The No.1 magazine for visitors to Hunter Valley Wine Country | OCT-NOV 2020 | ISSUE #181
A Place to Connect Within a Field of Vines
WOLLOMBI VALLEY SCULPTURE FESTIVAL
AN INTERACTIVE TWIST ON DEGUSTATION DINING
WALKING IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF LEGENDS
“Quality Without Compromise”
5-Star Winery 2007 to 2020
“WE ARE FAMILY” MISTLETOE is a small, family owned and run, vineyard and winery that was established by the current owners in 1989. Christmas Cheer Mozcato 2020 Now available! Get in early and don’t miss out!
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. • 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 PH 1800 055 080 | E office@mistletoewines.com.au | www.mistletoewines.com.au
IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH...
A WORD FROM THE EDITORS
OCT-NOV
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 OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2020 Copyright © 2020 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 16th October 2020 until the 15th November 2020 inclusive, or while stocks last.
How exciting to see the weather warming up! Our What’s On Guide is also starting to heat up, with a treasure trove of local (COVID-safe) events coming on board and events that were cancelled earlier in the year being re-scheduled. The Roses are blooming at Hunter Valley Gardens, which should make for a Rose Spectacular that makes it pretty easy to stop and smell the (50 varieties of) roses! If there’s a different type of Rosé on your mind, then book yourself into McGuigan’s mid-week celebration offer (see page 4) and score yourself a free bottle of their 2020 Hunter Valley Rosé. Not here mid-week? No problem! Get on down to Weekends at Saddler’s Creek Wines or perhaps take a couple of friends along to Goldfish for a new ‘Goldfish Bowl’! Whatever you get up to – stay safe and don’t forget to book. Sculpture in the Vineyards is back for its 18th year with sculptures ranging from sophisticated and modernist to whimsical and ephemeral designed
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explicitly for a vineyard backdrop. Take a drive to the beautiful, historic village of Wollombi between October 17th until November 1st to immerse yourself in culture! In this issue, we pin down local ‘Celebrity’ Chef Matt Dillow to find out how he was able to pivot his business during lockdown to deliver the tastes of the Hunter Valley to savvy foodies throughout the Hunter and Sydney with his Degustation to Your Door experiences. See page 23. Our cover story this issue sees us taking a visit to the very picturesque area of Broke to visit a recent addition to the Broke-Fordwich wine trail – Winmark Wines. Focusing on premium Chardonnay has enabled the very experienced team to bring the best attributes of the vineyard and the season together to deliver wines of exceptional quality. Read more about what's in store for visitors on page 12. Whatever you get up to in the Hunter Valley this Spring – Enjoy!
is
What’s in th
Issue?
What’s On in Oct & Nov
4
Hot in the Hunter
8
Christmas Lights are Back!
10
Meet the Maker – Feather Drops
11
A Place to Connect – Winmark Wines
12
18th Annual Wollombi Valley Sculpture Festival 16 Walking in the Footsteps of Legends
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Mistletoe Winery – Where Wine is a Way of Life 21 A Throroughly Unique Experience
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
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22
Interactive Twist on Degustation Dining 23 NSW Wine Awards
26
Brutal & Bloody Protests in Rothbury
28
Spring Dining Guide
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30
Your Hunter Valley Map
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WHAT'S
ON Events not to miss in the Hunter Valley Region
FIND THE LATEST EVENTS ONLINE AT YOURHUNTERVALLEY.COM.AU
OCT + NOV BOOK NOW
OCT/NOV
Markets
Slow Food Earth Market
Rose Spectacular
At The Levee, Maitland
17 OCT–15 NOV Enjoy a sensory explosion of colour and fragrance with Hunter Valley Gardens at the annual Rose Spectacular! Visitors will be greeted by an incredible sensory explosion of colour and fragrance as they view 35,000 rose bushes across the property with 6,000 inside the Rose Garden itself. Come along and see over 50 varieties of roses, with thousands in bloom. General entry ticket prices apply. Pre purchase your tickets online at www.hvg.com.au
OCT 15, NOV 5 + 19
Handmade in The Hunter Markets At Kevin Sobels Wines OCT 17, 24 + 31 NOV 7, 14, 21 + 28
Hunter Valley Gardens
The Valley Markets At Townhead Park, Singleton NOV 8
Broke Village Markets At Stewart McTaggart Park NOV 1
(PLEASE CHECK SOCIALS FOR ANY CANCELLATIONS)
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Mega Creatures Hunter Valley Gardens UNTIL 18 OCT All your favourite giant dinosaurs and creatures will be sticking around an extra week with the event now extended until October 18! Tickets are strictly limited due to Covid regulations. To book your session (8am–12.30pm or 1.30pm– 6.30pm) visit www.hvg.com.au
Mid-week 2020 Rosé Celebration Offer At McGuigan Wines
Immerse yourself in one of Australia’s most iconic wineries and celebrate the release of McGuigan Wines’ 2020 Hunter Valley Rosé! This midweek offer includes a premium wine tasting in the exclusive Members Lounge, a cheese platter from the artisans at Hunter Valley Cheese Factory and a free bottle of the 2020 Hunter Valley Rosé to take home and enjoy! So, plan a day out sipping on awardwinning wines this Spring and discover everything McGuigan’s has to offer! (Cost – $25 pp. Reservations must be prepaid for parties of 2–10 people) For more information visit www.mcguiganwines.com.au and click on experiences.
Legends – History of Hunter Valley Wine Saddler's Creek Wines FRI 23 OCT Join Saddler’s Creek Winery for an intimate masterclass with two Hunter Valley Living Legends – Brian McGuigan A.M and Phil Ryan, as they present a selection of wines, explore the history of the Hunter and the evolution of wine varieties and
Oktoberfest at Hope Estate Broke Road, Pokolbin UNTIL NOV 1 Get your Oktoberfest fix at Hope Estate all month long! Drop in for four new German beers on tap including
The Twilight Margan Experience Margan, Broke Fordwich UNTIL DEC Celebrate the warmer seasons with Margan's Twilight Experience! Kick off your evening with a refreshing Vermouth Cocktail while strolling through their Restaurant Kitchen Garden, as the sun sets over the vineyards
styles. This relaxed afternoon of wine tasting is sure to be filled with memories and anecdotes from these two longtime friends who have served the Australian wine industry for over 55 years respectively. Your wine tasting experience will include a selection of wines the Hunter Valley is renowned for, a couple of bonus iconic wines from both Brian and Phil’s cellar, and a paired gourmet grazing plate. To top off a perfect Friday afternoon, relax on the lawn with LIVE MUSIC by local artist Patrick McMahon! This very special masterclass will also be streaming live on Facebook as part of Saddler's Friday Drinks LIVE at the winery! Tickets are $85 pp – visit www.saddlerscreek.com
Hefeweizen, Imperial Hefeweizen, MunIch Lager and Festbier – by the glass, stein or in a paddle of 4. What's more, Oktoberfest theme pizza will be available Friday to Sunday – deliciously German with cheese kransky, caramelised onion and fresh green apple on a mustard aioli base topped with smokey cheddar cheese and mozzarella. These are cooked to order for $25. Takeaway Oktoberfest cases are also available, in a limited release. Join the Beer Club when you purchase to get the exclusive members price of $93 or RRP $174. Prost!
and the beautiful Brokenback Range. Then wander down the garden path, past the olives and vineyards to the winery for a behind the scenes tour. Learn how their single vineyard and sustainably farmed wines are made from vine to glass, and enjoy a sneak preview tasting of yet to be released wines from the tank and barrel. This is all hungry work so your experience continues with a five-course degustation dinner in their awardwinning restaurant, showcasing the best of the estate-grown produce including vegetables, fruit, free range eggs, olives, honey and lamb. This 3-hour experience is $150 pp, with bookings essential – visit www.margan.com.au
RUNNING HORSE WINES The most unique cellar door in Broke... A must visit! Specialising in Aged Wines
Running Horse Wines cellar door provides a new look and experience to the Hunter wine region. We at Running Horse Wines have been ageing our entire range of wines and have amassed an impressive, unique and true age worthy wine list that will take you on an adventurous ride to an unprecedented tasting experience. The opportunity to taste and buy wines from 2005 to 2012, and also now just releasing the 2014 vintage, is very rare. Our classic aged range is comprising of the Hunter’s finest Shiraz, Semillon, Verdelho, Rosé and a Sparkling Rosé also being aged on lees for 6 years! Running Horse Wines is open every day from 10am to 6pm. From Monday to Thursday, please do not hesitate to call and confirm arrival as these hours can fluctuate.
