and vote for the winning team. hunterculinary.com.au

SAT JUNE 18 RIDGEVIEW OCEAN TO PADDOCK DEGUSTATION Embark on a gastronomic journey up the Valley from the ocean to the paddock with this seven-course degustation matched with RidgeView wines, from 6.30pm. $125pp, includes paired wines. Bookings essential on 02 6574 7332. ridgeview.com.au

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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: TUCK INTO ESTATE-GROWN LAMB AND RED WINE AT MARGAN RESTAURANT; ENJOY THE BLAZING BONFIRE AT GLANDORE WINES; LINGER AT WHISPERING BROOK’S OLIVE LONG TABLE LUNCHEON; SEE WOODCHOPPING AT THE UPPER HUNTER WINE & FOOD AFFAIR.

SAT JUNE 18 CORK & FORK CUP @ THE VINTAGE

EVERY FRI–SUN IN JUNE THE ORIGINAL MARGAN 100 METRE MEAL

Enjoy a leisurely game of golf with on-course gourmet snacks and wine at every tee. Get a hole in one and you could take out the grand prize. Bookings essential. thevintage.com.au

Enjoy estate-grown Suffolk lamb with garden vegetables and a glass of White Label Barbera. Everything is grown on site within 100 metres of the restaurant.

SAT JUNE 25 BURNING OF THE BARREL Sip Hunter Valley Shiraz and snack on tasty treats while you warm up beside the blazing bonfire at Glandore Estate. glandorewines.com.au

margan.com.au

Come along, join the locals and immerse yourself in the Hunter Valley way of life. With accommodation and experience packages for every budget, it’s time to treat yourself to a country getaway like no other. For the full program visit winecountry.com.au

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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A secluded bushland venue & campground. Kirkton Rd, Lower Belford, Hunter Valley.

Available for small & large private functions, weddings, events & seasonal camping. THE HOME OF THESE GREAT EVENTS April

July

September

Dashville.com.au

All Year

/DashvilleHunterValley

Australia

The latest Rimo Schumacher Karts

GREAT FAMILY FUN THRILLING DAYS OUT From 3 year olds and up with ALL NEW Double Karts, Junior Karts and Senior Karts Located at 202 Neath Rd, Kearsley NSW

www.gokartsgo.com.au/hunter-valley

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

MARCH KURRI KURRI NOSTALGIA FESTIVAL

INSIDE ART 2016

kurrikurrinostalgiafestival

FRI MAR 25–MON 28, SAT APR 2– SUN 3, SAT APR 9–SUN 10: Annual exhibition of Inside Art at the Old Fireshed Gallery at Wollombi Cultural Centre features artworks by inmates of Cessnock Correctional Centre.

.com.au

wollombi.org

FRI 18–SUN 20: A fantastic line-up of rock ’n’ roll bands, rockabilly dancing, classic cars, hot rods, fashion and market stalls.

EASTER EXTRAVAGANZA @ SEBEL KIRKTON PARK FRI 25: The popular Good Friday Seafood Feast is back. Also enjoy fun activities for the kids all weekend, including

EASTER LONG WEEKEND FRI 25–MON 28: 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 lots of coloured eggs in the Giant Easter Egg Hunt. Book tickets online at hvg.com.au

AROUND HERMITAGE WINE, FOOD & FILM FESTIVAL

egg-and-spoon races, chicken and pig feedings daily at noon, and an Easter egg hunt in the Rose Garden on Easter Sunday. Bookings essential on 02 4998

THU MAR 31–SUN APR 10: To celebrate 50 years since the revival of both the Australian wine and Australian film industries, wineries, restaurants, cellar doors and accommodation houses in the Hermitage Road district will host a wine, food and film exhibition, and matching food and wine with the films at indoor and outdoor venues. More info at

7680. sebelhuntervalley.com.au

aroundhermitage.com.au

HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS WEDDING FAIR SUN 20: At this free wedding fair couples can discuss options with HVG’s dedicated wedding team, see ceremony and reception options and talk to more than 40 hand-selected suppliers, including celebrants, cake suppliers, florists, photographers and others. Register online at hvg.com.au

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EXPLORE CALENDAR

APRIL KURRI COAL FACE PEDAL FRI 1–SUN 3: This three-day event supports the Rescue Helicopter Service and includes the Mountain Bike Sunset Ride on Friday, the Road Ride Coal Face Teams Road Challenge on Saturday and the Coal Face Pedal Mountain Bike Rides on Sunday. rescuehelicopter.com.au

A LITTLE BIT OF ITALY IN BROKE FRI 8–SUN 10: A weekend program of Italian-inspired food, wines, festivities and fun hosted throughout Broke Fordwich. Organise family and friends, book your accommodation and shuttle and join us as we bring A Little Bit of Italy to Broke.

JIMMY BARNES IN CONCERT @ HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS SAT 16: For the first time ever the Red Hot Summer Tour is coming to the Hunter Valley! See Jimmy Barnes, Noiseworks, The Angels and others belt out hit after hit at Hunter Valley Gardens.

LOVE IN THE VINES SUN 17: Enjoy a free glass of sparkling, canapes and a goodie bag at this lovefest at Lindeman’s. Includes fashion parades, free pamper pavilion and a huge array of wedding professionals to help create your dream wedding. loveinthevines.com.au

A DAY ON THE GREEN – CHRIS ISAAK SAT 9: Head to Bimbadgen Estate to see Chris Isaak, with special guests James Reyne, Richard Clapton and Thirsty Merc.

TUFF TRUCK CHALLENGE FRI 15–SUN 17: The Tough Dog Tuff Truck Challenge is a three-day 4WD competition event held near Broke. There’s onsite camping, Saturday

ticketmaster.com.au

CESSNOCK STOMP FESTIVAL SUN 17: This new 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

bimbadgen.com.au

italyinbroke.com.au

JAZZ IN THE GROVE SAT 9: Relax in the majestic poplar grove at Stonehurst Cedar Creek from 11am–4pm. Enjoy live picnic jazz, award-winning Stonehurst wines, scrumptious food and good company. Phone 02 4998 1576. stonehurst.com.au

THE MAILRUN CHARITY BIKE RIDE

SAT 9–SUN 10: Steamfest in Maitland celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2016 with displays of steam-powered locomotives and planning underway to have a four-train great race and the opening of the railway line to

SUN 10: Join hundreds of other cyclists in this fun cycling event that starts and finishes in Singleton. There’s a challenging 100km course, intermediate 65km course and easier 40km and 20km. All courses take riders through the picturesque agricultural landscape of the fertile Hunter Valley along lightly trafficked, tarred roads.

Cessnock. steamfest.com.au

themailrun.org

HUNTER VALLEY STEAMFEST

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fireworks and kids activities, including a mini Tuff Truck remote-control race and face painting. tufftruck.com.au

RIDGEVIEW AUTUMN IN SEASON CELEBRATION SAT 16: Enjoy a four-course dinner with canapes and a glass of RidgeView bubbles from 6.30pm. $65pp. Bookings on 02 6574 7332. ridgeview.com.au

THE GUM BALL MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL FRI 22–SUN 24: After taking a year off in 2015, The Gum Ball event is back. This independent boutique music and arts festival is held at a secluded bushland venue owned by the Johnston family. Enjoy live music performances by a great line-up of Australian and international artists. dashville.com.au

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Put a fresh perspective on your next event and head to the Hunter Valley

Call us to plan your next conference, special event or team building activity Hunter Valley • Newcastle • Port Stephens • Central Coast 222 High Street Maitland NSW 2320 • P 4933 5400 • info@huntervalleyevents.com.au • www.huntervalleyevents.com.au

SCAN HERE FOR MORE INFO

the hook shot. David has always made wines that stand out. Wines that hit all the right spots. Wines that knock your socks off. Wines that you won’t forget. Get hooked up now, visit our cellar or visit us online at davidhookwines.com.au

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EXPLORE CALENDAR

MAY HUNTER VALLEY WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL SUN MAY 1–THURS JUNE 30: This much-anticipated event showcases the region’s diverse wine and food culture over a two-month period with a series of epicurean activities throughout the Valley. From cooking classes and vineyard tours to Chef’s Plate Lunches, you meet the makers and enjoy the region’s best wine and food. For details see page 68 or winecountry.com.au

ROCK ’N’ BLUES REVIVAL SAT 7: Celebrate the Rock ’n’ Blues Revival in the poplar grove at Stonehurst Cedar Creek. From 11am–4pm enjoy delicious food and award-winning Stonehurst wines as you dance to rockin’ live music. Phone 02 4998

SNOW TIME @ HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS SAT JUN 25–SUN JUL 17: Experience an icy wonderland over three weeks, including the winter school holidays. Includes a giant ice-skating rink, 25-metre ice toboggan, a man-made Snow Play Zone, games, entertainment, warm beverages and hearty food. hvg.com.au

1576. stonehurst.com.au

UPPER HUNTER WINE & FOOD AFFAIR SAT 7: Part of the Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival. For details see page 68.

PORT TO PORT THU 26–SUN 29: A scenic four-day mountain bike race from Port Stephens, through the Hunter Valley to Lake Macquarie and Newcastle. On the second day riders will make their start at Lindeman’s Winery before finishing at Briar Ridge Winery. porttoportmtb.com

LOVEDALE LONG LUNCH SAT 14–SUN 15: Part of the Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival. For details see page 68.

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JUNE HUNTER VALLEY WINE FESTIVAL @ CROWNE PLAZA HUNTER VALLEY SAT 4: Part of the Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival. For details see page 68.

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL ROADSHOW THU 9: Join a cast of the finest local and international comedy talent as the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow takes over Australia, one town at a time! cessnockperformingartscentre. com.au

RIDGEVIEW OCEAN TO PADDOCK DEGUSTATION DINNER SAT 18: Part of the Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival. For details see page 68.

CORK & FORK CUP @ THE VINTAGE SAT 18: Part of the Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival. For details see page 68.

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vertical ad decemeber.indd 2

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EXPLORE CALENDAR JULY

AUGUST

PIGSTY IN JULY

CLEAR IMAGE HUNTER VALLEY WINE SHOW CELEBRATIONS LUNCH

SAT 2: A one-day, adults-only music festival in bushland with boutique beverages and food. dashville.com.au

WINTER ROSE PRUNING @ HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS MON 18–SUN 31: With demonstrations and talks throughout the day, you can be sure you’re caring for your roses correctly. Complimentary cutting on departure. hvg.com.au

FRI 19: One of the leading regional wine shows in Australia with winners announced at the Celebrations Luncheon and gold medal-winning wines served with lunch. winecountry.com.au

WOLLOMBI COUNTRY FAIR SAT 27–SUN 28: Enjoy a fun-filled weekend in historic Wollombi. The Country Fair is all about celebrating what makes Wollombi unique, with stalls from local vineyards, a farmers market, a scarecrow competition, lantern parade and much more. wollombicountryfair.com.au

POOCH PICNIC

XMAS IN JULY @ RIDGEVIEW SAT 23: Enjoy a festive fourcourse dinner 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

SUN 28: A dog-friendly picnic day at Pepper Tree Wines that raises funds for an animal charity. The headline act is The Wonder Dogs training demonstrations, but there are lots of treats for pooches, and picnic hampers and wine by the glass for owners. No BYO alcohol. Gold coin entry fee. Phone 02 4909 7100. peppertreewines.com.au

DESSERT EXPERIENCE @ ESCA BIMBADGEN

REGULAR EVENTS HIGH TEA @ THE SEBEL KIRKTON PARK DAILY: Take tea from noon to 4pm; $35pp for sweet and savoury delights, including a glass of sparkling wine. Bookings on 02 4998 7680.

DESSERT EXPERIENCE @ ESCA BIMBADGEN DAILY: Try each of Esca’s seasonal desserts, accompanied by three Bimbadgen dessert wines from 3pm. $35pp. Bookings on 02 4998 4666.

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). sebelhuntervalley.com.au

SUNDAY TASTES WEEKLY: Dine at Twine

Restaurant on Sunday and enjoy a house-made mezze plate and then a Tastes From Around the World main (cuisine changes monthly), followed by dessert. From 5.30pm. $49pp. Bookings on 02 4998 7449.

MUSIC BY THE VINES WEEKLY: Head to Restaurant Botanica on Sundays and enjoy a three-hour music session, a leisurely lunch or a glass of wine and a snack beside the vines. Bookings on 02 6574 7229.

NAN’S SUPER INDULGENT AFTERNOON TEA WEEKLY: Tuck into sausage and

HUNTER VALLEY WINERY RUNNING FESTIVAL SUN 24: A unique running festival that takes participants through the grapevines, this event includes a full marathon and a 10km fun run. wineryrun.com

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veggie rolls, sandwiches, three mini-desserts, Nan’s freshly made scones and homemade jams at Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen from Thursday to Monday from 11.30am–5pm. Cost $35pp. Bookings on 02 4998 7333.

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 & ANTIPASTO TASTING WEEKENDS: Taste three wines

and enjoy an antipasto plate at Pepper Tree Wines. $20pp. Bookings on 02 4909 7100.

HIGH TEA @ GEMELLI ESTATE MONTHLY: Enjoy Sunday high tea in the garden or gallery with sweet and savoury treats, accompanied by a glass of wine on March 20, April 3, May 29 and June 19. $35pp. Bookings on 02 4998 7910.

ART AFTER HOURS MONTHLY: On the last Thursday of each month, Cessnock Regional Art Gallery throws open its doors with Art After Hours (running from 5–8pm), offering evening access to its latest exhibitions, along with music and local wines. Phone 02 4991 6619. crag.net.au

BROKE VILLAGE MARKET MONTHLY: Small community

market held on the first Sunday each month in the park opposite Broke Village Store. brokefordwich.com.au

HANDMADE IN THE HUNTER MARKETS FORTNIGHTLY: At Kevin Sobels Wines on the second and fourth Saturday of each month. handmadehuntermarkets. com.au

WOLLOMBI MARKETS HOLIDAY MONDAYS: Held on the holiday Monday of each long weekend (Easter Monday March 28 and Queen’s birthday June 8). wollombimarkets.com

PARKRUN SINGLETON WEEKLY: A free 5km run/walk

each Saturday – it’s you against the clock. Everyone is welcome

WANT MORE?

