The Hunter Blackboard March 2018 by WCP MEDIA

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

BLACKBOARD

CHOCtastic! CHARDONNAYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S COMEBACK! Nostalgia Hits KURRI KURRI

MARCH 2018 | ISSUE #133

THE HUNTER BLACKBOARD IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH...

FOR YOUR DIARY

March...

3 + 10 + 17 + 24 + 31

PUBLISHED BY: WCP Media

Market

Music

HANDMADE IN THE HUNTER MARKETS

A DAY ON THE GREEN

at Kevin Sobels Wines Discover the variety and quality of goods grown, made and created by Hunter Valley artisans at the Handmade in the Hunter Markets. Held at Kevin Sobels Wines every Saturday in March. For more information, visit www.handmadehuntermarkets.com.au

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES:

at Bimbadgen Estate Singer-songwriter James Blunt returns to Australia with his The Afterlove Tour. Joining him will be Pete Murray, Busby Marou, Alex Lloyd and Karise Eden, making this a jam-packed day of entertainment! Tickets available at www.adayonthegreen.com.au

10 & 11

PH +61 2 4943 2888 HunterValleyOnline.com.au enquiries@wcpmedia.com.au

WCP MEDIA

Level 1, 216 Pacific Hwy, Charlestown, NSW 2290 FEBRUARY 2018. Copyright © 2018 WCP Media. Published monthly by WCP Media. All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpt granted by written request only. While every attempt has been made, WCP Media cannot guarantee the legality, completeness or accuracy of the information presented and accepts no warranty or responsibility for such.

SPECIAL OFFERS AVAILABLE From 1st March 2018 until the 31st March 2018 inclusive or while stocks last.

Music

Festival

HOT DUB WINE MACHINE

MAITLAND TASTE FESTIVAL

at Hope Estate The popular event is back again in 2018 with a fantastic line-up of some of Australia's most loved bands and DJ's. Hot Dub Time Machine is the world's first travelling DJ and the best party ever! Don't miss out! For more information, visit www.hopeestate.com.au

at The Levee, Central Maitland Enjoy a wide range of street food, coffee, local wine and produce from around the Hunter region. With demonstrations, performances, kids activities, plus more there will be something for everyone! For more information, visit www.maitlandtaste.com.au

23 - 25

GET MOBILE!

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

Festival

Music

KURRI KURRI NOSTALGIA FESTIVAL

CROSSROADS IN THE VINES

throughout Kurri Kurri Enjoy the rock 'n' roll atmosphere as Kurri Kurri is transformed into all the glory of a bygone 50's and 60's era. For more information and the full program visit, www.kurrikurrinostalgiafestival.com.au

thb 2 | MARCH 2018

at Roche Estate Crossroads in the Vines presents Billy Ray Cyrus, along with Lee Kernaghan, Kasey Chambers and more! A night not to be missed! For more information, visit www.crossroadsinthevines.com

WANT MORE? Keep up to date with events in the Hunter by visiting www.huntervalleyonline.com.au

FROM THE EDITORS Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn! Autumn is a time of transformation in the Hunter Valley, as the long rows of vines change from deep green to shades of red, orange and purple before the leaves gracefully fall for the Winter months. The days are getting shorter, and the weather is cooling down, with magnificent sunny days and slightly cooler nights. Over the years, the Hunter Valley has undergone a myriad of changes to become the awardwinning wine region and tourist mecca it is today. In this issue, we take a look back at our region's history from the original Aboriginal inhabitants through to being discovered by chance by Lieutenant John Shortland and then becoming a penal colony for Sydney Cove’s most difficult convicts. Quite the transformation from the Hunter Valley we know today! With the busy Vintage period over, March is a more relaxed time in the Hunter Valley and the perfect time to get out and enjoy some

Hunter Valley Vineyards Boutique Cheesery

great events! This month there is something for everyone. Foodies can get their tastebuds excited at Maitland Taste and A Little Bit of Italy in Broke; art lovers can take part in art classes at Thirsty Palette Wines or talk to world-renowned artists at Morpeth’s Festival of Two Palettes; and music lovers can get their groove on at a day on the green or Crossroads in the Vines! And how can we forget Easter! Why wait until the end of the month to satisfy your chocolate cravings, when we have put together a guide to some great chocolate dishes available throughout the Hunter Valley. Go on, treat yourself! If a glass of Chardonnay is more tempting then a chocolate egg, then we have good news for you. Gone are the days of the golden, oak-lavished style, with Chardonnay making a comeback with styles that are lighter, more elegant and of course with a little less oak.

HUNTER VALLEY

CHEESE FACTORY Award winning cheese handmade in Pokolbin Hunter Valley to complement 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.

Enjoy! LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!

Contents CROSSROADS IN THE VINES

CHOCOHOLICS GUIDE

NOSTALGIA HITS KURRI KURRI

FROM CONVICTS TO CHARDONNAY

Country music fans get your achy breaky hearts ready, as some of the biggest names in Country music from Australia and around the world are coming to the Hunter Valley this month!

To help you get your chocolate fix, not just during Easter, but all year long, we take a look at where you can satisfy your chocolate cravings in Wine Country!

Step back in time to a bygone era this month, as Kurri Kurri celebrates all things 1950’s and 60’s at the popular annual Nostalgia festival!

The Hunter Valley has a colourful history. From its Aboriginal heritage to a colony for the worst convicts, it is now one of Australia’s most popular and recognised wine regions…

CHARDONNAY'S COMEBACK

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

HUNTER BLACKBOARD MAP

www.huntervalleycheese.com.au

Chardonnay’s popularity peaked in the late 80’s and early 90’s before changing tastes lead to declining sales. But the good news is that Chardonnay is making a comeback! The Hunter Blackboard's handy guide to finding your way around Wine Country.

3 | MARCH 2018 thb

HOT IN THE HUNTER

GET FRECKLED & SPECKLED this Easter at Hunter Valley Chocolate

Wedding Chapel Special Offer To celebrate marriage equality in Australia, Lovedale Wedding Chapel and Reception are offering 25% off the hire of their wedding chapel for ALL couples who book their 2018 or 2019 complete wedding packages by the 31st March 2018. For more information, call 0419 412 137 or visit www.lovedaleweddingchapel.com.au

Forget the mass-produced Easter eggs available in the supermarket. This Easter, enjoy the high quality and extremely delicious chocolate from Hunter Valley Chocolate Company! If you are after something a little bit different to the traditional Easter egg, why not try Hunter Valley Chocolate Company’s sugar-coated Speckled Eggs, with a solid milk chocolate centre or hazelnut praline, or the delicious Freckle Eggs, available in various sizes.

Stuck for Easter gift ideas? Pop into any of the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company’s stores to explore their entire range and check out their great value Easter Hampers! WHERE Hunter Valley Chocolate Company, Twenty-3-Twenty, 2320 Broke Road, Pokolbin; Peterson House, Cnr Broke Road & Wine Country Drive; and Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Shop 5, Broke Road, Pokolbin. OPEN 7 Days. PH 4998 6999. www.hvchocolate.com.au

International Flavours on the Menu at

VERANDAH! It's Time for the

TEDDY BEAR'S PICNIC! If you go into the woods on Sunday 1st April, you’re sure of a big surprise, as that’s the day the teddy bears have their picnic!

The Teddy Bears Picnic at Hilltop (home to Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures) is guaranteed to be a great alcohol-free day out for the whole family with plenty of entertainment for the kids including pony rides, jumping castle, pedal go karts, plenty of games and prizes to be won and of course, an Easter Egg hunt! Normal Horse Trail Rides will also be operating all day. WHERE Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures – Hilltop, 288 Talga Road, Lovedale. PH 4930 7111. www.huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au

thb 4 | MARCH 2018

This year, Verandah Restaurant will use their Local’s Nights to take diners taste buds on an around-the-world journey. Each month will embrace a different international flavour, from Scotland to South America and even the USA for only $50 per person and free BYO! The next Local’s Night will take place on Sunday 11th March and will showcase the flamboyant flavours of South America. Visit the Verandah Restaurant’s website for upcoming dates and themes. Or you can savour the tastes of Spain at the Verandah Restaurant’s Hands-on Paella Cooking Class on Sunday 18th March. For only $95 per person, you can participate in the cooking class and then enjoy your

Photo by Brent Leggett

creations as part of a three-course lunch with beverages. WHERE Verandah Restaurant, located at Calais Estate, Palmers Lane, Pokolbin. OPEN 7 Days for lunch. Thurs – Sun for dinner. PH 4998 7231. www.verandahrestaurant.com.au

EASTER LONG WEEKEND 30TH MARCH â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2TH APRIL 2018

Get Hunting this Easter at

Join us for a fun filled weekend with spectacular rides* for the whole family!

HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS!

