The Hunter Blackboard | January 2016 by WCP MEDIA

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

JA N UA RY 2 0 1 6 | I S S U E # 1 0 7

BLACKBOARD

Summer

MustTry

WINES OF OUR TIME

FOOD TRENDS FOR 2016 IS SMALLER BETTER?

THE HUNTER BLACKBOARD IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH...

FOR YOUR DIARY

January

UNTIL TUESDAY 26TH JANUARY | CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SPECTACULAR | Hunter Valley Gardens | Every year Hunter Valley Gardens bring thousands

of families together to celebrate the magic of Christmas at the Christmas Lights Spectacular. Open every night with over 1.5 million Christmas lights on show throughout designated areas of the Hunter Valley Gardens. With sound and light displays, live entertainment, food and beverages available for purchase on site, this is an event for all ages. For more information and tickets visit www.hvg.com.au

2ND - 26TH JANUARY | MEGA CREATURES | Hunter Valley Gardens

PUBLISHED BY: WCP Media

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: PH +61 2 4943 2888 HunterValleyOnline.com.au enquiries@wcpmedia.com.au WCP MEDIA Suite 4, 2 Smith St, Charlestown, NSW 2290 January 2016. Copyright © 2016 WCP Media. Published monthly by WCP Media. All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpt granted by written request only. While every attempt has been made, WCP Media cannot guarantee the legality, completeness or accuracy of the information presented and accepts no warranty or responsibility for such.

SPECIAL OFFERS AVAILABLE

from 1st January 2016 until the 31st January 2016 inclusive or while stocks last.

Do your kids love all things creepy crawly? Or maybe they are fascinated by prehistoric predators? During the January school holidays, Hunter Valley Gardens will become home to Mega Creatures! See giant animatronic Mega Bugs such as beetles, centipedes, cicadas and snails and the brand new Mega Dinosaurs including a T-Rex, Stegosaurus, Triceratops and loads more. The Mega Creatures event is run in conjunction with the Christmas Lights Spectacular and is open from 9am - 4pm and 6.30pm - 1pm every day. Discover the world of Mega Creatures by taking advantage of two family friendly events for the price of one. For more information visit www.hvg.com.au

SUNDAY 10TH JANUARY | HI-5 SUMMER SONGFEST | Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley | Come and party with Hi-5 these school holidays with their

brand new show Hi-5 Summer Songfest! The whole Hi-5 team will host an exclusive performance at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley that will bring laughter and enjoyment to the whole family. This Songfest extravaganza will include all your favourite Hi-5 songs so get your dancing shoes ready to groove to Hi-5 hits like It’s a Party, Underwater Discovery and L.O.V.E. For more information visit www.crowneplazahuntervalley.com.au

15TH TO 24TH JANUARY | CIRQUE DU SOLEIL - QUIDAM | Newcastle Entertainment Centre | Since premiering under the Big Top

in Montreal in 1996, Quidam has captivated millions of people across five continents. The show invites you into a world more exotic than your wildest imagination; a dramatic mix of circus arts and street entertainment brought to life around the globe by 1300 artists hailing from more than 50 different countries. And for 10 days, that world will be brought to life when Cirque du Soleil stage 11 shows of Quidam at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre. To purchase tickets visit www.ticketek.com.au

TUESDAY 26TH JANUARY | AUSTRALIA DAY CELEBRATIONS | Civic Centre, Singleton | Celebrate Australia Day 2016 in Singleton with markets

GET MOBILE!

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

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and entertainment on the Civic Centre Green and the Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony at the Civic Centre. Live performances will be held celebrating a mix of cultures and styles and there will be a variety of market stalls and food stalls operating throughout the day, including craft, clothing and a variety of other interesting wares. Food stalls will offer a delicious choice of healthy food options. For more information visit www.singleton.nsw.gov.au

FRIDAY 29TH JANUARY | CINEMA UNDER THE STARS | Allan Bull Reserve, Singleton | Newcastle Permanent's Cinema Under the Stars is

Australia’s largest regional outdoor cinema program and entry is FREE! So gather your friends and family together to relax with a picnic as the sun sets over Allan Bull Reserve and the screen lights up for ‘Home’! The night begins at 5.30pm with a fantastic line-up of entertainment including the energetic Matt Zarb, who will have everyone up and dancing before the movie screening at sundown. For more information visit www.newcastlepermanent.com.au/cinema WANT MORE? Keep up to date with events in the Hunter by visiting www.huntervalleyonline.com.au

FROM THE EDITORS Summer is now well and truly upon us and as always, Hunter Valley Gardens swing into action with fun outdoor activities for the kids. Do your kids love all things creepy crawly? Or maybe they are fascinated by prehistoric predators? During the January school holidays, Hunter Valley Gardens will become home to Mega Creatures when they host the biggest display of animatronic bugs and dinosaurs in Australia. Of course, the Christmas Lights Spectacular continues until the 26th of January as well - so you can enjoy two events for the price of one! This months "Summer Issue" of The Hunter Blackboard is also full of the things we like to do most of at this time of the year and that is celebrate, eat great food and drink superb wines. Get adventurous and try out a few different and delectable wine varieties. Although they may be the new kids on the Hunter block – they may just be the next wine trends of 2016. Speaking of trends, we also look at food trends that will tempt the palates of food lovers in 2016. Crank up the BBQ, stop by the shops for some seaweed and don’t forget to share – these are all major trends for the coming year. Nothing says "Summer" quite like ice cream and if your tastebuds are set to ice cream "connoisseur" status then you will not be disappointed by our 5 Scoops of Summer tour of the Hunter Valley.

Of course, this is the Hunter Valley – so you will need to be prepared for drinking wine with your ice cream delight! Typically the domain of the family kitchen table, shared dishes, or divvy dishes, are becoming a popular way of eating at some of the most sophisticated restaurants in Australia and chefs throughout the country are embracing this trend by introducing tapas style menus and offerings. Find out why in this issue. We also look at the increasingly popular variety – Viognier. A wine like no other, Viognier has, in a relatively short period of time, become the choice of drinkers and growers alike. The last decade has seen a massive increase in Viognier production throughout the world and is currently considered a real challenger to Chardonnay. Finally, in this issue we find out about Ken and Gwen Sloan – owners of Mistletoe Winery. They are certainly living the dream and creating some of the region’s most awarded and talked about wines from their 5.5 hectare vineyard on Hermitage Road in Pokolbin.

H U N T E R

V A L L E Y

Dine at the divine Circa 1876 until the 31st of January 2016 with our brilliant two course special. For only $65 per person you will be treated to two unique courses and a glass of house wine per person. Sumptuous, delicious dishes at an exceptional price!

Enjoy!

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

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Contents 6

ARE WE A NATION OF COFFEE SNOBS?

Is this simply misguided patriotism, outright coffee snobbery or is there something really special about Australian coffee?

MUST TRY WINES OF OUR TIME

2016 FOOD TRENDS

HUNTER BLACKBOARD MAP

A COOL WAY TO EAT THIS SUMMER

JOURNEY TO THE HUNTER VALLEY

These wine varieties you may have never tried or maybe even never heard of. These relatively new wine varieties to the Hunter Valley will change the way you think about wine…

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

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

Kale, quinoa and coconut water are so 2015! We take a look at what food trends will be dominating the food scene in 2016.

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

Share plates or tapas style menus are undeniably the coolest way to eat this summer…

Ken and Gwen Sloan, owners of Mistletoe Winery, are living the dream creating award-winning wines, but it was a long journey for the Sloan Family to make their way to the Hunter Valley.

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

WHAT’S HOT IN THE HUNTER HUNTER HONEY HIVE

Offering more than just HONEY Another new tasting experience in the Hunter - and we are definitely not complaining! The Hunter Honey Hive offers not only honey, but also quality cosmetic, soap and health products, plus more. Their honeys are cold extracted, meaning they not only taste just as the bees intended, but can help improve your immune system and overall health. With over 100 varieties on display, and at least 20 available for tasting daily, there's no reason not to visit. Have you tried Chilli Garlic Honey before? Well now you know where to go! WHERE Hunter Honey Hive, in Ye Olde General Store, Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village. PH 4998 7191. See more of their range at www.facebook.com/hunterhoneyhive

MORE TO LOVE

at ADINA VINEYARD Short on time, or just don't know what to buy? Adina Vineyard has a delicious and diverse range of condiments, olives and olive oils alongside their quality wines on Lovedale Road. Try their premium Lemon Myrtle Extra Virgin Olive Oil, or maybe their Sticky Fig and Shiraz Paste while you visit! What's better, they offer gift packs with a select range of their amazing products. The 'Almost Traditional' gift pack shown here is the perfect choice for the aperitif plate alongside crusty bread, and a glass of (Adina) red.

SUNDAY UNVINED at the OYSTER BAR, Peterson House

Live music overlooking the vines at the Peterson House Oyster Bar with you guessed it - oysters! Also take your pick of prawns, cheese/antipasto platters, beer, cider, sparkling or wine. Relax and enjoy live local tunes from 11am to 3pm on the Cellar Doors Deck. WHERE Peterson House - Corner of Broke Road and Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7881. www.petersonhouse.com.au

Note: If buying as a gift, we recommend grabbing another for taste-testing purposes! WHERE Adina Vineyard, 492 Lovedale Road, Lovedale, PH 4930 7473. Buy online at www.adinavineyard.com.au

RS EDPITI O CK JA N U A R

SUNDAY BREAKFAST SORTED at THE DECK CAFÉ Located at Gartelmann Wines on Lovedale Road, Lovedale, The Deck Café is our pick for breakfast on a lazy Sunday, or any day really! With a diverse menu complimented by Piazza D'oro coffee (or Gartelmann wines when it's appropriate), the cafe brings a finedining twist to cafe favourites. Great views accompany a delicious experience in what is one of the most deservingly popular spots in the Hunter, run by local renowned chef Matt Dillow. WHERE Gartelmann Wines, 701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale. PH 4930 9007 www.deckcafelovedale.com.au

Eggs Benedict

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WHEN Open for breakfast and lunch. Monday - Friday 8.30am - 3.30pm, Saturday and Sunday 8am - 3.30pm.