FOR MORE EVENT INFO GO TO WINECOUNTRY. COM.AU

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ESTABLISHED 1978

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WINE&FOOD FESTIVAL May - June 2016

Nanna Kerr’s Tasting Menu

First Creek Wines Chardonnay - Learn to Love it Again

Brokenwood’s The Grazing Blaze

The Vintage Cork & Fork Cup Mercure’s Hors D’oeuvres Hours De Iuliis Semillon / Shiraz & Cheese Matching

Tyrrell’s Winemaker’s Table Lovedale Long Lunch

The Art of Gnocchi at Il Cacciatore

Original Margan 100 Metre Meal

Bimbadgen Winemakers’ Lunch

Hunter Resort by the Fireside Winemakers’ Dinners

Whispering Brook Olive Long Table Luncheon

Hungerford Hill’s Epic Experience

Hunter Valley Wine Festival Glandore Estate Burning of the Barrel

Twine Restaurant Trust the Chef

Lovedale Arts Festival Cheese Lovers’ Festival at The Sebel Kirkton Park

Taste & Play Around Hermitage RidgeView Ocean to Paddock

Cockfighter’s Ghost Magnificent Magnum Dinner

Taste of Wollombi

BLENDED The Great Hunter Valley Shiraz Blend Showdown

Discover more events during May and June at

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O F F I C I A L

G U I D E

age

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

er end

+ pull-out touring map WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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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.

� 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).

� 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.

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

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

� 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 113).

� 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.

� FLIGHTS OF FANCY

Greet the morning with a sunrise hot air balloon flight, then see the sights in your own private helicopter (see pages 113 and 121 for more aerial activities).

� 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.

� ARTISAN LANDSCAPES

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

�� 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 71–76 for What’s On).

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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

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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 with 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.

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Australian Family Owned Since 1858

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Cellar doors.

✓

02 6579 1314

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Stomp! Wines

1273 Milbrodale Rd, Broke

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

✓

Tellace Wines

356 Tuckers Ln, North Rothbury

02 4938 7173

✓

Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard

750 DeBeyers Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 1866

✓

Ballabourneen Wine Co.

515 McDonald’s Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6505

✓

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

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

Hermitage Road Cellars & Winery

Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7777

✓

Hope Estate

2213 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4993 3555

✓

Hungerford Hill Wines

2450 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7666

✓

James Estate

1210 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7992

✓

Kelman Vineyard

2 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin

02 4991 5456

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

KIDS’ PLAYGROUND

✓

130 Adams Peak Rd, Broke

FUNCTIONS

02 6579 1372

Mount Broke Wines

FREE WIFI

02 6579 1322

1238 Milbrodale Rd, Broke

BBQ

LOCAL PRODUCE

712 Wollombi Rd, Broke

Margan Winery & Restaurant

ART GALLERY

RESTAURANT/CAFE

Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard

ACCOMMODATION

PHONE

NAME

TOURS

ADDRESS

GROUP WINE TASTINGS

CONFERENCE FACILITIES

SAMPLE THE REGION'S AWARD-WINNING WINES.

BROKE FORDWICH � MILBRODALE

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LOVEDALE � NORTH ROTHBURY

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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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FUNCTIONS

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CONFERENCE FACILITIES

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PHONE

RESTAURANT/CAFE

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NAME

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SAMPLE THE REGION'S AWARD-WINNING WINES.

NULKABA, POKOLBIN � ROTHBURY CONTINUED Marsh Estate

95 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7587

McGuigan Wines

447 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7402

McLeish Estate

462 DeBeyers Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7754

✓

Meerea Park

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

02 4998 7474

✓

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

RidgeView Wines Rothvale Winery

✓ ✓

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02 4998 7881

✓

273 Sweetwater Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7332

✓

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

@ Small Winemakers Centre, 426 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7668

✓

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

✓

Vinden Estate Wines

138 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7410

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Wombat Crossing Vineyard

530 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7357

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Wynwood Estate

310 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7885

Briar Ridge Vineyard

593 Mount View Rd, Mount View

02 4990 3670

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

James Estate

951 Bylong Valley Way, Baerami

02 6547 5168

✓

Two Rivers Wines

2 Yarrawa Rd, Denman

02 6547 2556

✓

Noyce Brothers Wine

2884 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi

02 4998 3483

✓

Stonehurst Wines

1840 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi

02 4998 1576

Wollombi Wines

Wollombi Rd, Wollombi

02 4998 3427

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TOUR

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HUNTER VALLEY LEGENDS ANNOUNCED The Hunter Valley’s night of nights, the Hunter Valley Legends Awards, is a black-tie celebration at which the outstanding achievements of those who have made major contributions to and have excelled within the Hunter Valley wine and tourism industries are recognised. At the 2015 Awards, the newest Hunter Valley Wine Industry Legend was inducted and winners in five categories were announced. › Michael De Iuliis from De Iuliis 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. › Tyrrell’s Wines was the proud recipient of the Cellar Door of the Year Award, sponsored by CBA Local Business Banking, which recognises all-round excellence at the cellar door. › The Rising Star of the Year Award, sponsored by Riedel, is usually awarded to someone who has made an extraordinary contribution to the region’s wine and tourism industries over the preceding 12 months. In 2015, for the first time, there were joint winners in this category: Troy and Megan Rhoades-Brown, owners of Muse Restaurant & Muse Kitchen; and Gwyn Olsen, winemaker at Briar Ridge. › The Viticulturist of the Year Award, sponsored by Laffort, recognises an outstanding viticulturist involved in the management of Hunter Valley vineyards, and this year’s recipient was Andrew Margan of Margan Family Wines. › Ken Bray was inducted into the Hunter Valley Hall of Fame as the 2015 Living Legend. Widely regarded as the Hunter Valley’s leading viticulturist, Ken has been responsible for tending to some of the region’s most cherished vineyards for almost 40 years. › And this year, the Hunter Valley Award for Excellence, acknowledging a person who has made an outstanding contribution to the Hunter Valley wine and tourism industries in the previous 12 months, went to Melissa Romeyn. 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 �� 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 “Whispering Brook is one of the best cellar doors in the area, with sweeping vistas and a stellar wine list,” wrote CNN Travel’s Thomas Woodgate. 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

�� MILBRODALE RD, BROKE

Leading winemaker Andrew Margan hand-crafts 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

�� LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

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

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

�� 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

GARTELMANN WINES

� LONDONS RD, LOVEDALE

�� WILDERNESS RD, LOVEDALE

�� LOVEDALE 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

Try estate-grown wines, including sparkling and liqueur wines, at this friendly family-owned cellar door. Plus, you can browse the adjoining art gallery filled with original works by a number of local artists. There is also a restaurant and accommodation onsite. Fri 1–5pm, Sat–Sun 10am–5pm

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

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

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

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

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CELLAR DOORS NORTH ROTHBURY • NULKABA • POKOLBIN

TELLACE WINES

ERNEST HILL WINES

AUDREY WILKINSON VINEYARD

�� TUCKERS LN, NORTH ROTHBURY

�� WINE COUNTRY DR, NULKABA

�� DEBEYERS RD, POKOLBIN

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)

BALLABOURNEEN WINE CO.

BIMBADGEN

BLUEBERRY HILL VINEYARD

515 MCDONALD’S RD POKOLBIN

�� MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

Experience Ballabourneen’s friendly approach to wine education and excellent range of Hunter Valley wines made by prize-winning winemaker Daniel (Buckets) Binet, including the only Gamay Noir in the region, a light-bodied Beaujolais-style red. Nominated a Dark Horse Winery to watch in James Halliday’s 2012 Australian Wine Companion. Daily 10am–5pm

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 WINES

CHATEAU FRANCOIS

��–�� MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

BROKE ROAD, POKOLBIN

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

Tellace Wines is a working vineyard with a cosy cellar door and three-bedroom cottage surrounded by bushland in a quiet country lane. With local boutique beer on tap and wine available by the glass or bottle, it’s an ideal spot to relax and enjoy a picnic. Fri–Sun 10.30am–5pm

T 02 4998 6505 E info@ballabourneen.com.au ballabourneen.com.au

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

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

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

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

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

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CELLAR DOORS POKOLBIN

COCKFIGHTER’S GHOST WINES

CONSTABLE ESTATE

DAVID HOOK WINES

CNR MCDONALDS � DEBEYERS RDS, POKOLBIN

�� GILLARDS RD, POKOLBIN

CNR EKERTS � BROKE RDS, POKOLBIN

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)

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

DE BORTOLI WINES

DE IULIIS WINES

DRAYTON'S FAMILY WINES

�� WINE COUNTRY DR, POKOLBIN

�� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

�� OAKEY CREEK RD, POKOLBIN

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

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

�� OAKEY CREEK RD, POKOLBIN

�� 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 4993 3600 E info@cockfightersghost.com.au cockfightersghost.com.au

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

T 02 4998 7887 E hunter@constablevineyards.com.au constablevineyards.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 4998 7121 E sales@davidhookwines.com.au davidhookwines.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

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CELLAR DOORS POKOLBIN

GEMELLI ESTATE

GLANDORE ESTATE WINES

�� PALMERS LN, POKOLBIN

�� 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

HERMITAGE ROAD CELLARS � WINERY

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

�� O'CONNORS RD, POKOLBIN

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

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

CNR HERMITAGE RD � MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

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

GUNDOG HUNTER CELLAR � GOURMET PANTRY �� 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

HOPE ESTATE �� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4993 3555 E info@hopestate.com.au hopestate.com.au

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)

Hope Estate is perfectly situated in the heart of Wine Country, set on 420 acres of rolling countryside and picturesque vineyards. The Estate boasts an inviting cellar door, craft brewery, Harvest Restaurant, the Great Cask Hall wedding and function venue, as well as concert amphitheatre seating 19,000 people. Daily 10am–5pm

HUNGERFORD HILL WINES

JAMES ESTATE

KELMAN VINEYARD

�� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

1210 HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

� 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

The lush grounds provide a scenic spot for a picnic lunch or a glass of wine. Taste wines from the extensive Estate and Reserve labels, as well as small-batch, cellar-door-only wines and museum releases. Group and private tastings can also be booked. Daily 10am–4.30pm (closed Xmas Day)

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

Hanging Tree cellar door is located in the heart of Pokolbin. It is one of the most picturesque properties in the Valley with rose gardens, a duck pond and an antique-filled cellar door, all teeming with character. Pop in and taste the award-winning wines. Fri–Sun 10am–5pm & public holidays, or by appointment

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

T 02 4998 7992 E info@jamesestatewines.com.au jamesestatewines.com.au

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

� HALLS RD, POKOLBIN

2416 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)

LAMBLOCH ESTATE

MARSH ESTATE

MCGUIGAN WINES

�� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

�� DEASYS RD, POKOLBIN

�� MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

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

Marsh Estate was planted more than 40 years ago on two of the most famous soil profiles in the Hunter Valley, qualifying for the Heritage Listing Old Vines. Everything is grown, handpicked, made, matured and bottled onsite, and the entire vineyard is non-irrigated. Daily 10am–4.30pm

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

MCLEISH ESTATE

MEEREA PARK

MISTLETOE WINERY

�� DEBEYERS RD, POKOLBIN

@ ROCHE ESTATE COMPLEX, PAVILION B, �� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

�� HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

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

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

T 02 4998 7754 E info@mcleishhunterwines.com.au mcleishhunterwines.com.au Over 29 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 2013 London International Wine Challenge. It’s an essential stop for anyone who enjoys exceptional wines. Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, Sat–Sun 10am–5pm

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T 02 4998 7587 E sales@marshestate.com.au marshestate.com.au

T 02 4998 7474 E info@meereapark.com.au meereapark.com.au Meerea Park was established in 1991 by Rhys and Garth Eather. It has a red 5-star rating by James Halliday – his highest winery rating – and is ranked in his Top 100 Australian wineries. It offers a broad portfolio of wines, specialising in individual vineyard Semillon and Shiraz. Daily 10am–5pm

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

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

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

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CELLAR DOORS POKOLBIN

MISTY GLEN WINES � COTTAGE

MOOREBANK VINEYARD ESTATE

MOUNT PLEASANT CELLAR DOOR

�� DEASYS RD, POKOLBIN

�� PALMERS LN, POKOLBIN

�� MARROWBONE RD, 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

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

OAKVALE WINES

PEPPER TREE WINES

PETER DRAYTON WINES

�� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

�� HALLS RD, POKOLBIN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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CELLAR DOORS POKOLBIN

PETERSON HOUSE

RIDGEVIEW WINES

ROTHVALE WINERY

CNR BROKE RD � WINE COUNTRY DR, POKOLBIN

�� SWEETWATER RD, POKOLBIN

�� DEASYS RD, POKOLBIN

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

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

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 WINES

SCARBOROUGH ON HERMITAGE

SCARBOROUGH WINE CO.