1133 Milbrodale Road, Broke Fordwich PH David on 0474 156 786 www.runninghorsewines.com.au 5 | OCT-NOV 2020 yhv
Australian Art at Morpeth Gallery 5 Green Street, Morpeth 14+15 NOV Meet two iconic Australian artists in residence at Morpeth Gallery – Max Mannix and Natalie Jane Parker. Max Mannix will be signing his 2021 calendars and showing off a newly released medallion set by Bradford Exchange, featuring his artworks themed on Banjo Patterson’s ballad Waltzing Matilda. Natalie Jane Parker will be painting live. Her 2021 calendar will be for sale (pictured), and a mini exhibit featuring her original wildlife artworks to be used to produce fabric squares will also be on show. These fabric squares may be used to create clothing, cushions, patchwork quilts and to embellish in handmade projects. Both have free entry. www.morpethgallery.com
Melbourne Cup Harrigan's Hunter Valley TUES 3 NOV Feel the excitement and glamour of Melbourne Cup at Harrigan’s Hunter Valley! Enjoy a 3-course menu and cocktail on arrival, along with Harrigan's sports bar and TAB. Prizes will be given for best dressed (both male and female), a lucky door prize and more! Tickets are $79 +bf, with maximum group bookings of 10. Bookings are essential, purchase your tickets online at www.harriganshuntervalley.com.au, phone 4998 4300 or email events@ mrhvg.com.au. Secure your table today and take advantage of their accommodation packages!
Melbourne Cup with Timberlina Goldfish, Roche Estate Pokolbin TUES 3 NOV Have a fun and fabulous time at Goldfish this Melbourne Cup, with the one and only Timberlina! Your ticket will include a cocktail on arrival, 3-course lunch, games, trivia, sweeps and a whole lot more entertainment! Best dressed and best hat will also win a prize. Get your group of 4–10 people together and book online as soon as possible. Tickets are $110 pp, visit www.thegoldfish.com.au/whatson
AUSTRALIAN ALPACA BARN
Much more than a Vineyard.
Our Matilda range is made up of easy drinking styles that are produced for your enjoyment.
Come Waltzing with Matilda... 205 Gillards Road, Pokolbin • PH 4998 7887 www.constableestate.com.au
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All That Jazz with the Terence Koo Trio Cessnock Performing Arts FRI 6 NOV Enjoy the amazing sounds of Australian jazz pianist, composer, lecturer, teacher and recording artist Terence
Koo, along with Newcastle jazz virtuosos Andrew Wallace (double bass) and Rob Coxen (drums). Koos music has been described as lyrical, smooth, swinging, passionate and exciting – having previously shared the stage with musicians such as Tom Baker, Jon Cleary, Marcia Hines, Andrew Firth, George Golla, Damien Leith, Bruce Mathiske, Wendy Matthews, John Morrison and Glenn Shorrock. Don't miss this limited Jazz performance at Cessnock Performing Arts Centre. Visit the CPAC website for more information and tickets.
The Faulty Towers Dining Experience Tamburlaine Organic Wines 26 NOV The Faulty Towers Dining Experience – is definitely an experience!
Your favourite characters Basil, Sybil and Manuel will be coming to dinner at Tamburlaine Organic Wines this November. They will not only serve you a delicious 3-course meal, but also dish up a whole lot of chaos and fun too. Story lines appear along the way (keep a look out for the ‘Siberian hamster’), and you’ll be constantly looking around the dining room to see what happens next! Phone Tamburlaine on 4998 4222 to book.
Innovative and Elegant Dining…
HUNTERS QUARTER
Hunter Valley
Chocolate Company EST. 1999
Located in the heart of Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company has been a family owned and operated Hunter Valley gem for the last twenty years. Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience, with a tantalising range of premium hand-made chocolate and chocolate products plus more than 30 flavours of freshly made fudge!
Ph 4998 6999 Three Great Locations in Pokolbin: • Twenty-3-Twenty – 2320 Broke Road 7 Days, 9.30am–5pm • Peterson House – Broke Road 7 Days, 9.30am–4pm • Hunter Valley Gardens (Shop 5) – Broke Road 7 Days, 9.30am–4.30pm
www.hvchocolate.com.au | admin@hvchocolate.com.au
Hunter Valley
Photo by Elfes Images
If you’re looking for a relaxed and elegant dining destination with genuinely amazing food in the Hunter Valley, then look no further than Hunters Quarter (HQ). Head chef, Brian Duncan brings a wealth of global and local experience in fine dining to HQ, having worked at the Dorchester Hotel (Three Michelin stars) and Claridges Hotel (One Michelin Star) in the upmarket area of Mayfair in London. Brian was the executive chef at Level 41 and The Establishment, two of Sydney’s premier restaurants. His breadth of experience and exposure to a variety of world cuisines bring a unique and refined quality to his product, and his belief on food is based on simple, fresh, local and seasonal produce. Book today by calling 4998 7776.
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 Accomodation and horse riding is available this School Holidays!
For Bookings Phone Margaret on 4930 7111 or 0417 233 008 Stay & Play at Hilltop 288 Talga Road, Lovedale So close to all of Wine Country’s attractions, yet you feel a million miles away..
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WHAT'S HOT IN THE
Hunter
E X PLO R E
PICTURE Perfect Constable Estate is one of the most pristine and picturesque spots in the Hunter Valley. This leading destination is renowned for producing exceptional wines, as well as their beautifully manicured gardens spreading over seven hectares. Cradled against the magnificent Brokenback Range, their boutique charm has earned them a reputation as one of the most beautiful and successful vineyards in Australia – and the perfect destination to escape the busy city life for the day. www.constableestate.com.au
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TASTE
New SPRING MENU As the days start to become longer and warmer, take a drive to Hunters Quarter and try their delicious new Spring Menu! Enjoy a fabulous 3 course A La Carte Menu available for a casual lunch with friends or a stylish candlelit dinner with panoramic views overlooking the vineyards. Whatever the occasion, come and wine down with Hunters Quarter. Bookings essential. PH (02) 4998 7776 www.huntersquarter.com.au
SPRI NG S I P S
GOLDFISH Bowls Introducing the newest addition to Goldfish Bar & Restaurant drinks menu, the Goldfish Bowls! Full of cocktail goodness, this ultimate Spring beverage is made for sunny days and good times while enjoying the picturesque views of Wine Country. So, who will you share yours with? www.thegoldfish.com.au
TIME TO CELEBRATE With only a few months left of 2020, its time to plan your end of year celebration! Treat your guests, employees, or friends to a Christmas celebration to remember with Harrigan’s Hunter Valley. 2020 has been a challenging year for all, so it’s time to come together and enjoy the silly season. Private function spaces and packages are now available at Harrigans to meet every budget. To make a booking contact their friendly staff on 4998 4300 or email events@mrhvg.com.au.