During the Easter Long Weekend, there will be loads of fun for the whole family at Hunter Valley Gardens as they host a fantastic program of activities, entertainment and prizes, as well as an appearance by the Easter Bunny! Now in its 12th year, this annual event will be held from Friday 30th March to Monday 2nd April 2018, with the popular Giant Easter Egg Hunt taking place on Saturday and Sunday. The Giant Easter Egg Hunt is a favourite of all the Easter activities, as children participate in the search for thousands of brightly coloured plastic eggs throughout the Storybook Garden. Every child that participates receives a gift of Easter chocolate at the completion of the hunt. The Giant Easter Hunt runs every 45 minutes from 10am until 2.30pm. Make sure you keep an eye out for the Golden Egg that will be hidden somewhere in the Gardens to win a Family Annual Pass for two adults and two children worth $350. There will only be one Golden Egg hidden each day, so be sure to arrive early! But the fun doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t end there; kids can hang out with the Easter Bunny while he takes a break from delivering eggs, take part in gingerbread workshops, admire the hatching chicks, plus heaps more! For more information about all the Easter fun happening at Hunter Valley Gardens over the Easter Long Weekend visit www.hvg.com.au

Enjoy a weekend filled with great activities including, our Super Slide Swing Chair, Ferris Wheel and Carousel*. Each day there is also a golden egg hunt to win a Family Annual Pass and we have hatching chickens! PLUS over Easter Saturday and Sunday join our Giant Easter Egg Hunt, led by the Easter Bunny! Every child will receive a gift of Easter chocolate at the completion of the hunt.

02 4998 4000 - Broke Rd Pokolbin - hvg.com.au Admission charges apply. Program subject to change. Some activities may not open in adverse weather conditions and for unscheduled maintenance. Terms and conditions of entry apply. Swing Chair and HVG Super Slide - 110cm-120cm must ride with an adult, 120cm and above may ride alone. *Rides are user pay.

5 | MARCH 2018 thb

TO DO

Sip, Taste and Savour

At Maitland Taste Festival Journey into The Levee, Central Maitland on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th March for the 2018 Maitland Taste Festival.

Visitors will be treated to a wide range of street food, coffee, local wine and produce from around the Hunter region, available to sample and purchase. With a diverse program of demonstrations, performances, live art, workshops and kids activities, there is something for everybody. The Kitchen and Garden stages will host experts in cooking and gardening, who will be providing tips for growing fruit and vegetables at home and creating delicious feasts in the kitchen. This year, Celebrity Chef Matt Golinski will feature at the festival, running several cooking demonstrations, food tastings and will also MC different events. Matt is a highly regarded, professional chef with a passion for creating cuisine using fresh, seasonal and local ingredients. He has worked as executive chef at some of Queensland’s leading restaurants and has his own catering company. Matt now enjoys working as a consulting chef to restaurants, being a regular

THE HUNTER VALLEY’S ITALIAN FESTIVAL

Saturday 7 & Sunday 8 April 2018 A weekend program of Italian food, wine, festivites and fun, hosted throughout Broke Fordwich

Emma’s Cottage Vineyard 438 Wilderness Road, Lovedale 2320 • (02) 4998 7734 www.emmascottage.com.au

thb 6 | MARCH 2018

For event details, accommodation packages, program & bookings visit

italyinbroke.com.au

olives, olives, olives Come visit us for a range of Estate Grown Olives, Tapenade and local olive oils or a Cheese platter on the deck with a glass of wine 725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley www.tintilla.com.au Your always welcome at...

Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant

guest chef at festivals and events and writing his popular food columns and blog. He is also an active member of the Slow Food movement and a motivational speaker. There will be live music each day across four performance spaces, featuring some of the region’s greatest independent artists, and kids will be entertained with free seedling planting, craft workshops, games and cooking classes. You can enjoy all this and more at Maitland Taste Festival for free from 10am to 4pm each day. For more information about the event plus transport options, visit www.maitlandtaste.com.au

There is nothing quite like a fes�ve sushi pla�er to impress your guests. It tastes healthy, light and delicious. A favourite dining experience for locals and visitors alike. Always fresh... Always vibrant Open 7 days for lunch and dinner. Takeaway available every day. Roche Estate, Hunter Valley Corner of Broke Rd & Mcdonald Rd’s Pokolbin, NSW 2320 PH 02 4998 7051 www.oishii.com.au

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

/OishiiPokolbin

IVANHOE WINES…A Wine for Every Knight. 525 Marrowbone Rd Pokolbin | Ph 4998 7325 | Open 7 Days 10am—5pm | www.ivanhoewines.com.au

Premium Boutique Wines

2015

CERTIFICATE of EXCELLENCE

7 | MARCH 2018 thb

TASTE

The best of both worlds at

A LITTLE BIT OF ITALY IN BROKE

Among some of the incredible cuisine on offer will be gourmet Italian barbecue, organic cheese and olives at Ascella Organic Wines; gourmet Italian picnic share hampers from Greenway Wines; woodfired pizza and gelato in the Tuscan-inspired courtyard at Krinklewood; and mouth-watering pasta and soup at Lavender Ridge. Visitors will also love the dishes at Mount Broke Wines such as traditional pizza, antipasto and delicious tiramisu; while Tinonee Vineyard Estate will tempt you with classic favourites like gelato and Italian-originated macaroon. And for the sausage lover, Somerville Wines is the place to go for home-made Italian sausages by the Barbalance family. Dinner will also be available at Catherine Vale Wines, Margan and Nightingale Wines. Once again there’s plenty on offer for those who love cooking and creating as much as eating, with gnocchi-making classes; artisan salami presentations; cheese tastings; and Italian cooking demonstrations. Some workshops and demonstrations are free, while others charge a fee and require bookings. This year a Little Bit of Italy in Broke has partnered with the Singleton Cancer Appeal and glass sponsor Zafferano, with $2 from every Zafferano glass sold going to the appeal. Transfer buses will run on Saturday and will pick visitors up from a wide range of accommodation in the Cessnock, Rothbury, Lovedale or Pokolbin areas. Advanced bookings recommended. For the full program and more information, visit www.italyinbroke.com.au

Broke Fordwich will be brimming with life early next month when the 13th annual Little Bit of Italy in Broke Festival once again brings the essence of Italian hospitality to this picturesque corner of the Hunter Valley. Stretching across 11 venues, the highly-anticipated event brings with it a weekend full of fun, laughter and hospitality – as well as an abundance of fresh, authentic cuisine, local produce, cooking classes, workshops, demonstrations, vineyard tours and the region’s renowned local wines. Set in the stunning rural scenery and welcoming vibe of the Broke Fordwich community, the festival offers the perfect foodie escape in this peaceful pocket of the valley. Showcasing the region’s diverse wine offerings along with its divine local produce, A Little Bit of Italy in Broke offers the visitor the best of local hospitality with a touch of that special Italian magic. Relaxation and indulgence are yours for the taking, with plenty to see, do, eat and drink. Many of the venues are teaming up with local restaurants for the festival to bring gastronomical delights to visitors, with a host of options available for delicious, fresh, authentic Italian cuisine.

S Patrick’s Day

Italian-originated macaroons at Tinonee Vineyard Estate

Join us for the biggest St Paddy’s Day celebration!

$9 PINTS

lkenny and of Guinnessl,wKieekend long! al rs ne ag M

SATURD AY & S U

1 7 - 18 M 20 1 8

NDAY

A RC H

If you thought this was going to be your average St Patrick’s Day event, you were wrong. We’ve got Irish bands, Irish dancers, an Irish pipe band, drink specials and to top it off, prizes to give away all weekend long!

For details visit harrigans.com.au DRINK RESPONSIBLY

thb 8 | MARCH 2018

or call 4998 4300 to make a booking

harrigans.com.au - Broke Road Pokolbin

THIRST Y PALET TE

Art W ksh s TERM ONE 2018

Get Artistic in Lovedale A unique program of one or two day programs is being offered in conjunction with Wilderness Art Studio for beginners interested in oil and acrylic painting. A free wine tasting at the cellar door and all art materials are included. This is a great way to relax and tap into your creative self with new and old friends! March 3 & 4 - self-portrait in oils March 11 - beginner flowers and blossoms March 17 & 18 - exciting abstract painting in acrylics March 25 - simple and serene 'still life' in oils April 7 & 8 - colour mixing for harmony (acrylics and oils)

$75 per session | All sessions run from 10am to 3pm. Phone or text Jacquie to secure your place on 0417 009 912 247 Wilderness Road, Lovedale

Let your artistic skills shine through at an art workshop at Thirsty Palette Wines & Art on Wilderness Road in Lovedale. Wilderness Art Studio, in conjunction with Thirsty Palette Wines, has a range of one and two-day art programs coming up for beginners who are interested in oil and acrylic painting. Run by resident artist, Jacquie Mather, the art classes will teach you how to develop sketches to turn your ideas into a great piece of art, with some painting fundamentals, a little art theory and lots of fun! Passionate about sharing her love for the wilderness and art, Jacquie's qualifications include a Master’s Degree in Adult Education, a Masters of Arts (Painting) Degree, in addition to over twenty years teaching experience in Australia, Asia and Europe. She aims to ensure all participants have a relaxing and fun time while learning more about painting, whether your chosen subject matter is landscape, still life, or abstraction. Programs for March include Self Portrait in Oil (3rd & 4th), Beginner Flowers and Blossoms (11th), Exciting Abstract Painting in Acrylics (17th & 18th) and Simple and Serene ‘Still Life’ in Oils (25th). All sessions run from 10am to 3pm and are $75 per person, which includes all art materials and a free wine tasting at the cellar door. For more information or to secure your place, phone or text Jacquie on 0417 009 912.

spa experience not just a treatment

A total

Choose from our extensive range of spa, beauty and massage therapies. All treatments include complimentary use of Day Spa facili�es, including steam room, spa bath and relaxa�on lounge.

