The Hunter Blackboard | February 2016

The No.1 magazine for visitors to Hunter Valley Wine Country

F E B R UA RY 2 0 1 6 | I S S U E # 1 0 8

BLACKBOARD

Romance

THE HUNTER BLACKBOARD IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH...

FOR YOUR DIARY

February

FRIDAY 5TH FEBRUARY | CINEMA UNDER THE STARS | Maitland Park, Maitland | Newcastle Permanent's Cinema Under the Stars is Australia’s largest

regional outdoor cinema program and entry is FREE! So gather your friends and family together to relax with a picnic as the sun sets over Maitland Park and the screen lights up for ‘Inside Out’! Gates open at 5.30pm with a fantastic line-up of local entertainment that will have everyone up and dancing before the movie screening at sundown. Visit www.newcastlepermanent.com.au/cinema for more information.

13TH AND 14TH FEBRUARY | VALENTINE’S DAY | Esca Bimbadgen and Goldfish Bar and Kitchen | World class wine, award winning restaurants and

PUBLISHED BY: WCP Media

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: PH +61 2 4943 2888 HunterValleyOnline.com.au enquiries@wcpmedia.com.au WCP MEDIA Suite 4, 2 Smith St, Charlestown, NSW 2290 February 2016.

Copyright © 2016 WCP Media.

Published monthly by WCP Media.

All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpt granted by written request only. While every attempt has been made, WCP Media cannot guarantee the legality, completeness or accuracy of the information presented and accepts no warranty or responsibility for such.

SPECIAL OFFERS AVAILABLE

from 1st February 2016 until the 29th February 2016 inclusive or while stocks last.

picturesque views make the Hunter Valley the perfect place to spoil that special someone this Valentine’s Day. On Saturday and Sunday indulge with a 5 course degustation dinner at Esca Bimbadgen restaurant, commencing with a glass of Bimbadgen Sparkling on arrival and a special gift for your sweetheart. Only $100 pp or $130 with matching wines. Or enjoy a 4 course banquet menu to share with the one you love this Valentine’s Day at Goldfish Bar and Kitchen. Available for lunch or dinner for only $150 per couple or $230 per couple with matched wines and cocktails with each dish. For more information visit each venues website.

SATURDAY 20TH FEBRUARY | A DAY ON THE GREEN WITH SIMPLY RED | Bimbadgen | Thirty years after introducing a generation to the joys of soul

music through their rendition of the Valentine Brothers’ classic Money’s Too Tight (To Mention), Simply Red are back in February with a world tour and a brand new album, ‘Big Love’. The Big Love Tour will be supported by the fabulous Tina Arena, returning to the winery stages for the first time since 2010. Also performing, and making her a day on the green debut, will be Natalie Imbruglia.

Simply Red, Tina Arena and Natalie Imbruglia – don’t miss this all-star line-up!

For more information visit www.adayonthegreen.com.au

26TH TO 28TH FEBRUARY | WOLLOMBI CLASSIC FILM FESTIVAL | Grays Inn and St Michael Church | The last weekend of summer will see

the launch of an exciting new event in the heart of the historic village of Wollombi! Film buffs, or those just looking for a reason for a weekend away, will be treated to 6 classic films at 2 stunning venues. There will be a licensed bar selling local wine and craft beer, and as always in Wollombi, country hospitality will very much make the weekend one to remember. For more information visit www.wollombiclassicfilmfestival.com.au

SATURDAY 27TH FEBRUARY | ROB THOMAS | Hope Estate | Rob Thomas has had an ongoing, 20-year long, love affair with Australian audiences – both as the frontman, lead vocalist and key songwriter for Matchbox Twenty and also as a major solo artist. The romance is set to continue as Thomas makes a very welcome return down-under for a national headline tour. Joining Rob Thomas will be special guests Pete Murray and Darren Middleton. For more information visit www.hopeestate.com.au GET MOBILE!

View this month’s issue of The Hunter Blackboard on your iPhone, iPad, android tablet or android phone. Simply download the QR Code and get mobile!

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SATURDAY 27TH FEBRUARY | ROMEO AND JULIET - SHAKESPEARE IN THE VINES | Calais Estate | Under the setting sun, Essential Theatre will

transform Calais Estate into the feuding streets of Verona when they present Romeo and Juliet. This heart breaking tale is one of Shakespeare’s most popular plays, and is by far one of the world’s greatest love stories. Gates will open at 4.30pm and there will be live music, food and drinks available with the performance commencing at 6.30pm. General Admission tickets available or enjoy Shakespeare in style with the VIP package that includes sparkling wine and canapes on arrival, a winery experience and long lunch with matching wines. Purchase tickets at www.ticketek.com.au WANT MORE? Keep up to date with events in the Hunter by visiting www.huntervalleyonline.com.au

FROM THE EDITORS It’s February… the month of love… and this annual “Romance” issue of the Hunter Blackboard has love written all over it (literally!).

Candle-lit dinners, wine tasting, balloon flights, picnicking and horse riding are just a few of the romantic offerings available and we’re also told that the Hunter Valley is one of the most popular (and most successful!) places to not only propose but also to tie the knot!

Romancing the Hunter Valley (on page 10) has plenty of tips for wooing that special someone – Hunter Valley style of course and since wine and romance go together – you are definitely in the right place. From picnic baskets to degustation’s, oysters to candy making or putt putt golf to glass-making lessons – Wine Country is jam-packed with romantic memories to be made.

Thirty years after introducing a generation to the joys of soul music their irrepressible, irresistible rendition of the Valentine Brothers’ Money’s too tight (to mention), Simply Red are back in town to rock the Hunter Valley alongside Aussie favourites Tina Arena and Natalie Imbruglia. This is one not to miss.

On another musical note – Rob Thomas is in town this month in support of his new solo album - the first in more than 6 years. According to Rob he’ll be playing “some of the new stuff, some of the old stuff, a little bit of everything.”

Joining Rob on all dates will be special guest Pete Murray and Darren Middleton of Powderfinger fame also on stage.

Is there anything more romantic than sharing a dessert? If you’ve a sweet tooth (or even if you haven’t) and love a bit of crunch then a Crème Brȗlée may be just the dessert for you. We look at the best Flaming Five in the Hunter on page 18. And if we’ve wet your appetite for the sweet, you may be ready to try the weird! Foods that is – you won’t believe the latest delicacies we’ve uncovered on page 20.

Finally, we look at love in a bottle with our pick of wines for romantic occasions. Whether you are going out or staying in for a romantic dinner (and might we remind you girls out there – it IS a leap year), you’ll want to have one of these luscious drops on hand. Enjoy!

Enjoy!

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Contents ROMANCING THE HUNTER VALLEY

10

AVOCADO – A SWEET SURPRISE

16

WEIRD & WONDERFUL FOODS

20

WINES FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS

24

ROSÉ – A WINE FOR ROMANTICS

30

HUNTER BLACKBOARD MAP

32

Vineyards, mountains and picturesque valleys combine to form the perfect backdrop for spoiling your special someone in the Hunter Valley.

Australians love avocado in salads, in guacamole and on toast, but how do you feel about avocado in milkshakes, ice creams and cakes? Put avocado to the dessert test with Golden Door’s Avocado and Cacao recipe!

Do you have a strong stomach? Prepare yourself as we take a look at some of the weird and (often) wonderful foods of the world that might be coming to a restaurant near you.

It’s no secret that wine is a catalyst and enabler for romance.

In the spirit of the romance issue, we have gathered a selection of special wines to put you and your partner in the mood for romance.

Forget roses this Valentine’s Day, instead give a bottle of Rosé!

Perfect for the romantic picnic, Rosé is the perfect wine for summer and it tops the charts for food-friendly versatility!

The Hunter Blackboard’s handy guide to finding your way around Wine Country.

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WHAT’S HOT IN THE HUNTER

RS EDPITI OC K FEBR

UA RY

OYSTERS SIX DIFFERENT WAYS at TWINE RESTAURANT Oyster lovers look no further!

With a view of Oakey Creek valley's rolling hills and vineyards, Twine Restaurant is the ultimate for those who enjoy modern Australian food with a twist. Their ever popular half dozen oysters done six different ways is just that - with each delighting the senses through colour, taste and texture. Alluring food, picturesque alfresco dining and friendly staff make Twine a welcoming environment. This is casual fine dining at its best.

THE BENEFITS OF LOCAL OLIVE OIL in the HUNTER Like wine, the acidity and flavour of olive oils vary - some are bold and peppery, others mild and buttery, and some contain higher antioxidant and health benefits. By heading to a local olive centre you not only get to learn about and taste the differences, but you are buying from the source.

Unlike wine that often gets better with age, olive oil is better within the first 12 months; reputable olive centres turn over their stock seasonally, and you can trust that age won't be an issue!

WHERE Try Hunter Valley Liqueurs and Baerami Olives at the HVG Shopping Village, Adina Vineyard on Lovedale Road or Pokolbin Estate on McDonalds Road.

WHERE Wynwood Estate, 310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7449 or www.twinerestaurant.com.au

ORGANIC SPRITZERS at ASCELLA WINES

Coco 8 Spritzers are made with the highest quality white and red wines, natural fruit concentrates and other flavourings. They come in 3 flavours - Pina Colada, Strawberry Daiquiri and Sangria, just add a twist of lime and they are delicious, especially on a warm day!

Produced by highly awarded, certified organic vineyard Ascella Wines in Broke, the grapes in Coco 8 Spritzers are grown in a pristine vineyard remote from commercial agriculture - free of chemicals and pesticides.

WHERE Available at the Ascella Wine cellar door, 203 Thompsons Road, Broke. PH 6574 5275 or 0431 357 105. $15 per 4 pack, 8.1% alcohol. For more information head to www.coco8spritz.com or www.ascellawine.com

AN EXPERIENCE WORTH TASTING at CIRCA 1876 Until February 29th 2016, you can be treated to a unique two course special plus a mini trio of desserts to share for two for just $80 pp.

Exceptional dining and delicious food does not come at this price very often! Book a sumptuous lunch or dinner at Circa 1876 today!

WHERE Circa 1876, 64 Halls Road, Pokolbin.

Bookings are essential. PH 4998 4998 or email info@circa1876.com

ADD A LITTLE CHEESE to your WEDDING DAY! Weddings in the past have been bound by the strict rules of tradition, however times have changed and couples can now get creative with all aspects of their wedding, ensuring their special day is a reflection of their individual personalities‌ even down to their personalised wedding cake!

Hunter Valley Cheese Wedding Cakes (based at the Hunter Valley Cheese Factory) work with brides and grooms to create their ideal cheese wheel wedding cake utilising their own regional and award winning cheese wheels.

Not getting married? These aren't just for weddings! Wheel cakes can also be used to celebrate any occasion such as birthdays, anniversaries and even a dinner party.

WHERE Hunter Valley Cheese Factory, 447 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin. For more information visit www.huntervalleycheese.com.au or call 4998 7744 to book a consultation.

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Tie the knot at Hunter Valley Gardens!

Planning a wedding can seem like a daunting task for some couples. From the invitations to the dress, cake and how you should arrive – where do you begin? Once again, Hunter Valley Gardens is making planning your wedding easy with their annual Wedding Fair.