E X P E R IENCE
WEEKENDS AT
SADDLER'S CREEK Wine down and kick off your weekend at Saddler’s Creek Wines every Friday, Saturday and Sunday! Book in for one of their fabulous Wine Tasting experiences, enjoy casual eats by Pampa Flame food truck, or relax in the gorgeous wine garden while listening to local artists play live acoustic music. Find out more here: www.saddlerscreek.com/cellar-door-experience
Hunter Valley Resort Corner Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin (02) 49987777 sales@HunterResort.com.au www.HunterResort.com.au
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HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS PRESENTS
5 T H NO V2 U N T I L 02 0 2 6 T H JA N 2021
Light Up Your Life at
Christmas Lights Spectacular!
Immerse yourself in a magical world of light! Wind your way through spectacular illuminated Christmas Lights displays. Including Lovers Corner, ‘Hunter’ the giant teddy bear, Giant Castle, Around the World and more...
For details visit hvg.com.au
02 4998 4000 - Broke Rd Pokolbin - hvg.com.au Terms and conditions apply. Visit hvg.com.au for details.
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Christmas is a wonderful time and this year, in particular, provides an opportunity to, at last, reconnect with loved ones. Christmas Lights Spectacular at Hunter Valley Gardens offers a stunning venue for creating Christmas memories for families but this year it will look a little different. Running from November 5 until January 26, visitors will enjoy over three million sparkling lights and 20 immersive displays whilst wandering through the immaculate gardens. Due to COVID19 restrictions, some experiences won’t be able to take place this year, but we’re happy to confirm that it’ll still be the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest light display! All of the fan-favourites will be returning, including the eight-metre-tall Mega Christmas tree, Candy Land, Walk-Through Bauble, Around the World, Princess Castle and the Giant Teddy display. Other picks that you must tick off your list include the Story Book Garden to visit Humpty Dumpty. To add an extra touch of magic to your visit, make sure you don’t miss the Magic Castle which stands five metres high and 15 metres wide, with a walk-through tunnel. There are additional, illuminated tunnels on either side so that you can soak up the dazzling energy of this display. Then, venture over to ‘Snowy’ the Snowman, where you can walk through his 8m high belly, and the White Christmas display where you’ll find illuminated polar bears, penguins and sleigh dogs within the Snow Cave. Another standout is the Lover’s Corner which proved to be one of last year’s favourite spots. To top it off, lovers can take a stroll through the heart tunnel and enjoy a kiss under the mistletoe. Although the sparkling lights are the main reason for visiting, extra fun can be had at the amusement rides, including the brand new brightly coloured Teacup Ride that will set you spinning. The Venetian Carousel has beautiful illustrations and designs, and adrenaline junkies will no doubt love the Swing Chair spinning 11mtrs off the ground. For only $15 per person (in addition to entry ticket), eventgoers can purchase an unlimited rides wristband. Single-ride tokens will also be available to purchase for $6 each. Gates will open at 6.30pm and will close at 10.30pm. Christmas Lights Spectacular tickets for November only are currently on sale. December and January tickets will be on sale mid-November. Get in early – for tickets visit www.hvg.com.au
MEET THE MAKER
Wonderous
WALL HANGINGS By Feather Drops WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN
A passion for crafting and a desire to create a better work-life balance was all it took for Rutherford mother Jessica Atkins to make the leap into running her own small business. Since August last year, Jessica has been channelling her passion into Feather Drops, handcrafting a growing range of gorgeous macrame décor pieces. “I started Feather Drops in August 2019, so I am still very new to the small business world,” Jessica said. “I started my macrame business because I wanted to stay home with my daughter and not have to go back to a 9-5 job.” From wonderous wall hangings and one-of-a-kind shelves to pretty and practical plant hangers with plenty of boho chic, Jessica has knotted and tied her way to a satisfying and successful career change. “I have been making macrame for just over a year now,” she said. “My dream all started with making a wall hanging for myself. Friends then began giving me lots of compliments and asking for me to make them a piece.
Massive Wine Sale at The Garden Cellars $144 cases!
“As a macrame artist, there are different items that can be made, from wall hangings, plant hangers, shelves and even flowers. “Depending on the size of the macrame, it can take from 1.5 hours to three or four days to create each one.” Jessica is always experimenting with new techniques and designs and incorporates not just different shapes but various colours of cotton into her gorgeous handmade products. “I try to create new and fun things that you can use around the house, such as photo frames and shelves but with character and a boho design,” she said. “Using different shaped designs and drawing them out, I play with ideas on paper and then recreate that into my real life macrame. “I have a few favourites, which include feathers in my designs, but my real favourite is called Iris, which is named after my late Grandma.” Jessica has been selling her Feather Drops designs at the Handmade in the Hunter Markets since October 2019, although this has taken a back seat in recent time as a result of COVID-19. Despite her recent break from market life, Jessica is forging ahead creating stunning new additions to her range, including a new series of animals and night-time inspired items including stars and moons, which she can’t wait to release in coming months just in time for Christmas. There will be plenty of new treasure to discover at upcoming Handmade in the Hunter Markets, which will be held at Kevin Sobels Wines from 9am to 3pm on October 17, 24 and 31, as well as every Saturday in November. For more details, visit www.handmadehuntermarkets.com.au
“Largest beer range 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 d Hu Wine an Vodka r Distille y 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
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A Place to
Connect
Within a Field of Vines WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN PHOTOS JUSTIN AVELING
A visit to Winmark Wines is all about creating connections. Whether it’s introducing a wine lover to a premium bottle of Chardonnay, giving guests the opportunity to interact with architecture, art and nature, or forging links between the past and the present, the Broke property never fails to deliver. This reputation is testament to the passion poured into revitalising the former Pooles Rock Estate by its Danish-born owner Karin Adcock.
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The experienced entrepreneur and fledgeling vigneron experienced a connection of her own when she visited the breathtakingly beautiful 130acre property in 2016 and walked away soon afterwards as its new owner. “I am proud to say that everything I could visualise, everything I fell in love with about the potential of the property the first day I visited is now coming to life,” Karin said. “As an entrepreneur, I have been involved in many businesses, including as the founder of Pandora Australia, but the core value that I bring to everything I do is a hunger to create positive experiences for people and facilitating a connection. “Winmark Wines is a place to connect.” When Karin took the reins at the Broke property, some of the first connections she made were with a team of wine industry experts, who would help build upon the vineyard’s reputation of producing top-quality Chardonnay under a new aptly named label, Winmark Wines, which in Danish means ‘fields of vines’. “I am fortunate to have a very experienced team, from our awardwinning viticulturist Liz Riley to our vineyard manager Dave Grosser who actually grew up amongst the vines as his father was tending to the Pooles Rock vineyard,” Karin said. “John Belsham is our consultant winemaker, and I have the great privilege of being guided by him, particularly when it comes to developing our desired style of Chardonnay.
“John is also working closely with our local winemaker Xanthe Hatcher at Agnew Wines where our wine is being made. “The knowledge and experience of the team is just incredible, but the best thing of all is we have come together so harmoniously with a shared vision that it never feels like it’s one person’s idea or way of doing things.” Karin said the decision was made early on to focus solely on the production of Chardonnay. “Chardonnay does incredibly well on the site, and the wine produced is exquisite. The ability to focus on a single wine variety has allowed us to really strategise how each block is planted and taken care of,” she said. “The first 18 rows of block four were planted with the famous Penfolds 58 clone of Chardonnay in 1972, and we have introduced a couple of Burgundy clones to some other blocks.
