The Hunter Blackboard | June 2016

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

BLACKBOARD

JUNE 2016 | ISSUE #112

THE HUNTER BLACKBOARD IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH...

FOR YOUR DIARY

June

EACH FRIDAY IN JUNE | FIRESIDE WINEMAKER DINNERS | Hunter Resort | As part of the Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival, Hunter Resort

will feature a different Hunter Valley Winemaker each Friday evening in a series of "By the Fireside" Dinners. With a maximum of 30 guests each evening, this is indeed an intimate experience where you will discuss latest releases and talk all things wine with the likes of renown winemakers such as Bruce Tyrrell and Lisa McGuigan. Each of the 4-course dinners will be perfectly matched by the Winemaker's best. Cost is $120 per person, for more information or to book phone 4998 7777 or visit www.hunterresort.com.au/fireside

SATURDAY 4TH JUNE | HUNTER VALLEY WINE FESTIVAL | Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley | An extensive array of wine, food, beer and cider will be

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on offer yet again as the Hunter Valley Wine Festival enters its fourth year. As always in the Hunter you will be spoilt for choice as the best of the Valley come together along with family friendly activities, light entertainment and various taste sensations catering for everyone. Pre-purchased tickets are $20 (including 5 tasting tokens and tasting glass) and $25 on the day. Those under 18 are free with an accompanying adult. Extra tokens are $1 each, available on the day. For more information visit www.huntervalleywinefestival.com

5TH, 19TH AND 26TH JUNE | PAELLA COOKING CLASSES | at The Verandah Restaurant | Learn how to cook a Spanish Paella, tasty Spanish

churros and of course Sangria at the renowned Verandah Restaurant with owner and celebrated chef Matt Dillow. These annual classes aren’t just educational, but fun too! The cost is $90 per person with bookings essential, phone 4998 7231 or email bookings@verandahrestaurant.com.au. For more information visit www.verandahrestaurant.com.au

25TH JUNE TO 17TH JULY | SNOWTIME IN THE GARDENS | Hunter Valley Gardens | Snow Time in the Gardens is a great opportunity for families and friends to get together and experience an icy wonderland over three huge weeks, including the winter school holidays! Chill out on the giant ice skating rink, the 25m ice toboggan and build a snowman in the man-made Snow Play Zone! With games, entertainment, warm beverages and hearty food, there is so much fun to be had for all ages. This is a day and night event running from 10am – 9pm every day. www.hvg.com.au

SATURDAY 25TH JUNE | CHEESE LOVER'S FESTIVAL | The Sebel Kirkton Park | Cheeselovers unite! The Sebel will be showcasing the best cheese,

wine, craft beer and compliments in the Hunter Valley, with tasting and pairing for all to enjoy. The main stage will host fun competitions, entertaining workshops plus live entertainment including soulful blues, folk and rock. Join fellow cheeselovers to celebrate the diversity and taste of all things cheese in this ultimate one-day festival, and join the conversation with the hashtag #CheeseLoveFest. Kids under 12 are free, adults $20. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.cheeseloversfestival.com.au

SATURDAY 25TH JUNE | THE BEST OF THE EAGLES | Cessnock Performing Arts Centre | The Best of the Eagles is a concert production,

delivering a captivating show from start to finish that will showcase the synonymous sound Eagles fans have come to expect - timeless songs that are all part of the 20th Century musical landscape. Celebrating 40 years since the release of the iconic album ‘Hotel California’, part one will see the classic album performed in its entirety. The second part of the show will conjure up the Eagles’ rock classics including ‘Take it Easy’, ‘Take It to the Limit’, ‘Heartache Tonight’, and so many more. Tickets are $60 and are available from www.cessnockperformingartscentre.com.au WANT MORE? Keep up to date with events in the Hunter by visiting www.huntervalleyonline.com.au

FROM THE EDITORS If ever there was the perfect destination for wine, food and travel then the Hunter Valley is it. Not only is the Hunter Valley Australia’s oldest and most iconic wine region, but its accessibility from two of our major cities also ensures that a great day out is only a short drive from your doorstep.

Add to that the most recent count of wineries and restaurants in the area (there are over 150 wineries and 60 plus restaurants and growing) and the term “spoilt for choice” seems synonymous with the region. Historically, June is the month to celebrate Food & Wine in the Hunter Valley, and 2016 is no exception.

There’s a vast array of activities and events to be enjoyed throughout the Hunter Valley and throughout the month of June. This month’s food & wine issue features many of these activities.

Learn to appreciate olives, enjoy a wine matched degustation, dine by the fireside, match wine with cheese (expertly!), knock up a paella, trust a chef, appreciate art, get a grape education, shop at locally hand-made markets, devour a metre long pizza or taste all that the Hunter can offer all in one place – that’s June in a nutshell!

Of course, you’ll find plenty more details inside… so read on and plan your delectable month of fun.

Winter has arrived, and Hunter Valley Gardens is fully into the winter spirit with the launch of “Snow Time in the Garden” on June 25th. Who needs to head south to enjoy a spot of tobogganing or outdoor ice-skating when you can enjoy it all right here! Get the kids off the couch and head out for some family fun.

As Australia’s oldest wine region it’s no surprise that the area is known for classic varieties such as Semillon (best in the world), Chardonnay, Merlot and of course Shiraz (also best in the world). As we go to press McLeish Estate has just had their 2007 Cellar Reserve Semillon named the Best Semillon in the World at the London International Wine Show – so we’re not stretching the truth one bit!

In this issue, we look in depth at the origins of each classic wine and offer up the best of the best for your tasting delight! All in all – a very palatable wine and food issue.

Enjoy!

Dine at the divine Circa 1876 until the 30th of June 2016 with our decadent 5 Course Tasting Menu for $120 per person (food only). Mention this ad to book in your complimentary kitchen garden tour!

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Contents 8

FOOD & WINE EXTRAVAGANZA

This month sees the annual celebration of food & wine continue throughout the Hunter Valley. There is a plethora of fun events to enjoy so we have picked out the top things to do in June!

A TASTE OF THE HUNTER

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From set price lunches matched with award winning wines to taste experiences and indulgent afternoon teas, June is the best time to experience what the Hunter Valley has to offer!

AUSSIE FOOD REVOLUTION

17

HUNTER VALLEY CLASSICS

22

GROWING GRAPES SUSTAINABLY

29

HUNTER BLACKBOARD MAP

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Our own bees supply bush honey, free range chickens offer up our eggs each day, and a lush, bountiful kitchen garden is lovingly tended to by Chefs with a passion for presenting you produce that comes light on carbon footprint and high on flavour.

Sink into the rich soil of Circa 1876 and transport yourself to a truly exceptional dining experience.

Bookings are essential: info@circa1876.com or PH (02) 4998 4998

From cook to executive chef, bush tucker to dukkah, we take a look at Australia’s evolution into a modern multicultural nation of food lovers!

Take a closer look at 4 of the Hunter Valleys classic wine varieties – Chardonnay, Semillon, Shiraz and Merlot – including our top picks!

Increased awareness of our natural environment have seen a strong shift in winemaking recently, resulting in an increase in organic and biodynamic winemaking

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

64 Halls Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 www.theconventhuntervalley.com 3 | JUNE 2016 thb

WHAT’S HOT IN THE HUNTER TRIFECTA TROPHY WIN McLeish Estate Wines has continued to excel on the world stage, being awarded an unprecedented three trophies at the 2016 London International Wine Challenge with the 2007 Cellar Reserve Semillon winning trophies for best NSW Semillon, best Australian Semillon and best international Semillon.

The International Wine Challenge (IWC) is considered one of the world’s most highlyregarded wine shows with more than 13,000 wines from 50 countries entered into the competition each year.

No stranger to awards, the McLeish Estate 2007 Cellar Reserve Semillon won trophies for best International Semillon at the IWC in 2012 and 2013, was NSW Wine of the Year in 2014 and won Best Semillon in the 2013 and 2014 Sydney International Wine Competition. McLeish Estate is now competing for the Best International White Wine Award, with the overall champion trophy winners to be announced at the IWC Awards Dinner in London on July 7th.

WHERE McLeish Estate, 462 De Beyers Rd, Pokolbin. Open 7 days, 10am – 5pm.

Phone 4998 7754. www.mcleishhunterwines.com.au

MUCH MORE than a Vineyard...

If you've ever wandered down Gillards Road in Pokolbin, you'd notice the amazing views that surround it. Constable Estate is in prime position to take in this view, complete with sculpture art, beautiful gardens, amazing wine and the picturesque Len Evans Memorial Lookout.

GAME ON! Feeling Playful?

Various locations on the Around Hermitage Wine and Food Trail are offering wine tasting and games for all! Taste and Play will be running all through June, and with so many places to visit, we are sure you can easily make a day of it!

Participating venues include Misty Glen Wines (croquet and boules), RidgeView (giant chess and totem tennis), Wombat Crossing (croquet and boules), Tintilla Estate (horseshoes and coits), James Estate (giant jenga and boules), Glandore Estate (giant chess), Hunter Valley Resort (lots of fun activities), De Iuliis (connect 4 and croquet), Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen (lots of fun games), Sutton Estate (electric bikes – ride, taste, play) and Piggs Peake (giant pick up sticks).

WHERE Around Hermitage Wine and Food Trail, Pokolbin. Visit www.aroundhermitage.com.au for winery information and opening times.

If Pokolbin is your trail of choice, do yourself a favour and make a visit to Constable Estate to sample their finest, including their much loved Matilda range (you'll meet Matilda in the cellar door!)

HOW TO BOOK For any questions or to book a group tasting, phone 4998 7887. www.constablevineyards.com.au

PACKING SOME WARMTH With the seasonal change in full swing, your wardrobe may need an update for those cooler days and evenings. Australian Alpaca Barn stocks great quality, warm and amazingly soft clothing, ponchos, bedding, throw rugs, slippers, toys and yarn - all Australian made and unique.