HANDS ON

Pasta and Sushi CLASSES Learn how to make fresh pasta the traditional way. Sandalyn's relaxed, Tuscan inspired classes share the time-honoured techniques and tricks of creating mouthwatering pasta, in a fun way! A leisurely two-course alfresco lunch then follows, where you can enjoy your hand-made pasta in Sandalyn Estate's beautiful garden. A recent addition are Sunday Sushi Classes for the seafood lovers. Perfect as a gift, corporate team building or just a fun activity with friends. Bookings are essential. WHERE Sandalyn Estate, 162 Wilderness Road, Lovedale. PH 4930 7611 or email wine@sandalyn.com.au for more info. www.sandalyn.com.au

School Holiday Fun

Mega Creatures! Do your kids love all things creepy crawly? Or maybe they are fascinated by prehistoric predators? These school holidays, Hunter Valley Gardens will become home to Mega Creatures! Now in its second year, the event will showcase some of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest animatronic Mega Bugs, and this year the event will also feature Mega Dinosaurs! Sure to excite, the world of Mega Creatures will invite you to get up close and personal with over 20 critters and creatures as they take form and come to life. Displaying everything from crawling bugs, to a giant snail, praying mantis, centipede, a staggering T-Rex, and an enormous Stegosaurus, plus many more. Mega Creatures will run in the day time and night time from the 2nd â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 26th of January 2016, offering the perfect family-friendly outing. The Mega Creatures event is run in conjunction with the Christmas Lights Spectacular and is open from 9.00am - 4pm and 6.30pm - 10.00pm every day. Discover the world of Mega Creatures and take advantage of two family friendly events for the price of one.

Night Entry to Mega Creatures and Christmas Lights Spectacular: Adult $27.00 Child (4-15 years) $22.00 Child (3 years and under) FREE Family (2 adults + 2 children) $85.00 Extra Child (with Family Pass) $20.00

For more information visit www.hvg.com.au. In the event of wet weather, please visit the Hunter Valley Gardens Facebook or Twitter page or contact Hunter Valley Gardens to find out if the Christmas Lights Spectacular will be open.

Day + Night Adult $48.00 Day + Night Child $24.00 Day + Night Family $134.00

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DAY & NIGHT EVENT

INCLUD ING Immerse yourself in the land of the Mega Creatures at Hunter Valley Gardens these January school holidays! See the giant animatronic Mega Bugs and the brand new Dinosaurs including a T-Rex, Stegosaurus, Triceratops, Spinosaurus and loads more. Evening session runs in conjunction with the Christmas Lights Spectacular.

For details and online tickets visit - www.hvg.com.au

#ChristmasLightsSpectacular

Broke Road Pokolbin - Ph: 02 4998 4000 Admission charges apply. Gardens open 9am - 4pm, 6.30pm - 10.00pm. You must exit the Gardens between day and evening session. Lights display from 7.30pm. This event will not open in adverse weather conditions. Program subject to change, check social media for updates.

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Are we a Nation of

COFFEE SNOBS...

or Simply Connoisseurs?

It’s a common complaint amongst Australians travelling overseas. Regardless of our destination we struggle to find a decent cup of coffee and find ourselves reminiscing fondly about our local coffee bar and that regularly ordered espresso or cappuccino. Inevitably, this is setting us up for disappointment. Yes – the coffee in England is bad – really bad, as is the coffee in China, Japan and Germany and of course, America. Oh – yes that is bad! Is this simply misguided patriotism, outright coffee snobbery or is there something really special about Australian coffee?

Australia’s coffee industry apart from the rest is the vast number of independents. Although the Starbucks franchise has had significant success in most countries, it has been unable to capture the Australian market - having to shut down 61 of its 85 Australian outlets in 2008, citing “business challenges unique to the Australian market.” No doubt one of those challenges was Australian’s love of good coffee and independent cafés. We have even taken our coffee offshore with Australia's successful Toby's Estate coffee brand opening an outlet in Brooklyn's hip Williamsburg precinct in New York in 2012. They then went on to win the New York Coffee Guide Awards six months later.

Australia has, in a relatively short period of time, become a land of coffee Want more evidence of our snobbishness? There are cafés in both obsessives, a nation of people willing to announce to all and sundry that London and New York that have been known to advertise for baristas our coffee is better than others. We drink flat whites and long blacks, with Australian experience. Not Italians, not French – just Aussies (oh cold drip and single origin, lattes and cappuccinos – and if our preferred barista at our favourite local coffee shop is not working that day, well we - and Kiwis!). And you can bet that their clientele is largely made up of expats and tourists getting their fill of a decent flat white or long black. just keep on walking. That’s obsessive right? We might have come to the party relatively late, however you will be pleased to know that coffee connoisseurs internationally agree that Australians really do have some of the best coffee in the world. Australians now also compete in international coffee competitions. In fact, in the past three decades, Australian baristas have made it to the top three spots in the World Barista Championship (WBC) - considered to be the most prestigious coffee competition in the world. For the doubters, when Time Magazine published its top 5 coffee cities to visit, Melbourne was the only modern city listed –right up there alongside those great and historic coffee destinations that include Istanbul, Rome and Vienna. So, when did this all start? In real terms, our coffee culture is a very recent phenomenon. In the early 1900’s, Greek immigrants to Sydney and Melbourne began to open cafés where they would serve cups of coffee using locally roasted beans. Interestingly, what really drove coffee consumption in Australia was the huge wave of Italian immigration in the 1950’s and 1960’s and with them came a love for espresso. In the early 1950’s, fine Italian coffee houses with their espresso machines began to pop up in Sydney and Melbourne. Pellegrini’s Espresso Bar and Legend Café claim to be Melbourne’s first real espresso bars with the former opening in 1954 and the latter just two years later. We know the difference between a good coffee and a bad coffee and while many café industries around the world are doing well, what sets

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Of course there are exceptions. Dare I say it… but the coffee in New Zealand is equally as satisfying and it is claimed by many that the coffee culture in Vietnam is almost as good as ours. The Italians, obviously, know their way around an espresso machine and Argentina is also a great destination for great tasting coffee. The jury is still out on France… London may have their pubs on every corner, but we can claim a café on every corner and then another two in between. With a population of just over 23 million people, the overwhelming number of independent coffee bars and cafés is just not sustainable and has led to a fiercely competitive market. What was once a battle over price and equipment has now become a battle over quality. And the winner is? The consumer of course! Today’s consumer has just a short walk to find some of the best quality coffee in the world. And let’s face it – life is too short for bad coffee.

Looking for a great cup of Coffee in the Hunter Valley?

Try Hunter Valley Chocolate Co at 2320 Broke Road Pokolbin and also at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village. Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar has two outlets, one on Broke Road in Pokolbin and the other on Wilderness Road in Lovedale. There’s also PK’s on Pokolbin near the Visitor Information Centre and Epicure Café on McDonald’s Road in Pokolbin. At Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village there is And the Winner is Oscars, Hunter Valley Cupcakes & Café and Taste of the Country.

The Hunter's

Biggest Beer Garden

on the beautiful rolling lawns at Hope Estate. What better way to celebrate the return of warm weather than kicking back with a tasting paddle of craft beer made on-site at Hope Estate? With 12 beers on tap there's something for everyone. It’s a family-friendly vibe, with live music every Saturday & Sunday. Entry is free except for the Rob Thomas Concert (Saturday 27th February) - you will have to buy a ticket that day. Hospitality packages are still available for Rob Thomas Concert with guest Pete Murray on Saturday 27th February. For more information or bookings go to www.hopeestate.com.au or call 1800 777 444.

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

CAMPBELLS STORE Morpeth

Free Ginger Beer, Fudge & Honey Tasting awaits you at Campbell’s Store, Morpeth. Campbell’s Store is the Hunter Valley’s ultimate unique shopping destination & foodies paradise. A leisurely 45 minute drive from Hunter Wine Country, the 175 year old Campbell’s Store houses 10 speciality shops, investment Australian art gallery, collectors museum & tearoom all under one roof. OPEN Thursday – Sunday & most Public Holidays 10am – 5pm. (Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day & Boxing Day)

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

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

PETERSON HOUSE PREMIUM SPARKLING WINES

Cellar Door Open 7 days 9am-5pm

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

Australian Premium Sparkling Wines

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

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GETTING AROUND

se Your Own Adventure! Choo

Hop-on + Hop-off with iHOP! At last! A Hunter Valley bus service for those that want to explore at their own pace! Tim and Kristy Burness have been regular visitors to the Hunter Valley over the past 8 years exploring through self-drive tours, chartered tour services and even walking between cellar doors. However, each visit they felt they never got the most out of their short trips as there was no affordable transport service that allowed them to really explore all the regions attractions in their own time. "Drawing from this and our own personal experience with what we would be looking for in the way of a tour/transport options, we came up with the concept of a Hop-On Hop-Off service where you can plan your own tour and 'Explore Your Way' using the service that works best for you," says Kristy. Tim and Kristy having always wanting to go into business together, decided to quit their successful careers in IT and finance and in June 2015, iHop Hunter Valley was launched. iHop Hunter Valley is Wine Country’s only hop-on-hop-off bus service allowing you to plan your own tour by hopping on and off as many times as you like throughout the day. Operating 6 days per week (Wednesday to Monday) the iHop bus service loops hourly, picking you up and dropping you off at 13 hops (stops) giving you access to some of the best attractions in Wine Country, without worrying about who will be designated driver. iHop Hunter Valley provides visitors with a low-cost option to experience the best in local produce, cellar doors, restaurants, shopping and local attractions. There are also many different affordable ticket options including a one-day, two day, one-way or return passes available. So what does the future hold for iHop Hunter Valley? Tim said "whilst we have only been operating for 6 months, ideally the big picture plan is to hopefully grow the business by adding more timetables and therefore more buses, as well as some other exciting plans we have in the pipe line!" Bookings are recommended to guarantee your seat, with bookings by phone or online at www.ihophuntervalley.com.au

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Explore picturesque Pokolbin aboard the Hunter Valleys only hop-on hop-off bus service and experience the best in local produce, cellar doors, breweries, distillery, shopping, restaurants and local attractions via 13 hops (stops) and over 40 attractions! • Operates 6 days per week, rain, hail or shine! (Wed-Mon) • No time limit with each stop, explore in your time! • No pre-bookings required! (subject to seating availability) • Payments by Cash, Eftpos, Visa and Mastercard • Pick up points near many hotels/resorts in the area • Low cost all-inclusive day pass or two day pass, one-way and return passes, accommodation transfers and charters available. • Securely store your purchases on board whilst exploring!

