The No.1 magazine for visitors to Hunter Valley Wine Country | AUGUST 2019 | ISSUE #170
The Big Red ISSUE HIGH TEA IN THE HUNTER
TIM MCGRAW HEADLINER
HONOURING OUR PIT PONIES
FINE SPIRITS AT HUNTER DISTILLERY
the main stage
bens · saf u R e ay · lime cord ia h T lld ats · eves kar iale a he ch t
yda d a · o r r a s y k n el the harvest stage
ER · YAHTZEL KIL9T ·T 9 · SIPPY ORI LEVE LO’
T LUXE · KEYES T LEX DE
SATURDAY 19TH OCTOBER 2019 HOPE ESTATE, HUNTER VALLEY
TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM MOSHTIX.COM.AU
IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH...
A WORD FROM THE EDITORS
AUGUST PUBLISHED BY: WCP Media ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: PH +61 2 4943 2888 www.yourhuntervalley.com.au enquiries@wcpmedia.com.au WCP MEDIA Level 1, 216 Pacific Hwy, Charlestown, NSW 2290 AUGUST 2019 Copyright © 2019 WCP Media Published monthly by WCP Media All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpt granted by written request only. While every attempt has been made, WCP Media cannot guarantee the legality, completeness or accuracy of the information presented and accepts no warranty or responsibility for such. SPECIAL OFFERS AVAILABLE From 1st August 2019 until the 31st August 2019 inclusive, or while stocks last.
Home to some of the oldest vines and biggest names in Australian wine, the Hunter Valley is a mecca for lovers of quality wines renowned for their thoroughly unique and distinctive style and ageing ability. This month we celebrate the distinctively divine red wines of the Hunter Valley in this, our annual Big Red issue. You’ll find tips on cellaring red wine, airing red wine, drinking red wine, all the red-wine varieties our region is famous for and of course – some of our top red picks as well. If it’s red – you’ll find it in this issue! Elegant, decadent and steeped in tradition, there’s nothing quite like sitting down for a sumptuous high tea. These days the high tea remains a cherished ritual to be shared among family and friends and has become a popular option for baby showers, hen’s parties, Mother’s Day and other special occasions. Spring is just around the corner and the perfect time for a High Tea in the Hunter Valley. Read more on page 20. Lemon myrtle vodka. Turkish delight liqueur. Magical, colour-changing gin. These aren’t the kinds
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Enjoy!
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What’s in this
11 14
of spirits you’ll find at your everyday bottle shop – but you will find them (and plenty more) at a little place called Hunter Distillery. This month we spoke to Neil Langdon about this burgeoning business and learn why it’s the essential stop on the ‘wine trail’ for spirit lovers. With the warmer weather comes concert season in the Hunter Valley and the recently announced Tim McGraw headliner will light up the stage early in October (although tickets are on sale now so don’t miss out). This month we spoke with the worldwide country music superstar to find out what's in store. This is the last of our Winter issues, and as we go to press, we are starting to enjoy days filled with sunshine and higher than average temperatures that will soon result in budburst. Bring it on!
Issue?
What's on in August & September
4
Hot in the Hunter
12
Artfully Customised Bikes By Millfield Velo 15 The Big Red – Red Wines of the Hunter Valley 16 High Tea in the Hunter 20 Country Music Star Tim McGraw 22 An Essential Stop on the "Wine" Trail 24
27
Big Reds Wine Feature 30 Winter Dining Guide
Your Hunter Valley Map
34
Honouring the Pit Ponies
36 38
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What's
ON Events not to miss in the Hunter Valley Region
FIND THE LATEST EVENTS ONLINE AT YOURHUNTERVALLEY.COM.AU
AUGUST AUGUST
Markets
Broke Village Market At McNamara Park AUGUST 4
Handmade in The Hunter Markets At Kevin Sobels Wines AUGUST 10 + 24
Dalwood Markets At Dalwood Estate AUGUST 10
HV Gourmet Market First Creek Wines AUGUST 17
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Beer and BBQ Festival
Stonehurst Wedding Open Day
SAT 3 + SUN 4 AUG Head to Hope Estate for two big days of all things BBQ and beer – two of Australia’s favourite pastimes! You’ll be able to wash down all that BBQ goodness with over 40 amazing craft beers and ciders, enjoy beer masterclasses, competitions, wine tasting, plus browse an array of stalls, displays and demonstrations. See the great Steak Cookoff on the Saturday, and the Australasian BBQ Alliance Championship on the Sunday. Kids are welcome with a Kids Zone to keep them occupied, plus a big range of dining options and BBQ food vendors. Whether you are a serious foodie, an aspiring brewer or just somebody there for the food and beer, the weekend will have something for all ages! Ticket options start at $10 kids and $39 adults, varying from single day entry to 2-day entry and addons. Visit www.hopeestate.com.au
SUN 4 AUG Looking for your perfect wedding venue? Why not check out Stonehurst Cedar Creek! Visit Stonehurst from 11am–2pm to meet their friendly Wedding Team, sample premium organic wines, check out various Hunter Valley vendors, all while taking a stroll around the venue to find your perfect spot. This event is sure to inspire, with 20 of their most loved vendors in one place – the perfect day out for you and your tribe. If you love what you see, book your 2020 wedding before the end of September to go in the running to win free venue hire at Stonehurst valued up to $7000! For more details or to register (for free), visit www.stonehurst.com.au
Hope Estate
Stonehurst, Cedar Creek
The Amazing Graze
Discover the variety and quality of goods grown, made and crafted by Hunter Valley artisans
Two Fat Blokes
SUN 4 AUG Your grazing board and bottomless-wine-glass dreams will come true if you are lucky enough to attend the Amazing Graze! Known for their gourmet foodie products, you are guaranteed Two Fat Blokes will satisfy your tastebuds at this delectable event. If there are any tickets left by the time we go to print, you'll find them at twofatblokes.redzy.com
S M T W T F S
9am ~ 3pm at Kevin Sobels Wines Cnr Broke Road & Halls Road Pokolbin
For weather cancellations visit: www.facebook.com/handmadehuntermarkets
Cork and Fork Lamb-B-Q
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT TODAY! Ph 0415 044 321
De Iuliis Winery
SAT 10 AUG De Iuliis are known for doing things a little different, and the third installment of what has been a butchery-themed series of wine lunches will be just as fun as the previous events. This year's festival-style celebration is all about lamb. The event will be a 5.5 hour affair, including a sit down feast, live music, bottomless wine and butchery workshops for those keen to learn a thing or two. The event runs from 11am– 4.30pm, with the cost $125
A unique, open cockpit adventure flight experience!
members, $150 non-members and $25 for kids under 12. Addon transfers from Newcastle, Cessnock and Pokolbin are also available. If you're lucky there will be spots left – if not, join the wait list or put it in the diary for next year! Visit www.dewine.com.au
VINTAGE AIRCRAFT MUSEUM Open Thurs to Mon 10am till 3pm, free entry! Cessnock Airport, Pokolbin
Present this voucher to recieve 20% off! Terms and Conditions apply.
www.huntervalleyjoyflights.com.au
Hunter Valley
Newcastle Wind Orchestra Sisters of Mercy Convent, Singleton
SAT 10 AUG The Newcastle Wind Orchestra, conducted by Mr Ian Cook, will present a concert for both young and old in the stunning Sisters’ Chapel this month. Newcastle playwright Carl Caulfield and Ghillian Sullivan will narrate the stories, in a performance of Animal Tales: The Pied Piper of Hamelin and Henry Lawson’s The Loaded Dog. Kids will be able to sit down the front (BYO cushion) to be close to the action – plus come dressed as your favourite mouse, you never know where the Pied Piper might lead you! Tickets are $25 adults, $10 school student, $5 preschoolers and $60 family; these include a delicious Conventmade afternoon tea. Book ahead at www.trybooking. com/501825 or at the door from 1.30pm (2pm start).
Wine Country’s Native Wildlife Sanctury Lovedale’s Hill Top Farm Stay Spectacular Valley Views Trail Rides for Beginners and Experienced Riders Bring Dad for Fathers Day September 1st! Personalised Rides • Marriage Proposals • Weddings on Horseback Pony Rides • Family Rides • Sunset Rides • Picnic Rides • BBQ Tractor Hay Rides to Feed the Farm Animals Peddle Go Karts for Ages 5 – 99 Years Ask About our ATV Tours to the Top of the Range
For Bookings Phone Margaret on 4930 7111 or 0417 233 008 Stay & Play at Hilltop 288 Talga Road, Lovedale So close to all of Wine Country’s attractions, yet you feel a million miles away..
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Aroma Coffee & Chocolate Festival
Riverside Carpark, Maitland SAT 10 + SUN 11 AUG Ward off the Winter chill with this year's Maitland Aroma. Surround yourself in all things coffee and chocolate as local chocolatiers, baristas and even winemakers work together to indulge your tastebuds and warm the soul! There will be plenty of activities available to complete your day, including market stalls, children’s activities, demonstrations, wine and food tastings and local live music – this is definitely one for the whole family. To find out more information including parking information, visit www.maitlandaroma.com.au
Cranky Handle Rally
Richmond Vale Railway Museum SAT 17 + SUN 18 AUG The Hunter Valley Vintage Farm Machinery Club and Richmond Vale Railway Museum are combining once again for the 4th annual Cranky Handle Rally – a demonstration of everything to do with early machinery, engines and tractors. Maitland Steam will also have a steam train engine display over the weekend, and train rides on Marjorie (pictured) are included in the entry cost – this is very popular with kids! For those interested, you can also hop onto one of the guided tours of the museum to see how the mine operated pre1970's. Food and refreshments will be available on the day. To find out more information visit www.richmondvalerailwaymuseum.org
My Brilliant Divorce
Cessnock Performing Arts Centre TUES 27 AUG My Brilliant Divorce sees star Mandi Lodge with award winning director Denny Lawrence combining their talents in an achingly funny story. Angela seeks to ‘take charge’ and take on the world after a divorce that she was the last to see coming. A skillfully tackled, funny, contemporary story with heart, this topic is highly relevant to Aussie audiences with 1 in 3 marriages ending in divorce. The West End Production of the show starred Dawn French, and was nominated for a coveted Olivier Award as Best Entertainment. This show is recommended for audiences 15+. Visit the Cessnock Performing Arts Centre website for tickets.
Come in and try our multi-award winning Gin, Vodka, Liqueurs and Schnapps!
OPEN FOR TASTINGS AND SALES
7 Days, 10am - 5pm 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley PH (02) 4998 6737 • info@hunterdistillery.com.au www.hunterdistillery.com.au yhv 6 | AUGUST 2019
Vegan Long Lunch Tamburlaine Estate
H U N T ER VA L L E Y G A R DENS PRESENTS
SAT 24 AUG Calling all Vegans! (Or just anyone who loves food…) Tamburlaine is happy to be hosting another Vegan Long Lunch. Your ticket includes five courses paired perfectly with Tamburlaine wines, which are also vegan. Tickets are $110 for members and $120 for nonmembers, to book, email thelodge@tamburlaine.com.au
70 DAYS OF SPECTACULAR EVENTS TO INSPIRE, AMAZE & DELIGHT! STARTING 1ST SEPTEMBER 2019
The Class of ’59: The Rock & Roll Circus Tour 2019
Cessnock Performing Arts Centre SAT 31 AUG Celebrate all the hits and legacies of original Rock N’ Roll – Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Bill Haley, Jerry Lee Lewis and the Big Bopper – in what will be a two hour concert production including a live rock and roll band. Let them take you back to an era when rock and roll influenced the way people dressed, hairstyles, language and love.
