Your Hunter Valley Blackboard August Issue 2018

The No.1 magazine for visitors to Hunter Valley Wine Country | AUGUST 2018 | ISSUE #138

Iain

RIGGS An Icon of the Australian Wine Industry

RAD REDS OF THE VALLEY

HERE’S CHEERS TO TOURING

HOT IN THE HUNTER

PINK FLOYD GIVEAWAY

BLACKBOARD

IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH...

AUGUST A WORD FROM THE EDITORS

PUBLISHED BY: WCP Media ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: PH +61 2 4943 2888 yourhuntervalley.com.au enquiries@wcpmedia.com.au WCP MEDIA Level 1, 216 Pacific Hwy, Charlestown, NSW 2290 AUGUST 2018 Cover Photo by Chris Elfes.

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.

Home to some of the oldest vines and biggest names in Australian wine, the Hunter Valley is a mecca for lovers of quality wines renowned for their thoroughly unique and distinctive style and ageing ability. This month we celebrate the “Rad Reds” of the Hunter Valley in this, our annual Big Red issue.

You’ll find tips on cellaring red wine, airing red wine, drinking red wine, all the red-wine varieties our region is famous for and of course – some of our top red picks as well. If it’s red – you’ll find it in this issue!

Iain Griggs (AM) has notched up 47 vintages in the wine industry, including 36 with Brokenwood where their mission statement is to “Make Great Wine and Have Fun”. Clearly, this is a motto that could be applied to his entire working life.

In this issue, we speak to Iain about his life’s work, his childhood and why he can’t believe he is lucky enough to be recognised for doing something that is his passion, rather than just his profession.

Another vigneron on a lifelong mission can be found at Gartelmann Wines in Lovedale. Having

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

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SPECIAL OFFERS AVAILABLE

From 1st August 2018 until the 31st August 2018 inclusive, or while stocks last.

spent the past 22 years producing some of the Hunter Valleys finest and most awarded wines, Jorg and Jan Gartelmann have much to be proud of – including their award-winning Shiraz.

When Sydney won the right to host the 2000 Olympics, John King thought he would make the most of the opportunity to drive his career in a new direction and so obtained his bus licence, hoping to transport tourists during the event.

Little did he know that this one act would see him eventually combine his passion for touring with his love of wine by becoming a tour operator in the Hunter Valley. In this issue, we caught up with John to find out what makes a great wine tour.

This is the last of our Winter issues, and as we go to press, we are enjoying days filled with sunshine and higher than average temperatures that will soon result in budburst.

11 9

What’s in this

Issue?

What's on in August & September

4

Echoes of Pink Floyd Giveaway

7

Hot in the Hunter

12

Iain Riggs Here's Cheers to Touring

30

16

21

Rad Reds of the Hunter Valley

26

Your Hunter Valley Map Before You Go - Red Rules

32 34

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What's

ON

Events not to miss in the Hunter Valley Region

FIND THE LATEST EVENTS ONLINE AT YOURHUNTERVALLEY.COM.AU

AUGUST

Markets

AUGUST

Handmade In The Hunter Markets At Kevin Sobels Wines AUGUST 11 + 25

Broke Village Market

At McNamara Park AUGUST 5

Wollombi Indigenous Colonial Village Fair At Wollombi Village AUGUST 12

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Made by Mike – Cork & Pork Winery Lunch At De Iuliis Winery

SAT 4 AUGUST This is a fun filled festival-style lunch with gourmet food, cooking demonstrations, wine blending, live music and butchery workshops.

Special bottles by MadebyMike will be dragged out of the cellar to top off a perfect afternoon.

Tickets are $150 and are jam packed with food, wine and demonstrations, or for members only $125. Kids aged 4 - 12 are $25.

For more information or to book, visit www.dewine.com.au

Winter Feast

At Vines Restaurant, Hollydene SAT 4 AUGUST Vines Restaurant at Hollydene will be hosting a magical night filled with wine, great music, dancing and an indulgent feast!

Tickets are $75 per person, including a glass of mulled wine and canapĂŠs on arrival, banquet style succulent slow cooked meats and roasted vegetables for a main, followed by a decadant dessert.

Tickets are $75, to book please call 6576 4007 (hurry!). Visit www.vinesathollydene.com

Vegan Long Lunch At Tamburlaine Lodge

SAT 4 AUGUST Tamburlaine Organic Wines is proud to be hosting this premiere Vegan food and wine experience with celebrity chef Matt Dillow. Including five courses of unforgettable cuisine paired to perfection with Tamburlaine organic and veganfriendly wines.

The menu is packed with gourmet meals, including five spiced tofu with miso sauce and sugar snap peas, chickpea battered eggplant with carrot and saffron puree, as well as saffron poached pear with rhubarb and star anise sauce.

Tickets are $110 for members and $120 for non-members. For more information or to book, please email Lou at ldavidson@tamburlaine.com.au

Drag Queen Bingo & Dinner At Nanna Kerr's Kitchen

FRI 10 AUGUST Come along to Nanna Kerr's Kitchen for a glamorous evening full of laughs with Timberlina, and some great food! Your evening will begin at 6:30pm enjoy a complimentary drink on arrival, and Timberlina will kick things off with some entertainment.

Tickets are $49, including three games of bingo ($150 worth of prizes!), entertainment, and a delicious pasta for main plus a panna cotta or chocolate fondant for dessert. So grab your friends and come along to enjoy what is sure to be an eventful and exciting evening! For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.kerrsorganic.com.au

Maitland Aroma Coffee & Chocolate Festival

The event will host over 80 stalls featuring quality coffee, decadent chocolate, gourmet comfort food and At Riverside Carpark, Maitland produce. There will also be a line up SAT 11 - SUN 12 AUGUST It's time to ward of roving performers and musicians on the Crema stage, as well as interactive off the winter chill with the return of the activities and much more to enjoy.

Maitland Aroma Coffee and Chocolate This festival of the senses sees the Festival, and enjoy a celebration of winter riverside come alive from 10am - 4pm on comforts featuring some of the Hunter's both days. We guarantee it will be hard finest baristas, roasters and chocolatiers. to resist the temptation of rich melted This fine food affair will include an chocolate or the smell of freshly ground interesting and diverse demonstration coffee beans as you pass by. Entry to the program, which will see local experts sharing their knowledge and expertise on festival is free.

For more information, visit the leading styles of coffee and chocolate www.maitlandaroma.com.au and their uses at home.

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Local’s Night – A Greek Feast!

At Verandah Restaurant

SUN 12 AUGUST Everyone is welcome at The Verandah Restaurant's Locals Nights!

These nights are a very popular treat – each night has a food theme, starting with canapes and bubbles, followed by a delicious 5 course tapas style degustation.

This month the theme is Greek Cypriot Meze (next month is Semillon and Seafood), costs $50 pp and even better, is BYO (No corkage). Bookings must be made in advance, phone 4998 7231, or email info@verandahrestaurant.com.au.

A Red Wine Dinner at The Deck Café, Lovedale

Pooch Picnic

At Pepper Tree Wines SUN 12 AUGUST Pepper Tree Wines is again holding their annual Pooch Picnic, with the gold coin entry donation going straight to Dog Rescue Newcastle.

You, your family, plus your furry friends (social dogs only, on leash) are invited for a day of wine and food (including Bao Brothers and Pulp Addiction Juicers), coffee, pet pampering and competitions! The talented team of Border Collies - The Wonderdogs, along with trainer Kelly Gill are also back again this year to put on a show for everyone.

You can bring your own rugs and chairs to relax on, plus your own picnic (no BYO alcohol). Don't forget the doggy bags! www.peppertreewines.com.au

FRI 17 AUGUST With the Saturday night already sold out, the Friday night event of the Red Wine Dinner at The Deck Café is sure to follow suit! Join Head chef Matt Dillow and the team for a meat extravaganza, and a showcase of amazing Gartelmann Red Wines including Sparkling Shiraz, Rosé, Merlot, Shiraz, Petit Verdot and finishing with Muscat. There are gluten free options available, as well as white wine alternatives. Book quick for this one – members $75 (max 4 guests) and non-members $90. Phone 4930 9007 or email members@gartelmann.com.au

Fireside Tasting

At Stomp! Wines, Lovedale SAT 18 AUGUST Rug up in your cosiest gear and enjoy an outdoors tasting experience by the fireside at Stomp! Wines. From 4.30pm - 6pm you'll get to enjoy the new release Stomp! Limited Release 2018 Fiano, which was blended by members at the annual Stomp! Festival, as well as the new Pssst 'n' Broke 2018 Rosé, Tawny and the long awaited release of the Stomp! Wine Muscat.

While you are relaxing in front of the fire, why not share a charcuterie board or even toast some marshmallows!

Tickets are $20 for members or $25 non members, bookings need to be made by Friday 10th August. For more information or to purchase tickets, please call Meredith on 0409 774 280 or email meredith@stompwine.com.au.

Robyn Collier Book Signing & Exhibition At Morpeth Gallery, Morpeth

SAT 18 + SUN 19 AUGUST Robyn Collier has been a professional artist, painting for over 45 years. Many of these have been spent visiting the isolated, flooded valley of Burragorang, near Sydney and painting its remaining beauty.

