Your Hunter Valley Magazine | Mar - Apr 23

Page 10

The No.1 magazine for visitors to Hunter Va ey Wine Country | MARCH-APRIL 2023 | ISSUE #209 Walking with Dinosaurs A FAVE FOR ALL SEASONS: THE CELLAR RESTAURANT HUNTER VALLEY FLAGSHIP WINES HOP ON IN TO HUNTER VALLEY CHOCOLATE CO. Unleash your inner palaeontologist!

OVER 50 INDIVIDUALLY CREATED DESSERTS Plus...

· DESSERT + WINE/LIQUOR PAIRINGS

· GLUTEN FREE + VEGAN AVAILABLE

· SABOR’S OWN COFFEE

· HOT, COLD + ALCOHOLIC DRINKS

· TAKEAWAY OR DINE IN · E-GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE!

For an altogether sweet experience, a visit to Sabor Dessert Bar is a MUST!

Indulge in our multi-award winning Portuguese chocolate mousse, decadent cakes, pastries, hand-made chocolates, Portuguese tarts and gourmet ice-cream.

Bookings are recommended –visit our website or call us for same day bookings.

OPEN Thursday & Friday 10am–4.30pm | Saturday 10am–5.30pm Sunday & Monday 10am–4.30pm PH (02) 4013 5095 | www.sabordessertbar.com.au OPEN ALL Easter Long Weekend (Except Good Friday)

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PH +61 2 4943 2888

www.yourhuntervalley.com.au enquiries@wcpmedia.com.au

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MAR–APR 2023

Copyright © 2023 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 15th March 2023 until the 16th April 2023 inclusive, or while stocks last.

ON THE COVER

The giants that once roamed the earth return to Hunter Valley Gardens for the annual April School Holiday Mega Creatures display. Read more on page 12.

Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn!

Perhaps Wine Country's most Instagram-able season of the year – Autumn is undoubtedly our favourite. The rains have transformed our vistas from monochrome to a vibrant green, and the long rows of vines will soon change from deep emerald to shades of red, orange and purple before the leaves gracefully fall for the Winter months. Finally, the days are getting shorter, the temperatures are starting to chill out, and we're all enjoying glorious sunny days with cooler nights.

And with the busy Vintage period almost over, March is less frantic, more relaxed and the perfect time to get out and enjoy everything the Hunter Valley has to offer.

From 1 April, our terrain will revert to a time 300 million years ago when the environment was both harsh and spectacular. Dinosaurs, dragons and giant creepy crawlies will invade Hunter Valley Gardens - roaring, buzzing, moving, swarming and crawling both day and night to scare and delight kids and their families throughout April.

This year there are newly hatched baby creatures in the Storybook Garden and a wonderful photo opportunity where you can take photos of your little one hatching out of a

giant dino egg. As the sun sets at Hunter Valley Gardens, and in a first for this year, there will be a new night-time tour – the Mega Creatures Night Safari, led by Jono the Dino Keeper. Keep an eye out for stomping dinosaurs that wander through the Gardens as you encounter life-sized mega creatures in the dark. Read more on page 12.

Easter is one of those rare times you can eat as much chocolate as possible without the fear of friends giving you that judgy, sideways glance! In this issue, we caught up with expert chocolatier Peter Carpenter from Hunter Valley Chocolate Company to talk all things chocolate and find out what unique and delicious delights can be found right here in the Hunter Valley this Easter. Read more on page 16.

This issue also looks at some of the stunning Flagship Wines of the Hunter Valley. With a talented list of winemakers at the forefront of their profession, producing some of the world's best and most distinctive wines, the Hunter Valley is renowned both at home and abroad. This month we showcase the best of the best from page 27.

Enjoy!

What’s in this

FOLLOW US!

yhv 3 | MAR-APR 2023 What’s On in March & April Hot in the Hunter Walking with Dinosaurs | Unleash Your Inner Palaeontologist! Meet the Maker | High Country Leather Hop On In to Hunter Valley Chocolate Co. Wine and Wander at Winmark All Aboard for Hunter Valley Monopoly Game Autumn Dining Guide A Point of Difference | Hunter Valley Flagship Wines Signature Wines Your Hunter Valley Map 4 10 12 15 16 20 22 24 27 28 30 IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH... GET MOBILE! View this month’s issue of Your Hunter Valley Magazine on your iPhone, iPad, android tablet or android phone. Visit www.yourhuntervalley.com.au/read-online 11 19 A WORD FROM THE EDITORS
Mar–Apr Issue?
27
PHOTO CREDIT: Hunter Valley Gardens RESTAURANT Unleashyourinnerpalaeontologist!

On? WHAT'S

Events not to miss in the Hunter Valley Region

March + April

BOOK ONLINE

Distiller's Flight Spirit & Cocktail Experience

At McGuigan Wines

Immerse yourself in the flavours of the Hunter in this exquisite Wine, Cheese & Chocolate tasting.

For the spirit and cocktail enthusiasts who are looking to try something new! Sample the best of our new spirit selection and find your favourite flavour. This guided tasting includes pours of gin, vodka, liquor creams, espresso, cosmo's and more, this is a not to be missed flavour experience! Cost: $15 pre-paid reservations for parties of 1 – 20 people. Visit www.mcguiganwines.com.au and click on Visit Us to book.

Clothes Swap and Repair

Café Night

East Cessnock Bowling Club

FRIDAY 17 MARCH

Want to update your wardrobe in a clever and thrifty way? Join in the fun for an evening of swapping clothes, which is a win-win – it saves money and makes the world better! Hold onto six good-quality garments and bring them along to help find a new home for them. It's a fun night out with a positive purpose! For more info, visit www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au

MAR & APR

Handmade in the Hunter Markets

Sobels Wines

SAT 18 & 25 MARCH, 1 & 8 APRIL, SUN 9 APRIL, SAT 15 APRIL 9am – 2pm

Maitland Community Markets

Maitland Showground

SUN 2 APRIL 9am – 1pm

Slow Food Earth Market

The Levee, Central Maitland

THURS 16 MARCH & 6 APRIL 8:30am – 1:30pm

The Valley Markets

Miller Park

Miller Park Hotel, Branxton

SUNDAY 19 MARCH 9:30am – 2pm

(PLEASE CHECK SOCIALS FOR ANY CANCELLATIONS)

yhv 4 | MAR-APR 2023
FIND THE LATEST EVENTS ONLINE AT YOURHUNTERVALLEY.COM.AU
Markets
Image: The Levee Central Maitland

St. Patrick's Day

Harrigan's Hunter Valley

FRIDAY 17 MARCH

Join in the festivities this March at Harrigan's - you'll find live music, Irish dancers, an Irish pipe band and drink specials! Come in style and enjoy the fun with friends. What better way to celebrate the Irish culture than at Harrigans Irish Pub! For more information or to book, visit www.harriganshuntervalley. com.au

Add to Your Collection at Morpeth Antique Centre

Discover 21 dealers and The Servant’s Quarters Tearoom, all under one roof. All things Ancient, Antique, Vintage, Retro, Heirloom, Collectable.

Wine Machine

Dalwood Estate

SATURDAY 18 MARCH

Enjoy a day filled with wine, food, and live music! The winery event is back with a garden party by day and a fiesta by night. So, dine, dance and drink your way through the adventure that sparks all senses. For more information or to secure your tickets to the Best. Chardy. Ever!, visit www.wine-machine.com

Cessnock Family Day

Poppet Head Park

SUNDAY 19 MARCH

Cessnock Family Day is a free day out for the family. With live music, a kid's zone, markets, a car display, and food options, it is sure to be filled with fun! For more information, visit www. cessnockchamber.com.au

Street Eats

Metford

FRIDAY 24 MARCH

Bringing together a variety of food trucks, Street Eats is the place to catch up with family and friends. Enjoy a picnic paired with live music for the ultimate relaxing atmosphere. For more information, visit www. mymaitland.com.au

AUSTRALIAN ALPACA BARN

yhv 5 | MAR-APR 2023
OPEN Thursday to Sunday, 10am–5pm 175 Swan Street, Morpeth, Hunter Valley PH 02 4933 1407 E info@morpethgallery.com      www.morpethantiquecentre.com

A BOUTIQUE, FAMILY FRIENDLY FESTIVAL FEATURING

Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival

MUDHONEY(USA) | BABY ANIMALS

MUDHONEY(USA) | BABY ANIMALS

Kurri Kurri

PAUL DEMPSEY | THE SHEEPDOGS(CAN)

PAUL DEMPSEY | THE SHEEPDOGS(CAN)

FRIDAY 24, SATURDAY 25 & SUNDAY 26 MARCH

AINSLIE WILLS | PARTY DOZEN

AINSLIE WILLS | PARTY DOZEN

DARREN HANLON | CABLE TIES

DARREN HANLON | CABLE TIES

BOB ‘BONGO’ STARKIE’S SKYHOOKS SHOW plus many more..