�� MARROWBONE RD, POKOLBIN

�� HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

�� GILLARDS RD, POKOLBIN

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

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

TEMPUS TWO CELLAR DOOR

THOMAS WINES

CNR BROKE � MCDONALDS RDS, POKOLBIN

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

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

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

T 02 6574 7332 E wines@ridgeview.com.au ridgeview.com.au

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

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

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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 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

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CELLAR DOORS POKOLBIN • ROTHBURY • MOUNT VIEW

TINKLERS �� 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

TINTILLA ESTATE WINES � OLIVES �� HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 6574 7093 E info@tintilla.com.au tintilla.com.au

TRAVERTINE WINES 78 OLD NORTH RD, POKOLBIN

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

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 WINES

TYRRELL’S WINES

VINDEN ESTATE WINES

�� DEBEYERS RD, POKOLBIN

�� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

�� GILLARDS RD, POKOLBIN

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)

Tyrrell’s family-owned and operated winery has been awarded more than 5000 trophies and medals. It was named 2010 Winery of the Year and has been rated a red 5-star winery for the eighth consecutive year by James Halliday. Visit this friendly cellar door and experience award-winning wines and hospitality. Mon–Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 10am–4pm

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

WYNWOOD ESTATE

MACQUARIEDALE ORGANIC WINES

BRIAR RIDGE VINEYARD

�� OAKEY CREEK RD, POKOLBIN

�� SWEETWATER RD, ROTHBURY

T 02 6574 7012 E sales@macquariedale.com.au macquariedale.com.au

�� MOUNT VIEW RD, MOUNT VIEW

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

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

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 onsite function centre is ideal for special occasions. Daily 10am–5pm

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

T 02 4998 7885 E cellar@wynwood.com.au wynwoodestate.com.au

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

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

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CELLAR DOORS MOUNT VIEW • UPPER HUNTER • WOLLOMBI

PETERSONS WINES

SAVANNAH ESTATE

TALLAVERA GROVE VINEYARD

�� MOUNT VIEW RD, MOUNT VIEW

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

�� MOUNT VIEW RD, MOUNT VIEW

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

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

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

JAMES ESTATE

TWO RIVERS WINES

NOYCE BROTHERS WINES

951 BYLONG VALLEY WAY, BAERAMI

� YARRAWA RD, DENMAN

�� WOLLOMBI RD, WOLLOMBI

More than just a winery, this unique site offers highly awarded wines, bike trails, camping facilities and 4km Ridge Walk, with outstanding views of the Wollemi and Goulburn River National Parks. Australia’s Best Cellar Doors 2013 Gourmet Traveller Wine Magazine – Star Cellar Door – Upper Hunter. Daily 10am–4.30pm (closed Xmas Day)

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

Noyce Brothers Wines is situated in Grays Inn, a beautiful two-storey Georgian sandstone building in the centre of historic Wollombi. The award-winning local wines can be savoured in the lovely cellar door and delightful garden, then enjoy a walk around the Village, seeing the various convict-built buildings. Thu–Mon 10.30am–4.30pm

STONEHURST WINES

WOLLOMBI WINES

�� 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, tucked away in the historic hamlet of Wollombi, and then explore the rest of the Wollombi Valley Wine Trail. 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. Daily 10am–5pm

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

T 02 6547 5168 E info@jamesestatewines.com.au jamesestatewines.com.au

DEEPLY FASCINATING WITH RICH OVERTONES OF ENJOYMENT AND A LONG, MEMORABLE FINISH. 96 HV006.indb 96

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

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

T 02 4998 3483 E sales@noycebros.com.au noycebros.com.au

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

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G R E AT W I N E S A R E C R E AT E D IN THE VINEYARD.

15 9 6 B RO K E ROA D , P O KO L B I N N S W 2 3 2 0 phone: 02 4998 7088 email: info@oakvalewines.com.au website: www.oakvalewines.com.au follow us : facebook.com/OakvaleWinery

Two locations in the heart of the Hunter Valley - MOUNT VIEW & POKOLBIN

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

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Restaurants & cafes. LICENSED

VEGETARIAN OPTIONS

SPECIAL DIETS

WINERY/CELLAR DOOR

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02 4990 9553

FRI–SUN

FREE WIFI

@ Tallavera Grove, 749 Mount View Rd, Mount View

SUN

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02 6579 1372

AL FRESCO DINING

1238 Milbrodale Rd, Broke

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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 in the Hunter Dessert Bar

319 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale

1300 958 850

FRI–SUN

Shakey Tables

@ Hunter Country Lodge, 1476 Wine Country Dr, North Rothbury

02 4938 1744

SAT–SUN

Tatler Tapas Cafe

@ Tatler Wines, 477 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 9139

SUN

THU–TUE

✓

The Lovedale

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

02 4991 0000

7 DAYS

✓

7 DAYS

✓

7 DAYS

✓

7 DAYS

✓

SAT–SUN

THU–MON 7 DAYS

✓

✓ ✓

✓

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102

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103

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NULKABA, POKOLBIN � ROTHBURY Amanda’s on the Edge

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

FRI–MON

02 4998 7900

SAT-SUN

Bistro Vinden

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

Bodega Restaurant & Bar

@ Cypress Lakes Resort, Cnr McDonalds & Thompsons Rds, Pokolbin

02 4993 1555

Brokenback Bar

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

02 4998 7288

Cafe Enzo

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

02 4998 7233

7 DAYS

✓

Corpiii Cafe

Shop 5, Hunter Valley Gardens Village, 2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

0433 975 283

7 DAYS

✓

Elements Restaurant & Bar

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

02 4998 2000

Esca Bimbadgen

@ Bimbadgen, 790 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 4666

Harrigan’s Irish Pub

2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 4300

Harvest Restaurant

@ Hope Estate, 2213 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4993 3599

7 DAYS

Hunters Quarter

576 De Beyers Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7776

WED–SUN

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 & Epoch Lounge Bar

@ 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

Nanna Kerr's Kitchen

@ Emma's Cottage Vineyard, 438 Wilderness Rd, Rothbury

02 4998 7333

Oishii

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

02 4998 7051

Old Brickworks Brasserie

@ Potters Hotel Brewery Resort, Wine Country Dr, Nulkaba

02 4991 7922

Restaurant Botanica

@ Spicers Vineyards Estate, 555 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7229

Restaurant Cuvée

@ Peterson House, Cnr Broke Rd & Wine Country Dr, Pokolbin

02 4998 7881

7 DAYS

✓

103

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✓

103

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✓

103

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✓

103

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✓

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103

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✓ ✓

7 DAYS

✓

7 DAYS

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✓

7 DAYS

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FRI–SAT

✓

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✓

7 DAYS

✓

7 DAYS

✓

02 4998 7899

WED–SUN

SAT

02 4998 6777

SAT–SUN

WED–SAT

7 DAYS

✓

✓ ✓ ✓

✓ ✓

✓

7 DAYS

✓

SAT–SUN

7 DAYS

✓

7 DAYS

✓

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

103

MAP1 H7

✓

104

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✓

104

MAP 1 J6

✓

104

MAP 1 L5

104

MAP 1 I7

104

MAP 1 F2

104

MAP 1 M7

✓

104

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✓

✓ ✓

✓

104

MAP1 G3

✓

104

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✓

106

MAP 1 G10

✓

105

MAP 1 J6

THU–MON THU–MON THU–MON ✓ ✓ ✓

7 DAYS

✓

SAT–SUN

7 DAYS

✓

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

103

MAP 1 M11

✓

105

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✓

105

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✓

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Restaurants & cafes. ✓

✓

Taste of the Country

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

02 4998 6605

7 DAYS

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

@ Tuscany Wine Estate Resort, 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

Australia Hotel

136 Wollombi Rd, Cessnock

02 4990 1256

7 DAYS

Ink Cafe & Takeaway

109 Vincent St, Cessnock

02 4990 4371

MON-SAT

✓

41–43 George St, Singleton

02 6572 1866

7 DAYS

✓

WINERY/CELLAR DOOR

FUNCTIONS

✓

PAGE

FREE WIFI

THU–SUN

TAKEAWAYS

BYO

THU–SUN

SPECIAL DIETS

AL FRESCO DINING

FRI–SUN

VEGETARIAN OPTIONS

ACCOMMODATION

02 6574 7332

PHONE

LICENSED

DINNER

@ RidgeView Wines, 273 Sweetwater Rd, Pokolbin

ADDRESS

KIDS’ MENU

LUNCH

RidgeView Restaurant & Cafe

NAME

HAMPERS

BREAKFAST

GET A TASTE FOR THE HUNTER VALLEY WAY OF LIFE.

MAP

✓

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NULKABA, POKOLBIN � ROTHBURY CONTINUED

✓

MON–SAT

MON-SAT

7 DAYS

SAT-SUN

7 DAYS

THU–SUN

7 DAYS

✓

7 DAYS

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✓

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✓

106

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✓

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✓

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✓

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✓

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✓

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105

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✓

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CESSNOCK ✓

✓

SINGLETON Worn Out Wares

WINERY/CELLAR DOOR

ACCOMMODATION

BYO

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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

100 HV006.indb 100

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.

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Fine dining in the heart of Pokolbin. Lunch 7 days, Dinner Friday & Saturday

2213 Broke Road Pokolbin NSW, 2320 - Upstairs at Hope Estate www.hopeestate.com.au/harvest - (02) 4993 3599 IL CACCIATORE Âź PAGE AD HVM 2016.ai 1 12/02/2016 1:31:12 PM

Sabor is Hunter Valley,s sweet spot, offering the largest selection of desserts paired with the regions wines, coffee & tea, at either of our two locations 4 10am- :30pm L ov on e -M

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Lovedale 319 Wilderness Road 1300 958 850 Pokolbin 2342 Broke Road 1300 958 939

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RESTAURANTS � CAFES BROKE • MOUNT VIEW • LOVEDALE

MARGAN WINERY � RESTAURANT

BISTRO MOLINES

EMERSON’S CAFE � RESTAURANT

�� MILBRODALE RD, BROKE

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

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

@ ADINA VINEYARD, �� LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

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

�� MAJORS LN, LOVEDALE

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

SABOR IN THE HUNTER DESSERT BAR – 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

Offering more than 50 desserts paired with local wines. Try the award-winning Portuguese mousse, handmade chocolates, individual decadent cakes, pastries and barista-made coffee for dine-in or takeaway. Also a large range of sweet gourmet products to choose from. Sat–Sun 10am–4.30pm

TATLER TAPAS CAFE

THE LOVEDALE

@ TATLER WINES, �� LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE T 02 4930 9139 E sales@tatlerwines.com

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

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

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T 1300 958 850 E enquiries@casadesabor.com.au saborinthehunter.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

tatlerwines.com

102

�� WILDERNESS RD, LOVEDALE

T 02 4991 0000 E redsalt.hunter@ihg.com crowneplazahuntervalley.com.au A place where scrumptious meals are made, where the drinks run cold and where conversations just flow, with live entertainment and more. Daily 8am–late, lunch daily from 11am

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RESTAURANTS � CAFES NORTH ROTHBURY • NULKABA • POKOLBIN

SHAKEY TABLES

OLD BRICKWORKS BRASSERIE

AMANDA’S ON THE EDGE

@ HUNTER COUNTRY LODGE, �� WINE COUNTRY DR, NORTH ROTHBURY T 02 4938 1744

@ POTTERS HOTEL BREWERY RESORT, WINE COUNTRY DR, NULKABA

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

Enjoy award-winning contemporary cuisine matched with fine wines in a colourful and creative dining space. Awarded 2009 Hunter Region Restaurant of the Year and Modern Australian Restaurant of the Year 2001–2009. Functions and private groups by arrangement. Onsite accommodation available. Lunch Sat–Sun 12–3pm, dinner daily 5–9pm

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 onsite at Hunter Beer Co. Phone reception re courtesy bus. Daily, breakfast 7.30–10am, lunch 12–3pm, dinner 6–9pm

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

BISTRO VINDEN

BODEGA RESTAURANT � BAR

BROKENBACK BAR

@ VINDEN ESTATE, �� GILLARDS RD, POKOLBIN

@ CYPRESS LAKES RESORT, CNR MCDONALDS � THOMPSONS RDS, POKOLBIN

@ TUSCANY WINE ESTATE RESORT, CNR HERMITAGE RD � MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 7288

Bodega is located on the grounds of Cypress Lakes Resort, overlooking the stunning lake and hinterland surrounds. Experience contemporary cuisine coupled with an extensive selection of local wines. Breakfast Mon–Fri 7–10am, Sat–Sun 7–10.30am, lunch daily 11am–5pm, dinner daily 5pm–late

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 12–9pm

CAFE ENZO

ELEMENTS RESTAURANT � BAR

ESCA BIMBADGEN

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

@ MERCURE RESORT HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS, �� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN T 02 4998 2000

@ BIMBADGEN, �� 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

Executive chef Jean Marc Pollet has created a menu driven by the food philosophy of the fusion of classic French cuisine with the best Australian produce. Ingredients are of the finest quality, including produce sourced from his garden. Lunch Sat–Sun 12–2.30pm, dinner daily 5.30–8.30pm

E paula@shakeytables.com.au shakeytables.com.au

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

enzohuntervalley.com.au

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

T 02 4993 1555 E cypresslakes@theoaksgroup.com.au oakshotelsresorts.com

E reservations@mercurehuntervalley.com.au mercurehuntervalley.com.au

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

E reservations@tuscanywineestate.com.au tuscanywineestate.com.au

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 Wed–Sat from 6pm

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RESTAURANTS � CAFES POKOLBIN

HARRIGAN’S IRISH PUB � ACCOMMODATION

HARVEST RESTAURANT

HUNTERS QUARTER

@ HOPE ESTATE, �� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

576 DE BEYERS RD, POKOLBIN

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

Hope Estate’s signature dining experience is located on the top floor with sweeping views of rolling vineyards and picturesque lakes. Executive chef Mert Tansu has created an innovative menu with a focus on fresh, seasonal produce that perfectly matches Hope Estate’s wines and craft beer. Lunch daily 12–2pm, dinner Fri–Sat 6–8pm

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

IL CACCIATORE RESTAURANT

IRONBARK HILL CAFE

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

@ PETER DRAYTON WINES, �� HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

LOCAVORE DINING & EPOCH LOUNGE BAR

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

Looking for a scenic spot for a leisurely light lunch? The coffee shop at Ironbark Hill is set within a picturesque vineyard with a relaxed atmosphere and a menu that includes delicious antipasto and cheese platters sourced from local suppliers, pastries with salads, sweet treats and organic coffee. Daily 10am-5pm