Her new book Paintings from Burragorang is the story of those years, a hard-cover coffee table style book. Purchase a copy and have Robyn sign it, whilst you admire Robyn’s spectacular paintings of Australia’s coastlines and beneath the water at Morpeth Gallery - open 10am - 5pm Thursday to Sunday. Below: Pastel Evening (detail).

Discover the variety and quality of goods grown, made and crafted by Hunter Valley artisans

Much more than a Vineyard.

S M T W T F S

9am ~ 3pm at Kevin Sobels Wines Our Matilda range is made up of easy drinking styles that are produced for your enjoyment.

Cnr Broke Road & Halls Road Pokolbin

Come Waltzing with Matilda...

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

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For weather cancellations visit: www.facebook.com/handmadehuntermarkets

Echoes of Pink Floyd Taking Over Cessnock At Cessnock Performing Arts Centre

WIN

FRI 24 AUGUST Australia’s largest scale Pink Floyd concept show entitled Echoes of Pink Floyd is finally bringing its two-hour fullscale concert to Cessnock Performing Arts Centre on Friday 24 August.

Celebrating 35 years since Pink Floyd last toured “The Wall”, Echoes of Pink Floyd will perform tracks from the band’s iconic 1979 album and will engage local schools to provide the “Brick in the Wall” choir. The tour also celebrates 50 years since Pink Floyd released their first album and will play a selection of Pink Floyd’s greatest hits that spans the band’s momentous career.

Synchronised to the music and designed to recreate the sights and emotions of a genuine Pink Floyd concert, Paul says, it’s not just the music, it’s the circle, the show and the whole experience.

“We are the only act that is touring trussing that supports this incredible 4-metre circle that can project 6000 lumens video. It really is a show not to be missed,” said Paul.

With several years in development and over 5000 hours of rehearsal time to perfect the songs, Echoes of Pink Floyd comprises a six-piece band featuring Daniel Hunter on lead guitar; Jason Miller on drums; Mark Dole on bass; Paul Bindig on keyboards and synthesisers; Mark MacNab on rhythm and acoustic guitar and Matt Goodluck on lead vocals.

“We aim to authentically replicate the brilliant sights and sounds of one of the world’s greatest progressive rock bands of all time,” said lead vocalist Matt Goodluck. For more information and tickets visit www.cessnockperformingartscentre.com.au Thanks to AAA Entertainment we have three double passes to giveaway to three lucky readers of Your Hunter Valley and intouch Magazine to see Echoes of Pink Floyd on 24 August at Cessnock Performing Arts Centre. Visit www.yourhuntervalley.com.au or the giveaways page at www.intouchmagazine.com.au to enter. Be quick – entries close 17 August. Good luck!

2018 Spring Art Fair At Ben Ean

FRI 24 - SUN 26 AUGUST Come and celebrate the last weekend of Winter at the 2018 Spring Art Fair!

Presented by Cessnock Regional Art Gallery, the event will kick off in style on the Friday night with a cocktail party for the official

opening. Tickets for the opening event are $30pp.

The Spring Art Fair Fundraising Dinner will be held on the Saturday night with the proceeds donated to Ovarian Cancer Research at HMRI and Cessnock Regional Art Gallery.

Tickets are $125pp, including a glass of champagne on arrival, Hunter Belle Cheese Platters, a three course meal and beautiful Hunter Valley wines.

The exhibition will be open to view over the weekend from 10am - 4pm with entry by gold coin donation. For more information or to purchase tickets to the events visit, www.crag.net.au

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

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SEPTEMBER SEPT

Markets

FREE EVENT

Wollombi Wild Ride Handmade In The Hunter Markets At Kevin Sobels Wines

SEPTEMBER 8, 22, 29 + 30

Based at Wollombi Tavern

SAT 1 SEPTEMBER Wollombi Wild Ride is a recreational Mountain Bike Event intended for riders of all standards. There are 3 separate courses to pick from – a reasonably flat 13.5km short course (8yrs+), a mid distance 30km course with plenty of hills (12yrs+), or a longer 58km course for those more experienced riders (16yrs+).

All courses are not very technical and are mostly on fire trails/gravel roads around the Wollombi and Laguna area – but don't be mistaken, there are some big climbs and descents on the mid and long rides! The event will be followed by live entertainment, with food and drinks available at Wollombi Tavern. Free short term camping (toilets, no showers) is allowed on the grounds of Wollombi Tavern also. For more details visit www.wollombiwildride.net

unday 9 September 2018 ppethead Park, KITCHENER Broke Village Market

At McNamara Park SEPTEMBER 2

Wollombi Village Markets n science event where scientists and naturalists work with the

At Wollombi Village re their local area with9 the aim of recording as many species as SEPTEMBER

Dalwood Markets

Tough Dog – King of the Hunter At Milbrodale

FRI 7 - SUN 9 SEPTEMBER Witness "Australia's toughest 4x4 off road race" in Milbrodale, with ULTRA4 racing at the home of Tuff Truck and the Milbrodale Mountain Classic. This unlimited, 4wd endurance racing is a brutal challenge, where each competitor tests their vehicle and skills through mud, fast trails and rock obstacles – all competing for the title King of the Hunter! There's lots more going on over the weekend, and free camping is also available. Weekend passes begin at $80 (adult), and single day passes are $50 for the Saturday or $40 for the Sunday. You can find more information at www.ultra4racing.com.au

Bio Blitz

e BioBlitz and learn Estate from a At Dalwood SEPTEMBER 9 ained ecologists whilst the h the DISCOVERY RANGERS or Artisan Spring Market t WATERWATCH .

At Poppethead Park, Kitchener SUN 9 SEPTEMBER Bio Blitz is a citizen science event where scientists and naturalists work with the community to explore their local area with the aim of recording as many species as possible.

Come along and learn from a team of highly trained ecologists whilst the kids have fun with the Discovery Rangers or find out all about WaterWatch. There will also be a variety of food and information stalls. For more information visit www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au/OurBusland

At Great Northern Trading Post, Laguna

and other information stalls SEPTEMBER 23

For more information call 4993 4100 or visit www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au/OurBushland HORIZONTAL VERSION

VERTICAL VERSION

and/or Day Spa in Elysia, Hunter Valley. The horizontal elements, the door icon, the Golden Door, Elysia and Health

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is only to be used when the horizontal version ca used due to limited space such as on smaller digita

Tuscan Long Lunch

Wollombi Music Festival

SUN 9 SEPTEMBER Come and celebrate spring at Tintilla Estate as they host their popular Tuscan Long Lunch. This event is a sell out every year and with the Saturday event already sold out, the Sunday event is sure to follow!

Starting off the long lunch, first course will consist of a bruchetta of pesto and house made labna and fire seared capsicum.

Second course includes quinoa crusted zucchini flowers filled with goats cheese and beetroot relish, followed by tuscan chicken roulade with grilled poleta and rich tomato sauce for third course. The final course will be a gorgeous limoncello tart with meringue and raspberry coulis. All courses have been carefully matched with Tintilla wines.

Bookings are essential and numbers are limited. Tickets are $105 per person and $95 for club members. Please call 6574 7093 or email info@tintilla.com.au to book.

FRI 21 – SUN 23 SEPTEMBER This year, Wollombi Music Festival has expanded into two nights of musical goodness! The Friday night will be a limited ticket affair (400) at the Big Yengo Stage from 3pm - 11pm, followed by a campfire jam at one of the legendary firepits - including a well stocked bar and a great mix of food stalls. The Saturday will be in full swing with 2 stages filled with a mix of blues, roots, reggae and dub, quality market stalls, food, drinks, a designated area for the kids, drum circle, silent disco, roving performers, plus more!

Tickets are sold as weekend passes and Saturday only tickets (no Friday only), and include free camping - kids under 12 are free! This festival is expected to sell out as it always does - so jump onto it quick! Tickets and more details are available through www.ticketbooth.com.au (search Wollombi Music Festival).

At Tintilla Estate

Cranky Rock, Wollombi

Broke Village Fair & Vintage Car Display McNamara Park, Broke

SUN 9 SEPTEMBER From 9am – 3pm, McNamara Park in Broke will come alive with plenty to see and do! The famous Vintage Car Display will bring all sorts of vintage and classic cars, motorbikes, trucks and tractors and an amazing array of vintage farm machinery.

Get ready for an action packed day with kid's rides, an animal display and laser tag, plus over 60 market stalls, whip cracking, live music, bush poetry, Tug-oWar, rocker car racing and so much more.

Free mine tours to Bulga Open Cut mine will operate between 10am and 1.30pm.

Entry is by gold coin donation, with money raised going to local community groups including the Broke Fire Brigade and Broke Hall. For more information vist, www.brokefordwich.com.au

Cheers Bus

Hunter Valley Guided Winery Tours

Secure your online booking and tour information at www.cheersbus.com • Full or half day, private or public guided boutique tours in an air conditioned mini bus or hire car, seven days per week • Pick up from your local vineyard accommodation or group pickups only from Sydney (via Morisset train station), 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, brewhouse tastings, as well as vodka, schnapps, cheese, olive and chocolate tastings Photo taken at Ivanhoe Vineyard

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

www.cheersbus.com • Call John on 0408 987 057

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!