The Wedding Fair will be held on Sunday 20th March 2016 between 11am – 3pm and if you’re planning a wine country wedding – you won’t want to miss it!

While taking in the beautiful gardens and ceremony locations, couples will be able to browse and discuss options with over 40 hand selected suppliers in the exhibition marquee. These will include celebrants, cake suppliers, hair and makeup options, flowers, photographers, entertainment, transport and much more!

The Garden Terrace located inside Hunter Valley Gardens offers a versatile reception venue, catered by their award-winning team for an unforgettable evening. Be sure to check out their setup on display during the Wedding Fair.

There are so many decisions to make when planning your wedding that a professional opinion can be valuable. Hunter Valley Gardens have a dedicated wedding team that will be on hand to provide ideas and advice.

Hunter Valley Gardens wedding expert Kylie Berryman says “the best part about having a wedding at the Gardens is that everything is in the one location. You can have your ceremony in one of our magnificent settings, then while you and your bridal party are capturing the moment in our fabulous photography locations, your guests can relax with canapés and pre-dinner drinks in the Oriental Garden. Our Wedding Fair showcases all the possibilities we have on offer and it is a great place to meet with suppliers.”

Admission to the Wedding Fair is free for wedding couples who register online at www.hvg.com.au

Images by Photography on Hermitage, dress by Tegan Asha.

WHEN Sunday 20 th March 2016 WHERE Hunter Valley Gardens TIME 11.00am – 3.00pm PRICE Free entry for wedding couples, register online

Ceremony - Reception - Photography We make planning your wedding easy with our annual Wedding Fair, located inside our beautiful display gardens from 11am – 3pm. Couples will be able to discuss options with our dedicated wedding team, see our ceremony, reception and photography options and talk to over 40 hand selected suppliers in our exhibition marquee. These will include celebrants, cake suppliers, hair and makeup options, flowers, photographers, entertainment, transport and much more! Admission to the Wedding Fair is free for wedding couples who register online.

For more information about weddings or to book a site inspection please contact us today!

02 4998 4084 | weddings@hvg.com.au | Broke Road, Pokolbin NSW | www.hvg.com.au

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A DAY ON THE GREEN

THE RETURN OF SIMPLY RED - THE BIG LOVE TOUR 2016 With special guests Tina Arena + Natalie Imbruglia Thirty years after introducing a generation to the joys of soul music through their irrepressible, irresistible rendition of the Valentine Brothers’ recession-themed classic Money’s Too Tight (To Mention), Simply Red are back with a world tour and a brand new album, “Big Love”.

Money’s Too Tight (To Mention). 1987’s million-selling Men and Women went towards funk, and the vastly successful albums A New Flame (1989) – featuring If You Don’t Know Me By Now - and the hit-laden Stars (1991) found the balance between pop and soul. When Simply Red veered into contemporary dance music with the number one hit Fairground and the 1995 album Life, they imbued it with their own, unique sound.

After a sold-out European arena tour, The Big Love Tour lands in Australia this month, playing theatres and select outdoor venues, that include four a day on the green winery dates.

Now, with the band entering its fourth decade, Mick Hucknall prepares to set off on one of the biggest tours of Simply Red’s career with his sense of purpose clearer than ever. “We’re called Simply Red for a reason,” says the man with one of the greatest voices in soul music. “I want to keep it simple. Our fans know who we are. They have been loyal to us. Now I’m ready to go out there and give them what they want.”

In the Hunter Valley, Simply Red will be playing at Bimbadgen on Saturday, February 20.

Also performing, and making her a day on the green debut, will be Natalie Imbruglia, the special guest for all Simply Red’s Australian tour shows “I like an anniversary, and this is a big one,” says Mick Hucknall. “30 years! It's incredible. What a great thing to celebrate!”

Following a tour of Australia and New Zealand in October 2010, Simply Red finished its unbroken 25-year run with a farewell concert at London’s O2 Arena that December. Fast-forward to 2015, and buoyed by the hugely positive response to their excellent new album Big Love, Simply Red are once again on the road, and in high spirits, playing all their classic hits. Fans will also rejoice at the release of Song Book, a four CD release with accompanying 36-page booklet celebrating 25 years of the band’s music.

A day on the green is thrilled to welcome Tina Arena back to Australian shores for the tour and her return to the winery stages for the first time since 2010.

Tina follows up her hugely successful platinum ARIA Top Ten album Reset and tour with a new record Eleven released last November - the 11th album of her extraordinary cross-generational recording career.

Natalie Imbruglia will be a special guest at all Simply Red’s Australian shows. The pop singer’s debut album, 1997’s Left of the Middle, sold seven million copies worldwide and featured the single Torn, which hit No. 1 on multiple charts around the world, including the U.S. Billboard Top 40, and was certified platinum in the U.K. and also Australia. With her latest album, Male, just out, her first since Come to Life in 2009, Natalie is returning to live performance, also touring Europe and the UK with Simply Red.

Simply Red’s music has a timeless quality that has seen the band have top ten hits through the 80's, 90's and 2000’s, with album sales exceeding Simply Red, Tina Arena and Natalie Imbruglia – don’t miss this all-star 60 million worldwide. The band’s 1985 debut album Picture Book headed line-up! For all event information, go to www.adayonthegreen.com.au into a 60's R&B groove, featuring super hits Holding Back the Years and

thb 6 | FEBRUARY 2016

AT ESCA BIMBADGEN

5 course degustation menu

$100 per person or $130 with matching wines The Valentine’s Day degustation will run for dinner on Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th February 2016 and be the only menu available.

Visit the events page on our website for more information.

790 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin Phone: 4998 4666 www.bimbadgen.com.au

FREE Live music @ Pok ol SECOND an d LAS bin Village on the T Sunday of the month

RELAX. REBALANCE. REFOCUS

Golden Door Spa Elysia in the picturesque Hunter Valley is a haven of relaxation and healing, created for you to take some time to relax, rebalance and refocus. Our extensive Spa Menu includes face and body treatments, massage, hand and foot care, and specialty services.

Signature treatments provide an amazing experience with sensational results, whilst the Spa Rituals offer an opportunity to indulge and rejuvenate for that little while longer.

To book call 02 4993 8500 or email programcoord@elysia.com.au

Smelly Cheese Shop Chocolate and Jam Company Winemakers Outlet General Store Buon Cibo Restaurant Tempt and Vixen Giftware Pokolbin Village Accommodation MMG Photo & Cinema

www.goldendoor.com.au Golden Door Health Retreat & Spa Elysia 165 Thompsons Road, Pokolbin NSW

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Picnic at Hanging Rock (1975)

Hunter Valley Vineyards Boutique Cheesery

HUNTER VALLEY

CHEESE FACTORY Award winning cheese handmade in Pokolbin Hunter Valley to compliment the varietal wines of the region.

• Tasting rooms open daily 9am to 5.30pm.

• Cheese-making and maturation room viewing all day.

• Complimentary instructional cheese-making tutorial daily 11am and 3pm.

LIGHTS CAMERA ACTION

Wollombi Classic Film Festival Classic films have an uncanny ability to evoke raw emotion within the audience. They can bring us to tears, incite us to take action and inspire us to strive for greatness. From 26th to 28th February, the historic Hunter Valley village of Wollombi will pay homage to the timeless films that have shaped the cinematic landscape of the 21st Century with the inaugural Wollombi Classic Film Festival.

Film buffs, or those just looking for an excellent reason for a weekend getaway, will be treated to 6 classic films at 2 stunning venues, including outdoors in the Grays Inn Garden and indoors at the 1845 built St Michael’s Church. Both venues provide perfect locations for this boutique film festival and give visitors an opportunity to soak up the ambiance of a town affectionately known as the ‘arts end’ of the Hunter Valley.

The festival program is diverse, spanning 40+ years of classic cinema and includes Australian Classics Strictly Ballroom and Picnic at Hanging Rock as well as cinematic gems A Place in the Sun, Rebel Without a Cause, The Spy Who Came in from the Cold and Chinatown.

The festival opens with a Garden Cocktail Party in the Grays Inn garden with live music from Gareth Jay, canapés, complimentary Noyce Brothers wine until 8pm and then Strictly Ballroom to end the night in a blaze of colour.

There will be a licensed bar on site selling local wine and craft beers, and as with all Wollombi events, including the Wollombi Music Festival, Wollombi Market Day and others, country hospitality will very much be the order of the day.

With multiple accommodation options, including free camping at the iconic Wollombi Tavern and dining options including Panino’s Café and more, you’ll experience a great Hunter Valley getaway.

ARTISIAN AUSTRALIAN CHEESEMAKERS Located at Mcguigan Wine Complex 447 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998 7744

www.huntervalleycheese.com.au

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Wollombi Classic Film Festival is a limited ticket event with only 150 tickets available for the full festival program. Full Festival Weekend tickets are available for only $100. For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.wollombiclassicfilmfestival.com.au

Check out whats happening on

Hermitage Road NEW MATILDA BAY BREWHOUSE HUNTER VALLEY Winemakers say, “It takes alot of great beer to make a Hunter wine...”

What better way to finish off a hard day of wine-tasting than with a cleansing ale. We have 12 amazing craft beers for you to look at, analyse and taste… experience the unique Beer Tasting Paddle with tasting notes.

NEW LA GLACE GOURMET PRODUCE & DESSERT BAR La Glace is the oldest and probably best confectionary in Denmark.

Founded in the middle of old Copenhagen in 1870, it has through six generations delivered joy and quality to Copenhagen and its visitors.

In the best of Danish tradition, please come in and visit La Glace Dessert Bar at Hunter Valley Resort for the freshest Ice Creams, Chocolate, Cakes, and of course coffee. Did we mention our range of gourmet produce?

NEW SEGWAY TOURS The Hunter Valley has finally got a guided Segway Tour. Explore this historic region famous for its world class wine on your very own Segway! This amazing adventure starts off at the brewhouse at Hunter Valley Resort, before entering the off road tracks / trails of this vast bush land property and travelling along an old 1880’s stock route.

So make sure you bring your camera, it’s an experience not to be missed!

BARRETT’S

HUNTER WINE THEATRE At 11am & 2pm, see the 15 min movie following a grape through the winemaking process into the bottle.

The wine tutorial afterwards is a must do. Groups welcome.

HUNTER VALLEY - NEWCASTLE - LAKE MACQUARIE

HERMITAGE ROAD CELLARS 49 different wines from 12 small

CHARTER COACHES

MAKE OUR BUSES YOUR PLAN B!

Hunter producers, all at the one Cellar Door. Must be the largest selection of wines in the Hunter.

BINNORIE CHEESE DAIRY Arguably the best locally made cheeses in the area. You have not experienced the best cheese the Hunter has to offer if you miss this place.

Specialises in large groups with over 25 passengers • Social Clubs Weddings • Work Functions • Dinner Transfers

For more details and a free quote visit our website today!

www.kitchenerbusdepot.com

HUNTER VALLEY WINE SCHOOL Every day at 9am, the 2 hour Wine School includes a Vineyard inspection, experience the winemaking process, learn how to taste and blend wines. Finally, a personalised Wine Appreciation Certificate. Bookings essential.