This short-lived musical movement has lasted in the hearts and souls of many – see it re-created on stage in a show that will have you jiving the night away. Visit the Cessnock Performing Arts Centre website for tickets.
SPRING TIME IN THE GARDEN 1ST - 30TH SEPT
360 ALLSTARS AND MORE! SEPT 27 TH - OCT 14TH, 2019 Located at Calais Estate.
On the verandah or inside by the fireplace, the Verandah Restaurant is the ultimate in dining for those who enjoy great contemporary food served tapas style. NEW TRADING HOURS
ROSE SPECTACULAR OCT 12TH - NOV 10TH, 2019
Visit hvg.com.au to learn more.
Thurs 12pm–3pm Fri 12pm–4pm; 6pm–Late Sat 12pm–4pm; 6pm–Late Sun 12pm–4pm; 6pm–Late Mon 12pm–3pm
(02) 4998 7231 bookings@verandahrestaurant.com.au
www.verandahrestaurant.com.au
02 4998 4000 - Broke Rd Pokolbin - hvg.com.au Admission charges apply. Program subject to change. Some activities may not open in adverse weather conditions and for unscheduled maintenance. Terms and conditions of entry apply. *Rides are user pay and height restrictions apply.
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Markets
SEPTEMBER Spring Awakening Cessnock TAFE Grounds
Broke Village Market
FRI 6 SEPT Welcoming Spring once again is the luminescent Spring Awakening, promising to be back bigger and better than ever. From 6pm–9pm, festival goers will be able to warm themselves up amongst the flaming sculptures and interactive installations, enjoy live entertainment and roving performers, and eat from one of the many food trucks. There will also be kids activities and the annual lantern parade, with the Cessnock Performing Arts Centre selling lantern kits, available now until the event ($5).
At McNamara Park SEPTEMBER 1
Handmade in The Hunter Markets At Kevin Sobels Wines SEPTEMBER 14 + 28
Dalwood Markets
Broke Village Fair + Vintage Car Display
At Dalwood Estate SEPTEMBER 14
At McNamara Park, Broke
SUN 8 SEPT Join the Broke community at the annual Village Fair! Bring the whole family to McNamara Park for over 60 market stalls, food trucks, whip cracking, music, bush poetry, tug-o-war, rocker car racing and the much anticipated Vintage Car Display. This display will showcase hundreds of vintage and classic cars, motorbikes, trucks and vintage farm machinery. Kids will be kept busy with rides, the animal display and lasertag. Free mine tours to Bulga Open Cut mine will also operate between 10am and 1.30pm, suitable for the whole family. The Fair runs from 9am–3pm, with gold coin donation entry.
Sunday Muster Mortels Thornton SEPTEMBER 15
HV Gourmet Market First Creek Wines SEPTEMBER 21
Introducing the Hunter Valley's SPECIALISING IN QUALITY AUSTRALIAN ALPACA FASHION, HOMEWARES & ACCESORIES OPEN 7 Days 10am - 5pm
Peppers Creek on Broke Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, Pokolbin
PH 4998 6669 • www.australianalpaca.com
Luxuriously soft lightweight and warm
SEPT
Much more than a Vineyard.
The Lad y in
Pin k
...
POKOLBIN ESTATE VIN EYARD
Tempranillo | Nebbiolo | Sangiovese | Nebbiolo Rosé Get your taste for adventure today at ...Pokolbin Estate. Winery – 2019 James Halliday Australian Wine Companion
Pokolbin Estate Vineyard 298 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin | Open 7 Days 9am - 5pm PH 4998 7524 | www.pokolbinestate.com.au
yhv 8 | AUGUST 2019
Our Matilda range is made up of easy drinking styles that are produced for your enjoyment.
Come Waltzing with Matilda... 205 Gillards Road, Pokolbin • PH 4998 7887 www.constableestate.com.au
End2End Festival Pokolbin
SAT 14 SEPT End2End is one of the ultimate ways to enjoy a day out in the Hunter Valley with 4 iconic
venues, 20 amazing wineries, gourmet food supplied by the best and fun live music! Hop on and off the End2End shuttle bus at any of the four venues throughout the day – Ben Ean, Draytons, Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort or Blaxland Inn. You'll be spoilt for choice with selected wineries at each, as well as boutique beer, a range of food and fun masterclasses. This year the live music includes ABBAsback, GenR8, Pat vs Cat, Live Baby Live (INXS) and The Ultimate Pink Show. So grab the crew and get ready for an amazing Spring day out! Tickets are from $48.95, visit www.end2end.com.au
Spring Cruiz-In Hunter Valley Gardens
SUN 15 SEPT If you love to show off your vehicle or just love looking at them (dreaming) then head to the Spring Cruiz-In! This event features all vehicles from veteran, vintage, hot rods and classics; to kombis, modern, bikes and trucks. There will be heaps to see and do including exhibits, kids activities, stalls, plus live music by All Access 80's. For vehicle entry get there at 9am (gold coin entry), with
HUNTER VALLEY
CHEESE FACTORY
CHEESEMAKING CLASSES The Craft and the Art of Making Cheese at Home Discover Specialty Cheesemaking under the guidance and expertise of Artisan Cheesemaker David Bower and Affinuer & Fromagier Rosalia Lambert in an educational 2.5 hour workshop.
no registration required. Take advantage of the Garden's 2-for-1 entry! www.hvg.com.au
You will learn the process from start to finish, plus cheese origins, ingredients, ripening principles, milk quality, ageing and more in a Cheese Tasting Appreciation and Wine Matching session. Your cheese will be yours to take home, along with recipes to enjoy with family and friends.
2019 DATES: September 29th, 1.30pm – 4pm December 8th, 1.30pm – 4pm All Workshops are held Sunday afternoons, bookings required. Private Classes for 10+ by arrangement.
Contact us for more information or to book!
Tuff Trucks Milbrodale
FRI 20–SUN 22 SEPT The Tough Dog Tuff Truck Challenge (TTC) is the Hunter Valley's three day hardcore 4WD competition event. Gruelling and a test of endurance, the TTC is a real test for competing teams, pushing them and their vehicles to the absolute limit. To take out the annual Tough Truck Trophy, all types of terrain must be conquered including boulders, rock, mud, giant tyres, deep holes and ruts. The event features lots of exhibitors in the 4wd expo, complete with industry experts and the opportunity to grab a bargain. This is an event for the whole family with onsite food vendors and activities to keep the kids busy. Camping is available – check out all the ticket options at www.tufftruck.com.au
ARTISAN AUSTRALIAN CHEESEMAKERS Located at Mcguigan Wine Complex, 447 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7744 E contact@huntervalleycheese.com.au
www.huntervalleycheese.com.au
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360 Allstars Echoes of Pink Floyd
Cessnock Performing Arts Centre SAT 21 SEPT Celebrating the 40th anniversary of Pink Floyd's The Wall, Australia's largest concept tribute band Echoes of Pink Floyd will be taking the entire record on the road, along with an encore of other greatest hits. The Wall was Pink Floyd's best-selling 11th studio album, released in 1979. The show will take audiences on a journey, into the complex, multi-layered themes within the album. Audiences will not only experience a breathtaking performance, but a deeper understanding of composer Roger Waters' motivation in his writing. Visit the CPAC website for tickets.
Leogate Estate Long Lunch vocoTM Kirkton Park
SAT 28 SEPT Set against the beautiful gardens, beneath a canopy of trees at the picturesque vocoTM Kirkton Park, spend a lazy afternoon with friends and family wining and dining at the third of their exclusive long lunch series. Enjoy shared platters of seasonal Hunter Valley produce, followed by a mouth-watering 3 course banquet paired with wines from Leogate Estate. There is a dress code for this one to celebrate the start of Spring – white! Tickets are $95 pp. Visit huntervalley. vocohotels.com/local-events
Hunter Valley Gardens 27 SEPT–14 OCT In what will be an amazing physical performance, 360 Allstars boasts a stellar cast including World Champion breakdancers, the cyr wheel World Record holder, an X-Factor winning beatboxer, and an award-winning percussionist. It's a supercharged urban circus! www.hvg.com.au
Oktoberfest Two Fat Blokes
SAT 28 SEPT If a German celebration isn't a reason to come to the Hunter Valley, we don't know what is. Two Fat Blokes, connoisseurs of gourmet food in the Hunter Valley, are throwing a very special Oktoberfest event – complete with 1L steins (which you also get to keep) and food platters filled with kransky, schnitzel, plus more. Live music will keep the good times going, and additional craft beers are of course available to purchase – your first beer is included in the ticket price. This 3 hour event runs from midday. Tickets are $75 and will sell out. To purchase, visit twofatblokes.rezdy.com
Tintilla Tuscan Long Lunch Tintilla Estate
SAT 28 SEPT Once again, olive specialists and award winning wine producers Tintilla Estate will have a their popular Tuscan Long Lunch in September. The event includes a 4 course meal with Tintilla wines to match, perfect for a group outing in the vineyards in celebration of Spring and the warmer weather. The cost is $105 pp, or $95 pp for club members. Bookings are essential as numbers are limited. Email info@tintilla.com.au or phone 6574 7093. For more information visit www.tintilla.com.au
Enjoy a night out at the new Harrigan’s Hunter Valley. ALL NEW BISTRO, BAR, OUTDOOR DINING, SPORTS BAR AND VIP LOUNGE. Centrally located to many of the Hunter’s favourite attractions and offering great casual dining options including affordable kids meals, Harrigan’s is ideal stop for the family on your next visit. Come in today and see what is new at Harrigan’s!
For details visit harrigans.com.au or call 4998 4300 to make a booking
yhv 10 | AUGUST 2019
Broke Road Pokolbin
Your always welcome at...
Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant
Goodbye Winter...
HELLO SPRING! For generations, communities the world over have come together to celebrate the end of winter and the beginning of spring. Cessnock is no exception, with the annual Spring Awakening festival back for another year! Spring Awakening is back in 2019 bigger, bolder – and brighter – than ever before. Immerse yourself in an illuminated wonderland and experience a night of fire and light with family and friends. The celebration of the arrival of spring will be held on Friday 6 September from 6pm to 9pm at the Cessnock TAFE Grounds. Festival-goers will be able to warm themselves among flaming sculptures and be intrigued by interactive installations. There’ll be live entertainment on the main stage, along with roving performers, creative activities for kids, and surprises for the whole family! Pack a picnic or select a delicious treat from one of the hand-picked gourmet food trucks and soak up the atmosphere. For a number of years now an integral part of the festivities has been the ever-growing lantern parade. The parade acts as the official commencement of the evening’s festivities, departing from Cessnock Performing Arts Centre at 5:30pm and continuing in a dazzling procession via Vincent Street all the way to the TAFE grounds. Put your creative hat on and get into the spirit by decorating your own lantern (or get the kids together for an afternoon of crafting) the team at CPAC have some great paper lantern kits just waiting to be turned into wondrous creations for sale. The kits include a lantern and an LED candle to illuminate them come parade time, all for just $5. All they’ll need is a splash of colourful paint, a dash of sparkly glitter, or a sash of brightly coloured crepe paper to bring them to life. In the lead up to the festival, Cessnock Library and Kurri Kurri Library will also be hosting free lantern-making workshops with all materials supplied. Please be advised that Spring Awakening is strictly an alcohol-free event. Spring Awakening is an initiative of Cessnock City Council, designed and developed by Cessnock Performing Arts Centre. Get into the spirit of the festival and use the hashtag #SA19Cessnock to share your photos of the event on Instagram and Facebook! For more information visit www.cessnockperformingartscentre.com.au
There is nothing quite like a fes�ve sushi pla�er to impress your guests. It tastes healthy, light and delicious. A favourite dining experience for locals and visitors alike. Always fresh... Always vibrant Open 7 days for lunch and dinner. Takeaway available every day.