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL PH (02) 4993 8500 or email spa@elysia.com.au 165 Thompsons Road, Pokolbin. www.goldendoor.com.au/spa-elysia

POKOLBIN VILLAGE ACCOMMODATION Wedding Group Specialists groups@pokolbinvillage.com.au P: (02) 4998 7670

Complimentary shuttle bus for group bookings of 10 or more rooms 2 NIGHT MINIMUM STAY

9 | MARCH 2018 thb

Billy Ray Cyrus continues captivating audiences with his distinctive vocal style and charismatic stage presence. Throughout nearly three decades, Cyrus has achieved worldwide success as a singer, songwriter, actor and producer. He exploded onto the music scene in 1992 when his first album, Some Gave All, made history by debuting at number one on the Billboard album charts. In Australia it held the position for 17 consecutive weeks; a record he still holds as a solo male artist. The lead single, “Achy Breaky Heart” became a phenomenon as the single became the first single ever to achieve triple Platinum status in Australia and was the best-selling single of 1992. Some Gave All also went on to sell 9 million copies. Along the way, Cyrus charted 35 singles, 16 of which are Top 40 hits, including “Could’ve Been Me,” “Where’m Gonna Live When I Get Home,” “She’s Not Cryin,” “Some Gave All,” “Ready, Set, Don’t Go” and many more. Recently, he re-recorded “Achy Breaky Heart” in Muscle Shoals to celebrate the 25th anniversary. Cyrus has also enjoyed a successful career as an actor, most notably in cable series “Doc,” and in the Disney series “Hannah Montana” with his daughter Miley Cyrus. Today, Cyrus stars in CMT’s “Still the King” and is recording new music while playing to live audiences across North America. After years of “slogging it out in pubs”, Lee Kernaghan’s debut album The Outback Club and hit single “Boys from the Bush” propelled him out of the musical wilderness to become the hottest property in Australian music circles, picking up three Golden Guitar awards. Over a quarter of a century and 15 albums later, Kernaghan is now one of Australia’s most successful and loved country artists. He has notched up 37 number one hit songs, collected a total of 36 Golden Guitars and four ARIA awards, not to mention being named the “Hit Maker of the Decade” in both 2001 and 2011 after having more chart hits in Australia than any other country music artist in the world. Kasey Chambers has undoubtedly been one of the most influential women in country music over the last two decades. Over her career, Chambers has released eight solo albums, won 22 Golden Guitars and had a profound effect on country music, especially the rise of altcountry. Her dedication to country music was recognised earlier this year, when she was awarded the Golden Guitar Awards most prestigious Billy Ray Cyrus

Crossroads in the

VINES

US country legend Billy Ray Cyrus will headline the Crossroads in the Vines at Roche Estate on Saturday 24th March supported by an impressive cast of Australian country music royalty including Kasey Chambers, Lee Kernaghan, John Williamson, The McClymonts, Sara Storer, Adam Harvey and Beccy Cole. Returning for the first time in eighteen years, Billy Ray Cyrus is one of the country world’s biggest names, exploding the genre into the mainstream with the iconic hit ‘Achy Breaky Heart’. “Back in 1993 was when I kicked off my world tour in March in Australia, so now 25 years later it just kinda felt like the right thing to do at the right time!” said Billy Ray. “I love the fans there. They love their music, they love their football, they love the arts. It’s a great country with great people, and we love coming down there and playing!”

‘Make this your destination’ This is one of the Hunter Valley’s favourite Cellar Doors. Discover 18 acclaimed wines, relax on the deck or enjoy a meal at the Deck Café. 701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale NSW | Ph: 02 4930 7113 | gartelmann.com.au

thb 10 | MARCH 2018

The Viper Creek Band

Lee Kernaghan

gong, becoming the youngest inductee to the Australasian Country Music Roll of Renown. Kasey said she was looking forward to Crossroads in the Vines and the chance to share the bill with so many other great artists, “I’m looking forward to that; it’s kind of local for us so that’s a bonus and it’s a great place to play, it’ll be fun.” “I love playing festivals – it’s good because when you’ve finished your set, you get to go and watch everyone else play.” Country songstress Beccy Cole has delighted Australian listeners and concertgoers for more than twenty years, and the audience at Crossroads in the Vines are in for a treat! The Adelaide-born star’s glowing warmth, honeyed voice, bawdy sense of humour and perpetual smile have helped make Beccy one of the nation’s best-loved and most celebrated artists. Best known for an amazing live show and bringing a crowd to fever pitch, what many don’t know about Beccy is that she is also an accomplished comedienne and often has an audience roaring with laughter at her wicked brand of humour. Beccy is no stranger to the winner’s podium with nine Golden Guitars to her name (including four for Female Vocalist of the Year). She has also had multiple ARIA Top 10 Country and Top 40 Mainstream albums, a Top 10 DVD, three Gold-certified releases, and more than a dozen No. 1 Australian country singles, making her is one of Australia’s most successful singer-songwriters. Newcastle’s favourite country rock outfit, The Viper Creek Band, are a band that are going places. Their soaring popularity is due to their unique country rock sound, which music journalist Ross Clelland described as “polished, but with just a bit of red dust scuffed in.”

Kasey Chambers

Their debut album Kickin Up Dust debuted at number two on the ARIA Australian Country album chart and the first single from the album ‘Tonight Tonight’ debuted at number one on the Australian iTunes Country Singles chart. Their highly anticipated second album Just Press Play also debuted in the ARIA Top 10 and earned them a CMC Award nomination. Regulars at the Tamworth Country Music Festival and CMC Rocks, they have spent the majority of the last few years travelling and performing around Australia and internationally. They are no strangers to playing on the big stages, having played Tootsies World Famous Orchard Lounge in Nashville and toured Canada in 2016, where they were invited to play the Big Valley Jamboree with Blake Shelton, Dierks Bentley and Carrie Underwood. Loyal supporters of The Viper Creek Band should not miss their performance at Crossroads in the Vines as they have hinted that they are now working on their next album so may treat the crowd to some new songs that will be on the new album. For more information about Crossroads in the Vines or to purchase tickets visit www.crossroadsinthevines.com

“Largest beer range

Massive Wine Sale at The Garden Cellars $50 cases, $120 cases and $144 cases available throughout March.

in the valley!”

Come in and visit the ‘Tunnel of Beer’. Stocked to the brim with delicious brews from around the world.

alley Hunter V nter u Wine, H odka V y r e Distill beer and craft able ail v a tastings ! y il a d

THE GARDEN

CELLARS

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

11 | MARCH 2018 thb

Hunter Valley

Chocolate Company EST. 1999

A Festival Good Enough for

TWO PALETTES! Festival season kicks off in Morpeth on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th March with the Festival of Two Palettes – a celebration of the artist’s palette and our food palate. Visitors to the festival will get the opportunity to meet and chat with fourteen of Australia’s top traditional wildlife artists, many of whom have won International Art Awards in their specialist fields of painting. It is a unique opportunity to watch the artists at work at their easels. You will be amazed at just how quickly a vase of roses or an Australian country landscape emerges from a blank canvas. There will also be over 300 artworks on display to view over the weekend, with most available for purchase. Your food palate will also come alive at Morpeth Gourmet Foods with tastings of delicious sweet and savoury regional delights such as Bunna Banoo Olive Farm Honey, Dukkah and Olive Oils and Pukara Estate Balsamic Dressings, tapenades and mayonnaise. The festival is open from 10am to 5pm all weekend. For more information visit www.morpethgallery.com

Located in the heart of Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company has been a family owned and operated Hunter Valley gem for the last 17 years. Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience, with a tantalising range of premium hand-made chocolate and chocolate products plus more than 30 flavours of freshly made fudge!