Farm. Forage. Graze. The Hunter Valley’s newest dining experience brings farmers and foodies together. Offering alfresco and fine dining, the menus are brimming with homegrown and local produce, and extensive wine and beer selections. Daily, breakfast 7.30–10am, lunch 11am–3pm, dinner 6–9pm

MUSE KITCHEN

MUSE RESTAURANT

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

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

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

�� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

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

E info@hermitagelodge.com.au ilcacciatore.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

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T 02 4993 3599 E harvest@hopeestate.com.au hopeestate.com.au

T 02 6574 7085 E cellardoor@peterdraytonwines.com.au peterdraytonwines.com.au

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

T 02 4998 7776 E info@hunterquarter.com huntersquarter.com

@ SEBEL KIRKTON PARK, �� OAKEY CREEK RD, POKOLBIN

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

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

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RESTAURANTS � CAFES POKOLBIN

OISHII

RESTAURANT BOTANICA

RESTAURANT CUVÉE

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

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

@ PETERSON HOUSE, CNR BROKE RD � WINE COUNTRY DR, POKOLBIN

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

Located within the atmospheric sandstone walls of Peterson House, Restaurant Cuvée is a popular stop for bubbles with breakfast or a leisurely lunch gazing over the vines. The à la carte menu uses fresh local produce, offering Mod Oz cuisine at its best. Daily, breakfast 8.30–11am, lunch 12–3pm

RIDGEVIEW RESTAURANT � CAFE

THE CELLAR RESTAURANT

THE MILL RESTAURANT

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

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

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

the-cellar-restaurant.com.au

@ TUSCANY WINE ESTATE RESORT, CNR HERMITAGE RD � MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

RidgeView’s Mediterranean and Middle Easterninspired cuisine uses fresh seasonal produce from the onsite 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

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

T 02 4998 7051 E info@oishii.com.au oishii.com.au 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 undercover terrace overlooking the vines and architecturally designed amphitheatre. Takeaway available. Daily, lunch 11.30am–3pm, dinner 5.30–9.30pm

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

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

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

FOOD FANATIC OR EDUCATED PALATE? THE VERANDAH RESTAURANT @ CALAIS ESTATE, �� PALMERS LN, POKOLBIN

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

TWO FAT BLOKES GOURMET KITCHEN @ DE IULIIS WINES, �� 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

Download the official Wine Country iPhone app and discover your Hunter Valley personality.

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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RESTAURANTS � CAFES ROTHBURY • CESSNOCK • SINGLETON

NANNA KERR'S KITCHEN

THE LEGENDS GRILL

AL-OI THAI RESTAURANT

@ EMMA'S COTTAGE VINEYARD, 438 WILDERNESS RD, ROTHBURY

@ THE VINTAGE GOLF CLUB, VINTAGE DR, ROTHBURY

�� VINCENT ST, CESSNOCK

T 02 4998 7333 E nan@nannakerrskitchen.com.au nannakerrskitchen.com.au Nanna Kerr’s is a ‘mostly organic’ restaurant delivering wholesome, affordable and homemade deliciousness. An extensive breakfast menu is followed by a huge selection of daily specials, platters and pies served until 9pm. The menu changes weekly and features the best-available local produce. Breakfast Thu–Mon 8–11.30am, lunch & dinner Thu–Mon 11.30am–9pm

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

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

T 02 4990 8666 Traditionally Thai meals are always 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 daily 5–10pm

AUSTRALIA HOTEL

INK CAFE � TAKEAWAY

WORN OUT WARES

136 WOLLOMBI RD, CESSNOCK

�� VINCENT ST, CESSNOCK

41–43 GEORGE ST, SINGLETON

Ink Cafe offers friendly service, great coffee, all-day breakfast, made-to-order focaccias, wraps, burgers, sandwiches and light meals. The homemade and gluten-free slices and cakes are delicious, and the specials menu changes weekly to complement the season and fresh produce available. Mon–Fri 7am–5pm, Sat 7am–2pm, Sunday pending Hunter Valley events

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

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 4990 4371

T 02 6572 1866 wornoutwares.com.au

HOW AN EXQUISITE VINEYARD LUNCH LED TO A FRESH TASTE FOR SUCCESS IN THE OFFICE.

hvbusinessevents.com.au

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E V E N T DINE

WINE

A R T GROW

SLEEP

SHAKEY TABLES RESTAURANT AT THE HUNTER COUNTRY LODGE

Dinner 7 nights • Lunch Saturday & Sunday www.shakeytables.com.au • 1476 Wine Country Drive North Rothbury •

4938 1744

emersons 49 2 Lov eda le Road, Lov eda le NS W 2325

emersonsrestaurant.com.au

0249 307 029 BREAKFAST SATURDAY & SUNDAY 8-11 LUNCH WEDNESDAY - SUNDAY 11-3 D I N N ER TH U RSDAY - SU N DAY 6-10 

You’re always welcome at Oishii • • • •

A favourite dining experience for locals and visitors Always fresh ... Always vibrant Open 7 days for lunch and dinner Takeaway available every day

Tempus Two Complex, Hunter Valley Corner of Broke & McDonalds Roads, Pokolbin P 02 4998 7051 W www.oishii.com.au

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A little birdie told me ...

.... it ’s magic!

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

HUNTER VALLEY SMELLY CHEESE SHOPS 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.

gourmet eeses gelato pizza products cheeses gelato pizza Providores of the finest local and imported gourmet foods. LEY SMELLY CHEESE SHOPS HUNTER VALLEY SMELLY CHEESE SHOPS Our cheese range includes international and hard-to-find

t foods. - the only ‘made on Aussie range. or sit and al wines or

daily, nd chips.

STOP! Noofneed to look any further. We stock all your local Australian cheeses. We are also the home of the • Providores the finest local and imported gourmet foods. favourite as well - Smelly’s own,Company Binnorie Hunter Valley Gelato Company, the onlyDairy, Italian • Home of cheeses the Hunter Valley Gelato -real the Hunter only Belle plus other favourites fromregion. the and the on globe. homemade gelato the Wecountry bake “real” Italian hand madeingelato inaround the Hunter regionFrench-style ‘made • A gourmands’ delight -wraps, youincluding have to see topizza believe it! Come on bread daily and offer gourmet burgers. site’ with over 200 flavours, our itvery ownand Aussie range. in, have a big snoop around. • Delicious products can be purchased to take home or sitto andeat Take our products home or stay in for a bite • Enjoywhilst a Merlo coffeewith withaaglass Adora chocolate. indulge in store ofmade one ourbeer. local wines or with a glass of hand local wineof or • Hampers, Wedding Fromage Cakes and Gelato Cakes also beers. Fully licensed can be ordered. Gives us a call. • Smelly’s Kitchen also has ‘French’ style bread baked daily, • Conveniently open 7 days Christmas Day). Hall(closed of Food gourmet pizzas, stuffed baguettes, wraps, burgers and chips.

Pavilion G, Tempus Two Complex,

STOP! No need to look any further. We stock all your local favourite cheeses as well - Smelly’s own, Binnorie Dairy, Hunter Belle plus other favourites from around the country and the globe. • A gourmands’ delight - you have to see it to believe it! Come on in, have a big snoop around. • Enjoy a Merlo coffee with a hand made Adora chocolate. • Hampers, Wedding Fromage Cakes and Gelato Cakes also can be ordered. Gives us a call. • Conveniently open 7 days (closed Christmas Day).

Pokolbin Village Shop Shop 3, 2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin Tel: 02 4998 6960 | Email: pvr@smellycheese.net.au Website: www.smellycheese.net.au

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Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin 02 4998 7584 • www.the-cellar-restaurant.com.au

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Gourmet. PAGE

TOURS

NAME

FREE TASTINGS

FEAST ON LOCAL PRODUCE AND DISCOVER BOUTIQUE BEERS.

ADDRESS

PHONE

MAP

Hope Brewhouse

@ Hope Estate, 2213 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4993 3555

✓

109

MAP 1 J6

Hunter Beer Co.

@ Potters Hotel Brewery Resort, Wine Country Dr, Nulkaba

02 4991 7922

✓

109

MAP 1 M11

Hunter Distillery

1686 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6737

✓

109

MAP 1 J3

Lovedale Brewery

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

02 4991 0900

110

MAP 1 K10

Matilda Bay Brewhouse

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

02 4998 7777

110

MAP 1 F2

Binnorie Dairy

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

02 4998 6660

✓

110

MAP 1 F2

Hunter Valley Cheese Factory

@ McGuigans Complex, 447 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7744

✓

110

MAP 1 J6

Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop

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

02 4998 6713

✓

110

MAP 1 J6

Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop

@ Pokolbin Village, 3/2188 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6960

✓

110

MAP 1 J6

La Glace Dessert Bar

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

02 4998 7777

110

MAP 1 F2

Lovedale Smokehouse

64 Majors Ln, Lovedale

02 4930 7832

✓

110

MAP 1 H12

Pokolbin General Store

@ Pokolbin Village, 2188 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7633

✓

110

MAP 1 J6

Pukara Estate

@ Ballabourneen Wine Co., 2347 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

0408 144 149

✓

111

MAP 1 J9

Pukara Estate

1440 Denman Rd, Muswellbrook

02 6547 1055

✓

111

MAP 1 B00

Tinklers Produce

53 Pokolbin Mountains Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7435

111

MAP 1 M4

Tintilla Estate Wines & Olives

725 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7093

111

MAP 1 F2

Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen

@ De Iuliis Wines, 1616 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6699

BREWERIES � DISTILLERIES

PRODUCE

FREE TASTING

✓

MAP 1 J2

TOURS

HOPE BREWHOUSE

HUNTER BEER CO.

HUNTER DISTILLERY

@ HOPE ESTATE, �� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

@ POTTERS HOTEL BREWERY RESORT, WINE COUNTRY DR, NULKABA

�� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4993 3555 E info@hopeestate.com.au hopeestate.com.au

Overlooking Hope Estate’s concert amphitheatre, Hope Brewhouse, Pokolbin’s newest craft brewery, offers a wide range of beers and cider brewed on site and served from 12 taps. With limited-edition and seasonal varieties, there’s always something different to try on a tasting paddle or take-home growler. Daily 10am–5pm

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

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

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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GOURMET

BREWERIES � DISTILLERIES • PRODUCE

LOVEDALE BREWERY

MATILDA BAY BREWHOUSE

BINNORIE DAIRY

@ CROWNE PLAZA HUNTER VALLEY, 430 WINE COUNTRY DR

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

@ TUSCANY WINE ESTATE, CNR HERMITAGE RD � MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

From the heart of the Hunter Valley, Lovedale Brewery is dedicated to creating the best craft beers in Australia. Brewed lovingly by hand in small batches, each variant is designed to epitomise the style, personality and people that make the Hunter Valley and Sydney great. Daily

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

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

HUNTER VALLEY CHEESE FACTORY

HUNTER VALLEY SMELLY CHEESE SHOP

LA GLACE DESSERT BAR

T 02 4991 0900 E reservations.hunter@ihg.com crowneplazahuntervalley.com.au

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

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

Watch the cheesemakers through viewing windows, sample handmade cheese made onsite, 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

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

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

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

LOVEDALE SMOKEHOUSE �� MAJORS LN, LOVEDALE

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

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

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

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

La Glace is the oldest confectionery in Denmark, founded in 1870. Hunter Valley Resort owners also have generations of Danish heritage as hoteliers in Copenhagen and La Glace was their favourite cafe growing up. Stop by for the freshest ice-creams, cakes, chocolates and, of course, coffee. Wed–Sun 11am– 4pm

POKOLBIN GENERAL STORE @ POKOLBIN VILLAGE, �� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7633

Call in for all your supplies – takeaway food and drinks; newspapers and magazines; groceries, local produce and ice-creams; espresso coffee, ice and giftware; tourist maps and information; and the little things you have left behind. Sun–Fri 8am–5pm, Sat 8am–6pm

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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GOURMET PRODUCE

PUKARA ESTATE

TINKLERS PRODUCE

@ PEPPERS CREEK VILLAGE, 1946 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

�� POKOLBIN MOUNTAINS RD, POKOLBIN

M 0408 144 149 E info@pukaraestate.com.au pukaraestate.com.au Pukara Estate delights tastebuds with an extensive range of flavoursome olive oils, vinegars, dukkahs, relishes, tapenades and mayonnaises. Enjoy a free tasting at the Pokolbin providore store. Daily 10am–5pm

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

TINTILLA ESTATE WINES � OLIVES �� HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 6574 7093 E info@tintilla.com.au tintilla.com.au Tintilla Estate olives are hand-picked and bottled with traditional herbs and spices. Sample fine olives, regional oils, luscious fig jams, mustards, verjuice, vinegars and local honey or order a cheese platter and sit on the deck with a glass of vino. Daily 10.30am–6pm

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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25/08/2015 8:17 am

Venture beyond the cellar door for a memorable experience A visit to Whispering Brook provides an experience that goes beyond wine. The estate is renowned for its welcoming ambience, relaxed Australian architecture, intimate cellar door with artisan wine and olives, boutique winery and natural beauty. The panoramic mountain views, estate vineyards and olive groves, casual dining, annual events and large guesthouse provide for a memorable experience.