Alpaca wool has many qualities that make it different from other wool types. Firstly, it is ten times warmer than regular sheep wool, and secondly it is hypoallergenic - perfect for those allergic to lanolin!

It is also very colourfast and less likely to fade, as well as being unlike any other fibre you've come across the softness is something you will treasure for years to come!

WHERE There are three locations in the Hunter; Peppers Creek on Broke Road, HVG Shopping Village and Swan Street Morpeth. Open 7 days, 10pm - 5pm. www.australianalpaca.com

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Nutty Goodness!

Hunter Distillery have just released their newest product, Hazelnut Liqueur. The first production run has been released in an exclusive limited edition bottle.

With the beautifully natural taste of hazelnut, this liqueur is fantastic neat on ice, a perfect addition to cocktails, and the ideal companion for their Chocolate Vodka! Yum! WHERE Hunter Distillery, 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 6737, open 7 days 10am to 5pm. www.hunterdistillery.com.au

EDITORS PICK JUNE

3 H UG E WEEKS

WINTER HOLIDAY FUN ICE SKATING, SNOW PLAY, TOBOGGANING AND MORE! OPEN: 10AM - 9PM 25 JUNE - 17 JULY 2016

For details and online tickets visit - www.hvg.com.au Broke Road Pokolbin - Ph: 02 4998 4000

#HunterValleyGardens #SnowTime

Full gardens open 9am - 5pm. Limited access from 5pm – 9pm. This event will not open in adverse weather conditions. Admission charges apply. Program subject to change.

Try the Super Slide!

Go Ice Skating - 10am – 9pm daily.

The Ice Rink is over 20% bigger this year, giving skaters lots of room to glide around to disco lights and music! Skating sessions will run for 20 minutes and can fit up to 240 skaters at any time. So collect your session ticket, grab your provided skating equipment and get moving!

Silent Disco on Ice – 5pm – 9pm Friday & Saturday Every Friday and Saturday during Snow Time we are taking ice skating to the next level! Pick up your headset, choose your tunes and get moving.

Ice Sculptures – 11am & 2pm every Saturday & Sunday Come along and see Kenji Ogawa, a master in action as he creates large scale sculptures carved out of snow and ice.

There's no time like Snow Time!

On Saturday June 25th, Hunter Valley Gardens will transform into a Winter Wonderland as ‘Snow Time in the Garden’ kicks off. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever before with a brand new event area, great new features and best of all, open daily from 10am to 9pm for 3 huge weeks from June 25th to July 17th.

Children and adults alike can enjoy all things Winter at Snow Time in the Garden, without having to travel to the snow! Whether you want to give ice skating a try, go tobogganing or watch an amazing ice sculpture be carved from scratch, it is the perfect school holiday fun!

Snow Time Play Zone – Now double the size! 10am – 9pm daily.

Touch snow for the first time in the man-made snow play area. Build a snowman, make a snow angel and get creative. This year there are 2 large dedicated areas ready for some fun!

Real Ice Toboggan – 10am – 9pm daily Have you got a need for speed? Try out the super-fast, extra-long Ice Toboggan track as many times as you like. Now almost double the length at 40 metres, this will be sure to get your adrenaline pumping!

Super Slide – 10am – 9pm daily Do not miss out on Hunter Valley Garden’s new Super Slide! This thrilling ride is a massive 35 metres long and 12 metres high. Grab a giant slide mat and give it a try!

The family fun doesn’t end there! Other activities through the event include the Snowball Challenge, Giant Snow Globe, Snow Dogs, Arcade Alley, Face Painting, Inflatables and more! And for those wanting a bite to eat, there will be a range of food and beverages available throughout the event area.

With loads on offer, it’s time to brave the cold and make sure you don’t miss out on the winter fun! For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.huntervalleygardens.com.au

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Ocean to Paddock – Winemaker's Dinner On Saturday June 18th, RidgeView will bring you their annual Ocean to Paddock Winemaker’s Dinner. Executive Chef Donna Hollis, Sous Chef Kelly Scott and their team will present a seven course degustation utilising the on-site garden and the freshest local produce available to take you on a gastronomic journey up the Valley from the Ocean to the Paddock.

You will be welcomed with canapes and bubbles, then your taste buds travel to the ocean with crispy skin barramundi, Chef’s secretly spiced squid and Nelson Bay prawns before proceeding to the paddock with Nulkaba duck breast, roasted pork loin and Nolan Private Select beef fillet. The menu will culminate in Bren’s honey and date pudding with butterscotch sauce, vanilla bean ice cream and pistachio praline.

Owner and winemaker, Darren Scott, has personally matched his award winning, single estate wines to the set menu to complete the ocean to paddock gastronomical journey.

The Ocean to Paddock Winemaker’s Dinner will be held at RidgeView Restaurant on June 18 at 6.30pm. Cost is $125 per person (including paired wines). Bookings are essential on 6574 7332 or email dine@ridgeview.com.au

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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!

Hunter Valley

Reflections Day Spa DELUXE TASTING PACKAGE

30min Massage + 30min Facial + 30min Pedicure

$149 (normally $207)

• Massage •Facials •Body Treatments •Pedicures/ Manicures • Hens Parties • Spa Packages at Adina Vineyard 492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

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

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.

HERMITAGE ROAD CELLARS 49 different wines from 12 small 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.

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.

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

WINE COUNTRY HORSERIDING Pokolbin’s only horseriding

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

d Roa rth

Old No

Free tastings daily of a huge range of local and not so local honeys

Deasys Road

HUNTER VALLEY RESORT

Singleton/ Branxton

Hunter Valley Gardens Village Pokolbin Entry through Ye Olde General Store… PH 4998 7191

Mistletoe Lane

H ermitage Road

All things bees and honey!

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

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

New England Highway

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TO DO

Food & Wine

EXTRAVAGANZA! top things to do in june Warm hospitality, a love of life, world class wines, fine food and delicious local produce – this is Hunter Valley wine country. With a tradition in viticulture stretching back more than 180 years and celebrated as Australia’s premier wine and food destination, the Hunter Valley attracts wine and food lovers from all over the world and treats them to a fascinating journey into the world of great wine and wonderful food.

June in the Hunter Valley is traditionally the month to celebrate all things to do with wine and food. It’s a food and wine extravaganza and an opportunity to try new release wines, new varieties, take part in a range of fun and interactive classes to fine-tune your culinary skills, or simply relax in front of an open fire with a glass of premium Hunter Valley wine and a cheese plate.

chance to hear the stories and sample the latest releases of some of the Hunter Valley’s leading winemakers. Be treated to an intimate 4 course dinner perfectly matched to the Winemaker's best. When Every Friday in June at 7pm. Cost $120pp. Where Hunter Valley Resort, Corner Hermitage Road, Pokolbin. Bookings are essential. Ph 4998 7777.

Cellar Door Seated Tasting and Cheese Plate For all lovers of wine and cheese, enjoy a seated wine tasting accompanied by a cheese plate in the Bimbadgen Cellar Door. When Sunday - Thursdays in June, from 10am-4pm, Friday and Saturday 10am 5pm. Where 790 McDonald's Road, Pokolbin. Cost $5pp. Bookings are required for weekends. Ph 4998 4650.

Here is our choice of great activities to take part in.

The Adina Olive Experience with Emerson’s Tasting Plate Love olives and olive oils? Learn all you ever wanted to know about olives at the Adina Olive Experience. Discover how olive oil is made and what "extra virgin" means. See how the extraction process works, taste different varieties and experience fresh olive oils. Conclude with a specially prepared olive entrée and glass of Adina wine. Bookings essential. When Every Saturday in June (except 4th), from 10.30am.

Cost $35 per person. Where Adina Vineyard - 492 Lovedale Road Lovedale. Ph 4930 7473.

Ocean to the Paddock Degustation Dinner at RidgeView Restaurant Executive Chef Donna Hollis and her team draw inspiration from the local culinary offerings to bring you a seven-course degustation dinner matched perfectly with estate-grown RidgeView wines. Meet the RidgeView crew and embark on a gastronomic journey up the Valley from the Ocean to the Paddock. When Saturday 18th June, from 6:30pm.

Cost $125 per person. Where Ridgeview Restaurant - 273 Sweetwater Road Pokolbin. Ph 6574 7332.

Fireside Winemakers Dinners at Hunter Resort Hunter Resort are featuring a different Hunter Valley Winemaker each Friday evening in June in a series of By the Fireside Dinners. This is your

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Try the Olive Experience at Adina

Chocolate and Sea Cooking Classes Learn how to cook a Confit Trout, Crispy Skin Salmon and Chocolate Fudge Cake at Twine Restaurant with owner Matt Dillow. Class includes lunch and wine. When Each Saturday in June, from 9.30am – 12.30pm.

Where Twine Restaurant, 310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin. Cost $95pp.

Bookings are essential. Ph 4998 7449.

Magnificent Magnum Dinner at HQ Restaurant & Cockfighters Ghost

From Pan to Paella - Paella Cooking Classes Take part in a hands-on fun and festive Spanish Paella cooking class and learn how to cook authentic Paella and Churros with Chef and owner Matt Dillow at the Verandah Restaurant. Cost $90 per person.

When Every Sunday throughout June, from 9:30am – 12.30pm. Where Verandah Restaurant - 151 Palmers Lane Pokolbin. Bookings required.

Ph 4998 7231.

Heroes of the Hunter Redsalt Restaurant brings you "Heroes of the Hunter" - a decadent five course degustation showcasing the finest local produce with each dish perfectly matched to award-winning wines from the region.When Daily in June, from 6pm to 9.30pm. Where Redsalt Restaurant, Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, 430 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale NSW. Cost $85pp Essential wine menu or $115pp for Premium wine menu. Bookings essential, diners must be seated by 7:30pm. Ph 4991 0944.