Open 7 Days 9am – 5pm. Ph 4998 6999 Three Great Locations in Pokolbin: Twenty-3-Twenty – 2320 Broke Road Peterson House – Broke Road Hunter Valley Gardens – Shop 5, Broke Road

www.hvchocolate.com.au | admin@hvchocolate.com.au

Morpeth Antique Centre Discover 21 dealers

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

OPEN 10am – 5pm, Thursday to Sunday & most public holidays 175 Swan Street, Morpeth, Hunter Valley PH 02 4933 1407 E info@morpethgallery.com www.morpethantiquecentre.com

thb 12 | MARCH 2018

358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin tamburlaine.com.au

GET JIGGY at Harrigan's this St Patrick's Day!

Every year on 17th March, all around the world, the Irish and the Irishat-heart celebrate St Patrick’s Day. What originated as a religious feast day for the patron Saint of Ireland has become an international festival celebrating Irish culture with dancing, parades, iconic Irish foods and a whole lot of green! With live music and traditional dancing, surrounded by authentic Irish décor, beautiful gardens, vineyards and mountains, Harrigan’s Irish Pub is the perfect venue to celebrate St Pat’s day in the Hunter. But why party for one day, when you can party for the whole weekend! This year, Harrigan’s Irish Pub will be celebrating St Patrick’s Weekend on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th March! All weekend, Harrigan’s Irish Pub will have patrons celebrating like true Irishmen and women with $9 pints of Guinness, Kilkenny and Magners all weekend long. There will also be Irish bands, Irish dancers and a traditional pipe band performing each day, ensuring everyone gets in the St Paddy’s day spirit! Guests are encouraged to dress up in the traditional green colour that marks the special day, with plenty of giveaways on offer. The traditional Harrigan’s Australian-Irish Bistro will be serving all the old favourites including the famous Beef and Guinness Pie, Fish and Chips and a few special Irish dishes to get into the spirit of the day. Bookings are recommended by calling Harrigan’s on 4998 4300

MARCH SPECIAL Seduction (sweet Chardonnay) & Indulgence (sweet Shiraz)

Buy two and get a third free!!!

Hunter Valley

Trail Rides for Beginners and Experienced Riders Join us on Easter Sunday for a Teddy Bears Picnic & Easter Egg Hunt! Pony Rides • Spectacular Valley Views • Weddings on Horseback Picnics • BBQ’s • Breakfast Rides • Family Rides • Personalised Rides Hiking & Mountain Bike Trails • Sunset Rides • Kangaroos Sulky Rides • Tractor Hay Rides to Feed the Animals! Kangaroo and Native Wildlife Spotting at Night Time. Leaves at Sunset. Pedal Go Karts for ages 5 - 99 years. Lots of fun!

There’s only one Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures!

For Bookings Phone Margaret on 4930 7111 or 0417 233 008 Stay & play at Hilltop, 288 Talga Road, Lovedale

FINALIST

of the Hunter Region Business Excellence Awards 2016

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

2 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin Open 7 days 10am - 4pm • Phone 4991 5456 www.kelmanvineyard.com.au

13 | MARCH 2018 thb

Sabor's St. Honore

Chocoholics

GUIDE

However, if you prefer your chocolate in a cocktail glass than on a plate, then be sure to get your hands on a bottle of Chocolate Vodka from Hunter Distillery. This fantastic blend of Hunter Distillery’s awardwinning Premium Organic Vodka with intense dark chocolate has created a spirit that has a bitter dark chocolate aroma and a long bitter chocolate taste with a notable spirit finish – perfect for delicious chocolate martinis! Of course, we couldn’t possibly discuss getting your chocolate fix in the Hunter Valley without mentioning Hunter Valley Chocolate Co. For almost 20 years, they have been creating the finest chocolate products The Hunter Valley loves its wine, but it also loves chocolate in all forms – using only the highest quality Belgian or Swiss couverture chocolate, blocks, bars, eggs, cakes, cocktails and of course, as the star of a delicious together with Australian dried fruits and nuts and distilled pure fruit oil dessert. infusions. While you might be visiting the Hunter Valley to enjoy the wine, Hunter Valley Chocolate Co. has an amazing range of handcrafted you are also in the right place if you want to treat yourself to a products that are sure to cater to every taste bud from their dark, milk chocolate dessert or two, as you would be hard-pushed to find a dining and white buttons and blocks, which are a staple of the range, through establishment which doesn’t include a chocolate delight on their menu. to their famous chilli chocolate products. All their delectable chocolate We have done the hard work for you and found a few of our products are available at their “Twenty-3-Twenty” Chocolate and Fudge favourite chocolate desserts that you must try while in the Hunter Valley! Factory on Broke Road and their retail outlets at Hunter Valley Gardens • Sabor - Sabor's St. Honore - Mud cake base, with a layer of puff pastry and Peterson House. with crushed hazelnuts then crème patissiere topped with a trio of profiteroles filled with double chocolate, nutty caramel & pistachio Verandah Restaurant's Signature Chocolate Soufflé. Image by Brent Leggett chocolate • Elements - Gateau au Fromage et Chocolat Blanc & Framboise (white chocolate & raspberry cheesecake) • RidgeView Restaurant - RidgeView Signature Belgian Chocolate Fondant to share with pistachio praline, vanilla bean ice cream and fresh strawberries • The Cellar Restaurant – Seven Layer Chocolate Gateau with cappuccino ice cream • Verandah Restaurant - Verandah’s Signature Chocolate Soufflé served with Baileys and almond ice cream • Matilda Bay Brewhouse – Belgian Chocolate, Caramel Macadamia Brownie and White Chocolate Semifreddo with raspberry coulis • Buon Cibo – Death by Chocolate – Chocolate marquis with crème anglaise, chocolate crumble, hazelnut gelato, chocolate ganache and fresh berries

TO WINE COUNTRY

thb 14 | MARCH 2018

Open all Easter Long Weekend except Good Friday

For an altogether sweet experience, a visit to Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar 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 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 Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar!

LOCATED At Lambloch Estate, 2342 Broke Rd, Pokolbin • PH 1300 958 939 Open Thurs & Fri 10am - 4.30pm, Saturday 10am - 5.30pm, Sun & Mon 10am - 4.30pm

www.saborinthehunter.com.au

15 | MARCH 2018 thb

Located in the heart of the Hunter and at the gateway to the Hunter Valley vineyards, Kurri Kurri has always been a thoroughfare for tourists exploring the surrounding region. However, the advent of the Kurri Kurri

Nostalgia Festival in 2004 has helped put the town on the tourist map as a destination in itself. Now in its 18th year, the celebration of all things 1950’s and 60’s attracts more than 30,000 people from across Australia to Kurri Kurri for the three-day event. The event is a fun and frivolous step back in time to a bygone era, which has established itself as one of the Hunter’s premier festivals. Featuring all things rock ‘n’ roll, it is a showcase of classic cars, music, fashion and dancing across a range of free and ticketed events and a good old-fashioned street party. This year’s festival will run from March 23-25 and has a stellar program of events in store. Kick up your heels on the Friday with a Family Fun Night at Rotary Park from 5pm to 8pm. The perfect way to launch into the event, it will include an evening of rock and roll with Jumpin’ Jukebox and the chance to pick up a few fancy new dance steps as Eagle Rocks demonstrate their skills on the dance floor. The action will pick up a beat over the weekend, with non-stop music and free entertainment in the park each day from 8am to 4pm. Saturday will feature performances from the likes of Sass & the Boss, Eureka Tai Kwon Do, and the Newcastle 50s Rock N Roll and Sydney Swing Katz dance groups, while Sunday will see Mr James Band, Tony Hunt (Roy Orbison tribute) and the All Shook Up Dance Studio take to the stage. Get into the spirit of the 1950s by dressing up in your best retro or vintage gear. On both Saturday and Sunday, there will be great prizes on offer for the Best Dressed in four categories; Traditional, Miss Modern Day, Couples and Juniors. Shannon’s Show and Shine is a must-see for car lovers, with around 500 classic cars and hot rods lining Lang and Barton streets throughout

OPEN FOR TASTINGS AND SALES

7 Days, 10am - 5pm 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley PH (02) 4998 6737 • info@hunterdistillery.com.au www.hunterdistillery.com.au thb 16 | MARCH 2018

the weekend as their owners compete for the title of the most immaculately maintained and presented vehicle. Ensuring there is something for everyone across the weekend, an impressive Retro Market Place will be set up in Rotary park showcasing a range of retro and vintage market stalls from across Australia, featuring themed merchandise, vintage clothing, rock n roll memorabilia, collectables and plenty of items for car enthusiasts, the kids and the young at heart. A range of ticketed events will also be held throughout the festival, with everything from a retro high tea and burlesque competition to a high school prom dinner dance and Rock N Roll Express twilight steam train ride with onboard entertainment from Richmond Vale. For more information and to view the 2018 official program for the festival visit www.kurrikurrinostalgiafestival.com.au

Hunter Valley

Reflections Day Spa COUPLES DELIGHT PACKAGE

2 x 50 min Relaxation Massages, 2 x ExpressFacials, 2 x Foot Massages, Finish with wine and chocolates.