PH 0455 535 035 explore@ihophuntervalley.com.au www.ihophuntervalley.com.au

iHOP DAY PRICING Adult Day Hopper $35/Adult Two-Day Hopper $60 Children Day Hopper (4 – 12 years) $25 Family Day Hopper $110/Family Two-Day Hopper $200 (2 Adults plus 2 Children)

iHOP SINGLE/RETURN PRICING Adult One Way Hop $9/Adult Return Hop $15 Children One Way Hop (4 – 12 years) $6/Children Return Hop $10

iHOP DESTINATIONS Hop 1 Potters Hotel Brewery Resort Hop 2 Hunter Valley Visitor Centre Hop 3 Hungerford Hill Wines; hop off here for Peterson House Hop 4 Hunter Valley Chocolate Company; hop off here for Lambloch Estate, Sabor Dessert Bar Hop 5 Pokolbin Village & Accommodation; hop off here for Hope Estate Hop 6 Shopping Village at Hunter Valley Gardens; hop off here for Hunter Valley Gardens Hop 7 Glandore Estate; hop off here for De luliis Wines, Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen & Euro-deli Café and Oakvale Wines. Hop 8 Tuscany Wine Estate Resort; hop off here for Matilda Bay Brewhouse and Hunter Valley Resort Hop 9 Leogate Estate Wines; hop off here for Hunter Distillery and Thomas Allen Wines Hop 10 Harrigan's Irish Pub & Accommodation Hop 11 Lindemans; hop off here for Gundog Estate Wines Hop 12 McGuigan Wines; hop off here for Hunter Valley Cheese Factory and Oishii at Roche Estate Hop 13 Tower Estate Wines; hop off here for Kevin Sobels Wines, Handmade Hunter Markets and Blaxlands Inn

7th+28th

BROKE V I L L AG E

FEB

9AM TO 2PM •Gourmet Foods •Farmers Produce •Boutique Wine •Handmade Gifts •Novelties •BBQ

Check out whats happening on

Hermitage Road Hunter Valley

Reflections Day Spa DELUXE TASTING PACKAGE

30min Massage + 30min Facial + 30min Pedicure

$149 (normally $207)

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

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

NEW MATILDA BAY BREWHOUSE HUNTER VALLEY Winemakers say, “It takes alot of great beer to make a Hunter wine...” What better way to finish off a hard day of wine-tasting than with a cleansing ale. We have 12 amazing craft beers for you to look at, analyse and taste… experience the unique Beer Tasting Paddle with tasting notes.

NEW LA GLACE GOURMET PRODUCE & DESSERT BAR La Glace is the oldest and probably best confectionary in Denmark. Founded in the middle of old Copenhagen in 1870, it has through six generations delivered joy and quality to Copenhagen and its visitors. In the best of Danish tradition, please come in and visit La Glace Dessert Bar at Hunter Valley Resort for the freshest Ice Creams, Chocolate, Cakes, and of course coffee. Did we mention our range of gourmet produce?

NEW SEGWAY TOURS The Hunter Valley has finally got a guided Segway Tour. Explore this historic region famous for its world class wine on your very own Segway! This amazing adventure starts off at the brewhouse at Hunter Valley Resort, before entering the off road tracks / trails of this vast bush land property and travelling along an old 1880’s stock route. So make sure you bring your camera, it’s an experience not to be missed! HUNTER WINE THEATRE At 11am & 2pm, see the 15 min movie following a grape through the winemaking process into the bottle. The wine tutorial afterwards is a must do. Groups welcome. HERMITAGE ROAD CELLARS 49 different wines from 12 small Hunter producers, all at the one Cellar Door. Must be the largest selection of wines in the Hunter.

BINNORIE CHEESE DAIRY Arguably the best locally made cheeses in the area. You have not experienced the best cheese the Hunter has to offer if you miss this place. HUNTER VALLEY WINE SCHOOL Every day at 9am, the 2 hour Wine School includes a Vineyard inspection, experience the winemaking process, learn how to taste and blend wines. Finally, a personalised Wine Appreciation Certificate. Bookings essential. HEAVENLY HUNTER MASSAGES Sally Margan’s Heavenly Hunter Massage Centre – the name says it all… Book in a Hawaiian Ka huna today. Bookings essential. BIG KIDS CANDY MAKING Make Rocky Road from scratch.

BARRETT’S CHARTER COACHES

HUNTER VALLEY - NEWCASTLE - LAKE MACQUARIE

MAKE OUR BUSES YOUR PLAN B!

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

WINE COUNTRY HORSERIDING Pokolbin’s only horseriding

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

Broke Road

Hunter Gardens/ Cessnock Deasys Road

www.kitchenerbusdepot.com

Old No

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

Singleton/ Branxton

Mistletoe Lane

H ermitage Road

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

d Roa rth

HUNTER VALLEY RESORT

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

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

New England Highway

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Must Try

WINES OF OUR

TIME

thb 10 | JANUARY 2016

TOP TO BOTTOM: Mistletoe Winery's 2014 Hunter Fiano, Bimbadgen Estate's 2015 Hunter Vermentino, Audrey WilkInson's 2014 Hunter Tempranillo and Pokolbin Estate's 2009 Hunter Nebbiolo.

Never mind the wines you already know; try the ones you don't know. With so many different wine varieties available to us today, the world of wines is an adventurous, rich and wonderful world filled with everything from the subtlety of a big Australian Shiraz to the spiciness of a Spanish Sangiovese or the softness of an early drinking Chenin Blanc. Wine varieties, local and foreign, are far more accessible than ever before and with the increased demand, the supply of wine has soared, allowing for inexpensive and delicious wines available for all to enjoy. For many, choosing a wine can be a confronting and even confusing exercise. With a seemingly endless number of wine varieties to choose from, where do you begin? How do you properly enjoy a red or white and with what meals would they be best served? If you really love wine and you perhaps reach a little too often for that familiar variety, then why not branch out and explore other varieties that you are less familiar with.

grape of Sardinia. It is a late-ripening grape variety which loves a hot dry climate, and therefore a natural choice for the Hunter Valley. Vermentino also has the ability to produce wines with firm acidity and good flavour even under the hot conditions experienced in some recent vintages. When it comes to food, the wines are robust and can be enjoyed with a variety of well flavoured foods such as antipasto platters or strongly flavoured seafood dishes. More broadly you can choose any of the foods of the Western Mediterranean, including Italian, Provencal or Catalan. Where to find it? Vermentino can be found at just a few Hunter Valley cellar doors that include Bimbadgen Estate, First Creek Wines, Tallavera Grove, Petersons Wines, Pepper Tree Wines and De Bortoli.

NEBBIOLO is a red wine that was born in the mountains of northern Italy in the region of Piedmont – a region that is famous for its Barolo and Barbaresco wine. What many people do not know is that Nebbiolo is the sole grape used to make these high-end wines.

Choose a variety you want to explore and have fun learning about. In In Australia this variety, like many other Italian wine varieties, is other words, pick a wine that is made from a type of grape that you attracting some interest. would like to learn more about. You will find that by learning about the flavours of your chosen grape, you will better understand what it is about One of the most beautiful aspects of Nebbiolo is its scent — the wine actually smells of roses. This makes the wine wonderful for celebrating the variety that you like most. special occasions, and perfect for the decanter. The upside is that there is a very real possibility that you will have a new In addition, the wine has a great amount of acidity, mouth-drying tannins candidate for your 'familiar wines' list. and earthy flavours that are superb with all types of food – especially Here are a few hard to find wines that are relatively new to the Hunter roast rack of lamb, braised duck leg ragu or a rich mushroom lasagna. As Valley wine scene, but are well worth finding and trying out. a general rule of thumb, any dish served with mushrooms is suitable with Nebbiolo. Other suggested food matches for Nebbiolo include grilled FIANO has been cultivated in southern Italy for over two thousand steak, slow cooked winter casseroles and game. years and its best-known wine is Fiano di Avellino, which is produced in the Campania region of Italy. The grape is low yielding and early ripening and produces crisp, well-balanced wines, often with hints of honey and nuts.

Where to find it? Nebbiolo can be found at Pokolbin Estate on McDonalds Road.