J A P A N E S E T H A I C U I S I N E
Roche Estate, Hunter Valley Corner of Broke Rd & Mcdonald Rd’s Pokolbin, NSW 2320 PH 02 4998 7051 www.oishii.com.au
/OishiiPokolbin
Morpeth Antique Centre Discover 25 dealers
and The Servant’s Quarters Tearoom, all under one roof. All things Ancient, Antique, Vintage, Retro, Heirloom, Collectable.
OPEN 10am – 5pm, Thursday to Sunday and long weekend public holiday Mondays 175 Swan Street, Morpeth, Hunter Valley PH 02 4933 1407 E info@morpethgallery.com www.morpethantiquecentre.com
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WHAT'S HOT IN THE
Hunter VI S I T
EDITORS PICK
AUGUS
T
An Unforgettable
Tasting Experience Nestled deep within the Hunter Valley, Mount Pleasant is the perfect spot to enjoy award-winning wines with a stunning backdrop of the Brokenback Range. Their passionate Cellar Door team provide an unforgettable tasting experience – take a seat on the patio and savour the stunning outlook onto some of the oldest blocks in the Hunter Valley, or settle by the fire with a glass of wine while the team guide you through their winemaking style and philosophy. If you're after more, Estate Tours are available from 10:30am daily. The cost is $5 per person Monday to Friday, or free on weekends (bookings essential). WHERE 401 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7505 www.mountpleasantwines.com.au
For the Sweet Tooth Calling all lolly lovers! The British Lolly Shop is the ultimate place for everything sweet in the Hunter Valley, stocking the largest range of imported English confectionary. It’s stacked with a range of quality confectionery and gourmet products from the UK, with nine varieties of bonbons as well as lemon sherbets, humbugs, Blackpool Rock, toffee, Choo Choo bars and more. They also have snacks and biscuits galore with Walkers, Monster Munch and their gourmet range of Paxo Stuffing, Yorkshire Pudding mix, everyone’s favourites Jaffa cakes and a range of teas just to name a few. The British Lolly Shop has all your old favourites so pop in and discover a world of sweets! WHERE Shop 1, HVG Shopping Village Broke Road, Pokolbin OPEN 7 days, 10am–5pm www.thebritishlollyshop.com.au
Mortels Sheepskin Factory • Home Of The Big UGG Boots • Factory Tours • Shop • Café • Museum MORTELS SHEEPSKIN FACTORY 1 Weakleys Drive, Thornton NSW Phone (+61) 02 4966 0990 Since 1958
www.mortels.com.au
yhv 12 | AUGUST 2019
Retail store also at: 4/305 Hillsborough Road, Warners Bay NSW Check website for store hours.
TA STE
BURGERS & BEERS If eating a delicious, mouth-watering burger then washing it down with a delicious cold beer is your idea of heaven, then Harrigans Irish Pub can turn this into a reality with their Thursday Burger and Beer Night. You can grab a delicious burger and a pint of beer from their large selection of beers on tap, for only $22. Plus, Harrigan’s Irish Pub has a new look, with the opening of their new bar, bistro, VIP Lounge, outdoor area, burger bar and outdoor dining terrace to experience. See you there! WHERE Harrigans Irish Pub, Broke Road, Pokolbin OPEN 7 Days; Dinner from 5:30pm–9pm PH 4998 4300 E enquiries@harrigans.com.au www.harrigans.com.au
EV E NT S
Impress Your Guests! Choosing your wedding venue is one of the most important decisions when planning your dream day. The Great Cask Hall at Hope Estate is one of the most impressive Barrel Rooms in the country and one of the Hunter Valley’s most popular venue destinations. It’s surrounded by 59 enormous wine filled casks, each holding 4,500 litres of wine. These casks, along with the terracotta flooring and huge vaulted ceilings, give the room an ambience of baroque splendour. The Great Cask Hall would be an amazing canvas for your dream wedding reception – if you have any enquiries don't hesitate to contact the events team. WHERE 2213 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4993 3555 E info@hopeestate.com.au www.hopeestate.com.au
Hunter Valley Resort Corner Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin (02) 49987777 sales@HunterResort.com.au www.HunterResort.com.au
13 | AUGUST 2019 yhv
Faulty Towers – The Dining Experience
It’s all Happening at
Tamburlaine!
Tamburlaine Organic Wines is a firm favourite for both locals and visitors, and with an upcoming events calendar set to keep their team on their toes serving up the very best of live comedy and fabulous food, The Lodge at Tamburlaine Organic Wines is sure to become your favourite venue too! Events will likely sell out – so don’t delay, book your tickets and get ready for a whole lot of fun!
Brought to you by Interactive Theatre International, this made-inAustralia globetrotting show is truly quite legendary, selling out in places like Sydney Opera House, Raffles Singapore and London’s West End. For its 20th birthday year of touring, the show now comes to The Lodge at Tamburlaine Organic Wines. Basil, Sybil and Manuel are back to dish up yet more laughs and a three-course meal in this hilarious globetrotting show. It’s an irresistible blend of top-flight improvisation and completely original theatrical script, where chaos reigns right from the start and audiences become part of the action. Be warned – it’ll sell out here too, so early booking is essential! WHEN Thursday 17 October – 7pm for 7.30pm seating. WHERE The Lodge at Tamburlaine Organic Wines COST $100PP for dinner and 3-hour show (fixed menu) BOOKINGS Email thelodge@tamburlaine.com.au
Austen Tayshus – Dinner and Show
Back by popular demand, travelling gourmet chef, Matt Dillow, is ready to present to you a delectable menu of his favourite Vegan dishes with complementary wine pairings from Chief Winemaker, Mark Davidson. Whether you are a carnivore, vegetarian or vegan, this is a food and wine experience that is not to be missed.
There are few comics in the world with the tenacity and killer instinct of Austen Tayshus, and in November the laughs continue at Tamburlaine Organic Wines. This comedy superstar has the ability to take a room hostage, just with his tongue. Every show is unique. He weaves current politics, what’s happening in the room, philosophy, sociology, anthropology, semantics, religion and of course, sport and let’s not forget the Pope into the one gag. Austen Tayshus is an Australian Comedy legend having performed over 10,000 shows in nightclubs, universities, comedy clubs, pubs and theatres throughout Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, USA, Fiji and Bali.
WHEN Saturday 24 August – 12pm for 12.30pm seating. WHERE The Lodge at Tamburlaine Organic Wines COST $120pp for members and their guests | $130pp for non-members BOOKINGS www.tamburlaine.com.au/pages/vegan-long-lunch
WHEN Saturday, 23rd November 2019 – Canapés 6:15pm for 7pm start WHERE The Lodge at Tamburlaine Organic Wines COST $100 per person for dinner and show BOOKINGS Email thelodge@tamburlaine.com.au
Vegan Long Lunch – A plant-based extravaganza for the tastebuds!
Vegan Vegan Long Long Lunch Lunch
Austen Tayshus
What What a season at
Tamburlaine ‘Lodge’! Vegan Vegan Long Long Lunch
Saturday, Saturday, 24th 24th August August 2019 2019 $130 per person for 4 $130 per person for 4 courses courses and and wines wines
Austen Austen Tayshus Tayshus -- Dinner Dinner & Show Saturday, Saturday, 23rd 23rd November November 2019 2019 $100 $100 per per person person for for dinner dinner & & show show
bookings bookings essential: essential: thelodge@tamburlaine.com.au thelodge@tamburlaine.com.au
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‘The Lodge’ at Tamburlaine
Meet the Maker
Artfully Customised Bikes By Millfield Velo WORDS Michelle Meehan
Steve Whitby’s love of bicycles runs deep. Forty years after he first started building and repairing his own bikes the Millfield man is still out in the shed tinkering away, turning his passion into a profession to build and re-engineer vintage bikes with modern components. “I’ve been building and repairing my own bikes since I was a kid. Forty years later they still fascinate me – a simple machine that delivers so much efficiency from so few components,” Steve said. “About ten years ago, I started picking up discarded bikes from the side of the road or buying them cheap on Gumtree and would fix them and either sell them or give them to charity. “It was something to keep me busy, but it’s been a slippery slope; in 2010 I had one bike, now I have about 20! “I started Millfield Velo in 2017, to catalyse my process and focus on what I do best. There are so many different kinds of cycling that I couldn’t cover it all with a one-man operation, and my quality was suffering. I now focus on a very high-quality (and expensive) product – European steel road bikes from the 80's and 90's.” The Handmade in the Hunter Markets stallholder believes vintage bikes are an art form, and he loves transforming them into head-turning custom designs for his clients. “Most of my customers already have two or three bikes. They come to me for something artful and custom, often in a particular colour, or a specific brand or model. They want to ride something beautiful, or known as a classic model,” he said.
The appeal of vintage bikes for me lies in their artform. Vintage bikes are simple and elegant. “I restored a Ferrari to go in a man-cave last year, and I’m currently building a second bike for a customer in Perth – he’s a school principal who is building a collection of famous bikes, and he rides them all. “I can also recreate a treasured bike from a customer’s past. The bike they owned as a teenager, for example, or a bike painted in the colour of their first car. “The appeal of vintage bikes for me lies in their artform. Vintage bikes are simple and elegant, and with some re-engineering, I fit them with modern components to make them amazing to ride and easy to maintain. Plus they turn heads wherever they go, and that’s nice too.” You can check out some of Millfield Velo’s handiwork and have a chat with Steve at this month’s Handmade in the Hunter Markets, which will be held at Kevin Sobels Wines on August 10 and 24 from 9am to 3pm.
• Largest range of wine glasses in the Hunter Valley • Hand painted Hunter Valley souvenir wine/shot glasses • Various artworks • Amusing collector teapots • Amazing selection of glass platters, vases & ornaments • Beautiful seasonal scarves • Wonderful jewellery, handbags & interesting giftware • Aboriginal products • Hunter Valley T-Shirts • Great range of Australian souvenirs Come and see our colourful eclectic products & experience our helpful,
Wine Glass Gallery Because great wine deserves a great wine glass
friendly Hunter Valley Service! Shop 3, Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village Phone 4998 6888 • Open 7 Days
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The Big
RED
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Red Wines of the Hunter Valley The world of red wines is an adventurous, rich and wonderful world filled with everything from the subtlety of a big Australian Shiraz or South African Pinotage to the softness of a French Merlot or the truly excellent Mediterranean varietals of Sangiovese and Nebbiolo. Home to some of the oldest vines and biggest names in Australian wine, the Hunter Valley is a mecca for lovers of quality wines renown for their thoroughly unique and distinctive style and ageing ability and crafted in this region for over 180 years. Here you can find a diversity of red wines just perfect for those looking for something different.