Magnificent Magnum Dinner Cockfighter's Ghost Wines and HQ Restaurant have teamed up to provide diners with an intimate 4 course dinner matched to rare, aged magnums from the cellar and hosted by the winemaker. The dinner menu will highlight some wonderful winter warming slow cooked dishes from Chef Brian Duncan. When Saturday 11th June at 7pm. Where Cockfighters Ghost, 576 De Beyers Road, Pokolbin. Cost $145 per person. Bookings essential and limited to 24 places – be quick! Ph 4993 3688.

Trust the Chef Enjoy five courses matched with wines while the chef cooks in front of you in your own private Wine Room! The sample menu includes Tempura battered zucchini flowers; Prawn and Mud Crab wontons; Iberico jamon with poached quail eggs; Lamb cooked two ways and soft centred chocolate souffle. Bookings essential. When Saturday 11th and 25th June from 7pm. Cost $120 per person. Where Twine Restaurant - Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin. Ph 4998 7449.

Handmade in the Hunter Markets Discover the variety and quality of goods grown, made and crafted by Hunter Valley artisans. As a meet-the-maker market, you will meet and talk with the grower, maker or artist behind each of the expertly-crafted and truly unique "Handmade in the Hunter" creations. When Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th June, Saturday 25th June, from 9am – 3pm. Where Kevin Sobels Wines, corner of Broke and Halls Roads.

Hunter Valley Wine Festival The fourth Hunter Valley Wine Festival will take place within the grounds of the picturesque Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley. With an extensive array of wine, food, beer and cider on offer, festival goers will be spoilt for choice as is always the case with a true Hunter Valley Experience. When Saturday 4th June from 11am – 5pm. Where Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, 430 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale. Cost $20 pre-Sale OR $25 at the door per person, children under 18 years old are free of charge.

Lovedale Arts Festival The Lovedale Arts Festival will run through the entire month of June with wineries, restaurants and other locations throughout Lovedale showcasing a diverse range of events and exhibitions that involve music, new release wines, cooking classes, art and sculpture, pasta making and artisan chair making demonstrations. Where Various cellar doors, restaurants, accommodation. For locations please visit website. www.lovedalehuntervalley.com.au Cheese Lovers Festival Cheese lovers unite! The Sebel Kirkton Park will be showcasing the best cheese, wine, craft beer and compliments stalls with tasting opportunities and cheese pairing for all to enjoy. When Saturday 25th June, from 10am – 4pm. Where The Sebel, Kirkton Park, 336 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin. Ph 4998 7680.

Paella Cooking CLasses with Chef Matt Dillow

Check out all the Hunter Valley WIne Festival has to offer!

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FOOD

A Taste of THE HUNTER Those of us who appreciate good food produced from the best local produce will be spoilt for choice during June, as some of the Hunter Valley’s best restaurants give you the opportunity to dine with them from just $35! From set price lunches matched with award winning wines to taste experiences and indulgent afternoon teas, there has been no better time to experience what the culinary landscape of Wine Country has to offer!

ESCA BIMBADGEN Enjoy a ‘taste’ of Bimbadgen with their ‘Beef-olution’ experience - four sample size dishes which showcase a progression of beef with matching award winning Bimbadgen wines. Your ‘Edible Experience’ of the region incorporates ingredients sourced from the estate garden or from local producers located in the Hunter. Bookings are essential.

COST $90 per person WHEN Lunch daily from 12pm and Dinner on Friday & Saturday from 6pm during June WHERE Esca Bimbadgen, 790 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 4666

THE DECK CAFÉ Chef Tony Budden is dishing up Salmon gravlax with kipler potato and fennel salad, served with Gartelmann’s Benjamin Semillon tasting pour followed by slow braised beef bolar blade with creamy garlic mash and caramelized onion, served with Gartelmann’s Wilhelm Shiraz. Bookings are recommended.

COST $39 per person WHEN Daily during June from 12pm – 3pm WHERE The Deck Café, 701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale PH 4930 9007

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Pictured: Cypriot Lamb from RidgeView

NANNA KERR’S KITCHEN Nanna Kerr’s wouldn’t be right without a super indulgent afternoon tea.

Enjoy a selection of organic teas (or coffee), a glass of Bonics Sparkling Blanc de Blanc and a supremely delicious selection of sweet and savoury treats. Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen welcome vegans, vegetarians, coeliac sufferers and those interested in sugar-free and dairy-free diets to join in the high tea tradition as well. Bookings are essential.

COST $35 per person WHEN Every Thursday to Monday in June from 12pm – 4pm WHERE Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen, 16 Pokolbin Mountains Road, Pokolbin PH 0427 679 887

THE VERANDAH RESTAURANT Join Chef Bryan Anton for a Trio of Tapas dishes with tasting pours: four cheese arancini, rocket pesto and confit balsamic vine ripened tomato with Calais Estate Verdelho tasting pour, Sicilian swordfish with green olives, oven dried tomato and witlof with Calais Estate Semillon and pork loin, Calais Estate port macerated Turkish figs, parsnip puree and rosemary jus with Calais Estate Shiraz. Bookings are essential.

COST $39 per person WHEN Every Thursday – Sunday in June from 12pm – 3pm WHERE The Verandah Restaurant, 151 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998 7231

THE CELLAR RESTAURANT Chef Andrew Wright is preparing prawn and chestnut tortellini’s with beurre blanc and crispy sage, accompanied by a glass of Brokenwood Semillon.

COST $39 per person WHEN Lunch Monday - Saturday in June WHERE The Cellar Restaurant, Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7584

RIDGEVIEW RESTAURANT Chef Donna Hollis is preparing Cypriot spiced lamb souvla and chicken souvlaki, cinnamon sweet potato, Greek salad, tzatziki, tomato carraway reduction and caramelised lemon accompanied by a glass of RidgeView 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon or 2011 Shiraz and finished with a delicious dessert. Bookings essential.

COST $39 per person WHEN Lunch Thursday – Sunday in June from 12pm – 5.30pm WHERE RidgeView Restaurant, 273 Sweetwater Road, Pokolbin PH 6574 7332

relax, unwind

& rejuvenate at Golden

Door

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.

Choose from our extensive range of transformative spa treatments including; luxurious body treatments, facials, relaxing hand and foot care, remedial and healing massages, our signature Watsu treatment and acupuncture.

Spend an hour, half a day or a full day at our world-class spa combining spa treatments, use of the steam room and spa bath or simply take some well-deserved time out with a book or magazine in our spacious relaxation lounge.

TO BOOK CALL 02 4993 8500 EMAIL SPA@ELYSIA.COM.AU OR VISIT GOLDENDOOR.COM.AU Golden Door Health Retreat & Spa, Hunter Valley 165 Thompsons Road, Pokolbin NSW

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

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

Hunter Valley

Horse Ridingures & Advent

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

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 Childrens Sulky Rides • Tractor Hay Rides to Feed the Animals!

Enjoy a BBQ and sit around the wood fire after your horse ride!

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..

11 | JUNE 2016 thb

CAMPBELLS STORE Morpeth Free Ginger Beer, Fudge & Honey Tasting awaits you at Campbell’s Store, Morpeth.

Campbell’s Store is the Hunter Valley’s ultimate unique shopping destination and foodies paradise. A leisurely 45 minute drive from Hunter Wine Country, the 180 year old Campbell’s Store houses 13 speciality shops, investment Australian Art Gallery, Antique Centre & Tearoom, all under one roof.

OPEN Thursday – Sunday & most Public Holidays 10am – 5pm.

(Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day & Boxing Day)

Mention this ad to receive Free: A Morpeth VIP card & offer of the month.

175 Swan Street, Morpeth, NSW 2321 PH 02 4933 1407 • www.campbellsstoremorpeth.com

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

The Hunters Premier Wine Destination Cracking wines, thirst quenching craft beers and delicious food all to be enjoyed in our beer garden with spectacular views.

Sample our famous "The Cracker" Cabernet Merlot in the cellar door or grab a beer tasting paddle in the brewhouse to try a selection of our 11 beers and cider.

Friday & Saturday nights come hang out for "Twilight Tastings" until 8pm through out March with pizza's available and a schooner of the day offer!

Planning a wedding or event? Come visit our estate to inspect the "Great Cask Hall", winery or many acres of lush green scenery available for your special occasion.

Visit hopeestate.com.au to find out what's on.

Wine and Beer Tasting Open 7 Days 9am-5pm - 2213 Broke Road Pokolbin, NSW 2320 - (02) 4993 3555

thb 12 | JUNE 2016

Get a Grape Education... at Hunter Wine Theatre Ever wondered how the grapes in the vineyard end up in your glass?

Ask any winemaker and they will tell you that wine making is not only an art but also a science.

While the actual process of wine making is natural and requires little human intervention, each winemaker guides the process through different techniques and by adding variations and deviations along the way to make their wine unique.

The winemaking process occurs over 12 months, so experiencing the entire process firsthand can be difficult and time consuming. Luckily, you can now experience a whole year of winemaking condensed into a short 15-minute visual presentation at the new Hunter Wine Theatre.

The presentation gives the audience an insight into the Hunter’s wine heritage, grapevine maintenance and the steps in the winemaking process. At the conclusion of the presentation you will be invited to a 15-minute wine tutorial with the Cellarmaster.

Unlike a wine tasting, where you taste various wines and hopefully like them, a wine tutorial is where you are taken on a learning experience with a bracket of 4 Hunter Valley wines. Here you are taught how to taste front palate sweetness, acidity, and back palate tannins, and most importantly exercising your nose to appreciate the bouquet of wine.

The 30-minute wine education experience is just $30 per person, with sessions running at 11am and 2pm daily.

Once you have been educated in the winemaking process, the Hunter Wine Theatre also offer a more hands-on education with their Hunter Valley Grape Stomping and Barrel Rolling Experience.

There is nothing like the feeling of grapes between bare toes as guests jump in the oak barrel to experience the age-old tradition of pressing by foot or “grape stomping�.

There is also the opportunity to get a group of friends or colleagues together for the ultimate fun experience of Barrel Rolling!