BOB ‘BONGO’ STARKIE’S SKYHOOKS SHOW plus many more...

The annual Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival is about all things rock n roll, classic cars, hot rods, fashion, dancing, music, and everything else that encapsulates the 50's and 60's! There is something for everyone at the Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival with free entertainment, market stalls, food vans, performance, parades, competitions, and lots more. Watch the town centre transform and be taken back to the glory of the 50's and 60's era. So, polish your cars, shine your shoes, and get ready to bring back the good times! For more information on the program or to purchase tickets to events, visit www.kurrikurrinostalgiafestival.com.au

Cheese Made Onsite – See our Cheesemakers in Action! Complimentary Cheese Tastings 7 Days Award Winning Cow and Goat Cheeses Grab-and-Go Cheese Boxes Local Wine, Coffee and Tea The Cheesiest Platter Of Your Dreams! OPEN 10AM–5PM 7 DAYS | Ph 4998 6660 | www.binnorie.com.au Tattersalls, Greta, is a friendly, family heritage Inn, with a traditional atmosphere located at the entrance of wine country. Delicious Food by chef Tina, Coffee, Beer, Cocktails and Craft Beers on Tap. 88 High Street, Greta | Ph (02) 4938 7302 | OPEN 7 DAYS NEW LOOK!
Tattersall FAMILIES | CLUB MEETINGS | CELEBRATIONS | PRIVATE DINING ROOM | PIANO | HIGH TEA | POOL ROOM WITH JUKEBOX | TAB | KENO | MEAT AND SEAFOOD RAFFLES | ACCOMMODATION | RACE GOERS AFTER PARTIES
HOTEL GRETA HOTEL GRETA

Red Hot Summer Tour

Roche Estate

SATURDAY 25 MARCH

With a line-up of Aussie music icons, The Red Hot Summer Tour will be one of the most popular festivals! Set amongst the vineyards of Roche Estate, it'll be a memorable experience for all who attend. To book, visit www. redhotsummertour.com.au

The Hunter Valley Kombi Festival

Saltire Estate

SATURDAY 25 MARCH

The Kombi Festival is sure to be a fun day out in the Hunter Valley! There is so much on offer, with live music, kid's entertainment, market stalls, food trucks, wine tasting, and the main attraction –a kombi and vee dub display. Enjoy Wine Country in a unique way! For more information or

Hunter Valley Airshow

Cessnock Airport

SATURDAY 25 & SUNDAY 26

MARCH

The Hunter Valley Airshow is back, so get ready for an exhilarating weekend full of family entertainment. There is something for everyone to enjoy at this blockbuster event. For more information or to book tickets, visit www. huntervalleyairshow.com.au

Cirque Mother Africa

Performance Arts Culture

Cessnock

FRIDAY 31 MARCH

Experience a jaw-dropping show with musicians and artists that will transport you to Africa. Cirque Mother Africa combines the best talent to provide wonder and joy with the heartbeat of Africa pulsating throughout. With contortion, acrobatics, music, hand balancing and more it is guaranteed to

to

captivate audiences. You don't want to miss this! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.mypacc.com.au

yhv 7 | MAR-APR 2023 WE BELIEVE IN THE
THINGS IN LIFE.
JUST NEED TO BE AMAZING. OPEN LUNCH FRI, SAT & SUN; DINNER FRI & SAT LOCATED AT POOLES ROCK/COCKFIGHTERS GHOST VINEYARD 576 DE BEYERS ROAD, POKOLBIN Ph 4998 7776 | info@huntersquarter.com.au www.huntersquarter.com.au LUNCH FRI, 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 7 days. Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant You’re always welcome at... Roche Estate, Hunter Valley Corner of Broke Rd & Mcdonald Rds, Pokolbin, NSW 2320 PH 02 4998 7051 www.oishii.com.au | /OishiiPokolbin Order Online
SIMPLE
THEY
book tickets, visit www. hvkombifest.com.au

Hunter offshore renewable energy consultation closes Friday 28 April 2023

A new offshore wind zone is being considered for waters off the Hunter coast.

There’s big potential for this new industry. The Australian Government wants to ensure that this potential new industry is managed in a balanced, responsible way that works for communities in Newcastle and the broader Hunter Region.

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) is undertaking consultation on this proposal until 28 April 2023 and wants to hear from you.

Read more about how to make a submission by scanning the QR code or go to https://consult.dcceew.gov.au/oei-hunter.

Outdoor Cinema

Bimbadgen

FRIDAY 31 MARCH

Join in the fun at Bimbadgen's first outdoor cinema with a showing of Sing 2! There is free show entertainment from 4pm, before the movie begins at 7.15pm. With movie treats, a range of Bimbadgen wines and wood fire pizza on offer, it is a night for the whole family to enjoy! To make it even better –it's a free event, but you still need to book a ticket to secure your

Rod Stewart

Roche Estate

SATURDAY 1 APRIL

Sir Rod Stewart has announced his tour with special guest Cyndi Lauper and Jon Stevens as the opener! For one night only, he will perform in the Hunter Valley, and you don't want to miss it! As one of the best-selling artists in the history of music, you can be sure it will be a night

Mega Creatures

Hunter Valley Gardens

SATURDAY 1 APRIL –

SUNDAY 30 APRIL

Mega Creatures are returning to the heart of Wine Country - the Hunter Valley Gardens! You'll find all your favourite dinosaurs, dragons, and creepy crawlies on display, which will transport you back to prehistoric times. With a thrilling night safari on offer, this truly is a MEGA event for the whole family to enjoy! For more information or to book tickets, visit www. huntervalleygardens.com.au

spot. To book tickets, visit www.bimbadgen.com.au

to remember. For more info or to book tickets, visit www. livenation.com.au

yhv 8 | MAR-APR 2023
0945SF_3761
5 Halls Road, Pokolbin
dcceew gov.au

Easter Celebrations

Hunter Valley Gardens

FRIDAY 7 – SUNDAY 9 APRIL

As part of the Mega Creatures event at the Hunter Valley Gardens, children can partake in an Easter Egg Hunt. Following the special hunt, each child receives one easter chocolate! For more information or to book tickets, visit www. huntervalleygardens.com.au

The Wharf Revue: Looking for

Albanese

Performance Arts Culture

Cessnock

WEDNESDAY 12 APRIL

Inspired by the national spirit of optimism that lasted only a week, the team at Wharf Revue are keen to tackle big-picture issues of our state. This satirical show will make you uproar with laughter. To book tickets, visit www.mypacc.com.au

yhv 9 | MAR-APR 2023 Sunrise Flights over the Hunter Valley $20 OFF Promo Code Take20 Use this code to receive $20 off applicable tickets when booking online www.balloonaloft.com 40 years experience! 725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley www.tintilla.com.au #tintillaestate 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 olives, olives, olives Bookings are a MUST! 325 Pywells Road, Luskintyre Tel 4930 6100/0421 401 288 www.tranquilvale.com.au Wine isn’t just about what’s in the bottle, it’s about the journey to get there; the soil, the weather and the people that bring it all together. We make Estate Grown, small batch wines that truly represent the terrior of our land and the tireless passion of our winemakers. We love what we do and want to share it with you - join us for a truly unique and personal experience at our Cellar Door.

WHAT'S HOT IN THE Hunter

Liqueur that Tastes as Good as it Looks!

In the heart of the Wine Country at the Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, you’ll discover a hidden gem that shimmers!

Small Mouth Vodka is an Australian-owned and run distillery known for its shimmery and delicious liqueurs, with a variety of flavours, including bubblegum, espresso, pina colada, and many more. If the flavours alone don’t tempt you, visit their tasting rooms to find a whole fleet of gins, vodkas, and liqueurs for customers to try for free! Pop into the distillery for a tasting and learn how best to enjoy the products mixed in a cocktail or on their own. You’ll discover for yourself that they really do taste as good as they look!

A small mouth doesn’t have room for just anything! Small Mouth only has room for the best, which is precisely what they provide! For more information, visit www.smallmouthvodka.com or to book a tasting, call 0492 031 862.

Hunter Valley AT HILLTOP

BABY FOALS!

Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village

EASTER TREATS GALORE

A unique collection of bespoke shops awaits you at the Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village. You’ll find everything from delicious treats, restaurants, and wine to stunning jewellery, clothing, and gifts. It’s the perfect place to visit while exploring Wine Country! With Easter just around the corner, the Shopping Village is a onestop destination to get everything sorted! You’ll find lots of different Easter treats that will be perfect for your celebrations and gifts. The experience and quality of the products you’ll find in the Shopping Village make it well worth a visit for Easter goodies!

Why not make a day out of it? Take the kids to the Mega Creatures event in the gardens, then stop in for a little Easter shopping afterwards! For more information and to check out the shops on offer, visit www.huntervalleygardens.com.au

NEW Programme , Activities and Animals

Wine Country’s Native Wildlife Sanctury • Lovedale’s Hill Top Farm Stay

Pony Rides • Pony Parties • Family Rides

• Sunset Rides

Picnic Rides • BBQ • Tractor Hay Rides to Feed the Farm Animals

Spectacular Valley Views • Riding over 300 acres

• Personalised Rides

Trail Rides for Adults and Children, for Beginners and Experienced Riders

ATV Sunset Tours with Wine & Cheese

• Marriage Proposals

• Weddings on Horseback

ATV Tours to see the Breeding Barn and Cattle Run • Peddle Go Karts for Ages 5 – 99 Years

Book your accommodation and meals created by Executive Chef Len O’Mally, Horse Riding and activities - Phone 0417 233 008

For Bookings Phone Margaret on 4930 7111 or 0417 233 008

Stay & Play at Hilltop, 288 Talga Road, Lovedale | www.huntervalleyhorses.com

So close to all of Wine Country’s attractions, yet you feel a million miles away..

yhv 10 | MAR-APR 2023 SHOP

Kelman Vineyard Award-Winning Wines

Nestled in the corner of the Parish of Pokolbin below Mount View, you’ll find Kelman Vineyard – the well-established, boutique vineyard that has won many awards.

Making classic Hunter varietals, Kelman Vineyard incorporates their skill and fine touch to create the perfect bottle to enjoy! Their philosophy is to produce classic-style wines, concentrating on what the fruit can deliver each year, depending on the climate and soil.

Kelman Vineyard is releasing a new Blanc de Blanc range that is made in the traditional method, spending four years on lees with a low dosage to produce a wine of distinction. The time has added further complexity and character to this early hand-picked Chardonnay. From the first bubble of the 2018 Blanc de Blancs, there is a creamy texture with faint toast characteristics. It pairs perfectly with seafood, chicken, spicy light pasta and even sweets including pavlova, berries, panna cotta, and Danish pastries. Make sure you grab a bottle to enjoy!

As you would expect from a quality winery, the estate is home to a stunning cellar door that offers tastings and sales of all Kelman Vineyard premium wines. Plan a visit to see for yourself why Kelman is not only a vineyard and cellar door but a community establishment!

A unique community of vines and wines await you at Kelman Vineyard. For more information, visit www.kelmanvineyard.withwine.com

The New Look Cellar Door at Tranquil Vale!

Set on the banks of the Hunter River, Tranquil Vale is a familyowned and operated boutique vineyard that offers designer accommodation. Tranquil Vale is the place to be if you’re after a holistic and interactive wine experience!

Tranquil Vale has been hard at work renovating their cellar door, which boasts a magnificent view over the vineyards. Enjoy a wine tasting in your own time while enjoying the surroundings, or try their infused olive oils with Connie’s homemade sourdough. If you really want to treat yourself, indulge in a regional tasting platter –the perfect pairing for the handcrafted, award-winning wines. Visit Tranquil Vale to hear their amazing stories of how the vineyard transformed from a cattle farm and have a laugh while enjoying the Estate Grown Hunter Valley wine. For more information or to book a tasting, visit www.tranquilvale.com.au

yhv 11 | MAR-APR 2023 THE GARDEN CELLARS You will nd us at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village Broke Road, Pokolbin OPEN 7 DAYS 10am - 5pm | PH 4998 7466 www.gardencellars.com.au
Chill
at The Garden Cellars Garden Cellars Spirit Range NOW AVAILABLE IN STORE! Hunter Valley Wine and Spirit Tastings Available Daily! MARCH EDITOR'S PICK ENJOY
Shimmer
Moscato

Walking with Dinosaurs

The Hunter Valley Gardens are located in an ancient landscape that once erupted with the fiery lava flows of volcanoes, still evident in the rich red soils that provide the local wine industry with perfect growing conditions today. So it’s apt that once a year, the giants that once roamed the earth return in the annual April School Holiday Mega Creatures display to the delight of junior palaeontologists and their families everywhere.

Autumn is a beautiful time to visit the Hunter Valley, and this April, including the school holidays and Easter, Hunter Valley Gardens invites visitors to roam among dinosaurs and create special memories at Mega Creatures and Mega Creatures Night Safari. Now in its eighth year, the event is open from Saturday, 1 April until Sunday, 30 April and is the perfect day or night out.

At this year’s event, you’ll discover rides for all ages, Easter Egg hunts, interactive fossil digs and giant animatronic animals for the whole family to enjoy. With over 14 hectares of immaculate gardens, manicured lawns, 6000 trees, 600,000 shrubs, and over 1 million ground cover plants, plus waterfalls, statues, murals, and much more, Hunter Valley Gardens has planned the perfect activities to get your family outdoors and enjoying the fresh air these holidays.

Each year the team behind this family favourite event create new displays and experiences so that no two years are ever the same. They work all year round to ensure that the best ideas come to

fruition, designing many of the displays themselves with state-of-the-art animatronics and speciality lighting and sourcing them internationally. The gardens are divided into 11 zones with different creatures to discover as you wander through the beautiful landscape.

This year there are newly hatched baby creatures in the Storybook Garden and a wonderful photo opportunity where you can take photos of your little one hatching out of a giant dino egg. Discover a kaleidoscope of colour in the Butterfly Garden with giant butterflies (some with a fourmetre wingspan), bugs, six-metre tall flowers, and insects such as 2-metre bees and 4-metre dragonflies. There are frosty creatures such as Woolly Mammoths and Sabre-Toothed Tigers in the Ice Age Storybook Garden and giant snakes and lizards on Reptile Road.

Don’t jump in the water at the Water Creatures Sunken Garden because you might get taken by the creatures from the deep. In the Predator versus Prey zone, there are creepy crawlies to scare you as the mega spiders and frogs battle it out. The Pterodactyls take flight in the Flying Creatures Amphitheatre, and you’ll be amazed by the mythical fire-breathing creatures in the Dragon’s Den Waterfall Lookout. Take special care not to disturb the new three-headed dragon!

Pre-historic creatures come to life in the Walk with the Dinosaurs Border Garden and Dino Land with new dinosaurs this year, including a Triceratops skull, a Chasmosaurus, a Styracosaurus, a Parasaurolophus and an extra Ankylosaurus and old favourites, T-Rex, Stegosaurus, Triceratops, and Spinosaurus. Everyone’s favourite dinosaur, the T-Rex, will be roaming around looking for his next feed and posing for the odd photo opportunity. Don’t miss the very popular Boneyard, where junior archaeologists get to

yhv 12 | MAR-APR 2023
WORDS LIANE MORRIS
ONLINE
IMAGES HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS UNLEASH YOUR INNER PALAEONTOLOGIST! READ

dig deep and discover mythical creature facts, figures and hidden fossils.

As the sun sets at Hunter Valley Gardens, and in a first for this year, there will be a new night-time tour – the Mega Creatures Night Safari, led by the Pretty Amazing Jono as the Dino Keeper wearing a safari suit and carrying a walkie talkie. Keep an eye out for stomping dinosaurs that wander through the Gardens as you encounter life-sized mega creatures in the dark, and hear the roars and the mysterious rustlings as you creep through the grounds. It’s an experience the kids will be sure to remember. Step back in time and explore Dino Land inhabited by prehistoric giants, including Stegosaurus, Ankylosaurus, Triceratops and lots more. Let your imagination take flight as the specialty lighting makes all the pre-historic and mythical creatures come alive at night in a way that will be equal parts enchanting and scary (in a fun way).

There are unique photo opportunities dotted throughout the gardens, including the hatching eggs in the Storybook Garden, a giant butterfly in the Butterfly Garden, and giant dinosaur skeletons, including a giant dinosaur skull that the kids can climb on. If you visit the Gardens over the Easter long weekend, there will also be a visit by the famous Easter Bunny and his long-time friend Alice in Wonderland – both available for photo opportunities.