TEMPRANILLO is the premium red wine grape variety from the Rioja While it is a relatively new variety to the Hunter Valley and also Australia, Region in Spain. It is also grown in many other wine regions in Spain and Fiano is a grape-growers dream and perfect for the Hunters tough although a relative newcomer is also grown in wine regions throughout growing conditions. This Campania native loves warm weather and Australia. ripens late in the growing season, producing perfectly balanced fruit with What makes this variety so exciting is that it makes wines which have little fuss in the vineyard. Fiano is also drought tolerant and resistant to good colour and fruit flavours along with low acid and low tannins. The disease and naturally high in acid, meaning less intervention required in result is an easy drinking style of wine that is well matched to a wide the winery. range of foods. If you’ve never tried Tempranillo before you’ll find it has Where to find it? Mistletoe Winery on Hermitage Road started producing a similar taste profile to Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. Fiano in 2014 and it can also be found at Gardens Cellars located at The obvious food pairing with Tempranillo wine is Spanish style dishes. Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village. A lighter bodied Tempranillo would go well with tapas style dishes – VERMENTINO is one of the exciting new aromatic white wine varieties prawns, olives, marinated mushrooms and sliced chorizo. from Southern Italy and is fast making an impression on the wine scene Where to find it? Audrey Wilkinson, Mount Broke Wines, Briar Ridge in Australia, mainly due to its natural texture and versatility. Wines, Hungerford Hill and Pokolbin Estate. Vermentino is actually Spanish in origin but is believed to have travelled first to Corsica and then to Italy, where it is the dominant white wine

11 | JANUARY 2016 thb

FOOD

2016 FOOD TRENDS WHAT TO EXPECT From small plates for sharing and native seaweed to fermented foods, here are the food trends that will define what food lovers can expect in 2016. Let’s face it, food trends are often as short lived as a reality TV contestant’s celebrity status. By the time we have wrapped our lips around our lentil burger, we are hearing about super grains and quinoa and the rise of the 'flexitarian'. Oh come on! Are we going to hear all about kale again this year? I mean it's not the only green vegetable around, and as for those ancient grains! Anyway, here’s a list of what to expect when dining out in 2016.

Barbecuing… It's Heating Up The nation's obsession for barbecuing has moved from the back deck to restaurant kitchens around the country. In Australia, barbecuing is recognised as being part of our national identity no matter where you're from. This national ritual has caused the parilla (Argentinian) and robata (Japanese) methods of cooking to gain in popularity.

Grazing - Now the "IN" Thing More and more restaurants are featuring small dishes on their menus which are designed to be shared by those dining at the table. This trend takes its cue from traditional Spanish tapas where guests can sit leisurely and graze from many different dishes at once. Whether it's called tapas, divvy dishes or meze, just about every culture has their version of these tasty little dishes. Italy has the antipasto platter, Turkey and Cyprus its meze, Mexico its antajitas, Argentina has the picada and Venice the cicchetti, which are typically eaten for lunch or as late-afternoon snacks. The common theme amongst them all is that they are designed to be shared, served at ease and encourage conversation.

Native Seaweed and Foods Asia’s influence has introduced seaweed to our culinary landscape. It’s considered to be high in fibre, a complete source of protein and is very popular in Asian cultures and cuisines - especially Japanese, Chinese and Korean dishes. So expect to see it being used a lot more, particularly Australian seaweed, in contemporary cuisine.

thb 12 | JANUARY 2016

There is a large range of edible seaweeds on the market, with the more common ones being wakame, kombu and they are set to transition from sushi rolls to dinner plates with chefs serving it in salads, seasonings and sauces. High in iodine and purportedly excellent for detoxing and weight loss. Also expect to see more native ingredients including saltbush, warrigal greens, wattleseed, quandongs and quality, ethically harvested kangaroo to feature on menus.

Growing Respect for Vegetables We’ve come a long way from the 'meat and three veg' world, but for a while we forgot about the importance of vegetables as we became more meat-obsessed. The focus is now back on what was long been an after thought. Increased respect for sides and crisp vegetable dishes will be a theme for 2016. Most good restaurants deliver fantastic sides and are putting an increased and real emphasis on vegetables.

Middle Eastern Fascination We have never really lost our fascination with Middle Eastern dishes, but there is so much more to the f ragrant and smoky seduction of the Middle East. Chefs are taking note and starting to use Middle Eastern spices and rices.

Real Food It’s not the end of burgers and fries- instead it’s the dawning of an age of affordable, quick, even healthier foods. The growing move towards healthier eating, which is more a decision made around lifestyle than for diet reasons, has propelled many former fringe foods such as kale, vegetable juice, quinoa and organic produce into the mainstream, with more on the way.

Fermented foods – Going with the Gut While it never went away, fermented foods are back on the menu. Fermented and pickled foods such as kimchi, sauerkraut and miso have been around for ages in Asian grocers and continental delicatessens and are increasingly being used in restaurant kitchens. They are now also making their way onto the shelves of specialty stores. Fermented foods are foods which undergo a process called lacto-fermentation - creating a food which acts as an excellent probiotic and with great health and digestion benefits.

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

RELAX. REBALANCE. REFOCUS

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

Golden Door Spa Elysia in the picturesque Hunter Valley is a haven of relaxation and healing, created for you to take some time to relax, rebalance and refocus. Our extensive Spa Menu includes face and body treatments, massage, hand and foot care, and specialty services. Signature treatments provide an amazing experience with sensational results, whilst the Spa Rituals offer an opportunity to indulge and rejuvenate for that little while longer. To book call 02 4993 8500 or email programcoord@elysia.com.au

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

Hunter Valley

Horse Ridingures & Advent Trail Rides for Beginners and Experienced Riders

Pony Rides • Family Rides • Picnics • BBQ’s • Breakfast Rides Personalised Rides • Hiking & Mountain Bike Trails Sunset Rides • Kangaroos • Spectacular Valley Views Tractor Hay Rides to Feed the Animals! MARK YOUR DIARY Teddy Bears Picnic on Easter Sunday

For Bookings Phone Margaret on 4930 7111 or 0417 233 008 Stay & play at Hilltop, 288 Talga Road, Lovedale So close to all of Wine Countrys attractions, yet you feel a million miles away..

13 | JANUARY 2016 thb

Liquid Gold Health Benefits of Honey Honey has long been a favourite kitchen staple to spread on toast or to sweeten a cup of tea or coffee. However, this sweet golden liquid is loaded with antibacterial and antifungal properties that have been used for their medicinal value since ancient Egyptian times. Here are just a few of the health benefits of honey:

#1 Alleviates Hayfever It is widely believed that honey acts as a natural vaccine for those who suffer from Hayfever. Raw honey contains small amounts of pollen, which, when exposed to the body in small amounts, activates the immune system and over time can build up your natural immunity against it.

#2 Cough Suppressant Honey can be the all-natural cure when it

comes to a persistent cough that won’t go away. The golden liquid’s thick consistency helps coat the throat, while the sweet taste is believed to trigger nerve endings that protect the throat from incessant coughing.

#3 Treats Wounds and Burns Honey has antibacterial, antifungal, and

All things bees and honey!

antioxidant properties that make it ideal for the treatment and disinfection of wounds and burns.

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

Honey was a conventional therapy in fighting infection up until the early 20th century, at which time its use slowly vanished with the advent of penicillin. Now the use of honey in wound care is regaining popularity, due to research into Manuka honey and it's extraordinary antibacterial activity which has proven to effectively eradicate more than 250 clinical strains of bacteria.

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

Cheers Bus

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

book@cheersbus.com • Call John on 0408 987 057

• Hundreds of colourful hand blown &

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

thb 14 | JANUARY 2016

Wine Glass Gallery Because great wine deserves a great wine glass

Over 3,000 colourful eclectic products to choose from... Come and enjoy a friendly Hunter Valley Experience!

Hunter Valley Chocolate Co. Pure Indulgence

Hunter Valley Vineyards Boutique Cheesery

HUNTER VALLEY

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

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

• 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.

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

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

An exciting & unique tasting experience. We invite you to sample our Hunter made speciality Liqueurs (the Chocolate Port is to die for), Extra Virgin Olive Oils, Infused Olive Oils, our famous Caramelised Balsamic Vinegar, and our amazing range of Gourmet Stuffed Olives! Choose a designer bottle to compliment your new favourite liqueur, and let us tailor make your wedding bonbonniere, or corporate gift packages.

ARTISIAN AUSTRALIAN CHEESEMAKERS Located at Mcguigan Wine Complex 447 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998 7744 Now in two great locations: 23 Ogilvie St DENMAN | PH 6547 2840 Shop 6 Hunter Valley Gardens, Broke Rd POKOLBIN | PH 4998 7455