“My Grandfather told me every persuit in life should be a Noble One” -Darren De Bortoli

See the beauty, experience the life, taste the wine. The subtle difference of artisan in every aspect Open weekends 10:30am – 5pm, Fridays 1:30pm-4:30pm and week days by appointment

DE BORTOLI

HUNTER VALLEY CELLAR DOOR On tasting everyday is a full range of wines including our world class selection of Premium Fortified wines and the iconic Noble One Dessert wine. Located at the gateway to the Hunter, open daily from 10am-5pm. Local artisan Craft Markets held every Saturday 9am-3pm. 532 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin NSW 2320 Ph: 02 4993 8800 E: hunter_info@debortoli.com.au debortoli.com.au

Telephone 02 6579 1386 or 02 9818 4126 CELLAR DOOR – Rodd Street, Broke NSW

www.whispering-brook.com

boutique wine olive tasting

er CellarDoor_D2.indd 1

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Tours. All Around the Vines

0459 145 065

All Hunter Wine Tours

0400 427 050

✓

Almighty Tours & Transport

Hunter Valley

0401 827 568

✓

Arrive First Class

131 Hill St, Carrington

0421 036 280

✓

Best Tour

0437 149 612

Cheers Bus

0408 987 057

✓

Country Trails Private Tours

0430 543 465

✓

diVine tours

0414 858 671

Fine Wine Tours

0421 855 355

✓

Grace Coaches

02 4930 6058

✓

Grape Vine Tours

0437 451 742

Hall’s Private Transfers

0431 810 548

✓

Heidi's Hunter Valley Tours

Hunter Valley

0408 623 136

✓

Hertz Rent A Car

1A Aberdare Rd, Cessnock

02 4991 2500

Hunter Private Tours Hunter Trikes

0419 851 010 332 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

✓

PAGE

0405 155 456

SMALL GROUP TOURS

PHONE

LARGE GROUP TOURS

ADDRESS

A Grape X Pectations Tour

TRANSFER SERVICES

NAME

SYDNEY PICK-UP

DISCOVER THE SECRETS OF THE HUNTER VALLEY.

MAP

115

N/A

115

N/A

115

N/A

✓

115

✓

115

N/A

✓

115

N/A

✓

115

N/A

115

N/A

✓

115

N/A

✓

116

N/A

✓

116

N/A

✓

116

MAP 1 O10

✓

N/A

✓

116

N/A

116

MAP 1 P11

✓

02 4991 7533

116

N/A

116

MAP 1 J11 MAP 1 E15

Hunter Valley Cadillacs

02 4996 4059

✓

116

Hunter Valley Classic Carriages

02 4991 3655

✓

116

N/A

✓

117

MAP 1 F2

Hunter Valley Horses

@ Hunter Valley Resort, 917 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

0431 337 367

✓

Hunter Valley Private Tours by Wendt on Tours

02 4998 6757

✓

117

N/A

Hunter Valley Vine Link

02 4930 7689

✓

117

N/A

Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Tours

02 9357 5511

✓

117

N/A

Hunter Vineyard Tours

02 4991 1659

✓

117

N/A

✓

117

iHop Hunter Valley

Hunter Valley

James’ Vineyard Tours Mr Wilson Hire Car

0455 535 035

✓

✓ ✓

✓

117

✓

N/A

117

MAP 1 B0 N/A

0437 151 500 Hunter Valley

Silver Service Limousines

0403 185 237 02 6571 1600

✓

MAP 1 B0

SydneyDriver.com

Sydney

0408 987 788

✓

117

Sydney Helitours

472 Ross Smith Ave, Mascot

02 9317 3402

✓

118

N/A

✓

118

MAP 1 K10

✓

118

N/A

✓

118

N/A

✓

N/A

MAP 1 Q8

✓

118

N/A

✓

118

N/A

✓

118

MAP 2 E3

✓

118

N/A

TexTours

0410 462 540

Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Tours

0414 316 859

Vineyard Shuttle Service

02 4991 3655

Wine Country Limousines

02 4990 2852

Wine Country Tours Wine D Road Tours

02 9484 0477 Hunter Valley

Wine Rover Zepher Tours

✓

✓ ✓

✓

0437 543 078

✓ ✓

02 4990 1699 5/14 Frederick St, Bondi

0406 757 295

✓

SYDNEY PICK-UP

REMARKABLE BLEND OF UNIQUE EXPERIENCES. A

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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AROUND

H E R M I TAG E

WINE AND FOOD TRAIL

Pokolbin Nor t h W ine Trail Why you should visit: © i { | ~{ x{ y{ { ~{ ^ { lw { © W w zC } { w z { w w © c{{ ~{ { w { w |w C {z y{ w z © h{ w x { wyy zw © X { w w z z y { © [w z { ~{ ^ { [ { w ^{ w}{ hz

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TOURS

A GRAPE X PECTATIONS TOUR

ALL AROUND THE VINES

Enjoy a grape time with a guided tour, private tailored tour or food and wine matching experience. A Grape X Pectations tour showcases the real taste of the Hunter Valley with hand-crafted premium wines and delicious food from renowned eateries for the ultimate sensory sensation. Daily (closed Good Friday, Xmas & New Year’s Day)

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

M 0405 155 456 E fun@grapetours.com.au grapetours.com.au

ALMIGHTY TOURS & TRANSPORT

M 0401 827 568 E almighty.transport@gmail.com winerytourshuntervalley.com.au Indulge in that extra glass of wine and leave your driving worries behind. Almighty Tours specialises in private wine tours and transport to/from Sydney. Create your own itinerary or leave it to Almighty Tours. Efficient and reliable transport services, day or night. Tours daily, transport anytime

CHEERS BUS 132 ABERDARE RD, CESSNOCK

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

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

ALL HUNTER WINE TOURS M 0400 427 050 E ahwt@bigpond.net.au allhunterwinetours.4t.com

All Hunter Wine Tours offers a great day out at competitive prices, visiting the smaller cellar doors for personalised tastings with prices and wine styles to suit all. Group tours for up to 13, or special private charter packages tailored to suit you. Daily

ARRIVE FIRST CLASS

BEST TOUR

Arrive First Class provides Hummers and helicopters with quality professional service and multiple package options including wedding cars, school formals, private helicopter getaways, fly and drive vineyard packages, airport transfers, hens nights, concerts and corporate events. Super-stretch limousines are ideal for an intimate evening or lavish celebration. 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

M 0421 036 280 E enquire@arrivefirstclass.com.au arrivefirstclass.com.au

M 0430 543 465 E info@countrytrails.com.au countrytrails.com.au Country Trails offers small-group shared and private wine tours, departing from Sydney or the Hunter Valley. Providing a highly personalised service, the shared tours are for a maximum of six and private tours are tailored to your requirements. Luxury Mercedes Viano tour vehicle. Daily

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

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TOURS

FINE WINE TOURS

GRACE COACHES

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

Looking for airport transfers, transport for your corporate or wedding guests or like to take friends on a winery tour? Grace Coaches offers personalised solutions for all occasions, providing bus and coach charters and tours, with minibuses and coaches that accommodate from five to large groups. Daily, 24 hours

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

HEIDI'S HUNTER VALLEY TOURS

HERTZ RENT A CAR

HUNTER PRIVATE TOURS

HUNTER VALLEY

�A ABERDARE RD, CESSNOCK

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

HUNTER TRIKES

HUNTER VALLEY CADILLACS

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

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

T 02 4930 6058 E info@gracecoaches.com.au gracecoacheshuntervalley.com.au

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

�� LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

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

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

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

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

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

M 0419 851 010 E hunterprivatetours@gmail.com hunterprivatetours.com.au Exclusive private tours showcasing the best of Wine Country. Indulge in premium local wines, gourmet produce and gorgeous scenery. Ideal for special occasions, special events or corporate activities. Each tour is unique and private to you and your chosen companions. Daily

HUNTER VALLEY CLASSIC CARRIAGES

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

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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TOURS

HUNTER VALLEY HORSES @ HUNTER VALLEY RESORT, �� 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

HUNTER VALLEY PRIVATE TOURS BY WENDT ON TOURS

T 02 4998 6757 E glenn@huntervalleyprivatetours.com.au huntervalleyprivatetours.com.au Full- and half-day personalised group or private boutique wine tours conducted by local hosts Glenn and Margaret Wendt. A one-course gourmet lunch is included with the full-day wine-tasting experience. Hosted in Mercedes-Benz MPVs that seat up to seven passengers. Daily (closed Xmas Day & Good Friday)

HUNTER VALLEY VINE LINK 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

HUNTER VINEYARD TOURS

iHOP HUNTER VALLEY

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)

Explore picturesque Pokolbin aboard the Hunter Valley’s only hop-on hop-off bus service and experience the best in local produce, cellar doors, breweries, distillery, shopping and restaurants via 13 hops (stops). Over 40 attractions! One- or two-day Hopper, one-way or return passes, accommodation transfers and charters available. Wed–Mon 10am–5pm

JAMES’ VINEYARD TOURS

SILVER SERVICE LIMOUSINES

SYDNEYDRIVER.COM

Join James for a wonderful day of wine tasting, visiting a selection of boutique cellar doors where you can share the passion of those creating great wines. Cheese, chocolate and olive oil tastings included. Group discounts and private 4WD tours available. Daily 9am–5pm

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

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

M 0437 151 500 E james@vineyardtours.com.au vineyardtours.com.au

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

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

M 0455 535 035 E explore@ihophuntervalley.com.au ihophuntervalley.com.au

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

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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TOURS

SYDNEY HELITOURS �� ROSS SMITH AVE, MASCOT T 02 9317 3402

E bookings@sydneyhelitours.com.au sydneyhelitours.com.au Whether you’re after a Hunter Valley lunch package, a helicopter transfer to or from Sydney or a custom tour where you decide the itinerary, Sydney Helitours can provide a solution. Complimentary minibus service to and from Sydney’s CBD. Winner of the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2013 and 2014. Flights daily

TEXTOURS

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

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)

VINEYARD SHUTTLE SERVICE

WINE COUNTRY TOURS

WINE D ROAD TOURS

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

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

WINE ROVER

ZEPHER TOURS

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

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

T 02 4990 1699 E bookings@rovercoaches.com.au rovercoaches.com.au Wine Rover moves you effortlessly through one of the world’s great wine regions, stopping at specially selected wineries and attractions, including Pokolbin Village and Hunter Valley Gardens Village, so you can experience the best of the Valley. Pick-ups arranged from all Wine Country accommodation. Mon–Sat 9.30am–4.30pm

118 HV006.indb 118

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

�/�� 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

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆

5 Star Winery HALLIDAY WINE COMPANION

OPEN DAILY 401-427 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin, NSW p: 02 4998 7559 W W W. B R O K E N WO O D.CO M . AU

Hunter Valley Horses 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

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

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

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Horse & Carriage Wine Tours Horse Riding, Weddings Open daily from 8am, bookings essential Ph: 0431 337 367 917 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320 (home of Hunter Resort & Matilda Bay Brewhouse)

e. hvhorseriding@yahoo.com.au w. www.huntervalleycarriages.com.au

2/26/16 1:18 PM

• 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

HUNTER DISTILLERY is the only certiﬁed organic distillery in the Hunter Valley wine region of New South Wales. Locally owned and operated, we produce an exceptional range of top shelf spirits, including Vodkas, Liqueurs, Schnapps and our award winning COPPERWAVE GIN. Visit and sample our unique range of spirits, with a ﬂavour for every taste.

An amazing experience not to be missed.

Open 7 days 10am - 5pm

1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin 02 4998 6737 info@hunterdistillery.com.au www.hunterdistillery.com.au

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Experiences. ADDRESS

PHONE

PAGE

NAME

FREE WIFI

ENJOY A RANGE OF ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS.

MAP

ACTIVITIES Aqua Golf & Putt Putt

@ Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7896

123

MAP 1 J5

Hunter Wine Theatre

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

02 4998 7777

123

MAP 1 F2

NSW Segway Tours

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

1300 465 636

123

MAP 1 F2

Ogishi Craft Centre

540 Wilderness Rd, Rothbury

02 4998 7979

123

MAP 1 H9

Pokolbin Gallery & Mistletoe Sculpture Garden

771 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7770

123

MAP 1 F2

Hunter Valley Gardens

2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 4000

123

MAP 1 J5

Roche Estate

Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rds, Pokolbin

02 4998 4000

123

MAP 1 J6

Wollombi Tavern

2994 Great North Rd, Wollombi

02 4998 3261

123

MAP 1 S2

MAP 1 J9

ARTS � CRAFTS ✓

ATTRACTIONS

BALLOON FLIGHTS Balloon Aloft

Meeting @ Peterson House, Broke Rd, Pokolbin

Balloon Safaris

1300 723 279

124

1800 818 191

124

MAP 1 J9

Cloud 9 Balloon Flights

Meeting @ The Sebel Kirkton Park Hunter Valley, 336 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin

1300 555 711

N/A

MAP1 M7

Wine Country Ballooning

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

02 4991 7533

124

MAP 1 J6

Hunter Valley Wine, Cooking & Candy School

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

02 4998 7777

124

MAP 1 F2

Majors Lane Cooking School

64 Majors Ln, Lovedale

02 4930 7832

124

MAP 1 H12

The Cooking School

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

02 4998 7288

124

MAP 1 F2

Cypress Lakes Golf & Country Club

15 Thompsons Rd, Pokolbin

02 4993 1555

114

MAP 1 K5

Hunter Valley Golf

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

02 4991 0977

124

MAP 1 K10

The Vintage Golf Club

Vintage Dr, Rothbury

02 4998 2208

124

MAP 1 H7

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

125

MAP 1 F11

COOKING

GOLF

HORSERIDING ✓

SHOPPING Australian Alpaca Barn

1946 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6669

125

MAP 1 J4

Come What May

@ Calais Estate, 151 Palmers Ln, Pokolbin

0400 747 072

125

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

125

MAP 1 J5

Lovedale Antiques Old Wares & Gallery

820 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 7239

125

MAP 1 G13

Mortels Sheepskin Factory

1 Weakleys Dr, Thornton

02 4966 0990

Pokolbin Village

2188 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7670

Wine Glass Gallery

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

Ye Olde General Store Pokolbin

125

MAP 1 E15

125

MAP 1 J6

02 4998 6888

N/A

MAP 1 J5

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

126

MAP 2 B3

Château Élan Spa

Vintage Dr, Rothbury

02 4998 2500

126

MAP 1 H7

Golden Door Spa Elysia

165 Thompsons Rd, Pokolbin

02 4993 8500

126

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

126

MAP 1 D2

Thai Nature Massage, Cessnock

40 Cumberland St, Cessnock

02 4991 3331

126

MAP 2 D5

Ubika Spa

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

02 4991 0959

126

MAP1 K10

✓

SPAS ✓

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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Hunter Valley Christmas Shop

RELAX & REJUVENATE IN LUXURY

with a complimentary treatment With two tranquil treatment rooms, fully qualified therapists and a luxurious range of massages, treatments, body wraps and facials, Spa Anise at Spicers Vineyards Estate is the perfect place to settle in and truly indulge the senses.

