The No.1 magazine for visitors to Hunter Valley Wine Country | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2021 | ISSUE #193
Christmas Lights Spectacular
HUNTER VALLEY WINE SHOW
MEET THE MAKER AT HANDMADE MARKETS
HAVE A SPRING WINE FLING
CELLAR DOOR
NOW OPEN! JAMES ReYNE
BABY ANIMALS ROSE TATTOO CHOIRBOYS models BOOM CRASH OPERA NICK BARKER AND THE REPTILES
WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU BACK TO THE HUNTER’S LARGEST BEER GARDEN! 2213 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN NSW BOOKINGS REQUIRED FOR WINE TASTING
SATURDAY 5 feb 2022
H U N T E R V A L L E Y
F EST IVA L
SAT 2 & SUN 3
APRIL 2022
17 DECEMBER 2022 HOPE ESTATE, HUNTER VALLEY
HOSPITALIT Y PAC KAGES AVAIL ABLE NOW
IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH...
PUBLISHED BY: WCP Media ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: PH +61 2 4943 2888 www.yourhuntervalley.com.au enquiries@wcpmedia.com.au WCP MEDIA 297 Brunker Road Adamstown, NSW 2289 NOV–DEC 2021 Copyright © 2021 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.
A WORD FROM THE EDITORS
Nov–Dec If you live in the Hunter Valley, you probably already know about the yearly tradition that is the Christmas Lights Spectacular at Hunter Valley Gardens (HVG). This incredible light display is the largest in the Southern Hemisphere and this year has even more to offer regulars and new visitors alike. Visitors to this year's Christmas Lights Spectacular will be joined by cheeky elves tumbling through the gardens, a real-life light-up fairy in the magical Fairyland, and Disney characters wandering through the Storybook Garden. And then there are the light displays! After the 18 months the world has endured, this joyous celebration is sure to bring back the sparkle – it has something for everyone. Read more on page 12. It's always fascinating to learn how our very talented creators and makers got their first break. Making homemade bath products began as a much-needed calming and creative outlet for Alisha Hannah who is this month's Meet the Maker. It wasn't long before repeat requests for Alisha's lovingly created gifts saw the hobby evolve into a fully-fledged business. Read more on page 11. The Hunter Valley Wine Show is one of the country's leading wine shows, attracting the highest calibre of Australian and International judges
9
SPECIAL OFFERS AVAILABLE From16th November 2021 until the 15th December 2021 inclusive, or while stocks last. COVER IMAGE Christmas Lights Spectacular at Hunter Valley Gardens
and celebrating the region's great wines and wine producers. And while this year's award ceremony may have been a little different (like most of 2021, it was Zoomed!), both the awards and the winners have triumphed in the face of adversity to prove that winners certainly are grinners. Find out who's all-smiles on page 25. Spring and Summer are the two favourite seasons of the year and certainly the best time to visit the Hunter Valley with the vines at their glorious best and the warmer weather ideal for spending more time outside and dining al fresco. Rather than sticking to the same old favourites, changing the wine we drink with the seasons is an opportunity to experience a broader range of varietals and pairings. So why not broaden your horizons and check out our favourite wines for Spring on page 28.
Enjoy! FOLLOW US!
is What’s in th Issue? What’s On in November & Beyond
4
Hot in the Hunter
8
Meet the Maker - Brilliantly Blissful Gifts The No.1
magazine
for visitors
to Hunter
Valley Wine
Country
ECEMBER | NOVEMBER-D
A Truly Remarkable Feat - Christmas Lights Spectacular at Hunter Valley Gardens
#193 2021 | ISSUE
Christmas
VALLEY HUNTER WINE SHOW
ular
Lights Spectac
MAKER MEET THE MARKETS AT HANDMADE
SPRING HAVE A WINE FLING
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
12
11
12
Everything is Soft & Cuddly at Alpaca Barn 16 Cosy Iron Designs - Eloquently Unique 22
28
Winners are Grinners at the Hunter Valley Wine Show Perfect Wines for Spring
25
Your Hunter Valley Map
28 30
3 | OCT-NOV 2021 yhv
On? WHAT'S
Events not to miss in the Hunter Valley Region
FIND THE LATEST EVENTS ONLINE AT YOURHUNTERVALLEY.COM.AU
BOONKE
November + BEYOND LOCAL
ONLI
Markets
Wine, Cheese & Chocolate
Handmade in The Hunter Markets At Kevin Sobels Wines
At McGuigan Wines
Immerse yourself in the flavours of the Hunter in this exquisite Wine, Cheese & Chocolate tasting. Relax in a private tasting area with a dedicated wine expert who will help you explore the exceptional wines that have made McGuigan one of the most awarded wineries in the world. You will enjoy a selection of the best seasonal, hand-crafted cheeses from the artisans at Hunter Valley Cheese Factory, plus carefully selected hand made chocolates by artisan chocolatier Maître Pâtissier complementing a range of premium McGuigan dessert and fortified wines. Cost – $25pp pre-paid reservations for parties of 1 to 6 people. Visit www.mcguiganwines.com.au and click on Visit Us to book.
yhv 4 | OCT-NOV 2021
Handmade in the Hunter Markets
20, 21, 27 + 28 NOV, 4, 5, 11, 12, 27, 28 + 29 DEC 9am–3pm
Christmas on John Street
Christmas Lights Spectacular Hunter Valley Gardens
The Christmas Lights Spectacular opened to the public on Friday 5 November and runs until Wednesday 26 January. Experience over three million sparkling lights and the popular displays of Lovers Corner, ‘Hunter’ the giant teddy bear, Around the World and so much more, all whilst wandering through the immaculate gardens. To secure your tickets visit www.hvg.com.au
At Singleton
FRI 10 DEC – 6–9pm
Broke Village Markets At Stewart McTaggart Park SUN 12 AUG – 8am–1pm
The Sunday Muster At Mortels Sheepskin Factory SUN 12 DEC, 9am–2pm
(PLEASE CHECK SOCIALS FOR ANY CANCELLATIONS)
Walking With Llamas Ben Ean, Pokolbin SUN 21 NOVEMBER Enjoy a one hour guided walk through Ben Ean vineyard, accompanied by a friendly llama – your very own walking companion. Head off for a walk (approximately 3km) through the vines with the beautiful backdrop of the Broken Back Mountain
Twisted Beer Week Maitland MON 22 – SUN 28 NOV
range surrounding the vineyard. Bookings are essential – visit www.thellamacollective.com. au or www.facebook.com/ thellamacollective
Twisted Beer Week is coming to Maitland this November. Local businesses, publicans, brewers, and artisans will come together to celebrate all things craft beer. Beer lovers can enjoy a home brewers night at The Pourhouse, treat yourself to some Spanish tapas and beers at CJs at The Levee or cool down with a specialty craft beer from 4 Pines Brewing Company on tap at The Bradford Hotel. Stay up to date with all the events on offer at www.bitterandtwisted.com.au/ twisted-beer-week
Wine Tours & Transfers
The Faulty Towers (Original) Dining Experience Tamburlaine Organic Wines THURS 2 DEC (DOORS OPEN 7PM) Become part of the action as Basil, Sybil and Manuel serve up mayhem on a plate alongside a 3-course meal and two hours of non-stop laughter. Straight from London’s West End via the legendary Sydney Opera House, this international sensation is now returning to Tamburlaine
Organic Wines. The cast for The Lodge @ Tamburlaine Organic Wines features Monique LewisReynolds (Sybil), David Callan (Basil) and Nicholas Richard (Manuel). Tickets are $100pp for dinner + 2-hour show from www.tamburlaine.com.au
Experience the best the Hunter Valley Vineyards have to o�er with a DriveUNow Tour or Transfer. We cater for small groups of 1–6 or 7–10 passengers. We also o�er a VIP Vintage Rolls-Royce tour for two. Bookings are essential.