www.huntervalleycheese.com.au

www.huntervalleyliqueurs.com.au 15 | JANUARY 2016 thb

FOOD AND WINE

FOOD 5 WAYS | Scoops of Summer WORDS Di von Essen

Ice cream, or iced cream as it was originally called, was once narrowly If your tastebuds are set to ice cream “connoisseur” status then you defined as a luxury dessert made of cream, sugar, and sometimes fruit will not be disappointed by our 5 Scoops of Summer tour of the congealed over ice. Ice cream's origins are known to reach back as Hunter Valley. Of course, this is the Hunter Valley – so you will need to far as the second century B.C. although no specific date of origin nor be prepared for drinking wine with your ice cream delight! We know inventor has been indisputably credited with its discovery and no one what you’re thinking … “I can't drink wine with ice cream.” Who says culture can completely claim ice cream as its own. Roman emperor – we say! Adaptability is a positive quality, so break some rules and Nero supposedly had his slaves bring snow down from the mountains enjoy the ultimate summer pairing! so that he could have it topped with fruit and honey and the Sabor in the Hunter - Ice Cream Obsession. A scoop each of techniques for making sorbets probably led to experimentation with chocolate obsession, cookies n' cream and caramel pecan ice cream cream and milk in Italy during the Renaissance although no recipes (or with chocolate drizzled over the top and served with a poco-loco. proof of this) survive. + Best Wine Match: Tamburlaine Reserve Framboise ($8.50 by the On the other hand, there is clear literary evidence that this glass) or at Cellar Door (because we know you will want to buy more) experimentation underwent considerable refinement in France during $29/bottle. the seventeenth century, and that it was the French court of Louis XIV Restaurant Eighty Eight - Buttered Popcorn Ice Cream. Served with that first served ice creams at banquets. hot chocolate mousse, popcorn praline and liquorice paint. + Best Wherever it was first created, when it comes to modern ice cream Wine Match: Ivanhoe 2013 Chardonnay $23/bottle at Cellar Door. consumption, Australia’s per-capita consumption is second in the world (topped only by the U.S*) and there is no doubt that ice cream RidgeView Restaurant - Classic Ice Cream Sundae. Ice cream trio, is a treat that can be enjoyed by all ages and especially in the heat of hot chocolate fudge, crushed peanuts, fresh whipped cream and an Australian summer. marshmallows. + Best Wine Match: Ridgeview 2006 Fortified Shiraz at $10/glass or $40/bottle at Cellar Door. Of course if it’s a scoop or cone you’re after, you can’t go past the Hunter Valley Cheese Shop at the Roche Estate complex – which is also home to the Hunter Valley Gelato Company and features traditional Italian Gelato made with imported Italian ingredients and made using a 200 year old recipes. A scoop (or 2) of deliciously decadent flavours can also be found at And the Winner is Oscars in Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village – perfect for cooling down after a day at the Gardens.

The Cellar Restaurant - Mulled Wine Ice Cream. Mulled wine ice cream served with poached pear and Lancashire Parkin (gingerbread cake traditionally made with oatmeal and black treacle, which originated in northern England). + Best Wine Match: 2011 Tyrrell’s ‘Brokenback’ Shiraz $11/glass or $45/bottle. Harrigan’s Irish Pub & Restaurant - Duo of Gelato. With flavours that change daily. A refreshing end to any meal, Gelato has long been known as “Italian ice cream.” Gelato generally contains less fat than ice cream, as gelato uses whole milk while ice cream is made with cream. + Best Wine Match: This will really depend on the flavours offered, however, a good rule of thumb is to match a Riesling with a stone-fruit based gelato and a Moscato if the gelato is citrus-based.

Tips for Matching Wine with Ice Cream Ask most wine professionals, and they'll tell you, ‘Pairing wine with ice cream is one of those 'impossible pairings.' It’s certainly not impossible – but it is a little tricky – so keep these tips in mind. • According to dessert and wine pairing guidelines, the wine should be sweeter than the dessert, or else the wine may come across as flat. • Consider the wines acidity (if you think about it you wouldn't squeeze lemon juice on your ice cream) and choose a wine that has a low acidity. • Think about the level of tannins in the wine - sure, tannic wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Nebbiolo may play well against rich dishes, but once you add a sugary component, the profile changes. All of a sudden, the delicate, sweet notes of your dessert are swept away by bitterness and dryness. *Source: Euromonitor

thb 16 | JANUARY 2016

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

For an altogether sweet experience, a visit to one of Sabor in the Hunter’s Dessert Bars is a MUST!

Both locations closed until January 14th.

Pair something scrumptious with a delicious Hunter Valley wine…. it’s a unique Hunter Valley experience that you can only enjoy at a Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar. The Sabor Dessert Menu features over 50 different desserts, each one created individually. Nothing is served by the slice and this brings a new level of culinary delight to desserts in the Hunter Valley. Indulge in multi-award winning Portuguese Chocolate mousse, decadent cakes, pastries, hand-made chocolates, Portuguese tarts and gourmet ice-cream. There is also a large range of gluten free desserts, barista-made Glinelli coffee and a selection of teas to enjoy amongst the vines or to take away and savour in your home or hotel.

Enjoy a world of desserts at a Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar near you! POKOLBIN At Lambloch Estate, 2342 Broke Rd, Pokolbin • PH 1300 958 939 Thurs 10am-4:30pm, Fri & Sat 10am-9:30pm, Sun & Mon 10am-4:30pm

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

17 | JANUARY 2016 thb

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FOOD

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A cool way to eat this Summer What is typically the domain of the family kitchen table, shared dishes, or divvy dishes, are becoming a popular way of eating at some of the most sophisticated restaurants in Australia and chefs throughout the country are embracing this trend by introducing tapas style menus and offerings. The rise in shared eating experiences in the Australian food sector is an undeniable trend. It is now not uncommon to see large groups of people indulging in a myriad of shared dishes in some of Australia’s most prestigious establishments. "As part of the more casual dining movement in restaurants, the idea of shared plates has been a big and growing trend for a while," says Matt Dillow, owner and head chef of Twine Restaurant, The Verandah Restaurant and The Deck Café Lovedale. "The new breed of diner is adventurous in both their eating choices and the desire for that unique ‘foodie’ experience. Shared dishes accommodate this perfectly by providing them with the opportunity to explore and experiment with new cuisines in small portions and amongst friends in a casual setting" says Matt.

dishes such as grilled octopus, may also be included, along with salads, sliced hard-boiled eggs, garlic-bread, Kalamata olives, fava beans, fried vegetables, fresh Greek sheep, goat or cow cheeses. Other dishes may include fried sausages and meatballs like keftédes. There's plenty to like about Meze dining and RidgeView Restaurant on Sweetwater Road in Pokolbin specialise in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean inspired cuisine. A popular choice at RidgeView is the Cypriot Meze - a four course banquet meal (Meze Feast) made up of many small dishes and designed to be shared. For the not so hungry, RidgeView have now expanded their menu to include a selection of Mezedhes - small tasty dishes similar to the dishes that make up the Meze Feast.

Dining Tapas Style The word "tapas" is derived from the Spanish verb ''tapar'' - meaning "to cover." Tapas are not a particular type of food but instead they are small portions of appetisers or appetite teasers designed to accompany one's sherry or other aperitif and are intended to be served and consumed quickly. They may be served cold (such as mixed olives, cured ham or cheese) or warm such as Solomillo a la Castellana which is fried pork scallops, served with an onion. In some bars in Spain, tapas have evolved into an entire, and often sophisticated, cuisine. Types of tapas vary widely from simple yet delicious fare such as meatballs with sauce (or Albóndigas), cured Serrano ham to more complex dishes like ''Bacalao'' which is salted cod loin sliced very thinly and usually served with bread and tomatoes, sautéed garlic prawns in peppercorn sauce (called Gambas), Chorizo al vino which is chorizo sausage slowly cooked in wine, or Mejillones rellenos - stuffed mussels. For a great tapas style dining experience, The Verandah Restaurant at Calais Estate in Pokolbin specialise in modern Tapas style dining. Tapas offer the perfect combination of all things that Spaniards hold dearest to them, which is food, drink and great conversation. When you bite into tapas you are sampling not only the foods of Spain, but taking a journey through over 700 years of Spanish culinary history. BELOW: Tapa Towers available at The Verandah Restaurant (lunch only).

ABOVE: A RidgeView Restaurant Meze Feast.

Dining the Meze Way A meze is a big part of the dining experience in Eastern Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and Arab countries and is very similar to the tapas of Spain, but with different ingredients. The word "meze" has its roots steeped in antiquity and means "taste" or "snack." The words and its usage came to Greece from Turkey and is a dish - hot or cold, spicy or savoury, often salty - that is served, alone or with other mezedhes, as a separate eating experience. Convenient, easy to eat and quick to serve, meze (or mezedhes) have made their way from the bars and restaurants of Greece, Cyprus and the Balkans to gradually capture the attention and appetites of diners all over the world and are a joy to share with family and friends. Popular meze dishes include Babaghanoush, which is eggplant (aubergine) mashed and mixed with seasonings, Halloumi cheese which is usually sliced and grilled or fried, Afelia - diced pork marinated in wine with coriander seed, then stewed, Souvlaki or bite sized meat cubes (lamb is very common), grilled on a skewer over charcoal. Seafood

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

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

CellAR dOOR ResTAURAnT lUXURiOUs COTTAges VineYARd OliVe gROVe eVenTs

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

21 | JANUARY 2016 thb

It’s Wine & Dine Time!

The 2016 Summer/Autumn issue of Wine & Dine Hunter Valley is out now! Wine & Dine Hunter Valley celebrates food and wine as well as the people who produce it, from our favourite restaurants and chefs to our distinguished wineries and winemakers.

Enjoy a relaxing meal with your family and friends at Harrigan’s and enjoy our live entertainment every weekend. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, vineyards and mountains, Harrigan’s is located right in the heart of the Hunter Valley. Open 7 days. Contact us and book your table today! BISTRO • LIVE ENTERTAINMENT • SPORTS BAR Ph: 02 4998 4300 - www.harrigans.com.au Broke Road Pokolbin

There are so many great places to eat in the Hunter Valley, so why not let Wine & Dine Hunter Valley help you with your decision - with over 35 comprehensive restaurant listings plus dining reviews for Restaurant Cuvee at Peterson House, Il Cacciatore at Hermitage Lodge and Harvest Restaurant at Hope Estate, informed decisions are at your fingertips! Similarly, if you are looking for a wine tasting experience, a specific wine to buy or winery to visit, then Wine & Dine Hunter Valley has a comprehensive list of wineries, wine varieties, tasting notes and wine and food trail maps for each wine producing area in the Hunter Valley. It has never been easier to enjoy all that the Hunter Valley has to offer than with Wine & Dine Hunter Valley. Pick your FREE copy today at the Visitor Information Centre, accommodation providers, hotels and resorts, major attractions, wineries, restaurants, cafes, retailers and many other pick up points throughout wine country. Wine & Dine Hunter Valley can also be read online at www.huntervalleyonline.com.au

It’s never been easier.