Kids up to 15 will love the Giant Easter Egg Hunt, with thousands of brightly coloured eggs to collect. The Hunts will be conducted on Friday 7, Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 April, with three daily sessions. In another first for this year, the 10am hunt is reserved for children under six years of age only, so the little ones aren’t unfairly competing with the bigger kids. Easter

Egg Hunt tickets are $2 and can only be booked online after purchasing Mega Creatures tickets. Numbers are strictly limited, and session times for Easter Egg Hunts are non-transferable.

If you’re hungry from all that exploring, a wide range of delicious food options are available to enjoy, from pizza and souvlaki to Mexican, crepes, healthy nourish bowls, loaded spuds and more. To satisfy your sweet tooth, there are churros, gelato, doughnuts, sweet crepes, and tropicalsno, to name a few.

And, of course, once you’ve finished exploring and eating, grab a ride token and head over to the famous Hunter Valley Gardens’ rides. Soak up the vintage atmosphere of the Italian-built traditional Venetian Carousel, fly 11 metres above the ground and get your thrills on with the Swing Chair, have some twist and twirl fun in the Tea Cup or speed down the 35-metre Superslide that stands 12 metres high – guaranteed to keep even your teenagers happy. The 25-metre-tall Giant Ferris Wheel offers spectacular, panoramic views of the Gardens, surrounding mountains and wineries and will be your only chance to see the dinosaurs and other mega creatures from above – a firm favourite for all family members because you can sit back, take a breath, relax and enjoy the view.

Kim Jacobs, Marketing Manager at Hunter Valley Gardens, says, “A pre-historic and mythical world will be on display at Mega Creatures in the magnificent Hunter Valley Gardens, a truly Mega event with day and night displays of Dinosaurs, Dragons and Bugs that you won’t want to miss. We can’t wait to see the looks on children’s faces as F

yhv 13 | MAR-APR 2023

they experience life-size models of dinosaurs, dragons and bugs, with a fantastic interactive display to delight any age. Whether you’re visiting during the day or at night, this is the perfect day out for everyone during the school holidays.”

There are also opportunities to win free passes with giant dinosaur eggs hidden in the Gardens daily. If you find them, you have a chance to win a family pass to Snow Time – the Hunter Valley Gardens winter attraction. Over the three days of Easter, a hidden golden egg will offer super-sleuths the chance to win an annual family pass to the Gardens.

This year the Gardens celebrate 20 years since they were opened in October 2003 by then NSW Premier Bob Carr. Built by Bill and Imelda Roche over four years with a dedicated team of over 40 landscape gardeners, architects and engineers, it was the fulfilment of a long-held vision to create a garden that would be enjoyed by generations to come. The Gardens now welcome more than 300,000 visitors each year, with many of the regular events, such as Mega Creatures, Snow Time, and the Christmas Lights Spectacular becoming family traditions enjoyed annually by locals and tourists alike.

For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.huntervalleygardens.com.au/event/mega-creatures.

Details and show timings for the entertainment schedule for Mega Creatures and the Easter School Holidays:

ROAMING T-REX & VELOCIRAPTOR

April Dates Times

Sat 1st & Sun 2nd 11am, 12 noon, 1:30pm, 2:30pm

Fri 7th – Sun 23rd 11am, 12 noon, 1:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm

Mon 24th, Tues 25th, Sat 29th & Sun 30th 11am, 12 noon, 1:30pm, 2:30pm

ROAMING EASTER BUNNY & ALICE

April Dates Fri 7th – Sun 9th

Times 9.30am, 12 noon, 2.30pm

EASTER EGG HUNT

April Dates Fri 7th – Sun 9th Times 10am, 12.30pm, 3pm

NIGHT ROAR WALKING TOUR

April Dates Fri 7th – Sun 23rd Times 6.30pm & 8pm

yhv 14 | MAR-APR 2023

High Country Leather

Drop into Handmade in the Hunter Markets this month (see page 8) to discover a thriving artisan market where you can meet makers like Chris from High Country Leather!

Can you please tell us a bit about what you do? How did you come up with the idea?

Back in the 1980s, I bought my first genuine leather belt. It lasted 20 years (I was skinny then!). When it finally gave out, I thought, "I'll get another one!" But I couldn't find one to buy in any of the shops for any money, so I did a couple of courses and learned how to make leather gear myself. After that, I started running our market stall, and more than ten years later, I still am!

What types of products do you sell? What is your top-selling product? Who is your typical customer?

Belts and wallets, mainly. Our typical customer is sick of buying junk that doesn't do what it's supposed to and is prepared to pay a bit extra for handmade, quality stuff.

Our top selling product is the "Super Tradies Belt": it's buffalo hide lined with kangaroo skin and saddle stitched all around by hand. It's tough enough for work all day yet stylish enough to wear out. I particularly enjoy carving and tooling artwork onto the belts, though; elvish leaves and vines, cattle, Celtic knots and dragons, EH Holden logos, etc. Making someone a belt that means something personal to them is particularly satisfying.

How are your products made/what materials do you use and why?

Leather, cow, buffalo and kangaroo hide primarily. I buy the shoulders, butts and skins and cut them into the straps I need to make belts or the parts for a wallet. Then I use several layers of dye to provide contrasting colours - and depth - to the finished product. Using dye isn't like paintyou can't just wipe off a mistake, so it takes some time to get it right, but it does produce a lasting and striking result.

We notice from your website that many of your products are personalized – how can customers pre-order a personalized product?

By email, FaceBook or phone - the important thing is that they know their belt size. I have an image on my website showing how to get your belt size from a belt you already use.

What do you like most about Handmade in the Hunter Markets?

That's an easy one! The people. It's an artisan market; people make the stuff they sell, which gives us a common bond, but it goes beyond that. Over the years, it has developed into a family that all pitch in to help anyone that needs it.

yhv 15 | MAR-APR 2023 Hunter Farm is home to... • 4 Pines at The Farm – Taproom • The Barrel Bistro • Hunter Farm Wines & tasting • Hunter Farm & Adventure Centre incl. farm animals, segway & horseriding • Hunter Valley Resort OPEN 7 DAYS BREAKFAST | LUNCH | DINNER 917 Hermitage Road Pokolbin www.huntervalley.com.au | (02) 4998 7777 Broke Road Hunter CessnockGardens/ Deasys Road Mistletoe Lane OldNorthRoad Tyrrells Hermitage Road New England Highway Singleton/ Branxton THE FARM/ HUNTER VALLEY RESORT TABLE RESERVATIONS
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Hop On In to Hunter Valley Chocolate Company

Easter is one of those rare times you can eat as much chocolate as possible without the fear of friends giving you that judgy, sideways glance! And with Easter just around the corner and the supermarkets filled with all the usual boring chocolates, we caught up with expert chocolatier Peter Carpenter from Hunter Valley Chocolate Company to talk all things chocolate and find out what unique and delicious delights can be found right here in the Hunter Valley.

HV Magazine: What is your top seller, and how do you make it?

Peter: Over the past twenty-plus years, our top seller has been Peppermint Thins, closely followed by Rocky Road. The secret to our exquisite chocolate is in the freshness and the quality. We make it in 5-kilogram batches, and everything is packed in-store – so nothing has to travel. Due to the small batches, the chocolate is turned over quickly, guaranteeing its freshness. We make chocolate almost every day, and the chocolate we make from Saturday to Tuesday is gone by Sunday. There

yhv 16 | MAR-APR 2023
INTERVIEW LIANE MORRIS
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is no one else in Pokolbin who makes their chocolate on-site. This is our main point of differentiation and why our chocolate tastes the best – it's FRESH.

What ingredients do you use the most, and approximately how much do you use each year?

We use 8 tonnes of chocolate every year – 5 tonnes of milk chocolate, 2 tonnes of dark and 1 tonne of white. Dark chocolate has gained popularity over the past 15 years due to people becoming more healthconscious. The vegan movement has also contributed to its popularity because excellent dark chocolate contains no dairy. Our base is from Belgium. We've tried to source it from Australia, but it doesn't grow in the quantities we need. It really only grows 10 to 20 degrees on either side of the equator. So obviously, our Belgian base originates in Africa. Columbus took the plants and seeds from South America, and once Europe had developed a taste for chocolate, the various European countries, with their colonies in Africa, started growing it there so that it was cheaper to transport.

Easter is coming up. What advice can you give to budding Easter bunnies who want to do better than a supermarket egg?