“This also creates an exciting opportunity for winemaking as seen in our Single Vineyard Reserve Chardonnay, which is the winemaker’s snapshot of the year, bringing the best attributes of the vineyard and season to produce the song of the vintage.” Dry conditions led to a standout vintage in 2019, which saw Winmark increase its tonnage of premium fruit for two distinctly different releases, the stylish Rusty’s Run Chardonnay, named after Winmark’s favourite kelpie, Rusty, and the premium Single Vineyard Reserve Chardonnay. “Each vintage is different, and we respond to the best attributes of our site,” Karin said. “Chardonnay is an expression of the place where it is grown, and so it is unique due to everything that happens in our vineyard. “All of our fruit is gently picked and pressed at night to maintain freshness. Then there are variations in the time spent in the initial oak fermentation. “A shorter time in oak and then maturing in stainless steel, for example, was the process we used to create the crisp, dry finish and subtle balance focused on the elegance of peach and citrus notes in our 2019 Rusty’s Run, whereas our Single Vineyard Reserve was matured in French oak for 12 months, which allowed the depth of roasted nuts and butterscotch with layers of citrus and honey melon and creamy texture and velvet undertone to come through.”
There’s no better place to taste either of these Chardonnays than Winmark Wines’ new cellar door, which opened earlier this year. Located at the heart of the property, the former Pooles Rock storage sheds were converted into a beautifully-designed cellar door that ensures the history of the property is cherished. Clad in a dark grey Colorbond (Continued next page) F
A PL ACE TO CONNECT Spanning 130 breathtaking acres, Winmark is not just a premium Chardonnay producer but a destination in Broke, Hunter Valley. In 2016 new owner Karin Adcock began re-establishing the former award-winning Pooles Rock vineyard and Winmark continues its remarkable revival with the launch of the Cellar
Door for their Chardonnay tastings. With a vineyard that holds a long tradition of producing beautiful wines, and grounds that are a wonderland of their own, Winmark is a place of remarkable beauty and unexpected discovery.
C E L L A R D O O R : 1 0A M – 5 P M F R I DAY – S U N DAY O R B Y A P P O I N T M E N T T: 0417 100 824 | E: info@winmarkwines.com.au | 229 Wollombi Road, Broke NSW 2330, Australia @winmarkwines | winmarkwines.com.au
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The honest truth of what I love most? Walking in and hearing the joyful laughter of guests, the tinkle of glasses as they sip and enjoy, the collective chatter as they connect and admire the views across the vineyards and the joy as they watch the spectacular sun setting across the property.
(Continued ) and featuring long windows and bi-fold doors, it is nestled into sandstone surrounds, making it the perfect destination to enjoy a wine tasting while taking in spectacular views over the 28-acre vineyard to the magnificent Broken Back Ranges beyond. “It was a long process (to create the cellar door) but sometimes life takes the path it is meant to,” Karin said. “I initially was looking at a totally new freestanding modern development, which for various reasons, didn’t go ahead. “But I am so grateful for that process because this cellar door is such a reflection of where we are now whilst still paying homage to the history of the property. It is so authentic; it has a story, and I love it. “The former storage sheds were built back in the ’70s, and with some loving care, I am so delighted with the result. The response from our guests has exceeded our expectations; it has been an incredible journey.” While Karin said it is incredibly rewarding after all their efforts in the vineyards to see the Winmark Chardonnay bottles beautifully lined up on the shelves ready for people to taste, her favourite aspect of the new cellar door is the connections it is helping to create.
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Guests are encouraged to extend their experience at Winmark Wines beyond the cellar door, with the property’s stunning grounds offering a wonderland of art, architecture and nature to explore, from a growing collection of sculptures to an overflowing rose garden, picturesque dams and natural landmarks of historical significance. Set against the beauty of Yellow Rock escarpment, this is a place to unwind and truly connect with nature completely. Nestled alongside the vineyards, Winmark also offers four distinctive guesthouses that can accommodate up to 34 people and vary from a laid back hideaway to the luxurious primary residence. The most recent addition to the line-up is Villa Vino, a gorgeous “tiny house” style destination set behind the main dam away from the other accommodation, making it perfect for a romantic escape. “It was the missing piece to our accommodation offering,” Karin said. “We recognised that our other properties - Mio Monte that has seven bedrooms and Rock View with five bedrooms - are ideally suited to families and groups staying with us. And of course, the Private Residence offers a more executive getaway with four bedrooms, each with ensuites. “We wanted to welcome the lovers of tiny getaways, the couples and the individuals looking for something gorgeous and cosy that still opens out to the vineyards and provides spectacular views. “Without a doubt, the huge windows that line the tiny house are the best views of the vineyard on the property. To wake up, open the blinds and just watch the sunrise across the vineyard with a cup of coffee is my favourite place.” While the opening of the cellar door and the addition of Villa Vino has certainly kept Karin busy during the past few months, there is still plenty more to come at Winmark Wines.
“I am also very proud to be hosting our first Mindfulness Retreat with Charlotte Thaarup as our facilitator in late October. She is just amazing and brings more than 12 years’ experience in mindfulness to our group. “We have some cultural experiences we are further developing, as so many guests and corporate groups have just loved time with our friend, Aboriginal Elder Gavi, and his storytelling, didgeridoo playing and smoking ceremonies. “In the long term, retreats and corporate events during the week will be a focus for 2021, especially as it suits the current climate of having small groups participate in meaningful connections. “I really do love creating beautiful spaces for people to enjoy so that they walk away and feel they have had a wonderful experience by visiting Winmark.” Visit www.winmarkwines.com.au for more information or to book a weekend away at one of their stunning guesthouses. P “The short term plans are underway, but the list is long, so it feels like we are always working on our plans!” Karin said. “We have planted roses at the end of each row of vines, which will look amazing as they bloom. Each block has its own type of rose so you will literally see blocks outlined in different colour roses, I can’t wait! “We have new sculptures on their way to be installed, including ‘Celest’, which is the second monumental sculpture from David Ball that will be on the property, and a sculpture from local artist Rode Vella from Wollombi who created ‘Fight or Flight’, which won the People’s Choice award last year at Sculpture in the Vineyards. “And of course at the Cellar Door, we are still adding details to the outside seating area, with beautiful furniture and pots to ensure everyone is comfortable. “Our constant focus is on continually developing our Chardonnay. It is such a huge privilege to have this property, which has consistently produced stunning wine, to now be focused on Winmark Chardonnay.
Your always welcome at...
Oishii Japanese
Home Delivery Fri–Sun Dinner only
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
J A P A N E S E T H A I C U I S I N E
Open 7 days for Lunch and Dinner. Takeaway available 7 days. Roche Estate, Hunter Valley Corner of Broke Rd & Mcdonald Rd’s Pokolbin, NSW 2320 PH 02 4998 7051 www.oishii.com.au
/OishiiPokolbin
A Small Mouth doesn't have room for just anything...
Small Mouth Vodka is a family run business, that specialises in Shimmering Vodka and Gins, handcrafted from only premium ingredients. We boast a full �avour with a long, smooth �nish in every sip of our Vodka or Gin.
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At Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin. For any bookings phone 0492 031 862 or email jay@smallmouthvodka.com
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SmallMouthVodka
15 | OCT-NOV 2020 yhv
Karl Meyer – Life Support
18th Annual
Wollombi Valley Sculpture Festival For its 18th year, the highly acclaimed cultural festival, Sculpture in the Vineyards – Wollombi Valley Sculpture Festival, is coming back to the Hunter Valley’s charming, historic village of Wollombi from 17 October to 1 November.