HEAVENLY HUNTER MASSAGES Sally Margan’s Heavenly Hunter Massage Centre – the name says it all… Book in a Hawaiian Ka huna today.

Bookings essential.

BIG KIDS CANDY MAKING Make Rocky Road from scratch.

30min Massage + 30min Facial + 30min Pedicure

$149 (normally $207)

at Adina Vineyard 492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

facility. You travel along an old 1880’s stock route.. Kids can do the 20 minute pony ride too. Bookings essential.

Tyrrells

Broke Road

Hunter Gardens/ Cessnock Deasys Road

HUNTER VALLEY RESORT

Singleton/ Branxton

Mistletoe Lane

H ermitage Road

DELUXE TASTING PACKAGE

• Massage • Facials • Body Treatments • Pedicures/ Manicures • Hens Parties • Spa Packages

WINE COUNTRY HORSERIDING Pokolbin’s only horseriding

d Roa rth

Reflections Day Spa

Old No

Hunter Valley

Big Kids = Alcoholic Rocky Road… Also great activity for families, minus the alcohol of course! (Min 8 pax – bookings essential)

COME AND EXPERIENCE THE QUIETER SIDE OF POKOLBIN. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

For more information visit www.hunterresort.com.au or call 02 4998 7777

New England Highway

OPEN 7 days PH 4930 9006 • www.reflectionsdayspa.com.au

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Romancing THE HUNTER VALLEY It’s February, the month of romance and since wine and romance go together, you are definitely in the right place.

Romance at Peppers Convent

shopping, history or simply wish to be pampered and indulged. Either way, you are guaranteed to have the time of your life and with it some lasting memories.

A table for two dining alfresco under the stars on a warm night. A balloon flight over vineyards as you watch the sun rise. An afternoon spent tasting local wines. A tranquil horse-ride watching the sun set over the vineyards. These are the moments that inspire us to fall in love and create lasting memories, not just with the surroundings but with the person who's beside us.

There is a lovely old quote from a magical poem by the ancient Persian It’s hard to think of any other region that can offer such a diverse range poet Omar Khayyam that begins, “a jug of wine, a loaf of bread, and thou.” In many ways this quote has defined and encapsulated the perfect of experiences to excite our senses, relax our souls and spark some pairing for a romantic theme – great wine, good food and your soul mate. romance. Here are just a few suggestions to make your weekend away a memorable one.

Let’s face it there are few settings more beautiful and more romantic than the Hunter Valley. I mean who does not love a wine country escape? Give your day the perfect start with a fabulous breakfast at either The Deck Cafe at Gartlemann Estate, Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen in Lovedale, In a region that combines a stunning setting with awesome activities, Restaurant Eighty Eight at Peppers Convent, Epicure Café or Restaurant award-winning drops, scrumptious dining and romantic retreats with Cuvee at Peterson House. The choice is yours with all offering great some of the most exquisite landscape, the Hunter Valley has to be one of Australia’s most romantic destinations. Also, there is nothing quite like views, wonderfully tempting menus and just as important - excellent coffee! drinking world class wines in a beautiful countryside to get you in the mood for romance. It's certainly a lovers' paradise.

An early morning hot air balloon adventure is well worth a couple of hours sleep deprivation and the breathtaking early morning view whilst Think boutique accommodation, vineyards, bird filled waterways and dams, quaint historic villages and towns, rugged mountains, lush gardens cuddling up in a hot-air balloon with your partner is a wonderful way to see the Hunter Valley vineyards and mountain ranges. and parks with picnic areas, candle-lit dinners and delicious world class wine - that's the romance of the Hunter Valley. Here the seemingly Balloon Aloft pilots and owners Nicola and Matt Scaife are no strangers to endless vineyards, mountains and picturesque valleys come together to drifting over the vines at sunrise and average between 25 to 30 proposals form the perfect backdrop for any romantic weekend away or special each year - testimony to just how romantic hot air balloon flights can be. occasion.

Their VIP balloon flights for two are perfect for proposals, anniversaries, special occasions or just to treat yourselves. Back on terra firma, flights The diversity of the Hunter Valley ensures that there is something for everyone - whether you are a lover of wine, food, art, adventure, nature, conclude with a gourmet breakfast at Peterson House.

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The idea of taking a leisurely ramble in wine country on horseback also has a definite romantic appeal that is fast catching on. After all, what could be more enjoyable and romantic than watching the sun rise as you and your horse move through the quiet of the morning or an early evening ride with your partner as you watch the sun set behind the mountain range just ahead of you? An afternoon spent on a noble steed that ends sipping on last years’ golden vintage could well be a delicious memory in the making.

Horse rides are available every day for both experienced or beginner riders at Hunter Valley Horse Riding and Adventures on Talga Road in Lovedale. Riders also get to choose whether they want to go on a trail ride with a qualified guide or arrange a personalised ride for that special occasion.

When it comes to wine and romance, there are several ways to put the romance of wine into practice. It could be with a simple glass of wine before dinner, a sit-down dinner with wine and candles, or a glass of port or Moscato after dinner with a fruit and cheese platter. It’s a way to celebrate the joys and tribulations of everyday life.

Not only is the Hunter Valley renowned for having some of the best winemakers producing some of the finest wines in the world, but there are also numerous ways to bring wine and wine appreciation into your life with many cellar doors offering ultimate wine experiences, winery tours and food and wine appreciation classes.

Venture out with your loved one and taste what the Hunter Valley is all about. Travel from winery to winery, tasting wines with sweet and savoury pairings. Cellar door staff will gladly introduce you to the pleasures of wine as they take you through the current vintages and the varieties that thrive in the region that include Semillon and Shiraz, Chardonnay and Verdelho - many of which rank amongst the best in the world.

In the warmer weather, there's nothing better than dining outdoors and there's something about dining outdoors that makes a meal that little more intimate and everything taste extra delicious.

With February temperatures generally sitting in the mid to late 20's, we should be in for some sunny days and mild evenings, just perfect for the romance of al fresco dining. There is no shortage of fabulous restaurants and cafes offering outdoor dining in the Hunter Valley, so why not head out for a long lunch or early dinner under the stars and be romanced by the local countryside, vineyard and mountain views as you dine al fresco - Hunter style.

For those with a sweet tooth, the afternoon should be capped off with a visit to Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar – the Hunter’s sweet spot! With over 50 different desserts and wines to pair with them, it's a unique and indulgent experience and an absolute must!

What romantic getaway would be complete without chocolates? After all, nothing can stimulate the senses and create a sense of euphoria as decadently and effectively as chocolate. Universally adored, it’s one of life's perfect indulgences and in the Hunter Valley, the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company is the sweetest and most addictive attraction around.

A romantic weekend away is also all about a little self-indulgence and Hunter Valley Reflections Day Spa at Adina Vineyard has tailor-made some great packages for happy couples.

Owner Kerrin Nickisson, has created the Pamper Package for couples which involves a 50 minutes full body relaxation massage for two for just $185. Alternatively, couples can upgrade to the Couples Indulgence spa package - a 130 minutes treatment for $499 and involves a full body relaxation massage, a deluxe facial and an essential pedicure to finish off and soothe those tired feet. After your treatment relax on the deck with a glass of Adina wine.

But every romantic getaway has to come to an end and there is no better way to conclude the perfect escape than with a slow and gentle wander through the spectacular Hunter Valley Gardens. Spanning over 60 acres, together you can explore more than eight kilometres of walking paths whilst taking in the sensational sights, colours, and fragrances of the ten stunning feature gardens - with a new discovery at every turn.

MAKE IT A DATE: •Grab a gourmet picnic pack from Calais Estate.

•The Len Evans Lookout at Constable Estate boasts 360 degree valley views, plus beautiful gardens and sculptures.

•A game of boules, croquet and a picnic at Misty Glen Wines.

•Check out Pokolbin Gallery and Sculpture Garden at Mistletoe Wines.

• Wander through the historic town of Wollombi, taking your time to look through shops, cellar doors and of course the tavern… With scenic views and quality places to stay, this could be a great romantic weekend away. The Wollombi Classic Film Festival is on from Feb 26 -28 - perhaps a belated Valentine’s Day weekend?

•The Hunter Valley Zoo at Nulkaba – not just for kids!

•Live music at Harrigan’s and Peterson House every Sunday. Both have great views and amazing food!

•Along with their great live music and drinks, Peterson House Oyster Bar serves up amazing oysters, prawns and cheese/ antipasto platters on Sundays - with local tunes from 11am to 3pm.

•To keep the oyster tradition going, taste half a dozen oysters in six different ways at Twine Restaurant!

•Enjoy a 4 course banquet menu to share at Goldfish Bar and Kitchen. Available lunch or dinner for $150 per couple or $230 per couple with matched wines and cocktails with each dish.

•Hunter Resort on Hermitage Road offer Segway Tours, Big Kids Candy Making (did someone say alcoholic rocky road?), Heavenly Hunter Massages and Wine Country Horseriding.

•Hunter Valley Reflections Day Spa have indulgent packages for both you and your loved one.

•A wander through Hunter Valley Gardens – take in the beautiful gardens and scenery, the shopping village or even a game of Putt Putt or Aqua Golf.

•For the creatives, cheese platter making or glassblowing lessons are available at Ogishi Craft Centre on Wilderness Road.

Bookings are essential.

•Pasta or Sushi making classes available at Sandalyn Estate.

•Indulge in the sweet spots – Hunter Valley Chocolate Company and Sabor in the Hunter.

•Try delicious Gins, Vodkas, Liqueurs and Schnapps with a tasting at Hunter Distillery.

•Share Meze plates at Ridgeview Estate.

•For the beer lovers, tasting paddles are available at Matilda Bay Brewhouse, Hope Estate and Hunter Beer Co. •Pick up a sweet or savoury delicious platter from PK’s on Pokolbin and enjoy wherever you like!

•How about a 5 course degustation menu (Feb 13 + 14) at Esca Bimbadgen - $100pp or $130pp with matching wines.

11 | FEBRUARY 2016 thb

RobThomas AND THE

GREAT UNKOWN

American singer, songwriter Rob Thomas has had an ongoing, 20-year long, love affair with Australian audiences – both as the frontman, lead vocalist and key songwriter for Matchbox Twenty and also as a major solo artist.

This month, that romance will continue as Thomas makes a very welcome return to Australia for a national headline tour which includes playing at Hope Estate on Saturday, February 27. Thomas is touring in support of his first solo album in more than six years, the long-awaited ’The Great Unknown’ - his first solo album since ’Cradlesong’ in 2009.

“I’ll be playing some of the new stuff, some of the old stuff, a little bit of everything, it’s pretty exciting…”

Joining Rob Thomas on all dates will be special guest Pete Murray, with Darren Middleton of Powderfinger fame also appearing.

Rob Thomas knows his way around writing a hit and is arguably the most accomplished singer/songwriter of his generation. Between Matchbox Twenty, his solo work, and his various collaborations with iconic artists that include Santana, Mick Jagger and Willie Nelson, Thomas has been one of modern music’s most compelling and commercially successful artists for well over a decade and has sold more than 80 million albums worldwide.