$300 (normally $428) *T&C Apply

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

OPEN Wed - Sun PH 4930 9006 • www.reflectionsdayspa.com.au

Resonance Crystal Healing® Located at Calais Estate.

Half-day Courses and Healing Services also available at Nulkaba 2325

Angel Card Psychic Readings Available for groups in-room ( at your hotel) or one-on-one at Resonance Crystal Healing in Nulkaba Pricing for groups depends on numbers, as this affects time per reading. Please call to check. Personal readings at Nulkaba are $50 for 40 minutes

Kim Murray A.I., (HH) Dip. Arom., C.H., Ad. C.H.,HMH

www.resonancecrystalhealing.com.au resonancecrystalhealing@yahoo.com.au

0412 972 289

On the verandah or inside by the ﬁreplace, the Verandah Restaurant is the ultimate in dining for those who enjoy great contemporary dining served in a tapas style. Open 7 Days for Lunch, Thursday - Sunday for Dinner.

www.verandahrestaurant.com.au 17 | MARCH 2018 thb

AT THE MARKETS

Handcrafted Wooden Animals WORDS Michelle Meehan

It’s not hard to see what drives Danielle Williams. From the long list of “pets” that live with her family on their 100-acre property at Lambs Valley, to the wooden animal products she creates to sell at the markets under the banner of Dan’s Wooden Menagerie, it’s clear Danielle is passionate about creatures of all shapes and sizes. “I have owned animals my entire life and currently have pigs, sheep, cows, goats, horses, poultry, birds, dogs and cats on 100 acres, and they are all pets. I have rescue cats and just adore animals great and small,” she said. “We first started with the idea (for Dan’s Wooden Menagerie) a couple of years ago before we moved from the Hawkesbury up to the Hunter Valley. “We make handcrafted wooden animals, which all have some type of purpose. “We have phone holders, key holders, bottle openers with cap receptacle, door stoppers, remote control caddies, serviette holders, paper towel holders, bookends and tablet/book stands.” Inspired in her designs by both her own animals and the requests of customers, Danielle sells her handcrafted creations online and since December last year has also been a regular stallholder at the Handmade in the Hunter Markets. “Most of my inspirations started from our live menagerie, and now many of our inspirations are from the requests and suggestions from customers, such as the wombat and many of the dogs,” she said. “I particularly love creating the dogs because there are so many different breeds with a range of markings and head shapes, so creating new templates for them is not only challenging but exciting. “I also love doing the special orders from people and having them send me pictures of their beloved pets so that I can recreate them in whatever product they would like them in.” Keep up to date with the latest additions to the range on Dan’s Wooden Menagerie Facebook page, or check out the cute little critters in person at the Handmade in the Hunter Market this month, which will be held at Kevin Sobels Wines from 9am to 3pm on March 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31.

Located at Gartelmann Wines. The Deck Café Lovedale provides a diverse and delightful menu complemented by Gartelmann Wines and Piazza Doro Coﬀee. Open 7 Days for Breakfast and Lunch. Mon to Fri 8.30am till 3.30pm, Sat and Sun 8am till 3.30pm.

www.deckcafelovedale.com.au

P OT T E R S H U N T E R VA L L E Y

H O T E L . B R E W E R Y. R E S O R T

Brasserie | Bar | Brewery

Accommodation Events | Functions | Weddings

WINE COUNTRY DRIVE NULKABA

Ph (02) 4991 7922 | www.pottershbr.com.au

thb 18 | MARCH 2018

Pete Murray

a day on the green performance an unforgettable jam-packed day of entertainment. James Blunt first captured the world’s attention in 2005 with his multi-platinum debut album Back to Bedlam, featuring its history-making number one classic single ‘You’re Beautiful’. The British tunesmith has since become one of the most popular singersongwriters of the modern era, with more than 20 million albums and 12 million singles sold worldwide. He has also been the recipient of a remarkable range of top honours, including five Grammy Award nominations, two BRIT awards, two Ivor Novello Awards (honouring British music and songwriters), and a host of MTV Awards. Since his first visit to Australia thirteen years ago, James Blunt has kept audiences spellbound with his heartfelt poignancy fused with touches of his classic, self-deprecating sense of humour. At a day on the green, he will be performing songs from his latest albums plus his incredible catalogue of hits including ‘Bartender’, ‘Goodbye My Lover’, ‘Carry You Home’, ‘No Bravery’, ‘1973’, ‘Wisemen’, ‘Stay The Night’ and ‘Bonfire Heart’. Byron Bay singer-songwriter and one of Australia’s most-loved musicians, Pete Murray released his sixth studio album Camacho in 2017, debuting at number three on the ARIA chart. In 2003 Pete released his breakthrough record Feeler, featuring hit single ‘So Beautiful’, which topped the Aussie charts and went on to sell more than 450,000 copies and earn him 12 ARIA Award nominations. With more than one million album sales to his name, Pete Murray has remained one of Australia’s hottest and most in-demand touring properties, repeatedly enjoying sold-out tours across the country and abroad. ▶

A DAY ON THE

GREEN

British singer-songwriter James Blunt returns to Australia next month, performing at a day on the green for the first time as part of his The Afterlove tour. He will be joined at Bimbadgen on March 10th by Pete Murray, Busby Marou, Alex Lloyd and Karise Eden, making this

19 | MARCH 2018 thb

(continued) Busby Marou is Rockhampton duo Thomas Busby and Jeremy Marou. Their debut self-titled album was certified ARIA Gold in Australia in July 2014, while their follow-up album Farewell Fitzroy debuted at number five on the album chart. Postcards From The Shell House is their first ARIA number one album. Their meaningful lyrics, melodic guitar riffs and delightful harmonies have seen them win over fans and critics alike. Alex Lloyd won a legion of fans and critical acclaim with his debut album, 1997’s Black The Sun. He followed this with 2001’s Watching Angels Mend, featuring his breakout hit, ‘Amazing’, which topped triple j’s Hottest 100 and won APRA’s Song of the Year. The multi ARIA Awardwinner continued his run of hits with ‘Green’, ‘Coming Home’, ‘1000 Miles’, ‘Everybody’s Laughing’ and ‘Never Meant To Fail’. 2016 saw the release of Alex’s seventh studio album, Acoustica, featuring stripped back re-recordings of some of his much-loved classics. Karise Eden was launched into the national spotlight in 2012 when she won Australia’s first series of The Voice, blowing away the judges and audiences with her powerful and raw voice. Breaking sales and chart records, Karise became the first artist since The Beatles to have four songs in the ARIA Top 5 singles chart. Her debut album, My Journey, entered the Australian charts at number one, and the follow-up album, 2014’s Things I’ve Done, hit number five. For more information or to purchase tickets to a day on the green visit www.adayonthegreen.com.au James Blunt

Karise Eden

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 or hire car, 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 or 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

Shop 3, Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village Phone 4998 6888 • Open 7 Days

thb 20 | MARCH 2018

Wine Glass Gallery Because great wine deserves a great wine glass

• Largest range of wine glasses in the Hunter Valley • Original artworks - all well priced • Amazing selection of colourful glass platters, vases and ornaments • Amusing collector teapots • Jewellery, seasonal scarves and handbags • Australian and Hunter Valley T-shirts and souvenirs Over 3,000 colourful eclectic products to choose from... Come and enjoy a friendly Hunter Valley Experience!

All in one wedding venue Magniﬁcent views All ceremonies welcome Numerous photo opportuni�es BYO beverages Exclusive catering P 0447 923 888 (Estate Manager)

Inspec�ons welcome, phone us today!

842 Lovedale Road, Lovedale lovedaleweddings@gmail.com www.lovedaleweddingchapel.com.au #lovedaleweddingchapel /LovedaleWeddingChapel

A.W.E TOURS

Hunter Valley Wine & Brewery Tour Watagan Mountain Eco Tour Newcastle, Central Coast & Port Stephens Coastal Tour Private Luxury Transfer Service Tours can be personalised to suit your tastes Direct Accommodation Pick up/Drop off

VENTURE BEYOND THE USUAL TOURIST TRAILS With Adventure, Wine & Eco Tours you can experience the very best the region has to offer.