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With sculptures ranging from sophisticated, modernist artworks set against a backdrop of hillsides and valleys, to whimsical and often ephemeral works designed explicitly for the vineyards, the exhibition celebrates contemporary sculpture in all its forms. Stella Downer, the renowned Sydney art dealer, with the collaboration of four vineyards, was instrumental in bringing the exhibition to Wollombi in 2002. From small beginnings, the show is now an institution on the annual arts calendar, the longest running regional outdoor sculpture exhibition in Australia and a million-dollar affair which attracts thousands of visitors across the 16 days. Festival Director, Susan Leith-Miller says she is thrilled with the number and quality of 2020's entries. “This year, 166 works from 103 sculptors have been selected for the exhibition from the 300 national, and international submissions received,” she said. This year’s selection includes seven previous Sculpture by the Sea major prize winners; Peter Lundberg, Paul Selwood, Jorg Plickat, Michael le Grand, Stephen King, Libby Bloxham and Harrie Fasher. Other highly respected artists include Stephen Coburn, Ron Robertson-Swann, Ayako Saito, Peter Tilley, Louis Pratt, Fiona Kemp, Hui Selwood, James McCallum and Robert Barnstone who won the major prize in 2019. Emerging artists, Amanda Lockton and Daniel Schwartz have also been selected again this year. And the exhibition isn’t the only aspect that has grown, with this year’s prize money comprising a $20,000 First Prize, a $6,000 Indoor Small Prize, a $5,000 Highly Commended Prize and a $1,000 prize for the best work by a local sculptor. All prizes are non-acquistional. With over 50 years of combined experience, Art Critic and Lecturer John McDonald will be joined by Sarah Johnson, Curator at Newcastle Art Gallery, to judge this year’s Sculpture Festival.
Stephen Coburn - Flow
The spectacular sculptures are located at Undercliff Wines, Stonehurst Wines at Cedar Creek, Great Northern Trading Post (GNTP) at Laguna and in the village of Wollombi itself. The selected works will be on display and for sale in five indoor galleries and public spaces; the Old Fireshed Gallery, Blender Gallery, Wollombi Community Hall, GNTP and The Old Dance Hall which is also the Visitors Information Centre. The exhibition opens daily from 10am to 4pm. All venues will operate under COVID-SAFE regulations. All works are available for purchase. A 2-hour tour will run each day at 10am from the Tennis Club (Opposite St Johns Church). The cost is $10 pp with children under 12 free. Entry to the Wollombi Valley Sculpture Festival is free. Visit www.sculptureinthevineyards.com.au for more information. P
Introducing the Hunter Valley's
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.
Try our NEW Spring menu!
The Lad y in
Pin k
...
POKOLBIN ESTATE VIN EYARD
Tempranillo | Nebbiolo | Sangiovese | Nebbiolo Rosé Get your taste for adventure today at ...Pokolbin Estate. Winery – 2019 James Halliday Australian Wine Companion
Pokolbin Estate Vineyard 298 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin | Open 7 Days 9am - 5pm PH 4998 7524 | www.pokolbinestate.com.au
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 17 | OCT-NOV 2020 yhv
Walking in the
Footsteps of Legends WORDS DI VON ESSEN
Best known for their classic regional Shiraz and Semillon, produced from some of the most historic vineyards in the Hunter, Mount Pleasant’s awardwinning history dates back to its early beginnings. Established by winemaker Maurice O’Shea in 1921, Mount Pleasant’s history is rich in legends, legacies and exceptional wines. Mount Pleasant is widely considered the birthplace of Australian winemaking and O’Shea’s reputation still stands as the grandfather of Australian table wine and a pioneer of the industry. More than 90 years on, the equipment and names have evolved, but the principles and the vineyards remain the same. There have only been five Chief Winemakers at the helm throughout Mount Pleasant’s 98-year history. Today, the team are led by Chief Winemaker Adrian Sparks who has instilled in his team a philosophy focused on sharing the best of the Hunter Valley told through every vineyard and every glass. Adrian is following in the footsteps of some of Australia’s most celebrated winemaking alumni including not only the late great Maurice O’Shea but more recent winemakers the likes of Phil Ryan and the highly celebrated Jim Chatto.
This commitment to quality has resulted in countless awards and ongoing recognition for their efforts which include Adrian Sparks bestowed with the prestigious title of Winemaker of the Year at the 2019 Hunter Valley Wine Industry Gala and the Mount Pleasant team walking away with seven trophies at the 2019 Hunter Valley Wine Show. The top performer was the 2018 Rosehill Shiraz, receiving five trophies including Best Red Wine in Show and Best Named Vineyard Wine of Show. This was the second year running that Mount Pleasant had been awarded the trophy for NSW Wine of the Year, following the success of Old Paddock and Old Hill Shiraz 2017 at the 2018 awards ceremony. With two wines already on the gold-medal winner's list at the 2020 ICC NSW Wine Awards (see page 26), we will have to wait until October 23rd to see if the Mount Pleasant Trophy cabinet needs to be expanded. We strongly suspect it will! Whether you are just starting your journey of wine discovery or you are well versed in the wonders of wine, a trip to the Mount Pleasant Cellar Door is a must for all visitors to the Hunter Valley. For more information or to book for a wine tasting, visit www.mountpleasantwines.com.au
THE BIR T HPL ACE O F AUST RAL IAN WINEMAKING
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VI SI T OUR C ELL AR DOOR Established in 1921 by legendary winemaker, Maurice O’Shea – Mount Pleasant is one of the great wine estates of Australia. Enjoy a true Hunter Valley wine tasting experience or simply take in the beautiful surrounds with a glass of wine.
OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY UNTIL RESTRICTIONS EASE. BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL FOR WINE TASTING, VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR AVAILABILITY
401 MARROWBONE ROAD POKOLBIN NSW 2320 | (02) 4998 7505 | MOUNTPLEASANTWINES.COM.AU
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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
NEW
Egift Cards Available! For an altogether sweet experience, a visit to Sabor Dessert Bar is a MUST! The Sabor Dessert Menu features over 50 different desserts, each one created individually. Nothing is served by the slice and this brings a new level of culinary delight to desserts in the Hunter Valley. Pair something scrumptious with a delicious Hunter Valley wine... It’s a unique Hunter Valley experience that you can only enjoy at Sabor Dessert Bar. Indulge in multi-award winning Portuguese chocolate mousse, decadent cakes, pastries, hand-made chocolates, Portuguese tarts and gourmet ice-cream. There is also a large range of gluten free desserts, baristamade Glinelli coffee and a selection of teas to enjoy with our amazing view of the vines and mountain ranges or to take away and savour in your home or hotel.
Enjoy a world of desserts at Sabor Dessert Bar in Pokolbin!
2342 Broke Rd, Pokolbin
Open Thurs & Fri 10am - 4.30pm, Sat 10am - 5.30pm, Sun & Mon 10am - 4.30pm
PH 1300 958 939 • www.sabordessertbar.com.au 19 | OCT-NOV 2020 yhv
WINE + FOOD + LIVE MUSIC Friday, Saturday + Sunday
Bookings Saddlerscreek.com.au
15 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin | Open 7 Days 10am–5pm | 02 4991 1770 www.saddlerscreek.com.au
VINEYA R D
Morpeth Antique Centre Discover 21 dealers
Bo ut i q u e H unt e r W i ne s
And The Servant’s Quarters Tearoom, all under one roof. All things Ancient, Antique, Vintage, Retro, Heirloom, Collectable.