MENTION THE HUNTER VALLEY MAGAZINE WHEN BOOKING OUR SIGNATURE VINO THERAPY FACIAL AND RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY HEAVENLY HAIR TREATMENT UPGRADE.

Open 7 Days, 10am to 5pm Hunter Valley Gardens Village Shops. Broke Road, Pokolbin, NSW Ph 02 4998 6834. www.hvchristmasshop.com.au

Ph (02) 6574 7229

20% OFF! When you mention this advert*

Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures Spectacular Hunter Valley and Wine Country Views Incredible Native Wildlife - Kangaroos HORSE RIDING - For the Beginner and Experienced Rider Sunset Rides - Picnic Rides - Personalised Rides Hens & Bucks Days - Corporate Groups PONY Rides - Hay Rides - Farm Animals Ride over 300 Magnificent Acres STAY - In Villa and Guest House Accommodation Just 3.88km from the Hunter Expressway

288 Talga Road, Rothbury, NSW 2320 P: 02 4930 7111 E: stay@hilltopguesthouse.com.au W: www.huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au

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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.

2/26/16 1:18 PM

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

@ 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 CENTRE

POKOLBIN GALLERY � MISTLETOE SCULPTURE GARDEN

HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS

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

�� WILDERNESS RD, ROTHBURY

T 02 4998 7979 E info@ogishi.com.au ogishi.com.au This gallery exhibits and sells Setsuko Ogishi’s glass, as well as a variety of Australian-made fine crafts. Enjoy a green tea cappuccino or hot chocolate on the verandah and book in for a glassblowing lesson for a fun and creative experience that will put a smile on your face. Fri–Mon 11am–4pm

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

�� HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

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

�� 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 �� 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 145

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EXPERIENCES BALLOON FLIGHTS • COOKING • GOLF

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, �� 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@tuscanywineestate.com.au tuscanywineestate.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

CYPRESS LAKES GOLF � COUNTRY CLUB �� THOMPSONS RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4993 1555 E cypresslakes@theoaksgroup.com.au oakshotelsresorts.com This 18-hole championship golf course offers visitors an unrivalled experience in the Hunter Valley with panoramic views across the vineyards and surrounding mountain ranges promised from each tee and green. Offers corporate golf event packages, club memberships or rounds at leisure. Daily 6am–dusk

124 HV006.indb 124

�� 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

@ TUSCANY WINE ESTATE, 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 Tuscany Wine Estate Resort. This hands-on cooking school is for groups of two people and upwards. Brilliant fun, educational and team building. By appointment

HUNTER VALLEY GOLF

THE VINTAGE GOLF CLUB

@ CROWNE PLAZA HUNTER VALLEY, 430 WINE COUNTRY DR, LOVEDALE T 02 4991 0977 E huntervalleygolf@ihg.com

VINTAGE DR, ROTHBURY

huntervalleygolfcc.com.au

Enjoy a spectacular 18-hole championship course set among the Hunter Valley’s world-famous vineyards with premium resort facilities, impressive mountain range views and warm, friendly service. Experience the home of golf in the Hunter Valley. Daily 6.30am–5.30pm (daylight savings 6.30am–6.30pm)

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

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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EXPERIENCES HORSERIDING • SHOPPING

HUNTER VALLEY HORSE RIDING � ADVENTURES

AUSTRALIAN ALPACA BARN

COME WHAT MAY

�� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

@ CALAIS ESTATE, �� PALMERS LN, POKOLBIN

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

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

This homewares and gift shop combines both vintage treasures and modern pieces. The collection has many special items that help make a house a home, ranging from beautiful soaps to unique furniture. Thu–Sun 10am–5pm

HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS SHOPPING VILLAGE

LOVEDALE ANTIQUES OLD WARES � GALLERY

MORTELS SHEEPSKIN FACTORY

�� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

�� LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

�� TALGA RD, ROTHBURY T 02 4930 7111

E ride@huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au

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 6669 E sales@australianalpaca.com australianalpaca.com

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

1 WEAKLEYS DR, THORNTON

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

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

WHY DRIVE YOUR SELF ? BOOK A TOUR OR POKOLBIN VILLAGE

TRANSFER ONLINE.

�� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

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

winecountry.com.au

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EXPERIENCES SPAS

BHUTRA THAI MASSAGE

CHÂTEAU ÉLAN SPA

GOLDEN DOOR SPA ELYSIA

�� WOLLOMBI RD, CESSNOCK

VINTAGE DR, ROTHBURY

�� 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

UBIKA SPA

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

@ SPICERS VINEYARDS ESTATE, �� 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

@ CROWNE PLAZA HUNTER VALLEY, 430 WINE COUNTRY DR, LOVEDALE T 02 4991 0959

spicersretreats.com spicersretreats.com

�� 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

E spa.hunter@ihg.com ubikaspa.com

thainaturemassage.com.au

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

RELAX... REJUVENATE... REVIVE.

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HUNTER VALLEY

Hunter

Honey Hive

Tastings daily

open daily 10-5

Honey Tasting Bee and Honey Giftware Honey Cosmetics Clothing

Hunter Valley Gardens Village Enter Via Ye Olde General Store

HV006.indb 127

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

DRINK - PLAY - STAY

2/26/16 1:18 PM

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 • A C C O M M O D AT I O N • G A L L E RY • R E S TA U R A N T 438 WILDERNESS ROAD LOVEDALE • 02 4998 7734 • www.emmascottage.com.au

HUNTER COUNTRY LODGE & SHAKEY TABLES RESTAURANT - DINNER

7 NIGHTS • LUNCH SATURDAY & SUNDAY

www.huntercountrylodge.com.au • 1476 Wine Country Drive North Rothbury • 4938 1744

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Accommodation. PAGE

WINERY/CELLAR DOOR

SWIMMING POOL

SPAS

RESTAURANT

PET FRIENDLY

LOG OR GAS FIRES

FUNCTION AREA

FREE WIFI

BREAKFAST (INCL’D)

PHONE

BBQ

ADDRESS

AIR CONDITIONED

NAME

TARIFF

FIND YOUR HUNTER VALLEY HOME AWAY FROM HOME.

MAP

RESORTS/HOTELS 132

MAP 1 K7

132

MAP 1 H7

✓ ✓ ✓

132

MAP 1 K10

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

132

MAP 1 K5

Carriages Boutique Hotel & Vineyard

@ Diamond Estate, 112 Halls Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7591

$$$

Cháteau Élan at The Vintage

Vintage Dr, Rothbury

02 4998 2500

$$$$

✓ ✓

Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley

430 Wine Country Dr, Lovedale

02 4991 0900

$$$

✓ ✓

Cypress Lakes Resort by Oaks Hotels & Resorts

Cnr McDonalds & Thompsons Rds, Pokolbin

1300 886 091

$$$$

✓

✓ ✓ ✓

Grand Mercure The Vintage

Vintage Dr, Rothbury

02 4998 2222

$$$

✓

Harrigan’s Irish Pub & Accommodation

Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 4300

✓

✓ ✓

Hermitage Lodge

609 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7639

$$$

✓

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Hunter Country Lodge

1476 Wine Country Dr, North Rothbury

02 4938 1744

Hunter Valley Resort

Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7777

Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens

2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 2000

$$$

✓

Pokolbin Village

2188 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7670

$$$

✓ ✓

Potters Hotel Brewery Resort

Wine Country Dr, Nulkaba

02 4991 7922

The Sebel Kirkton Park Hunter Valley

336 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7680

Tuscany Wine Estate Resort

Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7288

Amelies on Pokolbin Mountain

338 Pokolbin Mountains Rd, Pokolbin

Avoca House & Cottage Accommodation

2683 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi

Bellbird Cottages & Swallows Homestead

Lewis Ln, Mount View near Millfield

Blackwattle Luxury Retreats Bluebush Estate

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

1132

MAP 1 H7

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

132

MAP 1 J5

✓ ✓ ✓

132

MAP 1 I7

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓

132

MAP 1 E9

✓ ✓

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

133

MAP 1 F2

✓ ✓ ✓

133

MAP 1 J6

✓

133

MAP 1 J6

✓ ✓

✓ ✓ ✓

133

MAP 1 M11

$$$

✓

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

133

MAP 1 M7

$$$

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓ ✓

133

MAP 1 F2

0413 813 399

$$$

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

N/A

MAP 1 N3

0404 032 303

$$$

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓

N/A

MAP 1 S3

0414 786 705

✓ ✓ ✓

✓ ✓

133

MAP 1 Q5

169 Talga Rd, Lovedale

0421 419 371

$$$

✓ ✓ ✓

196 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 7177

Broken View Estate

547 Old North Rd, Pokolbin

0400 112 341

$$$

Buffs at Pokolbin

47 Coulson Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7636

$$$

Casa La Vina

657 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

0406 770 294

Cedar Creek Cottages

1840 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi

02 4998 1576

Cedars Mount View

60 Mitchells Rd, Mount View

02 4990 9009

Clydes at Mount View

27 King Rd, Mount View

02 9918 4149

$$$

Cottages on Mount View

1329 Mount View Rd, Mount View

02 4990 8989

$$$

Crosswood Estate

120 Old North Rd, Pokolbin

0418 649 554

$$$$

✓ ✓

Dandaloo Cottages

70 Green Ln, Lovedale

0419 200 017

$$$

✓ ✓

✓

Deja Vu Estate

280 Old North Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7178

$$$$

✓ ✓ ✓

✓ ✓

Earth Inspired Retreats

277 Wollong Rd, Quorrobolong

02 4998 6003

✓

✓ ✓ ✓

Emma's Cottage

438 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale

02 4998 7734

✓ ✓

✓

Englewood Ridge

65 Talga Rd, Lovedale

0417 287 345

✓ ✓

Grapevines Boutique Accommodation

1941 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6766

$$$

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

135

MAP 1 J5

Gypsy Willows Wollombi

201 Narone Creek Rd, Wollombi

02 4998 3404

$$$

✓ ✓

N/A

MAP 1 S3

✓

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓

SELF-CONTAINED ✓

N/A

MAP 1 F12

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

134

MAP 1 G10

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

✓ ✓

134

MAP 1 F4

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓

134

MAP 1 F7

$$$$

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓

$$$$

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓

✓ ✓

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

✓ ✓

✓

134

MAP 1 I7

134

MAP 1 R4

✓

134

MAP 1 P6

✓

N/A

MAP 1 P6

✓

134

MAP 1 Q6

134

MAP 1 D3

134

MAP 1 I11

✓

135

MAP 1 E3

135

MAP 1 S14

✓ ✓

135

MAP 1 G10

✓

135

MAP 1 F12

✓ ✓

✓

135

MAP 1 F11

135

MAP 1 D11

Hill Top Country Guest House

288 Talga Rd, Rothbury

02 4930 7111

✓

Hunter Hideaway Cottages

234 Tuckers Ln, North Rothbury

0408 499 557

✓ ✓

IronBark Hill Accommodation

694 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 4964 4028

$$$

✓ ✓

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Ironstone Estate

97 Olsen Rd, Lovedale

0416 048 424

✓ ✓

✓

Lilies Luxury Retreat

60 Majors Ln, Lovedale

0428 698 881

$$$

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

Lillians on Lovedale

356 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4990 6958

$$$

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

Lovedale Cottages

77 Brickmans Ln, Lovedale

0409 246 661

$$$

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓

✓ ✓

136

MAP 1 I11

Lovedale Lodge

197 Londons Rd, Lovedale

02 4384 3394

✓ ✓

✓

136

MAP 1 J12

Madigan Vineyard

504 Wilderness Rd, Rothbury

02 4998 7815

✓ ✓

Midnight’s Promise Estate

300 Talga Rd, Lovedale

02 9235 3947

$$$$

Nirvana Vista Resort

Lot 3 Sweetwater Rd, Rothbury

0409 461 711

$$$

$0–$100

$101–$200

$201–$300

$301–upwards

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓ ✓ ✓

135

MAP 1 F2

✓

135

MAP 1 K12

N/A

MAP 1 H12

136

MAP 1 I11

✓ ✓

✓

✓ ✓ ✓

✓ ✓

136

MAP 1 G9

136

MAP 1 F11

136

MAP 1 E4

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

WINECOUNTRY.COM.AU

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Accommodation. $$

02 6570 3800

$$$

✓ ✓

✓

RidgeView Cottages

273 Sweetwater Rd, Pokolbin

0419 475 221

$$$$

✓ ✓

Rothvale Vineyard Cottages

223 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7290

$$$

Serenity Grove

556 Milbrodale Rd, Broke

02 6579 1444

Somewhere Unique

Narone Creek Rd, Wollombi

02 4998 3257

$$$$

Tatler Vineyard Accommodation

477 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

02 4930 9139

$$$

Tellace Wines Accommodation

356 Tuckers Ln, North Rothbury

02 4938 7173

$$$$

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓

The Grange on Hermitage

820 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7388

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓

The Pines

67 Whitings Ln, Quorrobolong

0412 957 038

$$$$

✓ ✓

✓

The Vintry

780 DeBeyers Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6825

$$$$

✓ ✓

✓ ✓ ✓

The Wattle Lodge

1402 Glendon Brook Rd, Glendon Brook

02 6577 6193

✓ ✓

The Woods at Pokolbin

107 Halls Rd, Pokolbin

0412 627 316

$$$

Tranquil Vistas

485 Luskintyre Rd, Luskintyre

0477 779 695

Valleyfield Escape

3471 Great North Rd, Laguna

02 9360 6729

$$$$

Wattle-Wilde Country Hideaway

154 Londons Rd, Lovedale

0407 559 917

$$$

Wine Country Villas

136 Thompsons Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7630

Wirral Grange Cottage

168 Lomas Ln, Lovedale

02 4991 2874

Woolshed Hill Estate

342 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 7685

Capers Guesthouse & Cottage

2859 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi

02 4998 3211

Spicers Vineyards Estate

555 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

02 6574 7229

$$$$

Cessnock Motel

13 Allandale Rd, Cessnock

02 4990 2699

✓ ✓

Hunter Valley Hotel Academy

McLeod Rd (off Heddon St), Kurri Kurri

02 4936 0341

✓

Hunter Valley Retreat

626 Sandy Creek Rd, Quorrobolong

02 4998 6007

The Remington

28–32 Maitland St, Muswellbrook

02 65415858

$$$

✓

Wine Country Motor Inn

5 Darwin St, Cessnock

02 4993 2999

✓

1214 Leggetts Dr, Mount Vincent

0438 505 045

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

137 Mount View Rd, Cessnock

1800 649 156

✓ ✓

✓

PAGE

02 4998 7504

5–7 Civic Ave, Singleton

WINERY/CELLAR DOOR

493 Marrowbone Rd, Pokolbin

Quest Singleton

SWIMMING POOL

Old Hillside Homestead

SPAS

PHONE

RESTAURANT

ADDRESS

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.