Ph 0477 626 942 www.driveunow.com.au
Cessnock Contemporary Kiosk at The Tennis Club 4–12 DEC (VIP OPENING 3 DEC) The Cessnock Contemporary exhibition, an exhibition by local SCAMP artists (School Contemporary Art Mentoring Program) will be held in the Kiosk @ The Tennis Club, a uniquely iconic building in Cessnock. The kiosk provides the perfect setting
for a contemporary art exhibition, and this white-painted, trussed pavilion offers the perfect stage to open minds to contemporary art. For more information visit www. cessnockcontemporary.com.au
5 | OCT-NOV 2021 yhv
What's On at Goldfish Goldfish Hunter Valley
Drag Queen Bingo & Trivia with Timberlina! WED 8 DECEMBER Enjoy a night of fun and laughs. Be entertained by the naughty quick wit of Timberlina. Her over the top style and dazzling repertoire will have you in stitches. Free Bingo/Trivia starts 6.30pm
and the full Goldfish menu will be available for dinner. Bookings are essential! Phone 4998 7671 or visit www.thegoldfish.com.au
Grapest 5k Run Dalwood Estate SAT 11 DEC Who said you can’t drink wine AND exercise? Experience a great day out with a little bit of fitness and a whole lot of fun. Work up a thirst with the 5k or 10k course through the amazing winery and surrounds, then enjoy a cool down with the tasting stations in the now famous 1k 'Wine Waddle' before
Dashville's Big Return Weekend Bonanza Dashville putting on some 'Grape' moves with the LIVE entertainment as the sun goes down! See all the juicy details at www.grapest5krun.com.au
Handmade Chocolate Gelato • Gifts 30+ Fudge Flavours Located in Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company has been a family owned and operated Hunter Valley gem for the last 20 years. Visit us at one of our 2 great locations on Broke Road to indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience!
Hunter Valley
Chocolate Company EST. 1999
OPEN 7 DAYS Twenty-3-Twenty (2320 Broke Rd) • Peterson House
Ph 4998 6999 | www.hvchocolate.com.au
yhv 6 | OCT-NOV 2021
FRI 10 – SAT 11 DEC Dashville returns with a banging weekend-long' Christmas Party! Starting with a big Dashville Nights concert on Friday night, then on the Saturday, head
on out to join in on the fun of Dashville's community-famous Christmas Party and Family Portrait Day. Saturday night will again feature some great local live music so why not make the most of it and camp it up for a great weekend of fun and celebration? Tickets and more information available at www.dashville.com.au
The Sunday Muster Mortels Sheepskin Factory SUN 12 DEC, 9AM–2PM The Sunday Muster has a beautiful and interesting selection of handmade and locally made products to tempt, delight and amaze you. Meet the maker or designer and
purchase wonderfully unique products direct from them. Gift yourself or someone else. Enjoy the market atmosphere, relax at the café with indoor and outdoor dining available. As a special treat, there’ll be a visit from Santa and free photos with Santa and The Big UGG boots. www.mortels.com.au
T WO E XPERIENCES...
! n o i t a c o e n L O
Samaritans Christmas Lunch CHRISTMAS DAY SAT 25 DEC FROM 11AM
Singleton Showground
A Picnic at Singleton Showground is the new look for Samaritans Christmas Lunch in Singleton. The lunch is inclusive and organised specifically for those who may otherwise be unable to celebrate with the support of the Northern Agricultural Association. On Christmas Day between 11am and 1pm, hampers with food, drinks, picnic blankets, and gifts, can be
collected from the bistro under the Showground’s grandstand to enjoy on the adjacent lawn under the shady trees. For more information, keep an eye on www.samaritans. org.au or to volunteer email kimcherie.davidson@samaritans. org.au
GARTELMANN WINES Voted one of the Top 10 Cellar Doors to visit in the Hunter Valley, Gartelmann Wines specialise in fine hand-crafted wines using grapes sourced from some of our most famous wine regions.
LIVE MUSIC Every Friday 4:30-7:30pm You’re always welcome at...
Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant
There is nothing quite like a fes�ve sushi pla�er to impress your guests. It tastes healthy, light and delicious. A favourite dining experience for locals and visitors alike. Always fresh... Always vibrant Open 7 days for Lunch and Dinner. Takeaway available 7 days. Roche Estate, Hunter Valley
THE DECK CAFÉ
Corner of Broke Rd & Mcdonald Rd’s Pokolbin, NSW 2320
PH 02 4998 7051 www.oishii.com.au
/OishiiPokolbin
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, LOVEDALE
ASIAN KITCHEN
Amazing Asian Food
Live Music Entertainment FRI – SAT 6pm – Midnight SUN Midday – 4pm
DINE-IN AND TAKEAWAY 220 Vincent St, Cessnock www.railwayhotelcessnock.com.au 02 4990 1070
CELL AR DOOR OPEN 7 DAYS
PH 4930 7113 | WWW.GARTELMANN.COM.AU
THE DECK CAFÉ
BREAKFAST & LUNCH 7 DAYS; DINNER FRI + SAT
PH 4930 9007 | WWW.DECKCAFELOVEDALE.COM.AU
7 | OCT-NOV 2021 yhv
WHAT'S HOT IN THE
Hunter
TA ST E
Fun to Share Goldfish Gigs & Meze Plates What better way is there to celebrate the festive season and the re-opening of our favourite Hunter Valley Cocktail Bar than with Christmas Drinks and Goldfish Gigs at Goldfish Bar & Restaurant? On selected Saturday nights through November and December, get into the Christmas Spirit with free live entertainment. Simply book in for dinner (perhaps try one of the new Meze Share Plates with a Summer Cocktail Jug) and enjoy a great night out. Festive Fun & Live Entertainment at Goldfish: • 27 November (with Half Nelson) • 4 December (with Half Nelson) • 11 December (with Franky's House Band) • 18 December (with the Mitch Williamson Trio) Book now – but be quick – weekends are filling up fast! Phone (02) 4998-767or visit www.thegoldfish.com.au/ bookings to book online.
VINE YA R D
Bo ut i q u e H u nt e r W i ne s
An Epic Tasting Experience at Hungerford Hill No trip to the Hunter Valley is complete without a visit to Hungerford Hill's award-winning cellar door to experience their Epic Tasting. Designed for the discerning palate, it brings together the best of wine and food in perfect harmony… it's a moment you'll never forget. Featuring a mini-degustation of Hungerford Hill wines matched to bite-sized dishes created by award-winning two-hatted Muse Restaurant. Let their expert staff guide you through each tasting course with in-depth knowledge of food and wine pairings. Awarded Best Cellar Door with Food in the 2019 Gourmet Traveller Wine Awards, this is an experience for all travellers, foodies and wine lovers alike. Hungerford Hill Wines is open daily from 10am – 5pm. To book your experience, visit www.hungerfordhill.com.au
WE BELIEVE IN THE SIMPLE THINGS IN LIFE. THEY JUST NEED TO BE AMAZING.
The Oakey Ridge CSG A skilful blend of hand-picked Chardonnay and Semillon from our estate vineyard along Oakey Ridge, with the addition of some Adelaide Hills Pinot Gris. A wonderfully fresh white wine with a complex and pleasing aroma. It shows lovely citrus, stone fruits and pears on the palate. This is surely the best of the Summer Wine!
2 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin Cellar Door open for tastings Sat & Sun, 10am 4pm www.kelmanvineyard.com.au Small groups welcome – call 0492 993 282
yhv 8 | OCT-NOV 2021
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 FRI, SAT & SUN; DINNER FRI & SAT Open Mother’s Day Sunday 9th May, Lunch and Dinner
EXPLORE
Gigi & Chix
Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village Located in the heart of Wine Country, the Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village has something for everyone! Discover a unique collection of bespoke shops offering everything from delicious sweets, stunning jewellery to local wines! While you're exploring the village, why not taste some shimmering spirits at Small Mouth Vodka, pop into Gigi & Chix Bonbon for a delicious pastry (or linger longer for hightea) or simply make the most of the beautiful weather and have a picnic on the grounds and let the kids run wild on the playground! To find out extended opening hours throughout the Christmas Lights Spectacular, visit www.hvg.com.au
RS EDPITI O CK NOVEM
BER
Luscious Local Dining
BREAKFAST | LUNCH | DINNER
Hunter Farm is Home to... • 4 Pines at The Farm • Hunter Farm Adventure Centre • Hunter Valley Resort • Hunter Valley Segway and Horseriding Tours
Tyrrells Hunter Gardens/ Cessnock
Broke Road
Deasys Road
Mistletoe Lane
THE FARM/ HUNTER VALLEY RESORT Old
Nort
h Ro
ad
Singleton/ Branxton
Hermitage Road
Centrally located in the heart of Pokolbin, just a short stroll from the world-class Hunter Valley Gardens and wineries, The Cellar Restaurant offers modern contemporary inspired cuisine focusing on flavours and textures. Providing the ultimate dining experience, the team of skilled chefs proudly showcase their seasonal menu full of fresh and flavoursome dishes. Open for both lunch and dinner, it's time to make the most out of your Hunter Valley experience and unwind in this delightful restaurant – surrounded by lush indoor gardens or alfresco dining, The Cellar Restaurant is ideal for those balmy summer, daylight saving evenings. Open for lunch from noon and dinner from 6pm Monday to Saturday, book now at www.the-cellar-restaurant.com.au
OPEN 7 DAYS
New England Highway
917 Hermitage Road Pokolbin www.huntervalley.com.au | (02) 4998 7777 9 | OCT-NOV 2021 yhv
SIP
FOOD VAN ONSITE SAT–SUN
WEEKENDS AT SADDLER’S Saturdays & Sundays
GREAT WINE + FOOD + LIVE MUSIC BOOK ONLINE WWW.SADDLERSCREEK.COM.AU
Small Mouth Vodka Small Mouth Vodka has released a shimmering elderflower gin that is highly aromatic with (you guessed it) floral notes! Perfect for Spring sipping, the musky and delicious flavour of the elderflower with hints of juniper and citrus is both refreshing and sweet. Enjoy neat on the rocks or with your choice of mixer. We recommend Tonic Water as it will change colour from purple to pink! A sprig of mint is the perfect decoration. RRP $75 / 500ml @ 40%. Visit www.smallmouthvodka.com and book your tasting today!