NEW RELEASE Rosé 2020
This salmon pink, deliciously dry Rosé is made from a handpicked selection of 65% Shiraz and 35% Tempranillo fruit. It has a rounded palate of raspberries and cranberries that finishes savoury and dry. An ideal wine for Summer barbecues and picnics, best enjoyed with friends.
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 20 | OCT-NOV 2020
OPEN 10am – 5pm, Thursday to Sunday & most Public Holidays 175 Swan Street, Morpeth, Hunter Valley PH 02 4933 1407 E info@morpethgallery.com www.morpethantiquecentre.com
Mistletoe WINERY
Where Wine is a Way of Life There is perhaps no other business that people enter into solely because they love the place, the people and the product so much that they want to build a life around it. That is the romance of wine. It’s what draws people to it, and for almost 200 years, families have planted vines in the Hunter Valley and honed their craft to produce some of the world’s highest quality wines. They are hidden gems just waiting to be discovered.
For many, when it comes to family-run wine estates, the person behind the label is as important to the wine lover as the taste of the wine. And when that person has a family tradition, dedication and devotion firmly rooted in that vineyard, there is more passion and emotional commitment. That person becomes an integral part of the terroir or the sense of place that makes a wine so special. Mistletoe Winery is precisely that – an extraordinary, family-run winery with three generations of the Sloan family involved in the business and recognised for producing some of the Hunters highest quality wines from the 5.5-hectare vineyard on Hermitage Road in Pokolbin. Today, this James Halliday 5 star rated winery is a genuine winemaking enterprise, with all wine produced onsite in Mistletoe’s modern purpose-built winery. Whilst the main focus is on Hunter Valley Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz, Mistletoe also makes wines from Merlot, Cabernet, White Muscat, Verdelho, Viognier, Pinot Gris and Fiano – produced from grapes grown in an environment where the focus is always on quality over yield. Owner of Mistletoe Winery, Ken Sloan believes that all good wine starts in the vineyard and for him, that is the key reason to keep investing in the vineyard. "We have the firm mandate of 'Quality without Compromise', and we not only believe in it, but we also act on it. We will walk away from bad years rather than make average wine by cutting corners or fudging it,” says Ken. With this absolute attention to detail and uncompromising focus on quality, it comes as no surprise that Mistletoe has been rated as a 5-star winery by James Halliday every year from 2007 to 2020 – putting Mistletoe in the top 8% of wineries in Australia on a quality basis and confirming Mistletoe’s reputation as one of the best and most consistent small wine producers in the Hunter Valley. Find Mistletoe at 771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin or visit www.mistletoewines.com.au
PRESENT THIS AD
FREE *Conditions Apply. Up to $20 Value.
“The place to go in the Hunter for great cocktails and casual dining” ROCHE ESTATE – POKOLBIN – CALL 4998 7671 – BOOK ONLINE www.thegoldfish.com.au
EMMA’S COTTAGE VINEYARD · CELLAR DOOR & GALLERY: Friday 12pm–4pm, Saturday 10am–5pm & Sunday 10am–4pm. 438 Wilderness Road, Lovedale 2320 · Ph (02) 4998 7734 · www.emmascottage.com.au 21 | OCT-NOV 2020 yhv
A THOROUGHLY
Unique Experience What’s a weekend in the Hunter Valley without finding that special place that we then take great pleasure in sharing with the world – flooding Instagram and Facebook accounts as we enthusiastically rave about our new find? While the Hunter Valley is not short of beautiful scenery, wonderful wineries and unique wine – there is a fascinating and ultra-cool cellar door located in the picturesque hamlet of Broke that is in a word – unique! Ex-jockey turned winemaker, David Fromberg opened his cellar door for his Running Horse Wines label in 2018 – almost two decades after he first planted vines on his family’s 56-acre property at Broke. With such a beautiful landscape around him, David knew his cellar door had to be something special, so recruited the expertise of friend and architect David Kaunitz. The cellar door is constructed using six large stacked shipping containers that have been artfully repurposed with extensive use of glass to open them up to the surrounding landscape. The uniqueness of the building and quality of the wines at Running Horse Wines (David is one of the few vignerons in the region specialising in aged wines, with his range including varieties of Semillon, Verdelho, Rosé and Shiraz), lend themselves to a thoroughly unique experience for visitors. To book a tasting contact Dave on 0474 156 786.
yhv 22 | OCT-NOV 2020
Matt Dillow
INTERACTIVE TWIST
Two more dates for 2020!
On Degustation Dining WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN
If necessity is the mother of invention, the proof has certainly been in the pudding for those in the hospitality industry who have been forced to reinvent their businesses in the wake of COVID-19. One of the most successful pivots among local restaurateurs has been the huge success of Matt Dillow’s Degustation to Your Door service. The owner of The Deck Café at Lovedale was quick to launch into the takeaway market when restrictions forced eateries to close their doors for on-site dining. But it wasn’t long before the renowned chef took things one step further with an out-of-the-box alternative for customers seeking more than just a mouth-watering meal. “We started doing upmarket-style takeaway food of a restaurantquality, and then we just thought we could take it to the next level by doing a five-course degustation,” Matt said. “We’d had feedback from people saying that they were missing out on their 50th birthdays, or their anniversaries, or whatever celebration,
so we thought we could lift it to a new level for them and do something that no-one else was doing.” Rather than just deliver a fully-prepared five-course meal, Matt’s degustations offered tasty takeaways with an interactive twist by incorporating an at-home cooking class element into the mix. “I’ve done a lot of cooking classes, I do food, wine and produce tours and people enjoy that sort of thing,” Matt said. “And without being able to go anywhere, a response to being inside was that a lot of people were cooking more, buying cookbooks and watching cooking videos. “I thought that to give people something to look forward to at the end of the week we could do a degustation dinner with a cooking class involved too. We’d prep the food up as we would for any function in a kitchen, so they just had to do the final touches on the dishes.” The degustation packages were delivered with full instructions each week before Matt took to Facebook on Saturday night to host a live cooking class, walking his customers through the final steps of each course while also offering professional tips on how to cook and plate up the restaurant-quality creations. While Matt knew the at-home degustation had plenty of potential, even he wasn’t prepared for just how quickly the concept would take off. “We did ten weeks straight and started off thinking we’ll do maybe 100 people each time,” Matt said. (Continued next page) F
23 | OCT-NOV 2020 yhv
(Continued) “We did 180 the very first week, and then the second week we thought we’d do 200, and we did 250. “By the third week the phone didn’t stop, and we did 450 people, while for Mother’s Day we did 900. It was amazing. “We’ve done 13 of them now for a total of 6000 people. “What gave us more inspiration was that people were so excited to look in the box at what they were going to put together. “People are saying it’s changed the way they cook at home because they’re learning little techniques. I don’t just give them the food and say this is how you cook it; I give them explanations on dishes, like why when I cook a risotto I add the parmesan last and then stir it and serve it. What is the process of making a blue swimmer crab dish or a good red wine jus. How to make a good French beurre blanc. “Every week was a different five-course, we were trying to mix it up to give an insight into what I’ve learnt cooking since I was 14-years-old, so people at home could cook like a pro.” Matt and his staff weren’t the only ones benefitting from the innovative concept, with the chef tapping into his wide network throughout the Hunter to enhance the dining experience. This included pairing with a different winery each week to offer matching wines for each course, and utilising the expertise of Fernando Antao from Sabor Dessert Bar to cap off the meal with a truly decadent dessert. Degustation to Your Door added a charitable flavour to the offering as well, with Matt and one of his wine partners, Tamburlaine, raising $11,690 for the Hunter Medical Research Institute from just one week’s degustation. With restrictions easing and on-site dining back on the menu at The Deck Café, Matt has slowed down the weekly degustation, with the popular concept set to pop up every couple of months. There are two more scheduled for the remainder of 2020, including a Christmas Feast on December 19 and a Spring Time Favourites
offering on October 17, which will include everything from smoked duck and blue-eye cod to herb-roasted quail and lamb cutlet. A delectable Sabor’s Snicker’s bomb will provide a sweet treat at the end of the night, while an optional wine pack from Tintilla Wines will offer the perfect accompaniment to every course. Visit www.deckcafelovedale.com.au/dego-to-your-door to find out more. P
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!