Shiraz – Australia's favourite red variety Shiraz is by far Australia's most important red variety and is tremendously flexible in its ability to adapt to virtually any combination of climate and soil. The Shiraz grape is said to originate from the Rhone wine-growing area of France but is now grown throughout the world and used primarily to produce powerful red wines which can be either varietal or blended. Shiraz is the Hunters premium red variety and the most widely planted grape variety in Australia – representing 40% of the total red grape crush and constitutes one-fifth of all wine grape production in Australia. The typical young Hunter Valley Shiraz is a medium-bodied wine showing red and dark berries, spices and a great deal of tannin. However, its real character is seen in wines with longevity. With age, the wines become a far more complex, full-bodied, yet smooth and richly flavoured wine with some earthy tones.
Cabernet Sauvignon wines can be medium to full-bodied, typically leafy with ripe cassis like flavours, well-structured and elegant and powerfully aromatic. The bouquet can be rich with fruity notes of black cherries and currants, herby notes of peppers and olives and spicy notes of ginger. Typically, this wine features naturally high levels of tannin, but barrel ageing allows for slow oxidation to reduce these levels and infuse the wine with its flavours.
Pinot Noir – The most romantic of wines Pinot Noir wines have been one of the strongest performing wines over the last four to five years and considered by some to be the next "wine fashion". With its origins in France, the Pinot Noir grape is a light-skinned, aromatic grape and one of the oldest grape varieties to be cultivated to make wine. While widely considered to produce some of the finest wines in the world, it is just as well recognised for being a difficult variety to cultivate. Pinot Noir is very sensitive to wind and frost, cropping levels and soil types and requires optimum growing conditions made up of warm days followed by cool evenings. Pinot Noir is also highly reflective of its terroir (more so than other black grape varieties), with different wine growing regions producing very different wines which makes vineyard site selection an important factor. Described as "the most romantic of wines" due to its sensuous and gratifying perfume, the wine tends to be light to medium in body with a broad range of textures and flavours, including a variety of complex (Continued next page) ►
Cabernet Sauvignon – The world's most loved red wine Cabernet Sauvignon is the world's most recognised red grape variety famous for its ability to age for decades at a time. This classic red variety of Bordeaux is second only to Shiraz in importance in Australia. Despite its prominence in the world of wine, the grape is a relatively new variety being the product of a chance crossing between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc sometime during the 17th century in southwestern France.
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(Continued) aromas reminiscent of black or red cherry, raspberry, currant and blackberry.
Merlot – The most pleasurable wine experience Merlot originates from Bordeaux in France, where it is often used to produce some of the world's most famous and most expensive wines. In Australia Merlot is considered to be one of the most important red grape varieties – coming in third after Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. Merlot is renowned for its wonderfully fruity, well rounded, even fleshy character and is grown in just about every wine growing region of Australia. The summer heat of the Hunter is considered to provide the ideal growing conditions for this versatile grape variety. In recent years, Hunter Valley Merlot has experienced a surge in popularity and is often considered to be more robust than other well-regarded varieties with a rich bouquet providing one of the most pleasurable wine experiences.
Tempranillo Wine – One to watch Tempranillo (from the Spanish Temprano, meaning early) is a premium grape variety originating in the Rioja region of Spain where it is considered the ''backbone'' of the wines of the Rioja and the Ribera del Duero regions in Northern and Central Spain. In these regions, it is often blended with varieties such as Graciano, Grenache and to a lesser extent Cabernet Sauvignon. Tempranillo wine is now being made in many wine regions throughout Australia – including the Hunter Valley and is said to be challenging Sangiovese as the up and coming red wine varietal in Australia. What makes this variety so exciting is that it is an easy-drinking, medium to full-bodied wine with lower acidity and full fruit flavour that
matches well with a wide range of foods. The wine itself is ruby red in colour, while the aroma and flavours can have characteristic of plum, cherry, strawberry and herb mixed with an earthiness. In Australia, Tempranillo is less frequently bottled as a single varietal and being low in both acidity and sugar content is most commonly blended with Grenache and Shiraz (Syrah).
Petit Verdot – A majestic wine The bold-yet-floral expression of Petit Verdot is something that all red wine enthusiasts should have the opportunity to try. Originally from the Bordeaux region of France, it is most often used in the region's famous red blends to add a dark violet colour, sturdier tannins and concentrated fruit flavours. In Australia Petit Verdot is being planted in warmer climates such as the Hunter Valley where it produces full-bodied wines with concentrated flavours and integrated tannins. Here ripening on the vine is not such a problem and while still used in blends, it is increasingly bottled as a single varietal stand-alone wine. As a stand-alone varietal, it produces deeply coloured wines with violet aromas blueberry fruit and firm, structural tannins. The characters to look for in these exciting new wines are its intense colour, the wonderful fragrant nose, firm tannins and rich, vibrant flavours of blueberry – making it a good choice for true red wine drinkers.
Chambourcin – Unique in so many ways Chambourcin is a relatively new purple-skinned French - American hybrid grape that produces deep-coloured light to medium-bodied wines with a full aromatic flavour. It can be made into a dry style or one with a moderate residual sugar level, giving it a pleasant sweetness. ►
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VI SI T OU R C ELL A R DOOR Established in 1921 by legendary winemaker, Maurice O’Shea – Mount Pleasant is one of the great wine estates of Australia. Enjoy a true Hunter Valley wine tasting experience or simply take in the beautiful surrounds with a glass of wine and a cheese platter. OPEN 7 DAYS, 10AM – 4PM | ESTATE TOURS RUN DAILY AT 11AM — $5PP ON WEEKDAYS, FREE ON WEEKENDS 401 MARROWBONE ROAD POKOLBIN NSW 2320 | (02) 4998 7505 | MOUNTPLEASANTWINES.COM.AU
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RUNNING HORSE WINES The most unique cellar door in Broke... A must visit! Specialising in Aged Wines
In Australia, the grape did not show up until the late 1970's and is now a widely used variety with an intense dark colour that has now also led winemakers to use it to improve the depth of blended red wines without sacrificing the fruit quality of the main variety (e.g., Shiraz). Some producers use the variety for sparkling reds, and it is also used successfully for Port-style wines. Because this variety is especially resistant to fungal diseases, Chambourcin is a variety that succeeds wonderfully in the Hunter Valley climate and is also most at home in the more humid regions of Coastal NSW and Queensland who all experience wet summers. Chambourcin wines have a lovely, deep red colour. Most are big and fruity with a lot of raspberries, plums, prunes and even cranberries on the palate. It is not as heavy or robust as Shiraz or Cabernet Sauvignon, which can make it quite attractive to people who generally don't like red wine. Chambourcin wines also respond well to being oaked, a treatment which can produce vanilla or mocha flavours in the wine.
Sangiovese - The pride of Tuscany Sangiovese is the most-planted red grape in Italy and is the most important grape variety used in the production of Tuscany's greatest red wines. This star amongst Italian wine grape varieties is now making its mark in Australia where it has become increasingly popular over the last few decades. The variety also has a reputation for being adaptable to many types of vineyard soils and as such is considered suitable for cultivation in several Australian wine regions – such as the Hunter Valley where it is fast gaining popularity, although vineyard area remains small. The variety produces elegant medium-bodied wines with powerful aromas and with moderate to high natural acidity. The characteristic flavours are cherries, tomatoes, herbs, spices and tea-like flavours. Australian Sangiovese wines tend to be a little fruitier, with riper flavours and higher alcohol. Is there a variety you are yet to try? Explore the Hunter Valley and you're sure to find something to your taste. What are you waiting for! ■
Running Horse Wines cellar door provides a new look and experience to the Hunter wine region. We at Running Horse Wines have been ageing our entire range of wines and have amassed an impressive, unique and true age worthy wine list that will take you on an adventurous ride to an unprecedented tasting experience. The opportunity to taste and buy wines from 2005 to 2012, and also now just releasing the 2014 vintage, is very rare. Our classic aged range is comprising of the Hunter’s finest Shiraz, Semillon, Verdelho, Rosé and a Sparkling Rosé also being aged on lees for 6 years! Running Horse Wines is open every day from 10am to 6pm. From Monday to Thursday, please do not hesitate to call and confirm arrival as these hours can fluctuate.
1133 Milbrodale Road, Broke Fordwich PH David on 0474 156 786 www.runninghorsewines.com.au 19 | AUGUST 2019 yhv
Restaurant 88 Photo Credit: David Hill, Deep Hill Media
High Tea
in the Hunter!
WORDS Michelle Meehan
Elegant, decadent and steeped in tradition, there’s nothing quite like sitting down for a sumptuous high tea. The origins of high tea, or afternoon tea as it is known in the UK, reportedly date back to 1840 when Anna Russell, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, decided to take tea and cake in the privacy of her room one afternoon because the long stretch of time between lunch and the late evening meal left her with a “sinking feeling” in her stomach. The afternoon meal became a social occasion as the Duchess began to invite friends to join her for a spot of tea and a chat, and was soon a widespread practice among the upper and middle classes in England. These days the high tea remains a cherished ritual to be shared among family and friends and has become a popular option for baby showers, hen’s parties, Mother’s Day and other special occasions. But there’s much more to high tea in the Hunter than just cucumber sandwiches and a cup of Earl Grey, with local venues combining all the classics with a host of new gourmet favourites. We take a look at just a few of the tempting high tea menus on offer across the region.
Hunters Quarter
A relaxed and elegant dining destination located in the Cockfighters Ghost Vineyard in Pokolbin, Hunters Quarter offers a contemporary menu to enjoy from the private terrace, picturesquely positioned amongst the vines. They offer two high tea menus for groups of 10 or more, with seven days’ notice required. The Grand High Tea offers a variety of finger sandwiches alongside caramelised onion and feta tarts, with the sweet selection including Chocolate Mousse Petit Crème.
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Stump up for the more expensive Premium High Tea, and you’ll get an additional two styles of savoury tartlets to try, as well as an expanded sweet offering with five different tempting treats, including Torched Lemon Meringue Tarts. Bottomless cups of tea and coffee will help wash everything down or try one of their refreshing homemade iced teas.
Restaurant Eighty Eight
With the lush grounds of The Convent providing an elegant and romantic backdrop, there’s no better place to settle in for an afternoon of high tea than Pokolbin’s Restaurant Eighty Eight. Their modern high tea features gourmet tea sandwiches including the classic egg, cucumber and spinach, the rich smoked salmon, avocado and watercress and the light and tasty tomato, fetta and rocket. A delicious looking range of petite treats provide plenty for those with a sweet tooth to savour, such as the delicately constructed macaroons, and the light and fluffy angel scones, a traditional favourite served with decadent Chantilly cream, house-made jam and fresh berries. Choose from a wide selection of coffees and Premium French handcrafted teas including English Breakfast, Earl Grey, peppermint, lemongrass and ginger, green tea, Darjeeling and chamomile, or step up to the London High Tea or Paris High Tea to add some bubbles to the mix, with a glass of Sparkling Wine or Champagne on offer respectively.
