The Hunter Blackboard | July 2016

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

J U LY 2 0 1 6 | I S S U E # 1 1 3

BLACKBOARD

Gardens

It’s Snowing!

At Hunter Valley Gardens EVERYTHING Is Coming up Roses SECRET SHOPPING SPOTS REVEALED!

THE HUNTER BLACKBOARD IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH...

FOR YOUR DIARY

July

1ST TO 17TH JULY |SNOWTIME IN THE GARDENS | Hunter Valley Gardens | Snow Time in the Gardens is a great opportunity for families and

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

SATURDAY 2ND JULY | PIGSTY IN JULY | Dashville, Lower Belford |

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 July 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 July 2016 until the 31st July 2016 inclusive or while stocks last.

Pigsty in July, the wild little sister of The Gum Ball and Dashville Skyline, is back for 2016, this year headlined by Kiwi rock juggernaut Shihad. The over-18, one-day event has a “second-hand formal” dress code, and a decadent feast of quality boutique beers, fine wines, naughty cocktails and mouth-watering food in a stunning secluded venue, Dashville. Other artists on the lineup include King Tide, Masco Sound System, Justin Ngariki and the Darstardly Bastards and Claire Anne Taylor. This wild event has sold out the past two years, don't miss out in 2016! www.dashville.com.au

9TH, 16TH AND 23RD JULY | CHRISTMAS IN JULY | at Twine and RidgeView | Ever wondered why Australians celebrate Christmas in July?

Australia has British and European heritage, hence there is an attachment to the tradition of celebrating Christmas in cold weather - July generally being the coldest month here. It wouldn't be Christmas in July (also known as Yulefest or Yuletide) without some hearty dinners to celebrate! Two of our favourite Hunter Restaurants Twine and RidgeView are in celebration mode, with Twine hosting dinners on the 9th, 16th and 23rd, and RidgeView on the 23rd.

Book quickly, as seats will fill up. For menu information visit their websites www.ridgeview.com.au and www.twinerestaurant.com.au

18TH TO 31ST JULY | WINTER ROSE PRUNING | Hunter Valley Gardens | Ever wonder how it’s done? Hunter Valley Gardens

have thousands of roses to prune, so let them show you how! With demonstrations and talks throughout the day, you can be sure you are caring for your roses correctly. Don’t forget to pick up your complimentary rose cutting on departure. Winter Rose Pruning is open to the public from 9am to 5pm everyday. Adult entry is $28, children $17 and a family pass is $80 (2 adults, 2 children). You can purchase tickets online at www.hvg.com.au

SATURDAY 23RD JULY | WINERY LONG LUNCH | Calais Estate, Pokolbin | More than just a wine tour, Calais Estate and Verandah

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!

thb 2 | JULY 2016

Restaurant have created the experience all wine lovers are after! Begin with a glass of sparkling wine and canapés, then embark on a tour of the inner workings of a boutique winery. Learn how wine is made and get hands-on designing some of your own sparkling! A 5-course degustation by Verandah Restaurant follows, giving diners the opportunity to sample the Estate’s extensive boutique wine list! To book visit www.calaiswine.com.au

SUNDAY 24TH JULY | WINERY RUNNING FESTIVAL | Hunter Valley Gardens | Run, coffee, cake, lunch... wine? Just have a go! The 10th annual

Winery Running Festival will be staged at Hunter Valley Gardens and include the Ultra Marathon, Winery Marathon, Half Marathon, 10.3km Vineyard Run, 5.2km Winery Wander and 2km Kids Marathon. Competitors can run or walk any event, start and finish in the same area, as well as enjoy the sport and local produce expo and family entertainment on offer. Enjoy running (or walking) past world renown vineyards and resorts in one of Australia's top wine regions! For more information or to enter visit www.wineryrun.com WANT MORE? Keep up to date with events in the Hunter by visiting www.huntervalleyonline.com.au

FROM THE EDITORS As we go to print winter has well and truly arrived in the Hunter Valley and we can finally stoke the open fires and bunker in with our favourite reds—or possibly a sweet dessert treat (not that we needed an excuse really but it’s always nice to have one!) For a real winter warmer you should check out our recipe for Glühwein – guaranteed to put a tingle in your toes!

July is also the month for that unique Australian tradition— Christmas in July.

Some our favourite restaurants will be hosting this traditional feast – with all the yuletide treats and traditions.

You’ll need to book ahead at Twine, Ridgeview Restaurant, Esca Bimbadgen or Harvest as these yummy events generally sell out fast.

Speaking of delicious dinners, is there a better time of the year to top off a meal with a dessert tipple? From Muscat to Botrytis Semillon and everything in between, we look at our top picks for a cold winter night. We also look in depth at the Muscat variety and learn that it is one of the oldest varieties (dating back to the ancient Egyptians) still around today.

Hunter Valley Gardens is fully into the winter spirit with “Snow Time in the Garden” - the second largest feature event for the Gardens (second only to the Christmas Lights Spectacular). Who needs to head south to enjoy a spot of tobogganing or outdoor ice-skating when you can enjoy it all right here! Get the kids off the couch and head out for some family fun.

This issue is the “Gardens” issue and it wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the Rose Pruning event which will continue throughout the second half of the month. With over 35,000 bushes to prune (can you imagine it—we struggle with our dozen bushes!), Sean O’Brien could possibly be Australia’s most experienced Rose Pruner—we speak to Sean to get some tips and we also find out his favourite rose variety.

When it comes to comfort food you really can’t go past a stew or soup on a cold night and of course, to fully enjoy your meal you’ll need a glass of wine to wash it down! Find out how to match your wine to your soup or stew for a truly heavenly feast! Enjoy (and stay warm!)

Enjoy!

Dine at the divine Circa 1876 until the 30th of July 2016 with our decadent 5 Course Tasting Menu for $120 per person (food only). Mention this ad to receive a complimentary take-home sample of our house made granola!

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!

Contents HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS

10

We take a look at how a lifelong dream resulted in one of the largest privately owned gardens in the world!

SHOPPING GALORE

13

Forget the overcrowded shopping centres, the Hunter Valley provides a hassle-free shopping experience. From antiques to gourmet foods, we have it all!

DESSERT DROPS

21

WINE & HEARTY STEWS

25

ROSE PRUNING

26

HUNTER BLACKBOARD MAP

32

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

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

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

Is there anything better than curling up after dinner with a ‘dessert’ of the liquid variety? We look at 6 of our favourites…

Hearty stews and soups are easy dinner options in Winter.

The difficult part is trying to select a wine to enjoy with them…

It takes a lot of work to get the roses at Hunter Valley Gardens looking so beautiful. This month, we talk to the man in charge of the daunting task of pruning over 35,000 rose bushes.

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

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

WHAT’S HOT IN THE HUNTER So Long, Farewell As a result of Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen opening up a new location in Pokolbin, they will be saying farewell to their Lovedale location on Monday July 11 with a special ‘Goodbye Lovedale Dinner'.

They will be clearing out the fridge and pantry to cook up a 5-course dinner for only $49 per person including BYO (bookings essential).

In true Nanna Kerr’s spirit, Jimmy and Matty will be offering up a wholesome delicious dinner, mostly organic and made with love!

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS WITH KARL STOCKHAUSEN

WHERE Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen, Emma’s Cottage Vineyard, 438 Wilderness Road, Lovedale. Phone 4998 7333. www.nannakerrskitchen.com.au

IS THERE SUCH THING...

As too much pizza?

The recently renovated Bodega Restaurant and Bar at Cypress Lakes Resort have a special pizza offer for Hunter Blackboard readers for the month of July. Get your friends together to try one of their famous 1 Metre Pizza’s for only $55, that’s a saving of $10!

(Conditions apply) With all your favourites on offer including Meat Lovers, Vegetarian, Godfather, Chicken Pesto, Hawaiian and Margherita, the hardest part is deciding who to invite to take on the challenge with you!

If pizza isn’t your thing, the menu at Bodega also includes a wide variety of options, however we strongly recommend the Ribs and Shanks that fall off the bone. Yum!

Join Briar Ridge as they celebrate the 25th Anniversary of their Karl Stockhausen Signature Series and pay homage to the contribution Karl has made to the Australian wine industry.

On Sunday 24th July at Muse Restaurant, guests will enjoy a showcase of wines from the Briar Ridge Karl Stockhausen range, alongside a carefully selected four-course lunch created by highly acclaimed Head Chef Troy Rhoades-Brown.

With relaxed all day dining and spectacular views overlooking the lake and golf course, a visit to Bodega Restaurant and Bar is a must!

For $150 per person, this event will no doubt sell out fast, so make sure you book early!