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End2End Festival Throughout Pokolbin

SAT 15 SEPTEMBER Who doesn't love a good food, wine and music festival! Featuring four venues, over 20 wineries, gourmet food, live music, celebrity chefs, Semillon and seafood, Boutique Beer, Beef and Big Reds and so much more, the End2End Festival will delight the senses and tickle the tastebuds.

The four chosen venues for 2018 are wine country icons Cypress Lakes, McLeish Estate, Ben Ean and Drayton's Family Wines.

Hop on and off the End2End shuttle bus at any of the four

Ben Ean

venues throughout the day, relax with a glass of wine while listening to some tunes and indulge in fantastic food. There is something for everyone!

For bookings and more details visit, www.end2endfestival.com.au

Hunter Valley Balloon Fiesta Above Pokolbin

FRI 28 SEPTEMBER – MON 1 OCTOBER The annual Balloon Aloft Hunter Valley Balloon Fiesta will once again be taking to the skies over the Huntery Valley in an amazing display of colour and excitement! Each day of the Fiesta sees upward of twenty-five hot air balloons from all around the country launch together at sunrise and float majestically over the Hunter Valley wine country. Join in the excitement as a passenger or follow along from the ground.

Celebrations continue after the flight at Peterson House Winery with live music, a gourmet breakfast and a champagne tasting to wrap up an exciting and fun-filled morning.

For more information, visit www.balloonaloft.com or follow the Balloon Aloft Hunter Valley Fiesta Facebook page.

Photo by Colin Turner-Butler

Dashville Skyline

At Dashville, Lower Belford FRI 28 - SUN 30 SEPTEMBER The annual Dashville Skyline, Australia's very own Cosmic Country Weekender, returns for its fourth instalment at Dashville.

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The three-day camping festival is a celebration of alternative country music and culture in its varied forms, hosting over 30 live performances, mouth-watering American-inspired food and drinks, boutique market stalls, an animal petting zoo and much more.

Included in this years stellar lineup are Australian band The Waifs who recently celebrated their 25th anniversary with the release of their new album Ironbark, as well as magical Australian blues artist C.W. Stoneking.

This is an all ages event so why not bring the whole family! For more information or to purchase tickets visit, www.dashville.com.au

WINE COUNTRY DRIVE NULKABA

BRASSERIE

BAR

BREWERY

ACCOMMODATION

CONFERENCE

FUNCTIONS

WEDDINGS

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

MEET THE MAKER

The Crafty Pit WORDS Michelle Meehan

Markets may be a mecca for those looking for unique handcrafted homewares or interesting pieces of art, but artisans’ crafts aren’t the only products in demand among marketgoers.

After working up an appetite browsing the stalls, why not satisfy your hunger with a sumptuous slow-cooked delight from The Crafty Pit. Established in 2016 by Raymond Terrace couple Paul and Amanda Bull, the food van offers a range of barbecued meats cooked ‘low n slow with a twist’ and incorporated in a range of delicious dishes, from burgers and wraps to nachos and subs.

Hunter Valley

Chocolate Company EST. 1999

“I bought my first Weber Kettle barbecue back in 2000 and started my love for charcoal cooking,” Paul said.

“Nearly every weekend I would be cooking pork or chicken roast along with vegetables all on the Kettle. I love to cook for family and friends, and it was my family and friends that said to us we need to get out there, purchase a food van and let other people try our creations.

“The Crafty Pit started in early 2016. The name came together based on trying to do thing different when it comes to pit cooking – ‘low n slow with a twist’.”

Passionate about cooking meats that are tender and full of flavour, Paul said the secret lay in the spices they use and the patience required not to rush the process.

“All my meats are cooked low and slow over ironbark wood,” he said.

“The secret is the quality of meat used, good spice rubs to give flavour, temperature control and time to cook it – it can’t be rushed.

“Working closely with the team at Terrace Meat Raymond Terrace we are able to source the best cuts for low and slow cooking. The barbecue sauce we use is freshly made every week and our spice rubs are also handmade using the freshest of ingredients.”

The Crafty Pit has been making its way to the Handmade in the Hunter Markets since March this year and regulars will notice that while they have a core offering, Paul and Amanda love to change up their menu. With so many tasty dishes on offer, Paul said it was tough to select just one favourite.

“My favourite is the Pulled Beef Burger with smoked pulled beef, beetroot relish and vintage cheese – the combination of all three things work well together,” he said.

“Amanda’s would be the Cheeseburger Spring Rolls. Freshly made for every event, these are definitely a crowd favourite.

And you can’t go past our nachos using our pulled meats, fresh tomato salsa and all the trimmings – it’s a meal for two.”

Check out The Crafty Pit at the Handmade in the Hunter Markets this month, which will be held at Kevin Sobels Wines from 9am to 3pm on August 11 and 25.

Morpeth Antique Centre Discover 25 dealers

and The Servant’s Quarters Tearoom, all under one roof.

All things Ancient, Antique, Vintage, Retro, Heirloom, Collectable.

Located in the heart of Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company has been a family owned and operated Hunter Valley gem for the last 19 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, HVG, Broke Road

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

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

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WHAT'S HOT IN THE

Hunter ATTENTION Candy Lovers!

We are sure you will be going crazy over Hunter Resort's Big Kids Candy Making Class! Working with the executive chef, you will learn how to make delicious candy favourites infused with alcohol, including peanut brittle, marshmallows and boozy rocky road chocolate (alcohol is optional).

As well as the delicious candy you have made, you will also get to take home some fun recipes!

Workshops run for 90 minutes (shorter options also available), and are $50 per person. For all terms and conditions visit, www.hunterresort.com.au

WHERE Hunter Resort, Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin OPEN 7 days PH 4998 7222

Add a little CHEESE to your Wedding Day! If you are after something stiking or a little different to the traditional wedding cake, why not indulge and have a wedding cake made up of delicious handmade regional cheeses!

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

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

WHERE Hunter Valley Cheese Factory, 447 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin OPEN 7 days, 9am - 5:30pm PH 4998 7744 www.huntervalleycheese.com.au

Hunter Valley

Trail Rides for Beginners and Experienced Riders

Kitchen & Bakery OPEN NOW Pokolbin Village Accommodation • General Store Pokolbin Bottle Shop • Smelly Cheese Shop Chocolate and Jam Company • Tempt & Vixen 2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin 2320 www.pokolbinvillage.com.au

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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!

Winter is a wonderful time to go horse riding. Stay and have a BBQ and when the weather permits sit around the fire.

FINALIST

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

of the Hunter Region Business Excellence Awards 2016

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

Go On... Treat Yourself this Winter!

Relax and have your skin left feeling replenished with Golden Door's August special offer Glow Package!

Your luxurious treatment begins with an invigorating 50-minute Aromatic Salt Glow. Using aromatic oils to relax, rebalance or reenergise your mind and body, your skin will be left feeling velvety soft.

Continue your treatment with a beautiful 50-minute Collagen Booster Facial. By stimulating the natural collagen in your skin, this facial will give your skin more elasticity, plumpness, with a visibly smooth and healthy glow.

This 100-minute treatment is only $289 pp throughout August (normally $330), and also includes complimentary use of the Day Spa facilities including steam room, spa bath and relaxation lounge. Bookings are essential. Visit the website for all terms and conditions.

WHERE Golden Door Elysia Health Retreat & Spa, 165 Thompsons Road, Pokolbin OPEN 7 days. PH 4993 8500 www.goldendoor.com.au

THE BIGGEST DISPLAY GARDEN IN THE SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE

A naturally beautiful experience in the heart of Hunter Valley Wine Country The Gardens are a place for the appreciation of nature and peaceful reflection…but they are also a place for families and fun. The ten individually themed gardens showcase the artistry of gardens around the world and use both native and exotic varieties of plants. Enjoy a beautiful, nature based, experience for local, national and international visitors.

A Gift for Every Occasion Prepare to be amazed! Imagine finding over 3,000 gifts in one venue with an emphasis on colourful wine glasses and exciting home decorator items!

You will be sure to find something special at the Wine Glass Gallery at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village. Take a wander through this wine glass wonderland, which boasts hundreds of beautiful crystal and colourful glassware, as well as comical wine glasses, coasters and magnets that will have you laughing out loud!

If you're looking for unique glass vases, bowls, platters and ornaments, you'll find them here, along with quirky collector teapots, exotic candles and infuses, Australian made hand creams, gorgeous silk flowers, souvenirs and so much more. There truly is a gift for everyone!

Come and see why this is a Hunter Valley experience not to miss.

WHERE Wine Glass Gallery, Shop 3, Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, Pokolbin OPEN 7 days 10am - 5pm PH 4998 6888

UPCOMING EVENTS MEGA CREATURES

DATE: 29th Sep – 14 th Oct Immerse yourself in the land of the Mega Creatures at Hunter Valley Gardens these Spring school holidays! See the giant animatronic Dragons, Dinosaurs and Mega Bugs!

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SPECTACULAR DATE: 2nd No – 26 th Jan

Every year we bring friends and families together to celebrate the magic of Christmas and make memories that will last a lifetime.