Briar Ridge
This Mount View vineyard may be off the beaten track, but it’s well worth a visit for its relaxed, friendly atmosphere and the stunning natural backdrop of mountain views, lush vineyards and tranquil gardens. While Briar Ridge doesn’t have an on-site restaurant, it does have a special high tea experience as part of the suite of Bridal Experiences on offer at the vineyard.
Hunter's Quarter
Groups with a minimum of four people can celebrate the upcoming nuptials in style with a delicious high tea catered by Bistro Molines, accompanied by a glass of Briar Ridge Signature Sparkling wine.
voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley
High tea seems the perfect pastime to enjoy in the midst of this elegant Colonial-style property. Luxuriously refurbished in recent years, voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley is a charmingly different destination renowned for its quality, service and world-class dining experiences. A sparkling soirée with all the trimmings, Kirkton Parks’ exclusive high tea is served in their sun-filled Conservatory, with tranquil views of the rose garden and glimpses of the Brokenback Ranges cascading in the distance. Offering “something sweet”, “something savoury” and “something hot”, you can sample petit tarts, French pastries, fresh scones and finger sandwiches made from regional ingredients. Local smoked trout with crème Fraiche and blinis is an exquisite choice, while mozzarella, shiitake and spinach arancini and mini meringues with lemon curd are among the other delectable options. Paired with a soft fruity and crisp bubbly or a glass of the premium Peterson Gateway Sparkling wine, the stylish high tea at voco Kirkton Park is perfect in any season and for any occasion.
V INE YARD
Bout ique Hunt e r W in e s
Gemelli Estate
On the outskirts of Pokolbin, you’ll find this peaceful family-owned and operated estate, surrounded by 30-year-old Chardonnay, Merlot and Muscat vines. With kangaroos bounding past your door and birds chirping in the trees, Gemelli Estate on Palmers Lane is the perfect place to laze away the afternoon, whether you’re enjoying a glass of wine and a cheese platter or one of their monthly high teas. Able to be enjoyed surrounded by the flourishing garden or in the gallery, the high tea comes with a glass of wine of your choice from the boutique estate, as well as a selection of sweet and savoury delights.
But Wait There's More...
A number of other venues hold seasonal high teas throughout the year, including Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, which in the past has put on Harry Potter, Easter and magic-themed high teas for kids, while Estate Tuscany held a Mad Hatters Tea Party within their spectacular grounds as part of the Hunter Food and Wine Festival in June. If you’re looking to travel further afield, Maitland and surrounds are home to several high tea experiences, held everywhere from the aptly named Ducks in the Field at Duckenfield, to the magnificent and historic Mansfield House, where private high teas can be arranged amid the grand features and lavish Victorian architecture.
2018 Vintage Release New releases crafted from hand-picked select fruit from an outstanding vintage. These wines represent the very best of our vineyard. Matured in seasoned French oak, the reds include our first ever Shiraz-Tempranillo blend and a Shiraz from just four very special barrels! Drink now or cellar.
2 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin Cellar Door open for tastings 7 days 10am - 4pm Phone 4991 5456 www.kelmanvineyard.com.au
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Discovering his ‘True’ Calling
Country Music Star Tim McGraw WORDS Claire Bradshaw Sixteen number one albums. Over 40 industry awards. More than 50 million records sold. These are some big numbers for a Louisiana kid who once thought he was destined to be an athlete or a lawyer. But after picking up a guitar for the first time in college, Tim McGraw set himself on the path to becoming a worldwide country music superstar – a path he continues to walk today, more than 25 years after first stepping onto the scene. Hunter country music fans will be flocking in droves to Hope Estate later this year, with Tim McGraw’s headline show hitting Wine Country on Friday 4th October. It’s been a long time between visits for Tim; his last Australian concerts were way back in 2012 with his wife, fellow country artist Faith Hill. But he’s looking forward to returning, lauding his Aussie audiences as “some of the loudest and most loyal music fans in the world”. “The thing about Aussies that has impressed me every time I’ve played there is certainly their knowledge of the music – knowing the lyrics and enjoying the music and having a great time but also really
Emma’s Cottage Vineyard · CELLAR DOOR Fri 12pm–5pm, Sat 10am–5pm & Sun 10am–4pm 438 Wilderness Road, Lovedale 2320 · Ph (02) 4998 7734 · www.emmascottage.com.au
Take a left at Cloud 9, you can’t miss us. A haven of relaxation, beauty and healing, our Day Spa offers over 50 therapies and treatments all designed to nourish your body, mind and spirit.
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feeling the music. As an artist, when you see an audience – especially an audience that’s not in America – that digs in and really feels what you’re saying, feels the music and really has a connection... That’s something pretty special,” says Tim. Playing to sold-out crowds that know every word to his songs was the furthest thing from a teenage Tim McGraw’s mind. He’d always been more sporty than musical growing up (though he has always had a love of country music, nurtured by his music-fan mum and ‘cowboy’ stepdad). He took to baseball in particular, starting college on a baseball scholarship and assuming that was where his future lay, but his real calling made itself known when he finally picked up a guitar. He began performing at small venues in the late 1980s, playing country covers and some of his own material. Friends and family encouraged him to move to Nashville, the home of country music in the US, but doubt initially held him back. “The thing about moving to Nashville and being a part of millions of people who want to do this for a living… You think in the back of your mind that those people were told since they were a toddler to be a musician and to do this,” he reflects. “You never think you’ll have a shot.” But one day, after a conversation with his mum, Tim finally decided to take the leap, packing up his belongings and joining the world’s biggest country music community. It was a move that changed his life. He signed with his first record label, releasing his first singles and debut album in the early 90s. But it wasn’t until 1994 that he really hit the big time, with his second record becoming the best-selling country album of that year. It’s been a wildly successful ride since then – a quarter of a century later, he’s still at the top of his game and has cemented his position as one of the biggest country music stars in the world. So what can Hunter Valley audiences expect when they see Tim at Hope Estate in October? All the old favourites, of course, but perhaps some fresh material as well… “You’ll hear some new stuff,” he confirms. “We’ll play some new things from the album we’re working on. I think
the new album is the best collection of songs on a solo album that I’ve ever had – it’s my favourite record so far.” There’s a range of packages available for the Hope Estate show, giving McGraw fans the chance to have the ultimate concert experience. From hamper and VIP Deck packages through to Brewhouse Cocktail Party and Signature Dinner invites, there’s something for every tier of country music fan. As well as the man himself, the show will feature sets from support acts Midland and Travis Collins, so it’s sure to be a jam-packed, high-energy night, celebrating the best the genre has to offer. Event packages can be purchased for the show on Friday, 4th October through the Hope Estate website (www.hopeestate.com.au), and tickets are also available through Ticketek.
AN ESSENTIAL STOP ON THE ‘WINE’ TRAIL FOR
Spirit Lovers! WORDS Claire Bradshaw
Lemon myrtle vodka. Turkish delight liqueur. Magical, colour-changing gin. These aren’t the kinds of spirits you’ll find at your everyday bottle shop – but you will find them (and plenty more) at a little place called Hunter Distillery. For those who like to branch out with their evening tipple, or who are keen to try their hand at making interesting cocktails at home, Hunter Distillery is a dream destination. Starting as a licenced backyard project back in the early 2000's, the Distillery began its journey with the production of just five vodkas. Dubbed Valli Vodkas, these limited-edition spirits were originally produced in small quantities for the wholesale market. But the name rose to prominence after Valli Vodkas began bringing in international recognition, winning gold in the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition and silver at the London International Wine and Spirit Competition. After such success, it was a natural decision to expand into a state-of-the-art distillery, tucked away amidst the wineries along Broke Road in Pokolbin. Since opening to the public in 2012, the Distillery has expanded in size, scope and offering. The original Valli Vodkas
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paved the way for the premium organic vodka range the Distillery is now renowned for, and various gins, liqueurs and schnapps have been added to the mix. “It’s grown dramatically,” says Neil Langdon, Hunter Distillery’s Sales and Customer Relations Manager. “It’s gone from just the five vodkas to now five gins, about ten vodkas, about 15 liqueurs and schnapps, and some other specialty spirits. We started off with just one tasting bar; we’re now up to two very big public tasting bars and two group-booking tasting bars. And we’re still growing.” For anyone looking to break up a wine tour with something a little different, the Distillery’s tasting bars are an essential stop. Not only will you sample a selection from the wide range of premium and flavoured spirits, but you’ll also get a sneak peek at the inner workings of the Distillery. “The tasting area is in the same building as the production area, so you can actually see the stills and the bottling line and everything from the tasting area,” Neil explains. From the moment you walk in for a $5 tasting experience, you’ll understand the Distillery’s unique appeal. The list of spirits available is extensive and often unusual (did someone say chilli schnapps? Caramel vodka? Choc-mint liqueur?). And when you finally decide what you’d like to try, your samples are offered not in glasses, but in test tubes. “It’s a unique thing that we do for a couple of reasons,” says Neil. “It’s a point of difference, but the main reason is that it is straight
Organic Wines
Great Tasting • Award Winning • Certified Organic
TASTE
PASSION
ASCELLA is the largest organic vineyard in the Hunter Valley. Barb and Geoff welcome you to enjoy tastings under the Silk Tree, or by the fireside or under the stars. Stay at the vineyard, enjoy the pristine environment, meander along the laneways. Listen to the greatest music since the world started to rock! We are committed to the health and well-being of our Ascella friends, partners, our vineyard family and to respecting the traditional caretakers of our land. Come Share the Passion! Open 7 days a week, from 10am to 5pm 203 Thompsons Rd Milbrodale, NSW 2330 Call or text 6574 5275 – 0431 357 105 www.ascellawines.com.au ● info@ascellawine.com
spirits, so this way you get to try a couple of flavours, and we stay within RSA guidelines!” The test-tube tasting experience isn’t the only thing that makes the venue distinctive. It’s also the only 100% organic distillery in the Hunter, and its processes are different from those of many other distilleries. “We make our own spirit,” Neil explains. “A lot of distilleries buy in the spirit and then make their products from that, but we actually make ours from scratch. We do the equivalent of five times distilling, so we’re able to remove a lot more of the nasty alcohols – there’s basically none of that burn that goes all the way down. It’s a very clean, polished spirit.” From the basic spirit, premium vodkas are made first, creating a smooth and clean product that’s continued to garner awards over the years. This is followed by the special flavoured products, which are created using an infusion process with essential oils and flavour extractions. Flavour creation is a balance of art and science – a new challenge for the Distillery team each time as they experiment with different materials and techniques. Some flavours are virtually an instant success, only needing minor tweaking after the first attempt; but, Neil reveals, “there are others which might be in the development stage off and on for 18 months to two years or more. We like to make sure that you’ve got a beautiful smell, fantastic taste and a great aftertaste.”
So what’s popular at the Distillery these days? Bestsellers like the Valli Vodka range and fruity or sweet liqueurs are always a hit, but gin is also currently having its moment for Hunter drinkers – particularly the enigmatically named ‘Mystery Gin’. Boasting (Continued next page) ►
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Pictured: A Hen's party enjoying a tasting. Bottom: Sales and Customer Relations Manager Neil Langdon.