Don't buy anything from the supermarket. We have a full range of Easter chocolates, including bunnies, bilbies, eggs, unique blown painted eggs filled with chocolate, and candy-coated sugar eggs with chocolate inside. We also create hampers made to order.

If you had to recommend one item from your shop, what would it be?

I would recommend anything that I make, but Dark Chocolate Rocky Road is particularly difficult to find, and it's so much better with dark chocolate. My personal favourite, though, is the Fruit & Nut Bark. But, really, there's no better way to find a favourite than for people to come and see/taste for themselves and make their own decision. We've got two locations in Pokolbin, and it's a great time of year to visit the Hunter Valley.

yhv 17 | MAR-APR 2023 Hunter Valley Chocolate Company EST. 1999 Ph 4998 6999 | www.hvchocolate.com.au Located in Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company has been a family owned and operated Hunter Valley gem for the last 24 years. Visit us at one of our 2 great locations on Broke Road to indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience! OPEN 7 DAYS Twenty-3-Twenty (2320 Broke Rd) • Peterson House Handmade Chocolate Gelato • Gifts 30+ Fudge Flavours

Small Mouth has you covered this Summer...

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Ingredients

• 30ml Small Mouth Shimmering

Passionfruit Vodka

• 90ml pineapple juice

• 1 cup of ice

• Fresh passionfruit for garnish

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker combine ice, Small Mouth Shimmering Passionfruit Vodka, and the pineapple juice

2. Shake vigorously

3. Strain the ice and pour into a martini glass

4. Garnish by carefully placing half of a passionfruit on top

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Small Mouth Vodka is a small family run business that specialises in Shimmering Vodka and Gins – handcrafted from only premium and organic ingredients. We boast full �avour with a long smooth �nish in every sip of our Vodkas, Gins, and Liqueurs. We try to show even the non-spirit drinkers that with our products its di�erent, that it is smoother and overall a more enjoyable experience than our competitors.

yhv 18 | MAR-APR 2023 Wine Tastings, Cheese Platters & Artisan Pantry The Next Generation of Hunter Valley Wines 312 Mount View Road, Mount View www.savannahestate.com.au wine@savannahestate.com.au 02 4990 6326 smallmouthvodka.com SmallMouthVodka
Find us at HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS SHOPPING VILLAGE, BROKE ROAD, POKOLBIN. For any bookings phone 0492 031 862 or email info@smallmouthvodka.com

A Favourite for All Seasons: The Cellar Restaurant

With a long-standing reputation for excellence, a visit to the Hunter Valley is not complete without a meal at The Cellar Restaurant.

Just a short stroll from Hunter Valley Gardens, The Cellar Restaurant specialises in Contemporary Modern Australian cuisine, focusing on fresh seafood, tender lamb and vegetarian dishes utilising fresh local produce.

The Cellar Restaurant is, in a word, unique and, without a doubt, one of the finest restaurants in the Hunter. Located on the grounds of the Hunter Valley Gardens Village, there’s no doubt that The Cellar Restaurant is the most central and most convenient spot in the Hunter to go for a meal. And in the cooler months, there is no better place to be, with the spectacular centrally located fireplace keeping diners wonderfully warm.

The menu is refreshingly diverse and well thought out, with inspired influences and an emphasis on fresh seasonal produce.

Starting with entrees, you will discover everything from Sydney rock oysters to delicious smoked squid, pork cheek, beef neck or a selection of delectable vegetarian options like goat’s cheese and pumpkin Rotolo. The selection of mains is equally as tempting and includes a selection of vegetarian treats alongside a choice of duck Maryland, smoked beef cheek, lamb shank, market fish with yellow curry sauce, pork loin or a slow-cooked lamb shoulder for two. Leave room for dessert, which comes with your choice of four mouth-watering delights.With these menu choices, you soon realise why The Cellar is considered one of the Hunter’s most outstanding restaurants.

The wine list is just as generous and includes an extensive range of excellent local Hunter Valley wines.

With its delightful setting, warm, attentive service, emphasis on simplicity of ingredients, excellent execution and presentation, The Cellar Restaurant is up there with the best in local and regional dining. It’s a summer and winter favourite amongst locals and visitors to the Hunter.

Visit www.the-cellar-restaurant.com.au for more information.

Located at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin Phone 4998 7584 LUNCH from 12pm Mon – Sat; DINNER from 6pm Mon – Sat www.the-cellar-restaurant.com.au Try our NEW MENU! e Cellar Restaurant delivers modern contemporary Australian cuisine, utilising local and seasonal quality ingredients. Dine in our indoor garden se ing or outside in the courtyard.
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Wine and Wander at

Winmark

If you enjoy sipping fine wine while appreciating art in a tranquil setting, then take a trip to Broke. For wine and art lovers, Winmark is fast becoming known for its incredible and immersive experiences. Open seven days a week, and located in the Broke Fordwich sub-region of the Hunter Valley, Winmark is a destination in its own right. With its superb Chardonnay only wine tasting experiences, which can be coupled with sumptuous cheese and charcuterie platters, its cleverly curated art gallery and gift shop, a coffee cart with great brews available daily, as well as a super immersive sculpture garden and walk.

Wine and art lovers rejoice! This autumn, Winmark has launched a family-friendly Sculpture Walk just in time for (but not limited to) the upcoming school holidays. Enjoy a stroll amongst the vineyard as you take in the spectacular array of sculptures from large to small; everywhere you look, you’ll be enthralled as you seek the next. Take the self-guided walking tour of the picturesque property, taking in some of the best scenery in the region while you meander, barista coffee in hand. The kids will have their own A3 colouring maps with crayons to capture their creativity as they stop and draw what they see.

Return to the Cellar Door for a wine tasting and cheese platter with Winmark’s award-winning olives for the adults. The kids will love their own cheese and bickie plate, popper and ice cream! Take the family on an art adventure, available seven days a week year-round at Winmark for just $95 for two adults and two children, all-inclusive; add an extra child for just $10.

Winmark is a place of remarkable beauty and unexpected discovery. You are always welcome at Winmark.

ART GALLERY | SCULPTURE WALK | CELLAR DOOR

Spanning 130 breathtaking acres, Winmark is not just a premium Chardonnay producer, but a destination. The Art Gallery alongside the Cellar Door overlooks grounds that are a wonderland of their own, scattered with extraordinary Sculpture installations. Come for a barista co ee, explore the arts and stay for a Chardonnay tasting.

ART GALLERY AND CELLAR DOOR OPEN 7 DAYS

For half a century this site has grown exceptional fruit with a history of producing highly acclaimed Chardonnay. The vineyard has now been recognised as one of Australia’s Top 50 Vineyards 2022, and is producing exceptional Chardonnays winning NSW Small Winemakers Trophy for Best Young Chardonnay 2021-2022.

T: 02 9997 5373 | E: info@winmarkwines.com.au | 229 Wollombi Road, Broke NSW 2330, Australia @winmarkwines | winmarkwines.com.au

yhv 20 | MAR-APR 2023
Photo: DNSW Cassandra Hannagan 2022 NSW SMALL WINEMAKERS AWARD: Gold Medal & Trophy Best Young Chardonnay
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yhv 21 | MAR-APR 2023 OPEN FOR TASTINGS AND SALES 7 DAYS, 10AM–5PM 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH (02) 4998 6737 E info@hunterdistillery.com.au www.hunterdistillery.com.au Made in Pokolbin • Locally Owned Pokolbin’s Original Distillery
yhv 22 | MAR-APR 2023 Kelman VINEYARD A unique community of vines and wines awaits you... 2 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 P: 0466 033 382 Cellar Door Open: Friday - 1pm to 4pm, Weekends - 10am to 4pm or by private appointment Couples, friends, families, singles, or tour groups –all are welcome at Kelman! www.kelmanvineyard.com.au Visit our award-winning boutique winery nestled in a quiet corner of Pokolbin at the gateway to Mount View. margan.com.au 1238 Milbrodale Road, Broke WINERY CELLAR DOOR RESTAURANT EVENTS (02) 6579 1372 Award-winning winery and restaurant established by Andrew & Lisa Margan in 1996. It’s the perfect destination to enjoy sustainably farmed, single vineyard wines, including pioneering varietals such as Barbera and Albariño. Relax and enjoy acclaimed agri-dining, driven by seasonal produce grown on site. We o er unique vine-to-glass and paddock-to-plate experiences and look forward to welcoming you soon! ALL ABOARD FOR HUNTER VALLEY MONOPOLY GAME READ ONLINE

Cessnock City Council has developed the first-ever Hunter Valley Monopoly Board Game following the community survey that received over 650 responses.