Morpeth Antique Centre Discover 21 dealers
And The Servant’s Quarters Tearoom, all under one roof. All things Ancient, Antique, Vintage, Retro, Heirloom, Collectable.
OPEN Thursday to Sunday, 10am–5pm Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day & Boxing Day
15 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin Open 7 Days 10am–5pm | Ph 02 4991 1770
yhv 10 | OCT-NOV 2021
175 Swan Street, Morpeth, Hunter Valley PH 02 4933 1407 E info@morpethgallery.com www.morpethantiquecentre.com
Brilliantly Blissful Gifts
MEET THE MAKER
WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN Making homemade bath products began as a much-needed calming and creative outlet for Elermore Vale's Alisha Hannah. But it wasn't long before repeat requests for her lovingly-created gifts saw the hobby evolve into a fully-fledged business under the banner of The Bliss Cartel. "I started making bath products around five years ago, initially as gifts for birthdays etc.," says Alisha. "I made these products as a way to be creative and to give me a bit of 'me-time'. When I had my children, I suffered from horrible post-natal depression and used creative outlets as a way to calm my mind and relax. "I love making things as gifts as I feel like it gives a real personal touch … (but) after I gifted items to people, I started to get return customers asking me for more and more, so that is what made me decide to take it from a hobby to a business." The indulgent Bliss Cartel range includes everything from bath soaks and heat packs to body scrubs and facemasks, with each product handmade in what Alisha says is a labour of love. All my products are very feminine, vintage-inspired and their main aim is to make the purchaser feel relaxed and indulgent. "If I'm looking to come up with a new product, I think of things I'd like to try personally and then tweak them, so they are unique.
"The time it takes to make each one varies, but a lot of the time is in the preparation - perfecting recipes, creating labels, choosing fragrance combinations, cutting and measuring fabric, choosing designs. "I am a 100 per cent handmade business, and as we say at the markets - handmade is slowly made! It's definitely a process, but a labour of love." While it can often be hard for a maker to choose their favourite creation, Alisha said one product, in particular, is a stand-out favourite from The Bliss Cartel range. "My favourite product is my Lavender Eye Pillows. I have many around my house!" she said. "They are surprisingly so versatile. I have a few that live in my freezer and are used for headaches, kids' temperatures and even as ice packs! And I have others that I heat and use as heat packs. "The lavender fragrance in them adds that extra bit of indulgence and relaxation." To check out Alisha's whole range of products, stop by The Bliss Cartel stall at this month's Handmade in the Hunter Markets, which will be held at Sobels Wines from 9am to 3pm on November 20 + 21 + 27 + 28, followed by markets on December 4 + 5 + 11 + 12. For more information about market dates and cancellations due to weather – visit www.handmadehuntermarkets.com.au.
“Largest range of
Stock up for Summer at The Garden Cellars
Purchase 12 Garden Cellars wines for only $144. Tastings available daily.
local brews 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 H d u Wine an Vodka Distillery s tasting daily! available
THE GARDEN
CELLARS
You will find us at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village Broke Road, Pokolbin OPEN 7 DAYS 10am - 5pm | PH 4998 7466 www.gardencellars.com.au
11 | OCT-NOV 2021 yhv
A Truly
Remarkable Feat
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SPECTACULAR AT HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS
WORDS LIANE MORRIS If you live in the Hunter Valley, you probably already know about the yearly tradition that is the Christmas Lights Spectacular at Hunter Valley Gardens (HVG). This incredible light display is the largest in the Southern Hemisphere and, this year has even more to offer regulars and new visitors alike. A favourite of families, lovers and everyone keen to get into the Christmas spirit, this mesmerising display encompasses 5 hectares of the 14-hectare gardens and utilises over 3 million lights. It opened to the public on Friday, 5 November and will run through until Australia Day 26 January 2022, every evening from 5.30pm until 10.30pm. Amanda Andrews, Event Manager of Hunter Valley Gardens, says, "After another difficult year for many Australians, we are thrilled to invite people back to the Christmas Lights Spectacular. It is truly the perfect escape for families and their loved ones to relax and enjoy our rides, attractions and lights as we embrace the Christmas season." Staff at HVG work on the display year-round – planning, sourcing and installing, but with covid restrictions taking up such a significant portion of the year, this year was more challenging than most. What would
yhv 12 | OCT-NOV 2021
typically take a team of 12 three months to install was done in just four weeks this year. It is a truly remarkable feat. Visitors will be thrilled to see lots of old favourites such as the Lovers Tunnel, where it's pretty popular (and somewhat successful!) to pop the question and is the perfect opportunity to indulge in a romantic festive getaway. Kids will be excited to see 'Hunter', the giant illuminated teddy bear again, as well as the Giant Castle. For those that have been missing travel, the Around the World display enables you to visit famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Edinburgh Castle, London's Big Ben, the Statue of Liberty, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Colosseum and the Taj Mahal as well as our own Sydney Opera House. The team are excited by this year's new additions. One such addition is the new waterfall display that took one team member a whole week to fix 32,500 lights by hand to the framework. There are new Mega Trees along the edge of the lake with a light sequence set to music. Look out for the dancing Santa and reindeer in the trees, and don't miss the giant Bauble Tree. This year Santa has his very own purpose-built Santa's Cave, where he and his elves will be available for Santa photos every night until 24 December.
A visit to the Christmas Lights Spectacular would not be complete without taking a spin on one or all of the HVG rides. Be bold on the daring 35-metre-long Super Slide, which is back for the first time since 2019, get dizzy on the Swing Chairs as you fly 11 metres off the ground, or try the twisty twirly Teacups, relax on the 25-metre-high Ferris Wheel and take in the amazing views or take a charming spin on the traditional Venetian Carousel. This year, there are more food offerings with a delicious selection of food and beverage stalls, including woodfired pizza, Mexican Cantina, German Grill Haus, and a dessert tent. "The Hunter Valley region is known for its outstanding food, and the Christmas Lights Spectacular will be no different, with an array of delicious options that will keep your Christmas spirits up all night long,"
says Srinivas Gopal, General Manager of the Roche Group Hospitality and Leisure Division. Another exciting new development this year is the combined day and evening pass so that visitors can enjoy the full garden experience during the daytime as well as the evening's Christmas Lights Spectacular. Enjoy everything the gardens have to offer during the day, exit by 4:30pm when the gardens have to be vacated, enjoy a beverage at a nearby winery or pub, and return from 5:30pm when the light shows begin. It's the perfect day out. There is also plenty of live entertainment to be enjoyed this year, with each month offering slightly different options, opening up the opportunity to visit the Christmas Lights Spectacular more than once during the season and enjoying new experiences each time. (Continued next page) F
13 | OCT-NOV 2021 yhv
PLAN YOUR VISIT NOVEMBER • Monday – Wednesday - Find a real light-up fairy in the magical Fairyland. • Friday, Saturday and Sunday - Spot the roving Christmas characters, reindeers, penguins, snowmen, elves. • Friday and Saturday - The Amazing Jono, a magic stunt clown and Bravissimo, a one-man circus act with hoops, will entertain the crowds. (Continued) Visitors will be joined by cheeky elves tumbling through the gardens, a real-life light-up fairy in the magical Fairyland, and Disney characters wandering through the Storybook Garden. To light up your Christmas spirit, you can also tune in to the sound of Christmas with roving carolers every night in December up to Christmas Eve. The Amazing Jono will thrill his audience with his magical stunts, and the one-man circus act that is the incredible Bravissimo will groove and hoop to delight everyone every Friday and Saturday during November and January. Everyone on the team at HVG is excited to be back at work and keen to see visitors streaming through the gates. With regional travel now back, visitors from further afield can take a long-awaited trip to get away and enjoy everything the Hunter Valley has to offer with the Christmas Lights Spectacular a centrepiece of the action, perfect for the festive season. HVG is just a 2-hour drive from Sydney and is ideal for a weekend break for families. Local wineries, restaurants and accommodation providers will benefit from the drawcard of the Christmas Lights Spectacular. "We have carefully implemented COVID-safe measures to ensure everyone can attend safely and finish off the year joyfully. We look forward to inviting everyone to this magical event as we celebrate the Christmas season and a wonderful New Year," says Kim Jacob's, HVG Marketing Manager.