For more details visit hvg.com.au 02 4998 4000 - Broke Rd Pokolbin *Guided garden tours are user pay. Gardens open from 9am – 5pm daily. Admission charges apply.

Rides are only open during event periods.

13 | AUGUST 2018 hvb

A FINE WINE PHILOSOPHY

At Gartelmann Wines WORDS Quentin von Essen

SPECIALISING IN QUALITY AUSTRALIAN ALPACA FASHION, HOMEWARES & ACCESORIES OPEN 7 Days 10am - 5pm

Peppers Creek on Broke Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, Pokolbin

PH 4998 6669 • www.australianalpaca.com

Luxuriously soft lightweight and warm

Having spent the past 22 years producing some of the Hunter Valleys finest and most awarded wines, Gartelmann Wines in Lovedale have much to be proud of.

The Gartelmann Wines story goes back to 1996, when owner and winemaker Jorg Gartelmann and his wife Jan, made the move from Sydney to the Hunter Valley where they bought a rundown although promising vineyard in the Lovedale area.

With the aim to make only top quality wines, Jorg commenced making a limited amount of wine under the Gartelmann label specialising in the classic Hunter Valley varieties of Semillon and Shiraz for which they have won multiple awards. Gartelmann Wines now also produce Verdelho, Chardonnay, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet as well as a Liqueur Muscat ‘’My wine philosophy is simple’’, says Jorg, ‘’I only produce wines that I would like to drink – and that means immediately approachable and with balance.”

In 2006 and after a decade of hard work and recognition for the superior quality of their wines, Jorg and Jan decided to sell the vineyard whilst retaining the property and cellar door on Lovedale Rd to adopt the ways of the French and become ‘’négociants’’ - buying especially selected, high quality grapes to produce wine under the Gartelmann label.

The winning streak continued unabated with Gartelmann picking up numerous awards for their wines and in particular for their Diedrich

Shiraz which has dazzled wine judges for years with an impressive combined medal tally of 5 Bronze medals, 7 Silver medals, 6 Gold medals and 4 Trophies, as well as numerous special awards including “BEST RED WINE OF SHOW” twice!

Named after Jorg Gartelmann’s grandfather, the Diedrich is Gartelmann’s icon Shiraz, produced only in the best vintages from old vines, lightly pressed and low in tannin. A wine that only gets better with time in the bottle.

It's easy to see why James Halliday has rated Gartelmann Wines as a 5 Star Winery, making it one of Australia’s best. With its award-winning wines, great atmosphere and stylish restaurant-style café, a visit to the Gartelmann Cellar door is a ''must do'' for any visitor to the Hunter Valley.

So look out for the giant magpie as you drive along Lovedale Rd - and when you spot it, you will know that you have discovered a real gem of a producer with some outstanding wines.

SPECIAL OFFER - 6 VINTAGES! To celebrate the success of this amazing wine, Gartelmann Wines is now offering the exclusive Diedrich Shiraz 6 Vintage Pack (comprising six vintages from 2010 to 2016) for just $300.

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 7 Days PH 4930 9006 • www.reflectionsdayspa.com.au

ON THE GO? PLANNING A TRIP? Read Your Hunter Valley Blackboard online each month at www.yourhuntervalley.com.au Find out what’s on at your fingertips it’s your Hunter Valley after all! /YourHunterValleyBlackboard hvb 14 | AUGUST 2018

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15 | AUGUST 2018 hvb

IAIN RIGGS

Making Great Wine and Having Fun WORDS Michelle Meehan

Iain Riggs is always amazed when he is acknowledged for his contribution to the wine industry.

It’s not that he feels it is undeserved in some way – he just can’t believe he is lucky enough to be recognised for doing something that is his passion, rather than just his profession.

The latest accolade for the Managing Director, Chief Winemaker and part owner of Brokenwood Wines arrived in June with the unveiling of the 2018 Queen’s Birthday Honours list, with Iain named a Member of the Order of Australia (AM).

hvb 16 | AUGUST 2018

Photo by Sophie Granger

“

Awarded for his significant service to oenology as a winemaker, to the development of the Australian wine industry, and to the promotion of the Hunter Valley region, Iain said he was honoured by the recognition.

I’m honoured of course. The wine industry is such a joy to work in, it does seem odd to be recognised for having such a great time but we need to keep giving back.

“Mentoring and giving back to the industry gives me great enjoyment, I’m just glad to be part of it.”

Iain has notched up 47 vintages in the wine industry, including 36 with Brokenwood where their mission statement is to “Make Great Wine and Have Fun”.

Clearly this is a motto that could be applied to his entire working life.

After growing up on the land in regional South Australia, extended family influences saw Iain become interested in the wine industry as a teenager – a passion which he then pursued throughout high school and beyond.

“I grew up on the land, first on a wheat/sheep property in the midnorth of South Australia, halfway between Clare and Burra, and then in the late ’60s on a sheep property out of Walcha in NSW,” he said.

“We moved back to Adelaide in early 1970 and I worked fruit picking in the Riverland while staying with an uncle and aunty at Kingston on Murray. They both worked in two different wineries, so I got interested then as a 15-year-old.

“I did two years at Urrbrae Agriculture High School and then went to Roseworthy (Agricultural College) in 1972. I graduated at the end of 1975 and by that stage I was working at Bleasdale Vineyards in Langhorne Creek.”

This was followed by a stint at Hazelmere Estate in McLaren Vale during 1981-82, where his interest in varietal blending really took off.

During this time he became known as a pioneer of the now famous combination of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon – a tradition he later continued when he moved to the Hunter Valley to take up a role with the promising Brokenwood Wines company.

“I started this blend in McLaren Vale in the 1981 vintage, and I’m not 100 per cent sure why,” Iain said.

“Fume style was around mainly from Knappstein and Cullen, but the Hazelmere wines were very fragrant.

“Then I moved to Brokenwood, where the partners had started using Coonawarra fruit with Hunter fruit in 1978.

“There’s nothing new about regional blending as some of Australia’s greatest wines from the ’30s, ’40s and ’50s utilised different regions.

“I introduced the Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon blend for Brokenwood in 1990.”

In 1982 Iain moved from South Australia to make his career in Australia’s oldest wine growing region, relocating to the Hunter Valley to join Brokenwood Wines.

Established in 1970 as a weekend venture by a trio of Sydney-based solicitors, Tony Albert, John Beeston and James Halliday, Brokenwood Wines had been predominantly producing Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz varietals until 1982 when they started to include white wines in their range for the first time.

The expansion was quickly followed by a decision to employ a Chief Winemaker/Managing Director, who would be tasked with helping consolidate the company’s growth.

Iain successful applied for the role and the rest, as they say is history, with the former South Australian recently overseeing his 36th vintage at the Pokolbin winery.

“After two vintages at Hazelmere Estate in McLaren Vale it was clear that company was in trouble, and James Halliday had convinced the other Brokenwood partners to expand and employ a winemaker,” he said.

“I applied and got the job.”

(Continued next page) ►

17 | AUGUST 2018 hvb

(L to R) John Beeston, James Halliday, Iain Riggs.

(Continued) Since then, Iain has guided the company through a number of changes and challenges, as well as a fertile period of growth that has seen its production rise from 2500 cases a year, to in excess of 100,000.

“There’s been lots of changes, most notably the size of the business,” he said.

“We produced maybe 2500 cases from the 1982 vintage and now we class ourselves as a 100,000 case winery.

“What hasn’t changed is the passion everyone shares for Brokenwood and its wines. It is still a private company and staff has grown from one to over 40.

“I like to think that one major change is that the wines are significantly better and keep on improving year after year.

“Like all growing wineries, it is a deep hole for cash and thankfully the partners kept putting their hands in their pockets through the ’80s and early ’90s.

“

The main challenge being a Hunter Valley based winery is of course the weather. We have to take the good with the bad but years like 2008 and 2012, where we couldn’t make a drop of dry red, does test your resolve.

Iain was also the driving force behind Brokenwood’s flagship wine, the Graveyard Vineyard Shiraz and its promotion as a unique Single Vineyard Shiraz.

Rated as Exceptional in the Langton’s Classification of Australian Wine, it is still the only Hunter Valley Shiraz to feature.

A number of other premium Brokenwood Shiraz are included in the portfolio, such as the Mistress Block Vineyard Shiraz, Verona Vineyard Shiraz, Wade Block 2 Vineyard Shiraz and the Indigo Vineyard Shiraz.

Iain is also a great promoter of Hunter Valley Semillon with the highly acclaimed ILR (Iain Leslie Riggs) Reserve Semillon now Brokenwood’s flagship white wine.

Outside of his roles at Brokenwood, Iain has shared his passion for “improving the breed” of Australian wine by taking on a host of judging and chairman’s roles over the years.

This included being Chairman of the Hunter Valley Wine Show from 2002-2011, having taken over from Len Evans. A year after he left the Wine Show committee honoured him with the naming of the Iain

hvb 18 | AUGUST 2018

Riggs Wine of Provenance Trophy, which was a new award bestowed in recognition of a wine’s pedigree.

Iain was also the Chairman of Judges at the Sydney Royal Wine Show for six years, is the immediate past Chairman of the Wine Show of Western Australia and is the current chair of the Shanghai International Wine Challenge.