WHERE Bodega Restaurant and Bar, Cypress Lakes Resort, 15 Thompsons Road, Pokolbin.

To book call 4993 1555.

DETAILS Muse Restaurant, Hungerford Hill Winery, Broke Road, Pokolbin. To book contact Briar Ridge on 4990 3670 or vintageclub@briarridge.com.au

Ingredients (for 10 people)

THE ULTIMATE

Winter Warmer Glühwein (glow wine in German) is a hot, spiced wine also known as mulled wine or spiced wine. Originating in Europe, it consists of wine and spices heated to just below boiling point before drinking.

2 bottles of good quality red wine 2 cups of water 6 cloves 2 cinnamon sticks 2 oranges - cut into bite-size pieces Orange slices for decoration

Method

1. Put all ingredients in a pot and bring it close to boiling. For additional taste cut 2 oranges into bite-size pieces and add to the wine.

2. Let simmer.

Mulled wines are an ancient drink with a 3. Remove cloves and cinnamon stick before long history dating back to as far as 500BC serving it into slightly pre-warmed glasses. where spices and herbs were added to wine Decorate glasses with an orange slice. for health reasons as well as to improve the taste. In Australia, it is known as a If you'd like to try mulled wine, but don't delicious drink that warms up the body and wish to make it yourself, a few Hunter is popular in the snowfields, or anywhere Valley spots offer this delicious drink cold really! in these cooler months. Our favourites Ingredients can vary country to country, but include Kelman Vineyard, Goldfish here is a general recipe you can follow (and Bar & Kitchen, Epoche Lounge Bar at Sebel Kirkton Park and Calais Estate! add to if you wish):

thb 4 | JULY 2016

DAY/ NIGHT EVENT

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

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

#HunterValleyGardens #SnowTime

Admission charges apply. Program subject to change. Some activities may not open in adverse weather conditions and unscheduled maintenance.

Terms and conditions of entry apply. For your safety and comfort there are height and age restrictions on some rides and attractions.

Fun in the man-made snow!

INFLATABLES Bounce around with unlimited play on three massive inflatables. With a jumping castle and two super-fun obstacle courses, there’s enough excitement to keep the little ones entertained day and night.

REAL ICE TOBOGGAN This year’s Ice Toboggan is now an exhilarating 40 metres long. Go zooming down on your snow tube as many times as you like. It’ll be sure to get your blood pumping!

Whip out your Winter Woollies!

Enjoy all things winter, without having to travel to the snow at Hunter Valley Garden’s ‘Snow Time in the Garden’ on 10am – 9pm every day until July 17th.

With the Snow Time Play Zone area double the size it was last year, the Ice Toboggan almost double the length, the Ice Skating rink over 20% larger and 12 ‘Snow Time’ activities on offer, this year is even bigger and better fun for the school holidays! The best part is all activities are FREE once admission is paid!

SNOW TIME PLAY ZONE Double the space, double the fun! This fantastic man-made snow play area gives kids the freedom to build a snowman, make a snow angel or create a ‘Frozen’ palace. With two equally large play areas, there is more space for everyone to ‘chill out’.

ICE SKATING RINK Kick off your Snow Time fun with a spin around the Ice Skating Rink, now over 20% bigger than last year so there is more space to move around to disco lights and music. Skating sessions will run for 20 minutes and the rink can fit up to 240 skaters at any time. This year you can now spend Friday and Saturday nights (5pm – 9pm) dancing away on the ice at Snow Time’s Silent Disco on Ice. The family fun doesn’t end there! Other activities throughout the event include the HVG Super Slide, Snow Time Face Painting, the Giant Snow Globe, Arcade Alley and the Snow Ball Challenge. Other weekend activities include incredible live Ice Sculpting by Kenji Ogawa and the opportunity to meet different breeds of Snow Dogs. Plus, for those wanting a bite to eat, there will be a range of hearty food and warm beverage stalls offering delicious delights as well as The Garden Terrace Café open 9am – 5pm daily.

With loads on offer, it is time to brave the cold and keep the kids entertained these school holidays.

For more information and to prepurchase tickets, visit www.hvg.com.au

5 | JULY 2016 thb

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

CHRISTMAS IN JULY While we may not get snow in the Hunter Valley, Christmas in July celebrations allow us to get close to experiencing a Northern Hemisphere Christmas.

Here in the Hunter Valley, July is our coldest month, with average temperatures between 5⁰c and 17⁰c, making Christmas in July dinners increasing popular annual events.

This year, on the 23rd of July, RidgeView Restaurant is ensuring diners embrace the frosty weather with a mid-winter festive feast. The feast includes three courses, as well as Executive Chef Donna Hollis’ selection of canapés to start.

Start with a Seafood Taste Plate of prawns, seared scallops and salmon and chive rillette. The main event is a trio of roast meats, served with roasted root vegetables, and seasonal greens with a rich beef jus. The feast concludes with the renown Scott family traditional christmas pudding served with egg nog custard and vanilla bean ice cream. The cost is $65 per person or $80 per person with matching RidgeView wines. Bookings essential. To book call 6574 7332.

Across town, Hope Estate will be holding their popular Christmas in July dinner on Saturday 23rd of July. Join Chef Mert and his team from Harvest Restaurant for your fix

thb 6 | JULY 2016

of yuletide spirit as they prepare a three course dinner matched with Hope Estate wines and beer from Hope Brewhouse.

Kick off the mid-year silly season with a glass of sparkling and canapés on arrival followed by the delicious dinner in Hope Estate’s Great Cask Hall for $79 per person ($59 per person for members). Bookings essential. To book call 4993 3555 Embrace the chill and enjoy a mid-winter festive feast at Twine. Be treated to five courses, including quinoa crusted zucchini flower, baby squid filled with prawns and preserved lemon, prosciutto and sage wrapped pork tenderloin, traditional beef wellington with red wine jus and a Christmas pudding soft centred soufflé with baileys and almond ice-cream for dessert.

Celebrate Christmas in July at Twine on the 9th, 16th and 23rd July for only $80 per person. Bookings essential. To book email bookings@twinerestaurant.com.au Spread the Christmas Cheer all month at Esca Bimbadgen. With dishes that include confit daikon salmon, glazed wagyu short-rib and tarte tatin with mascarpone and cinnamon ice cream – it is difficult to resist the temptation to indulge and escape the frosty weather. The cost is $75 per person or $95 per person with matching Bimbadgen wines. To book call 4998 4666.

HAPPY FIRST BIRTHDAY iHOP! It is hard to believe that is has been a year since Tim and Kristy Burness launched iHop Hunter Valley. Since commencing the popular hop-on hop-off bus service 12 months ago, they have expanded their business to now include the Hunter Valley’s very first night tour. The night tours operate on Friday and Saturday nights and involves cheese and wine tasting, a two course dinner and also dessert.

To celebrate their 1st Birthday, iHop are offering 5% off a Day Hopper pass or $5 off a Night Tour during July!

BROKE V I L L AG E

e We ar ne! o turning

•Gourmet Foods •Farmers Produce •Boutique Wine •Handmade Gifts •Novelties •BBQ

y - Tour by Nigh t! iHop by Da To celebrate iHop turning one, we are offering 5% off a Day Hopper pass or $5 off the Night Tour during July!

Mention this ad when booking via phone or online to redeem this special offer.

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

iHop by Day - Explore picturesque Pokolbin aboard the Hunter Valleys only hop-on hop-off bus service and experience the best of local produce, cellar doors, dining and local attractions via 13 hourly Hops (stops). iHop operates Thursday to Monday 10am – 5pm.

Tour by Night - Savour the Hunter after dark with the Hunter Valley’s First Ever Night Tour! Continue your day into the night on a culinary delights tour with sit down 7-course matched cheese and wine tasting, followed by two-course “Tapas” style dinner and then finish the night at “Hunter’s Sweet Spot” dessert bar!

Friday and Saturday Nights only.

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

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

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

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

7 | JULY 2016 thb

i1n-4pm a m t r e m t o n ce f r a E r r e Live on the T or C 0 2 $

e nt

uc k B a n o

et s

c i al s e p S od o f a e S

Savour the weekend, kick back and relax with some great live music and Sunday specials!

BISTRO • LIVE ENTERTAINMENT • SPORTS BAR

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

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

Ph: 02 4998 4300 - www.harrigans.com.au - Broke Road Pokolbin

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..

thb 8 | JULY 2016

Hunter Valley Vineyards Boutique Cheesery

HUNTER VALLEY

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

• Tasting rooms open daily 9am to 5.30pm.

• Cheese-making and maturation room viewing all day.