725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley www.tintilla.com.au #tintillaestate
Re-Discover Mortels
Daily Factory Tours Mon–Fri 11am – No bookings required
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
Home of the Big UGG Boots · Factory Tours · Shop · Café · Museum
yhv 24 | OCT-NOV 2020
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
619A Medowie Road, Medowie Ph 4981 7174 | M 0402 190 835 E cosyiron@optusnet.com.au www.cosyiron.com.au
Hunter Family Dental first opened its doors in Cessnock in 1999, not too far from the beautiful wine country we know as the Hunter Valley.
153 Wollombi Road Cessnock Book an appointment now
We are proud to say that what is behind those doors has changed forever. We now offer our patients state of the art facilities and a team that strives for excellence in ethical patient care.
CALL (02) 4990 6646 www.hunterdental.com.au
Contact the team at Hunter Dental to see what treatment options are best suited to you.
Our Services: • General Dental • Cosmetic Dental • Teeth Whitening • Dental Implants • Dermal Fillers
• Clear Braces • Emergency Appointments • 3D Dentistry • Crowns in one Appointment • Anti-Wrinkle Injections Dr Luc Evans • Elise Smith • Dr Nick Tarpey • Elizabeth Hughes
25 | OCT-NOV 2020 yhv
NSW Wine Awards Gold Medal Winners The medal-winning wines of the 2020 ICC Sydney NSW Wine Awards have been revealed, raising the anticipation of who will be awarded the top trophies and named the best wine in NSW at the 25th annual NSW Wine Awards Presentation Luncheon on 23rd October 2020.
Three days of judging saw 16 expert wine judges taste a record number of entrants (904), awarding 65 of these wines with gold medals. When talking about the 2020 judging process, Chair of Judges Dave Brookes said, “The calibre of our judges and the rigorous procedures means that each awarded wine really is worth the medal it receives. One of the great pleasures of chairing the NSW Wine Awards is the robust discussions that surround the call-backs and taste-offs and this year, the Shiraz and Semillon classes, two of the great noble grape varieties of our state, were very strong, highlighting the diversity of style and the great vineyard sites of our famous wine regions." “The Current Vintage Shiraz class was particularly impressive; out of the 184 Shiraz wines judged, 112 received a medal, 17 of which were gold medals! The recent run of outstanding red vintages in NSW was really highlighted in this class. The final line-up of gold medal winners was uniformly outstanding, showcasing the regional and stylistic diversity NSW is rightly famous for. “The Semillon classes – both current and mature vintages – were also a pleasure to judge, again proving that no one does this variety better than NSW. 55 wines merited a medal, and the best wines showed real purity and very detailed winemaking.” The 65 gold medal finalists will now move on to the next stage of the Awards, the exclusive 2020 ICC Sydney NSW Wine Awards Presentation Luncheon, where the top 2020 trophy winners will be announced on Friday 23rd October at ICC Sydney. Mark Bourne, President NSW Wine said, “We are so lucky to have ICC Sydney as a partner for these Awards. Not only do they support our industry 365 days a year, with a commitment to a 100% NSW wine list, but with their hard work, detailed EventSafe Operating Framework and
The Mill Restaurant Brokenback Bar
Casual Dining 7 days from 12pm Menu available all day
Accommodation Events Weddings Conferences Cooking Schools Food Wine Takeaway
4998 7288 www.estatetuscany.com.au
THE BEST PLACE IN THE HUNTER VALLEY
to find something special!
We are excited to welcome Small Mouth Vodka to Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village! Their motto is “a small mouth doesn’t have room for just anything” and that’s reflected in the carefully selected premium ingredients, the handcrafted distillation process, and the smooth finish in every sip of Small Mouth Vodka. The shop is family run and they are open 7 days a week from 10am till 5pm. Come experience it for yourself and have a delightful day out enjoying everything the Shopping Village has to offer!
huntervalleygardensshopping.com.au Broke Rd Pokolbin -
yhv 26 | OCT-NOV 2020
SIMPLE FOOD DONE WELL
LUNCH Fri, Sat and Sun 12pm till 3pm DINNER 7 Days from 6pm
ANDANTÉ BRASSERIE
stunning, spacious venue, our judging and awards presentation have been able to take place in this challenging year for all.” Guests at the 2020 ICC Sydney NSW Wine Awards Presentation Luncheon will get to taste a large range of this year's award-winning wines, accompanied by a delicious lunch. They will hear details of the judging process from the judges themselves and of course the presentation of which wines have won the 2020 trophies, including the ultimate NSW Governor’s Trophy for Best Wine in Show and title of ‘2020 NSW Wine of the Year’. Gold medal-winning finalists from the Hunter Valley include Tintilla Estate’s 2014 Patriarch Shiraz, Hart & Hunter’s 2019 Single Vineyard Series Oakey Creek Reserve Semillon; Margan’s 2019 Saxonvale Mourvedre and 2019 Saxonvale Shiraz, Mount Pleasant’s 2018 High Paddock Shiraz and NV Tawny Port Syrah and McGuigan’s 2018 Bin 9000 Semillon. Stay tuned for the trophy winners in our next issue!
ENJOY AN inviting and relaxed atmosphere Andanté Brasserie is a locally owned café and restaurant located in the heart of the Hunter Valley – a great spot for a quick catch up or long lunch with friends and family.
Open 7 DAYS For Breakfast and Lunch Ph 4998 7932 Leisure Inn, 485 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin www.andantebrasserie.com.au
WE BELIEVE IN THE SIMPLE THINGS IN LIFE. THEY JUST NEED TO BE AMAZING.
Located at Gartelmann Wines, The Deck Café Lovedale is a stylish Restaurant style Cafe/Tapas Bar, complete with Vittoria Coffee.
OPEN 7 DAYS
Monday – Friday 8:30am till 2:30pm Saturday – Sunday 8am till 2:30pm Friday and Saturday Nights 5:30pm till 7:30pm
PH (02) 4930 9007
www.deckcafelovedale.com.au
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 SAT & SUN; DINNER FRI & SAT 27 | OCT-NOV 2020 yhv
STEP BACK IN TIME
Brutal and Bloody Protests in Rothbury WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN
It was one of the darkest chapters in Australia’s coal mining history, born from the depths of desperation and played out on the edge of the renowned Hunter Valley vineyards. It was February 1929, and the owners of the Northern NSW coalfields had come together, in the face of decreasing demand for coal and worsening economic conditions, under the banner of the Northern Collieries Association. Mid-February they had issued their almost 10,000 mine workers with a notice of intention to slash their wages by 12.5 per cent and remove the key industrial rights that allowed union lodges to hold pit-top meetings and pit stoppages. The new conditions were also designed to allow colliery managers to hire and fire workers without regard to seniority. Understandably, the Miners Federation refused to accept the terms – but what no-one expected was for the mine owners to lock the gates on the miners for the next 15 months. After shutting out their own employees on March 2, a bitter standoff between the workers and the owners ensued, laying siege to the Hunter mining community. Families were forced to rely on meagre government handouts, while new laws were introduced in an attempt to make it illegal for miners to gather in protest. Desperate times filled with poverty and starvation eventually forced the miners to accept the mine owners’ demands, returning to work in June 1930 on reduced contract wages. The lockout, however, failed to break the resolve or organisation of the miners’ union. But before the new conditions were begrudgingly accepted, one miner was forced to pay the ultimate price for his principles, shot and killed by police during a bloody and bitter protest over the introduction of non-union labour at the Rothbury Colliery, which by that time had been taken over by the NSW Government.