He also holds the role of Chairman of Trustees of the Len Evans Foundation, which conducts the prestigious week-long Len Evans Tutorial While the AM is Iain’s latest accolade, his career has been littered with honours, including the Graham Gregory Award for outstanding service to the NSW wine industry (2003), and the Len Evans Award for Leadership at the 2013 Gourmet Traveller Wine Magazine Winemaker of the Year Awards.

In July 2016 Iain was named the NSW Legend of the Vine by Wine Communicators of Australia, while later in the year the Australian Women in Wine Awards recognised Iain and Brokenwood Wines as the Workplace Champion of Change for a long history of promoting women within the workplace.

A vocal advocate for Australia’s wine industry over many decades, Iain said he is driven by two main passions.

“There’s two things, our great history and our great future,” he said.

“The wines of 1930's through to say, 1970 are marvellous examples of gifted winemakers especially working under less than ideal conditions.

“Over the last 36 years at Brokenwood, we have seen equally gifted and passionate people come through and go on to make great wine all over the world.

“The Australian wine industry is perfectly positioned to take advantage of the opening up/relaxing of regulations in world wine trade. Asia for now is certainly our biggest opportunity.

“We need to take advantage of the growing interest in fine wine as opposed to beverage wine.”

Closer to home, Iain is focused on enjoying the bright future in store at Brokenwood Wines.

“We decided a few years ago that rather than tread water, Brokenwood should embark on ‘the next big thing’. As such a new cellar door and restaurant is being built and will open in December,” he said.

“In a way, it is so un-Brokenwood, as we pride ourselves on being the smallest big winery in Australia, but we will maintain our love affair with small batch parcels of super premium wine and our consumers.

“Our Mission Statement, after all, is ‘Make Great Wine and Have Fun’.” ■

WINTER TIPS from Golden Door WORDS Peter Rule | Holistic Health Services Manager Winter is a great time to sit by the fire, drink warm drinks, eat nourishing warm foods and get lots of sleep. In nature winter is a time of slowing down and there can be more exposure to cold temperatures and wind creating dry skin as moisture is evaporated from the body.

There’s a number of simple ways we can minimise the ravaging effects of winter on our bodies. Here’s my top-tips!

1. Cook warm foods – use onion, garlic, ginger, turmeric, pepper, oats/ rice porridge, eggs, sweet potato, zucchini, squash, tomatoes and cooked grains like Quinoa.

2. Include oils in your diet - use olive oil, macadamia oil and coconut oil when cooking.

3. Try an oil Massage – for dry, rough and cracking skin - massage Luke warm oil into the skin starting at fingers and feet working towards centre of the chest, leave 15mins to soak in and then rinse in a warm shower. Best oils are black sesame oil, almond, olive or macadamia oil.

4. Drink spiced turmeric milk – warm 250mls of almond milk, 2 teaspoons of ground turmeric, 1 teaspoon grated ginger plus a pinch of black pepper. Use maple syrup or honey as a sweetener. Yum 5. Enjoy a hearty breakfast – to keep you going all day, try out our Brown Rice Porridge below.

Dine out today at Harrigan’s

Brown Rice Porridge With Zesty Lime & Coconut “Simple & delicious! We love serving this porridge for breakfast during winter; it’s a huge hit every week with guests. It is an interesting twist to a really traditional style breakfast. Plus brown rice is a wonderful source of dietary fibre for improved gut health and magnesium which boosts heart health!” James Knight, Executive Chef.

Recipe: Serves 4 Ingredients: 3 cups of cooked brown rice 2 tablespoons organic maple syrup Finely grated zest of ½ lime 3 medjool dates, pitted (optional) 1 ½ cups coconut water ¼ cup coconut milk ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon To serve: 125g fresh berries or 2 bananas, sliced Method: Place all the ingredients in a food processor and process until well combined. Transfer to a saucepan and gently heat over medium,-low heat. Serve with fresh berries or sliced banana.

Chef’s Tip: You can replace lime with orange or lemon zest.

Use fresh young coconut flesh and water instead of tinned coconut milk and water.

LIVE MUSIC

ALL WEEKE

ND!

Enjoy a delicious meal at Harrigan’s in the heart of the Hunter Valley. Only minutes from Hunter Valley Garden’s, boutique shops and some of Australia’s finest Vineyards, make it a whole day out for your next trip to the Hunter Valley.

For details visit harrigans.com.au or call 4998 4300 to make a booking

Broke Road Pokolbin

19 | AUGUST 2018 hvb

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

From the VISITOR

INFORMATION CENTRE SMART CASUAL DINING FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE WEDDINGS | EVENTS | PRIVATE FUNCTIONS LOCATED ON THE VINE AT COCKFIGHTERS GHOST VINEYARD 576 DE BEYERS ROAD, POKOLBIN PH: 4998 7776| info@huntersquarter.com.au www.huntersquarter.com.au

OPEN LUNCH THURS - SUN. DINNER THURS, FRI, SAT & MON.

WHAT’S ON AT THE HUNTER VALLEY VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE IN AUGUST? Join our friendly team at the Hunter Valley Visitor Information Centre in August for some inspiration on things do during winter. Check out the range of Hunter Valley events which are very much centred around food, including Winter Feasts and Fireside Dining. We love the theme of feasts and fire!

UP, UP AND AWAY This month the Hunter Valley Visitor Information Centre has a special showcase of aviation activities with an in-centre display called “Up, Up and Away”. Our friendly team can’t wait to give you the inside scoop into hot air ballooning, helicopter joy flights and exhilarating jet rides!

Ballooning is a must do with passenger balloon flights operated locally, with excellent service and safety assured. Soar into the skyline in a helicopter charter and see the destination from the sky. The Hunter Valley also offers jet rides, skydiving and Biplane flights.

The Visitor Centre sits only a few hundred metres from the gateway terminal of Cessnock Airport, connecting you to a range of air activities you can book and enjoy right from Pokolbin. Drop into the Visitor Centre today to learn more about exciting scenic air adventures.

ANNUAL LAGUNA ART EXHIBITION The 27th Annual Laguna Art Exhibition will be held at Laguna Community Hall from Saturday 25 August to Sunday 26 August. A collection of over 200 pieces of artwork from leading and local artists will be on display with all funds raised going to Laguna Public School. There will also be local arts and crafts markets, onsite café and activities for the kids to enjoy.

Weddings Amongst the Vines The charming colonial buildings, stunning landscaped grounds and sweeping verandahs of Calais Estate provide the perfect setting for your wedding.

Catering for up to 250 guests, choose from a selection of modern-style menu dishes or create a personalised menu for your special day.

To enquire, please email info@verandahrestaurant.com.au

(02) 4998 7231

www.verandahrestaurant.com.au hvb 20 | AUGUST 2018

MOUNT VIEW IN THE SPOTLIGHT Each month the Centre highlights a different precinct within the Hunter Valley. In August the spotlight is on Mount View which has quality boutique wineries nestled in the hills, a patchwork of picturesque vineyards, and a wide range of accommodation including contemporary cottages, luxury villas and homely farmhouses. Admire the views, take a tour and enjoy the fine dining options.

Mount View is one of the best-kept secrets of the Hunter Valley.

It has famously distinct wines, iconic dining experiences, glorious accommodation options and panoramic views. The iconic Bistro Molines offers relaxed dining and inspiring seasonal menus showcasing locally sourced produce, and there are loads of intimate venues for a perfect Hunter Valley vineyard wedding. The stunning surrounds of Mount View also provide the perfect backdrop for avid photographers.

Take in the scenic views from the Bimbadeen Lookout on the Great North Walk. It’s a beautiful outlook that overlooks the city of Cessnock and connects to bushwalking and mountain biking tracks. If you would like more information on seeing more of Mount View during your visit, be sure to visit the Hunter Valley Visitor Cessnock City Council Information Centre.

Rhiannon Stevens

Here's Cheers to TOURING! WORDS Michelle Meehan

When Sydney won the right to host the 2000 Olympics, John King thought he would make the most of the opportunity to drive his career in a new direction.

The Cessnock fitter went out and obtained his bus licence, with the hope of transporting tourists or athletes around Sydney for the Games.

While John did eventually find work at the Olympics, it wasn’t behind the wheel of a bus, securing a role in logistics at the Sydney Olympic Park Tennis Centre instead.

But that didn’t put the brakes on John’s transportation dreams, and 12 years down the track he finally made the switch from the tools and into the driver’s seat after buying the well-recognised Cheers Bus winery tour company in the Hunter Valley.

“Just after the Olympics I answered a local ad and worked with Bradley Garret, who had Bellbird Vine Link. I did a dozen or so tours, weekend tours, with him and I sort of learnt how to do the wine tours with him.

“Then it was like 10 or 12 years later when I actually bought the (Cheers Bus) business.

“Originally I wanted to start my own company, but then it was all too hard to try and think of a good name, and being a tradesman, it was a bit safer to get back into mechanical fitting and that sort of thing.

“I was working in mining and maintenance jobs, being a fitter, so that wasn’t the most exciting career, but being a local, I’d see the buses around and thought that would be a good lifestyle. (continued next page) ►

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

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 21 | AUGUST 2018 hvb

(continued) “A neighbour of mine owned the Cheers Bus and (when I found out they were selling it) I went straight up there and said I wanted to buy it.