The most popular guide to Hunter Valley cellar doors, restaurants and gourmet foods and the only publication with a specific focus on wine and food. Includes handy Wine & Food Trail Maps for each wine producing area as well as dining reviews and wine tasting notes. Look for the gold sticker at featured restaurants and wineries.

NEW ISSUE OUT IN JANUARY! thb 22 | JANUARY 2016

AS SEEN IN

HUNTER VALLE

G AZ I NE

AWARD WINNING VENUE

LIVE MUSIC AND GREAT FOOD AT POTTERS HOTEL BREWERY RESORT

HOME OF

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

RELAX BEER

BREWERY

WINE COUNTRY’S FIRST MICRO-BREWERY

BRASSERIE

FOOD TOURS

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

PK's on Pokolbin

is a locally owned, recently refurbished café with a casual and relaxed atmosphere. Our outdoor area is perfect for a quick catch up or a long lunch with friends and family, serving barista coffees and an all day breakfast from 8am. Create your own tasty gourmet toasted Turkish, sandwich or wrap or choose something sweet from our delicious patisserie range. We can also prepare platters of all sizes to take with you on your wine tasting adventure. PK's on Pokolbin is conveniently located right next door to the Hunter Valley Visitor Centre, making it the first place you should stop when visiting Wine Country.

PH (02) 4990 4002

455 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin NSW 2320

harkhamwineS harkhamwineS

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It's that time of year...

WHAT'S HAPPENING IN THE VINEYARDS? The Vineyards are at their best at this time of the year bursting with life and lush green foliage. Fruit Ripening Summer initiates the start of the ripening process or "véraison”. This is probably the most critical stage in the grape growing cycle as the berries start to change in colour (from hard green to a softer green-gold or pink-purple), the skin begins to soften and the actual structure of the juice starts to change with sugar accumulation, the levels of acidity lowering and flavour and tannin development starting within the berries. Generally, véraison takes place 4 to 6 weeks before harvest depending on the weather, location, variety and degree of ripeness required. Canopy management in summer is particularly important to ensure there is sufficient shade protection and exposure to air for the fruit. Berry size (and bunch weight) increases dramatically over this period and berry growth is closely monitored to prepare for vintage. As the vines continue to ripen netting is often required to protect the ripening fruit from birds and other pests.

When the grapes reach a suitable composition of sugar, acid and flavour levels, the winemaker makes the decision when to pick. Harvesting is then done by hand or machine depending on site requirements and generally takes place in the cool of the morning or night to ensure optimum preservation of fruit. As well as being one of the earliest on record for most grape growers in the Hunter, the 2014 Hunter Valley vintage was considered one of the best ever with many winemakers comparing it to the great vintages of 1937, 1954 and 1965. Little rain throughout January and February allowed winemakers to harvest the fruits at optimum ripeness. In comparison, the 2015 Vintage started off very well with the majority of white wine grapes being picked before the rain threatened the harvest. Winemakers were generally very pleased with the whites – especially with the Semillons picked in 2015. Unfortunately for many, the late January rains posed a serious threat to the red harvest. For some it was disaster, for others it had let up enough for winemakers to produce some sound, medium-bodied Hunter Valley reds. Owner and Winemaker at RidgeView Wines, Darren Scott, believes we are on track for a fairly good 2016 vintage. "As long as the rains are fairly spaced and the humidity holds off - we will be in a good position for Vintage this year," said Darren. This is a view shared by Ken Sloan of Mistletoe Wines who believes Vintage will be pretty much as expected this time around.

"We have had a pretty normal Spring with some early rains and cooler weather leading up to Vintage this year so I think we can expect to be taking the Semillon off by Australia Day and perhaps the Chardonnay a Harvest few days earlier than that. That is unless we get some seriously hot days Vintage (harvesting) in the Hunter Valley normally takes place toward between now and then which would bring harvest in even earlier,” said the end of January and February continuing to the end of March. As the Ken. Hunter (Lower) has an average annual rainfall of 700mm per year, with Here’s hoping for a trouble free and excellent 2016 vintage! the wettest months being January and February, it often makes vintage especially challenging for winemakers.

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

5 Star Cellar Door – James Halliday

2015

CERTIFICATE of EXCELLENCE

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RESTAURANT

A two course, deliciously priced and presented dinner, including a glass of our house wine per person, is available until the 31st of January 2016 for just $55 per person (food only). Eighty Eight is a restaurant for lovers. Those passionate about sustainability and fresh food will be enraptured with this experience of simple flavours and delicate plating. Nestled within the grounds of Peppers Convent, and offering superb service and comfort, make sure to add 88 to your next foodie trail through the Hunter Valley. Farm to fork dining at its best! Breakfast All days 8am – 10am Lunch Thurs – Sun 12 – 3pm Dinner Thurs – Sun 6:30pm – Late Bookings essential: Ph 02 4998 4999 | convent@peppers.com.au 88 Halls Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 | www.theconventhuntervalley.com

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WINE VARIETY

VIOGNIER

A Wine Like no Other Aromatic and fragrant, Viognier has become a popular drop nationwide thanks to the typical taste – a rich, ripe, full palate that is also low in acidity. Viognier is a wine like no other and has, in a relatively short period of time, become the choice of drinkers and growers alike. The last decade has seen a massive increase in Viognier production throughout the world and is currently considered a real challenger to Chardonnay. Viognier is seductive, luscious and unctuous. It offers a wonderful sensory experience full of vast nuances of flavour - a veritable flavour bomb of exotic musk, rose petal, apricot, white peach, ginger, citrus blossoms, with a rich and silky texture. Viognier wine is destined to become a more mainstream varietal, perhaps not in quantity but in public recognition. The distinctive Viognier taste, with layers of strong stone-fruit flavours, has already attracted a cult following that is steadily growing in restaurants and homes. The origin of the Viognier grape is unknown, however it is presumed to be an ancient grape, possibly originating in Dalmatia (present day Croatia) before being transported to Rhône by the Romans in 281 AD. Considering its 2000 year history, it is interesting that this variety was only recently rescued from almost certain extinction - when in 1965, the grape was limited to less than 10 acres in Northern Rhône and producing less than 2,000 litres of wine. But the word about this almost forgotten variety soon spread. Thanks to modern viticultural practices Viognier is now widely planted in other wine regions in France and has found its way to many other wine producing countries around the world including the United States, Canada, Italy, Chile, Argentina, Brazil, New Zealand, Greece, South Africa and Australia where it is now one of the most popular grape varietals going around.

Most wines produced are very fruity and richly flavoured however the variety also has the capacity to be made into extremely complex and well-structured wines and is also blended with juice from Marsanne and Roussanne grapes to produce a Rhône-style white wine and also with Shiraz to make a red wine - Shiraz Viognier. The most distinctive attribute of Viognier is its stone fruit character, most notably that of apricot or peach and its generous alcohol content (often over the 13% mark) and low acidity. There are other powerful flower, fruit and spice aromas evident in these wines - which are dependent on where the grapes are grown, the weather conditions and age of the vines. Most of these wines are intended to be consumed young, although some - especially those from old vines and the late-harvest wines, are suitable for aging. When it comes to food and wine, Viognier wine is an all-rounder. Its fragrant flavours make it the ideal companion to a wide range of foods. The lighter more refined styles suit seafood, particularly prawns, lobster and mussels. Richer wines are well matched to spicy Thai cuisine, Indian dishes, also hearty Moroccan and African fare, freshly grilled seafood or tasty barbecued poultry. If red meat is on the menu and you're looking for an alternative to red wine, the full-bodied Viognier taste will stand up surprisingly well. Some botrytis styles of Viognier wine even make beautiful dessert accompaniments.

In Australia, the first commercial planting was made by Yalumba Wines of the Barossa Valley in South Australia in 1980.

JA N

UA R

TOOPP S DR

2009 RidgeView Wines Viognier Elegant palate of citrus, apricot and white stone fruits beautifully balanced with elegant French oak nuances. Perfect accompaniment to seafood, white meats or a cheese platter. CELLARING Has potential for another 3-5 years.

2009 Pokolbin Estate Shiraz Viognier Containing only 4% percent Viognier, this wine is drinking superbly. Deep in colour and highly aromatic, it has smooth and supple plum and black fruit flavour with spicy oak highlights. The flavour is well integrated with gentle oak and finely balanced tannins. This wine delivers rich berry fruit flavours, has a lush velvety texture and an elegant, long aftertaste. CELLARING Drinking beautifully now, until 2020.

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Your always welcome at...

Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant

There is nothing quite like a festive sushi platter to impress your guests. It tastes healthy, light and delicious. A favourite dining experience for locals and visitors alike. Always fresh... Always vibrant Open 7 days for lunch and dinner. Takeaway available every day. Tempus Two Complex, 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

a must visit! Epicure Café is an exciting new Café that has opened in the heart of wine country, situated next to renowned Cellar door – The Small Winemakers Centre on McDonald’s Road. The café has a covered terrace overlooking a picturesque setting and the atmosphere is perfect for those looking for a place to eat breakfast or lunch – and anything in between. Open daily, they have a great menu showcasing local produce and an extensive Hunter wine list, beers on tap and craft beers by the bottle. If you’re looking for somewhere with a great atmosphere, a cleverly executed menu and wonderful service – this café is one to visit and one to watch! For bookings PH (02) 4998 6665 E eat@epicurecafe.com.au

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

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IN THE VINEYARD

IS SMALLER

BETTER?