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

Eat, drink... run!

WINERY RUNNING FESTIVAL It’s not every day that you get to run through world famous gardens, historic homesteads, and international golf resorts and of course, some of the most famous wineries in Australia. Mix that with a huge selection of races, a friendly country race crew, loads of prizes and the Winery Running Festival is an event not to be missed.

Now in its 11th year, the Winery Running Festival will be staged on Sunday 24th July with all events starting and finishing at the Hunter Valley Gardens Village in Pokolbin.

With six events on offer, the festival caters for both novice and serious competitors. The events include the Ultra Marathon, Winery Marathon, Half Marathon, 10.3km Vineyard Run, 5.2km Winery Wander and 2km Kids Marathon.

Now one of Australia’s biggest regional running events, this year’s festival is expected to attract more than 3000 participants and over 5000 spectators. Local Event Director, Paul Humphreys of H Events, puts the festivals success down to the interesting and picturesque course, which meanders through some of the region’s most famous vineyards and golf resorts. “We have a great host venue and with the start and finish lines just 100m apart, it makes spectating easy” says Humphreys.

A festive atmosphere will surround the event with sports, health and local produce exhibitors and live entertainment on offer. There will also be no shortage of things for spectators to do around the race compound, with food and drinks available on the oval, a children’s playground 200m away and of course Hunter Valley Gardens and the Gardens Village of shops and eateries just 100m away.

On the Saturday evening, a Pasta Party will be held at Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens in support of the event charity, Transplant Australia. It is a great opportunity to meet other runners, carbo load and support a great cause.

If you need a little more motivation, you can also run for a cause close to your heart by setting up a fundraising page for your favourite charity and invite family and friends to sponsor you.

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

www.huntervalleycheese.com.au

Further information about the event and entries are available online by visiting www.wineryrun.com

9 | JULY 2016 thb

EXPLORE

The Oriental Garden is a place of harmony, balance and serenity

·The Magnificence that is·

HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS Since it was first opened to the public in 2003, Hunter Valley Gardens has come to mean many things to many people. For some, it’s romantic memories of where they became engaged or celebrated their marriage, where they took their young children to explore the numerous feature gardens or took part in the annual festivals. For others, it is a place to reflect on life or re-visit childhood memories as they step back in time and laugh along with the favourite fairy-tale characters spaced throughout the Storybook Garden.

ago, it was grazing land for cattle and home to the area’s oldest Shiraz vineyard - which still remains today.

The creation of Hunter Valley Gardens was no small feat and it took 5 years of blood, sweat (and no doubt a few tears) and the efforts and skills of a talented crew of up to 50 gardeners to construct the gardens.

Add to this the tonnes of equipment and materials necessary for its construction. All in all, over 600,000 cubic metres of soil had to be moved and 300,000 cubic metres of soil brought in – not to mention the The sheer magnificence and beauty of the gardens is something to thousands of trees, shrubs, ground covers, over 100km of irrigation and behold and it is no surprise that the Gardens receives more than 200,000 8km of walking paths that were installed. visitors a year and has become a major tourist attraction and winner of countless tourism Awards for Excellence.

Spanning over 60 acres, the spectacular Hunter Valley Gardens amaze visitor’s year after year with its eight kilometres of walking paths, more than six thousand trees, one million ground covers, six hundred thousand shrubs and sensational sights, colours, and fragrances of a standard not found elsewhere in Australia.

What is now one of the largest privately owned gardens in the world started as a lifelong dream for retired couple Bill and Imelda Roche. The couple established Nutrimetics International in Australia in 1968 before later acquiring the worldwide interests of Nutrimetics International in 1991.

Together, Bill and Imelda wanted to create a garden that would be enjoyed by generations and today, Hunter Valley Gardens is so entwined into the tapestry of the area that it is difficult to recall that just 14 years

thb 10 | JULY 2016

The Lakes Walk is a gentle and picturesque walk by the lakes edge

Explore the World What resulted after five years, were 10 stunning feature gardens covering a total of 25 acres – each designed to take visitors on a “trip around the world” as they explore each new garden with an air of discovery at every turn. A true testament to nature's beauty. The display gardens alone required the planting of over 250,000 annuals, 35,000 roses, 6,000 mature trees, over 500,000 shrubs and 1,000,000 ground covers. A mammoth effort in anyone’s terms!

A visit to Hunter Valley Gardens is nothing short of a wondrous display of sight, colour and fragrance, providing an experience to heighten the senses. The Formal Garden is the largest of its type in Australia and is influenced by the formal gardens of France and England. A lavish array of colour and perfume can be found in the magnificent Rose Garden, with more than eight thousand roses on display. The Oriental Garden features a two-story traditional pagoda surrounded by natural Australian granite and winding streams full of spectacular water lilies and irises, while a 10-metre waterfall plummets into the Sunken Garden.

On entering the Indian Mosaic Garden, visitors pass through the 180-year-old antique Indian Elephant Gates and bronze elephant statues as they wind their way through Syzgium Australe hedges to discover a superb mosaic of ground covering plants and pebbles.

Visitors can also explore the Chinese Moongate Garden by entering through a traditional Moon Gate (an ancient Chinese landscape element acting as a portal between two gardens), which is guarded by two bronzed temple guardians to ward off evil spirits. There is also an Italian Grotto Garden featuring a statue of Saint Francis of Assisi - the patron saint of animals and the environment.

Festivals Galore and More For locals and visitors alike, Hunter Valley Gardens provides an exciting and enriching experience like no other and over the years has also played host to a growing number of annual events, including a range of school holiday events for the kids.

Snow Time in the Garden (on until July 17th) is a great opportunity for families to get together and experience an icy wonderland involving a giant ice skating rink, a 25 metre ice toboggan and a Snow Play Zone.

Also held every year in July is the Winter Rose Pruning and the Hunter Valley Running Festival.

Meet Alice at the Mad Hatters Tea Party in the Storybook Garden!

The Border Garden is designed to reflect classic French Parterre style

The Spring Festival of Flowers in September, the October Rose Spectacular and the amazing annual Christmas Lights Spectacular, with millions of lights on display including live entertainment, top off an events calendar that provides the visitor with a unique and exciting experience each and every time they visit.

TOP SPOTS

Left: The magestic Sunken Garden's 10m high waterfall Right: Not just for the kids, the Storybook Garden will walk you through all your favourite nursery rhymes!

11 | JULY 2016 thb

Indulge with

Hunter Valley

Chocolate

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

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

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

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

All things bees and honey!

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

• 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

Wine Glass Gallery Because great wine deserves a great wine glass

relax, unwind

& rejuvenate at Golden

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

Door

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

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

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

thb 12 | JULY 2016

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

Come and enjoy a friendly Hunter Valley Experience!

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

SHOP

Let’s GO!

Shopping in the Hunter Valley

Antiques, where you will find an exquisite array of spectacular jewellery, stylish watches, amazing giftware and homewares collected from all corners of the world.

Up there as one of the premier attractions to the area is the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company with its fine range of unique hand-made chocolate products and fudge. Just next door is Hunter Valley Liqueurs & Baerami Olives inviting you to an exciting and unique tasting experience There is a reason why shopping is often referred to as 'retail therapy'. Ask of specialty liqueurs, extra virgin olive oils and their famous caramelised any keen shopper and they will tell you there is something therapeutic balsamic vinegar. Also up there with the sweet treats is The British Lolly about finding a great bargain or splurging on that item you have been Shop where you can find all your old favourites and the largest range eyeing off for months. But these days shopping is losing its appeal as of imported English confectionary. You can even taste and stock up on a typical shopping outing consists of the frustrating experience spent everything to do with honey at the Hunter Honey Hive located in Ye Olde looking for that elusive car parking spot before having to wrestle your General Store. way through an overcrowded shopping centre full of shoppers with Finally, when you are all shopped out, take some personal time to trolley's, bags and prams and seemingly no direction. pamper yourself at Zen Hair Skin Body – a full hairdressing and beauty Thankfully shopping in the Hunter Valley is nothing like that! Instead, spa in one location. shopping in the Hunter Valley is an enriching and hassle free experience Also on Broke road - and just past Harrigans Irish Pub, you will discover full of adventure and even better when spent with friends, a partner a quaint group of shops known as Peppers Creek. It is here that you will or family. Work your way through these different and truly unique discover another Australian Alpaca Barn outlet. The perfect shop to visit experiences all within close proximity to each other and discover why in Winter, this wonderful and friendly store specialises in high quality shopping in the Hunter Valley can be both rewarding and fun.