“Having driven for someone else in the past I knew what to do with the driving and the organising, so when the bus company did come along, I sort of knew most of what I had to do. It made it less daunting rather than starting something for myself.”

The Cheers Bus wine tour company has been around in the Hunter for about 20 years, with John taking over the reins in 2012.

The company has two buses, and a chauffeured hire car service, offering a range of set packages, including half day and full day tours, as well as the ability to customise a trip to suit the passengers’ interests, budget and time.

A typical full day tour lasts around seven hours and visits three or four cellar doors, while also stopping for a private cheese and chocolate tasting and visiting the Hunter Distillery to sample their range of organic vodkas, gins and schnapps.

Aside from driving the bus, John also provides a running commentary for the tour group, offering an insight into the wineries they are visiting and some information about the region in general.

John said aside from having a great name that sticks in a person’s head, the key to a successful wine tour company is its ability to connect with the passengers.

“Getting that right name and delivering a good tour that people enjoy is the difference between being able to succeed (and fail) I think,” he said.

“Organising and being friendly and flexible with the groups makes a big difference between being just another driver or a tour operator.

“I usually let them know the history of the winery that we’re about to go to, or anything unique to that winery. For example, one winery might have a popular sparkling Semillon, or I might talk about how some of the wines are named, different things like that, just some general banter to break the ice with them on the way through.

For the smaller groups I also ask what they prefer to drink and then I try to customise the tour around that, or if there are any suggestions or preferences, I’ll try to add that into their day, so they get what they want.”

From major label wineries to boutique operations tucked away down country roads, Australia’s oldest wine region has more than 150 cellar doors operating within Pokolbin, Lovedale and surrounding areas.

With such a wide selection on offer, it can be easy for tourists to feel overwhelmed when it comes to planning their visits to the vineyards, which according to John is one of the main benefits of booking a trip with a tour operator like the Cheers Bus. “People will just go off recommendations from someone else, but no-one can really say this wine's better than this one or that one,” he said.

“I think the people also don't know where they're going a lot of the time because the wineries are so spread out.

Your always welcome at...

Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant

There is nothing quite like a fes�ve sushi pla�er to impress your guests.

It tastes healthy, light and delicious.

A favourite dining experience for locals and visitors alike.

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

Takeaway available every day.

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

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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 #tintillaestate hvb 22 | AUGUST 2018

John King

“A wine tour is about having the local knowledge of those places that only sell their wines at their cellar doors, and being able to give the more personalised presentation; these are the things you just can't find by looking through a book.

“I can plan which wineries are the best in what order so you’re basically just travelling in a straight line; you're not backtracking. That way you can fit more in, and you can sit back and look at the scenery rather than looking at a map.”

John said while he regularly varies the mix of wineries he will visit on any given tour, he does have a core selection of mainly family-run and boutique cellar doors that he comes back to time and time again, including Ivanhoe Wines, Ernest Hill Wines, Mistletoe Winery, Tintilla Estate Wines, Iron Gate Estate and Blueberry Hill Wines.

The success of the tour often comes down to the tasting presentation given by the staff at the various cellar doors, with John quick to praise the quality of the family-owned wineries.

“People look at what the presentation was like,” he said.

“If it was average wine or great wine, they don't mention that, but they’ll talk about the presenter. So, it'll be 60 per cent the presentation, and then 20 per cent the wine and 20 per cent the location that impresses them.

“Nearly all the cellar door presenters in the Hunter are passionate, but you just seem to get that extra customer service from the familyowned wineries.

“You get the passion coming out more for the wine industry as a whole, rather than just trying to sell their product, so it’s often a nicer, informed presentation going to the small family-owned wineries.”

As both a proud local and a wine lover himself, John is passionate about what he does. While running a business always entails some time spent in the office organising the logistics or completing paperwork, John is happiest when he is behind the wheel of one of his buses, creating connections and passing on his love of the Hunter vineyard region to others.

“If I don't go out for a couple of days I miss it,” he said.

“I like introducing people to new friends. They’re swapping email addresses and catching up on their holidays, or they might know other family members in other parts of Sydney or somewhere, so it's just about connecting people with other travellers, hearing their stories, and showing them the premium wines we have on offer in the Hunter.

“I love what I do, I wish I was doing it 20 years ago, and now I can’t imagine doing anything else.” ■

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

V I NEYARD

Boutique Hunter Win es

Kelman Vineyard has been producing high quality classic Hunter varietals since 1999.

James Halliday awarded the 2016 Shiraz 93 points and this new 2017 release lives up to the promise.

Its bold flavours and structure make it an excellent match for hearty slow cooked beef or lamb dishes or a steak on the BBQ. Drinking well now and will cellar for up to 15 years.

2 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin Cellar Door open for tastings 7 days 10am - 4pm Phone 4991 5456 www.kelmanvineyard.com.au 23 | AUGUST 2018 hvb

ENJOY NOW OR ENJOY LATER? That is the question!

Cellaring wines for ageing purposes is an enjoyable pastime, and there is a great deal of pleasure to be had in opening an aged, prized bottle of wine to find that it has aged just perfectly. On the other hand, there is nothing more disappointing than discovering that the special bottle you have been putting off drinking all these years is now undrinkable.

Unfortunately, the only way to know when wine is ready is to taste it.

The first thing to keep in mind is that not all wines improve with age - and the price is not always an indicator of a wines ageing potential.

Most wines are consumed within 12 to 18 months after production, and while some wines mature and become better over time, some don’t and need to be drunk within a few years. These wines lack the intensity and structure required for ageing.

Introducing the Hunter Valley's

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POKOL BIN ESTATE 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

hvb 24 | AUGUST 2018

A famous name on the label is also no guarantee that the wine will age well. The more tannins that the wine has, regardless of the brand or label, the better it will age. The average number of years for ageing white wines is between 5 to 7 years, but some red wines can be kept for 30 years or more.

Cellaring wines is not an exact science, and there are no hard and fast rules that determine which wines will age well. The most important factor is the conditions in which wine is stored. Wine should always be stored in a cool dark place at between 8-12⁰c for white wines and 1016⁰c for reds.

When it comes to selecting white wines to cellar, select young, balanced wines with intense flavours and prominent acidities such as Riesling, Hunter Semillon or Chardonnay.

There are many styles of red that age well. 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 colours. A rule of thumb for ageing Cabernet is up to 10 years, Merlot 4 - 7 years and Pinot Noir up to 5 years.

It can be difficult to explain to anyone who isn’t into wine exactly why cellaring is a fascinating and fun thing to do. For us, cellaring wine is about collecting memories that relate to holidays, experiences, friends and good times, that can often make them harder to open – but eventually, they’ve all got to be enjoyed.

25 | AUGUST 2018 hvb

of the

Rad Reds

HUNTER VALLEY

WORDS Quentin von Essen

If you live anywhere with a hint of a chill, chances are you’ve got red wine and a raging open fire on the brain!

Home to some of the oldest vines and biggest names in Australian wine, the Hunter Valley is a mecca for lovers of quality wine renowned for their thoroughly unique and distinctive style and ageing ability. Here you can find a diversity of red wines just perfect for those looking for something different.

SHIRAZ {aka Australia's favourite red variety}

Shiraz is by far Australia's most important red variety and is tremendously flexible in its ability to adapt to virtually any combination of climate and soil. The Shiraz grape is said to have originated from the Rhône wine-growing area of France but is now grown throughout the world and used primarily to produce powerful red wines, which can be both varietal or blended.

Shiraz is the Hunter's premium red variety and the most widely planted grape variety in Australia - currently representing 40% of the total red grape crush and constitutes one-fifth of all wine grape production 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.

Food Match: Shiraz is a good match with veal dishes, steak (especially peppery steaks), kangaroo, roast duck, Indian and Middles Eastern dishes, chocolate and smoked cheese. ►

hvb 26 | AUGUST 2018

CABERNET SAUVIGNON {The world's most loved red wine}

types and requires optimum growing conditions made up of warm days

Cabernet Sauvignon is the world's most recognised red grape variety famous for its ability to age for decades at a time. This classic red variety of Bordeaux is second only to Shiraz in importance in Australia.

Despite its prominence in the world of wine, the grape is a relatively new variety being the product of a chance crossing between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc sometime during the 17th century in southwestern France.

Cabernet Sauvignon wines can be medium to full bodied, typically leafy with ripe cassis-like flavours, well-structured and elegant and powerfully aromatic. The bouquet can be rich with fruity notes of black cherries and currants, herby notes of peppers and olives and spicy notes of ginger. Typically, this wine features naturally high levels of tannin, but barrel ageing allows for slow oxidation to reduce these levels and infuses the wine with its flavours.

Food match: Cabernet Sauvignon tends to overwhelm most foods, so it is best paired with rich, creamy dishes that will neutralise the tannins and bring forward the flavour of the wine. It also pairs well with grilled or roasted red meats such as lamb, beef or wild game. As well as with duck, roast chicken or a meaty fish like tuna and a variety of cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella and brie.

followed by cool evenings. Pinot Noir is also highly reflective of its terroir (more so than other black grape varieties), with different wine growing regions producing very different wines which makes vineyard site selection an important factor.