For many, coming to the Hunter Valley is like taking a step into another world. Forgotten is that pile of paperwork on your desk at work, that meeting you need to prepare for and the load of washing waiting for you at home. It’s home to some of Australia’s top wines and it’s no secret that the Hunter Valley produces some of the best Semillon in the world. So strong is Semillon’s connection with the terroir of the Hunter Valley that the style has not been replicated anywhere else in the world. Deliciously crisp with abundant citrus aromas when young and with age develops unique complex toast, vanilla and honey flavours, giving it a superb depth and richness. But the attraction and uniqueness of the Hunter Valley is the range of wines sold exclusively from the supplier itself. Of the 140 plus wineries making up the Hunter Valley, the majority are considered to be boutique by nature – crushing and bottling 350 tonnes or less under their own label.

A great example is McLeish Estate in Pokolbin. Surrounded by just 11 Hectares of vineyard this small family-owned and operated winery is responsible for producing many Gold and Trophy Award winning wines, including Trophy for World’s Best Semillon at the London International Wine Challenge – making it Australia’s most awarded boutique winery. Leogate Estate is another local winery that made the world stop and take another serious look at the Hunter Valley as a major wine producing region. They were awarded the James Rodgers Trophy for Best Wine in its First Year of Production for their 2011 "The Basin" Reserve Shiraz at the 2014 International Wine Challenge in London. Of course there are others such as RidgeView Estate, Gartelmann Wines, First Creek, Cockfighters Ghost, Silkman Wines, Constable Estate, Audrey Wilkinson, Mistletoe Winery, Briar Ridge, Lambloch Estate, Pokolbin Estate, Adina Vineyard, Petersons, Wynwood Estate, Capercaillie and many others who consistently turn out excellent award winning wines. Wineries such as these no longer constitute a sideline to the Australian wine industry. Their numbers (and local influence) have grown to such an extent that they now are the Australian wine industry. These small, local wineries are slowly but certainly reshaping what Australian wine lovers expect from their wine experience. For example, Australian wine drinkers increasingly expect to see locally produced wines on their local restaurant wine lists. Not least, they expect to experience something different. Some of the smaller producers are also the ones paving the way to greater social awareness in wine production. Tamburlaine Wines, Macquariedale, Ascella Pure Wines and Krinklewood Vineyard have all embraced organics and biodynamics due to their conviction that it would help take their wines' quality to the next level. By following biodynamic and organic principles, they can truly express the vineyards terroir, or character and individuality, in their wines. For them it's not just about being green, it’s also about taste and quality. It's about the future. Size does matter and it's the small producers who show us not only what can be done, but what might be done - and done better.

Introducing the Hunter Valley's

PO K O LBIN E STAT E V INEYARD

Tempranillo | Nebbiolo | Sangiovese Get your taste for adventure today at ...Pokolbin Estate. POKOLBIN ESTATE VINEYARD 298 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin | Open 7 Days 9am -5pm PH 4998 7524 | www.pokolbinestate.com.au

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from Adina Vineyard Whether it’s a cool Pinot Gris, a luscious chilled Verdelho, or a brilliant sparkling Chardonnay/Pinot Noir that takes your fancy, you will find the line-up of Adina’s white wines just perfect for summer enjoyment. Taste and buy at our cellar door – we are open 7 days from 10am to 5pm. Enjoy! You can also buy online for delivery to your home or office.

‘5 Red Stars For Excellence’

James Halliday’s Wine Companion

VINEYARD

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

358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin tamburlaine.com.au

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MISTLETOE WINERY

A Journey to the Hunter Valley Ken and Gwen Sloan – owners of Mistletoe Winery are living the dream and creating some of the region’s most awarded and talked about wines from their 5.5 hectare vineyard on Hermitage Road in Pokolbin. This James Halliday 5 star rated winery is a true small family owned winery with 3 generations of the Sloan family involved in the business, which now includes their son Rob and daughter Cassandra and also granddaughters Natane and Jessica, who has an interest in studying winemaking. One of the Hunter Valley’s true gentlemen, Ken is an intriguing character with a seemingly endless knowledge of wine, local history and a great believer in "quality without compromise" in just about everything he does – and especially when it comes to making wine. When asked, Ken can trace his interest in wine back to his years growing up in Wentworthville, which in the 1950’s was experiencing the first waves of post-WWII migration from primarily Mediterranean countries.

wine in their "winery" which in reality was nothing more than an annex to Michael’s egg production farm at the rear of his home. Not lacking in confidence, they also entered their wines in local wine shows and not without some success - winning 3 bronze medals at the 1978 Mudgee Wine Show for their Shiraz, Cabernet and Cabernet Shiraz blend. By 1987, Ken and Gwen found themselves in the Hunter Valley on a regular basis and eventually bought the Hermitage Road property in 1989. What was supposed to be part of a retirement plan, now became a welcome distraction for Ken and Gwen, who used every opportunity to "escape" to the Hunter Valley property to work and clear the land. Two years after purchasing the property, the Sloan’s came to realise just how good the soil was for vines and so decided to plant a vineyard. The next seven years were spent building the house and cellar door and also digging the dams for irrigation. They eventually moved to the Hunter Valley in 1997 and it has been home ever since. At first, the wines were contract made in the Upper Hunter by the Reynolds Wine Company, but in 2003, they decided to build a winery on the property now named Mistletoe Winery because of the vast amount of mistletoe growing on the ironbark tree, which had once covered the property. With great winemakers that included Nick Paterson and now Scott Stephens, Mistletoe’s Winery has in a relatively few years become one of the most respected and awarded boutique wineries in Australia.

"With many of my friends being of Maltese and Italian origin, I was often invited to their homes where I was confronted with food the likes of No stranger to winning awards for his wines, Ken does not hesitate to which I had never seen before – salamis, loaves of bread, platters of name the award which for him represents the most memorable and spaghetti served with a variety of sauces, olives preserved fish and, of significant recognition for his wine. course, wine. Not just any wine, but wine and Grappa – and often home"It has to be the 2011 NSW Wine of the Year Award for our 2009 Reserve made," says Ken. Chardonnay which went on to become Winestate Champion Chardonnay The conviviality of these families and their obvious enjoyment of food for Australia and New Zealand," says Ken. "This wine went on to win 7 and wine was very different to what Ken was used to and it wasn't until Gold Medals and was runner-up to the Penfolds Yattarna Chardonnay at his teens that he came to realise the lasting effect these early encounters the 2011 International Chardonnay Challenge in New Zealand – which in were to have on him. By the time all his friends were drinking beer, Ken itself was a fantastic result." had become intrigued by wine and started to drink, appreciate and even Not surprisingly, Ken and Gwen have no intention of retiring any time collect it. soon. Instead, they intend to keep doing what they are doing and doing After he left school, Ken ran a number of successful businesses in it better than before. Sydney and Gosford. Throughout the years, Ken’s interest and love of wine continued to grow and was further encouraged by the writings of the late Len Evans and Max Lake as well as the prominent Sydney wine merchant and restaurateur J.K. "Johnnie" Walker. Through Johnnie Walker, Ken started to bring wine in bulk from Kay Bros. in McLaren Vale and held numerous bottling parties throughout the sixties and seventies. In the mid-seventies, together with close friend Michael Watt, they started to buy grapes from the Hunter Valley to make

LEFT TO RIGHT: Gwen, Natane, Ken, Jessica and Cassandra.

thb 30 | JANUARY 2016

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

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

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

Explore the Hunter

Much more than a Vineyard.

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

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

(Wine Country Drive) or call 4990 8206.

6 FREE

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

Massive Wine Sale at The Garden Cellars Come in and Pick & Mix 12 wines from $85. Huge selection of wine to choose from.

THE GARDEN

CELLARS

Hunt er Valley RELEASES

“Largest beer range in the valley!”

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

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

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SPARKLING CHAMPAGNE There is something exciting about the "pop" you hear when a bottle of sparkling wine is opened. However, while we may enjoy drinking a glass of bubbly, do you know the difference between Sparkling Wine and Champagne? The short answer is that the sparkling wine that comes from the Champagne region of France is technically the only sparkling wine that may be referred to as "Champagne." Bubbly from all other regions in the world are simply referred to as "sparkling wine," although regional specialties abound. Sparkling wines from Italy - or more specifically the Veneto region of Italy, are called Prosecco and have larger bubbles and more focus on the fruit. Spain's sparkler is called Cava and those French sparkling wines from everywhere outside of Champagne are referred to as Cremant. In other words, all Champagne is sparkling wine, but not all sparkling wine is Champagne. Sparkling wines and Champagnes are categorized as Extra Brut (extra dry), Brut (dry), Extra dry (middle of the road dry), Sec (sweet) and Demi-sec (semi-sweet) depending on their sugar levels. Brut Champagne and sparkling wine are the most common style of bubbly offering a typically crisp, dry palate appeal.

2011 Adina Vineyard Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir The 2011 Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir was made from selected grapes from the Lovedale estate. Secondary fermentation occurred in the bottle, following the traditional method. The wine disgorged after 3 years on lees. Tasting Made from the classical sparkling varieties, this wine features a wet straw/ gold colour with a developed bouquet nose. Strawberry and apple flavours are elegantly balanced with toasty notes. Good length with a rich creamy feel on the mouth. Beautiful flavour and finesse – an outstanding example of the winemaker’s art. Food Match Great anytime - perfect as an aperitif, with hors d’oeuvres, desserts or… anything! Cellaring Drink now to 7 years.