MAP

SELF-CONTAINED CONTINUED ✓ ✓ ✓

✓

136

MAP 1 E4

136

MAP 1 G4

N/A

MAP 1 H00

137

MAP 1 S3

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

137

MAP 1 H12

✓

137

MAP 1 D12

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

✓ ✓

✓

✓ ✓

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓

✓ ✓

✓

$$$$

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓

$$$

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓ ✓

$$$

✓ ✓

MAP 4 A4

✓ ✓

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

MAP 1 N4

136 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

N/A

✓

✓ ✓

137

MAP 1 F2

137

MAP 1 T13

137

MAP 1 L3

137

MAP 1 A9

137

MAP 1 K8

137

MAP 1 C14

138

MAP 1 T2

138

MAP 1 K11

138

MAP 1 K5

✓

138

MAP 1 L11

✓

138

MAP 1 G5

GUESTHOUSES ✓

✓ ✓

138

MAP 1 S2

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓ ✓ ✓

138

MAP 1 D2

✓

N/A

MAP 1 O11

138

MAP 2 A10

138

MAP 1 S14

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

MOTELS ✓ ✓

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓

✓ ✓

N/A

MAP 1 M7

139

MAP 1 P11

139

MAP 1 S15

139

MAP 1 O10

BED � BREAKFASTS Brilex Park B&B

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

T H E LU X U RY O F M A N Y ACCO M M O DAT I O N O P T I O N S , WITH THE CONVENIENCE OF ONLINE BOOKING.

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Farm. Forage. Graze Hunter Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Newest Restaurant & Bar!

Locavore Dining

Bringing farmers and foodies together.

Epoche Lounge Bar A Moment in Time.

A NEW reason to visit the Hunter Valley The Sebel Kirkton Park Hunter Valley

02 4998 7680 www.sebelhuntervalley.com.au

The Ultimate Exclusive Experience

Twice winner of the World Luxury Lodge Awards, Tower Lodge is available only for exclusive use. An ideal location for executive conferences, corporate incentives, retreats and boutique weddings ensuring uncompromising privacy and confidentiality. Inspections by appointment, contact via exclusive@towerestate.com.au towerestate.com.au

HV006.indb 131

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ACCOMMODATION RESORTS/HOTELS

CARRIAGES BOUTIQUE HOTEL � VINEYARD @ DIAMOND ESTATE, �� 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

CHÂTEAU ÉLAN AT THE VINTAGE VINTAGE DR, ROTHBURY

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

GRAND MERCURE THE VINTAGE VINTAGE DR, ROTHBURY

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 onsite facilities for you to enjoy.

HARRIGAN’S IRISH PUB � ACCOMMODATION

T 1300 886 091 E cypresslakes@theoaksgroup.com.au oakshotelsresorts.com

T 02 4998 2222 E reservations@grandmercurethevintage.com.au grandmercurehuntervalley.com.au

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.

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.

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.

HERMITAGE LODGE

HUNTER COUNTRY LODGE

�� MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

�� WINE COUNTRY DR, NORTH ROTHBURY

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.

Wake up to birdsong and grazing kangaroos at Hunter Country Lodge, which is tucked away on 100 acres of bushland, deep within a working vineyard. The Lodge has 16 ensuite rooms with vineyard views, a swimming pool, entertainment deck and BBQ, and is home to the award-winning Shakey Tables Restaurant.

CNR MCDONALDS � THOMPSONS RDS, POKOLBIN

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

132 HV006.indb 132

BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

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

T 02 4938 1744 E simon@huntercountrylodge.com.au huntercountrylodge.com.au

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ACCOMMODATION RESORTS/HOTELS • SELF-CONTAINED

HUNTER VALLEY RESORT CNR HERMITAGE RD � MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

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

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.

MERCURE RESORT HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS

POKOLBIN VILLAGE �� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 7670 E relax@pokolbinvillage.com.au pokolbinvillage.com.au

�� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

T 02 4998 2000 E reservations@mercurehuntervalley.com.au mercurehuntervalley.com.au With an enviable location next to the display gardens and boutique shopping village, this 72-room resort is the ideal place for a conference, celebration or a relaxing escape. Facilities include a restaurant, day spa, swimming pool, tennis courts and fitness centre.

POTTERS HOTEL BREWERY RESORT

THE SEBEL KIRKTON PARK HUNTER VALLEY

WINE COUNTRY DR, NULKABA

�� 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.

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

With an unrivalled location right in the centre of Wine Country, Pokolbin Village is the ideal base for couples, families and groups seeking comfortable accommodation with a charming and friendly village atmosphere. Relax by the swimming pool, play tennis or boules, dine onsite or explore the shops.

TUSCANY WINE ESTATE RESORT CNR HERMITAGE RD � MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

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

T 02 4998 7680 E h8797@accor.com sebelhuntervalley.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, massage therapist and onsite cellar door, as well as the acclaimed Binnorie Dairy, Mill Restaurant and Brokenback Bar.

HOW AN HOUR

PRESSING GRAPES

PRODUCED A VINTAGE YEAR BELLBIRD COTTAGES � SWALLOWS HOMESTEAD

FROM THE

SALES TEAM.

LEWIS LN, MOUNT VIEW NEAR MILLFIELD

M 0414 786 705 E suziq@netspace.net.au bellbirdcottage.com.au

The Sydney Morning Herald Good Weekend magazine’s Best Weekend Away. Just 15 minutes from Pokolbin, concert venues and other attractions, yet wake up to bellbirds on the tranquil side of the Valley. Three vintage cottages on 120 private acres, for couples or groups of up to 20. Pooch friendly.

hvbusinessevents.com.au

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ACCOMMODATION SELF-CONTAINED

BROKEN VIEW ESTATE

BUFFS AT POKOLBIN

�� WILDERNESS RD, LOVEDALE

�� OLD NORTH RD, POKOLBIN

�� COULSON RD, POKOLBIN

Recipient of TripAdvisor’s 2015 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 ★★★★ rating.

Looking for the perfect place to recharge, rekindle, rediscover and relax? The ★★★★ 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.

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.

CASA LA VINA

CEDAR CREEK COTTAGES

CEDARS MOUNT VIEW

�� MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN

�� WOLLOMBI RD, WOLLOMBI

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

�� MITCHELLS RD, MOUNT VIEW

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

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 undercover parking. AAA ★★★★ rating.

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.

COTTAGES ON MOUNT VIEW

CROSSWOOD ESTATE

DANDALOO COTTAGES

�� MOUNT VIEW RD, MOUNT VIEW

120 OLD NORTH RD, POKOLBIN

70 GREEN LN, LOVEDALE

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 ★★★★ rating.

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.

Country accommodation nestled in a quiet, secluded bush enclave on a 320-acre property in the heart of Lovedale. The self-contained cottage has three bedrooms, two with queen beds and one with two singles, two bathrooms, air conditioning, log fire and verandahs with uninterrupted views.

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

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

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

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M 0400 112 341 E info@brokenviewestate.com.au brokenviewestate.com.au

T 0418 649 554 E greg@marketownmedia.com

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

M 0419 200 017 E timk@hirondelle.com.au dandaloocottages.com

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ACCOMMODATION SELF-CONTAINED

DEJA VU ESTATE

EARTH INSPIRED RETREATS

EMMA'S COTTAGE

280 OLD NORTH RD, POKOLBIN

�� WOLLONG RD, QUORROBOLONG

438 WILDERNESS RD, LOVEDALE

The perfect place for couples. New and very private luxury villas with a small vineyard set on 35 bushland acres. Facilities include spa bath, outdoor jacuzzi, separate lounge and bedroom, two open fireplaces, four-poster bed, A/C, plasma TVs, Bose system, gourmet kitchen and more.

Earth Inspired Retreats offers total seclusion and separation from our busy world. Set on 50 acres of virgin bush complete with wildlife galore, the retreat comprises three apartments with five bedrooms. Huge verandahs, living area and swimming dam. Perfect for quiet family retreats and company gatherings.

Emma’s Cottage Vineyard is located in peaceful Lovedale, the heart of Hunter Valley Wine Country. There are four self-contained cottages to choose from, all with views over the vineyard, and an onsite restaurant. Emma’s is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of the country.

ENGLEWOOD RIDGE

GRAPEVINES BOUTIQUE ACCOMMODATION

HILL TOP COUNTRY GUEST HOUSE

�� BROKE RD, POKOLBIN

288 TALGA RD, ROTHBURY

Grapevines provides a peaceful environment for couples and smaller groups up to 22. The selfcontained villas have breathtaking views and are within walking distance of Harrigan’s Irish Pub and Hunter Valley Gardens and Village. Wine and cheese board included. AAA ★★★★ rating.

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.

HUNTER HIDEAWAY COTTAGES

IRONBARK HILL

IRONSTONE ESTATE

�� TUCKERS LN, NORTH ROTHBURY

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

�� OLSEN RD, LOVEDALE

T 02 6574 7178 E dejavuestate@me.com dejavuestate.com.au

�� TALGA RD, LOVEDALE

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.

M 0408 499 557 E stay@hunterhideaway.com.au hunterhideaway.com.au Spot kangaroos at dusk and dawn in this quiet bushland setting. Three cedar cottages are hidden among shady gums, featuring cosy gas log fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens, A/C, shady verandahs and BBQs. Each two-bedroom cottage accommodates up to eight and is pet friendly.

T 02 4998 6003 E janette.craft@yahoo.com.au earthinspiredretreats.com

T 02 4998 6766 E stay@grapevines.com.au grapevines.com.au

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

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 onsite cellar door, which is open daily.

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

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

M 0416 048 424 E stay@ironstoneestate.com.au ironstoneestate.com.au Ironstone Estate consists of two spacious, selfcontained country homes located on a 45-acre vineyard estate in the scenic Lovedale area. The Lodge has six bedrooms, all with ensuites, while the Homestead has five bedrooms, three bathrooms and a swimming pool. Both houses have wood fires and BBQ facilities.

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ACCOMMODATION SELF-CONTAINED

LILLIANS ON LOVEDALE

LOVEDALE COTTAGES

LOVEDALE LODGE

�� LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

�� BRICKMANS LN, LOVEDALE

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

�� LONDONS RD, LOVEDALE

T 02 4384 3394 E info@lovedalelodge.com lovedalelodge.com

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.

Charming AAA ★★★★ -rated homestead, villa and two cottages on a secluded 36-acre property. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, meet the kangaroos or relax with a glass of wine. Perfect for a weekend getaway with a group of friends (sleeps 4–30).

MADIGAN VINEYARD

MIDNIGHT’S PROMISE ESTATE

NIRVANA VISTA RESORT

�� WILDERNESS RD, ROTHBURY

�� TALGA RD, LOVEDALE

LOT � SWEETWATER RD, ROTHBURY

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).

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.

QUEST SINGLETON

RIDGEVIEW COTTAGES

ROTHVALE VINEYARD COTTAGES

5–7 CIVIC AVE, SINGLETON

�� SWEETWATER RD, POKOLBIN

�� DEASYS RD, POKOLBIN

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

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

T 02 4998 7815 E reservations@madiganvineyard.com.au madiganvineyard.com.au Conveniently located with the focus on the peaceful country surroundings of Lovedale, Madigan Vineyard offers four self-contained cottages and a homestead suitable for couples, families and groups of up to 30. All are well equipped & comfortable with private balconies and BBQs. Your ideal Hunter Valley accommodation.

T 02 6570 3800 E questsingleton@questapartments.com.au questsingleton.com.au Quest Singleton offers spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom self-contained serviced apartments, an onsite gym, barbecue terrace and conference facilities. It is minutes from the local vineyards, the deep valleys of the coalmines and the Singleton Army Base. Winner of the 2015 HotelsCombined Stellar Stay Award.