After more than 20 years of songwriting, Thomas is comfortable with his career, which includes solo hits Lonely No More, This Is How a Heart Breaks, Streetcorner Symphony, and Matchbox Twenty's Push, 3AM, If You're Gone and Bent. In 2000, he won three Grammy Awards for cowriting and singing on Carlos Santana’s “Smooth”. The record-breaking track topped Billboard’s “Hot 100” for an astounding 12 consecutive

thb 12 | FEBRUARY 2016

weeks and spent 58 weeks on the chart, the No.1 song in Billboard’s “Top Hot 100 Rock Songs” chart history and No. 2 “Hot 100” song of all time.

2005 saw the release of Rob’s first solo album, 'Something to Be' which made history as the first album by a male artist from a rock or pop group to debut at No. 1 on The Billboard 200. The album also went on to earn a pair of Grammy nominations and create a string of hit singles, including the smash Lonely No More – which went to No. 1 in 15 countries, This Is How A Heart Breaks, Ever The Same, and Streetcorner Symphony.

Rob released his second solo album, 'Cradlesong' in 2009 which features the chart-topping singles Her Diamonds and Someday. Rob made Billboard chart history once again as the only male artist with multiple No.1 hits at Adult Top 40.

In 2012, Matchbox Twenty returned with their first all-new album in a decade, 'North' which included the hit singles, She's So Mean, Overjoyed, and Our Song. The album proved a landmark for the band, their first ever No.1 debut and Billboard 200 chart-topper.

As a charismatic and engaging live performer, Thomas has spent much of the past 20 years, on the road, touring with Matchbox Twenty and also on his own as a solo artist.

Outside of music, Thomas and his wife Marisol are also dedicated philanthropists, establishing The Sidewalk Angels Foundation in 2003.

Sidewalk Angels is dedicated to providing critically needed funds and support to grassroots groups across the country. It is the primary supporter and sponsor of a number of no-kill animal shelters and animal rescues, reflecting the passion of the foundation’s co-founders to fight for the rights and fair treatment of those with no voice. Additionally, the foundation also supports a myriad of other causes, from childhood health and wellness to the fight against homelessness.

Hospitality packages are still available at Hope Estate for the Rob Thomas Concert. For more information and bookings call 1800 777 444 or head to www.hopeestate.com.au

An exciting & unique tasting experience.

We invite you to sample our Hunter made speciality Liqueurs (the Chocolate Port is to die for), Extra Virgin Olive Oils, Infused Olive Oils, our famous Caramelised Balsamic Vinegar, and our amazing range of Gourmet Stuffed Olives!

Choose a designer bottle to compliment your new favourite liqueur, and let us tailor make your wedding bonbonniere, or corporate gift packages.

Now in two great locations: 23 Ogilvie St DENMAN | PH 6547 2840 Shop 6 Hunter Valley Gardens, Broke Rd POKOLBIN | PH 4998 7455

www.huntervalleyliqueurs.com.au Indulge with

Hunter Valley

Chocolate

We invite you to indulge in our fine range of unique hand-made chocolate products and our huge variety of freshly made fudge.

Our chocolates are produced using the finest Belgian couverture, Australian dried fruits and nuts, and distilled pure fruit oils.

Peterson House • Cnr Broke Rd & Wine Country Dr • Ph 4998 7301 Hunter Valley Gardens Village • Shop 5, Broke Rd, Pokolbin • Ph 4998 7221 TWENTY - 3 - TWENTY • 2320 Broke Rd, Pokolbin • Ph 4998 6999

www.hvchocolate.com.au • admin@hvchocolate.com.au

Hunter Valley

Horse Ridingures & Advent

Trail Rides for Beginners and Experienced Riders

Pony Rides • Family Rides • Picnics • BBQ’s • Breakfast Rides Personalised Rides • Hiking & Mountain Bike Trails Sunset Rides • Kangaroos • Spectacular Valley Views Tractor Hay Rides to Feed the Animals!

All things bees and honey!

Free tastings daily of a huge range of local and not so local honeys Hunter Valley Gardens Village Pokolbin Entry through the General Store… PH 4998 7191

VALENTINES DAY

Romantic Horseriding

MARK YOUR DIARY Teddy Bears Picnic on Easter Sunday

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 Countrys attractions, yet you feel a million miles away..

13 | FEBRUARY 2016 thb

RISING TO NEW HEIGHTS Gwyn Olsen - Head Winemaker of Davis Premium Vineyards + Pepper Tree Wines Since joining Briar Ridge Vineyard as Chief Winemaker almost 3 years ago, Gwyn Olsen has become recognised as one of the most talented winemakers in Australia and the winemaker to watch in 2016. But for Gwyn, it’s just another day in the winery doing what she does best.

Raised in Cairns, Gwyn only really decided upon a career in wine during her final year at University where she was studying to be a biochemist.

To Gwyn – making wine seemed like much more fun! This then led to Gwyn studying Oenology at Roseworthy University in Adelaide.

After graduating in 2005, Gwyn set off to work on three vintages in France - Languedoc, St Emillion and Burgundy before then taking on Assistant Winemaking role at Villa Maria in New Zealand where she was also promoted to Operations Winemaker. Gwyn then returned to Australia where she was offered a position at McWilliams Wines with the pivotal role of building the production across both New Zealand and the Hunter Valley.

In 2013, she accepted the position of Chief Winemaker at Briar Ridge, and soon after added General Manager to her role. With her natural ability evident, Gwyn was appointed Head Winemaker for Davis Premium Vineyards & Pepper Tree Wines in October 2015. The new role encompasses Gwyn overseeing the winemaking for Briar Ridge, Tallavera Grove and Carillion Vineyard in Orange.

Gwyn’s achievements so early in her career are impressive. In 2015, Gwyn was awarded the Rising Star of the Year award at the Hunter Valley Legends Awards, as well as becoming a Len Evans Tutorial Scholar - described as the most exclusive wine school in the world. This followed

on from a very successful 2014 when Gwyn was awarded the prestigious Gourmet Traveller WINE, Young Winemaker Medal.

Additionally, in 2012 Gwyn was awarded the title of ‘Dux’ at the Australian Wine Research Institute, Advanced Wine Assessment Course.

"Gwyn is as an individual with exceptional judging skill and deserves the opportunity to be fast-tracked into the national wine show system," said Con Simos, Coordinator of the AWAC. As a result, Gwyn now judges at six wine shows throughout Australia, including two National Wine Shows – Adelaide and Melbourne.

Gwyn’s enthusiasm and dedication to the Hunter Valley wine industry, passion for creating wines with a strong sense of place, and the confidence to push boundaries in winemaking is evident in the success she has had. Along with her numerous awards, Gwyn’s wines have won six trophies and gold medals in the past two years.

John Davis, Pepper Tree chairman, described Olsen as “one of the country’s most exciting young winemakers.”

“Gwyn brings not only her much-awarded winemaking skills but also great business acumen at a time when our company is making important growth plans in both local and international markets. We look forward to the future with great anticipation”.

Gwyn is already enjoying the challenges and opportunities to craft diverse, high-quality wines for the Briar Ridge and Pepper Tree Wine brands and is particularly excited about winemaking across Coonawarra, Wrattonbully and Orange areas.

• Hundreds of colourful hand blown &

crystal wine glasses • Exciting selection of unusual glass vases, lamps & homewares • Large selection of Cheryl Cusicks latest original artworks • Many uniquely coloured tea lights & lamps • Souvenirs - Australian & the Hunter Valley • Comical wine glasses, coasters & magnets Shop 3, Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village Phone 4998 6888 • Open 7 Days

thb 14 | FEBRUARY 2016

Wine Glass Gallery Because great wine deserves a great wine glass

Over 3,000 colourful eclectic products to choose from...

Come and enjoy a friendly Hunter Valley Experience!

The Hunter's

Biggest Beer Garden

on the beautiful rolling lawns at Hope Estate.

What better way to celebrate the return of warm weather than kicking back with a tasting paddle of craft beer made on-site at Hope Estate?

With 12 beers on tap there's something for everyone.

It’s a family-friendly vibe, with live music every Saturday & Sunday.

Entry is free except for the Rob Thomas Concert (Saturday 27th February) - you will have to buy a ticket that day.

Hospitality packages are still available for Rob Thomas Concert with guest Pete Murray on Saturday 27th February.

For more information or bookings go to www.hopeestate.com.au or call 1800 777 444.

HOPE ESTATE 2213 Broke Road, Pokolbin | Ph 4993 3555 | www.hopeestate.com.au

PETERSON HOUSE PREMIUM SPARKLING WINES

Cellar Door Open 7 days 9am-5pm

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

Australian Premium Sparkling Wines

Corner Broke Road & Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin 2320 P 02 4998 7881 www.petersonhouse.com.au www.facebook.com/PetersonHouseltd

Cheers Bus

Hunter Valley Guided Winery Tours • Personalised, professional tour in an air conditioned mini bus, seven days per week • Pick up from your local accommodation or from Sydney, Central Coast, Maitland and Singleton areas and be escorted throughout the day • Witness the beauty and tranquillity of Hunter Wine Country on route to our chosen boutique cellar doors, as well as vodka, schnapps, cheese, olive and chocolate tastings • Wedding, restaurant, concert and airport transfers available

book@cheersbus.com • Call John on 0408 987 057 15 | FEBRUARY 2016 thb

Avocado and Cacao Tart

Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 8-10)

AVOCADO A Sweet Surprise

Many of us enjoy avocado in guacamole, salads and on toast, but avocado in a dessert? Though avocados have been recognised in many countries around the world as a dessert delicacy, here in Australia we have been a bit slow to catch on.

While around three-quarters of the calories in an avocado come from fat, it is mostly healthy mono-saturated fat, making avocado a great substitute for butter or oil in desserts. Avocados offer not only a mellow flavour that allows other flavours to stand out but also provides the smooth, thick consistency needed for many vegan and raw desserts.

Golden Door Health Retreat and Spa Elysia have shared their avocado and cacao tart recipe so you can reap the rewards of using avocado as a healthy substitute in your cooking at home.

2/3 cup raw almonds 8 fresh Medjool dates (pitted) Finely grated zest and juice of 1/2 mandarin 2 avocados 3 tablespoons cacao powder 3 tablespoons coconut sugar 1 1/2 tablespoons coconut oil 3-4 drops natural vanilla extract 1 teaspoon maca powder 250 g fresh berries such as raspberries, blueberries and strawberries Method • Line a 25 cm spring-form cake tin with cling wrap. To make the base, grind the almonds and dates together in a food processor until well combined, almost to a paste. Add mandarin zest and juice and process until it forms a soft dough.

Place mixture into lined tin and press to cover the base.

• To make the filling, place all filling ingredients in a food processor and blend until silky smooth.

Spoon on top of the base and smooth out.

• Freeze for 2 hours, then serve with fresh berries

It’s never been easier.

The most popular guide to Hunter Valley cellar doors, restaurants and gourmet foods and the only publication with a specific focus on wine and food.

Includes handy Wine & Food Trail Maps for each wine producing area as well as dining reviews and wine tasting notes.

Look for the gold sticker at featured restaurants and wineries.