Australian alpaca fashion products and accessories, all luxuriously soft For the ultimate shopping experience that is packed with discovery, take and warm. a trip to Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village located en route to Just further down Broke road you will find Pokolbin Village with its the gates of the world famous gardens themselves. As Pokolbin's town charming and friendly 'Village' atmosphere and another popular centre, Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village is extraordinarily tranquil destination for shoppers. Discover a delightful range of boutique and picturesque, with its own unique charm. Here you will find a variety specialty shops and a convenient on-site restaurant – Buon Cibo of galleries and boutique shops to choose from, as well as the other Restaurant, which serves some of the best coffee around. Just next door attractions that include the beautiful Chapel, mini golf and an aqua golf is Tempt and Vixen Giftware - a charming store offering a wonderful driving range. And just when you feel you need a break, there is a choice selection of art, jewellery, giftware, homewares, mirrors, lamps and of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a much needed coffee, tea furniture. Then there’s the Chocolate and Jam Outlet and General Store or snack or gourmet meal. for all your everyday needs. Tucked away at the end is the Smelly Cheese Browse your way through a mix of stores displaying home furnishings, Shop which is also conveniently located next to the Pokolbin Bottle Shop kitchenware, the latest fashion, gifts, books, stationery, jewellery, selling craft beers, fines wines and spirits. antiques, fragrances and accessories. For that unique gift or wedding If you are fortunate enough to be in the area when the local markets present with a difference, make sure you visit the extraordinary Wine are on – namely Handmade in the Hunter Markets held at Kevin Sobels Glass Gallery for colourful, handmade and crystal wine glasses or original Wines, then make sure you don’t miss out on discovering the variety and artwork, or The Twig with its selection of home furnishings and personal quality of goods grown or hand crafted by local artisans. They really are giftware. Then there’s the very unique Hunter Valley Christmas Shop too good to miss! where it is Christmas every day of the year! Pop into Australia's most famous boutique candle store, Candelabra or stock up on kitchenware Of course you cannot visit the Hunter Valley without tasting and buying and barware at The Waiters Friend. Satisfy your paper cravings at the very best local produce it has become famous for. Make your choice Pulp Addiction, with their extensive and intriguing range of designer from a large variety of delicious locally hand-made cheeses from the stationery. For those with an interest in fashion, take a peek in Wilson & Hunter Valley Cheese Factory and if you love farm fresh olives, oils Hunter. and tapenades then look no further than the Hunter Olive Centre on McDonalds Road and Adina Vineyard in Lovedale.

It doesn't end there as you head towards Australian Alpaca Barn to browse their range of quality Australian Alpaca fashion, homewares and Finally, if you find yourself in the Hunter over a weekend then take the accessories and even buy a current release next door at Village Books. time to experience a truly unique skill by visiting Ogishi Craft Centre Taste or buy wine, beer and even schnapps at the Gardens Cellars. Or which is only open on weekends and where you will find individually if it’s antiques that you are looking for then head to Peppers Creek hand blown glass products in every shape and colour.

13 | JULY 2016 thb

Top Coffee Spots in the Hunter The Deck Café at Gartelmann’s Estate in Lovedale take their coffee very seriously. To make sure they serve one of the best blends around they use Piazza D'Oro Espresso premium coffee blends, which are consistently exceptional and each display a distinctive espresso character. From delicate yet complex, to rich full-bodied dark roast, these carefully blended and slowly roasted coffees have been especially developed to offer regional taste nuances.

Coffee OBSESSED!

Australia has, in a relatively short period of time, become a land of coffee obsessives and a nation of people unafraid to declare that our coffee is in fact better than others.

We drink flat whites and long blacks, cold drip and single origin, lattes and cappuccinos – and we are very particular about who prepares and serves our daily latte. Yes, if our preferred barista is not at our favourite local coffee shop we may just keep on walking. We are a nation of coffee snobs – and we are not ashamed of it.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, about 46% of us are coffee drinkers, outnumbering our tea sipping friends at 38%.

Researcher IBISWorld estimates Australia’s competitive café and coffee shop industry is now worth around $4.3 billion to our economy.

thb 14 | JULY 2016

Known for their outstanding breakfasts and lunches (served with a glass of sparkling wine or two), Restaurant Cuvee also come highly recommended for their coffee which comes from local provider Crema Coffee Garage in Newcastle. The blend used is “Altitude” - a blend dominated by Brazilian beans grown on the plateaus overlooking Ipanema Beach in Rio. The supporting origins blended create an easy drinking coffee with well-balanced acidity and sweetness.

Apart from being the sweetest spot in the Hunter Valley and renowned for their selection of over 50 individually made desserts, Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar in Pokolbin also serve up a wonderful blend of coffee to complement their desserts.

The blend they use is the Glinelli Specialty Coffee blend – an in-house, award-winning milk based coffee from Mill House Roasters.

Zaih’s Café in Lovedale know how to make a delicious coffee and they source their beans from the respected Bay Coffee Roasters in Sydney. The blend they use is the Bay Roast Blend, which happens to be the roasters original and full bodied espresso blend with citrus and dark chocolate notes.

C OF F EE • B R EA K FAS T • B RUNCH • CATE RING

Check out whats happening on

Hermitage Road NEW MATILDA BAY BREWHOUSE HUNTER VALLEY

At Zaih’s, we want to offer our customers the best coffee and breakfast/brunch. We have a strong focus on quality and consistency, at an affordable price.

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

332 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale OPEN Wednesday to Sunday + Pub Hols 8am - 4pm www.zaihscafe.com.au • PH 0427 666 526

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.

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

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

HUNTER VALLEY RESORT

Singleton/ Branxton

Mistletoe Lane

H ermitage Road

Breakfast all days 8am – 10am Lunch Wed to Sun 12pm – 3pm High Tea Wed to Fri 12pm – 4pm Sat to Sun 12pm – 5pm Bookings essential: Ph 02 4998 4999 | convent@peppers.com.au

BIG KIDS CANDY MAKING Make Rocky Road from scratch.

d Roa rth

Our brand new lunch menu will be on proud display, and you will be delighted by our fresh take on comfort food.

Mention this ad to receive a take home sample of our house made granola!

The true heros of the menu are the incredible flavours found in each dish due in large part to their local origins. When was the last time you remember tasting a whole meal prepared from ingredients so fresh that they have not used a single piece of motorised transport to get from the ground to your plate?

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. It is the future of farm to fork dining.

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

Bookings essential.

Old No

RESTAURANT

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.

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

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

New England Highway

15 | JULY 2016 thb

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

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

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

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

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

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

Massive Wine Sale at The Garden Cellars

“Largest beer range

Come in and Pick & Mix 12 wines from $100.

Huge selection of wine to choose from.

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

in the valley!”

Mention this ad instore and receive a free bottle of wine with any purchase exceeding $30!

THE GARDEN

CELLARS

Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village Broke Road, Pokolbin OPEN 7 DAYS 10am - 5.30pm | PH 4998 7466 www.gardencellars.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 and foodies paradise. A leisurely 45 minute drive from Hunter Wine Country, the 180 year old Campbell’s Store houses 13 speciality shops, investment Australian Art Gallery, Antique Centre & Tearoom, all under one roof.

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

(Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day & Boxing Day)

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

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

thb 16 | JULY 2016

Putting Hart and Soul into the Hunter There's proof that all good things come in small parcels... and its small parcels of hand-picked, hand crafted Hunter Valley wine that Hart & Hunter specialise in.

Hart & Hunter is the venture of winemaking couple Damien Stevens and Jodie Belleville, along with partners Daniel and Elle Hart. It was created based on the concept of sourcing the highest quality fruit from selected vineyards in Pokolbin that have consistently turned out wines that are truly indicative of their terroir.

With a particular focus on varieties such as Semillon, Shiraz and Chardonnay, Damien and Jodie are also one of only a few winemakers in the Hunter producing unique varieties such as Fiano and Chenin Blanc. It is this dedication and passion for producing great wines that has paid off, with their beautifully elegant wines fast gaining industry respect.

Although a relatively new brand, Hart & Hunter “exploded” to notoriety at the 2010 Hunter Valley Wine Show when, in competition against some of the Hunter’s top Semillon producers, their 2010 Single Vineyard Semillon took the Marshall-Flannery Trophy for the best current vintage Semillon and the H.J. Lindeman Trophy for the best current vintage dry white of the show.

Since then, Hart & Hunter have not looked back and have gone on to establish an enviable reputation for their wines – both red and white.

This initial success was subsequently repeated at the 2015 Hunter Valley Boutique Winemakers Show, with Hart and Hunter taking home 3 trophies for their 2014 Chardonnay, 2015 Oakey Creek Single Vineyard Series Semillon and the 2014 Ablington Vineyard Shiraz.