The game focuses on tourist attractions and will be used to promote the many visitor experiences on offer in the Hunter Valley. The game features locations from Laguna, south of the Cessnock Local Government Area (LGA), all the way north to Lake St Clair, in the Singleton LGA.

The Hunter Valley Monopoly Edition will be released on 23 September 2023, with copies expected to sell out fast. Get your copy to see if your favourite street was included, see if your town was mentioned in a Chance Card and learn why the Hunter Valley is a sought-after tourism destination.

Cessnock City Mayor Jay Suvaal said he was interested to see how the community feedback has been incorporated into the game.

“This is a unique way to continue to promote the Cessnock Local Government Area as a destination,” Mayor Suvaal said.

“I am looking forward to seeing the streets and destinations we know and love on this special edition Monopoly board.”

You can guarantee yourself a copy of the Hunter Valley Monopoly Game by pre-ordering online at: www.eventbrite.com.au

Alternatively, a limited number of board games will be available for purchase at the Hunter Valley Launch event on 23 September at the Hunter Valley Visitor Centre.

The Hunter Valley Monopoly Board will be available as a fundraising opportunity for community groups and schools that purchase in larger quantities for a special price. Please email economic.development@cessnock. nsw.gov.au for more information.

yhv 23 | MAR-APR 2023

OneLocation!

Autumn Dining Guide

éléments bar & dining, MAP REF K10

THE DECK CAFÉ

Take time to taste the delights of The Deck Café. Start your day with an extensive breakfast menu or long lunch the day away with a Mediterranean inspired Tapas Menu that’s worth savouring well into the afternoon.

701 LOVEDALE ROAD, LOVEDAL E

Located onsite at Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens, éléments bar & dining is the perfect Wine Country dining experience. The title éléments is derived from the natural elements of fire, water and soil. These elements and quality produce are transformed by Executive Chef Michael Watson who has created a menu influenced by the flavours of France and Italy. Try our prima vera pasta, durham fettuccine with sauteed green vegetables, cherry tomatoes & baby spinach. A beautiful fresh dish to excite your tastebuds.

Mercure Resort HVG, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

Ph 4998 2000 OPEN 7 nights from 5:30pm

CELLAR DOOR OPEN 7 DAYS

PH 4930 7113 | WWW.GARTELMANN.COM.AU

THE DECK CAFÉ

BREAKFAST & LUNCH 7 DAYS

PH 4930 9007 | WWW.DECKCAFELOVEDALE.COM.AU

Autumn is here and what better time to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner overlooking the picturesque vineyard at Wandin Estate. The leaves are changing and so is our local, seasonal menu. Wandin Kitchen caters for small intimate dining, family gatherings or social catch ups and we highly recommend a cellar door tasting beforehand.

If you can't choose what to have, order our 'signature' Chef's tasting plate: four menu items, each matched with an Estate wine tasting. Online bookings are highly recommended.

12 Wilderness Road, Lovedale PH 4930 9888

OPEN Breakfast Fri-Sun, Lunch Thurs-Sun, Dinner Fri & Sat nights W www.wandin.com.au/wandinkitchen

Myrtle & Stone, MAP REF X5

Myrtle & Stone is a breakfast and lunch cafe set in the gorgeous village of Wollombi. They’re all about great food, local produce and sharing the relaxed feeling you get when passing through this beautiful and historic part of the world. If you love good music and service with a smile, drop into Myrtle & Stone for breakfast, lunch and enjoy a cocktail or a local drop of vino.

2877 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi PH 4998 3220

OPEN Breakfast & Lunch 7 days

E hello@myrtleandstone.com W www.myrtleandstone.com

yhv 24 | MAR-APR 2023
Wandin Kitchen, MAP REF E18
LOVEDALE TWO EXPERIENCES...

The Cellar Restaurant, MAP

An autumn favourite, The Cellar Restaurant delivers modern contemporary Australian cuisine, utilising local and seasonal quality ingredients. Dine in the intimate indoor garden setting with its centrally located fireplace or outside in the courtyard during the day. Try the new a la carte and tasting menu! Bookings recommended.

HVG Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998 7584

OPEN Lunch + Dinner Mon–Sat E admin@the-cellar-restaurant.com.au

W www.the-cellar-restaurant.com.au

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 heartwarming, 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 Rds Pokolbin

PH 4998 7051 OPEN 7 Days Lunch, Dinner + T/A

W www.oishii.com.au

Located in Pooles Rock Vineyard of Pokolbin, Hunters Quarter (HQ) is a relaxed and elegant destination. The restaurant is a dining space with something for everyone – whatever the occasion, come and discover a contemporary dining experience with a private terrace in the vineyards. Perfect for family, friends and fantastic food.

Pooles Rock/Cockfighters Ghost Vineyard, 576 De Beyers Rd, Pokolbin

PH 4998 7776 OPEN Lunch Fri, Sat & Sun, Dinner Fri & Sat

E info@huntersquarter.com.au W www.huntersquarter.com.au

Award-winning cellar door Premium wines from NSW regions. Friendly, knowledgeable staff Open seven days a week Scan the QR to book

yhv 25 | MAR-APR 2023
REF L10 Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant, MAP REF K11
the
Hunters Quarter (HQ), MAP REF M9
Experience
Hunter with the Epic Tasting
yhv 26 | MAR-APR 2023 Casual eats and live music every Friday, Saturday and Sunday WINE + FOOD + LIVE MUSIC Cellar Door open daily 10am-5pm (Friday until 7:30PM) 15 Marrowbone Rd, Pokolbin 02 4991 1770 B O O K A W I N E T A S T I N G E X P E R I E N C E B O O K N O W : W W W . S A D D L E R S C R E E K . C O M . A U www.wineanddinehuntervalley.com.au Let show you where. IMAGE: CESSNOCK CITY COUNCIL CHANGED - Please add a bubble "New Issue Out Now" with image of the new cover Hunter Valley Wine Country The home of Sniff...Swirl...Sip.

A Point of Difference HUNTER VALLEY FLAGSHIP WINES

The Hunter Valley (one of the longest-established wine regions and the most significant for New South Wales) is renowned for having a talented list of winemakers who are at the forefront of their profession and for producing some of the world's best and most distinctive wines – in particular, Semillon and Shiraz which are the hallmark of this region.

The most recognisable of these is Hunter Valley Semillon – the Hunter Valley's flagship variety and a truly outstanding wine in terms of quality and taste with a style that has not been replicated anywhere else in the world.

Other varieties grown include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Verdelho, which have all produced great Hunter wines. The region is also home to a talented list of winemakers who are at the forefront of innovative and new varieties that include Pinot Grigio, Viognier, Gewurztraminer, Chambourcin and Sangiovese, amongst others.

The term' Signature' or 'Flagship' wine does not have a specific definition within the wine industry, so there are no rules dictating how a winery, or a region for that matter, chooses their flagship wine or even if they have one.

For many, signature wines are wine brands with a unique and memorable history, a point of difference that makes them easily recognisable in the market. These wines have their own identity and stand out from their competitors. An excellent example is Tyrrells' Vat 1 Semillon – an aristocratic wine first produced in 1963 and considered Australia's best Semillon.

Signature wines are also wines that reflect the typical style of the person who has made it, wines coveted by wine lovers and collectors alike –such as Mount Pleasant's acclaimed single vineyard Lovedale Semillon and the highly awarded Maurice O'Shea Shiraz.

A flagship wine does not always have to be limited to a variety. Instead, it could be a wine style (such as sparkling or Rosé) or a blend such as the Lakes Folly Cabernet Blend – an elegant, medium-bodied blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Shiraz and the most collected Cabernet in Australia.

Like Shiraz in Australia, countries worldwide have their own flagship wine varieties and styles. Whether iconic, historical, or popular, these wines make up a part of each country's unique wine identity. For South Africa, it's Chenin Blanc and the unique red variety Pinotage. In Argentina, it's Malbec; in Chile, it's Cabernet Sauvignon and in Italy (particularly Tuscany), it's Sangiovese. For the major Spanish wine regions, it's Tempranillo, and in the Rias Baixas region, it's Albarino. In California (USA), it's Zinfandel which also happens to be home to some of the oldest Zinfandel wines in the world. Bordeaux is France's most famous wine region and the reference point for Cabernet Sauvignon. The Douro in the north of Portugal is the country's flagship red-wine region, but while it is the oldest demarcated wine region in the world, it's more famous for its production of Port wine.