NEW ISSUE OUT NOW! thb 16 | FEBRUARY 2016

AS SEEN IN

Y

HUNTER VALLE

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Designed to Delight.

Premium Wines • Spectacular Views 2342 Broke Rd, Pokolbin. Open 10am - 5pm Daily PH 4998 6722 • www.lambloch.com • cellardoor@lambloch.com

For an altogether sweet experience, a visit to one of Sabor in the Hunter’s Dessert Bars is a MUST! Pair something scrumptious with a delicious Hunter Valley wine…. it’s a unique Hunter Valley experience that you can only enjoy at a Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar.

Book ea Vale rly for ntine Day! s

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.

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

There is also a large range of gluten free desserts, barista-made Glinelli coffee and a selection of teas to enjoy amongst the vines or to take away and savour in your home or hotel.

Enjoy a world of desserts at a Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar near you!

POKOLBIN At Lambloch Estate, 2342 Broke Rd, Pokolbin • PH 1300 958 939 Thurs 10am-4:30pm, Fri & Sat 10am-9:30pm, Sun & Mon 10am-4:30pm

LOVEDALE 319 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale • PH 1300 958 850 Open Saturday & Sunday 10am - 4.30pm www.saborinthehunter.com.au

17 | FEBRUARY 2016 thb

FOOD AND WINE

THE FLAMING 5 | Crème Brûlée WORDS Di von Essen

Crème Brȗlée comes in many forms – and also has many names.

Depending on where you’re from, you might also know this tasty little dessert as Burnt Cream, Crema Catalana, or Trinity Cream.

Whatever you call it – it’s deliciously sweet, creamy perfection may just make it the perfect dessert for sharing with your significant other this Valentine’s Day! The basic recipe consists of a rich custard base topped with a contrasting layer of hard caramel and is typically served at room temperature. The hardened caramel on top needs to be “cracked through” to access the dessert – adding an element of fun. The egg custard base is traditionally flavoured with vanilla, but can have a variety of other flavourings (as you’re about to find out!)

Crème Brûlée is usually served in individual ramekins. Discs of caramel can be prepared separately and put on top just before serving but usually, the caramel is formed directly on top of the custard, immediately before serving – most often using a butane torch.

Trinity College in Cambridge, England claims to be the birthplace of the dessert, there known as a ‘burnt cream’ or ‘trinity cream’ due to the burning or branding of the college crest into sugar on top of the custard using a hot iron (which is still on display at the school).

In what may be another Pavlovian-style argument, the French also claim ownership with a recipe recorded in a French cookbook for the first time in 1691 and the Catalans have also staked a claim with their ‘Catalana Cream'. This method introduces citrus to the mix with a rich custard that is often flavoured with lemon or orange zest and topped with caramelised sugar. When it comes down to it – it doesn’t really matter where it came from – we just love to eat it!

Many a Hunter Valley menu boasts its own unique twist on the Crème Brûlée. Here are five of our favourites…

Restaurant Cuvee Chocolate Crème Brûlée. Described as the “Chocolate sinners delight”, this decadent chocolate crème brûlée with 15 pistachio biscotti, rich chocolate soil and white chocolate and peppermint bubbles is heaven on a plate. + Best Wine Match Peterson House Sparkling Fortified Shiraz ($11.50/glass or $32/ bottle at on-site Cellar Door) Twine Restaurant Cappuccino Crème Brûlée. This feisty little

brûlée has an inbuilt caffeine hit tempered by its sidekick - almond and orange biscotti. + Best Wine Match 2009 McLeish Estate Jessica Botrytis Semillon ($11/glass or $32/bottle)

Circa 1876 Truffle Crème Brûlée Foam. Served with truffle

honeycomb, rhubarb, crème Fraiche ice cream and truffle honey. + Best Wine Match 2013 Mistletoe Petite Muscat ($18 at Cellar Door)

Sabor in the Hunter (Pokolbin) Crème Brûlée Flambé.

Traditional French style creamy dessert made up of a smooth vanilla bean custard base, finished with a hard caramelised shell which is topped with "STROH" rum and lit at the table. + Best Wine Match Lambloch Flipside Muscat of Alexandria ($25/bottle at onsite Cellar Door) Matilda Bay Brewhouse Brûlée with Biscotti. The Brule is traditional and served with crunchy biscotti (twice-baked Italian almond biscuits). + Best Wine Match – OK – we’re going to go out on a limb here since you’re in a brew-house and suggest a Dirty Granny Apple Cider (yes really!)

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Tips for Matching Wine with Brulee One of the most delicious wine pairings is dessert. It’s also one of the trickiest because many desserts have two ingredients that don’t necessarily pair comfortably with wine: dairy and sweets. Keep in mind that crème brûlée is a smooth and elegant dessert — you don’t want to match it with a bold wine or you’ll lose that slight bitterness of the caramelised crust when it’s contrasted with the creamy base. Best Bets: Muscat – This white varietal has a slight sweetness to it.

Typical flavours in Muscat wines include apricots and almonds, which complement the lush vanilla custard. Pairing a Muscat with crème brûlée also brings down the sweetness of the custard just a bit because although it has a slight sweetness, it isn't over the top like other dessert wines.

Gewürztraminer – This might seem like a surprising choice with a rich crème brûlée, but when you look at it terms of flavour and balance, it actually makes sense. Gewürztraminer is a dry, spicy wine with nice acidity. The acidity cuts through the fat of the custard while the dryness of the wine helps balance the sweetness of the dessert. The spice of Gewürztraminer brings character to the mild vanilla flavours of the crème brûlée. This is an excellent wine choice for people who like their desserts slightly less sweet.

Botrytis Semillon – Wines made from botrytized (rotting) grapes are generally medium sweet to very sweet, typically displaying aromas and flavours of tropical, stone and soft citrus fruits, honey, marzipan and liquorice. These wines are excellent with desserts and cheeses alike.

RESTAURANT

A two course, deliciously priced and presented dinner, including a mixed sweet plate to share for two, is available until the 29th of February 2016 for just $70 per person (food only).

Eighty Eight is a restaurant for lovers. Those passionate about sustainability and fresh food will be enraptured with this experience of simple flavours and delicate plating.

Nestled within the grounds of Peppers Convent, and offering superb service and comfort, make sure to add 88 to your next foodie trail through the Hunter Valley. Farm to fork dining at its best!

Breakfast All days 8am – 10am Lunch Thurs – Sun 12 – 3pm Dinner Thurs – Sun 6:30pm – Late

Twine is the ultimate for those who enjoy modern Australian food with a twist.

Open 7 days for lunch and Friday, Saturday and Sunday for Dinner "a la carte".

Group bookings welcome anytime.

Located at Wynwood Estate - 310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin 2320.

PH (02) 4998 7449

Bookings essential: Ph 02 4998 4999 | convent@peppers.com.au 88 Halls Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 | www.theconventhuntervalley.com

19 | FEBRUARY 2016 thb

WEIRD FOOD

Grasshoppers anyone?

WEIRD and {often} Wonderful Foods of the World WORDS Quentin von Essen People are now far more adventurous in trying new and foreign foods than they were five to ten years ago. One of the most exciting and pleasurable aspects of traveling and exploring foreign cultures is experiencing all the different and often very exotic foods from the countries you visit - albeit that you may well be required to have a strong stomach to deal with what you find. In many cases, these foods have come about out of necessity – the desperate need to survive through extreme famine or food shortages brought about by wars and droughts.

If the idea of eating snails, frog’s legs, tripe (offal) or lamb brains no longer revolts you, how does the idea of eating white ant soup, pigs blood cake and scorpion soup sound?

No list of weird and wonderful foods would be complete without including the Scottish Haggis. If you are a vegetarian, you might want to skip the next item on this list (or perhaps not), because Haggis origins are a little gross. It’s traditionally made from sheep stomach, onion and spices, but don’t let that put you off! It’s actually a delicious, hearty meal and is perfect when served with neeps and tatties (aka mashed turnip and mashed potatoes).

Ever had blood for breakfast? Well, it's widely available and tasty too. In Europe and parts of Asia dishes made with animal blood are common cuisine. Blood Pudding, also known as black pudding, is a sausage comprised of cooked blood and fillers, like grains, potatoes or fat. This dark congealed patty is a popular treat in Ireland where traditional Irish breakfast would typically consist of fried eggs, bacon, tomatoes, sausage,

thb 20 | FEBRUARY 2016

toast, potatoes and an engaging portion of blood pudding. Black pudding is also well-loved in Scotland where it is often served with a full Scottish greasy breakfast. It’s so popular that Stornoway Black Pudding (where they say the best black pudding comes from) has protected status.

Yes, it may be hard to believe that Chicken Feet are a much-loved food and especially in East Asia, Caribbean, South America and also South Africa. Considering how many places it’s eaten, perhaps it’s unfair to deem this food as being weird. Still, it’s made mostly of skin making it a little gelatinous in texture. It is said that they are pretty tasty when flavoured properly.

While it may look like a pretty gruesome dish, Khash is a delicacy in the Middle East, East Europe and Turkey. Consisting of stewed cow's feet and head, it was once a winter comfort food but is now considered a delicacy.

I’m sure it’s fine, so long as you don’t mind that grinning skull staring back at you!

Ever considered eating the rotting carcass of a Greenland or basking (Somniosidae) shark? In Iceland, this food is called Hákarl. In this instance, the shark’s carcass is buried underground in a shallow pit and pressed with stones so the poisonous internal fluids that allow it to live in such cold waters can be drained from it, making the meat safe to eat.

After this, it’s hung out to dry before being cut into strips and served.

With a smell that’s described as ammonia-rich and a strong ‘fishyflavour’, it has been described as the single most disgusting and terrible tasting thing ever tried.

Cambodians from the town of Skuon in the Kampong Cham Province of Cambodia began eating Fried Tarantulas during the years of food shortage under the Khmer Rouge. Today they are a popular tourist attraction for passing tourists and sold as specialty snacks. The spiders are about the size of a human palm and are bred in holes in the ground or foraged for in the forests and then fried in oil. Apparently, the tarantulas are crispy on the outside with white meat in the head and body and taste vaguely like chicken or cod.

Another exotic dish that you just have to try is White Ant Eggs Soup which is available in Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam where it is considered a delicacy. White ant soup (or Gaeng Kai Mot Daeng) has to be one of the world’s more unusual soups and combines a mixture of ant eggs and partial embryos from the white ant, with a few baby ants added for sourness. If your stomach can handle it, the soup is supposedly quite tasty and tastes a little like prawns. It is said that the eggs pop in the mouth, releasing a sour flavour. Too much information?

Chicken Feet don't look to bad...

The Japanese people are renown for having an incredibly diverse range of delicious foods that include some very exotic and even bizarre ingredients. Nothing could possibly be more strange than Japan Fish Sperm (or Shirako). As mysterious as its name sounds, Shirako is simply the male genitalia of fish that still contains all the fluids and is a popular delicacy and available at most Izakaya (Japanese pubs) and sushi bars. The cod fish sperm, looks very much like pig or cow brain, has a buttery taste and when eaten, the outer membrane bursts in the mouth releasing the watery texture from within.