DECEMBER • 1st – 24 December - Roving Carolers will ensure the festive spirit brings a warm glow to your heart. • Thursday, Friday and Saturday - Tumbling Elves will surprise and delight you with their antics. • 1st – 24 December - The Countdown to Christmas includes appearances by all your favourite licensed characters, including Elmo, Care Bears, Paw Patrol, Minions, Snoopy, Trolls, Cat in the Hat, Hello Kitty, Peter Rabbit, The Gingerbread Man and more. • New Year's Eve - A sparkling fireworks display will light up the sky at 9pm. JANUARY • Monday – Wednesday - Find a real light-up fairy in the magical Fairyland. • Thursday, Friday and Saturday - Wander through the storybook garden and find real-life Disney princesses. • Thursday, Friday and Saturday - Real life Fairies can be found in the storybook garden too! • Friday and Saturday - The Amazing Jono, a magic stunt clown, and Bravissimo, a one-man circus act with hoops, will entertain the crowds.
s ’ sall er tt Ta
TAKE-AWAYS
NEW LOOK!
The Best Old School Aussie Hamburger and Beer Battered Fish and Chips in the Hunter
HOTEL GRETA
Tattersalls Hotel Greta is a family friendly pub with an old fashioned bar atmosphere, perfectly located minutes from the Hunter Valley vineyards. FAMILIES | FINEST THAI & TRADITIONAL PUB FOOD | BEER + COCKTAILS | COFFEE | CLUB MEETINGS TAB KENO | HENS/BUCK PARTIES | PRIVATE DINING & PIANO | ACCOMMODATION | FAMILY HAIRDRESSER
88 High Street, Greta | Ph (02) 4938 7302 | OPEN 7 DAYS
The Cheesiest
Platter Of Your Dreams! 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
OPEN 10AM–5PM 7 DAYS | Ph 4998 6660 | www.binnorie.com.au
yhv 14 | OCT-NOV 2021
TICKETING NIGHT
Adult $32.00 Children (4-15 yrs.) $25.00 Children (3 yrs. & Under) FREE Family (2ad+1chd) $79.00 Family (2ad+2chd) $99.00 Extra Child (with Family) $22.00 Rides tokens are $5 per ride or $25 for a Bonus Ride Pack of 6 tokens.
COMBINED DAY / NIGHT PASSES
Experience the best of both worlds with the HVG day/night pass. Beautiful Gardens by day, and as the sun goes down, enjoy the stunning Christmas Lights Spectacular. Passes are valid for one day and one night entry on the same day. Gardens are open from 9:00am - 4:30pm and Christmas Lights Spectacular from 5:30pm - 10:30pm. Visitors must exit the gardens between 4.30pm and 5.30pm.
GROUP RATES
If you are visiting Christmas Lights Spectacular with a group of 12 adults or more, HVG offers excellent rates for social groups, schools, afterschool care. To be eligible for these rates, you must book in advance with the HVG Groups Department. Email groups@hvg.com.au for more details.
Photo: DNSW Cassandra Hannagan
Tickets are only available online in advance of your visit. NSW Dine & Discover vouchers can only be used for purchasing ride passes and at selected food stalls. Unfortunately, NSW Dine & Discover vouchers cannot be used for online ticket purchases. HVG are following all government guidelines in relation to COVID restrictions, proof of vaccination will be required in line with these guidelines. Gates will open at 5:30pm and will close at 10:30pm. Christmas Lights Spectacular tickets are on sale now from the HVG website www.huntervalleygardens.com.au/events/christmaslights-spectacular and prices include:
Adult $49.00 Children (4-15 yrs.) $39.00 Children (3 yrs. & Under) FREE Family (2ad+1chd) $119.00 Family (2ad+2chd) $149.00 Extra Child (with Family) $37.00
A RT G A L L E RY | S C U L P T U R E WA L K | C E L L A R D O O R Spanning 130 breathtaking acres, Winmark is not just a premium Chardonnay producer, but a destination designed to connect guests with nature, art and the vineyard. The former awardwinning vineyard has been re-established and is once again producing exceptional Chardonnays.
The Winmark Art Gallery has opened alongside the new Cellar Door, overlooking grounds that are a wonderland of their own. Karin’s long held dream of curating a gallery to introduce some amazing artists she discovered through her travels, as well as creating a home for an extraordinary collection of sculptures, has come to life.
A R T G A L L E R Y A N D C E L L A R D O O R O P E N 7 DAY S T: 02 9997 5373 | E: info@winmarkwines.com.au | 229 Wollombi Road, Broke NSW 2330, Australia @winmarkwines | winmarkwines.com.au
15 | OCT-NOV 2021 yhv
EVERYTHING'S SOFT & CUDDLY AT ALPACA
The Australian Alpaca Barn is a family-owned business initially established to sell and promote Australian alpaca products made from alpaca fibre grown in Australia. Since then, both the business and the industry as a whole have grown exponentially, with the store now also specialising in the quality alpaca products made from alpaca fibre grown and manufactured not only in Australia but also from New Zealand and Peru. The owners of the Australian Alpaca Barn (Marion and Michael Jack) also run their own herd of alpaca in the Hunter's beautiful Lambs Valley area, with a herd of over 100. If you're looking for a perfectly unique Christmas gift, you'll find something for everyone at the Alpaca Barn. Within the store, visitors can savour the quality of alpaca coats, sweaters, shawls, scarves, gloves, beanies, socks, throw rugs, quilts, bedding, pillows, blankets, knitting yarns (for those crafty friends) and even alpaca silver jewellery. For the kiddies, there's a great range of handmade soft toys, including alpaca teddies, soft alpacas, felted alpacas, and beautiful needle felted Aussie animals too. You'll find three Alpaca Barns In the Hunter Valley, with a shop at Hunter Valley Gardens, a second at Peppers Creek Village and a third located within the historic township of Morpeth. All three shops are open seven days a week from 10am to 4pm. Visit www.australianalpaca.com for more information and to shop online.
AUSTRALIAN ALPACA BARN
yhv 16 | OCT-NOV 2021
Book in for a delicious High Tea!
FRENCH PATISSERIE
HIGH TEA • PASTRIES • COFFEE & TEA ABOUT GIGI & CHIX BONBON We are a contemporary Parisian Patisserie specialising in delicious pastries that not only taste delightful but look fabulous as well. The menu includes a stunning range of cakes, pastries and savouries made from scratch using only the best ingredients as well as the famous ‘The Grounds of Alexandria’ Coffee. We also have an exclusively local wine list to choose from. So, discover our brand-new patisserie at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village today. Due to high demand (especially weekends) we encourage you to book so you don’t miss out! Visit our website to book online.
AT HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS SHOPPING VILLAGE OPEN Thursday & Friday 9am–4pm | Saturday 9am–3.30pm | Sunday 9am–3pm | Monday 9am–4pm | Closed Tuesday & Wednesday PH 02 4998 7050 | info@gigichix.com.au
www.gigichix.com.au
17 | OCT-NOV 2021 yhv
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.