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

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

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

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

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ACCOMMODATION SELF-CONTAINED

SOMEWHERE UNIQUE NARONE CREEK RD, WOLLOMBI

T 02 4998 3257 E info@somewhereunique.com.au somewhereunique.com.au

TATLER VINEYARD ACCOMMODATION

TELLACE WINES ACCOMMODATION

�� LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE

�� TUCKERS LN, NORTH ROTHBURY

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

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

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 PINES

THE VINTRY

�� HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN

67 WHITINGS LN, QUORROBOLONG

�� DEBEYERS RD, POKOLBIN

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 Pines is a four-bedroom farmhouse on 23 acres, situated close to the foot of the Watagan Mountains in Quorrobolong. You can cook homemade pizzas in the authentic Italian woodfired pizza oven, relax by the outdoor fire pit, whilst the kids ride the bikes on the dirt bike track, complete with jumps.

A luxury country house with a AAA ★★★★ rating located in the vineyards with a beautiful bushland setting. You’ll enjoy something truly unique at this award-winning property, whether it’s a weekend with friends or an escape with your partner, with all the extra touches adding to the experience.

THE WATTLE LODGE

THE WOODS AT POKOLBIN

TRANQUIL VISTAS

�� GLENDON BROOK RD, GLENDON BROOK

�� HALLS RD, POKOLBIN

485 LUSKINTYRE RD, LUSKINTYRE

Escape to the country. Wattle Lodge is located on a rural grazing property halfway between Pokolbin and the Barrington Tops. The lodge has two bedrooms with ensuites, kitchenette, spacious dining/living room, reverse-cycle A/C and barbecue on the deck overlooking the countryside. Dog stays are welcome by request.

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.

Situated on 100 acres of rolling green hills in Luskintyre and yet only 10 minutes to major Hunter Valley attractions. This private and spacious Australiana-style, four-bedroom home is open plan and has everything you need for that perfect getaway. Groups and families welcome.

Nestled in the bushland of the beautiful Wollombi Valley sit two completely private couples-only retreats. Enjoy peace and quiet, a king-sized bed, two-person soaker bath, gorgeous views and more. Only minutes from boutique vineyards, cafes and historic Wollombi village. Eco-certified, awardwinning and ★★★★ AAA-rated.

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

T 02 6577 6193 E info@thewattlelodge.com.au thewattlelodge.com.au

T 0412 957 038 E thepineshunter@gmail.com

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

T 02 4998 6825 E stay@thevintry.com.au vintry.com.au

M 0477 779 695 E info@tranquilvistas.com.au tranquilvistas.com.au

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ACCOMMODATION SELF-CONTAINED • GUESTHOUSES • MOTELS

VALLEYFIELD ESCAPE 3471 GREAT NORTH RD, LAGUNA

M 02 9360 6729 E info@valleyfieldescape.com.au valleyfieldescape.com.au Luxury private accommodation for one couple at the country retreat of restaurateur Armando Percuoco of Buon Ricordo in Sydney. Set on 220 acres of garden and sculpture walk by landscape architect Michael Cook, with an olive grove and native bushland, bordered by Wollombi Brook.

WATTLE-WILDE COUNTRY HIDEAWAY �� LONDONS RD, LOVEDALE

M 0407 559 917 E wattle-wilde@bigpond.com wattle-wilde.com.au Designed for up to three couples and set on 25 acres of bushland, this two-bedroom, self-contained cottage is private and secluded, yet only minutes from cellar doors, concert venues and restaurants. Complete with spa, wood fire, complimentary wine and deck to watch the kangaroos.

WINE COUNTRY VILLAS �� THOMPSONS RD, POKOLBIN

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

WIRRAL GRANGE COTTAGE

WOOLSHED HILL ESTATE

�� LOMAS LN, LOVEDALE

�� DEASYS RD, POKOLBIN

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.

Discover a boutique resort with its own private golf course – the perfect place for your Wine Country getaway. Woolshed Hill specialises in large groups of up to 30 adults with log fires, swimming pool, tennis court and everything else you need for a memorable weekend away with family and friends.

SPICERS VINEYARDS ESTATE

HUNTER VALLEY HOTEL ACADEMY

HUNTER VALLEY RETREAT

MCLEOD RD (OFF HEDDON ST), KURRI KURRI

�� SANDY CREEK RD, QUORROBOLONG

Located on 200 acres of bushland, just 15 minutes from the region’s best wineries, Hunter Valley Hotel Academy features king, queen or twin beds, ensuites, TV and complimentary non-alcoholic minibar, with conferencing facilities onsite. Rover Coach pick-up and return for concerts available.

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.

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

�� HERMITAGE RD, POKOLBIN T 02 6574 7229

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

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T 02 4998 7685 E info@woolshedhill.com.au woolshedhill.com.au

T 02 4936 0341 E hunter.hvha@tafensw.edu.au hunter.tafensw.edu.au/CareerAreas/FSH/Pages/ Accommodation.aspx

CAPERS GUESTHOUSE � COTTAGE �� WOLLOMBI RD, WOLLOMBI

T 02 4998 3211 E stay@capers.com.au capers.com.au For those wishing to experience a delightful mix of luxury accommodation with full service and stunning views, Capers is a sanctuary of comfort, peace and privacy for a handful of guests. Also available is the self-contained Capers Cottage for up to eight guests.

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

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ACCOMMODATION MOTELS • BED & BREAKFASTS • CARAVAN PARKS

WINE COUNTRY MOTOR INN

BRILEX PARK B�B

� DARWIN ST, CESSNOCK

�� LEGGETTS DR, MOUNT VINCENT

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.

Located in Mount Vincent, midway between the Hunter Valley and Lake Macquarie, this comfortable B&B consists of a three-bedroom, self-contained cottage for up to eight guests with continental breakfast provided. The B&B has a ‘one group at one time’ policy, so you’ll have the place to yourself.

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

M 0438 505 045 E brilexparkbnb@bigpond.com brilexparkbnb.com.au

ACTIVE HOLIDAYS BIG4 HUNTER VALLEY 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.

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

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

Perfect Hunter Valley family holiday • • • • • •

Resort style pool with spa and lap pool Camp kitchen with woodfired pizza oven Powered caravan and camping sites Jumping cushion On-site Thai restaurant Pets welcome (sites)

conditions apply

137 Mount View Road, Cessnock NSW 2325 Tel 1800 649 156 | Email huntervalley@ahp.com.au www.ahp.com.au/huntervalley

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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.

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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

PHONE

PAGE

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

2GoodReasons

Newcastle

02 4962 1855

N/A

Beveridge’s Menswear

88 Vincent St, Cessnock

02 4990 1310

N/A

MAP 2 D4

Fuse Gallery Hair. Skin. Body

89 Vincent St, Cessnock

02 4991 4247

142

MAP 2 C3

Helen Hising Marriage Celebrant

Hunter Valley

0417 677 668

N/A

Hunter Valley Resort

Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7777

142

MAP 1 F2

Hunter Wedding Ceremonies

Hunter Valley

0418 637 890

N/A

Jason Thomas Marriage Celebrant

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

0409 337 000

N/A

MAP 1 J6

Maree Callaghan – Hunter Marriage Celebrant

80 Caledonia St, Kearsley

02 4990 4917

N/A

MAP 1 Q13

Maree Garvey Celebrant

333 Palmers Ln, Pokolbin

0428 277 276

N/A

Margan Winery & Restaurant

1238 Milbrodale Rd, Broke

02 6579 1372

142

MAP 1 I0

Mindaribba Weddings

532 Tocal Rd, Mindaribba

0417 290 224

N/A

MAP 1 E15

Photography on Hermitage

10 Bowen St, Branxton

02 4938 3547

N/A

MAP 1 B9

Prestige Wedding & Event Hire

13 Ace Cres, Tuggerah

02 4353 4599

142

N/A

Restaurant Cuvée

@ Peterson House, cnr Broke Rd & Wine Country Dr, Pokolbin

02 4998 7881

142

MAP 1 J9

Rouge Beauty

139 Vincent St, Cessnock

02 4990 6539

N/A

MAP 1 D3

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

St Patrick’s of Nulkaba

Cnr Wine Country Dr & Kerlew St, Nulkaba

02 4991 2555

N/A

MAP 1 N11

Studio Valentine Photography

4B Pinchen St, Nulkaba

02 4991 4400

N/A

MAP 1 N11

Tuscany Wine Estate Resort

Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin

02 4998 7200

142

MAP 1 F2

Wine Country Wedding Venues

Peppers Creek, Roche Estate & Mount Pleasant Estate, Pokolbin

02 4998 7780

142

MAP 1 J4, J6, N5

MAP

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.

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WEDDINGS

FUSE GALLERY HAIR. SKIN. BODY

HUNTER VALLEY RESORT

MARGAN WINERY & RESTAURANT

CNR HERMITAGE RD � MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

1238 MILBRODALE RD, BROKE

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 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.

PRESTIGE WEDDING � EVENT HIRE

RESTAURANT CUVÉE

TUSCANY WINE ESTATE RESORT

�� ACE CRES, TUGGERAH

@ PETERSON HOUSE, CNR BROKE RD � WINE COUNTRY DR, POKOLBIN

CNR HERMITAGE RD & MISTLETOE LN, POKOLBIN

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

Restaurant Cuvée is an award-winning wedding venue with a beautiful sandstone building and sweeping vineyard views providing an ideal backdrop for your reception. Whether it’s a small, intimate wedding or a larger wedding of 140, the experienced staff can tailor a package that will suit any dream. Daily, evenings

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

�� VINCENT ST, CESSNOCK T 02 4991 4247

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

T 02 4353 4599 E mp@prestigepartyhire.com.au prestigepartyhire.com.au

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

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

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

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

Book accommodation and tours online winecountry.com.au Like us – HunterValleyWineCountry Follow us – @huntervalleywc Watch us – Huntervalleywc Download the free Hunter Valley Official Guide iPhone app and discover more

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WINE COUNTRY WEDDING VENUES

T 02 4998 7780 E love@winecountryweddings.com.au winecountryweddings.net.au Weddings @ Peppers Creek, Roche Estate, Mount Pleasant… three unique Hunter Valley wedding venues. Each venue has it all – ceremony and reception in the one place with the vineyards your backdrop. Peppers Creek offers Tuscan sandstone and timber, Mount Pleasant country charm or modern elegance of Roche Estate. Daily, by appointment

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Cellar Door - Vineyard - Picnic and Barbecue area / facilities Sample our superb wines Group and mini bus bookings are welcome

WOLLOMBI

WINES

Lower Hunter Valley

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

www.wollombiwines.com.au

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Services. ESSENTIALS TO COVER ALL YOUR NEEDS.

NAME

ADDRESS

PHONE

Airport – Newcastle

1 Williamtown Dr, Williamtown

02 4928 9800

Bespoke Hunter

Hunter Valley

0418 148 283

N/A

Council – Cessnock

62–78 Vincent St, Cessnock

02 4993 4300

MAP 2 C4

Council – Singleton

Cnr Queen St & Civic Ave, Singleton

02 6578 7290

MAP 4 A4

EMERGENCY – Ambulance, Fire & Police

MAP N/A

000

N/A N/A

Everest Team Events

Hunter Valley

1300 434 512

H Events

Unit 5, 522-524 High St, Maitland

02 4934 8138

N/A

HOSPITAL – Cessnock

View St, Cessnock

02 4991 0555

MAP 2 A1

HOSPITAL – Singleton

Dangar Rd, Singleton

02 6571 9222

MAP 4 C5

Hospitality Recruitment Solutions

Newcastle & Hunter Valley

02 4961 2971

N/A

Hunter Valley Events

Hunter Valley

02 4933 5400

N/A

Mai-Wel Limited

115A South St, Telarah

02 4932 8599

N/A

Newspaper – The Advertiser

155 Vincent St, Cessnock

02 4990 1244

MAP 2 D3

Pharmacy – Pokolbin Village Pharmacy

Shop 13, Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin

02 4998 6677

MAP 1 J5

Pinnacle Team Events

Hunter Valley

02 4962 5034

MAP 1 K5

Sally Sneddon Graphic Design

12 Yilen Cl, Beresfield

02 4088 7032

N/A

Saywells Chartered Accountants

12 Vincent St, Cessnock

02 4990 9766

N/A

Sheer Design

Maitland

02 4933 9000

MAP 1 N11

Sparkd Events & Marketing Communications

Hunter Valley

0410 477 774

N/A

TAXI – Cessnock Radio Cabs

52 Cumberland St, Nulkaba

02 4990 1111

MAP 2 E5

TAXI – Singleton Taxico

15 Mary St, Singleton

02 6572 1133

MAP 1 B0

Thrill Team Events

Hunter Valley

02 9630 2222

N/A

Visitor Information – Hunter Valley

455 Wine Country Dr, Pokolbin

02 4993 6700

MAP1 K10

Visitor Information – Maitland

Cnr New England Hwy & High St, Maitland

02 4931 2800

MAP 1 K10

Visitor Information – Newcastle

@ The Maritime Centre, 3 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle

1800 654 558

N/A

Visitor Information – Singleton

Townhead Park, New England Hwy, Singleton

1800 499 888

MAP 4 D5

BIG-NAME ACTS from rock legend bruce springsteen to swedish pop - rockers roxette ,

the hunter valley plays host to some of the world ’ s biggest acts .

Recent star performers also include The Rolling Stones, The Eagles, Sting & Paul Simon, Jimmy Barnes, Fleetwood Mac, Bernard Fanning, Alicia Keys, Leonard Cohen, Lionel Richie, John Farnham, Hunters & Collectors, Daryl Braithwaite, Ian ‘Mossy’ Moss, Richard Clapton and country music favourites Toby Keith and Lee Kernaghan.

Visit winecountry.com.au to find out who’s headlining in 2016 and book your tickets.

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Bringing the old vines back old vines back to Bringing their formerthe glory.

to their former glory.

Wynwood Estate- 310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin 2320

P: (02) 4998 7885 cellar@wynwoodestate.com.au www.wynwoodestate.com.au Wynwood Estate- 310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin 2320

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