Closer to home, the flagship variety for the Swan Valley is Verdelho, and South Australia's Clare Valley is better known for its Riesling. In the Yarra Valley and the Tamar Valley in Tasmania, the flagship variety is Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

At the end of the day, these flagship varieties serve to attract consumers to a winery and to experience all the other varieties on offer in the region at the tasting.

What is common to all flagship wines is that they are all wines of exceptional quality – wines that reflect the characteristics specific to the winemaker's vineyard. A wine that reflects a good example of the style and embodies the grape varietal and region in which it was grown.

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WORDS QUENTIN VON ESSEN
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Signature Wines

BONVILLA ESTATE Arcachon Semillon 2022

TASTING Pale lemon yellow with a silver-green hue. Very focused lemon and lime with citrus florals and a hint of lemonade iceblocks. Some underlying mineral talc and lavender floral notes. Plush entry with lemon and lime across zesty yet supple acidity. There is power in the acid but a touch of the Fist in the velvet glove here. Long, succulent, and juicy making this wine a good contender for the cellar.

FOOD MATCH Spaghetti vongole.

CELLARING 5 years and another 5 beyond to see its best.

DRAYTON'S FAMILY WINES Reserve Gewürztraminer 2022

Draytons Reserve wines are made from specially selected grapes, sourced from low-yielding vineyards located in the heart of the worldrenowned Pokolbin district of the Hunter Valley.

TASTING Hailing from Alsace in France, Gewürztraminer is an aromatic grape variety, renowned for its heady, floral aromas, reminiscent of lychees and roses. Crisp, refreshing flavours, with a touch of spice and a luscious finish.

Gewürztraminer - hard to say, easy to drink!

FOOD MATCH Delightful with roast chicken salad or egg omelette.

CELLARING Cellar for 3 to 5 years.

MERCER WINES

Limited Release Shiraz

Mercer’s Limited Release range selects vineyards of pedigree to produce wines that reflect variety and region. This award winning 2021 Shiraz is made with the best fruit parcels from two outstanding Hunter Valley vineyards and aged in quality French oak to craft a delicious, complex wine that will age gracefully.

TASTING Unmistakably Hunter with intense black fruits and spice, finishing with velour-like tannins

FOOD MATCH A perfect accompaniment to slow cooked beef and roasted root vegetables.

CELLARING Cellar for 5 to 20 years.

HUNGERFORD HILL WINES 2021 Classic Hunter Valley Shiraz

A cool year with ample rainfall. The right conditions for a lush modern Shiraz. Intense concentrated fruit, producing some of the most beautiful deep coloured juice.

TASTING Generous jube fruits accented with soft oak and subtle camphor on the nose. Plums and dark cherry flavours dominate the palate. Fruit forward with a medium length, vibrant and young.

FOOD MATCH For a relaxed autumnal lunch of lamb pie, with thick cut chips. For a dinner option a juicy rib eye steak with dark sauce on the side and pan seared broccolini.

CELLARING Cellar for 7+ years.

BLUEBERRY HILL VINEYARD

2022 Semillon

A rarity for Blueberry Hill Vineyard, our 2022 vintage is a classic example of what makes Hunter Valley Semillon great.

TASTING A nose of lemon citrus gives way to a clean, sharp palate with notes of lemon and green apple.

FOOD MATCH A perfect accompaniment to fresh seafood, especially prawns.

CELLARING Drink now for a crisp wine or cellar up to 2037 to taste the rarity of aged Semillon.

WINMARK WINES

Winmark Expressions

Chardonnay 2021

An artists expression of the spectacular landscape surrounding Winmark’s vineyard in Broke, and similarly the wine an expression of the quality of the grapes Winmark can produce. This recently restored 50 year old vineyard is one of the Hunter Valleys most renowned Chardonnay vineyards.

TASTING Elderflower and white peach aromas beckon toward a palate of quince and ripe Meyer Lemon spiced with nutmeg. Fine wine requires reflection and time. Enjoy this classic expression of the site as she engages with you over time.

FOOD MATCH The perfect accompaniment to any seafood or seafood inspired pasta, prawn risotto or roast chicken. Its versatile and luscious so pairs perfectly with so many foods.

CELLARING Cellar for 3 to 5 years.

yhv 28 | MAR-APR 2023
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2022 ‘Alexander Munro’ Chardonnay

Alexander Munro was winemaker, Rhys Eather’s great-greatgrandfather and these true reserve wines are released only in years that reflect the status of the label.

The old-vine ‘Casuarina’ Vineyard located on Hermitage Road in Pokolbin was again the Chardonnay vineyard source for the most recent 2022 vintage. This vineyard has been consistently used by us since 2007 and is managed by Ken Braye.

TASTING Stone-fruit aromas with citrus support. There is a toastiness from the French oak that adds complexity to the nose and palate. The palate is medium weighted, crisp, fresh and clean. There is beautiful balance and an impressive length of flavour.

FOOD MATCH Seafood, and white meats such as chicken and pork.

CELLARING Medium term, cellar for 6 to 9 years.

$25.50 Members

$30 RRP Shop Now

SAVANNAH ESTATE

2022 Hunter Valley

Vermentino Arnies

Savannah Estate Wines are produced from small select parcels of premium fruit grown in renowned viticulture regions throughout Australia. This Italian white blend will definitely be the feature of every long lunch. Saluti! TASTING Vermentino from the isle of Sardinia and Arneis from the mountainous region of Piedmont. Vermentino presents maritime influences such as ocean spray and citrus whilst the Arneis offers us more thick and ripe cooler climate characters. On the nose, salty and savoury citrus emerge – whilst the palate is the perfect amalgamation of the contrasting varieties. Yuzu citrus, jasmine florals and pink grapefruit jump out creating a mouthwatering front palate whilst lime cordial and elderflower thicken the back palate and round out the wine, creating a generous but lively full palate experience

FOOD MATCH Pumpkin ravioli with burnt butter and sage sauce or salt and pepper squid CELLARING Cellar for 5 to 7 years.

THE GARDEN CELLARS

Shimmer Chill Moscato

The Garden Cellars most popular wine. Beautiful Pink Moscato that is a must have for any celebration! Perfect for parties and family get togethers, great conversation starter and extremely eye catching.

TASTING Refreshing Pink Moscato with notes of apple followed by a fizzy sherbet finish.

FOOD MATCH Pairs well with desserts and pastries.

CELLARING Store in a cool dark place and perfect to drink now.

HART & HUNTER WINES

2021 Single Vineyard Twenty

Six Rows Chardonnay

HART & HUNTER are passionate about dirt and the differences individual vineyard sites can have on a wine.

TASTING Early picked Chardonnay has ensured the retention of natural acidity and citrus flavours to balance the depth and richness from barrel ferment and regular lees stirring. The 2021 is bright and crisp with the nose offering apricots, grapefruit and a citrus edge, with a subtle flintiness. The palate follows through with fresh and crisp tropical flavours whilst being deliciously textured with lovely depth. A wine that embraces its subtleties and will age and develop beautifully.

FOOD MATCH Enjoy this delicious Chardonnay with Thai fish cakes and a ginger and lime dipping sauce.

CELLARING A great wine drinking now, but definitely leave it in the cellar if you can for 5+ years.

HANGING TREE WINES

2019 Blacksmith's Shiraz Cabernet

Our Blacksmith's Cottage, dated back to the turn of the 20th century, is a piece of history and one that we honour with this wine. TASTING A well-constructed wine that delivers a rich plum fruit bouquet and an intriguing licorice background. The palate is firm with ripe plum, boysenberries and blackcurrant encased in creamy, vanillin French oak.

FOOD MATCH Pair with beef cheeks, lamb, or enjoy on its own!

CELLARING Drink now or cellar for a further 8 to 15 years.

SADDLER’S CREEK WINES

2019 Alessandro Reserve Shiraz

Rich in concentrated fruit flavours, this Shiraz is crafted in small batch. Handpicked, fermented in open vats, hand plunged and finally basket pressed prior to maturation, preserving the delicate essence of this regional hero. Pristine fruit, a gentle hand and the finest oak give finesse, flavour and longevity.

TASTING Our winemakers mature this exceptional Hunter Valley Shiraz in French and American barrels for 18 months. The fine grain of French oak has subtle influence of dark chocolate, roasted coffee beans and exotic, savory spices with firm, but silky tannins to harmoniously balance the elegant fruit flavours. The use of seasoned American oak barrels contributes additional texture and complexity.

FOOD MATCH Slow cooked duck Maryland, three texture pumpkin, baby spinach salad.