USE YOUR DINE & DISCOVER VOUCHERS HERE
OPEN Thursday & Friday 10am–4.30pm | Saturday 10am–5.30pm Sunday & Monday 10am–4.30pm
PH 18 1300 9582021 939 | OCT-NOV yhv
| www.sabordessertbar.com.au
What's Happening at HOPE ESTATE
EASY-DRINKING & CRAFTY ADVENT CALENDARS! Celebrate each day in December with a different beer from the Hope Brewery range! From pales to sours, stouts to NEIPAs, the Brewery Team have selected some of their favourites for you to enjoy in two selections - Easy Drinking and Crafty. The Easy Drinking case is a mix of pales, lagers, some lower ABV beers and some core craft beers that go down a treat! (RRP $99 – valued at $144) The Crafty case is for the beer geek who expects nothing but the most interesting and unique range of flavours! A mix of sours, IPAs, NEIPAs, stouts, porters and limited release seasonals. (RRP $159 – valued at $229) Both Advent Calendars can be purchased online at www.hopeestate.com.au (freight charges apply) or by visiting the brewery at 2213 Broke Rd, Pokolbin.
The Cellar Restaurant delivers modern contemporary Australian cuisine, utilising local and seasonal quality ingredients. Dine in our indoor garden setting or outside in the courtyard.
INTERNATIONAL ACTS ARE BACK, BABY! It may be a little way off, but in a sure sign that live music is back and things are returning to normal, Hope Estate has announced that The Killers will perform an outdoor concert on Saturday, 17 December 2022. Promoters, Frontier Touring, are thrilled to welcome The Killers back to Australia and New Zealand for a massive nine-date mix of arena and outdoor shows on their Imploding The Mirage Tour 2022. Originally announced in 2020 when COVID first halted worldwide touring, this will be The Killers' first time back on our shores since their 2018 Australasian tour, which included ten completely sold-out arena shows. The Killers will tour our shores as part of the Imploding The Mirage Tour 2022, playing headline shows and festivals across the globe in celebration of their sixth studio album, the critically-acclaimed ARIA #1 album Imploding The Mirage (out now through Island Records/Universal Music Australia) and it's lead-single Caution. Soak up the atmosphere of live music in the heart of Hunter Valley wine country at the home of Australia's largest purpose-built outdoor winery concert amphitheatre. Live music is back, so be sure to secure your tickets as this show is not to be missed! For more information, visit www.hopeestate.com.au
Try our NEW MENU! 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 19 | OCT-NOV 2021 yhv
Re-Discover Mortels
Factory, Store, Museum and Café... all at this location!
FIND US
Located 2.5km from the end of the M1 1 Weakleys Drive, Thornton. Open 7 Days Visit www.mortels.com.au for more information
Emma’s Cottage Vineyard · Cellar Door & Art Gallery
Open Friday 12pm–4pm, Saturday 10am–5pm & Sunday 10am–2pm · Gallery open other times by appointment 438 Wilderness Road, Lovedale 2320 · Ph (02) 4998 7734 · www.emmascottage.com.au
Come in and try our top shelf spirits through a unique test tube tasting experience!
OPEN FOR TASTINGS AND SALES 7 DAYS, 10AM–5PM Bookings essential 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH (02) 4998 6737 E info@hunterdistillery.com.au www.hunterdistillery.com.au Check out local artist Tanya Loviz from Loviz Art Gallery’s amazing new piece “Cocktail-In-Fusion” inspired by Hunter Distillery. www.lovizarts.com.au/shop
yhv 20 | OCT-NOV 2021
PUT A LOCAL IN YOUR POCKET And Find... The Garden Cellars WORDS DI VON ESSEN A short trip to the Hunter Valley will no doubt leave you wishing you'd allowed more time to experience and taste the delights of the region. You may be surprised to learn that Wine Country boasts more than 150 cellar doors and over 60 restaurants. This means you may need some help getting the most of your time here. The mobile optimised Hunter Valley Guide (which can be found at www. huntervalleyguide.com.au) requires no app downloading or updating and is always available to help guide you to your next favourite winery or restaurant. Each month we'll be bringing you our guideusers faves right here!
The Garden Cellars is undoubtedly an essential stop for beer lovers, but this expansive store located at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village entrance (with plenty of parking) showcases so much more! It's one of the oldest cellar door complexes in the Hunter Valley and walking through the door, you will certainly feel like you've stepped back in time a little. While the buildings that once housed tastings for Hungerford Hill still showcase a wide range of Hunter Valley reds and whites, its current tenant, The Garden Cellars, is known for more than just great wine (did we mention the beer?). If you're looking for premium wines (including fortified wines), beers and spirits, The Garden Cellars stock products that are sure to cater to everybody's tastes. With a range as extensive as the one on offer at The Garden Cellars, the staff certainly have plenty of products to stay up-to-date with especially when it comes to the business's famed "Tunnel of Beer", which has become an essential stop for any beer enthusiast visiting the Hunter Valley. The Garden Cellars have also stayed true to the site's cellar door heritage, now acting as the main distribution and tasting point for Hunter Valley wineries Three Ponds, Monkey Place Creek and Polin & Polin. The tunnel of beer is impressive, with over 800 different beers from around the world. If you can't find a beer that you love in the tunnel – then give up! The range includes beers, ciders, alcoholic ginger beers, gluten-free beers, alcohol-free beers and seltzers. You'll find daily tastings of a range of tipples – from wine to vodka and everything in between. The Garden Cellars is open daily from 10am until 5pm, seven days a week. It’s best to book ahead at www.gardencellars. com.au – where you can even take a virtual tour.
21 | OCT-NOV 2021 yhv
Wrought Iron Vine Sculpture at Ivanhoe Wines
NEW
Programme , Activities and Animals
Hunter Valley
AT HILLTOP Wine Country’s Native Wildlife Sanctury Lovedale’s Hill Top Farm Stay Spectacular Valley Views • Riding over 300 acres Trail Rides for Adults and Children, for Beginners and Experienced Riders Personalised Rides • Marriage Proposals • Weddings on Horseback Pony Rides • Pony Parties • Family Rides • Sunset Rides Picnic Rides • BBQ • Tractor Hay Rides to Feed the Farm Animals Peddle Go Karts for Ages 5 – 99 Years 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 So close to all of Wine Country’s attractions, yet you feel a million miles away..
COSY IRON DESIGNS Eloquently Unique In an age of mass production where the art of handcrafting sometimes seems all but lost, master craftspeople like René Rasmussen of Cosy Iron Design are a rare find. When you order a handmade wrought-iron product from Cosy Iron, you’re not just getting a piece of metal. Instead, you’re getting a physical manifestation of an age-old artisanal craft and the culmination of 50+ years of experience from the artistic blacksmith. In fact, a drive around Wine Country is all that’s needed to reveal some beautiful bespoke pieces created by René, adding an elegant finishing touch to both wineries and restaurants alike. Make 2021 the year you commission a piece from Cosy Iron Design. And be sure to treasure it, knowing that you genuinely have a one-off original from a master. For more info on the products and services available, or to obtain a quote for your next unique project, call 4981 7174, or visit www.cosyiron.com.au
HAND FORGED WROUGHT IRON • EXCLUSIVE DESIGNS UNCOMPROMISING QUALITY Since 1784
Specialising in artistic restoration and new works, Danish born René Rasmussen has the blacksmith’s skill to restore and recreate the style of yesteryear in many creative and varied forms. When you walk in Rene’s blacksmith shop, you will get the feeling you walk 100 years back in history. Fire in the coal forge, and tools that are 100, even 150 years old. If the tools could talk, you'd have part of the history here.
~ Former blacksmith and farrier for the Queen of Denmark ~ Former blacksmith and farrier for Carlsberg breweries ~ Traditional Danish Family Blacksmiths since 1784
For any enquiries please contact the Office
71 Branxton Street, Greta NSW 2334 Ph 4981 7174 | M 0402 190 835 E cosyiron@optusnet.com.au www.cosyiron.com.au yhv 22 | OCT-NOV 2021
“Quality Without Compromise”
5-Star Winery 2007 to 2021
“WE ARE FAMILY” ES
HA L L I DAY 2
02 0
J AM
MISTLETOE is a small, family owned and run, vineyard and winery that was established by the current owners in 1989. TOP 100
AUSTRALIAN
WINE
–
95
P O IN TS
–
NOW G! TASTIN ve ser 2019 Re n Semillo
Now in its 31st year, Mistletoe’s “no-compromise” approach to producing small quan��es of “true to origin” premium quality wine has seen it rewarded with many, many hundreds of awards and accolades. With three genera�ons of the founding family now ac�vely engaged in running the business on a day to day basis, Mistletoe is a truly unique family winery. With over 20 different wines, including Sparkling, Whites, Reds, Rosés, For�fed and Dessert styles on tas�ng, Mistletoe has one of the most comprehensive ranges of wines seen in the Hunter. COVID-19 PROTOCOLS So we can offer you a safe, informa�ve, and sa�sfying, wine-tas�ng experience, it is essen�al to make a tas�ng reserva�on by calling Mistletoe on 1800-055-080.