Described as "the most romantic of wines” due to its sensuous and PINOT NOIR {The most romantic of wines} Pinot Noir wines have been one of the strongest performing wines over gratifying perfume, Pinot Noir tends to be light to medium in body with the last ten years and considered by some to be the next “wine fashion” a broad range of textures and flavours, including a variety of complex aromas reminiscent of black or red cherry, raspberry, currant and - with plantings of pinot in Australia increasing from 4200ha in 2006 to blackberry.

4800ha in 2012.

Food Match: When it comes to food pairings, Pinot Noir goes well With its origins in France, the Pinot Noir grape is a light-skinned, with a wide variety of foods but is best suited to simple, rich foods. aromatic grape and one of the oldest grape varieties to be cultivated to Dishes that best demonstrate the delicacy and texture of this wine are make wine.

While widely considered to produce some of the finest wines in the grilled fish such as salmon or swordfish, roast beef, roast lamb, game world, it is just as well recognised for being a difficult variety to cultivate. bird and duck.

Pinot Noir is very sensitive to wind and frost, cropping levels and soil (Continued next page) ►

NEW!

Mystery Gin

Now Available!

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

27 | AUGUST 2018 hvb

TEMPRANILLO {Sexy and Spanish}

(continued)

MERLOT {The most pleasurable wine experience}

Merlot originates from Bordeaux in France, where it is often used to produce some of the world's most famous and most expensive wines.

In Australia, it is considered to be one of the most important red grape varieties - coming in 3rd after Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Merlot is renowned for its wonderfully fruity, well rounded, even fleshy character and is grown in just about every wine growing region of Australia. The summer heat of the Hunter 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 providing one of the most pleasurable wine experiences.

Food Match: One of the best qualities about Merlot is its ability to match well with many different types of food from roasted meats to Italian-style, red-sauced pasta or even salads. The agile sweet fruit characters of some Merlots are best to match with roasted poultry, steak and game meats, or slightly sweet meats such as ham or Mediterranean vegetables. For cheese or pâté, 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. Light bodied Merlots can go well with shellfish like prawns or scallops. Equally, it is a fine wine to enjoy on its own.

WINE M U I M PRE STING TA IENCE R E P X E IN NDAY

pm Y SU EVER m and 2.30 a 1 1 T S AUGU

Tempranillo (from the Spanish Temprano, meaning early) is a premium grape variety originating in the Rioja region of Spain where it is considered the “backbone” of the wines of the Rioja and the Ribera del Duero regions in Northern and Central Spain. In these regions, it is often blended with varieties such as Graciano, Grenache and to a lesser extent Cabernet Sauvignon.

Tempranillo wine is now being made in many wine regions throughout Australia - including the Hunter Valley and is said to be challenging Sangiovese as the up and coming red wine varietal in Australia.

What makes this variety so exciting is that it is easy drinking, medium to full-bodied wine with lower acidity and full fruit flavour that matches well with a wide range of foods. The wine itself, is ruby red, while the aroma and flavours can have characteristic of plum, cherry, strawberry and herb mixed with an earthiness.

In Australia, Tempranillo is less frequently bottled as a single varietal and being low in both acidity and sugar content is most commonly blended with Grenache and Shiraz (Syrah).

Food Match: Tempranillo wines are perhaps one of the most foodfriendly wines around. Spanish style dishes are the obvious food pairing such as tapas style dishes - chorizo sausage, olives, cured ham, goats cheese, pork, grilled or roasted entrees. Vegetable casseroles and grilled or roast lamb are also the ideal meals to accompany these wines.

PETIT VERDOT {A majestic wine}

The bold-yet-floral expression of Petit Verdot is something that all red wine enthusiasts should have the opportunity to try.

Originally from the Bordeaux region of France, it is most often used in the region's famous red blends to add a dark violet colour, sturdier tannins and concentrated fruit flavours.

In Australia, Petit Verdot is being planted in warmer climates such as the Hunter Valley where it produces full-bodied wines with concentrated flavours and integrated tannins. Here ripening on the vine is not such a problem and while still used in blends, it is increasingly bottled as a single varietal standalone wine.

The characters to look for in these exciting new wines are its intense colour, the wonderful fragrant nose, firm tannins and rich, vibrant blueberry flavour - making it a good choice for true red wine drinkers.

Food Match: When pairing Petit Verdot with food, keep the acid and tannin level of the variety in mind. Rich and strongly flavoured foods are the best matches so experiment with rich cuts of red meat or wild game.

Try with dishes such as mint/rosemary lamb, lamb shanks, venison, crispy skin duck, barbequed lamb chops, pork spare ribs and any other rich meats. Hearty casseroles, mature cheeses such as stilton and fruit cake also work well.

Visit us for your Premium wine tasting experience. Every Sunday in August at 11am and 2.30pm at our cellar door in Lovedale. Jorg Gartelmann will take you through a range of our premium wines and explain the process and history behind them.

Bookings are essential as these sessions do sell out quickly. The cost is $20 per person and all Gartelmann Club G Members are $15.

Ph (02) 4930 7113 701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale www.gartelmann.com.au

hvb 28 | AUGUST 2018

CHAMBOURCIN {Unique in so many ways}

Chambourcin is a relatively new purple skinned French-American hybrid grape that produces deep-coloured light to medium bodied wines with a full aromatic flavour, and no unpleasant hybrid flavours. It can be made into a dry style or one with a moderate residual sugar level, giving it a pleasant sweetness.

In Australia, the grape did not show up until the late 1970's and is now a widely used variety with an intense dark colour. This has led winemakers to use it to improve the depth of blended red wines without sacrificing the fruit quality of the main variety (e.g., Shiraz).

Some producers use the variety for sparkling reds, and it is also used successfully for port-style wines.

Because it is especially resistant to fungal diseases, Chambourcin is a variety that succeeds wonderfully in the Hunter Valley climate and is also most at home in the more humid regions of Coastal NSW and Queensland who all experience wet summers.

Chambourcin wines have a lovely, deep red colour. Most are big and fruity with a lot of raspberries, plums, prunes and even cranberries on the palate. It is not as heavy or robust as Shiraz or Cabernet Sauvignon, which can make it quite attractive to people who don't like red wine.

Chambourcin wines also respond well to being oaked, a treatment which can produce vanilla or mocha flavours in the wine.

Food Match: When it comes to food, Chambourcin is a very versatile wine that will pair well with lighter meats, pork, lamb, sausage, poultry, pasta, cheeses and chocolate (or desserts made from the chocolate).

SANGIOVESE {The pride of Tuscany}

Sangiovese is the most-planted red grape in Italy and is the most important grape variety used in the production of Tuscany's greatest red wines.

This star amongst Italian wine grape varieties is now making its mark in Australia where it has become increasingly popular over the last few decades. The variety also has a reputation for being adaptable to many types of vineyard soils and as such is considered suitable for cultivation in some Australian wine regions - such as the Hunter Valley, where it is fast gaining popularity, although vineyard area remains small.

The variety produces elegant medium-bodied wines with powerful aromas and with moderate to high natural acidity. The characteristic flavours are cherries, tomatoes, herbs, spices and tea-like flavours.

Australian Sangiovese wines tend to be a little fruitier, with riper flavours and higher alcohol.

Food Match: Like all Italian wines Sangiovese is extremely foodfriendly and works well with dishes containing tomatoes or acidic tomato sauces. White beans, mushrooms, and grilled red meat are also excellent partners with Sangiovese wines. Lighter styles of Sangiovese pair well with fish, especially grilled or roasted. It also goes well with chicken, pork, pasta, stews and well-aged cheeses. ■

“Largest beer range

Massive Wine Sale at The Garden Cellars $50 cases, $60 cases and $144 cases available throughout August.

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

29 | AUGUST 2018 hvb

Rad Reds KELMAN VINEYARD

ELBOURNE WINES

This is a very serious Tempranillo and our best yet! Produced entirely from 100% hand-picked Hunter Valley fruit sourced from the Kelman Vineyard in Pokolbin. 100% French oak maturation - 20% new. Kelman is a boutique winery producing quality wine since 1999.

TASTING This is black and red fruited with black cherries, blackberries and raspberries, and has excellent soft grippy tannins and great length. The traditional spice that one associates with this variety is evident.

FOOD MATCH Perfectly matched with lamb on the BBQ or other rich meats such as duck or pork. Or try with a rich meaty pasta ragout.

CELLARING Excellent drinking now and will reward cellaring for up to 10 years.

2017 was an outstanding Hunter vintage given the hot and dry conditions. Only 150 dozen cases of this high quality Shiraz were produced from single vineyard estate grown fruit. Hand pruned and handpicked to ensure exceptional quality.

TASTING Intense black/purple colour, with ripe dark fruits and pepper on the nose. A well structured and balanced palate, with loads of spice and layers to complement the outstanding fruit weight. Framed magnificently with skillful use of high quality French oak barriques. A big red, from a big Hunter vintage!

FOOD MATCH A perfect accompaniment to beef burgundy.

CELLARING Drink now or cellar for 25+ years.