The ColourChanging Gin MYSTERY GIN - RRP $70 A stunning colour-changing spirit. Vibrant purple/blue in colour, Mystery Gin changes to shades of pink with the addition of tonic water, making it great for cocktail mixing.
(Continued) an unusual vibrant-blue colour, Hunter Distillery’s Mystery Gin has a surprise twist in store when mixed with its best friend, tonic. “It uses a flower called the butterfly pea for its colour, which actually reacts with the citric acid in tonic water – so it will change colour and become more of a pink,” Neil explains. He points out that it’s unique in the flavour department as well, with a distinct sweetness and blood-orange overtone that endears it to gin fans and non-gin-drinkers alike. Hunter Distillery’s range of boutique products is only available online or at the Distillery itself. But if you find you just can’t get enough, you can also join the Spirit Club and receive a 15% discount on all purchases, including two six-packs of 500ml bottles delivered in May and November each year. You’ll also have exclusive first access to new products, and possibly even special events such as members’ nights down the track… Bottoms up, we say.
Mystery Gin is sweet and fruity to taste, with an overtone of blood orange. This Gin can be enjoyed neat, with tonic water (especially a dry tonic), and in fruit tingle style cocktails.
Shop online at www.hunterdistillery.com.au or pop in for a test-tube tasting at 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin. ■ (This article has been reproduced with the express permission of intouch Magazine www.intouchmagazine.com.au)
“Largest beer range
Massive Wine Sale at The Garden Cellars $50 cases and $144 cases available throughout August.
in the valley!”
Come in and visit the ‘Tunnel of Beer’. Stocked to the brim with delicious brews from around the world.
alley Hunter V nter u Wine, H odka V y r e Distill beer and craft able ail v a tastings ! y il a d
THE GARDEN
CELLARS yhv 26 | AUGUST 2019
You will find us at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village Broke Road, Pokolbin OPEN 7 DAYS 10am - 5.30pm | PH 4998 7466 www.gardencellars.com.au
Mixing it Up...
Wine Blends Blending wines of different varieties and vineyards has gone on for centuries, the goal being to make the whole greater than the sum of its parts. From Cabernet Merlots to Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, winemakers around the world are becoming more adventurous and innovative with their blending techniques – creating masterful and unique wine blends to entice the palate.
If there were any rules in the winemaking game, it’s becoming clear that they were made to be broken. Winemakers in the New World are increasingly creating daring blends from grapes not traditionally combined, creating new and exciting flavour and aroma profiles. Why? Wine blends can offer more complexity than single varietal wines. In fact, some of the world's greatest wines are made from a blend of grapes rather than a single varietal. Blended wines are some of the most complex and fascinating types of wines. They are the fruit salad of the wine world – a delicious mix of all the best bits of different varietals. Let’s face it without the five red varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Carmenère to play with, would Bordeaux have reached its exalted position in the wine world? And where would the Champagne region be without the trio of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier? At its most basic, winemakers blend wine made from different grapes to add more complexity to the flavour and texture of the wine. Both reds and whites can be made from blends of varietals. In some cases, they may even blend whites and reds to create the best possible combination of aromas and flavours. An example of this is blending Viognier with Shiraz – resulting in changes to the final colour intensity and flavour of the wine. Australian Shiraz makes a great blending partner, as it's ripe, open nature has many flavours and texture options. Many winemakers are now using Viognier with Shiraz. It seems to be a marketing plus to have "Shiraz Viognier" on the label, even if there is only a very small quantity of Viognier. These wines are often not strictly blends as they are made by a process called co-pigmentation. This brightens the colour of the wine, lifts and adds fragrance to the aroma and texture to the palate, and provides a roundness that makes the wine more approachable. In Australia, two main red grape varieties form the base of most red blends – Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon and these are often blended. Cabernet Sauvignon’s firm tannin structure ensures that it’s capable of producing wines with real potential to improve with cellaring and as a Shiraz partner is so popular that some of the greatest Australian wines
ever made are a blend of these two varieties. These wines are complex and robust, with incredible ageing potential. It’s no secret that Penfolds Grange – Australia's most collectable wine, is made predominantly from the Shiraz (Syrah) grape and usually a small percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon. Sangiovese is another wine that is often blended with Shiraz. The savoury nature of Sangiovese grape is enriched by the bold and robust nature of Shiraz, coming together to create a rich, complex and spicy wine. When it comes to blending, the possibility for combinations that result in a quality blend are endless. Here are six wine blends to try: Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot, Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Shiraz and Mataro, Shiraz Viognier.
Red Wine Blending Masterclass Unlock your inner winemaker at Gartelmann Wines with a Red Wine Blending Masterclass. Create your own Bordeaux inspired red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Learn about classic French and Australian red wine blends, how these wines are designed, and why we blend. A structured, informative and fun masterclass including a tasting of Gartelmann wines. Blending Masterclasses will be held throughout August – by appointment only by contacting the Cellar Door on 4930 7113. Classes are $35 per person (min 2 people, max 10 people) for a 45 minute Session.
27 | AUGUST 2019 yhv
The Future Looks BRIGHT
For Dashville
WORDS Claire Bradshaw
It’s been described as ‘three solid days of musical feasting and family nourishment’ and ‘Australia’s very own Cosmic Country Weekender’. But for Hunter Valley music fans and families alike, there’s one word that can probably best sum up Dashville Skyline: fun. The alt-country music and camping festival is held over the Labour Day long weekend at Dashville, a secluded bushland event venue in Lower Belford. The event has been run by musician Matt Johnston and his wife Jess since 2015, but they’d been organising and hosting music festivals for years before Skyline came into being. You may recognise the Dashville brand and venue from another popular annual music event: The Gum Ball. The first official festival to be held at Matt’s parents’ property back in 2004, The Gum Ball kicked off Dashville’s trademark laidback festival vibe – which led, ten years
later, to the birth of a brand-new venture for Matt and the growing Dashville team. “In 2014 we held the tenth Gum Ball, and around that time I’d been looking into ways we could take some of the best bits of how that festival works and create a similar event more focused around celebrating alternative country music, as personally, that’s something I’m passionate about,” Matt reflects. “We had a pretty strong brief from the start: to embrace the old with the new, and I think it’s really found a heart within those who enjoy this type of music and nostalgic culture.” With an annual lineup that also includes punk festival Thrashville and ‘all-day dinner party’ PigSty in July, Dashville’s event offerings have been steadily expanding in recent years. The venue has become a stop for several homegrown artists on tour, and a special event was held this July to raise funds for Support Act, a charity that assists musicians dealing with crisis. In January next year, there’ll even be a special Elton John tribute show. So what has made Dashville such a popular space for gigs, festivals and other events? “Our biggest virtue is in having our own purpose-built event site,” says Matt. “After fifteen years of festival-building, we’ve got lots of different spaces and infrastructure all in one place. Aside from those larger festivals, we love hosting smaller events and playing around with the spaces. At the moment we’re hosting an event at least one
olives, olives, olives Come visit us for a range of Estate Grown Olives, Tapenade and local olive oils or a Cheese platter on the deck with a glass of wine
725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley www.tintilla.com.au #tintillaestate yhv 28 | AUGUST 2019
Matt Johnston
Hunter Valley
Chocolate Company EST. 1999
weekend a month, and as summer rolls around, that’ll likely increase.” To say Matt and Jess have got their hands full with Dashville’s yearround event schedule is an understatement. But they love the work, and they’re grateful for their small but dedicated team and the support of the wider Dashville family. “It can get pretty full-on, juggling all the things, but you’ve got to have a passion for it,” Matt says. “Fortunately, we also have a big community of volunteers and staff who share the passion and put in weeks of work before these big events. Even some of our musical guests turn up well before the festival to get their hands-on experience.” Preparations for this year’s Skyline are well and truly underway. As always, the event’s primary goal is to provide a laidback camping weekend that celebrates alternative country music – its origins in 60's/70's America, the culture and nostalgia surrounding the genre, and the evolution that has led to its varying forms today. There’ll be a great mix of musical acts on the line-up, of course, plus Americana-inspired cuisine, markets, lawn games, a farmyard, activities for kids, and plenty more. The popular Sunset Super Round will also return: as night falls, artists will come together on the main stage to collaborate and pay homage to their favourite songwriters. “There’s really no other festival in the country where you can get this experience. We’re just going to continue building on the traditions we’ve created while adding in a few more bits and pieces as we evolve,” Matt says. “Two things we’re finally going to include this year are a live-to-air festival radio station and a musicians’ swap meet. We want to make the festival as interactive as possible for people of all levels of interest and ability.” Looking beyond Skyline and the rest of this year’s events, there are plenty of things on the cards for Dashville. Goals and aspirations range from further work on the venue’s permaculture and improvements to its skate ramp, right through to the establishment of a Dashville recording studio. “Of course, that’s besides continuing to be the host of the best boutique festivals in Australia,” Matt adds. All in all, the future looks bright for Dashville. It’s been a lot of hard work for Matt and the team so far, and no doubt there’s more of that to come, but in his eyes, it’s all been worth it. “I guess we’re a pretty good example of what happens when you chip away on something you believe in,” he muses. “Looking back, it’s been borderline insanity in some cases, but fortunately we’re still here, growing and evolving as a venue and music business. I’ve never really thought too much about what [life] could have been like otherwise. My wife Jess and I play music together and host these varying music events, and as long as we can manage our work-life balance, it’s all good.” Dashville Skyline runs from Friday, 4th October to Sunday, 6th October 2019 (Labour Day long weekend). Adult, pensioner, teenager and children’s tickets are available via www.dashville.com.au/skyline. (This article has been reproduced with the permission of intouch Magazine www.intouchmagazine.com.au)
Located in the heart of Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company has been a family owned and operated Hunter Valley gem for the last twenty years. Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience, with a tantalising range of premium hand-made chocolate and chocolate products plus more than 30 flavours of freshly made fudge!
Open 7 Days 9am – 5pm. Ph 4998 6999 Three Great Locations in Pokolbin: Twenty-3-Twenty – 2320 Broke Road Peterson House – Broke Road Hunter Valley Gardens – Shop 5, HVG, Broke Road
www.hvchocolate.com.au | admin@hvchocolate.com.au
WE BELIEVE IN THE SIMPLE THINGS IN LIFE. THEY JUST NEED TO BE AMAZING.
SMART CASUAL DINING FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE WEDDINGS | EVENTS | PRIVATE FUNCTIONS LOCATED ON THE VINE AT COCKFIGHTERS GHOST VINEYARD 576 DE BEYERS ROAD, POKOLBIN PH: 4998 7776| info@huntersquarter.com.au www.huntersquarter.com.au
OPEN LUNCH THURS - SUN. DINNER THURS, FRI, SAT & MON.