Contact Rob on 0438 564 422 • www.awetours.com.au

Hunter Valley Resort Corner Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin (02) 49987777 sales@HunterResort.com.au www.HunterResort.com.au

21 | MARCH 2018 thb

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 winemaking is not only an art but also a science. While the actual process of winemaking 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 experience a whole year of winemaking condensed into a short 15-minute visual presentation at the 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. After the presentation, you are 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 four Hunter 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 the wine. The 30-minute wine education experience is just $30 per person, with sessions running at 10am 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 you 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 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 booking is essential.

thb 22 | MARCH 2018

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

DON'T JUDGE A Bottle by its Label! (or its closure for that matter) They say you should never judge a book by its cover and I try to apply that same rule to wine, by not judging a wine by its packaging. It’s difficult, and I still find myself jumping to conclusions and forming opinions long before I get that first sip into my mouth! One of the many questions I hear asked at wine tasting sessions is “What do you think of screw caps?” The term ‘’screw caps’’ (or Stelvin closure) sounds so cheap, and for a while, I was very undecided about them - after all, fizzy drinks come with screw caps, and conditioning, therefore, led me to believe that all wine with ‘’screw caps’’ must be cheaply made. The reality is they work very well as an alternative to cork, but to me, real cork gives the impression of quality, an appreciation for tradition and a sense of continuity. Not to mention that opening a bottle of wine with a cork-screw is far more impressive and romantic. But the facts speak for themselves. Real cork has the potential to cause off-flavours in a wine bottle - very rarely, of course. But these incidences gave rise to new ideas in improved closures. Stelvin closures work very well and are being used as wine bottle closures throughout the new world wine regions of Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and the Americas and on many more bottlings worldwide. And then we have the wine label, which to me (rightly or wrongly) has always signalled quality. That expensive and clean (even conservative) looking label tells me the wine is of good quality. Again, it’s that traditional, tried-and-true image. Whenever I see careless and even goofy looking labels, I instantly judge the wine as being inferior and more about marketing than quality.

WORDS Quentin von Essen

Let’s face it, who is going to take a wine with the name ‘Goats do roam in Villages’ seriously? But in fact, this wine is one of South Africa’s best known and hottest selling wines from renowned wine producer Fairview wines (circa. 1693) located in the famous Paarl region of the Western Cape and owned and run by Charles Back who also owns The Goats do Roam Wine Company. Other labels from the same winemaker include ‘’Bored Doe’’ and ‘’Goat-Roti’’. How about Cat’s Pee on a Gooseberry Bush - a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand producer Cooper’s Creek which has sold well throughout the world. How about Fat Bastard Wines (France), Mad Housewife (California), Big Ass Red Table Wine from Milano Winery, also in California, and The Ball Buster from Tait Wines in the Barossa, South Australia (wine that is big, rich and full of flavour)? And what about ‘The Bogan’? A wine from Kaesler Vineyard in the Barossa Valley - from a block of Shiraz planted in 1899 and an unmistakable synergy between Barossa Shiraz and good quality American oak. I also could not help but notice that they also have a wonderful Limited Release Shiraz called Old Bastard. While they may be odd names, they are easy-to-remember and recall. So weird they may be, but is this considered good marketing? So, I now realise that it is a whole new world out there and I am determined to overcome any former opinions and reserve my judgments until my taste buds have first had the chance to be involved in the decision making.

23 | MARCH 2018 thb

From

CONVICTS to

CHARDONNAY

thb 24 | MARCH 2018

Wollombi

By the end of the decade, plantings had expanded from 200 acres to approximately 500 acres and by 1876, land planted with vine had exceeded 1800 acres. By the 1860’s, plantings of vineyards began to move from the fertile alluvial plains along the Hunter River towards the foothills of the Over 30,000 years ago, the land we now know as the Hunter Valley was inhabited by the Wonnarua tribe of Aboriginal Australians along with the Brokenback range near Pokolbin and Rothbury (Lovedale), where many of the most well-established and highly regarded vineyards of the Hunter Awakabal tribe to the south and the Worimi tribe to the north, which remain today. includes eastern Port Stephens and Great Lakes regions of coastal NSW. From these humble beginnings, the Hunter Valley flourished, with Together, these three tribes developed a trading route between the several families establishing vineyards in the area. The Wilkinson, Tyrrell, Sydney area and the Hunter (Coquun) Valley – exchanging goods and Tulloch, Drayton and McGuigan family’s winemaking history can all be performing ceremonies along the way. traced to the mid to late 19th century, as can the viticultural pursuits of Captain Cook ignored the Hunter Valley region on his travels along Dr Henry Lindeman. the Australian coast in the late 1700’s. It was only when a British naval After World War I, many returning soldiers were given land grants in officer by the name of Lieutenant John Shortland, came upon the Hunter Valley by chance during a search for escaped convicts that the region was the Hunter Valley, but the Great Depression and devastating hail storms identified for its valuable source of timber to repair ships and coal to fuel between 1929-30 caused many of these new landowners to abandon their vineyards. Some of the land was bought up by the larger and more the steamship trade coming out of Sydney. established landowners at the time, who would later become driving However, it was four years after this first discovery and only when forces behind the Hunter Valley’s wine industry. Sydney Cove started experiencing food, fuel and material shortages The 1950’s and 1960’s saw consumer taste shift toward drier styles that an expedition headed by Lieutenant Colonel Paterson was sent to of wine. As a result, the 1960’s saw a dramatic increase in the number of the region to confirm Lieutenant John Shortland’s findings. The region plantings of vine including red wine varietals and the reintroduction of was named after Governor John Hunter, and a penal colony was soon Cabernet Sauvignon to the Hunter Valley. established for the more difficult convicts of Sydney Cove, who served The year 1971 saw the first commercial bottling of Chardonnay – an their time cutting timber and mining coal for Sydney Cove. event that sparked the beginning of the Australian Chardonnay craze. By In 1820, the first overland route from Windsor to Singleton, Putty 1976, plantings in the Hunter Valley had grown to exceed 10,000 acres, Road, was established – which to this day remains a short-cut for and despite a small reduction during the recession of the 1980’s, the travellers from western Sydney to the Hunter Valley. What followed was the construction of the Great North Road and the Australian wine boom of the 1990’s pushed plantings even further over first road linking Sydney and Newcastle – crossing the Hawkesbury River 11,000 acres. Today, the Hunter Valley remains Australia’s oldest wine producing at Wiseman’s Ferry. Built by convicts between 1826 and 1836, visitors can still see many of the original convict-built features when travelling en region and one of Australia’s most recognisable and popular regions for tourism with over 150 wineries in the Hunter. route to Wollombi. The convenience of road transport quickly opened up the Hunter Valley to new settlers, who found that the sandy banks of the river flats were suitable for many types of agriculture. With the arrival of the free settlers, agricultural and pastoral activities rapidly grew to the point where it equalled coal mining and timber in importance. By the early 1820’s, approximately 20 acres of vineyards had been planted on the northern banks of the Hunter River between Maitland and Singleton by early winemaking pioneers such as George Wyndham, James King and William Kelman. The first major planting in the Hunter Valley took place in the early 1830’s when James Busby – an amateur viticulturalist returned to New South Wales after travelling throughout Europe and South Africa, collecting cuttings from over 500 vineyards. Some of these cuttings were sent to the newly established Royal Botanical Gardens in Sydney and the rest planted at the family estate of Kirkton situated between the towns of Branxton and Singleton.

25 | MARCH 2018 thb

CHARDONNAY Adaptable, Versatile and Outstanding! WORDS Quentin von Essen Chardonnay, the noble, green-skinned grape, can trace its 1000-year heritage back to the revered vineyards of Burgundy and the medieval village of Chardonnay, in the Mâconnais wine growing region of southern Burgundy. Today, it 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 began its meteoric rise to fame in the late seventies and eighties when it was the “in wine” of the time. Fruit-forward, 'sunshinein-a-bottle' became synonymous with Australian wine. Today, it is hard to think of Australian wine without thinking of Australian Chardonnay. It's a variety that has enjoyed the market highs and withstood the lows with a remarkable level of resilience and continues to hold a special place in the heart of Australian wine lovers throughout the world. 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, causing Chardonnay sales to boom in the 80’s and 90’s. Such was

SMART CASUAL DINING FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE WEDDINGS | EVENTS | PRIVATE FUNCTIONS AT COCKFIGHTERS GHOST VINEYARD 576 DE BEYERS ROAD, POKOLBIN PH: 4998 7776| info@huntersquarter.com.au www.huntersquarter.com.au OPEN LUNCH THURS - SUN. DINNER THURS, FRI, SAT & MON.

thb 26 | MARCH 2018

Pokolbin Village Accommodation • Botanical Elixir General Store • Pokolbin Bottle Shop Chocolate and Jam Company • Smelly Cheese Shop Buon Cibo Restaurant • Tempt and Vixen Giftware