Costs for the Grape Stomping and Barrel Rolling experiences are subject to grape availability and minimum numbers do apply so advance booking is essential.

For more information, visit www.hunterresort.com.au

1 Metre Pizza at Bodega Cypress Lakes Resort Bodega's famous 1 Metre Pizza is a must when in the Hunter Valley.

If pizza is not your thing however our Ribs and Shanks are fall off the bone delicious.

$55 SAVE $10

Our country setting overlooking the lake and golf course offers the perfect view.

Call 4993 1555 to book.

Valid for 1 meter pizza at Bodega Restaurant at Cypress Lakes Resort by Oaks. Only one per bill, please present ad to claim offer. Valid 1 - 31 Aug 16. Subject to change without notice. CYP1841.

*

CYP1841 Hunter Valley Blackboard Ad 190wx135mm.indd 1

13 | 20/05/16 JUNE 2016 10:04 AMthb

FOOD

Pokolbin is the central part of The Hunter Valley Wine Region

Loving Pokolbin WORDS QUENTIN VON ESSEN If you love wine and food, you’ve come to the right place. It’s Australia’s oldest and premier wine region, where the pleasures of eating and drinking are celebrated daily. This exquisite area has been built on 185 years of passion and dedication to the craft, resulting in the production of many world-class wines.

The rural locality of Pokolbin sits in the shadow of the Brokenback Range and is considered to be the "hub" of the Hunter Valley wine region and where the largest collection of wineries, accommodation houses, restaurants, gourmet food providers, shops and some of the best known names in Australian wine can be found.

The roots of old vines run deep in this part of the country with wine making in the Hunter Valley dating back to the 1830’s, so this is where you get to sample vintages from old vines and new varietals at some of the oldest and most historic vineyards in the country.

Pokolbin is internationally recognised as being Australia's oldest commercial wine producing area and it's where viticulture in the Hunter Valley is believed to have first started when James Busby brought planted cuttings of European vines and established what is considered the first vineyard in the area in the 1830's. Some of the most well respected names in Hunter Valley wine history today shortly followed, establishing vineyards in the area in the 1850's - some of these longestablished names are still in existence today It was not really until the 1960’s that the wine industry of the Lower Hunter Valley really took off when the closure of local mining operations and the arrival of European immigrants after the Second World War led to a reorientation of Australian tastes. By the 1980’s, the wine industry had replaced the mining industry as the centerpiece of the local economy.

Proof that wine, food and music make a melodious match, Pokolbin, with its 3 concert venues – Hope Estate, Roche Estate and Bimbadgen, has become known as the ultimate outdoor concert destination attracting thousands of music lovers and world famous bands and musicians from all over the world.

For those who like to take time out for themselves, there is always the Golden Door Elysia Health Retreat and Spa with their extensive spa menu and specialty services.

For the ultimate shopping experience that is chock- full with discovery, take a trip to Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village located on-route and a short walk from the world famous gardens themselves. Here you will find a variety (23 in all) of galleries, fashion stores, home-ware, gift shops and other boutique speciality shops to choose from as well as the other attractions that include the beautiful Chapel, mini golf and an aqua golf driving range. And just when you need a break there is a wide choice of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a much needed coffee, tea or a delicious meal.

Craft beer is another top drop that the Hunter is fast becoming famous for. With Hunter Beer Co, Hope Brewhouse, Matilda Bay Brewhouse and the Lovedale Brewery all becoming part of the wine and beer tour scenario and competing to quench the thirsts of visitors to the region.

Between the vines, wines, beer, people, views and food, it’s easy to see why the region was voted in the top 10 places to visit in TripAdvisor's best of 2014 and 2015 Australian travel destinations and the 12th best tourist destination in the South Pacific region.

TOP SPOTS

With well over 70 cellar doors and an almost equal amount of restaurants and cafes in Pokolbin, when it comes to wine and food you are spoilt for choice. For the ultimate cheese tasting experience you cannot go past the Hunter Valley Cheese Factory with its extensive range of delicious hand-made cheeses.

Pokolbin is also home to the renowned Hunter Valley Chocolate Company where it has 3 outlets and also the popular Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar. For something quite different, make sure you visit the Hunter Distillery – the only locally owned and operated distillery in the Hunter Valley, where you can taste an exceptional range of top shelf spirits that include gin, vodka, liqueurs and schnapps. If you want some time away from wine tasting then spend some time at Hunter Valley Gardens with its 10 stunning, differently themed garden areas, spanning 60 acres - a modern day Eden.

thb 14 | JUNE 2016

Left: Picnic spots aplenty at Hunter Valley Gardens Right: The Hunter's Best cheeses are available at Hunter Valley Cheese Factory on McDonalds Road.

June Long Weekend SABOR POKOLBIN

Open All Long Weekend!

SABOR LOVEDALE

Open Saturday & Sunday

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. 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.

Sabor in the Hunter is a culinary experience you will not soon forget!

A wide range of other gourmet products to take home include Persian fairy floss, Sabor Portuguese chocolate mousse, Hunter Valley cookies, Tasmanian gingerbread with a difference, various Callebaut chocolate products, gourmet ice-cream tubs, drinking chocolates and many, many more sweet treats.

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

Open Thursday 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

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.

HALF A KILO OF DELICIOUS, SAUCY LAMB RIBS & A SERVE OF WINGS WITH YOUR CHOICE OF FLAVOURS

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

Hunter Valley Chocolate Co. Pure Indulgence

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

www.huntervalleycheese.com.au

We invite you to indulge in our fine range of unique hand-made chocolate products, our huge variety of freshly made fudge or relax at our factory and retail centre at 2320 Broke Road Pokolbin.

BOUTIQUE FACTORY & SHOWROOM 2320 Broke Rd, Pokolbin Ph 4998-6999 Also at Peterson Champagne House Ph 4998-7301 and Shop 5 Hunter Valley Gardens Village Ph 4998-7221

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

thb 16 | JUNE 2016

The Evolution of Australian Food {Over 200 Years} The evolution of modern Australian food reflects the country's colonial past and the extensive migration to the country since the Second World War.

Australia's Multicultural Food Revolution

The start of the cultural food revolution in Australia coincided with the gold rush of the 1800’s, when Asian food was first introduced to Australia Prior to European colonisation in the 18th century, Aboriginal Australians by Chinese prospectors yearning for the tastes of home. When the rush dwindled, many Chinese immigrants remained in Australia and turned to survived for thousands of years on a hunter-gatherer diet. They were experts at finding food and water in the harsh Australian landscape. This market gardening and cooking for a living. "bush tucker" diet often included emu, kangaroo, moths, lizards and At the time of Federation in 1901, a change in eating and cooking styles snakes as well as berries, roots and honey. Seafood was also considered reflected new values. Outdoor picnics were enthusiastically adopted, a staple of the Aboriginal diet. establishing the tradition of the barbecue. There were new staple foods for main meals - mutton, meat pies, colonial curries and lamb chops.

When the First Fleet arrived in Sydney in 1788, it came with the basic supplies of flour, sugar, tea, butter, rice, pork and beef with the expectation that they would be able to grow and farm other food types to supplement their supplies. Instead, they found that the soil around Sydney Harbour and immediate surrounds was so poor that they were forced to head west to establish farms along Parramatta River.

However, the real cultural food revolution came after World War II, with massive European immigration in the 1950s and '60s. As the Mediterranean immigrants poured in, so too did spaghetti and baba ganoush and the introduction of new ingredients, flavours and foods such as zucchinis, capsicums, eggplants, globe artichokes and the previously maligned garlic. Today, European foods and cooking styles Early settlers were also forced to trade with the local Aboriginals for are a part of our everyday diet – from pizza, to pasta dishes, antipasti, bush tucker – something the European palate found difficult to adjust types of cheeses, dips, sauces and breads all of which are now readily and adapt to. The only real exception was fish and this was readily available. The vast list of plant species was ignored, with the exception of available at all supermarkets. The migration of many Europeans also led to espresso coffee becoming a more popular drink than tea. the macadamia and novelty use of fruit such as quandong.

Instead, the settlers took a more industrial approach and put their efforts into developing agriculture to provide a more familiar European diet. Sheep and cattle were introduced and familiar crops were planted.

Flour was a staple of the settler's diet and was used to make bread or damper – a dense thick bread. Pumpkin seeds that arrived with the First Fleet were intended to feed pigs, but instead became one of the success stories of the early colonies - substituted for apples in pies and cooked as fritters.

Tea was the beverage of choice in the colonial period and was traditionally prepared by boiling water into a billy, or cooking pot, over a fire with a gum leaf for flavour. The early settlers brought rum with them and it was soon being produced in the new colonies. In the early years of European settlement rum was a major currency. Beer has also been popular since colonial times with beer being brewed since the late 18th century.

Familiar game animals such as rabbit and deer were introduced for hunting, with rabbit becoming an important food during the Great Depression of the 1930s as it was the only affordable meat for poorer families. In the last twenty years, rabbit has lost its reputation as a poor person's food and has gained popularity as a gourmet choice in Australian restaurants.

For a century, colonial Australia remained highly dependent on imports, other than for meat, but from the 1880s, the railways opened up the hinterland to agriculture: wheat, milk, sugar and irrigated fruit.

The 1980s brought larger numbers of Asian migrants, and virtually every town and suburb now has a Chinese and a Thai restaurant. The 'melting pot' of nationalities in Australia has brought with it a dazzling wealth of cuisines.

Modern Australian cuisine (and even wine), has been strongly influenced by the palettes of migrants to the country. The influx of immigrants from Eastern Europe, Asia and the Middle East has brought a vast range of new flavours. Chinese, Thai, Japanese, Lebanese, French, African and Greek cuisine have become strong influences on Australian tastes and the major cities have a wide choice of restaurants.

The face of Australian food has evolved significantly from the bland cooking and scarce ingredients used by the initial settlers to the highly imaginative blends, ingredients and flavours used in our cooking today.