They then followed up their local show success with three gold medals for the 2015 Oakey Creek Semillon, the 2015 The Remparts Semillon and the 2015 Dr B’s Fiano at the 2015 Pier One Sydney Harbour NSW Wine Awards.

Damien and Jodie are no strangers to the local wine scene, having both plied their craft in the Hunter Valley for many years and both spent time at First Creek, working alongside Chief Winemaker Liz Silkman (nee Jackson).

Born in Coffs Harbour, Damien's career started in the hospitality industry, working in London, Belfast and France, where he developed his love for wine. Returning to Australia, he launched himself into a wine career that took him to First Creek, then Wandin Valley before returning to First Creek as winemaker in late 2008.

Damien has also worked on numerous overseas vintages including Cloudy Bay in New Zealand and De Conaillis in Italy and on occasion serves as a wine show judge at wine shows that include the Hunter Valley Wine Show, Australian/New Zealand Organic Wine Show and the NSW Wine Awards.

Jodie grew up in Taree and worked as a winemaker at both Brokenwood and McGuigan wineries before going to First Creek.

Damien and Jodie's passion to find a suitable location to produce and promote their wines was realised with the opening of their Hart & Hunter winery and cellar door on Deasy's Road in Pokolbin in the middle of 2014.

It's a site well-chosen and was previously the location of Gabriel's Paddock winery and the cellar door of the renowned Sutherlands Wines.

For both Damien and Jodie, recognising the regions history and giving their wines a sense of place is important. For that reason, they include the latitude and longitude and the name of the vineyards where the fruit comes from on their wine labels.

17 | JULY 2016 thb

DINING

The Cellar Restaurant WORDS Quentin von Essen

The Cellar Restaurant is in a word "unique" and without a doubt one of the finest restaurants in the Hunter. Owners Andy and Janet Wright have made The Cellar Restaurant a summer and winter favourite amongst both locals and visitors to the Hunter Valley. In winter, there is no better place to be with the centrally located fire keeping diners warm over the cooler months and in summer, you get to enjoy the longer warmer evenings while dining alfresco. This is by far one of the most central and most convenient spots in the Hunter to go for a meal.

The welcome is warm and friendly as we are shown to our table and being a cold evening we were pleased to be seated close to the huge stone fireplace in the middle of the room, which gives the place an unpretentious and almost medieval feel. This is further enhanced by the lush foliage growing around the perimeter of the restaurants interior.

After a quick study of the extensive menu, which is divided into sections that include oysters, smallgoods (for sharing), entrees, mains, from the grill, sauces and desserts, you soon come to realise why The Cellar is considered one of the Hunters most outstanding restaurants. Andy who is also the Head Chef has created a refreshingly diverse and well thought out menu with Mediterranean inspired influences and an emphasis on fresh local produce.

The wine list is generous and includes a large range of excellent local Hunter Valley wines, as well as those from other regions around Australia and a few overseas comparisons thrown in for good measure.

For entrée we deliberated long and hard over the Indian spiced kangaroo and chargrilled local asparagus and Bass Strait scallops, before deciding upon the chargrilled quail and Queensland prawns.

The service was excellent and attentive and we did not have to wait long before our entrees arrived. The quail was superbly presented with sweet corn blinis, hummus, local honey, pomegranate and watercress. This delightfully simple dish with its complex flavours was beautifully

thb 18 | JULY 2016

prepared and delicious. The quail meat was delicate and tender and the velvety, slightly sour taste of the hummus provided a wonderful contrast to the sweet and sour flavours of the pomegranate. The addition of sumac added an almost tangy, lemony flavour to the quail.

The Queensland prawns were a superb choice and accompanied by salt cod fritters and slow roasted tomato with caper and tarragon mayonnaise. Queensland prawns are always a crowd pleaser and these did not disappoint - perfectly cooked and wonderfully offset by the saltiness of the capers and the tangy sweetness of the tarragon, which took the mayonnaise to a completely new level. The cod fritters were just as delicious and these golden nuggets of deep-fried love had the perfect texture and delightful with the rich flavoured mayonnaise.

For our main dishes we selected the free range Berkshire pork chop and the pan fried barramundi with sides that included garlic mash and green beans with almonds.

The Berkshire pork chop arrived perfectly prepared – succulent and juicy and the sweetness of the meat was further enhanced by the spicy fig and apple relish. The crackling delicately perched on top of the chop was some of the best I have ever tasted – wonderfully golden and perfectly crisp.

The pan fried barramundi was served exactly how it should be, with the flesh firm and moist with a delicate flavour and served with café de Paris butter – a complex herb, spiced butter sauce. To me, this was a perfect example of inspirational cooking with great flavour combinations.

Dessert at The Cellar Restaurant is always hard to refuse and on this occasion we ordered the Black forest gateau ice cream served with a brandy snap 'cigar' and chocolate sauce and the classic old school "Eton Mess" – an English dessert consisting of a mixture of strawberries or bananas, pieces of meringue, and cream, which is traditionally served at Eton College's annual cricket game against Harrow School.

There are many different versions of this highly popular dessert and with Chef Andy Wright being of English heritage I was fascinated to see (and taste) his version, which was Vanilla panna cotta with meringue, strawberry jellies and sprinkles and truly outstanding. Both desserts were a wonderful end to a perfect meal and excellent with a glass of Constable Estate Moscato.

There is a great deal to love about The Cellar Restaurant - the wonderful setting, the food and warm attentive service. With the emphasis on simplicity of ingredients, great execution and presentation, The Cellar Restaurant is up there with the best in regional dining.

Your always welcome at...

Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant

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

It tastes healthy, light and delicious.

A favourite dining experience for locals and visitors alike.

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

Takeaway available every day.

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

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

/OishiiPokolbin

PK's on Pokolbin

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

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

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

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

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

PH (02) 4990 4002

AWARD WINNING VENUE

455 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin NSW 2320

LIVE MUSIC AND GREAT FOOD AT POTTERS HOTEL BREWERY RESORT

HOME OF

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

RELAX

BREWERY

BEER

WINE COUNTRY’S FIRST MICRO-BREWERY

BRASSERIE

FOOD TOURS

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

Mostly organic & made with love

19 | JULY 2016 thb

Escape the cold at Blaxlands Inn Nestled in the heart of the Hunter Valley, Blaxlands Estate is a 28-acre property on Broke Road, Pokolbin. It includes a Cellar Door that has a great range of wholesale fresh meats and cheese for sale, as well as their range of Blaxlands Estate wines available for tasting or purchase.

Family owned and operated by the Clarke family, Blaxlands Inn restaurant is renowned throughout the region for its hearty meals, friendly staff and country comfort atmosphere. It is the perfect place for a great meal with family and friends, or a place to relax and unwind with a refreshing ale or glass of wine selected from the best local boutique wineries. Escape the cold by dining inside by their open fire or outside under the stars by the outdoor firepit.

The menu includes a great range of burgers, salads, and their famous deep dish pies, as well as Certified Angus Steak from the Clarke family’s Snake Creek Cattle Company. The Clarke family are fourth generation cattle breeders who focus on producing and sourcing the best available beef in NSW, from the paddock to the restaurant plate.

Forget fighting over who is going to be designated driver, as Blaxlands Inn provide diners with a courtesy vehicle that is available to pick you up and drop you off at your accommodation within the Valley (bookings advised).

With the warm country ambience, friendly staff and great value meals, a trip to the Hunter Valley would not be complete without a visit to Blaxlands Inn. For more information, visit www.blaxlandsinn.com.au

thb 20 | JULY 2016

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

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

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

Dessert Wines...

Sunshine in a Bottle!

Dessert wines are sweet, luscious after-dinner drinks that linger on your palate more deliciously than any mousse, cake or tart. Affectionately known as ‘stickies,’ these sweet wines are a sensational accompaniment to fruit desserts and are perfect with blue or soft cheeses. Alternatively, they can stand alone as a replacement for dessert at the end of a meal.

Fermented in the same manner as conventional white wines, dessert wines tend to be intensely flavoured, deeply gold in colour with bouquets of dried apricots, a rich sweet flavour and a sharp acid finish.

The types of desserts that a dessert wine can go with are limitless but the general rule is for the dessert wine to be sweeter than the desserts to avoid having the dessert over-power the dessert wine.

Some of the world’s greatest sweet wines such as such as Sauternes from Bordeaux are made from Noble Rot. Readers may also be familiar with De Bortoli Noble One Botrytis Semillon - arguably Australia’s most famous dessert wine.