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PETERSONS WINES
2017 Back Block Shiraz RRP $120 The “Back Block” Shiraz is only produced in the very best years with exceptional fruit from a single parcel of 47 yr old vines located in front of the Petersons cellar door at Mount View. TASTING Stewed red and black fruits with hints of uncooked fruit cake mix, supported by nuances of cherry cola and red frog confectionary appear in the aromas. On the palate you'll find overly ripe raspberries and blackcurrant, cashew nut oak, with flavours lingering long after the wine is finished. FOOD MATCH Fillet mignon, venison pie with potato mash and fresh garden peas, smoked cheddar cheese. CELLARING 5 – 10 years. (Decant before consumption)
yhv 30 | AUGUST 2019
ASCELLA ORGANIC WINES
2017 Reserve Shiraz RRP $49 Ascella Organic Wines is the largest certified organic vineyard in the Hunter Valley. All of Ascella’s wines are made using only organic grapes from their secluded vineyard located in the pristine Broke Fordwich region, where they are committed to maintaining a balanced, chemical free and sustainable environment. TASTING Red fruit and plums with soft mocha palate. Fruit flavours of cherry and five spice. Dried herbs with intense fruit and delicate spicy oak. FOOD MATCH Beef, lamb, hard cheese, spicy stir fry. CELLARING 15 years.
ELBOURNE WINES
2017 H.A.E Single Vineyard Shiraz RRP $55 2017 was an outstanding Hunter vintage given the hot and dry conditions. Only 150 dozen cases of this high quality Shiraz were produced from single vineyard estate grown fruit. Hand pruned and handpicked to ensure exceptional quality. TASTING Intense black/purple colour, with ripe dark fruits and pepper on the nose. A well structured and balanced palate, with loads of spice and layers to complement the outstanding fruit weight. Framed magnificently with skillful use of high quality French oak barriques. A big red, from a big Hunter vintage! FOOD MATCH A perfect accompaniment to beef burgundy. CELLARING Drink now or cellar for 25+ years.
HANGING TREE WINES
2014 Limited Aged Shiraz RRP $80 Hanging Tree Wines' vines are more than 15 years old, with the Shiraz vines the oldest at 45-50 years of age. This, coupled with the rich clay soil has contributed to the success of their award winning wines. The 2014 Shiraz is made from the oldest vines on the property – a limited addition, there are only 50 cases left available of this wine, so you'd better get in quick. TASTING Deep plum in colour with a crimson hue. The palate is peppery and earthy with flavours of plum, blackberry, cherry and liquorice. FOOD MATCH Perfect with wagyu beef served with a red wine j�s and roast kipfler potatoes cooked in duck fat. CELLARING Drink now or up to 10 years.
LAMBLOCH ESTATE
2016 Cabernet Sauvignon RRP $35 When producing premium Cabernet Sauvignon choosing the perfect terroir plays a key role. Situated on the western slopes of the Great Dividing Range, Mudgee has some of the highest altitude vineyards in Australia. Cabernet Sauvignon grown in this region produce tremendous depth of colour, with pronounced tannin and well balanced acidity. TASTING Deep and rich in colour, showcasing robust flavours of plum and blackcurrant with subtle mint chocolate on the palate. This Cabernet provides excellent varietal character coupled with firm tannin and long lingering finish. FOOD MATCH A nice chargrilled steak, plus most of your wintery comfort dishes like a traditional roast dinner or good hearty stew. CELLARING Up to 15 years.
LUCY'S RUN WINES
Lucy's Run 2014 Shiraz RRP $70 ($60 club members) From Lucy's Run single vineyard grapes and made by Hunter legend David Hook, this Shiraz is a standout, collecting many accolades including Top Gold and two trophies at the 2016 Clear Image Hunter Valley Wine Show. TASTING Deep cherry red in colour, this wine has complex aromas of plums, aniseed, spice and flint. The palate is medium-bodied with blackberry fruit flavours and an interesting note of menthol, finishing with soft and drying tannins. FOOD MATCH Duck, venison, rib eye, boeuf bourguignon – this Shiraz will take on the challenge! CELLARING While always magnificent to drink now, this Shiraz will cellar well up to at least 2034.
KELMAN VINEYARD
Kelman Shiraz-Tempranillo 2018 RRP $24 Kelman's first ever blend of 60% Shiraz and 40% Tempranillo. The exceptional 2018 vintage enabled them to experiment with these two blends for a delicious foodfriendly wine. TASTING 10 months in seasoned French oak has produced a wonderfully textured wine that shows both red and blue fruits, and the key savoury spice characteristics of both varieties. Wonderful mouth feel, well balanced and silky smooth. FOOD MATCH Charcuterie, richer pasta dishes, duck, chicken and almost everything else on the dinner table! Particularly good with any Middle Eastern food style. CELLARING An outstanding wine for the next 10 years.
MISTLETOE WINES
2017 Grand Reserve Shiraz RRP $75 This wine is from the acclaimed 2017 Hunter Valley Vintage, a single vineyard wine harvested from the Mistletoe Home Vineyard. This is only the third wine to wear Mistletoe’s Grand Reserve label. This is a quintessential top Hunter Shiraz that shows how good Hunter Shiraz can be when all the pieces in the puzzle fall into place. TASTING This wine has amazing mid palate fruit and great length that combine to give this wine near perfect balance. FOOD MATCH Wonderful with rare roast rib of beef or chargrilled lamb chops. CELLARING A wine to enjoy for many decades to come. Drink now to 2040.
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ADINA VINEYARD & OLIVE GROVE
James Peter 2016 ‘The Cabernets’ RRP $40 A blend of our Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon; both matured in French and American oak barrels prior to blending. TASTING A smooth and beautifully balanced dry wine with blackberry and raspberry flavours. Bordeaux inspired, delicious drinking now but will age beautifully for up to 7 years. The problem is, can you keep it for that long! FOOD MATCH Pair with rich meats and vegetables or just drink it on its own. This wine does not need food to enhance its flavour. CELLARING Up to 7 years.
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MOUNT PLEASANT ESTATE
2017 Rosehill Vineyard Shiraz RRP $50 First planted in 1946 by Maurice O’Shea, the Rosehill vineyard is the epitome of the Hunter. Elegance and power, grace and intensity, these wines are beautiful young but have the backbone to survive for decades. It's from great vineyards that great wines are made. TASTING Red fruits, cranberry, violets and spice aromatics combine with a supple elegant mouthfeel with beautiful intensity and focus. FOOD MATCH Perfect to have with slow cooked lamb, aged beef or with some fine chocolate. CELLARING Drink now or will reward cellaring for 25 years.
TAMBURLAINE ORGANIC WINES
2018 Reserve Malbec RRP $44 Tamburlaine Organic Wines is Australia’s largest producer of organic wines – producing award winning organic wines from their Hunter Valley and Orange vineyards. This particular wine originates from the high altitude, biodynamic vineyard of Borenore in Orange. TASTING On the nose are black cherry, violet and raspberry aromas. On the palate you'll find ripe dark berries with a hint of spice, tobacco and cocoa. A smooth finish with gentle tannins will follow. FOOD MATCH Well matched to sirloin, filet mignon and porterhouse steak. Also pairs perfectly with chicken, turkey and roasted pork, beef and venison. Also wonderful with blue cheese. CELLARING Drink now or cellar for 7+ years, keep away from strong light, at a cool, constant temperature <15°.
RUNNING HORSE WINES
2011 Classic Aged Shiraz RRP $66 Located in the picturesque Broke Fordwich region, Running Horse Wines produce a range of quality aged wines from small select parcels of premium fruit grown on the property. TASTING A full bodied, aged classic Hunter Valley Shiraz, dark and vibrant magenta in colour with red hues. A typical spicy bouquet complements the smooth palate of cherries, blackberry and subtle mint, with silky tannins and hints of chocolate and vanilla from 18 months maturation in new French Oak. This superb Shiraz will age for many years. FOOD MATCH Enjoy with seared eye fillet of beef, grilled lamb or any game dishes. CELLARING Perfect to drink now or cellar for 15+ years.
WINE COUNTRY DRIVE NULKABA
BRASSERIE
BAR
BREWERY
Located at Gartelmann Wines. The Deck Café Lovedale provides a diverse and delightful menu complemented by Gartelmann Wines and Piazza Doro Coffee.
ACCOMMODATION
Open 7 Days for Breakfast and Lunch. Mon to Fri 8.30am till 3pm, Sat and Sun 8am till 3.30pm.
CONFERENCE
FUNCTIONS
WEDDINGS
Ph (02) 4991 7922 | www.pottershbr.com.au E info@pottershbr.com.au
www.deckcafelovedale.com.au
Closed until 8th August For an altogether sweet experience, a visit to Sabor Dessert Bar is a MUST! The Sabor Dessert Menu features over 50 different desserts, each one created individually. Nothing is served by the slice and this brings a new level of culinary delight to desserts in the Hunter Valley. Pair something scrumptious with a delicious Hunter Valley wine... It’s a unique Hunter Valley experience that you can only enjoy at Sabor Dessert Bar. Indulge in multi-award winning Portuguese chocolate mousse, decadent cakes, pastries, hand-made chocolates, Portuguese tarts and gourmet ice-cream. There is also a large range of gluten free desserts, barista-made Glinelli coffee and a selection of teas to enjoy with our amazing view of the vines and mountain ranges or to take away and savour in your home or hotel.
Enjoy a world of desserts at Sabor Dessert Bar in Pokolbin!
2342 Broke Rd, Pokolbin
Open Thurs & Fri 10am - 4.30pm, Sat 10am - 5.30pm, Sun & Mon 10am - 4.30pm
PH 1300 958 939 • www.sabordessertbar.com.au 33 | AUGUST 2019 yhv
Winter Dining Guide
CIRCA 1876 Set in the expansive acreage of the luxury boutique hotel The Convent Hunter Valley, and surrounded by rich produce filled kitchen gardens. Circa 1876 literally brings the 'paddock to plate' ethos to life as guests overlook the organic kitchen garden that their food came from just beyond their plate. 64 Halls Road Pokolbin, MAP REF L12 | PH 02 4998 4999 www.convent.com.au | reservations@convent.com.au OPEN Fri-Tues | Lunch from 12 noon | Dinner from 5.30pm
HUNTERS QUARTER Hunters Quarter (HQ) is a relaxed and elegant dining destination, located in the Cockfighters Ghost Vineyard of Pokolbin, in the heart of the picturesque Hunter Valley. A culinary dream come true at Hunters Quarter with something for every occasion. Image: Prawn and scampi dumplings. 576 De Beyers Road, Pokolbin, MAP REF N10 | PH 4998 7776 info@huntersquarter.com.au | www.huntersquarter.com.au OPEN Mon night, Thurs - Sun for lunch & Thurs - Sat for dinner.