Australian cuisine has also done a complete circle, with traditional bush tucker foods such as quandong, lemon myrtle, bunya nuts, macadamia nut, wattle-seed, lemon myrtle, lilly pilly and many game meats such as kangaroo, wallaby, emu and wild boar considered a speciality and found on restaurant menus around the world.

Today, many Australian chefs display these qualities of innovation and bold experimentation in their expression of originality, and are recognised all over the world for their fusion cuisine, combining traditional European cooking with Asian flavours. It’s ever-changing, diverse and innovative. It incorporates native produce and foods introduced by the many cultures living in Australia today.

By the 1900’s the Australian economy was largely driven by farm exports. Meat was considered the main part of the meal and dominated Australian dinner plates.

17 | JUNE 2016 thb

FOOD 5 WAYS

Lavish Lamb

WORDS Di von Essen

2. LAMB SHANKS It’s an ancient food that has its fair share of mentions in the Bible and other religious writings (think ‘Lamb of God’ in the Bible and the ‘Pascal • Bodega Restaurant – Melt in your mouth slow-braised lamb shank with creamy garlic mash potato with rich tomato and red wine jus Lamb’ used within the Jewish religion to celebrate Passover).

• Blaxlands Inn – Slow cooked lamb shanks Nutritionists recommend that the meat-eaters amongst us add lamb 3. LAMB RACK to the menu at least once a week, as it contains forms of selenium and • Hunters Quarter – Spice crusted lamb rack, ragout of barley, other minerals that seem to promote health, longevity and spiritual caramelised onion and slow roasted lamb shoulder and mental development. This may be why it is frequently mentioned • Circa 1876 – Four point lamb rack with pea puree, smoked yoghurt, in the Bible. peach gel, kipler and asparagus hash Lamb is also the best source of carnitine which plays a crucial role in • Redsalt Restaurant – Six point Milly Hill lamb rack from the grill energy production, as it is responsible for transporting fatty acids to 4. LAMB LOIN the mitochondria, which exist inside every cell in our bodies. They are • Esca Bimbadgen - Rolled lamb loin - chorizo, chickpea skordalia, labna, responsible for producing the energy that cells need to function. You kale, heirloom carrots and beetroot can think of mitochondria as being tiny power stations.

• Harvest Restaurant – Nigella crusted lamb loin with peas, thyme Carnitine has also been proposed as a possible treatment for a number essence and pea puree of health conditions including heart failure, angina, heart attack, and 5. LAMB TENDERLOIN (& OTHERS) diabetic neuropathy (www.medicalnewstoday.com).

• The Verandah Restaurant – Harissa lamb tenderloin, chickpea puree, Real ‘lamb’ is the meat from a sheep that is under one year old. The crispy sweet potato and chimichurri younger the lamb, the more delicate the flavour and the more tender • Cellar Restaurant – Pan fried lambs liver, bacon, mash, spinach and the flesh. The older the lamb, the deeper the colour of the meat, onion gravy though the time it has been hung for (about 8 days is best) and the • Deck Café – Middle Eastern lamb with warm pita bread, hummus, breed that it comes from will also make a difference to the texture and labna tzatziki and tomato, cucumber, coriander salsa taste of the meat.

• The Brickworks Brasserie at Potters – Lamb pizza with roast lamb, When choosing lamb for home cooking, always buy lamb from a source onion, capsicum, semi-dried tomato, basil, olives and mozzarella that you trust - a good supermarket, local butcher, farmer's market or shop is best – especially if you can speak directly to the butcher about the source of the meat. When choosing any cut of lamb, look for firm, WINE MATCHES FOR LAMB fine-grained meat with a velvety texture; it should be moist, rather than Lamb is one of the most wine-friendly of meats. It can be dry or slimy. Any fat on the outside of the lamb should be white (fat perfectly matched to classic Hunter Valley reds, as well as with that is yellow might well be rancid). Properly hung lamb should have a the fruitier varieties. If you’re looking for a spot-on match, it’s dark red, rather than bright red colour, although very young lamb will worth thinking about how long the lamb has been cooked for, the be paler than older lamb. accompaniments and the method with which it has been prepared Most menus around the Hunter Valley include lamb presented as various cuts and prepared in a variety of delicious ways. Here is our pick of the 5 of the most lavish lamb cuts and where you’ll find them...

1. LAMB SHOULDER • Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen – Slow cooked lamb shoulder with Bois Boudran sauce and buttered swede • Zaih’s Café – Lamb shoulder with Binnorie Dairy goats curd, radish and olives • Restaurant Cuvee – Entrée of braised lamb shoulder with rosemary pappardelle, petit pois (tiny green peas) and parmesan crisp • The Cellar Restaurant - 8 hour slow braised Milly Hill lamb shoulder with roast pumpkin and mint yoghurt • Matilda Bay Brewhouse - Slow braised lamb shoulder in tomato, rosemary, olives and sweet potato

and served. Here’s 5 of the best pairings…

1. PINOT NOIR - The wine to go with more delicate lamb dishes such as rack of lamb served with spring vegetables, lamb noisettes or a spring lamb stew. Also great if rosemary or a touch of Indian spice has been added to the mix. Try Capercaillie 2013 Pinot Noir RRP $32 from Cellar Door.

2. SHIRAZ – Best when your lamb has been barbequed but also the perfect accompaniment to braised lamb shanks. Try Ivanhoe Wines 2014 The Dark Horse Premium Reserve Shiraz RRP $70 at Cellar Door.

3. CABERNET MERLOT – A medium bodied red that is perhaps the most perfect match for a roast lamb. Try Constable Estate 2011 Cabernet Merlot RRP $28 at Cellar Door.

4. MERLOT – If your lamb dish is tomato based then Merlot is a match made in heaven. Try Ridgeview’s 2011 Shiraz. RRP $25 at Cellar Door.

5. TEMPRANILLO – Best with hot/spicy lamb and also with lamb teamed with Lebanese or Greek herbs and flavours. Try Pokolbin Estate 2013 Belebula Tempranillo RRP $28 at Cellar Door.

thb 18 | JUNE 2016

Pictured: Lambdish from Harvest Restaurant

WE BELIEVE IN THE SIMPLE THINGS IN LIFE. THEY JUST NEED TO BE AMAZING.

RESTAURANT

It’s time for High Tea! Indulge in your inner Marie Antoinette with a Traditional High Tea for just $42 per person. Book now and mention this ad to receive a complimentary glass of bubbles!

Valid until the 30th of June 2016.

Perfect for hens parties, bridal and baby showers and spoiling your loved ones for an intimate celebration.

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 Wed to Sun 12pm – 3pm High Tea Wed to Fri 12pm – 4pm Sat to Sun 12pm – 5pm Bookings essential: Ph 02 4998 4999 | convent@peppers.com.au

Restaurant Indoor/Outdoor Dining Fresh Local Produce Weddings, Events and Private Functions Wood Fired Pizza Oven

At Cockfighters Ghost Vineyard, 576 De Beyers Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7776 www.huntersquarter.com.au OPEN Lunch Thurs - Sun, Dinner Thurs, Fri, Sat & Mon

88 Halls Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 | www.theconventhuntervalley.com

19 | JUNE 2016 thb

CO FFE E • B R E A K FA S T • LU N C H • CATE RIN G At Zaih’s, we want to offer our customers the best coffee and cafe/bistro style food. We have a strong focus on quality and consistency, at an affordable price.

Relax on the deck, or enjoy the comfort of the air-conditioned indoor seating area. We can take care of the rest. BYO welcome.

332 LOVEDALE RD, LOVEDALE • OPEN THURSDAY - MONDAY 8AM - 4PM • WWW.ZAIHSCAFE.COM.AU • PH 0427 666 526

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

thb 20 | JUNE 2016

455 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin NSW 2320

MICHAL BLANK

Head Chef at Esca Bimbadgen Considered to be one of the most talented chefs in the Hunter Valley, Michal loves the adrenaline rush that comes with the chaos and demands of a busy kitchen.

In his new role as Head Chef at Esca Bimbadgen, Michal is tasked with heading the new culinary direction for this highly regarded restaurant – bringing with him an abundance of passion, attention to detail and pure focus to the kitchen.

Born in Poland in 1983, Michal moved to Australia with his mother in 1989 where he grew up in Balmoral before moving to Manly, where he lived until making the decision to move to the Hunter Valley.

Michal's passion for good food and cooking stems from his grandmother, who was an inspirational cook throughout his childhood.

Coming from a family with an Eastern European background, the whole family would regularly get together each Sunday for the traditional family lunch. As a result, Michal has fond memories of picking fruit and vegetables and helping his grandmother in the kitchen.

Surprisingly, Michal's decision to become a chef came later in life. One night, while working part time behind the bar at a wood fired pizza restaurant, Michal was asked to assist with food preparation in the kitchen. Despite his initial misgivings, Michal

discovered that he loved working with food and the camaraderie and energy that came with a fast paced and busy kitchen. With his future career decided upon, Michal never worked outside a kitchen again.

Over the years, Michal has been exposed to a wide variety of cooking techniques and culinary influences from all over the world and has worked alongside highly respected chefs that include Steven Lloyd from Pier 26 in Sydney’s Darling Harbour and Serge Dansereau from the iconic Bather’s Pavilion at Balmoral Beach.

In 2005, Michal joined Manly high-end restaurant Whitewater as a Sous Chef before leaving to gain valuable experience at the hugely successful Hugo’s Manly working with inspirational chef Massimo Mele.

Seven years later, Michal moved to the Hunter Valley where he was integral to the establishment of Goldfish as a highly regarded dining venue, serving an exceptionally high standard of food.

With Michal at the helm and with his passion for locating and using the best and freshest local produce, diners at Esca Bimbadgen are guaranteed a truly memorable dining experience.

With its stunning wine country views over the Bimbadgen vineyards and as a pioneer of fine dining in the Hunter Valley, the multi award winning Esca Bimbadgen exemplifies the unique nature of a winery restaurant, rather than simply a restaurant in a winery.