Wines made from botrytised grapes are generally medium-sweet to very sweet, typically displaying aromas and flavours of tropical, stone and soft citrus fruits, honey, marzipan and liquorice. These wines are not only wonderful with desserts such as a fruit tart, but are also perfect when accompanied with strong washed-rind cheese and blues such as Roquefort.

Ice Wine (Eiswein): Freezing grapes is another way to concentrate sugars to make sweet wine. When made in the traditional way, ice wine, or “eiswein” as it is called in Germany and Austria, is left on the vine long after the typical harvest is finished until temperatures drop enough for Lightly Sweet Dessert Wine the grapes to freeze. Ice wines are commonly produced in cold regions Lightly sweet dessert wines are the ultimate dessert wine for fruit-based like Canada, Germany and Switzerland. and vanilla-driven desserts. These wines are generally refreshingly sweet Fortified Wines and perfect for a hot day. When it comes to food, these wines are well matched to spicy foods like Indian and Asian cuisine. Some of the lightly Fortified dessert wines such as Sherry, Port, and Madeira are made by sweet wines on the market today include Gewürztraminer, Riesling and adding alcohol (brandy spirits) during fermentation. This actually kills Chenin Blanc. These wines are usually best served cold and are meant to the yeasts that convert sugar to alcohol leaving the wine very sweet and be enjoyed at their freshest, although some, such as Riesling, age well. increasing the alcohol level to between 15 and 20%.

Here's a quick overview of three of our favourite fortified and dessert wine styles.

Richly Sweet Dessert Wine Richly sweet wines are made with the highest quality grapes in an unfortified style and can age 50 years or more. This is because their sweetness and acidity preserve their fresh flavour. There are several ways to produce richly sweet dessert wines: Late Harvest: Late harvest means exactly that. Often described as “liquid sunshine” these wines are traditionally made from grapes that are left on the vines until the end of the harvest so that they ripen to their fullest before naturally dehydrating. The result is a wine that has a higher residual sugar (or alcohol, depending on how long it is left to ferment).

Late harvest is usually an indication of a sweet dessert wine such as late harvest Riesling, Pinot Gris or Semillon. Semillon is the favourite grape used in dessert wines because its thinner skin allows for a more effective state of botrytis and therefore sweeter juice. When it comes to food, fois gras, blue cheese and light chocolate desserts are excellent pairings for a late harvest Semillon.

The types of spirit used and the point at which the spirit is added, has an enormous impact on the style of wine being made. Generally, the earlier the spirit is added, the sweeter the resulting wines.

After fortification, the wine is left to mature in oak barrels, sometimes for decades, maturing into complex, aromatic wines, with immense depth and concentration of flavour and colour.

Muscat grapes are used to make a variety of sweet dessert wines in various parts of the world. Typically, these are fortified wines, although some sweet late harvest and noble rot wines are also made from Muscat grapes.

Liqueur Muscat is a fortified wine from the Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains, which is a white wine grape and considered one of the oldest grape varieties in existence (also known as Brown Muscat grapes). The wine is sweet, dark and highly alcoholic with similarities to the Portuguese fortified wine Madeira.

Liqueur Muscat essentially starts out as a late harvest wine, with the Noble Rot: While it may not sound very appealing, some of the most grapes left on the vine longer than usual - until they are practically sought after dessert wines in the world are made from grapes that are, raisins and very sweet. well… rotten. The fruit is covered in a fungus called botrytis cinerea - also Check out some of our favourite dessert drops on the next page! known as “noble rot,” which causes it to shrivel and dehydrate, leaving behind extra sweet pulp, which the winemakers then press for juice.

While it sounds and looks disgusting, it adds a unique and highly soughtafter flavour of ginger and honey to the wine.

21 | JULY 2016 thb

Dessert Drops EMMA’S COTTAGE VINEYARD

ADINA VINEYARD

Emma’s Cottage Vineyard in Lovedale is one of the smallest family-owned vineyards in the Hunter and proof that great things come in small packages!

Adina Vineyard in Lovedale has a wide range of award-winning wines from some of Australia’s oldest vines and vineyards. Vines were first grown on the property in the 1860’s, and the modern vineyard was established in 1980.

TASTING Dolce d’Oro means “Sweet Gold” – a perfect description for this wine made from Semillon grapes harvested late in the season when conditions conspired to produce Botrytis cinerea, the 'Noble Rot'. This is a luscious dessert-style wine with a bouquet that is fresh and fruity, with lemon, honey and marmalade aromas. The palate has an intense fruit flavour that is balanced by a crisp pineapple acidity, the finish is sweet, fresh and clean.

2011 Liqueur Shiraz Pirates Treasure

Breathtakingly delicious, the grapes for this 2011 Liqueur Shiraz were late picked and hand harvested, selecting only the best fruit.

TASTING A strikingly rich, fruit driven Liqueur Shiraz with a nose of fruitcake followed by a smooth palate hinting of stewed plums and cherries. It is a luscious, full flavoured, mouth-filling and ultimately silky smooth wine with a pleasant lingering spirit warmth.

This is wine to warm the cockles of any pirates cold heart and the perfect drink to finish the night. Superb on its own or served with rich, warm desserts, dark chocolate or strong cheeses.

CELLARING Drink now or cellar for up to 10 years.

Perfect with desserts and cheese platters and for lovers of sweet wines very appealing as an after dinner drink.

HUNTER DISTILLERY

PETERSON HOUSE

Hunter Distillery is a certified organic distillery located on Broke Road, Pokolbin. Locally owned and operated, Hunter Distillery produces an exceptional range of top shelf spirits, including Vodkas, Liqueurs, Schnapps and their award winning Copperwave Gin. TASTING This Caramel Vodka is an amazing blend of Hunter Distillery’s world renowned Premium Organic Vodka with caramel. It provides the perfect balance between sweet and savoury, with aromatic caramel that precedes a buttery golden flavour for a taste that is completely delicious with a notable spirit finish.

Located at the ‘gateway’ to the Hunter Valley, Peterson House is unique to the region as they specialise in premium sparkling wines made in the traditional method.

Caramel Vodka

Hunter Distillery’s Caramel Vodka is the perfect topping for ice cream or over a pudding such as sticky date. Or simply as a drink on the rocks, combined with Bailey’s to make a “Cowboy” type dessert cocktail. It's also fantastic in coffee to create a caramel latte.

2010 Fortified Shiraz

TASTING The 2010 Fortified Shiraz is an exciting interpretation of fortified wine. It is deep, dark and rich in colour with hues of magenta and cerise.

The aromas are of overtly ripe jammy fruits; plum and black fruits; with hints of pepper and spice.

The flavours of ripe raspberry and boysenberry up front are luscious, rich, generous and sweet. This is black forest cake and plum pudding squeezed into a bottle.

Despite the fruity sweetness, the finish is far from cloying. Some tannins and acid balance the aftertaste.

Best when served very cold. Enjoy with chocolate mud cake, dark chocolate tart, or even a spicy Vindaloo.

BRIAR RIDGE

IRONBARK HILL

Located in the Mount View region of the Hunter Valley, Briar Ridge is one of the leading producers of iconic Hunter Valley wines and has been awarded numerous accolades on both the national and international Wine Show Circuit. This is reinforced by their 5 star rating awarded by James Halliday.

Peter Drayton is a 5th generation descendant of the Drayton Family and is a proud producer of a range of award winning wines at his Ironbark Hill vineyard. Set at the foot of the Brokenback range, the 40-hectare property with 16 hectares under vine is unique, in that it is able to produce seven varieties of wine from the single individual vineyard.

TASTING The grapes for this wine were late harvested to ensure exceptionally ripe fruit with a high level of natural fruit sweetness. The wine was aged in oak barrels for 3 to 5 years before bottling, which has resulted in a modern “Port style” fortified wine with rich pepper and licorice spice aromas and flavours.

2014 Late Harvest Gewürztraminer

The grapes were picked late after ripening to enhance some dehydration and flavour concentration and allowing for a true late harvest style to be made.

TASTING This is a rich and opulent dessert wine.

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

CELLARING Drink now or cellar for up to 5 years.

thb 22 | JULY 2016

2012 Dolce d'Oro Botrytis Semillon

Liqueur Shiraz

The Ironbark Hill Liqueur Shiraz is the perfect after dinner and accompaniment to a delicious cheese platter.

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

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

An amazing experience not to be missed.

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

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 23 | JULY 2016 thb

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

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

$55 SAVE $10

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

Call 4993 1555 to book.

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

*

CYP1841 Hunter Valley Blackboard Ad 190wx135mm.indd 1

thb 24 | JULY 2016

20/05/16 10:04 AM

FOOD + WINE

WHICH WINES

Go Best with our Favourite Soups and Stews?