CELLARING Cellar for 8 to 10 years.

yhv 29 | MAR-APR 2023
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Thompson ’s Rd WOLLOMBI RD Restaurant Cellar Door Shopping Gourmet Produce Markets Spa/Health Retreat MAP NOT TO SCALE OldNorthRoad O l d North Road dlO htroN Rdao Sweetwater Road Cou lson R d Camp Road T u c k e r s L a n e MajorsLane B r i c k m a n s L a n e G r e e n L a n e I bnor a r k H i l l R d M i s t l e t eo Lena D e a s y s R o a d daoRsysaeD MCDONALDS ROAD MC T la g a R o a d P a l m e r s L a n e P a l m e r s L a n e B l a c k burn C l HUNTEREXPRESSWAY W i d e r n e s s R o a d LOVEDALE ROAD LOVEDALE ROAD WINECOUNTRYDRIVE WINECOUNTRYDRIVE WINECOUNTRY DRIVE HERMITAGE ROAD LOVEDALE POKOLBIN 1 (NORTH) BROKERD TO SINGLETON TO SINGLETON TO BRANXTON LUSKINTYRE TO NEWCASTLE TO BRANXTON LUSKINTYRE MAITLAND MORPETH Hunter Valley Gardens HVG Shopping Village Hunter Valley Resort/Hunter Farm H U N T E R R I REV Snaw S t TankSt PheonixParkRd TO MORPETH RD EAST MAITLAND Morpeth Gallery MORPETH Sta�on St mahndyW tS D r i n a n S t F l e e t S t CLIFF ST BRIDGE ST N E W E N G L A N D H W Y TO WINE COUNTRY DRIVE TO GRETA MAITLAND, THORNTON BRANXTON Lions Park Australian Alpaca Barn Morpeth An�que Centre & Campbell’s Store To Mortels (Thornton) To Tattersall’s Hotel (Greta) T h o m p s o n s ’s R d F e m n g S t L o n d o n s R d O l s e n R o a d daoRsnodnoL L o d g e Ro a d B R O K E R O A D B R O K E R O A D De Beyers Rd G i l a r d s R o a d L o m a s L a n e McCarthy Rd F l e t c he r S t E k e r t s R o a d D e B e y e r s R o a d D e B e y e r s R o a d daoRsreyeBeD Ekerts Road POKOLBIN 2 BROKE < 15KM > PUTTY RD Halls Rd TO SINGLETON TO BLUE MOUNTAINS Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley Cessnock Airport Visitor Information C a m p b e l s L n e MILLBRODALE R D TO GRETA AND BRANXTON LUSKINTYRE PYWELLS RD LUSKINTYRE RD Winmark Wines Wandin Kitchen Wandin Tranquil Vale Vineyard Tin�lla Estate The Deck Caf é Tamburlaine Organic Wines Sabor Dessert Bar Running Horse Wines Roche Estate Peterson House Pescara Italian Restaurant Oishii Japanese Thai Mercer Wines Meerea Park Wines McGuigan Wines Margan Wines & Restaurant The Garden Cellars Small Mouth Vodka Australian Alpaca Barn The Cellar Restaurant Hunter Valley Adventure Centre –Segways, Horseriding, Electric Bikes Hunter Valley Wine Theatre Hunter Valley Wine School 4 Pines at The Farm Hunter Farm Wines Barrel Bistro HV Horseriding and Adventures HV Chocolate Co. HV Chocolate Co. Huntlee Tavern Huntlee Fitness Hunters Quarter Restaurant Hunter Dis�llery Hungerford Hill Harrigans Hunter Valley Handmade in the Hunter at Kevin Sobels Wines Gartelmann Wines � l é ments Binnorie Dairy Balloon Alo� Mee�ng Point Australian Alpaca Barn Blueberry Hill Vineyard Hart & Hunter
Cedar CreekRd WOLLOMBI W O L L O M B I R O A D N a o n e C r e e k R d 24. 5KM > <30KM GREAT NORTH ROAD TO SYDNEY VIA PEATS RIDGE PAYNESCROSSINGROAD MountBrightRD Bimbadeen Rd KendallStreet MOUNT VIEW M o u n t V i e w R d 42<MK5. DONALDS RD O A K E Y C R E E K R O A D M O U N T V I E W R O A D ALLANDALERD K e r e w S t r e e t O ’C o n n o r s R o a d M a r r o w b o n e R o a d M A I T L DNA R ODA DAORIBMOLLOW A B E R D A R E R OAD VincentStreetDarwinSt CumberlandSt NULKABA (SOUTH) TO ABERMAIN KURRI KURRI MAITLAND NEWCASTLE Cessnock Regional Art Gallery Wes t A ev CESSNOCK TO QUORROBOLONG TO SYDNEY M1 PACIFIC MOTORWAY Performance Arts Culture Cessnock (PACC) Pokolbin Mountains Rd Blueberry Hill Vineyard E11 Bonvilla Estate P9 Drayton’s Family Wines P9 Gartelmann Wines F18 Hanging Tree Wines O12 Hart & Hunter F10 Hungerford Hill K14 Kelman Vineyard Q14 Margan Wines K3 McGuigan Wines L10 Meerea Park L10 Mercer Wines L10 Peterson House K14 CELLAR DOORS STAY Harrigan’s Hunter Valley L9 Hunter Valley Resort F5 Ta�ersall’s Hotel Greta B16 Winmark Wines L4 Balloon Alo� (Pickup Point) K14 Hunter Valley Adventure Centre –Segways, Horseriding, Electric Bikes F5 HV Horseriding & Adventures D17 Huntlee Fitness A12 Hunter Valley Gardens K9 Hunter Valley Wine Theatre F5 Hunter Valley Wine School F5 Morpeth Gallery (Morpeth) C18 Australian Alpaca Barn K8/K9 Australian Alpaca Barn (Morpeth) B19 Campbell’s Store (Morpeth) C18 Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village K9 Morpeth An�que Centre (Morpeth) C18 Small Mouth Vodka K9 The Garden Cellars K9 GOURMET PRODUCE Binnorie Dairy J17 Campbell’s Store (Morpeth) C18 HV Chocolate Co. K13/K14 Sabor Dessert Bar K13 Tin�lla Estate E4 The Deck Café F18 ACTIVITIES & EVENTS SHOPS MARKETS Handmade in the Hunter Markets K12 4 Pines Brewing Co. at The Farm F5 Hunter Dis�llery K11 Small Mouth Vodka K9 DISTILLERIES & BREWERIES Running Horse Wines J2 Saddler’s Creek Wines Q13 Savannah Estate R13 Tamburlaine Organic Wines M10 The Garden Cellars K9 Tin�lla Estate E4 Tranquil Vale Vineyard A14 Winmark Wines L4 4 Pines at The Farm F5 � léments K10 Harrigan’s Hunter Valley L9 Hunters Quarter N9 Huntlee Tavern A12 Myrtle & Stone X5 Oishii Japanese Thai K10 Pescara Italian Restaurant J11 Sabor Dessert Bar K13 Ta�ersall’s Hotel Greta B16 The Cellar Restaurant K9 The Deck Café F18 Wandin Kitchen D18
Savannah Estate Saddler’s Creek Wines Myrtle & Stone Kelman Vineyard Hanging Tree Wines Drayton’s Family Wines Bonvilla Estate Hunter Valley Chocolate Company ( K13/J14) Winmark Wines (L4) Hunter Valley Gardens Mega Creatures (K9)
RESTAURANTS/CAFÉS
Visit hvg.com.au for details and online tickets. 02 4998 4000 - Broke Road, Pokolbin Entry to the Gardens closes one hour before the completion of each session. Admission charges apply. Program subject to change. Terms and conditions of entry apply. Access to the entire Garden is available during the day session, but is restricted to the Mega Creatures Night Safari area during the night session, other areas are off limits for the safety of our guests. Individual tickets required for each session, discounted return tickets available. *Rides are user pay, height restrictions apply. Some activities may not open in adverse weather conditions or unscheduled maintenance. Each Easter Egg Hunt session has a strictly limited capacity, to ensure the safety of our guests. Book early to secure your preferred session. Easter egg hunt tickets are ONLY available online and are not transferable. EXPERIENCE A MEGA ADVENTURE! Discover amazing creatures with the Mega Creatures day session, flying Pterosaur, Woolly Mammoth and giant Brachiosaurus. Plus, enjoy our amazing rides! Have a spin on our amazing Tea Cup, Carousel, Swing Chair, Ferris Wheel or slide down our Superslide. 5PM - 10PM

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