2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin 2320 www.pokolbinvillage.com.au

the demand for Australian Chardonnay that the area of Chardonnay vines increased more than fivefold during this period so that in the 1990’s Chardonnay became Australia’s most planted white wine grape variety and now accounts for more than half of Australia’s white wine production. Chardonnay is now grown in every wine region in Australia - from the humidity of the Hunter Valley to the cool crispness of the Yarra Valley, Adelaide Hills and Tasmania to the warmer regions of Margaret River and Barossa Valley. It is ideally suited to Australian conditions and reflects a taste of place wherever it's grown. 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 wine in a particularly style that he or she considered desirable. This was the case when the market was dominated by the broader, buttery and toastier styles of wines that also had strong secondary characters. These wines were big, rich and full-bodied with most not lasting more than a few years. You can have too much of a good thing though, and this peak in popularity in the late 1980’s and early 1990's gave way to a change in tastes and increased competition. The market turned to red wine, and Chardonnay consumers became disenfranchised by the buttery taste and high level of oak used in these wines. Chardonnay sales declined as consumer tastes turned towards lighter wines such as Pinot Grigio and the crisp cool-climate Sauvignon Blancs. But things change. Tastes change, fashion changes and Chardonnay changes! In recent years, we have witnessed the most remarkable change in premium Australian Chardonnay. Gone are the days of the fat, golden, oak-lavished style with Chardonnay making a comeback with styles that are lighter, more elegant and of course with a little less oak.

The result is a wine that is brighter and fresher, with greater length and intensity, subtler and fruit-driven – something the golden oldies often lacked. 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. Where to now for Australian Chardonnay? Presently, Chardonnay in Australia is as popular as it as ever been and it’s not showing any sign of waning. Demand continues for this popular wine which has done well to weather the onslaught of popular Sauvignon Blanc and the rapid surge of Pinot Gris/Grigio. The wine industry is also seeing a new generation of winemakers who are bringing experience, expertise, experimentation and bold ideas that are shaking up the Australian Chardonnay landscape and bringing new, exciting Chardonnays onto the market.

Introducing the Hunter Valley's the perfect wine country dining experience executive chef jean marc-pollet has created a menu driven by the fusion of classic French cuisine with local, seasonal Australian produce including produce from his private farm. situated in the hub of hunter valley wine country, éléments is open 7 days for café lunch and a-la-carte dinner.

Corner Broke & Mcdonalds Rd’s, Pokolbin | PH 4998-2000

The Lad y in

Pin k

...

POKOL B IN E STATE VIN EYARD

Tempranillo | Nebbiolo | Sangiovese | Nebbiolo Rosé Get your taste for adventure today at ...Pokolbin Estate. Winery – 2017 James Halliday Australian Wine Companion

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

27 | MARCH 2018 thb

TO SINGLETON

< 15KM >

PUTTY RD

Hunter Dis�llery

i i

HV Cheese

De Beyers Rd

e r t s Road

DRIV NTRY OU C E Fletcher St

POKOLBIN2 (SOUTH)

Visitor Information

HV Reﬂec�ons Day Spa

The Deck Café

30KM >

Hunter Beer Co.

Fleming St

TO NEWCASTLE

Lovedale Wedding Chapel and Recep�on

LOVEDALE

d oa sR Olsen Road

n do Lon

Lodge Road

Po�ers Hotel

i Gartelmann Wines

The Brickworks Brasserie

Lomas Lane

Australian Alpaca Barn

MORPETH TO BRANXTON MAITLAND MORPETH

Brickmans Lane

Capercaillie Wines

Londons Rd

Morpeth An�que Centre

De Beyers Road

Halls Rd

Roche Estate ad Ro Oishii Japanese-Thai rs e Restaurant ey

N WI

Tamburlaine Organic Wines Pokolbin Estate

Campbells Lne

Handmade in the Hunter Markets at Kevin Sobels Wines

St Swan

Hunters Quarter Restaurant

BROKE ROAD

E IV DR

Harrigans Irish Pub

Australian Alpaca Barn

HV Chocolate Co.

Pokolbin Village

HV Chocolate Co. Balloon Alo� Mee�ng Point

Green Lane

LOVEDA

Tho mp Factory son Golden ’s R d Door Elysia

Elements

Thirsty Pale�e Wine & Art

Wilderness Road

Talga Road

HV Horseriding and Adventures

TO WINE COUNTRY DRIVE

ER HUNTER RIV TO MORPETH RD EAST MAITLAND

D e Beyers Road

Ekerts Road

BROKE ROAD

Sabor in the Hunter

The Verandah Restaurant

Palmers Lane

OU NT R

Emma’s Co�age Vineyard

Fleet St

Drinan St

BROKE

A Li�le Bit of Italy in Broke

Gillards Road Constable Estate

MCDONALDS ROAD

ALE RD

RD KE BRO The Cellar Restaurant The Garden Cellars

HV Chocolate Co.

D HWY

TO MAITLAND

LOVEDALE ROAD

TO BLUE MOUNTAINS

B lackburn

NEW ENGLAN

Tuckers Lane

BRANXTON

am Ad

M ILL BR

Wine Glass Gallery

TO BRANXTON

C NE

Australian Alpaca Barn

asy

Palmers Lane

d oa sR

Road rth No

Coulso nR

Old

Hunter Valley Gardens HVG Shopping Village

Deasys Road

TO SINGLETON

HERMITAGE ROAD

Hermitage Road Cellars

Ma�lda Bay Brewhouse

Hunter Valley Wine Theatre Hunter Valley Wine School

POKOLBIN1 (NORTH)

Sta�on St

Lan

Tin�lla Estate

Old No rth Ro

Sweetwater Road

Ro ad

DR IV

Mistle to e

k Hill Rd Ironbar

rth

C O UNTRY

iHop Stop

RidgeView Wines and Restaurant

ST BRIDGE

Thompsons’s Rd

TO SINGLETON

CLIFF ST

Spa/Health Retreat

4 Elderslie Rd

Markets

Gourmet Produce

Shopping

Cellar Door

Restaurant

MAP NOT TO SCALE

WI NE Tan k St

oad Camp R

N HU R TE

AY W SS E PR EX

k Rd Par onix Phe

O LE R

A N

e Lan rs ajo

McCarthy Rd

NG SSI RO C S NE

KM < 30 D A RO

X 7

9 10

Baumé Café, Restaurant & Bar N8 Elements K10 Harrigans Irish Pub L9 Hunters Quarter M9 Ma�lda Bay Brewhouse F5 Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen O8 Oishii Japanese Thai L11 The Brickworks Brasserie (Potters Hotel) N16 RidgeView Restaurant B7 Sabor in the Hunter K13 The Cellar Restaurant K10

RESTAURANTS + CAFÉS

Str ee t

Pokolbin Estate M10 HV Cheese Factory L10 HV Chocolate Co. K10/K13/K14

GOURMET PRODUCE

The Deck Café F18 The Verandah Restaurant I13

adee n Rd

Tin�lla Estate E5 The Garden Cellars K10 Thirsty Pale�e Wine F16

d ar Ced C r e e k R

Ke nd all

TO SYDNEY M1 PACIFIC MOTORWAY

Handmade in the Hunter Markets K12

MARKETS

Australian Alpaca Barn K9/K10 Australian Alpaca Barn (Morpeth) B19 Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village K10 Morpeth An�que Centre (Morpeth) C18 Pokolbin Village K11 The Garden Cellars K10 Wine Glass Gallery K10

SHOPS

Balloon Alo� (Pickup Point) K14 Cessnock Regional Art Gallery Q17 Golden Door Health Retreat & Spa L9 Hunter Beer Co. N16 HV Horseriding & Adventures D17 Hunter Valley Gardens K10 HV Reﬂec�ons Day Spa H17 HV Wine Theatre F5 HV Wine School F5 iHop HV stop i Thirsty Pale�e Art Workshops F16

ACTIVITIES

TO QUORROBOLONG

Yummy Easter chocolate available at HV Chocolate Co.! (K10/K13/K14)

CESSNOCK

ABERDARE ROAD

TO ABERMAIN KURRI KURRI MAITLAND NEWCASTLE

Ben Ean N8 Capercaillie Wines L16 Constable Estate J9 Emma’s Co�age Vineyard G14 Gartelmann Wines F18 Hermitage Road Cellars F5 Hunter Dis�llery K6 Ivanhoe Wines P8 Kelman Vineyard Q14 Pokolbin Estate M10 RidgeView Wines B7 Tamburlaine Organic Wines M10