With winter upon us, our thoughts naturally drift towards warm comfort food and for many of us that conjures up images of steaming soup or a dish of hearty stew.

What about chicken soup? If it's creamy, a lightly oaked Chardonnay would be the easiest match. If it's a Thai style soup made with coconut milk, try pairing it with an Australian Riesling or Verdelho.

A more luxurious soup, like clam chowder with its briny and salty taste, calls for the citrusy zest of a Riesling. The lemon and lime accents cut through the silky, rich broth and the starchy potato texture of the chowder.

Soups, stews, chilli and chowder are staples for cooler weather, however, pairing wines with your favourite soup recipes can be tricky. If you break down your soup ingredients and view them as you would a pasta sauce or something similar, then your task becomes a lot easier.

What better way to put an end to winter blues than a meal of rich beef stew or a casserole that has been left simmering for a few hours?

But what to drink? Most of us think hearty wines complement thick, meaty soups and stews, and sometimes that just might be the case, but in reality it's the ingredients that determine the perfect pairing. Earthy flavours like spices, herbs, and tomatoes, call for wines with good acidity.

But sweeter veggies, such as onions, carrots, sweet potato and squash, require wines with a more rounded, lush and fruity flavour.

Stews tend to be intensely flavoured with a rich thick sauce, so you could argue that you need a big wine to hold its own. But that can be overwhelming. What is required is a slightly lighter red and wines such as Syrah, Grenache, Malbec and Tempranillo may just prove to be a better option.

Of course, it does depend what liquid’s in the stew. If it’s beer, as in a classic Belgian Witbier then that is what you should be drinking. Stews that have a savoury, meaty taste often pair better with ales than with wine. If they’re made with wine however, it’s best to choose a similar style of wine to that used in the dish.

If the stew is spicy like a chilli con carne, then you may need a red such as Zinfandel or Malbec or even a Shiraz. But watch out for big tannins which can combine with spicy flavours to create a palate overload.

When thinking about wines to pair with Beef Bourguignon, Pinot Noir immediately comes to mind. However, since we are basically talking about beef stew, one can expand the list to include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or any other red wine than has sufficient tannins to counter the rich and tender stewed beef.

Here are some pairings to get you started: • Chicken Noodle Soup would pair well with a Pinot Noir or even a Chenin Blanc.

• A Cream of Chicken Soup on the other hand would likely prefer a Sauvignon Blanc or Viognier.

• Mushroom Soup, if it’s creamy, would pair well with a lightly oaked Chardonnay. If it's darker and more mushroomy try a Pinot Noir.

• If you are serving a Seafood Bisque (or stew) you will want to try a Sauvignon Blanc Keep in mind that there are no hard and fast rules for pairing wine with foods and specifically soups, stews and alike; however, there are certainly some wines that will enhance a pot of soup far better than others. Don't be afraid to experiment.

25 | JULY 2016 thb

IN THE GARDEN

Sean's Tips for Beautiful Blooms What is the optimal month to cut back roses?

Depending on where you live will determine this but in the Hunter the best time is July.

How far back should roses be pruned?

EVERYTHING

is coming up Roses!

Roses have a very long and colourful history. According to fossil evidence, roses are over 35 million years old. In that time, they have been used for various functions and have been symbols for love, beauty, even war and politics. During the Roman period, they were used as confetti at celebrations, for medicinal purposes, and as a source of perfume. In ancient Egypt, roses were regarded as the most sacred of flowers and were used as offerings for the Goddess Isis.

Today, roses are still considered one of the most popular flowers in the world and it is easy to understand their appeal. Apart from their fragrant blooms, they flower for up to six months of the year and are the most forgiving plant in your garden. They will continue to flower even if you neglect them, but they do benefit with a good winter prune.

Pruning roses is important because it encourages air circulation, helps to reduce disease and increases light exposure. The plant can then focus its attention and energy on producing beautiful blooms for next season.

By visiting Hunter Valley Gardens between the 18th and 31st of July, visitors will learn that anybody can grow beautiful roses with the correct knowledge on planting, pruning and striking cuttings.

Hunter Valley Gardens annual Winter rose pruning entails pruning over 35,000 rose bushes from 125 different varieties. If you’ve ever wondered how it’s done, then there is no doubt that the person to ask is Sean O’Brien – Horticulture Manager at Hunter Valley Gardens.

Over the past 12 years, Sean has handled the management of all horticultural aspects of his “office” – a 65-acre property, of which, 60 acres is made up of exquisite international display gardens.

thb 26 | JULY 2016

Your common garden variety rose can be pruned back by up to two thirds, but it is more important to take the dead and diseased wood out rather than focusing on how far you cut them back. You should always prune back to an outward facing bud as well, which will determine the height of your canes.

What is the best way to protect roses during winter?

Roses don’t need any special protection throughout winter, but a spray with lime sulphur helps to keep fungal diseases at bay and should be applied before new growth appears.

How long does the Winter Rose Pruning at Hunter Valley Gardens take? How many people does it take?

We generally start in mid-June and it takes about six weeks with more than 15 staff taking on the challenge.

Do you have a favourite rose variety?

‘Just Joey’ would be my personal favourite in terms of bush roses, mostly due to its exquisite perfume.

Why do vineyards place roses at the end of rows of grapevines?

This was used as a practical method to identify fungal diseases in the grapevines, as the roses share similar diseases with grapes and would get the disease before the vines, indicating the time to spray. These days it is used more for show than anything.

Introducing the Hunter Valley's

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

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

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

PO K O LB IN E STAT E V INEYARD

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

VINEYARD

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

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

Organic Wines

GREAT TASTING • AWARD WINNING • CERTIFIED ORGANIC

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

203 Thompsons Rd, Milbrodale, NSW 2330 www.ascellawine.com info@ascellawine.com

‘5 Red Stars For Excellence’

James Halliday’s Wine Companion

358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin tamburlaine.com.au 27 | JULY 2016 thb

Much more than a Vineyard.

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

Epicure Café is nestled in the heart of wine country, offering a relaxed casual dining experience. Open for breakfast and lunch and anything in between.

Come Waltzing with Matilda...

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

Chef/Owner Andreas Burri uses fresh seasonal produce with an emphasis on local products and delivering on taste.

2/246 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998 6665 OPEN Mon to Fri 9am – 4pm, Sat & Sun 9am – 5pm

Cheers Bus

Hunter Valley Guided Winery Tours

Book your tour securely at www.cheersbus.com • Private or shared deluxe tours in an air conditioned mini bus, seven days per week • Pick up from your local accommodation or group pickups only from Sydney, Central Coast, Newcastle, Maitland and Singleton areas and be escorted throughout the day • Witness the beauty and tranquillity of Hunter Wine Country on route to our our your chosen boutique cellar doors, as well as vodka, schnapps, cheese, olive and chocolate tastings • Wedding, restaurant, concert and airport transfers available

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

PETERSON HOUSE PREMIUM SPARKLING WINES

Cellar Door Open 7 days 9am-5pm

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

mium Sparkling Wines thb 28 | JULY 2016

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

Sabor’s Sticky Date Pudding with Butterscotch Sauce

AT HOME

Ingredients Sticky Date Pudding 400g pitted dates 150g self-raising flour 100g plain flour 3 eggs 140g caster sugar 100g butter (room temperature) 1 ½ tsp bi-carb soda 330ml boiling water

Butterscotch Sauce 250g thickened cream 80g unsalted butter 200g brown sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract

Method 1. Preheat your oven to 190⁰C. 2.Grease a deep 8 muffin tray and line the pan with baking paper (or use non-stick baking cups).

3. In a mixing bowl, mash dates with the back of a fork then mix in the boiling water with bi-carb soda.

4. In a separate bowl, add caster sugar and softened butter and beat until combined and creamy. Then add in the eggs individually, beating between each one.

5. Fold in self-raising flour, plain flour and date mixture until well combined.

6. Divide the mixture between the 8 muffin inserts, then slightly tap the tray on the bench to smooth out the tops.

7. Bake for approx. 28-32 minutes or until the tops bounce back when you press down on them, then place aside.

8. Place the brown sugar, thickened cream, unsalted butter and vanilla extract in a saucepan over low to medium heat for approximately 7 minutes or until it’s golden brown and smooth (Note: To thicken, leave over medium heat for an additional 3-5 minutes or until it starts to thicken up).

9. Remove puddings from muffin tray, plate them up and pour over warm butterscotch sauce.

10. Serve with a vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped thickened cream.

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

Sabor will be closed from July 18th until August 4th

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 Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar in Pokolbin!