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On December 16, 1929, ten months into the desperate and divisive lockout, around 5000 miners gathered at the colliery’s gates in protest over strikebreakers working at the site. A large force of police, who was reportedly brought in to protect the non-union workers, clashed with the miners who marched on the colliery and shots were fired by the armed constabulary. While there remains plenty of conjecture around what actually happened during the ensuing riot, one miner – 29-year-old Norman Brown – was killed by a bullet fired by police, while upwards of 45 other workers were injured. Around 7000 people attended Brown’s funeral at Greta, with the riot labelled “the most dramatic industrial clash that has ever shocked Australia” in a report by Sydney’s Daily Telegraph Pictorial. While the Rothbury colliery finally closed in 1974, the events at the mine almost 50 years earlier had already passed into Australian folklore as one of the darkest chapters in Australia’s coal mining history. The Rothbury riot and “Great Australian Lockout” as the overall dispute became known, later became the subject of a 2007 documentary, Lockout, presented by award-winning Australian actor Chris Haywood. The 56-minute film featured interviews with Hunter mining identities including Jim Comerford, who at the time was one of the few remaining eyewitnesses to the event. He has since passed away. Mr Comerford wrote a book of the same name about the incident, based on his first-hand experiences as a 15-year-old, who was working as a pit boy when he got caught up in the riot. He later went on to become an activist and union leader, with many of his historical documents now available to be viewed in a library named after him at the Edgeworth David Museum, located in the grounds of Kurri Kurri High School. Kurri Kurri is also the home to a mural depicting the riot, which was painted by artist Chris Fussell on the Custom Credit building, while an official monument commemorating the event can be found on the western side of Wine Country Drive, about 2km north of North Rothbury and 17km north of Cessnock. It was dedicated by the Northern District Miners Women’s Auxiliary to all those who endured the lockout, as well as the miners present at the riot in Rothbury.
Spring Dining Guide
ANDANTE BRASSERIE
THE CELLAR RESTAURANT
We are a locally owned cafe and restaurant located in the heart of the Hunter Valley. The inviting and relaxed atmosphere makes it a great place for a quick catch up, long lunch with friends or family. Relax in our outdoor area with delicious food and a nice cold beer, glass of wine or cocktail.
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. Try our NEW al a carte and tasting menu! Share plates are also available for lunch Monday to Saturday. Bookings recommended.
Leisure Inn, 485 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin, MAP REF K10 PH 4998 7932 | www.andantebrasserie.com.au OPEN 7 Days for Breakfast and Lunch
HVG Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin, MAP REF K10 | PH 4998 7584 admin@the-cellar-restaurant.com.au | OPEN Lunch Mon– Sat; Dinner Mon–Sat | www.the-cellar-restaurant.com.au
BLAXLAND INN
OISHII JAPANESE THAI RESTAURANT
Specialising in friendly country hospitality, you’ll love your time at Blaxland Inn. Our menu is full of hearty meals from succulent steaks, house-made pies, and our signature garlic prawns. When reserving your table, ask about our courtesy vehicle. Suitable for up to 11 guests, conditions apply. Bookings are essential.
The name says it all... Delicious. Open daily, Oishii has become one of the most popular eateries in the epicentre of Hunter Valley wineries and concerts. The market fresh seafood Sushi and Sashimi followed by a rich Massaman Beef Curry and finished with fried ice cream – a house speciality, begs a return visit to taste their unique Prawn Tempura, Panang Duck Curry and Green Curry Chicken. Roche Estate, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rd’s Pokolbin, MAP REF L11 OPEN 7 Days Lunch, Dinner + T/A; Home Delivery Fri–Sun 4998 7051 | www.oishii.com.au
2198 Broke Road, Pokolbin, MAP REF K12 | PH 4998 7550 info@blaxlandinn.com.au | www.blaxlandinn.com.au OPEN 7 days for Lunch & Dinner
HUNTERS QUARTER
THE DECK CAFÉ
Hunters Quarter (HQ) is a relaxed and elegant dining destination, located in the Cockfighters Ghost Vineyard of Pokolbin, in the heart of the picturesque Hunter Valley. A culinary dream come true at Hunters Quarter with something for every occasion. Image: Prawn and scampi dumplings.
The Deck Café Lovedale is a stylish Restaurant Style Café/Tapas Bar, located at Gartelmann Wines. We provide a diverse and delightful style Breakfast menu daily, followed by an inspiring Tapas Style menu for Lunch and Dinner on Friday and Saturday. The menu is complimented with Gartelmann Wines and Vittoria coffee.
576 De Beyers Road, Pokolbin, MAP REF N10 | PH 4998 7776 info@huntersquarter.com.au | www.huntersquarter.com.au OPEN Mon night, Thurs - Sun Lunch & Thurs - Sat Dinner
701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale, MAP REF G18 | PH 4930 9007 www.deckcafelovedale.com.au | OPEN Mon to Fri 8.30am– 2.30pm; Sat & Sun 8am–2.30pm; Dinner Fri & Sat 5.30pm–7.30pm bookings@deckcafelovedale.com.au
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Australian Alpaca Barn Harrigans Hunter Valley
Andanté Brasserie
Sabor Dessert Bar
Green Lane
The Deck Café
TO NEWCASTLE
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MORPETH
20
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D e Beyers Road
Ekerts Road
BROKE ROAD
The Cellar Restaurant
Gillards Road
MCDONALDS ROAD
Winmark Wines
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Small Mouth Vodka
The Garden Cellars
Roche Estate Oishii Japanese-Thai Restaurant Goldfish Bar & Restaurant
Palmers Lane
Emma’s Co�age Vineyard
Wilderness Road
St Swan
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Australian Alpaca Barn Morpeth An�que Centre & Campbell’s Store Morpeth Gallery
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Hunter Valley Gardens HVG Shopping Village
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HVG Christmas Lights K10 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 Sculpture in the Vineyards W5
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14
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TO SYDNEY M1 PACIFIC MOTORWAY
19
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Hunter Family Dental K12
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SHOPS
18
Get a Degustation to your door (Page 23)
TO QUORROBOLONG
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WOLLOMBI ROAD
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Mount Pleasant Wines
Ivanhoe Wines
OAKEY CREEK ROAD
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PUT A LOCAL
in Your Pocket!
With access to all the insider information about Hunter Valley Wine Country you need to create your dream holiday itinerary – look no further than the mobile Hunter Valley Guide! Use it while you’re on the go in Wine Country to get directions to your favourite winery, make reservations at a nearby restaurant, book a tour or a wine tasting. Find out what's going on nearby or access an interactive wine trail map - we've put it all in the palm of your hand with the Hunter Valley Guide. NO DOWNLOAD REQUIRED! If you’re short on time, data or can't get access to decent wi-fi – no problem! The Hunter Valley Guide requires no downloading or updating. It's always available, wherever you are – and it’s always up to date!
Grab your phone and scan the code to go straight there, or visit www.huntervalleyguide.com.au