Just the idea of being served Scorpion Soup is enough to freak most people out and have them break out in a cold sweat. Traditionally eaten in Southern China, scorpions are said to have a nice, wooden taste and their venom is neutralized by the cooking process. No doubt the preparation is more dangerous than the eating!

To Europe and Italy where Casu Marzu (rotten cheese) is the traditional sheep milk cheese in Sardinia and notable for containing live insect larvae. These larvae are deliberately introduced to the cheese, promoting an advanced level of fermentation and breaking down of the cheese's fats. Casu Marzu is considered to be unsafe to eat when the maggots in the cheese have died. Because of this, only cheese in which the maggots are still alive is usually eaten, although allowances are made for cheese that has been refrigerated, which can kill the maggots. That’s nice!

Fried Tarantulas in Cambodia

When it comes to a list of weird and exotic foods, we cannot ignore Locusts which are eaten throughout the world especially Israel, parts of Africa and Asia. In ancient Greece and Rome, fried locusts, cicadas, and grasshoppers were considered a delicacy superior to the best meat or fish and have enormous nutritional value. I suppose to eat the thing that has eaten your food has a twisted poetic justice to it especially when locusts are a much higher source of protein than the grains they’re devouring. Locusts can be eaten in many different ways - chocolate covered, deep fried, boiled, breaded or pan-fried.

Ok, now before we get all squeamish and judgmental, Australia is on this list as well. Witchetty Grubs are part of the Australian ‘bushmeat’ family and is a staple of Indigenous Australians in the desert. These can either be eaten raw, when it tastes like almonds, or lightly cooked, where its skin crisps like roast chicken and its insides take on the look and consistency of scrambled egg Time will tell if this adventurous spirit advances to the point where it becomes relatively common to eat edible insects like grasshoppers, locusts, honey-pot ants and tomato hornworm.

Just don’t be surprised when you walk into a restaurant and see these unique foods on the menu – because it’s coming.

Blood Pudding also known as Black Pudding

21 | FEBRUARY 2016 thb

WINE + FOOD

red wines, Pinot Noir is the preferred match here but a Gamay would suit as well. If a white wine is your preference, then a dry Pinot Gris would do the job nicely.

Raw salmon such as salmon sashimi or tartare

A very popular dish that is served wonderfully fresh. Try a crisp fresh white such as a Pinot Grigio, Sancerre or a crisp Chenin Blanc. Also, try a dry RosĂŠ which is a surprisingly good match with salmon sashimi.

Cold poached salmon with mayonnaise

Perfect Match

Wine with Salmon One of my all-time favourite foods is salmon. Whether it be seared or grilled, blackened or barbecued, salmon fishcakes, tandoori salmon, smoked salmon and raw salmon such as salmon sashimi or tartare, I always look for it on a restaurant menu. It’s also a perfect summer dish.

Despite it being a rich, oily and flaky fish, salmon is also relatively easy to pair with wine. Being lighter than red meat, but heavier than other white fish varieties, the ideal wines to enjoy with salmon are those that are crisp, fresh and dry enough to be paired alongside salmon but still hold their own flavour.

Here we take into consideration the thick, creamy texture and rich flavour of mayonnaise. Chablis is an incredibly reliable pairing for this kind of dish but other crisp dry whites like Pinot Grigio or a crisp Chenin Blanc will match well too.

Warm salmon with hollandaise or beurre blanc sauce

Rich with butter and with a smooth and creamy texture, this is a classic salmon dish that matches well with a good quality oak-aged (but not too oakey) Chardonnay to complement the creamy flavours. A white burgundy would also be a wonderful match.

Blackened or barbecued salmon

Red wines such as Merlot and Zinfandel go nicely with Cajun or Creolestyle spicing. When it comes to white wines, wines with a lower alcohol level such as Pinot Grigio, Muscat or Gewurztraminer, pair wonderfully with the heat of Cajun and Creole dishes and lack the sharp tannic quality of reds.

That said, salmon is a rich fish, often served with cream or butter and, therefore, a natural candidate to pair with a medium-to-full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay.

Tandoori salmon

Ultimately, it is the way the salmon is prepared and what dressing (sauce or seasoning) is used in the dish that will determine which wine should go in your glass, so here are a few pairing tips:

Smoked salmon

Seared or grilled salmon

This is when the pairing gets interesting. Because salmon is a meaty fish if you grill or char it, you can pair it with a red. Being one of the lighter

harkhamwineS harkhamwineS

thb 22 | FEBRUARY 2016

When it comes to Indian spicing, try a white wine such as a dry Riesling or Pinot Gris rather than a red.

Smoked salmon is best suited to off-dry, lower alcohol wines. A Gewurztraminer, Riesling, Chenin Blanc or White Zinfandel softens and rounds the smoke flavours and counter-balances the salt content of the smoked salmon.

Your always welcome at...

Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant

There is nothing quite like a festive sushi platter to impress your guests.

It tastes healthy, light and delicious.

A favourite dining experience for locals and visitors alike.

Always fresh... Always vibrant Open 7 days for lunch and dinner.

Takeaway available every day.

J A P A N E S E T H A I C U I S I N E

Tempus Two Complex, Hunter Valley Corner of Broke Rd & Mcdonald Rd’s Pokolbin, NSW 2320 PH 02 4998 7051 www.oishii.com.au

/OishiiPokolbin

PK's on Pokolbin

is a locally owned, recently refurbished café with a casual and relaxed atmosphere.

Our outdoor area is perfect for a quick catch up or a long lunch with friends and family, serving barista coffees and an all day breakfast from 8am.

Create your own tasty gourmet toasted Turkish, sandwich or wrap or choose something sweet from our delicious patisserie range.

We can also prepare platters of all sizes to take with you on your wine tasting adventure.

PK's on Pokolbin is conveniently located right next door to the Hunter Valley Visitor Centre, making it the first place you should stop when visiting Wine Country.

PH (02) 4990 4002

455 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin NSW 2320

a must visit!

Epicure Café is an exciting new Café that has opened in the heart of wine country, situated next to renowned Cellar door – The Small Winemakers Centre on McDonald’s Road.

The café has a covered terrace overlooking a picturesque setting and the atmosphere is perfect for those looking for a place to eat breakfast or lunch – and anything in between.

Open daily, they have a great menu showcasing local produce and an extensive Hunter wine list, beers on tap and craft beers by the bottle. If you’re looking for somewhere with a great atmosphere, a cleverly executed menu and wonderful service – this café is one to visit and one to watch!

For bookings PH (02) 4998 6665 E eat@epicurecafe.com.au

OPEN 9AM - 5PM 7 DAYS 2/246 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

AWARD WINNING VENUE

LIVE MUSIC AND GREAT FOOD AT POTTERS HOTEL BREWERY RESORT

HOME OF

Voted Best TAB - Country NSW and Best Unique Beer Offering in NSW, Potters Hotel Brewery Resort has it all. Make your next stop in Wine Country something completely different. Live music each weekend and jumping castle for the kiddies on a Sunday.

RELAX

BREWERY

BEER

WINE COUNTRY’S FIRST MICRO-BREWERY

BRASSERIE

FOOD TOURS

WINE COUNTRY DRIVE, NULKABA NSW 2325 | PH (02) 4991 7922 | WWW.POTTERSHBR.COM.AU

23 | FEBRUARY 2016 thb

WINE + ROMANCE

Wines for

SPECIAL Occasions

It's no secret that wine is a catalyst and enabler of romance, but how it works is not so well-known.

Dr. Max Lake, who founded Lakes Folly winery in 1963, gave up his work as a surgeon in 1979 to concentrate on his love and interest in wine and food. Flavour and pleasure were two guiding principles of his life and he had a fascination for how taste, smell and flavour shaped humanity.

In addition to making wine, Lake wrote widely on wine and food and in 1966, he published the landmark book Classic Wines of Australia, followed by several other books about wine including Hunter Wine, Scents and Sensuality. According to Lake, the aromas of certain wines can spark arousal. In the case of some wines, the scents replicate the effects of human pheromones.

Whether you are going out or are staying in for dinner with your special one on Valentine’s Day (or any other special occasion for that matter), wines should always be in the equation. So, let’s get started with a few suggestions for sparkling, white, red and dessert wines.

Chosen for their complex earthy bouquets, these Top 6 Romantic Wines are sure to put you and your partner in the mood for love.

thb 24 | FEBRUARY 2016

1. RidgeView Estate 2011 “Impressions” Shiraz This wine displays a bright red colour with a vibrant purple hue and aromas of raspberry and cherry. The generous palate is long and complex, beautifully balanced between layers of ripe red berry fruits and a refined tannin structure combined with subtle French oak characters.

Wonderful when paired with any red meat dish. This wine definitely leaves an impression and will have you singing ‘amore’.

2. Lambloch Estate 2013 "The Loch" Shiraz Designed with elegance and structure in mind, this wine displays attractive spice, black plum and blackberry aromas and flavours with a distinctive earthiness while retaining a soft mouthfeel with a long finish and aftertaste. This wine is well suited to excite the senses of that special someone.

3. Mistletoe Wines 2014 Grand Reserve Shiraz This wine has a fantastic mid-palate fruit and great length of palate that combines to give this wine near perfect balance. The palate is currently quite tight with generous tannin structure. Coupled with its sensual texture, the wine's evolution of flavour makes for romance in the bottle.

4. Adina Vineyard 2015 Pinot Gris This is a clean, elegant and sensual light strawberry coloured wine with apple and peach tones. Delicate, full fruit flavours throughout the palate with a crisp, clean finish. A good aperitif that compliments anti-pasta foods, seafood dishes, chicken dishes and all types of stir fry.

5. Briar Ridge 2014 Late Harvest Gewurztraminer A rich and opulent dessert wine that is pure seduction in a bottle.

Perfumed rose petal and ginger spice nuances linger on the nose, with the palate displaying Turkish delight and lychee notes. The palate is finely balanced, finishing with subtle bush honey notes.

6. Ascella Organic Wines Sparkling Pure Vescence This wonderful Sparkling Rosé has a tropical fruit nose with a zesty and refreshing palate. This wine captures all those notes said to replicate pheromonal aromas. But its sensuality does not stop there. Perfect for summer picnics, brunches, romantic dinners, hot tubs – or wherever your imagination takes you.

KOPiAsTe! COMe, eAT, enJOY! We use the freshest seasonal produce from our onsite kitchen garden to create our signature Cypriot Meze, a 4 course feast inspired from Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. Enjoy all day dining and slowly graze through the dishes whilst enjoying the picturesque vineyard views. If you have neither the time nor apetite, select tasty morsels of seasonal seafood, meat, and vegetarian dishes from our new Mezedhes menu.

RidgeVieW Wines ARe AVAilAble AT The CellAR dOOR PRiCe.

Wines RidgeView is a family owned, boutique producer of handcrafted trophy winning wines. Sample from Riedel glasses our flagship “Generations” Semillon and Shiraz as well as our ecclectic range of 100% Hunter Valley wines.