OPEN AGAIN FOR TASTINGS FROM OCTOBER 29TH
• All wines are made in our onsite winery • Working vineyard on site • Mistletoe Wines are only available for purchase from the Winery Cellar Door • Knowledgeable and friendly staff to make you welcome • “Simply the Best” – No-obliga�on to purchase Wine Club. With Pokolbin Fine Art Gallery and Mistletoe Sculpture Garden located on site it makes Mistletoe a must see, a very special place to visit, a place that Hunter wine country visitors return to time and time again. To learn more about our area go to www.aroundhermitage.com.au We look forward to welcoming you! - The Mistletoe Family.
Open 10am–5pm 7 days | 771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin
23 | OCT-NOV 2021 yhv PH 1800 055 080 | E office@mistletoewines.com.au | www.mistletoewines.com.au
Sunrise Flights over the Hunter Valley
$20 OFF Promo Code Take20
40 years experience!
Use this code to receive $20 off applicable tickets when booking online
www.balloonaloft.com
Small Mouth has you covered this Spring... Small Mouths Shimmering Passionfruit Vodka is a delicious spring time burst of passionfruit, with beautiful scent of the passionfruit �owers! This Passionfruit Vodka is 40% alcohol but is dangerously smooth and will catch you o� guard. Delicious and Sweet, we are passionate that this is a must have!
FREE LOCAL DELIVERY* AND AUSTRALIA WIDE SHIPPING We are o�ering free local contactless delivery daily to Cessnock, Rutherford, Maitland, Kurri Kurri and surrounds! Same day delivery when ordered by 1pm*
A Small Mouth doesn't have room for just anything... 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.
Find us at
HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS SHOPPING VILLAGE, BROKE ROAD, POKOLBIN. For any bookings phone 0492 031 862 or email info@smallmouthvodka.com
smallmouthvodka.com
SmallMouthVodka
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
Bookings are a MUST! yhv 24 | OCT-NOV 2021
725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley www.tintilla.com.au #tintillaestate
RUNNING HORSE WINES The most unique cellar door in Broke... A must visit! Specialising in Aged Wines
WINNERS ARE GRINNERS
at the Hunter Valley Wine Show 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 11am 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
The Hunter Valley Wine Show, one of the country's leading wine shows, attracts the highest calibre of Australian and International judges and celebrates the region's great wines and wine producers. Now in its 49th year, judges announced the 2021 winners via an online awards ceremony earlier this month. Delayed from the initial run in August and with COVID restrictions once again challenging proceedings, the prestigious show has triumphed in the face of adversity. Of the 645 wines and 4000 bottles entered, there were more gold medals awarded per class than previous years, and in a nod to the quality of this year's entries, 25 of the 26 trophies were also awarded. Highly acclaimed wine judge, PJ Charteris, presided over this year's panel of nine judges. As an experienced winemaker with more than 25 years of winemaking experience, PJ is one of the country's top Wine Show Judges, has judged at many regional wine shows and is currently the Chairman of Judges for the Royal Sydney Wine Show. A Kiwi native, PJ has spent much of his professional career working in the Australian wine industry spending time at Penfolds and Lindemans before being appointed Chief Winemaker at Brokenwood, where he remained for twelve years. Despite the 2020 vintage conditions, PJ commended the strength of the 2021 Semillon classes. The judges were spoilt for choice in the red classes, with 2017, 2018 and 2019 all performing strongly. PJ highlighted the 2018 wines with a deep core of fruit that will see them mature exceptionally well, whilst the 2019 wines show a freshness and purity giving them instant appeal. The Iain Riggs Wine of Provenance was awarded to Mount Pleasant for its Lovedale Semillon 2009, 2014 and 2019. The provenance classes produced three very good brackets of wines which, according to PJ, were very difficult to split, demonstrating "why the Hunter is a unique and special wine region". "As this is a regional show, the judging team are focused on the unique expression that the Hunter Valley is capable of producing, and this (Continued next page) F
25 | OCT-NOV 2021 yhv
PJ Charteris Credit: Chris Elfes
(Continued) year's entries did not disappoint," said PJ. "It should come as no surprise that Semillon performed incredibly well. Considering the recent run of great vintages in the red classes, the strength of the 17, 18 and 19 reds is worth highlighting. Whilst the 2020 harvest produced challenges for winemakers, Hunter Valley winemakers have responded with careful and considered winemaking to give wines that belied the conditions." First Creek Wines took out a trifecta for its 2014 Single Vineyard Blackcluster Semillon, winning the Petrie-Drinan Trophy Best White Wine of the Show, as well as the Tyrrell Family Trophy for Best Single Vineyard White and Len Evans Trophy for Best Single Vineyard Wine. The Doug Seabrook Memorial Trophy for Best Red Wine of the Show was awarded to De Iuliis for its 2019 Limited Release Shiraz, which also won the Hector Tulloch Memorial Trophy Best Shiraz. It was a day of hard-earned celebrations for both First Creek Wines and De Iuliis, who took home 12 of the trophies between them. The judges also made particular mention of the Chardonnay entries. "In this exceptionally competitive space, it is really impressive to see the Hunter Valley developing its own Chardonnay style". Verdelho, Vermentino and Fiano also continued to perform well and improve year on year," noted PJ.
“The Next Generation of Hunter Valley Wines” 312 Mount View Road, Mount View
WINE TASTINGS, CHEESE PLATES & ARTISAN PANTRY
www.savannahestate.com.au | 02 4990 6326 | wine@savannahestate.com.au
yhv 26 | OCT-NOV 2021
THE 2021 CCL HUNTER VALLEY WINE SHOW
TROPHY WINNERS Best Current Semillon Brokenwood 2021 Tallawanta Vineyard Semillon Best One-Year-Old Semillon Brokenwood 2020 Tallawanta Vineyard Semillon Best Mature Two-Year-Old and Older Semillon First Creek Wines 2014 Single Vineyard Blackcluster Semillon Best Current and One-Year-Old Chardonnay Keith Tulloch Wine 2021 Chardonnay Estate Chardonnay Best Two-Year-Old and Older Chardonnay Silkman Wines 2017 SILK Chardonnay Best "Other White Varietals and White Blends" Trophy Tempus Two 2021 Copper Vermentino Best Verdelho Two Rivers 2021 Hidden Hive Verdelho Best Chardonnay Silkman Wines 2017 SILK Chardonnay Best Off-Dry or Sweet White Wine RidgeView 2018 "Tipple's Gold" Late Harvest Viognier Best Fortified Wine or Vermouth Mount Pleasant Wines NV 25 Year Old Fortified Verdelho Best Museum Red Wine De Iuliis Wines 2007 Limited Release Shiraz Best Museum White Wine Tyrrell's Vineyards Pty Ltd 2006 Vat 1 Semillon Best Single Vineyard White First Creek Wines 2014 Single Vineyard Blackcluster Semillon Best Single Vineyard Red De Iuliis 2019 LDR Vineyard Shiraz Touriga Nacional Best Rosé First Creek Wines 2021 FCR Merlot The Royal Australian Infantry Corps Officers Mess Silver Bullet Margan Family Wines 2019 White Label Ceres Hill Barbera Best Current Vintage and One-Year-Old Shiraz Mercer Wines 2021 Shiraz Nouveau Best Two-Year-Old Shiraz De Iuliis Wines 2019 Limited Release Shiraz Best Three-Year-Old and Older Shiraz Tyrrell's Vineyards Pty Ltd 2018 Old Hillside Shiraz Best "Other Red Varietal and Red Blends" De Iuliis Wines 2019 LDR Vineyard Shiraz Touriga Nacional Best Semillon First Creek Wines 2019 Single Vineyard Blackcluster Semillon Best Shiraz De Iuliis 2019 Limited Release Shiraz Best Single Vineyard Wine First Creek Wines 2014 Single Vineyard Blackcluster Semillon Best White Wine of the Show First Creek Wines 2014 Single Vineyard Blackcluster Semillon Best Red Wine of the Show De Iuliis 2019 Limited Release Shiraz Wine of Provenance Mount Pleasant Lovedale Semillon 2009, 2014, 2019
27 | OCT-NOV 2021 yhv
Perfect Wines for Spring
WORDS QUENTIN VON ESSEN
Spring and Summer are the two favourite seasons of the year and certainly the best time to visit the Hunter Valley with the vines at their glorious best and the warmer weather ideal for spending more time outside and dining al fresco. Rather than sticking to the same old favourites, changing the wine we drink with the seasons is an opportunity to experience a broader range of varietals and pairings. Think crisp, refreshing white wines, lighter, fruit and acid-driven dry or slightly off-dry whites served well chilled - wines that are also compatible with salads, shellfish, seafood, pasta, fresh cheese, anti-pasta and white meats To help you reach for the perfect bottle every time, we've compiled a selection of wines to get you through the season. With its crisp, herbal edge and refreshing acidity, Sauvignon Blanc is a must-have in your white wine collection this Spring. It's an excellent wine for everyday drinking and gets a thumbs up from many wine drinkers. With or without food, Hunter Valley Semillon is the wine to drink this Spring. Naturally low in alcohol, Hunter Semillon is the ideal partner for the season's lighter fish and seafood meals. When young, it's great with fresh oysters, cooked prawns and white-fleshed fish. With age, it is lovely when served with smoked trout or salmon, roast chicken, lobster with burnt butter and other flavoursome dishes. With its fresh, tropical fruit characters, un-oaked style, and sheer drinkability, Australian Verdelho is very much the all-rounder and just perfect when served with spicy Asian cuisines or simply enjoyed on its own on a warm day. While it is widely grown throughout Australia, the Hunter Valley consistently produce some of the best examples of this variety. As far as dry white wines are concerned, Chardonnay is the way to go. It's the crowd-pleaser of white wines and a full-bodied option that completes any Spring evening and a delicious pairing for your cheese and charcuterie board.