21 | JUNE 2016 thb

WINE

HUNTER VALLEY

Classics

CHARDONNAY

CAPERCALLIE WINES 2014 The Cuillin Chardonnay This wine was produced from the 35-year-old Capercaillie Row Chardonnay vineyards in Lovedale.

It was made using traditional juice clarification techniques and completed fermentation in French oak hogshead, 30% of which were new.

This style of Chardonnay hasn’t been produced since the 2007 vintage, as Capercaillie Wines and winemaker Peter Lane only release Cuillin Chardonnay on exceptional vintages.

TASTING Traditional winemaking techniques have resulted in an expressive wine displaying citrus, peach and melon characters.

These primary characters are supported by subtle oak and buttery nuances resulting from the small amount of malolactic activity. Supple rounded acid gives the wine length and persistence.

MCLEISH ESTATE 2015 Semillon The 2015 McLeish Estate Semillon is of a winning pedigree, hand-harvested from the estate single vineyard that has achieved the title of the World’s Best Semillon at the London International Wine Challenge, also starred as the Best Small Wine Producer and Best NSW Wine at the Sydney Royal Wine Show.

TASTING Vibrant quartz colour as a delicate youthful wine, with a lively harmonious lemon & lime zest aroma. The palate delivers a balance of lemon with delicate passion fruit and quince. These flavours are supported by equally fresh acidity. The fruit to acid balance ensure a long length and a framework for the future.

This wine is perfectly paired in Summer with freshly shucked oysters, and can be cellared until 2029.

thb 22 | JUNE 2016

Chardonnay is one of the world’s greatest grape varieties that grows well in a variety of locations throughout the world and is also an important component of many sparkling wines, including Champagne. Ranging from un-wooded, light and fresh to full-bodied barrel fermented and aged, this versatile grape can produce a range of styles that can be matched with just about any food.

Chardonnay first arrived in Australia in 1832 as part of the James Busby collection, however, it wasn’t until the 1970’s that Chardonnay came into vogue in Australia when tastes evolved from heavy reds.

In fact, it was the Hunter Valley that led the way with Tyrrell’s 1971 Vat 47 Chardonnay initiating Australia’s love affair with this variety. The result was that Chardonnay sales boomed in the 80’s and 90’s. Such was the demand for Australian Chardonnay that the area of Chardonnay vines increased more than fivefold during the decade, so that in 1990 Chardonnay became Australia’s most planted white wine grape variety.

One of the great virtues of Chardonnay is that it can produce compelling, complex and multi-layered wines capable of ageing from both warmer and cooler climates. Of all the white wines, Chardonnay is very responsive to the winemaker’s craft - broadening the style possibilities and enabling the winemaker to create a wine in a particularly style that he or she considered desirable.

In recent years, Chardonnay has made a comeback with styles that are not as heavy as the past but instead lighter, more elegant, a little subtler and of course have a little less oak.

When it comes to food, Chardonnay has the potential to be paired with a wide range of food types and is most commonly matched with poultry dishes, pork, seafood or recipes that have a heavy cream or butter base. Oysters and salmon also pair well with the citrus flavours of a crisp Chardonnay.

Of course, there’s also nothing better than a cool, sharp Chardonnay all by itself on a fine summer day and served at a moderate 12°C.

SEMILLON

Often referred to as "Australia’s unique gift to the wine world", Hunter Valley Semillon is a unique white wine which keeps improving with age and is considered to be the highest quality and best example of dry white Semillon wine produced anywhere in the world.

So strong is Semillon’s connection with the terroir of the Hunter Valley that the style cannot be replicated anywhere else in the world. Hunter Valley Semillon is widely regarded as Australia’s unique white wine – a style unlike all others, based on unique climatic conditions, winemaker ingenuity and more than 180 years of practice.

Apart from being one of the most mispronounced wines, Semillon is also one of the world's leading varieties of grapes and while the exact origin of the Semillon grape is difficult to establish, it's home is considered to be the South West of France - more specifically Bordeaux, where it is the most widely planted white grape in the region.

Australia's best Semillon is the dry style from the Hunter Valley, where the fruit is picked early, with low sugar levels and fermented dry without the use of oak and then bottled.

Classic Hunter Semillon is restrained, with piercing acidity and lemon flavours. As a cellaring wine, it is one of the greatest wines in the world and can be cellared for a good 20 years and even longer.

Over time it mellows from a fresh, tangy, fruity and pale coloured white wine into a deeper coloured softer and richer wine - evolving through an array flavours, slowly developing into richer and more honeyed characters that match with many different foods.

When young, Semillon is just perfect with fresh oysters, prawns and simply cooked white - fleshed fish. When more aged (10 years or more), it goes with smoked trout or salmon, grilled fish, roast chicken, creamy pastas, lemon based sauces, shellfish and most other seafood as well as semi hard cheese. You will never be sorry if you have a couple of bottles of both young and aged Semillon handy for a seafood luncheon.

MERLOT

Merlot is most famous in its homeland of Bordeaux in France, where it is often used to produce some of the world's most famous and most expensive wines. It is renowned for its wonderfully fruity, rounded, even fleshy character.

In Australia, it is considered to be one of the most important red grape varieties - coming in 3rd after Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. Merlot’s popularity is due to the fact that it is softer, fruitier, and earlier-maturing than Cabernet Sauvignon, yet displays many of the same flavours – cherry, currant, plums and raspberries along with mint and tobacco. Tannin levels also tend to be lower than other red grape varieties and the skin is a deep colour.

Merlots also possess a rich and ample softness that many Cabernets lack.

Although enjoyable as a varietal wine, it is most successful when blended with Cabernet Sauvignon - contributing to the depth of flavour and ability to age that merlot lacks. Merlot also has the ability to soften the severe and tough nature of a young Cabernet.

Merlot is grown in just about every region of Australia, only shying away from the coldest of wine growing regions and can tolerate and even thrive in poor conditions including bad quality or moist soils. The Hunter wine region has extensive plantings of Merlot and the summer heat is considered to provide the ideal growing conditions for this versatile grape variety. In recent years, Hunter Valley Merlot has experienced a surge in popularity and is often considered to be more robust and fleshy than other well regarded varieties, with a rich bouquet delivering one of the most pleasurable wine experiences.

When it comes to food matching, Merlot has the ability to match well with all different types of food including Italian-style, red sauced pastas or even salads and is a perfect wine with Winter beef stews and roasts. The agile sweet fruit characters of some Merlots are best matched with roasted meats or Mediterranean vegetables that compliment the variety.

For cheese, pate or game, try a Cabernet Merlot blend, where you can enjoy all the supple sweet fruit characters of Merlot, enhanced with some acidity and tannin from the Cabernet.

ASCELLA ORGANIC WINES 2013 Merlot Located in the Broke-Fordwich region of the Hunter Valley, Ascella Pure Wines is Australia’s largest family-run organic vineyard – with a full range of award winning white and red wines as well as a Rosé and Sparkling Pure Vescence.

TASTING With a taste inspired by passion, the 2013 Merlot has notes of bell pepper, berries, ripe plums and dried spices. Oak maturation has delivered a soft and complex wine with layers of vanilla and primary flavours of cassis. The soft tannins and subtle oak give the wine a smooth and yet rich finish on the palate.

This wine which won a bronze medal in open class in the Hunter Valley Boutique Wine Show is perfectly matched with slow cooked beef stew, roasted pork loin and roast chicken with thyme and onions.

SHIRAZ

Shiraz (or Syrah) is a dark-skinned grape that is thought to have originated from the Rhône wine-growing area of France but is now grown throughout the world and used primarily to produce rich, strong red wines which can be both varietal or blended.

Shiraz is without doubt Australia's favourite and most important wine variety and has played a crucial role in the development of our wine industry, both within Australian and overseas. Today, Shiraz is the most widely planted grape variety in Australia where it accounts for 40% of all red grapes planted in Australia. Australia is also the world's second largest Shiraz grower, after France.

The beauty of Shiraz is that it is extremely flexible in its ability to adapt to virtually any combination of climate and soil and can be made into a range of styles, defined by the terroir of the region and the winemaker’s skill. In an attempt to allow for regional characters to be expressed, many winemakers are moving away from 100% new American oak, preferring the use of older barrels or French oak. Smaller amounts of Shiraz are also used in the production of other wine styles, such as Rosé wine, fortified wine, Port wine and sparkling red wine.

The climate in the Hunter Valley consists of high temperatures during summer, with the majority of rainfall occurring between January and April. Despite the region’s tough growing conditions, the Hunter Valley produces some of the most famous Shiraz in Australia.

The typical young Hunter Valley Shiraz is a medium bodied wine showing red and dark berries, spices and a great deal of tannin. However, its real character is seen in wines with longevity. With age, the wines become a far more complex, full bodied, yet smooth and richly flavoured wine with some earthy tones. Bold flavours give Shiraz the reputation as a very food-friendly wine, and pairs well with rich foods. This wine is a good match with veal dishes, lamb, steak (especially peppery steaks), kangaroo, roast duck, Indian and Middles Eastern dishes, chocolate, smoked cheese and cured or smoked meats.

LAMBLOCH ESTATE 2013 The Loch Shiraz Lambloch Estate vines were planted in the 1950’s in prized volcanic loam soils that have been used to craft many great wines – such as the LOCH Shiraz which has been awarded 96 points three years in a row by James Halliday.

The LOCH Shiraz is an estate Shiraz made from the oldest block of Shiraz vines on Lambloch Estate.

TASTING With subtle spice, dark cherry and blackberry on the nose, the palate is delicate whilst structured with ripe tannin and complexity supporting a long lengthy finish.

FOOD MATCH Enjoy this elegant red wine on its own or like any Shiraz it is an excellent match for any red meat dish.

23 | JUNE 2016 thb

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.