R EC REATI NG H I S T O RY Bringing the old vines back to their former glory... 310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin 2320 PH (02) 4998 7885 E cellar@wynwoodestate.com.au W www.wynwoodestate.com.au thb 32 | JANUARY 2016

Organic Wine

Great Tasting • Award Winning • Certified Organic The Hunter Valley is Australia's "Must Visit" Wine Region! With over 150 Cellar Doors, almost 70 restaurants and a plethora of events happening throughout the year, it's easy to see how it's earned the "Must Visit" tag. Planning a trip to the Hunter Valley? Don't leave home before visiting Hunter Valley Online! You’ll find all the latest news, restaurant reviews, wine tasting notes and suggestions, interactive magazines, guides, brochures, newsletters, maps, books and tools to make the most of your time in Australia's Must Visit Wine Region!

PASSION

TASTE

ASCELLA is the largest family owned certified organic vineyard in the Hunter Valley. Located in the pristine Broke Fordwich region, Geoff and Barb welcome you to their picturesque Country Cellar Door. We are committed to maintaining a balanced, chemical free and sustainable environment. Become a Friend of Ascella or an Organic Partner and have access to great prices for highly awarded wines, and fantastic rewards. Join us for Jack’s Barbeque in the Orchard weekends and holidays, a unique kick back and relax experience.

OPEN 7 days a week

Please text or call 02 6574 5275 or 0431 357 105 www.ascellawine.com | sales@ascellawine.com

Photo courtesy of Mount View Tourism.

Arak Gin Vodkas Premium Apple Lemon Myrtle Vanilla Chilli Coffee Chocolate Caramel Honey Liqueurs Strawberry Ginger Mango Mint Leaf Coconut Rum Choc Mint Turkish Delight Coffee Cherry Schnapps Blackberry Butterscotch

Hunter Distillery is the only locally owned and operated certified organic distillery in the Hunter Valley wine region of New South Wales. We use premium quality organic raw ingredients to produce an exceptional range of top shelf spirits. Our multi award winning spirits include Gin, Vodka, Liqueurs and Schnapps.

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

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COMING UP

February

26-28

A DAY ON THE GREEN WITH DIANA KRALL at Bimbadgen

JOHN MELLENCAMP SUPPORTED BY JEWEL at Roche Estate

WOLLOMBI CLASSIC FILM FESTIVAL at Grays Inn and St Michaels Church

ROB THOMAS SUPPORTED BY PETE MURRAY at Hope Estate

The last weekend of summer will see the launch of an exciting new event in the heart of the historic village of Wollombi – The Wollombi Classic Film Festival.

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

Five-time Grammy Award winning jazz pianist and world-renowned singer, Diana Krall is returning to the Hunter Valley this summer in support of her latest album, Wallflower.

The Hunter Valley is in for a treat when the legendary John Mellencamp performs at Roche Estate, supported by singer/ songwriter Jewel and country artist Carlene Carter.

Special guest will be the exquisite Katie Noonan, whose technical mastery and pure voice has made her one of Australia’s most versatile and beloved vocalists. This 4 x ARIA Award winning and 7 x platinum selling songstress first received widespread praise as the angel-voiced songstress of indie-pop band George and has since taken audiences on sublime excursions through Jazz, Pop and Classical music.

Mellencamp is well known to Aussie audiences for songs such as Jack & Diane, Cherry Bomb and R.O.C.K in the USA. Mellencamp will be supported by Alaskan singer-songwriter Jewel, who since her debut Pieces of You in 1995, has established herself as one of the most successful musicians of her generation. For more information or tickets go to www.rocheestate.com.au

For more information visit www.adayonthegreen.com.au

07+28 BROKE VILLAGE MARKET McNamara Park, Broke

21 SACRED TREE MARKETS Old St Brigids School Grounds, Branxton

The festival program is diverse, spanning 40+ years of classic cinema and includes Australian classics Strictly Ballroom and Picnic at Hanging Rock, plus 4 other cinematic gems comprising of A Place in the Sun, Rebel Without a Cause, The Spy Who Came in from the Cold and Chinatown.

The romance is set to continue as Thomas makes a very welcome return down-under for a national headline tour. Thomas is touring in support of his first solo album in more than six years, the longawaited The Great Unknown. "I’ll be playing some of the new stuff, some of the old stuff, a little bit of everything, it’s pretty exciting," Rob has said. Joining Rob Thomas will be special guest Pete Murray, who remains one of Australia's most in demand touring properties, repeatedly selling out tours in Australia and abroad.

The festival opens with a garden cocktail party from 6.30pm Friday featuring live music, canapes and complimentary Noyce Brothers Darren Middleton, best known Wine till 8pm, and then Strictly as lead guitarist and songwriter Ballroom to end the night in a blaze in well-known band Powderfinger, of colour. There will be a licensed will also make a guest appearance bar on site selling local wine - playing iconic Powderfinger hits and craft beer and as always in along with his own solo material. Wollombi, country hospitality will For more information visit very much be the order of the day. www.hopeestate.com.au For more information visit www.wollombiclassicfilmfestival.com.au

EVERY SATURDAY + SUN 28TH

HANDMADE HUNTER MARKETS Kevin Sobels Wines

A DAY ON THE GREEN WITH SIMPLY RED at Bimbadgen

thb 34 | JANUARY 2016

Film buffs, or those just looking for a reason for a weekend away, will be treated to 6 classic films at 2 stunning venues - the Grays Inn garden and the 1845 built St Michaels Church.

Thirty years after introducing a generation to the joys of soul music through their rendition of the Valentine Brothers’ classic Money’s Too Tight (To Mention), Simply Red are back in February with a world tour and a brand new album, ‘Big Love’.

Also performing, and making her a day on the green debut, will be Natalie Imbruglia, whose debut album, 1997’s ‘Left of the Middle’, sold seven million copies worldwide and featured the single Torn, which hit No. 1 on multiple charts around the world.

The Big Love Tour lands in Australia supported by one of Australia’s most-loved performers, the fabulous Tina Arena, returning to the winery stages for the first time since 2010.

Simply Red, Tina Arena and Natalie Imbruglia – don’t miss this all-star line-up! For more information visit www.adayonthegreen.com.au

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HunterValleyShopping.com.au

Shopping Village Shop AUSTRALIAN ALPACA BARN specialises in quality Australian Alpaca fashion, homewares and accessories. Alpaca coats, sweaters, shawls, scarves, gloves, socks, beanies, throw rugs, bedding, yarn and alpaca toys. PEPPERS CREEK ANTIQUES An exquisite array of spectacular jewellery, stylish watches, amazing giftware and homewares. Gifts for all ages and occasions collected from all corners of the world. CANDELABRA One of Australia's most famous boutique candle stores - the stunning fragrances, colour and endless variety of product is truly amazing. HUNTER VALLEY CHRISTMAS SHOP Nestled in the heart of the Hunter Valley, is a magic land where it is Christmas every day of the year! PULP ADDICTION Satisfy your paper cravings with our delightful range of designer stationery which is guaranteed to intrigue and delight. THE TWIG A gorgeous selection of home furnishings and personal giftware unlike anything else on offer in the valley. THE WAITERS FRIEND A great selection of quality kitchenware and barware and some of the best prices anywhere in Australia. VILLAGE BOOKS A fantastic range of fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books and a unique collection of quality toys, games, souvenirs and gifts. WILSON & HUNTER All the latest fashion from Camilla, Mela Purdie, Verge, Katherine, Samantha Wills, Metalicus, Bleu Blanc Rouge,Tilly Rose,Tolani and more… WINE GLASS GALLERY An extraordinary gift gallery… colourful, handmade and crystal wine glasses, original artworks, homewares, new season scarves & handbags, jewellery, shot glasses, magnets, souvenirs & much more.

Dine AND THE WINNER IS OSCARS We are a family friendly café serving honest wholesome food and great coffee, in a casual relaxed environment. We are opened for breakfast, lunch and everything in between. Our menu is available dine in or take away and is sure to impress. Phone 4998 7355 HUNTER VALLEY CUPCAKES & CAFÉ Relax & enjoy a light breakfast, a tasty lunch or just indulge with the delicious gourmet cakes & speciality cupcakes plus a great coffee or tea! TASTE OF THE COUNTRY Experience a Taste of the Country in this award winning café and retail outlet. This popular café is like walking into an old fashioned, country kitchen. Phone 4998 6605. THE CELLAR RESTAURANT Rustic Mediterranean cuisine in a relaxed, friendly environment. Open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday. Bookings recommended. Phone 4998 7584.

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

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

Savour HUNTER VALLEY CHOCOLATE COMPANY Established more than ten years ago the ORIGINAL Hunter Valley Chocolate Company & Fudge Factory is one of the premier attractions in the area. HUNTER VALLEY COOKIES Hand-made premium cookies in designer gourmet flavours. Cookie tastings daily, delicious coffee and gluten free cookies. HUNTER VALLEY LIQUEURS & BAERAMI OLIVES Extra virgin olive oils, infused olive oils, vinegars and a large range of specialty liqueurs and an impressive array of bottles to customize your selection. THE BRITISH LOLLY SHOP The largest range of imported English Confectionary. All your old favourites, humbugs, sherbet lemon, come in and sample our hospitality. THE GARDEN CELLARS Mount Eyre/ Three Ponds Cellar Door. See the Tunnel Of Beer or taste 17 flavoured organic vodkas. NEW! HUNTER HONEY HIVE Everything Honey and Bee related! Free tastings daily.

Essentials YE OLDE GENERAL STORE A modern convenience store with a twist of yesteryear. Full of groceries and curiosity. POKOLBIN VILLAGE PHARMACY Offering you friendly, professional service as well as a wide range of products: full PBS prescription service, medicines, vitamins, skin care, cosmetics, hair care, fragrances, sunglasses and much more. Phone 4998 6677.

Shopping Village BROKE ROAD, POKOLBIN • OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 10AM