ELEMENTS The title éléments is derived from the natural elements of fire, water and soil, components that resonate with the Hunter Valley region and are reflected in the entire restaurant experience. These basic elements and quality produce are transformed by our Executive Chef Michael Watson who has created a menu with an elements base, influenced by the flavours of France and Italy. Cnr of Broke & McDonalds Roads, Pokolbin, MAP REF K10 PH 02 4998 2000 | www.mercurehuntervalley.com.au Open 7 nights for à la carte dinner and weekends for café lunch
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THE WOOD RESTAURANT The Wood Restaurant opened its doors in December 2018 at Brokenwood Wines' state of the art new cellar door facility. With a seafood slant, the contemporary menu uses quality ingredients cooked simply with flair. Bookings highly recommended! Located at Brokenwood Wines, 401-427 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin, MAP REF L10 | PH 4993 1193 | Open 7 days for lunch from 11.30am and Friday and Saturday dinner from 6pm
ESCA BIMBADGEN Esca Bimbadgen showcases Bimbadgen wines by matching them with simple, elegant food in a jaw dropping setting. A pioneer of fine dining, Esca Bimbadgen exemplifies the unique nature of a winery restaurant. The spectacular entrance suspended above the winery is second only to the view from your table. 790 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin, MAP REF H12 | PH 4998 4666 esca@bimbadgen.com.au | www.bimbadgen.com.au/dining OPEN Sun to Thurs 12pm–3pm, Fri & Sat 12pm–3pm; 6pm–9pm
OISHII JAPANESE THAI RESTAURANT The name says it all... Delicious. Open daily, Oishii has become one of the most popular eateries in the epicentre of Hunter Valley wineries and concerts. The market fresh seafood Sushi and Sashimi followed by a rich Massaman Beef Curry and finished with fried ice cream - a house speciality, begs a return visit to taste their unique Prawn Tempura, Panang Duck Curry and Green Curry Chicken. Roche Estate, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rd’s Pokolbin, MAP REF L11 OPEN 7 Days Lunch, Dinner + T/A | PH 4998 7051 | www.oishii.com.au
Big Little Red “Lies” BLAXLAND INN Blaxland Inn offers a warm and country ambience with friendly staff and great value meals. Dine on the verandah all year round or inside by our open fire during Winter. With an outdoor campfire too, you can relax and unwind whilst enjoying a truly Australian experience. 2198 Broke Road, Pokolbin, MAP REF K12 | PH 4998 7550 info@blaxlandinn.com.au | www.blaxlandinn.com.au OPEN 7 days for Lunch & Dinner
Few areas of human consumption and enterprise are more weighed down with myth, exaggeration and misinformation than wine – so let’s dispel some of the myths! Always serve red wine at room temperature This is all well and good – but what exactly is ‘room temperature? This really just means do not serve chilled. But again, this depends on the wine being served. Some young, vibrant and early-drinking red wines benefit from being chilled for a few minutes – especially for summer drinking. Look for wines with little or no wood ageing – they should be as young as possible and low in alcohol. Varieties that can be great slightly chilled are Pinot Noir, Pinotage, Dolcetto and Grenache. You should only drink red wine with red meat Today, when it comes to pairing wine with food, there are no hard and fast rules. The old adage of “red wine with meat and white wine with white meat and fish,” while a useful guide, is no longer entirely relevant. These days, you are more likely to hear, “drink what you like, eat what you like.” Red wines typically pair well with red meat because meat stands up to the tannins, but you can also substitute red wines with rich, full-bodied whites.
RESTAURANT CUVEE Restaurant Cuvee located at Peterson House offers Modern Australian cuisine at its best. Our al-a-carte menu has been designed using fresh local produce – with seasonal menu changes, you will be sure to find something to please your palate. Cnr of Broke Road & Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin, MAP REF K14 PH 4998 7881 | cuvee@petersonhouse.com.au www.petersonhouse.com.au | OPEN 7 days Breakfast & Lunch
THE CELLAR RESTAURANT The iconic Cellar Restaurant located at Hunter Valley Gardens Village continues to provide Mediterranean style cuisine in a relaxed friendly environment. Here the chefs select the freshest, best quality ingredients to create seasonally inspired menus bursting with flavour. Bookings recommended! HVG Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin, MAP REF K10 | PH 4998 7584 www.the-cellar-restaurant.com.au | thecellar@bigpond.com Open Mon to Sat | Lunch from 12 noon | Dinner from 6PM
Opening a bottle of red wine an hour before you drink it allows the wine to open up or “breathe” One of the main reasons to decant wine is to expose a large part of the wine’s surface area to oxygen, which will help mellow a young wine’s tannins (this is particularly relevant to red wines which are higher in tannin than white wines). Merely uncorking a bottle and letting it sit on the counter for an hour before you pour it doesn’t do much in the way of exposing a large part of the wine’s surface area to oxygen. To allow the wine to “breath” and soften up, it needs to be poured into a decanter an hour before drinking. All red wines improve with age Not true. The truth is that most wine isn’t meant to age. Most wine is released within two years of being grapes in a vineyard and then drunk within six months of purchase - while they are young, aromatic, fruity and fresh. Quality, well-made wines often have the ability to age. Reds with high acidity and a good tannin structure tend to age well. The most obvious candidates for long-term ageing in the bottle are reds made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Shiraz and Nebbiolo. The more expensive the wine – the better the quality While in theory, this should be true – it often is not and should only be used as a guide to gauge quality rather than the rule. In reality, some wines are just overpriced. The trick is to find wines that you love for a price that also makes you smile!
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Pokolbin Estate M10 HV Cheese Factory L10 HV Chocolate Co. K10/K13/K14
GOURMET PRODUCE
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Blaxland Inn K12 Circa 1876 L11 éléments K10 Esca Bimbadgen G11 Harrigans Hunter Valley L9 Hunters Quarter M9 Ma�lda Bay Brewhouse F5 Oishii Japanese Thai L11 Restaurant Cuvee K14 Sabor Dessert Bar K13
9
RESTAURANTS +CAFÉS
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Handmade in the Hunter Markets K12
MARKETS
The Cellar Restaurant K10 The Deck Café F18 The Verandah Restaurant H12 The Wood Restaurant L10
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Mount Pleasant Wines P9 Petersons Wines R12, J13 Pokolbin Estate M10 Running Horse Wines J3 Tamburlaine Organic Wines M10 Tin�lla Estate E4 The Garden Cellars K10
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Adina Vineyard H17 Ascella Organic Wine I1 Constable Estate J9 Elbourne Wines P10 Emma’s Co�age Vineyard G14 Hanging Tree Wines O12 Hope Estate J11 Hunter Dis�llery K6 Kelman Vineyard Q14 Lambloch Estate K13 Lucys Run D12 Mistletoe Wines E4
PAY
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Aerohunter Adventure Flights L15 Balloon Alo� (Pickup Point) K14 Golden Door Health Retreat & Spa L9 Hunter Valley Adventure Centre – Segways, Horseriding, Electric Bikes F5 HV Horseriding & Adventures D17 Hunter Valley Gardens K10 Hunter Valley Joy Flights L15 Hunter Valley Wine Theatre F5 Hunter Valley Wine School F5 Morpeth Gallery C18
ACTIVITIES
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TO QUORROBOLONG
TO SYDNEY M1 PACIFIC MOTORWAY
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Australian Alpaca Barn K9/K10 Australian Alpaca Barn (Morpeth) B19 Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village K10 Morpeth An�que Centre (Morpeth) C18 Mortels B16 Pokolbin Village K11 The Garden Cellars K10 Wine Glass Gallery K10
SHOPS
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Take a look at the brand new Harrigan’s (L9)
CESSNOCK
ABERDARE ROAD
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Petersons Wines
Marrowbone Road
Kelman Vineyard
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Snow Time at HVG (K10)
Mount Pleasant Wines
O’Connors Road
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GREAT NORTH ROAD TO SYDNEY VIA PEATS RIDGE
Hope Estate Beer & BBQ Festival (J11)
Elbourne Wines
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Hanging Tree Wines
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37 | AUGUST 2019 yhv
STEP BACK IN TIME
Honouring The Tireless Contribution of the
Pit Ponies WORDS Michelle Meehan
They toiled tireless hundreds of metres below the ground to haul coal extracted from the region’s rich seams. Now some of the hardest workers in the South Maitland Coalfields will have their contributions to the mining industry honoured, with a life-sized statue of a pit horse set to be erected in Kurri Kurri’s Rotary Park. More than $100,000 has already been raised by the community for the project, and sculptor Brett Garling is well advanced on creating the bronze statue, which has now been expanded to include a pit horse, skip and wheeler as well. Work is expected to be completed by the end of 2019, with fundraising efforts continuing to enable the statue to be installed alongside the existing mineworker memorials. Originally proposed by a group of locals several years ago, the project is being coordinated with the help of Towns With Heart, a community-based economic development organisation known for its work on the Kurri Kurri Murals and Nostalgia Festival. Community Project Manager Lesley Morris said the project would also include an interpretive display designed to educate current and future generations about the important role pit horses played in the region’s mining industry until the introduction of modern technology in the mid-20th century. “We want to make sure future generations know the story of the pit horse and the very important role they had to play in the coal mines,” Ms Morris said. Hundreds of horses worked in the mines in the Northern District Coalfields of NSW from the early 1800s. Clydesdale crossed with thoroughbred mares produced the ideal 16 to 20-hand specimen, which was put to work in the mines from the age of four. Pit horses were broken in at a paddock resembling underground workings, pulling skips and snigging timber, with much time spent on ensuring the horses would obey voice commands and would not be flighty or headstrong.
yhv 38 | AUGUST 2019
The horses that worked in mines with tunnels came out every day after work, where they were cleaned and checked for injuries before being turned out into a paddock for the night. Mines with shafts, however, provided a very different working life for their horses, which descended into the depths of the mine on a Sunday and did not return above ground again until the following Friday. Historical notes on the Towns With Heart website paints a picture of what life must have been like for the horses at Richmond Main Colliery, the region’s second deepest mine at 900 feet. “They got used to descending two at a time in a double cage for 40 seconds. They soon adapted to the mine’s noise, smell and working conditions. Their work started Sunday 3pm; 100 to 120 removed from a grassy paddock to return to the colliery. They knew the way, while someone operated the gates. At pit bottom, a stableman checked them. They were fed, watered, then harnessed by 7am. Soon after, all the underground mineworkers arrived by cage 50 at a time. Each wheeler collected his horse. They brought two empty skips to four miners and collected two full skips. “Strata pressure affected Richmond Main more than all other pits on the Coalfields. When coal was removed, the floor rose in areas, and the ceiling lowered, making hazards for the horse. They became very nervous when the roof started moving. Miners soon relied on the horses for warnings. They would have saved many lives over the years. They wore head protectors, but the undulating floor caused the skip rails to warp. Horses suffered many injuries to their legs. “Pit horses knew their work better than their handlers. They could count, they knew when it was knock-off time and even when it was Friday afternoon.
“Miners considered these gentle giants their workmates and never tolerated anyone mistreating them. Each had a distinct personality; their injuries and deaths were sadly mourned.” Ms Morris said the Pit Horse Statue committee had been overwhelmed by the support and donations from the local community and mining companies, which have helped this project become a reality. This included an incredibly generous donation of $50,000 from the CFMEU. Fundraising activities are continuing, with the committee organising a number of Bunnings barbecues, as well as another Country Music Fundraiser this month. A set of five pewter belt buckles featuring pit horses has also been donated by Christine Brown to support the committee’s fundraising. If you are interested in more information or would like to bid for the belt buckles visit www.visitkurrikurri.com or call the Kurri Kurri Visitor Centre on 4936 1909. TOP: Coal miners lead a pit horse through an underground mine in the Hunter Valley. Image courtesy of the Bert Lovett Collection and The University of Newcastle, Australia. BELOW: Christine Brown with the set of five belt buckles she donated to help raise funds for the Pit Horse Statue project.
SHOP Australian Alpaca Barn brea + lulu Exclusive Diamond Co. Hunter Valley Christmas Shop Hunter Valley Gift & Crystal Shop Peppers Creek Antiques
Pokolbin Village Pharmacy
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ESSENTIALS Pokolbin Farm Shop Pokolbin Village Pharmacy
PLAY Aqua Golf and Putt Putt
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