PAY

CELLAR DOORS

Bimb

D ER AL D AN

Narone Creek Rd

ht R

AD RO

Cessnock Regional Art Gallery

OAD MAITLAND R

GREAT NORTH ROAD TO SYDNEY VIA PEATS RIDGE

CDONALDS RD WOLLOMBI ROAD

M ou

nt B rig

L OL

MOUNT VIEW ROAD

Kelman Vineyard

AL L

NULKABA

et tre tS en c n St Vin rwi Da

and

MOUNTVIEW

Mount View Rd

Marrowbone Road

Kerlew Street

l ber Cum

24.5K M>

Ivanhoe Wines

OAKEY CREEK ROAD

O’Connors Road

WOLLOMBI

It’s time for a Teddy Bear’s Picnic at Hilltop! (D17)

Get Artistic at Thirsty Pale�e Wine’s Art Classes (F16)

Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen

Ben Ean Baumé Café, Restaurant & Bar

<2 4.5 K

O P

COMING UP 1 + 7 + 14 + 21 & 28

HANDMADE IN THE HUNTER MARKETS at Kevin Sobels Wines

POLO IN THE VINES at Dark Horse Vineyard

Dark Horse Vineyard in Lovedale is proud to be hosting the inaugural Polo in the Vines, the newest addition to the popular Urban Polo series. If you haven’t witnessed a game of Polo before, here is your chance to experience the thundering of hooves and see what all the fuss is all about! It isn’t all about the Polo, however, as internationally renowned hatted chef Guillaume Brahimi will be putting the focus onto the food, offering those who purchase tickets for the VIP dining experience an amazing culinary experience fused with matching wines presented by local sommeliers. Only a limited number of VIP tickets are available, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy the event in an intimate environment and the opportunity to meet the winemakers behind the premium Dark Horse label. For those looking for a more casual polo experience, you can enjoy the day with friends and family from the comfort of the Vineyard Polo Lounge. There will be tunes from the resident band and DJ throughout the day, Fashion on the Field, stomping of the divots and plenty of delicious food and local beverages for sale at the bar. For more information visit www.polointhevines.com.au

thb 30 | MARCH 2018

April 8

7&8

27 - 29

A LITTLE BIT OF ITALY IN BROKE throughout Broke

One of the Hunter’s favourite annual events, A Little Bit of Italy in Broke is back again for the 13th year. This Italian food, wine, festivities and fun-filled long weekend ensures that every thirst is quenched and every stomach filled. Meet local Broke Fordwich growers, makers, chefs and artisans, relax amongst the vines and olive groves – why not just stay the whole weekend? Dine on pizza, pasta, antipasto, bruschetta, gelato, espresso or panini; sip on Sangiovese, Chardonnay, Shiraz; take a cooking classes, workshop or demonstration; savour olive oil and olive tastings in the grove; challenge a friend to a game of bocce or giant Jenga to the backdrop of Yellow Rock or relax to live tunes from the accordion or classical guitar. Events for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as numerous others running the whole day will quench your thirst or fill your stomach! Visit a couple of venues or visit all 11, use the event program to map your weekend. Most of the events will be held 10am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday. For more information visit www.italyinbroke.com.au

CESSNOCK STOMP Vincent Street, Cessnock

Vincent Street will be a hive of activity once again with the third annual Cessnock Stomp Festival! The Cessnock Stomp Festival is a FREE event for all the family, offering a slightly quirky take on entertainment, lifestyle, fun, food and wine. This year’s expanded program gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy a feast of beautiful food and wine from the Hunter Valley, an eclectic range of arts and crafts markets, many different offerings from local businesses, an Indulgence experience and Grape Stomping fun. No other event stops traffic like STOMP does and with in excess of 10,000 in attendance each year Cessnock STOMP Festival is the place to be to sample the best wine, food, fun and stomp grapes – all in one place! So, get your friends and family together to kick back in country style for a day of revelry with fine local food, wine and music. Some events are tickets. For more information visit www.cessnockstomp.com

11 - 15

11 TUFF TRUCK CHALLENGE at Milbrodale

WOLLOMBI VILLAGE MARKETS at Wollombi Village

The Tough Dog Tuff Truck Challenge is a three-day, hard as they come, 4WD competition event held at Milbrodale, just a short drive from Pokolbin.

THE GUM BALL

at Dashville, Lower Belford The Gum Ball was first held in Dashville back in 2015, and has grown into one of the most popular and anticipated music events on the Hunter Valley calendar. The festival is located in the secluded bush at Belford, The Gum Ball kicks off on a Friday afternoon and rolls all the way through to Sunday. Unchanged from previous years, it's still camping, BYO, very family friendly, one artist at a time on the main stage, with plenty of things to see and do. With an impressive roster of international and Australian acts, from Remi and The Bamboos to The Cribs, Butterfingers, The Creepshow and Ben Salter – The Gum Ball shapes up as a real musical feast for discerning listeners This year’s Gum Ball looks set to be more popular than ever, with early bird tickets selling out in record time. For more information or to purchase tickets head to www.dashvlle.com.au The event is gruelling and enduring and provides a real test for competing teams as they push themselves and their vehicles to the absolute limit. Boulders, rock, mud, giant tyres, deep holes and ruts make up the terrain that competitors must conquer in the hope of taking out the annual perpetual Tuff Truck trophy. With up to 8 of the stages running at the same time, there’s not a lot of time for spectators to get bored, so even the most ardent fan will have plenty to keep them happy. For more information visit www.tufftruck.com.au

119 Mcdonalds Road, Pokolbin, NSW 2320 now open

at lindemans ben ean winery

FR E SH FO O D ,

LOC A LLY S OU RC E D IN GR ED IEN T S

É Phone: PH O N E : 4993 4 9 9 3 3705 3700 baume@benean.com.au ADDRESS: 119 MCDONALDS RD, POKOLBIN,NSW 2320

OPEN FOR LUNCH DAILY

At Baumé (pronounced bow - may) we source the best of local ingredients and tend to them with love to create a

11am-4pm

casual family style dining experience. Start with some small tasting plates to tempt the taste buds, then enjoy our

OPENING HOURS BREAKFAST SAT & SUN

& LUNCH8am-11am DINNER Daily 11am- 4pm

Thursday - Monday 6pm-Late

shared created to be served in thewe middle of thethe tablebest accompanied a range of garden Atsignature Baumédishes; (pronounced bow - may) source of localby ingredients and fresh tendsides andto salads. If you arelove after something lighter,family then trystyle our delicious or house made wood pizzas. them with to createa alittle casual diningpastas experience. If you arefire after Don’t forget toaenjoy of ourthen hand-crafted after pastas your meal a coffee, tea or digestive something littlesome lighter, try ourdesserts delicious orwith house made wood ﬁre pizzas. Don’t forget to enjoy some of our hand-crafted desserts after your meal with a coffee, tea or digestive.

HunterValleyGardensShopping.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. EXCLUSIVE DIAMOND CO. - An elegant and stunning new store to the village, offering a range of European, contemporary and individualised pieces. Choose a stunning natural diamond, tanzanite or gemstone piece or perhaps something from our exclusive Larimar range.

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! 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. Phone 4998 6530. 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 menswear and accessories.

Play WINE GLASS GALLERY - Hundreds of beautiful wine glasses - Amazing glass vases, bowls, platters & ornaments plus gorgeous silk flowers. Unique tea lights. Amusing collector teapots. Infusers and candles. Seasonal Scarves. Souvenirs Aust. & Hunter Valley. Comical wine glasses, coasters and much more.

Dine AND THE WINNER IS OSCARS - We are a family friendly café serving honest wholesome food and great coffee, in a casual relaxed environment. We are opened for breakfast, lunch and everything in between. Our menu is available dine in or take away and is sure to impress. Phone 4998 7355. DEAR COFFEE - NITRO BEANS: Revolutionary new on tap cold brew coffee, tea and juice infused with Nitrogen, ensuring a crisp, healthy and refreshing drink. Tempt your tastebuds with our waffle on a stick with delicious toppings or other treats like the famous Hunter Valley Cookies, Peters Aussie Scoop ice cream, and various savoury treats. 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 - This award winning restaurant features an excellent selection of wines and serves Modern Australian cuisine in a relaxed, friendly environment. Open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday. Bookings recommended. Phone 4998 7584.

Pamper JOLIE HAIR MAKEUP BEAUTY - Jolie offers style cuts, colour services, hairstyling and several beauty services including waxing, tinting, manicures, pedicures, massage, makeup and more. Book today on 4998 6844.

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. 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 - We stock a wide range of boutique Hunter Valley and other regional wines. See our Tunnel of Beer along with a variety of quality white, red, sweet, sparkling wines and much more. HUNTER HONEY HIVE - Visit Hunter Honey Hive to experience everything honey and bee related, with free tastings daily!

Essentials POKOLBIN FARM SHOP - A modern convenience store & local produce collective. Including meats, dairy, vegies, crafts & souvenirs. Phone 4998 7191. 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.

BROKE ROAD, POKOLBIN. OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 10AM