yhv 28 | OCT-NOV 2021
As a tangy, dry white wine that is perfectly light and fresh with fruity flavours such as pear, apple and melon, Pinot Gris is a warmer weather wine through and through and can be paired with various food options with ease. A glass of Sparkling Wine is always appropriate, regardless of the time of year. But with the arrival of Spring, a glass of bubbly feels almost mandatory. The wine's temperature and the bubbles themselves make it a refreshing, cooling beverage, and its high acidity makes it ideally suited to lighter foods such as ham, salad, chilled soup and a variety of seafood. Contrary to popular belief, you can sip reds even after Winter has come and gone, so don't shelve your reds just yet. Many red wines have qualities that are wonderful in the warmer weather, lighter, with lower alcohol levels, higher acidity and subtle tannins. Chilled red wines can also be outstanding on a warm day. Rosé is undeniably the first choice for many wine lovers when the weather starts to warm up, and it can be found everywhere – especially when seafood such as tuna or swordfish are on the menu. Thanks to its adaptability, you can pair Rosé with just about any food you can imagine and the perfect partner to barbecued prawns, Moreton Bay bugs and eggplant skewers and spicy dishes. Pinot Noir is without a doubt the first go-to red wine on a warm day and superb with duck, salmon, lamb, pork, mushrooms, cured meats and charcuterie, as well as a range of seafood. While these wines don't need to be too cold, keep them in a wine cellar or refrigerator to ensure the best taste. Easy drinking, fresh and vibrant, Grenache is one of the more seasonable varieties and is very ‘on-trend’ at the moment. Best served with wood-fired pizza, olives and a warm night, Grenache is a wine very much reflective of the Mediterranean climate in which it originates. This Spring, make sure you try something new – perhaps a variety you have never tried before. No matter where you are, with good wine, good food and in the company of some of your favourite people - you just can't go wrong.
Spring Wines TOP DROPS A
SAVANNAH ESTATE 2021 Hunter Valley Pinot Gris
D
Savannah Estate Wines are produced from small select parcels of premium fruit grown in renowned viticulture regions throughout Australia. This Pinot Gris is very much a French style and is best enjoyed under a tree on a sunny afternoon. TASTING Lush ripe tropical jackfruit emerges on the front palate which is complimented by the tart crunch of nashi pear. Towards the mid you are met by the zingy zesty acid profile of grapefruit and fresh bursts of finger lime caviar rounding out the palate with lightly herbaceous kaffir lime FOOD MATCH Moroccan chicken & turmeric with pearl couscous, lemongrass beef rice paper rolls PRICE $27.00 RRP CELLARING Drink Now (why wait?) Shop online now: www.savannahestate.com.au/buy-wine KELMAN VINEYARD Rosé 2021 Salmon pink and made from hand-picked Shiraz and Tempranillo fruit from their vineyard in the Parish of Pokolbin. Ideal for picnics and barbecues. TASTING Refreshing yet subtle this wine has a rounded palate of raspberries and cranberries that finishes savoury and dry. FOOD MATCH Salmon, soft cheeses PRICE $26 CELLARING 1-3 years Shop online now: www.kelmanvineyard.withwine.com/buy/wine B
C
IRON GATE ESTATE 2021 Iron Gate Estate Cabernets Rosé
Inspired by the world’s great winemaking traditions, Iron Gate Estate is a boutique, family-run winery in Pokolbin producing unique, handcrafted wines from estate-grown fruit that captures the true essence of the Hunter Valley. TASTING A delightful, pink- peach coloured blend of predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot that has aromas and flavours of cranberry and raspberry with a savoury edge. Light and elegant, it flits across the tongue, with red berry and watermelon flavours and a refreshingly dry finish. FOOD MATCH Terrific with anything from fruit to cheese, but great with seared salmon. PRICE $30.00 RRP CELLARING 1-3 years. 12% Alc Shop online now: www.irongateestate.com/wines
HANGING TREE WINES 2021 Hanging Tree Rosé
The 2021 vintage had warm days and cool nights, resulting in an optimum ripening season and wine with generous varietal characters. This wine has a crunchy, refreshing acidity that finishes pleasantly juicy with lingering berry and citrus flavours. TASTING Pale salmon pink in colour with lifted strawberry and subtle floral/spice notes. A refreshing palate with intense passionfruit and tropical fruit flavours. The crunchy acidity and well-balanced sweetness complement each other, resulting in fantastic weight and length. FOOD MATCH Light salads, light pasta and rice dishes, grilled white meats and seafood. PRICE $30 CELLARING Enjoy this wine now or cellar for 4-5 years. Shop online now: www.hangingtree.withwine.com/buy/wine E
WINMARK WINES Winmark 2021 Chardonnay
For close to half a century this site has grown exceptional fruit, with a proud history of producing highly acclaimed Chardonnay. In acknowledgement of this, Winmark Wines has devoted the entire estate to Chardonnay. Enjoy this classic expression of the site, as she engages with you over time. TASTING Elderflower and white peach aromas beckon toward a palate of quince and ripe Meyer lemon spiced with nutmeg. FOOD MATCH Winmark 2021 Chardonnay is suitable to a range of dishes from fresh and light to moderately spicy, through to rich and creamy. Seafood is a wonderful match. PRICE $37.00 CELLARING For up to 4 years. Shop online now: www.winmarkwines.com.au/shop F
TAMBURLAINE ORGANIC WINES 2021 Preservative Free Rosé – Hunter Valley
An excellent vintage from their vineyards in the Hunter Valley. Made from certified organic Shiraz, Cabernet and Durif, without the addition of sulphur from the vineyard to the bottle. TASTING Delicate pale pink in colour with lifted pink grapefruit and a generous taste of strawberries. FOOD MATCH Pairs well with Charcuterie or veggie skewers on the BBQ. PRICE $24 CELLARING Drink now Shop online now: www.tamburlaine.com.au/collections
A
F E
C B
D
29 | OCT-NOV 2021 yhv
C
TO SINGLETON
D
E
F
G
H
PUTTY RD
I
TO BLUE MOUNTAINS
RD KE BRO
J
K
Winmark Wines
Hunter Dis�llery
L
Visitor Information Cessnock Airport
DRIV NTRY OU C E
e r t s Road
M
Fletcher St Fleming St
Lomas Lane
Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley
d oa sR Olsen Road
n do Lon
M
Halls Rd
N
POKOLBIN2
D
ad Ro rs e ey eB
De Beyers Rd
Tamburlaine Organic Wines
N WI
Campbells Lne
Londons Rd
D
De Beyers Road
d
Hungerford Hill
Binnorie Dairy
Lodge Road
L
D e Beyers Road
’s R
E IV DR Handmade in the Hunter Markets at Kevin Sobels Wines
Balloon Aloft Pickup Point HV Chocolate Co.