CellAR dOOR ResTAURAnT lUXURiOUs COTTAges VineYARd OliVe gROVe eVenTs

CELLAR DOOR OPEN 10AM-5PM WED-SUN RESTAURANT OPEN BREAKFAST FRI-SUN LUNCH & DINNER THUR-SUN Ph: (02) 65747332 273 sweetwater Road Pokolbin dine@ridgeview.com.au www.ridgeview.com.au AWARDED 5 stARs by ‘JAmEs HAlliDAy AustRAliAn WinE CompAnion’

25 | FEBRUARY 2016 thb

HUNTER DISTILLERY

After being purchased in late 2011 by business partners Peter Clarke, Joe Slupik and Peter McLean, Hunter Distillery began producing a small range of premium Valli label vodkas based on the products made by the former business owners, including traditional, lemon myrtle and vanilla varieties, before spicing up the line with their own limited edition and specialty flavours such as chilli, chocolate and coffee.

In response to their growing success, the business partners also decided to construct a state-of-the-art distillery on the Broke Road site, as well as a tasting centre where customers could come to sample their rapidly expanding range of products. 2013 was the first year in the new purpose built distillery on Broke Road, Pokolbin.

IN HIGH Spirits More commonly associated with the freezing climate of far-off Russia, a variety of flavoured vodkas along with a number of other speciality spirits are being distilled right here in the Hunter Valley much to the delight of visitors, and locals alike.

These lusciously delicious liqueurs are being produced by the awardwinning team at Hunter Distillery, located at 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin and are fast gaining attention from discerning drinkers both home and overseas.

from Adina Vineyard Whether it’s a cool Pinot Gris, a luscious chilled Verdelho, or a brilliant sparkling Chardonnay/Pinot Noir that takes your fancy, you will find the line-up of Adina’s white wines just perfect for summer enjoyment.

Taste and buy at our cellar door – we are open 7 days from 10am to 5pm. Enjoy!

You can also buy online for delivery to your home or office.

And come they did, with the tasting centre now full to bursting most weekends as people take part in the very unique and popular “test tube tasting” experience, which gives them a chance to sample from the distillery’s full range of vodkas, liqueurs, schnapps, gin and speciality spirits. ''Five years ago we saw a gap in the market and the opportunity for something very different in the Hunter Valley, and it appears we were right because the business has really taken off’’ said Peter Clarke. ‘’Hunter Distillery is now part of the overall Hunter Valley experience.

We cater to the same sort of people who come to the valley for wine but we’re offering them a product that perhaps they didn’t expect to find’’.

Of course, the fact Hunter Distillery is offering a product that has drawn praise from wine and spirit drinkers, corporate clients and competition connoisseurs alike, doesn’t hurt their chance of success either!

The Valli vodkas have previously won gold at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition and silver at the London International Wine and Spirit Competition and continue to pick up awards for their vodka, gin and liqueur products at the various national shows, including the Royal Melbourne Fine Food Awards.

With that sort of reputation, it’s no wonder Hunter Distillery is high on the list of the must-try experiences Wine Country has to offer.

The Hunter Valley is Australia's "Must Visit" Wine Region! With over 150 Cellar Doors, almost 70 restaurants and a plethora of events happening throughout the year, it's easy to see how it's earned the "Must Visit" tag.

Planning a trip to the Hunter Valley?

Don't leave home before visiting Hunter Valley Online!

You’ll find all the latest news, restaurant reviews, wine tasting notes and suggestions, interactive magazines, guides, brochures, newsletters, maps, books and tools to make the most of your time in Australia's Must Visit Wine Region!

VINEYARD

492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale PH 02 49 307 473 www.adinavineyard.com.au

thb 26 | FEBRUARY 2016

Photo courtesy of Mount View Tourism.

Hunter Distillery is the only certified organic distillery in the Hunter Valley wine region of New South Wales.

Locally owned and operated, we produce an exceptional range of top shelf spirits, including Vodkas, Liqueurs, Schnapps and our award winning COPPERWAVE GIN. Visit and sample our unique range of spirits, with a flavour for every taste.

An amazing experience not to be missed.

Open for tastings and sales 7 days, 10am - 5pm 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin 2320 • PH (02) 4998 6737 info@hunterdistillery.com.au • www.hunterdistillery.com.au

Organic Wines

GREAT TASTING • AWARD WINNING • CERTIFIED ORGANIC

ASCELLA IS THE LARGEST CERTIFIED ORGANIC VINEYARD IN THE HUNTER VALLEY AND FAMILY OWNED IN AUSTRALIA. THE COUNTRY CELLAR DOOR IS NESTLED IN THE PRISTINE THOMPSON’S VALLEY OF THE BROKE FORDWICH REGION OF THE HUNTER. ENJOY A UNIQUE WINE TASTING, BOOK IN FOR AN ORGANIC CHEESE & OLIVE TASTING OR JOIN US FOR A KICK BACK AND RELAX BBQ IN JACK’S ORCHARD WEEKENDS. PLEASE CALL 02 6574 5275 OR TEXT 0431357105 203 Thompsons Rd, Milbrodale, NSW 2330 www.ascellawine.com info@ascellawine.com

27 | FEBRUARY 2016 thb

THE Perfect PAIRING At first, wine and chocolate might sound like an unlikely marriage but it is actually quite a harmonious one – surprisingly complementing each other well. To help enlighten you on this perfect pairing, Tamburlaine Organic Wines is offering the ultimate ‘Organic Wine & Chocolate Tasting’ experience.

‘5 Red Stars For Excellence’

James Halliday’s Wine Companion

Designed to indulge the senses of lovers of wine and chocolate, the tasting experience will allow you to play matchmaker, as you learn how to partner wine varieties with their perfect chocolate companion (which is also certified organic and free from nasties, of course!).

Held at the Tamburlaine Organic Wines cellar door on McDonald’s Road, Pokolbin, this unique wine tasting experience aims to provide you with a greater knowledge and appreciation of organic wines and the food pairing opportunities.

358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin tamburlaine.com.au

The tasting experiences are only $49 per couple, which also includes a complimentary bottle of wine so you can continue the wine tasting at home!

Bookings are essential. Call 1800 659 956 to organize a time that suits you.

Massive Wine Sale at The Garden Cellars Come in and Pick & Mix 12 wines from $90.

Huge selection of wine to choose from.

THE GARDEN

CELLARS thb 28 | FEBRUARY 2016

“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.

Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village Broke Road, Pokolbin OPEN 7 DAYS 10am - 5.30pm | PH 4998 7466 www.gardencellars.com.au

Explore the Hunter To find out more about receiving quality guaranteed Hunter wines from over 60 producers delivered to your door, visit the Wine Selectors counter in the Visitor Information Centre

Enjoy award-winning wines with the best view in the Hunter Valley.

(Wine Country Drive) or call 4990 8206.

6 FREE

stal European cry glasses worth en wh $47.94 you join the Hunter Valley Release!

Hunt er Valley RELEASES

Cellar Door open 10am - 5pm De Beyers Rd, Pokolbin | audreywilkinson.com.au

Much more than a Vineyard.

Our Matilda range is made up of easy drinking styles that are produced for your enjoyment.

Cellar Door open daily 10am-5pm 576 De Beyers Rd, Pokolbin www. cockfightersghost.com.au

Come Waltzing with Matilda...

205 Gillards Road, Pokolbin • PH 4998 7887 www.constablevineyards.com.au

R EC REATI N G H I S T O RY Bringing the old vines back to their former glory...

310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin 2320 PH (02) 4998 7885 E cellar@wynwoodestate.com.au W www.wynwoodestate.com.au 29 | FEBRUARY 2016 thb

WINE VARIETY

ROSÉ...

A Wine For ROMANTICS Rosé has a reputation for being the perfect Summer wine.

Served chilled, it can be a refreshing accompaniment to a variety of warm weather meals and it tops the charts for food-friendly versatility.

Rosé wines can and are made from almost any red variety, red blends or red and white blends and can be made in a sweet, off-dry or bone dry style, with most European rosés being decidedly dry.

Almost all of the world's wine-producing regions make rosés. The first, and arguably, the most important rosé producer is France where it is predominantly found in the southern region of Tavel, Provence, and the Loire Valley in Anjou. Other important regions are Piedmont in Italy, Rioja in Spain, and Styria in Austria.

For a rosé, colour is key — it's a significant aspect of its appeal. It is impossible to define the "correct" colour of rosé wine, which can range from pale pink to light red. The vast range of colours depends on the grape used and richness of the grape's phenolic compounds and wine making techniques, which include the length of time the grape skins have Australia’s fresh and vibrant rosés are generally produced from red grape varieties such as Shiraz and Grenache, with only minimal contact on skins been in contact with the grape juice. to give the wines their signature ‘blush’.

The origins of rosé winemaking can be traced back to ancient Greece As a fantastic food wine, the versatility of rosé is its standout feature as when much of the red wine produced was pale red. By mid-100 B.C, it can be paired with a wide variety of foods and flavours and handles the Romans had popularized darker red wines in Europe, but rosé spices and heat very well. Rosé is great alongside salads, antipasto wine remained popular in parts of France - most notably, Provincia platters, fish dishes or even your favourite curry.

Romana, which is today's Provence region as well as the surrounding Mediterranean area.

Historically, rosé wine practically disappeared in the nineteenth century and in the first half of the twentieth century. Red wine was reserved for peasants and workers while rosé became the wine of choice for the middle class in the 1960s.

Today, there is a new surge in the popularity and the number of rosés on the market continues to grow, seemingly unabated. In fact, the demand for traditional dry rosé is so widespread that across France, rosé outsells white wine and outside of France, rosé is experiencing a rebirth.

FEB

RUA

RY

TOOPP S DR

A great beverage for a picnic, rosé wine can accompany everything from seafood, ham, chicken, salads to barbecued and roasted meats. Rosé usually has a delicate flavour and a balance of sweetness and acidity that make it a refreshing palatecleansing drink. Best served young and at a chilled temperature, rosé wine is a wonderful alternative to a red or white. When it comes to cheeses, soft goat cheese pairs best with rosé.

Tamburlaine Organic Wines 2015 Wine Lovers Petite Fleur Rosé Although not a large winery in world terms, Tamburlaine Organic Wines in Australia’s largest producer of organic wines – producing award winning wines from their Hunter Valley and Orange Vineyards that are true to the terroir of the region.

Tamburlaine is the pioneer of sustainable viticulture, with no synthetic chemical inputs used in the growing of the grapes which made this wine.

This Petite Fleur Rosé is European in style with soft pink hues with rose petal and musk aromas.

The wine has fresh juicy strawberry and Turkish delight flavours with subtle oak complexity. Not simply a light red pretending to be a Rosé.

CELLARING: Drink now or cellar for up to 5 years

thb 30 | FEBRUARY 2016

Introducing the Hunter Valley's

POKOLBIN ESTATE VI NEYARD

Tempranillo | Nebbiolo | Sangiovese Get your taste for adventure today at ...Pokolbin Estate.

POKOLBIN ESTATE VINEYARD 298 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin | Open 7 Days 9am -5pm PH 4998 7524 | www.pokolbinestate.com.au

Enjoy a relaxing meal with your family and friends at Harrigan’s and enjoy our live entertainment every weekend. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, vineyards and mountains, Harrigan’s is located right in the heart of the Hunter Valley. Open 7 days.

Contact us and book your table today!