Organic Wines

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

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

GREAT TASTING • AWARD WINNING • CERTIFIED ORGANIC

/OishiiPokolbin

The most unique, relaxed wine experience in the Hunter Come enjoy spectacular views and premium wines, including an exclusively Hunter Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. Relax by the fire, listen to music and indulge in the peace and vistas our vineyard and cellar door has to offer!

Pre-book for a late afternoon underground cellar tasting experience with cheese platter and if you desire a tasting of a cellar aged wine of your choice.

999 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998 7295 • MOB 0407 109 992 www.blueberryhill.com.au

thb 24 | JUNE 2016

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

TASTE WINE

ABOUT Terroir WORDS Quentin von Essen

TERROIR - that special sense of place or 'somewhereness' – when the weather, water, soil and sun dictate what ends up in your glass.

At almost every wine tasting, especially those comparing "old world" wine to "new world" wines, the inevitable question of terroir arises. So what does it mean?

One of the most interesting and perhaps also most hotly debated concepts in the world of wine is that of terroir – a French concept incorporating everything that contributes to the distinctive character of a particular vineyard site: its soil and subsoil; its drainage, slope and elevation, its temperature and exposure to the sun and wind.

Put simply, it’s the theory that a wine can possess a sense of place that is determined by the grapevines sensitivity to the physical properties of the vineyard environment, including both the local microclimate and the characteristics of the soil. Terroir, therefore describes the unique geography of a wine’s origin.

Cabernet Sauvignon grown in the Coonawarra versus Cabernet Sauvignon grown in the Yarra Valley.

Terroir takes into consideration: Soil type and fertility: Silt, sand, clay and loam are the soil types typically found in vineyards. Clay-based soils retain water and tend to be cooler, driving rich, bold reds and whites. Sandy soils result in aromatic wines, low in tannin and pale in colour while the fine grains of silt soils retain water and heat, leading to delicate, lightly-coloured wines. Loam soils are a combination of soil types and tend to result in vigorous growth.

Volcanic soils also retain water and, when coupled with a warm climate, result in hearty reds and bold whites.

Climate: Climate is arguably the most critical environmental aspect in ripening fruit to its optimum quality to produce a desired wine style.

Warm climates tend to produce big, bold wines, with higher alcohol, soft acidity, fuller body and lush fruit flavours, whereas cool, dry climates produce wines that are subtler with lower alcohol, crisp acidity, lighter in body and typically bright fruit flavours.

Weather conditions: As is often the case in the Hunter, sun, wind and rain can can destroy a vintage or create the “vintage of the century’’. The weather in Spring determines the quality of the vintage, but it’s the last six weeks that dictates the quality of the fruit. Late rain will cause grapes There is no doubt that the differences between vineyard sites, in terms to rot and frost can damage already ripened fruit. Too much sun will of soil types and microclimates, result in grapes with different properties “overcook” the grapes, resulting in overripe flavours. which then carry through into wines. This is easily illustrated when Drainage: Vines need water, but they ripen best when water is just comparing identical wines made in the same winery with the same within reach. A vineyard with natural drainage (via rocky soils etc.) grape variety, but from different vineyards. The wines taste differentresults in a wine of concentrated flavours, but too much water yields sometimes only subtly, but often there are significant differences. These “overblown” fruit. are the influences of terroir.

The concept of terroir is very easily demonstrated in tastings of varieties According to most viticulturists, great wine starts in the vineyard, so such as Pinot Noir. This grape is super-sensitive to its environment, with wine being produced all over the world, from Australia to Nebraska, reflecting the slightest distinctions of soil and climate in its aromas, Moldova to South Africa, Argentina to New Zealand and Bolivia to Israel, tastes, textures and structure. A tasting note for Pinot Noir can vary what makes one patch of dirt better than another, when it comes to more than any grape in the world and assuming the right growing grape growing? conditions and winemaking, it will tell the story of its vintage and place In the book entitled ‘The Vintner’s Art: How Great Wines Are Made’ in the world.

(1992) by Hugh Johnson and James Halliday, they described terroir to While the great majority of wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon be one of the key aspects by which all fine wine is judged. These key demonstrate that variety’s characteristic deep colour, blackcurrant aspects include (i) Character, which is defined by terroir; (ii) Quality, flavour, and firm tannins, with regional variations on this theme, the which is defined by winemaking and (iii) Personality, which is defined by Pinot Noir is chameleon-like. If the climate is too cool, the wines tend weather (not climate). to be weedy and pale; if too warm, they can turn out overly tannic. And There is little doubt that winemaking has a strong hand in defining even when all other grape-growing and winemaking variables are the the quality of the wine we drink, which is evident from the dramatic same, vineyards a mere 100 metres apart can yield completely different improvement in quality across the world, as a result of better viticulture styles of wine. and improved winemaking techniques.

But as the concept of terroir is further debated and examined – what is Terroir is that set of elements that craft the character of wine, creating clear is that it remains a mystery and an enjoyable topic of discussion the truly distinguishing features that define the differences between over a glass of wine.

25 | JUNE 2016 thb

WINE

Cellaring wine, however, is not an exact science and it’s important to keep in mind that not all wines improve with age and price is not a reliable indicator of a wines ageing potential.

The most important factor affecting the ageing of wine is the conditions in which it is stored. Wine should always be stored in a cool, dark place at between 8-12⁰c for white wines and 10-16⁰c for reds.

When it comes to selecting white wines to cellar, select wines with intense flavours and prominent acidity such as Hunter Semillon or Chardonnay. Big Chardonnays can age for 10 years or more, while Hunter Valley Semillon is one of the greatest cellaring wines in the world and can live for a good 20 years.

There are many styles of red that age well and varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz are very good ageing wines, as well as blends containing these varieties. Look for young wines with intense flavours, firm tannins, prominent acidity and vibrant, intense colours.

Looking to stock up your wine cellar for Winter?

Making Memories

Cellaring Wine

"With wine, you open a bottle, share it and you’re guaranteed to have a good time. It certainly beats collecting stamps." - Unknown Cellaring wines for ageing purposes is an enjoyable pastime and there is a great deal of pleasure to be had opening an aged bottle of wine to find that it has aged just perfectly.

Located at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, The Garden Cellars stock an extensive range of great boutique Hunter Valley and other regional wines at fantastic prices and is the perfect place to stock up the fast diminishing stock in your wine cellar. They also have great deals on mix your own case and also premixed mystery dozens, offering a variety of quality white, red, sweet and sparkling wines.

Of course, a visit to The Garden Cellars is not just about picking up a bottle (or two) – it's also about the tastings and there’s always a host of treats to ‘try before you buy’.

For many, cellaring wine is about collecting memories that relate to experiences and good times, that can often make them harder to open – but eventually they’ve all got to be drunk.

Designed to Delight.

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

thb 26 | JUNE 2016

Massive Wine Sale at The Garden Cellars Come in and Pick & Mix 12 wines from $100.

Huge selection of wine to choose from.

Mention this advertisement in store and receive a free bottle of wine with any purchase exceeding $30!

THE GARDEN

CELLARS

“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

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 27 | JUNE 2016 thb

Much more than a Vineyard.

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

Come Waltzing with Matilda...

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

• 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

AWARD WINNING VENUE

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!

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

Cheers Bus

Hunter Valley Guided Winery Tours

Book your tour securely at www.cheersbus.com • Private or shared deluxe tours in an air conditioned mini bus, seven days per week • Pick up from your local accommodation or group pickups only from Sydney, Central Coast, Newcastle, Maitland and Singleton areas and be escorted throughout the day • Witness the beauty and tranquillity of Hunter Wine Country on route to our our your 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 thb 28 | JUNE 2016

Growing Grapes SUSTAINABLY Significant changes to our planet brought about by carbon dioxide emissions, river drainage, black carbon emission, industrial agriculture, deforestation and the use of chemicals have changed the way we think about those components we typically take for granted - the water we drink, the food we eat, the air we breathe and the way we treat the land that makes this all possible.

Speak to any number of chefs and you will find that they all share a common desire to please the palate. This goal has now evolved to include providing healthier food, that tastes great and is good for the environment.

Let's face it you rarely get to watch a cooking show without hearing the word ''sustainability'' in relation to farming, produce selection or food preparation anymore.

In many ways this is indicative of the growing awareness and belief in society that we are just as responsible for the environment as we are for our productiveness.

Today, sustainability is about designing an efficient, eco-friendly environment, reducing waste, recycling, composting, using biodegradable products whenever possible, conserving water and generally paying more attention to one's impact on the environment when drinking or eating - whether its serving organic foods and wines or simply knowing where the food comes from.

“Sustainability” may come across to some as a soft, fuzzy buzzword, but grape growers are grabbing onto it, and it’s spreading like a virus in grape-growing areas with many winemakers and viticulturists making the move towards more sustainable farming methods and a better understanding of biodynamic and organic farming and wine making.

What started out as a cottage industry in the 1970’s, organic winemaking in Australia has gained significant popularity to the point where there is now a fast growing number of organic farmers in the Australian (and global) wine industry. At the same time, a growing number of skilled and business -savvy wine-makers have embraced innovative production processes and cutting-edge technology to produce critically acclaimed and commercially successful organic wines.

Organic wine is wine made from grapes grown in accordance with principles of organic farming and like organic foods, is produced without the use of artificial chemical fertilizers, pesticides, fungicides, and herbicides.

Bio-dynamic farming, often referred to as ''an advanced method of organic farming'', puts the focus on having healthy, alive, nutrient rich soils and a well-balanced environment to allow the plant to effectively channel and utilise everything it needs to grow. Practices include the use of specific herb and mineral preparations to enhance the vitality of plants, soils, composts and livestock.

To become a certified biodynamic producer, a farm needs first to certify organic, and then if biodynamic principles are added to the farming program, then the term biodynamic can apply.

It's hard to get an accurate number of just how many wine producers are employing biodynamic principles. It’s a method of cultivation that is rapidly catching on among wine producers - especially in France (particularly Burgundy and Alsace). In addition, besides those already certified as biodynamic, there are also those who are experimenting with part of their production. It is a very rapidly changing picture.