LOVEDA
McGuigan Wines
Blaxland Inn
BROKE ROAD
Sabor Dessert Bar HV Chocolate Co. Hope Estate Dis�llery & Brewery
Oishii Japanese Thai
Brickmans Lane
The Deck Café
Gartelmann Wines
TO NEWCASTLE
TO BRANXTON MAITLAND MORPETH
MORPETH
K
Hunters Quarter Restaurant
Tho mp son
Australian Alpaca Barn Harrigans Hunter Valley
�léments
MCDONALDS ROAD
Ekerts Road
BROKE ROAD
Gigi & Chix Bonbon
The Cellar Restaurant
Small Mouth Vodka
Gillards Road
Green Lane
LOVEDALE
Wilderness Road
Talga Road
HV Horseriding and Adventures
TO WINE COUNTRY DRIVE
Australian Alpaca Barn Morpeth An�que Centre & Campbell’s Store Morpeth Gallery
St Swan
20
J
BROKE
< 15KM >
Byvonne
Roche Estate Goldfish Bar & Restaurant
Palmers Lane
Emma’s Co�age Vineyard
Fleet St
Drinan St
19
ER HUNTER RIV
18
TO MORPETH RD EAST MAITLAND
17
I
The Garden Cellars
OU NT R
C NE
Australian Alpaca Barn
I
Y
Hunter Valley Gardens HVG Shopping Village
Palmers Lane
W
Cl
TO GRETA MAITLAND, THORNTON
D HWY
Lions Park
16
M
POKOLBIN1 (NORTH)
Deasys Road
De
d oa sR asy
d
B lackburn
15 Wydnham St
To Tattersall’s Hotel (Greta) To Mortels (Thornton)
NEW ENGLAN
Tuckers Lane
14
BRANXTON
Sta�on St
H
Running M ILL Horse BR O D Wines ALE RD
HERMITAGE ROAD
Hermitage Road Cellars
Coulso nR
Road rth No
13
k St
G
Thompsons’s Rd
O
Mistletoe Wines Hunter Valley Resort/Hunter Farm Hunter Valley Adventure Centre – Segways, Horseriding, Electric Bikes Hunter Valley Wine Theatre Hunter Valley Wine School 4 Pines at The Farm
ad
Sweetwater Road
Old No rth Ro
Old
TO BRANXTON
12
ST BRIDGE
F
TO SINGLETON
e
Ro ad
11
DR IV
Lan
rth
10
CLIFF ST
Tin�lla Estate
No
9
AY W SS E PR EX
E
Mistle to e
k Hill Rd Ironbar
ld
8
C O UNTRY Tan
Spa/Health Retreat
7
oad Camp R
Markets
6
R TE
Gourmet Produce
TO SINGLETON
5
N HU
Shopping
4
WI NE
Cellar Door
Restaurant
MAP NOT TO SCALE
3 k Rd Par onix Phe
D
Ek
B
C
A
2
B
O LE R
A E
1
A N
e Lan rs ajo
LOVEDALE ROAD
McCarthy Rd
E
MC
Q
R
S
T
U
V
2
3
W
6
X
4 Pines Brewing Co. - at The Farm G5 Hope Brewery K12 Hope Dis�llery K12 Hunter Dis�llery K6 Small Mouth Vodka K9
DISTILLERIES/BREWERIES
7
9
10
4 Pines at The Farm G5 Binnorie Dairy J17 �léments K10 Gigi & Chix Bonbon K10 Goldfish Bar & Restaurant K10 Harrigans Hunter Valley L9 Hunters Quarter M9 Joy Asian Kitchen S19 Oishii Japanese Thai K10 Sabor Dessert Bar K13 Ta�ersall’s Hotel Greta B16 The Cellar Restaurant K10 The Deck Café F18
RESTAURANTS/CAFÉS
8
11
12
Str ee t
13
Hunter Valley Resort F5 Ta�ersall’s Hotel Greta B16 Winmark Wines L4
STAY
Binnorie Dairy J17 Campbell’s Store (Morpeth) C18 HV Chocolate Co. K10/K13/J14 Pokolbin Estate M10 Sabor Dessert Bar K13 Tin�lla Estate E4 The Deck Café F18
GOURMET PRODUCE
D
Tamburlaine Organic Wines M10 Tin�lla Estate E4 The Garden Cellars K10 Winmark Wines L4
5
adee n Rd
Emma’s Co�age Vineyard G14 Gartelmann Wines F18 Hanging Tree Wines O13 Hope Estate K12 Hungerford Hill K14 Iron Gate Estate P13 Kelman Vineyard Q14 McGuigan Wines K10 Mistletoe Wines E4 Mount Pleasant Wines P9 Peterson House J14 Saddlers Creek Wines Q13 Savannah Estate Q13 Running Horse Wines J3
NG SSI RO C S NE
KM < 30 D A RO
4
Ke nd all
15
16
17
Handmade in the Hunter Markets K12
MARKETS
Balloon Alo� (Pickup Point) K14 Hunter Valley Adventure Centre – Segways, Horseriding, Electric Bikes F5 HV Horseriding & Adventures D17 Hunter Valley Gardens K10 Hunter Valley Wine Theatre F5 Hunter Valley Wine School F5 Morpeth Gallery (Morpeth) C18
ACTIVITIES/EVENTS
14
TO QUORROBOLONG
TO SYDNEY M1 PACIFIC MOTORWAY
19
20
Australian Alpaca Barn K10 Australian Alpaca Barn (Morpeth) B19 Byvonne K10 Campbell’s Store (Morpeth) C18 Hunter Dis�llery K6 Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village K10 Morpeth An�que Centre (Morpeth) C18 Mortels B16 Small Mouth Vodka K9 The Garden Cellars K9
SHOPS
18
Alpaca Toys at Australian Alpaca Barn (K10 & B19)
CESSNOCK
Joy Asian Kitchen
TO ABERMAIN KURRI KURRI MAITLAND NEWCASTLE
ABERDARE ROAD
Cessnock Regional Art Gallery
OAD MAITLAND R
W
CELLAR DOORS
1
PAY d ar Ced C r e e k R
Narone Creek Rd
Bimb
AD R O We s t A v e
D ER AL D AN
V
GREAT NORTH ROAD TO SYDNEY VIA PEATS RIDGE
WOLLOMBI ROAD
ht R
BI
AL L
NULKABA
St
U
24.5K M>
M ou
nt B rig
M
MOUNT VIEW ROAD
Kerlew Street
et tre tS en c n St Vin rwi Da
and
MOUNTVIEW
Mount View Rd
Savannah Estate
Saddler’s Creek Wines
Marrowbone Road
Kelman Vineyard
Iron Gate Estate
O’Connors Road
l ber Cum
T
WOLLOMBI
Epic Tasting Experience at Hungerford Hill (K14)
Christmas Lights Sepctacular at Hunter Valley Gardens (K10)
Mount Pleasant Wines
OAKEY CREEK ROAD
Hanging Tree Wines
(SOUTH)
S
M
P
R
<2 4.5 K
CDONALDS RD
Q
O
O P
WO LL
O X
HUNTER VALLE Y GARDENS PRESENTS
NOW O N UNT IL 26 JA N , 2 022
OV ER N L IO 3 M I L S! L IGH T
A magical evening with loved ones! Immerse yourself in our spectacular Christmas Light display. Including the popular Lovers Corner, ‘Hunter’ the giant teddy bear, Giant Castle, Around the World and more...
For details visit hvg.com.au
Visit hvg.com.au for details and tickets.
Follow us on
Broke Road Pokolbin - Ph: 02 4998 4000 Admission charges apply. Some activities may not open in adverse weather conditions and for unscheduled maintenance. Amusement rides are user pay & height restrictions apply. Terms and conditions of entry apply. Closed 25 December.