BISTRO • LIVE ENTERTAINMENT • SPORTS BAR Ph: 02 4998 4300 - www.harrigans.com.au Broke Road Pokolbin

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Handmade in the Hunter Markets at Kevin Sobels Wines

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Australian Alpaca Barn

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HV Chocolate Co. Balloon Aloft Meeting Point

Peterson House

L

Audrey Wilkinson

Ekerts Road

BROKE ROAD

Pokolbin Village

Lambloch Estate

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O

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Gillards Road Constable Estate

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Broke Village Markets

ALE RD

Hunter Honey Hive The Cellar Restaurant The Garden Cellars

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Brickmans Lane

Adina Vineyard HV Reflections Day Spa

The Deck Café

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Sabor in the Hunter

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Wine Glass Gallery

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Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen

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Ascella Pure Wines

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Wilderness Road

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Thompsons’s Rd

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Australian Alpaca Barn

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Australian Alpaca Barn

Bimbadgen Winery

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19

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HV Horseriding and Adventures

18

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Matilda Bay Brewhouse

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Blaxlands Inn K12 Circa 1876 L12 Eighty Eight L12 Epicure Café L11 Harrigans Irish Pub L9

RESTAURANTS + CAFÉS

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Harvest Restaurant (Hope Estate) K12 Matilda Bay Brewhouse F5 Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen G14 Oishii Japanese Thai L11 PK’s at Pokolbin P16 Pop-up at Harkham Wines M12 The Brickworks Brasserie (Potters Hotel) N16 Restaurant Cuvee (Peterson House) K14 RidgeView Restaurant B7 Sabor in the Hunter K13/F15 The Cellar Restaurant K10 The Deck Café F18 The Verandah Restaurant I13 Twine Restaurant O11

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Australian Alpaca Barn K9/K10 Australian Alpaca Barn (Morpeth) B19 Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village K10

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Campbells Store (Morpeth) C18 The Hunter Providore (Adina Vineyard) H17 Pokolbin Estate M10 HV Cheese Factory L10 HV Chocolate Co. K10/K13/K14 Hunter Valley Liqueurs & Baerami Olives K10 Hunter Honey Hive K10

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adee n Rd

Adina Vineyard H17 Ascella Pure Wines I1 Audrey Wilkinson N7 Bimbadgen Winery G11 Briar Ridge R12 Capercaillie Wines L16 Cockfighters Ghost M9 Constable Estate J9 Hermitage Road Cellars F5 Harkham Wines M12 Hope Estate K12 Hunter Distillery K6 Ivanhoe Wines P8

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Pokolbin Village K11 Wine Glass Gallery K10

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COMING UP

March

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11-13

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A DAY ON THE GREEN WITH HOODOO GURUS at Bimbadgen

BULGA BEATS FESTIVAL at Bulga Recreation Ground

ST PATRICKS DAY at Harrigans Irish Pub

KURRI KURRI NOSTALGIA FESTIVAL in Kurri Kurri

From the golden age of indie-rock comes three giants of the era, the Hoodoo Gurus, Sunnyboys and Violent Femmes, as they team up for the very first time in a threeway, no-holds barred attack on the aural senses.

Bulga Beats is a community organised music, market and arts festival. The main event will be held on the Saturday, where markets will run from 9am till late afternoon, and music will run from 11am till 11pm.

St Patricks Day at Harrigans Irish Pub will have patrons celebrating like true Irishmen and women with Guinness set to flow and a day full of entertainment and activities planned, ensuring a St. Paddy’s Day to remember.

Come and celebrate the swinging 1950’s and 1960’s at the annual Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival. The festival is now in its second decade and features all things 1950s - rock n roll, cars, music, fashion and dancing.

The genesis of all three bands, Hoodoo Gurus, Violent Femmes and Sunnyboys formed around the post-punk era of 1980/81, and all three would go on to play an important role in the increased popularity of indie rock.

The Festival focuses on attracting people to the district, providing entertainment for all ages and supporting sustainable industries and businesses. The first event, held early in 2015, attracted over 1,000 happy festival beaters, and eight bands that grooved the cold night air with music ranging from folk, blues and Psychedelic rock.

The Irish Pub will celebrate the life and work of St. Patrick in the traditional way with music, Irish dancing, Guinness and laughs to be shared by all that attend.

The three-day program of events includes the Show and Shine vintage car display, retro market stalls, talent quests, best dressed competitions, fashion parades, Rock n Roll dancing and plenty of live entertainment in the main street of Kurri and at the local clubs.

This all-star bill also features an equally as impressive undercard with fellow indie-giants Died Pretty dusting off the dancing shoes for the first time in more than seven years, while Ratcat, round out summer’s most fun bill.

For more information visit www.adayonthegreen.com.au

Be sure to bring your bidding hat and chequebook so you don't miss out on a chance to win a signed guitar by true greats of not just the music industry!

For more information visit the Bulga Beats Festival Facebook page.

06 BROKE VILLAGE MARKET McNamara Park, Broke

thb 34 | FEBRUARY 2016

Harrigans' traditional Australian Irish Bistro will be serving all of the old favourites including the famous Beef & Guinness pie and a few special Irish dishes.

12+13 MAITLAND TASTE: FOOD, WINE AND MUSIC FESTIVAL at The Levee, Central Maitland

Attracting over 15,000 visitors last year, the Maitland Taste: Food, Wine and Music Festival is sure to tickle the taste buds of visitors in 2016.

For more information on the day and what's on offer visit kurrikurrinostalgiafestival.com.au

For more information visit www.harrigans.com.au grown produce for inspiration in their own garden, see local chefs create tempting dishes to excite your appetite, and taste the unique flavours of the Hunter.

05+12 26+27 HANDMADE IN THE HUNTER MARKETS Kevin Sobels Wines

Guests are encouraged to dress up in the traditional green colour that marks the special day, with plenty of giveaways, and a guarantee that the ‘Craic will be mighty’.

At Maitland Taste, enjoy a host of entertainment and activities for all ages including cooking demonstrations with celebrated Hunter chefs, indulge in the sparkling and seafood lanes, plus cheese and beer tastings.

Local Hunter restaurants will offer up the best the region has to offer, along with market stalls full of gourmet goodies, fresh local produce, artisan cheeses, delectable desserts, and fresh roasted coffee.

The event for all ages will showcase the best the region has to offer and Entry is free, with some events gives visitors the opportunity to ticketed. For more information talk to the specialists in home visit www.maitlandtaste.com.au

27 TEDDY BEARS PICNIC ON EASTER SUNDAY at Hilltop, 288 Talga Road, Rothbury If you go out in the woods on Sunday 27th March, you're sure of a big surprise. As that’s the day the Teddy Bears have their picnic!

So bring your teddy bear, rug and picnic basket for the Teddy Bears Picnic at Hilltop, home of Hunter Valley Horse-riding.

Enjoy an alcohol free family fun day, with plenty of games, prizes, pony rides and Easter eggs on offer.

For more information call Margaret on 4930 7111 or visit huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au

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HunterValleyShopping.com.au

Shopping Village Shop AUSTRALIAN ALPACA BARN specialises in quality Australian Alpaca fashion, homewares and accessories. Alpaca coats, sweaters, shawls, scarves, gloves, socks, beanies, throw rugs, bedding, yarn and alpaca toys.

PEPPERS CREEK ANTIQUES An exquisite array of spectacular jewellery, stylish watches, amazing giftware and homewares. Gifts for all ages and occasions collected from all corners of the world.

CANDELABRA One of Australia's most famous boutique candle stores - the stunning fragrances, colour and endless variety of product is truly amazing.

HUNTER VALLEY CHRISTMAS SHOP Nestled in the heart of the Hunter Valley, is a magic land where it is Christmas every day of the year!

PULP ADDICTION Satisfy your paper cravings with our delightful range of designer stationery which is guaranteed to intrigue and delight.

THE TWIG A gorgeous selection of home furnishings and personal giftware unlike anything else on offer in the valley.

THE WAITERS FRIEND A great selection of quality kitchenware and barware and some of the best prices anywhere in Australia.

VILLAGE BOOKS A fantastic range of fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books and a unique collection of quality toys, games, souvenirs and gifts.

WILSON & HUNTER All the latest fashion from Camilla, Mela Purdie, Verge, Katherine, Samantha Wills, Metalicus, Bleu Blanc Rouge,Tilly Rose,Tolani and more…

WINE GLASS GALLERY An extraordinary gift gallery… colourful, handmade and crystal wine glasses, original artworks, homewares, new season scarves & handbags, jewellery, shot glasses, magnets, souvenirs & much more.

Dine AND THE WINNER IS OSCARS We are a family friendly café serving honest wholesome food and great coffee, in a casual relaxed environment. We are opened for breakfast, lunch and everything in between. Our menu is available dine in or take away and is sure to impress. Phone 4998 7355 LITTLE PANTRY CO Relax and enjoy breakfast, lunch or a sweet treat. We offer a full range of Coffee Beans/Pods and Speciality Teas. Hunter Valley Cookies, the delicious and famous Hunter Valley Gelato and many more local products also available. It’s our very own Little Pantry.

TASTE OF THE COUNTRY Experience a Taste of the Country in this award winning café and retail outlet. This popular café is like walking into an old fashioned, country kitchen. Phone 4998 6605.

THE CELLAR RESTAURANT Rustic Mediterranean cuisine in a relaxed, friendly environment. Open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday. Bookings recommended.

Phone 4998 7584.

Pamper ZEN HAIR SKIN BODY A full Hairdressing Salon and Beauty Spa in one location, innovative & deluxe treatments in an environmentally friendly setting, the salon can cater to any need. Phone 4998 6844.

Play AQUA GOLF & PUTT PUTT If you fancy a bit of action then visit our Aqua Golf and Putt Putt Golf Course - fun for the whole family! Win cash & prizes! Phone 4998 7896.

Savour HUNTER VALLEY CHOCOLATE COMPANY Established more than ten years ago the ORIGINAL Hunter Valley Chocolate Company & Fudge Factory is one of the premier attractions in the area.

HUNTER VALLEY COOKIES Handmade premium cookies in designer gourmet flavours plus gluten free cookies now available exclusively at The Little Pantry - Shop 2.

HUNTER VALLEY LIQUEURS & BAERAMI OLIVES Extra virgin olive oils, infused olive oils, vinegars and a large range of specialty liqueurs and an impressive array of bottles to customize your selection.

THE BRITISH LOLLY SHOP The largest range of imported English Confectionary. All your old favourites, humbugs, sherbet lemon, come in and sample our hospitality.

THE GARDEN CELLARS Mount Eyre/ Three Ponds Cellar Door. See the Tunnel Of Beer or taste 17 flavoured organic vodkas.

HUNTER HONEY HIVE Everything Honey and Bee related! Free tastings daily.

Essentials YE OLDE GENERAL STORE A modern convenience store with a twist of yesteryear.

Full of groceries and curiosity.

POKOLBIN VILLAGE PHARMACY Offering you friendly, professional service as well as a wide range of products: full PBS prescription service, medicines, vitamins, skin care, cosmetics, hair care, fragrances, sunglasses and much more. Phone 4998 6677.

Shopping Village

BROKE ROAD, POKOLBIN • OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 10AM