Here in the Hunter Valley Tamburlaine, Krinklewood and Ascella Pure Wines are the most recognised organic and biodynamic wine producers in the region.

As a group they have a deep commitment to the environment and the health and wellbeing of their customers. Together they share a passion to make wines that capture the unique flavours of the Hunter Valley and are reflective of the local terroir.

29 | JUNE 2016 thb

Introducing the Hunter Valley's

The Story of the Olive The olive has such a long and beloved history that, to many, olive trees almost seem holy.

It is among the oldest known cultivated trees in the world - being grown before the written language was invented. Olives were being grown on Crete by 3,000 BC and played an important role in Greek mythology. Olives are mentioned in the Bible, depicted in ancient Egyptian art and found in Egyptian tombs from as far back as 2,000 years BC. The olive is undeniably one of the most celebrated fruits of all time. Its taste, virtues and mystique have been praised in various religious texts, and have been extolled by philosophers, poets and writers down through the centuries.

Get your taste for adventure today at ...Pokolbin Estate.

The use of olive oil is also found in many religions and cultures and has been used during special ceremonies as well as a general health measure. It was used to anoint the early kings of the Greeks and Jews; used by the Greeks to anoint winning athletes and in some cultures used to anoint the dead.

Today, olive oil is still used in many religious ceremonies and over the years the olive has been the symbol of peace, victory, wisdom, fertility, power, purity and the endurance of life itself - evoking feelings of harmony, vitality, and health.

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

As one of the oldest foods known to man, the olive is thought to have originated in Asia Minor, before spread from Iran, Syria and Palestine to the rest of the Mediterranean between five thousand and seven thousand years ago.

POKOLBIN ESTATE VI NEYARD

Tempranillo | Nebbiolo | Sangiovese

These ancient trees, which are thought to have originated in the region that is today called Turkey, have had a huge impact on all the important civilizations of the Mediterranean for thousands of years - providing food, medicinal potions, and the most nourishing of oils. Today there are 800 million olive trees growing on Earth, and no less than 500 different "cultivars," or varieties of olives.

In the past several hundred years the olive has spread to North and South America, Japan, New Zealand and Australia where there are an estimated 1,500 olive growers and over 35,000 hectares of planted olives.

from Adina Vineyard Whether it’s a luscious Hunter estate Shiraz, a beautiful Cabernet blend or a warming Muscat for the winter chills, you will find the line-up of Adina red wines just perfect for your 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.

The natural diversity of Australia, together with a selection of the world’s best olive varieties and a progressive and innovative olive oil industry is responsible for the exciting range of high quality extra virgin olive oils available here today.

While it's a relatively small industry in New South Wales - just 6 per cent of total production behind the big growing regions of Victoria and Western Australia, the bulk of the state's olives are grown and processed in the Hunter Valley where it has very quickly evolved into a mainstream agricultural industry.

The renaissance of the Hunter Valley as an olive producing area dates back to the early 1990’s and today is home to more than 150 olive groves producing high quality oils that are characterised by their fresh and bold flavours.

One of the most prominent producers is Adina Vineyard and Olive Grove in Lovedale with an extensive planting of 4,000 trees and an onsite processing facility. As the largest processor in the Valley, Adina Vineyard & Olive Grove also do the processing for more than 100 growers in the region.

THIS MONTH: Learn more about Olives and Olive Oil VINEYARD

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

thb 30 | JUNE 2016

If you love olives and olive oil and want to know more about them, then make sure you go to the Adina Olive Experience which takes place every Saturday in June (except 4th) - from 10.30am. Here you will discover how olive oil is made and what ''extra virgin” means, see just how the extraction process works, taste different varieties and experience fresh olive oils. Conclude with a specially prepared olive entrée and glass of Adina wine. The cost is $35 per person.

Hunter Distillery is a 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 31 | JUNE 2016 thb

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

SHOPS

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

GOURMET PRODUCE

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Adina Vineyard H17 Ascella Pure Wines I1 Bimbadgen Estate G11 Blueberry Hill E10 Briar Ridge R12 Capercaillie Wines L16 Constable Estate J9 Hermitage Road Cellars F5 Hope Estate K12 Hunter Distillery K6 Ivanhoe Wines P8 Lambloch Estate K13 Peterson House K14

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MARKETS

HV Wine School F5 iHop HV stop i

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TO SYDNEY M1 PACIFIC MOTORWAY

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Picturesque views at Ivanhoe Wines P8

TO QUORROBOLONG

Handmade in the Hunter Markets K12 Balloon Aloft (Pickup Point) K14 Cessnock Regional Art Gallery Q17 Cypress Lakes Golf Course M10 Golden Door Health Retreat & Spa L9 Hunter Beer Co. N16 HV Horseriding & Adventures D17 Hunter Valley Gardens K10 HV Reflections Day Spa H17 HV Wine Theatre F5

ACTIVITIES

Pokolbin Village K11 Wine Glass Gallery K10

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Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen

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COMING UP

01-17 SNOWTIME IN THE GARDENS at Hunter Valley Gardens

Snow Time in the Gardens is a great opportunity for families and friends to get together and experience an icy wonderland over three huge weeks, including the winter school holidays! Chill out on the giant ice skating rink, the 25m ice toboggan and build a snowman in the man-made Snow Play Zone!

With games, entertainment, warm beverages and hearty food, there is so much fun to be had for all ages. This is a day and night event running from 10am – 9pm every day. www.hvg.com.au

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July 03

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BROKE VILLAGE MARKET Wollombi Street, Broke

WINTER ROSE PRUNING at Hunter Valley Gardens

WINERY LONG LUNCH at Calais Estate

09+23 HANDMADE IN THE HUNTER MARKETS Kevin Sobels Wines

The over-18, one-day event has a “second-hand formal” dress code, and a decadent feast of quality boutique beers, fine wines, naughty cocktails and mouthwatering food in a stunning secluded venue, Dashville. Other artists on the lineup include King Tide, Masco Sound System, Justin Ngariki and the Darstardly Bastards and Claire Anne Taylor.

This wild event has sold out the past two years, don't miss out in 2016! www.dashville.com.au

thb 34 | JUNE 2016

Winter Rose Pruning is open to the public from 9am to 5pm everyday.

Adult entry is $28, children $17 and a family pass is $80 (2 adults, 2 children). You can purchase tickets online at www.hvg.com.au

09+16+23 CHRISTMAS IN JULY at Twine and RidgeView

PIGSTY IN JULY Dashville, Lower Belford

Pigsty in July, the wild little sister of The Gum Ball and Dashville Skyline, is back for 2016, this year headlined by Kiwi rock juggernaut Shihad.

Ever wonder how it’s done? Hunter Valley Gardens have thousands of roses to prune, let them show you how! With demonstrations and talks throughout the day, you can be sure you are caring for your roses correctly. Don’t forget to pick up your complimentary rose cutting on departure.

Ever wondered why Australians celebrate Christmas in July?

Australia has British and European heritage, hence there is an attachment to the tradition of celebrating Christmas in cold weather - July generally being the coldest month here. It wouldn't be Christmas in July (also known as Yulefest or Yuletide) without some hearty dinners to celebrate!

Two of our favourite Hunter Restaurants Twine and RidgeView are in celebration mode, with Twine hosting dinners on the 9th, 16th and 23rd, and RidgeView on the 23rd.

Book in quick, as seats will fill up.

For menu information visit their websites www.ridgeview.com.au and www.twinerestaurant.com.au

More than just a wine tour, Calais Estate and Verandah Restaurant have created the experience all wine lovers are after!

Begin with a glass of sparkling wine and canapés, then embark on a tour of the inner workings of a Boutique winery. Learn how wine is made and get hands-on designing some of your own sparkling! A 5-course degustation by Verandah Restaurant follows, this is when you get to sample the Estate’s extensive boutique wine list! To book visit www.calaiswine.com.au

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THE COAL AND ALLIED SINGLETON ART PRIZE at Singleton Civic Centre

WINERY RUNNING FESTIVAL Hunter Valley Gardens

Starting 33 years ago, the annual Singleton Art Prize has matured into one of the largest regional art prizes in NSW, and one of the most prestigious.

Run by the local Rotary Club, the goals are to provide a service to the Singleton community, facilitate a growing appreciation of art, encourage developing artists (including our youth), and raise funds for deserving organisations and projects.

An average of 1500 visitors pass through the Singleton Civic Centre to enjoy up to 800 paintings. The prize pool is currently at $18,500, the best work winning up to $5000.

Don't miss the art on show at Singleton Civic Centre, Queen Street Singleton.

Run, coffee, cake, lunch... wine?

Just have a go!

The 10th annual Winery Running Festival will be staged at Hunter Valley Gardens and include the Ultra Marathon, Winery Marathon, Half Marathon, 10.3km Vineyard Run, 5.2km Winery Wander and 2k Kids Marathon.

Competitors can run or walk any event, start and finish in the same area, as well as enjoy the sport and local produce expo and family entertainment on offer. Enjoy running (or walking) past world renown vineyards and resorts in one of Australia's top wine regions!

For more information or to enter visit www.hevents.com.au

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HunterValleyShopping.com.au

Shopping Vill V Village age 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 A unique selection of Australian and New Zealand fashion and accessories from Camilla, Mela Purdie, Tigerlilly, Verge, Willow & Zac, Samantha Wills, Solsana and more. Plus a small range of mens wear and accessories.

WINE GLASS GALLERY A unique gift gallery, colourful hand blown also crystal wine glasses, original artworks, homewares, collectable teapots, art glass vases, new season scarves, jewellery, shot glasses & a variety of souvenirs.

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 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.

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

Full of groceries and curiosity. Visit Hunter Honey Hive to experience everything honey and bee related, with free tastings daily!

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 V age Vill BROKE ROAD, POKOLBIN OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 10AM