Kelman 2017 Tempranillo RRP $24

HANGING TREE WINES

GARTELMANN WINES

Our Blacksmith’s cottage dates back to the turn of the 20th century and is a real piece of history. One that we proudly honour with this wine.

TASTING A well-constructed wine that delivers an immediate rich plum fruit bouquet and hints of an intriguing licorice background. The palate is firm with derived ripe plum, boysenberries and blackcurrant encased in creamy, vanillin oak. Superb length and perfectly balanced.

FOOD MATCH Perfectly matched with rich hearty meals like osso bucco & lamb shanks CELLARING Perfect to drink now or cellar through to 2025.

The Diedrich is our icon Shiraz, produced only in good vintages from old vines. The fruit is from 46 year old vines, Matured in a mixture of American and French oak for 14 months.

TASTING Vibrant Plum Colour Nose of Black Cherry, mulberry and fresh spices with hints of mocca. A medium to full bodied traditional Hunter Valley Style wine showing firm velvet tannins layered over flavours of blackcurrants and plum. Well integrated oak gives the wine structure and persistence of length.

FOOD MATCH Rare roast beef with red wine jus.

CELLARING Drink now or cellar to 2021.

2013 Blacksmith's Shiraz Cabernet RRP $65

hvb 30 | AUGUST 2018

2017 H.A.E Single Vineyard Shiraz RRP $44

2011 Diedrich Shiraz RRP $45

PETERSONS WINES

LUCY'S RUN WINES

Petersons Wines have been producing quality wines since 1981 and prides itself on tradition, family and friendly service.

TASTING A full bodied classic Australian Shiraz, dark and vibrant magenta in colour with blood red hues. The nose is rich and ripe with lifted aromas of cooked blackberry tart and hints of walnut and black pepper with nuances of freshly ground coffee. The front palate shows overtly ripe black and red fruit flavours, while the mid palate is complex showing characters of dark chocolate, black pepper and soy sauce. Back palate is long, soft, dry and firm with persistent sweet oak.

FOOD MATCH Enjoy with seared eye fillet of beef with hot English mustard, beef wellington, Pecorino cheese.

CELLARING Cellar for around 7 – 8 years.

Continuing a history of producing highest quality single vineyard grapes, Lucy’s Run 2017 The Mike Shiraz boldly follows on from our 2016 Shiraz (two silver medals) and 2014 Shiraz (two trophies/top gold medal).

Newly released, this wine is drinking beautifully; many have already recognised another classic Hunter Shiraz from this excellent vintage, and have bagged some for their cellars. Why the name? … it’s a nod to this wine’s maker: Mike De Iuliis!

TASTING Deep ruby in colour, The Mike is a complex Shiraz bringing a full and concentrated flavour with notes of black fruits and cassis.

FOOD MATCH Braised lamb shanks, duck, beef/venison fillet, boeuf bourgignon.

CELLARING Drinking very well now, or cellar for up to 15 years.

2015 Pressings Shiraz RRP $50

2017 The Mike Shiraz RRP $35

SAVANNAH ESTATE

ASCELLA ORGANIC WINES

Located in picturesque Mount View, Savannah Estate produce wines from small select parcels of premium fruit grown in renowned viticulture regions throughout Australia.

TASTING The palate is ripe, generous, appealing and soft. The upfront fruit flavours are of fruits of the forest and boysenberry.

This is supported by nutty, creamy, almost smoked oak flavours. There are also hints of earth and game. The back palate is long soft and dry with a persistent natural acidity.

FOOD MATCH Vietnamese style pork belly, roast pheasant, cumberland sausages with potato mash and an onion gravy, Hunter Belle Cheddarbelle.

CELLARING Drink now or cellar up to 7 years.

Located in the Broke Fordwich wine region, Ascella Organic Wines is the largest certified organic vineyard in the Hunter Valley.

“Ascella” is a pair of independent stars in the Zodiac reputed to give happiness and good fortune. The stars shine brightly over the vineyard as the grapes are picked in the cool of the night to assure freshness and great tasting wine.

TASTING This is a superb Hunter Valley Shiraz, well rounded with hints of mulberries and blackcurrant. Intense fruit flavours with a fresh spicy tannin. This is a wine that leaves you wanting more.

FOOD MATCH Wonderfully matched to lean cuts of meat, lamb or duck dishes and strong cheddar cheese.

CELLARING Drink now or cellar for up to 15 years.

2016 Premium Chambourcin RRP $70

2017 Hunter Valley Reserve Shiraz RRP $37.50

31 | AUGUST 2018 hvb

3

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Capercaillie Wines

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Hunter Valley Resort Hunter Valley Wine Theatre Hunter Valley Wine School

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Local’s Night August 12 at the The Verandah Restaurant (I13)

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Ben Ean Baumé Café, Restaurant & Bar

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33 | AUGUST 2018 hvb

Before You Go...

RED RULES What’s that? Wine is not only delicious, but it can also be good for you?

If you are a wine lover, you probably don’t need an excuse to open a bottle, but let’s face it, knowing the contents just may be good for your health (when consumed in moderation), has to be a bonus. Who does not want to be more creative, have a healthier heart or even lose a bit of weight?

Here are just a few health advantages associated with wine consumption that’s going to make that next glass even more pleasurable:

Wine Burns Fat

Fantastic news for those of us who like second and even third helpings.

Researchers have found that ellagic acid, which is found in grapes, dramatically slows the growth of existing fat cells and the formation of new ones, boosting the metabolism of fatty acids in liver cells.

Wine Makes You Smarter

Exactly what we've been thinking all along! Make sure you take that bottle of wine to the next brainstorming session. Recent studies at the University of Illinois, Chicago, show that a few glasses of wine relaxes our brain and allows us to think more clearly, and even assist in creative problem-solving.

Wine Helps with Diabetes

Is it the wine, the water or the food? In a study of over 200 type 2 diabetes patients who regularly consume a Mediterranean diet, the patients who also drank a 150ml glass of red wine with dinner had higher HDL Cholesterol levels, than those who did not (instead they drank mineral water). Since HDL cholesterol is the well-behaved "good cholesterol," this friendly scavenger cruises the bloodstream removing harmful bad cholesterol from where it doesn't belong. High HDL levels, therefore, reduce the risk for heart disease whereas low levels increase the risk. Good news right?

LET it BREATHE!

Simply uncorking a bottle of wine and allowing it to sit for a while to aerate is futile, as there is not enough surface area at the top of the bottle to permit adequate amounts of air to make contact with the wine.

If you want to aerate your wine, pour the wine into a decanter or any glass container large enough to hold the contents of the entire bottle.

hvb 34 | AUGUST 2018

The increased surface area is the key to allowing more air to make contact with your wine. Alternatively, pour some of the wine into large wine glasses at least ten minutes before you plan to drink it.

Once decanted, give it a vigorous swirl or two to ensure all the aromas open up.

The term “breathing” refers to the process of aerating the wine – exposing it to the air by decanting it. The aeration process stimulates the wine to soften any tannins and release the wine’s bouquet and flavour, making the wine taste less astringent and more complex than it would have tasted right out of the bottle.

Which Wines Need to Breathe? Typically red wines benefit most from breathing before serving.

However, there are select whites and some dessert wines that will also improve with as little as 15-20 minutes of aeration time.

As a general rule, most tannic, young red wines soften up with one hour of aeration. That is not to say you cannot drink it as soon as it is opened, but for best results aeration is recommended.

Mature wines (8+ years) are another story altogether as they gain most from aeration. The older and more delicate the wine is, the faster it will deteriorate after being exposed to air. This is because if it has been under cork, it may have been breathing – albeit slowly, for years.

Aeration isn’t the only reason to decant red wines as many develop sediment after about eight years of age. It is recommended to remove the sediment before drinking because it can taste very bitter and doesn’t look very appetising.

HUNTER VALLEY

CHEESE FACTORY

HUNTER VALLEY VINEYARDS BOUTIQUE CHEESERY Regional Hunter Valley Cheesemakers “making” artisan handmade cheese to compliment the world renown local wine varietals.

• Exclusive House Range of regional and housemade selection of oils, olives, chutneys, conserves and dressings.

• Cheeserooms open daily for cheese tastings and lunches or charcuterie and regional produce tasting/purchases.

• Hot/Cold Beverages & Wine available to enjoy with your tasting or cheeseboard.

• Educational Cheesemaking Tutorial and a tasting of our highly

awarded Hunter Gold Washed Rind on the day. Complimentary at 11am and 3pm daily.

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

www.huntervalleycheese.com.au

SHOP Australian Alpaca Barn brea + lulu Exclusive Diamond Co. Candelabra Hunter Valley Christmas Shop Hunter Valley Gift & Crystal Shop Peppers Creek Antiques The Twig The Waiterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Friend Village Books Wison & Hunter Wine Glass Gallery

EAT Cupcake Espresso Oscars Hunter Valley Taste of the Country The Cellar Restaurant

PAMPER Jolie Hair Makeup Beauty

SAVOUR Hunter Valley Chocolate Company KissOfire The British Lolly Shop The Garden Cellars Hunter Honey Hive

ESSENTIALS Pokolbin Farm Shop Pokolbin Village Pharmacy

PLAY Aqua Golf and Putt Putt

2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

huntervalleygardensshopping.com.au