Located at Lambloch Estate 2342 Broke Rd, Pokolbin • PH 1300 958 939 Open Thurs 10am - 4.30pm, Fri & Sat 10am - 9.30pm, Sun & Mon 10am - 4.30pm

www.saborinthehunter.com.au 29 | JULY 2016 thb

Much ado about Muscat Muscat (Moscato in Italy or Moscatel in Spain and Portugal) is the name given to one of the oldest grape families in the world. The Muscat family of grapes is said to have originated in the Middle East and includes over 200 grape varieties belonging to the Vitis Vinifera species, that have been used in various forms of wine production throughout the world for many centuries.

There is no one "true" Muscat, but rather a great many incarnations, each with its own regional character. Today, the grape is found throughout the wine producing world making a wide range of wines from light, sweet sparkling and semi-sparkling wines to dry and fortified Muscat, such as that found in Australia.

Named for its characteristic small berries and seeds (petits grains), the Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains is a white wine grape and the oldest member of the Muscat family and perhaps the oldest domesticated grape variety in the world.

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!

Photo courtesy of Mount View Tourism.

thb 30 | JULY 2016

While technically a white grape, it is common for various Muscats to change the colour of their skins from one vintage to another - for example there are strains of Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains vines that produce berries that are pink or reddish brown. The same vine could potentially produce berries of one colour one year and a different colour the next. These strains are more prevalent in Australia where the grape is also known as Frontignac and Brown Muscat.

Variants where the differing grape colour is stable are typically classified as separate grape varieties, Muscat Rouge à Petits Grains for red skin colour and Muscat Rose à Petits Grains for pink skin colour.

The distinctive grapey aroma of Muscat is one of its foremost properties, but the variety’s versatility also makes it an attractive option for winemakers. Drawbacks include low acidity and an inability to age more than about four years (with the exception of fortified Muscat). Muscat can be produced as dry, medium, sweet, sparkling or even dessert wine.

Because of its strong grapey flavors, various Muscats are widely grown as table grapes around the world.

Being a typically sweet, rich wine that may have spicy notes, it is a wine often served on its own after a meal as a dessert wine. However, it can be paired with foods that either have a similar sweetness and richness or contrast with the wine by providing fresh or acidic tastes that work with the wine. Muscat is excellent with fruit based desserts - banana and vanilla custard or caramel slice, full bodied cheeses such as blue cheese and gorgonzola, milk chocolate and dry cookies, such as biscotti. Dry Muscat can be paired with seared kingfish sashimi with citrus dressing or seared scallops with a fennel salad and even appetizers before a meal.

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

Designed to Delight.

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

31 | JULY 2016 thb

C

D

E

TO SINGLETON

F

G

H

I

RD KE BRO

J

O

< 15KM >

PUTTY RD

K i

L

e r t s Road

M

i

Fletcher St

i

Olsen Road

30KM >

N

Fleming St

Hunter Beer Co.

Potters Hotel

The Brickworks Brasserie

Lomas Lane

Capercaillie Wines

Londons Rd

d oa sR

M

De Beyers Road

POKOLBIN2 (SOUTH)

DRIV NTRY OU C E

Hunters Quarter Restuarant

Halls Rd

Cypress Lakes Resort

i

n do Lon

Lodge Road

L

Bodega Restaurant & Bar

De Beyers Rd PK’s on Pokolbin Café Visitor Information

Handmade in the Hunter Markets at Kevin Sobels Wines

i

N WI

Roche Estate ad Ro Oishii Japanese-Thai rs e Restaurant Tamburlaine y Be Organic Wines De Pokolbin Estate

Circa 1876 Epicure Café Eighty Eight Campbells Lne

i

E IV DR

Tho mp Factory son Golden ’s R d Door Elysia

i

Blaxlands Inn

D

HV Cheese

i

Hope Estate

BROKE ROAD

HV Chocolate Co. Balloon Aloft Meeting Point

Peterson House

LOVEDA

Harrigans Irish Pub

Australian Alpaca Barn

i

HV Chocolate Co.

Lambloch Estate

LOVEDALE

Zaih’s Café

Brickmans Lane

TO NEWCASTLE

K

D e Beyers Road

Ekerts Road

BROKE ROAD

i

Pokolbin Village

MCDONALDS ROAD

Hunter Distillery

i

Gillards Road Constable Estate

Green Lane

Adina Vineyard HV Reflections Day Spa

The Deck Café

TO BRANXTON MAITLAND MORPETH

MORPETH

J

Broke Village Markets

ALE RD

Hunter Honey Hive The Cellar Restaurant The Garden Cellars

Sabor in the Hunter

The Verandah Restaurant

Wilderness Road

Australian Alpaca Barn

20

I

BROKE

OD

HV Chocolate Co.

C NE Palmers Lane

Emmas Cottage Vineyard

Dark Horse Vineyard

Campbells Store

LOVEDALE ROAD

Wine Glass Gallery

OU NT R Y

Australian Alpaca Barn

Palmers Lane

De

I

Talga Road

HV Horseriding and Adventures

TO WINE COUNTRY DRIVE

St Swan

19

M

Hunter Valley Gardens HVG Shopping Village

Deasys Road

Hart & Hunter

W

Station St

H

TO BLUE MOUNTAINS

M ILL BR

i

d oa sR asy

Fleet St

Drinan St

18

ER HUNTER RIV TO MORPETH RD EAST MAITLAND

17

G

Ascella Pure Wines

e

Matilda Bay Brewhouse

n Cl

D HWY

TO MAITLAND

16

F

TO SINGLETON

Lan Mistle to e

HERMITAGE ROAD

Hermitage Road Cellars

d

B lackbur

NEW ENGLAN

Tuckers Lane

15

BRANXTON

14

k St

Blueberry Hill

Coulso nR

Road rth No

13

ST BRIDGE

POKOLBIN1 (NORTH)

ad

Sweetwater Road

Old No rth Ro

Old

TO BRANXTON

12

DR IV

Hunter Valley Wine Theatre Hunter Valley Wine School

Ro ad

11

CLIFF ST

k Hill Rd Ironbar

Peter Drayton Wines

rth

10 Elderslie Rd

iHop Stop

No

9

AY W SS E PR EX

E

Thompsons’s Rd

i

ld

8

C O UNTRY Tan

Spa/Health Retreat

7

oad Camp R

Markets

RidgeView Wines and Restaurant

6

R TE

Gourmet Produce

TO SINGLETON

5

N HU

Shopping

4

WI NE

Cellar Door

Restaurant

MAP NOT TO SCALE

3 k Rd Par onix Phe

D

Ek

B

C

A

2

B

O LE R

A E

1

A N

e Lan rs ajo

McCarthy Rd

E

MC

Q

R

S

T

2

3

U

V

NG SSI RO C S NE

KM < 30 D A RO

W

6

X

Blaxlands Inn K12 Bodega Restaurant & Bar M10 Circa 1876 L12 Eighty Eight L12

RESTAURANTS + CAFÉS

7

9 10

Epicure Café L11 Harrigans Irish Pub L9 Harvest Restaurant (Hope Estate) K12Matilda Bay Brewhouse F5 Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen O8 Oishii Japanese Thai L11 PK’s at Pokolbin L15 The Brickworks Brasserie (Potters Hotel) N16 Restaurant Cuvee (Peterson House) K14 RidgeView Restaurant B7 Sabor in the Hunter K13 The Cellar Restaurant K10 The Deck Café F18 The Verandah Restaurant I13 Zaih’s Café I17

8

D

Ivanhoe Wines P8 Lambloch Estate K13 Peterson House K14 Peter Drayton Wines D4 Pokolbin Estate M10 RidgeView Wines B7 Tamburlaine Organic Wines M10 The Garden Cellars K10 Wynwood Estate O11

5

d ar Ced C r e e k R

4

11

12

Ke nd all

Str ee t

13

14

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

SHOPS

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

GOURMET PRODUCE

adee n Rd

Adina Vineyard H17 Ascella Pure Wines I1 Blueberry Hill E10 Briar Ridge R12 Capercaillie Wines L16 Constable Estate J9 Dark Horse Vineyard G15 Emmas Cottage Vineyard G14 Hart & Hunter F10 Hermitage Road Cellars F5 Hope Estate K12 Hunter Distillery K6

PAY

16

17

TO SYDNEY M1 PACIFIC MOTORWAY

19

MARKETS

HV Wine School F5 iHop HV stop i

18

20

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

ACTIVITIES

Pokolbin Village K11 Wine Glass Gallery K10

15

TO QUORROBOLONG

A Chocolate and fudge lovers delight at HV Chocolate Co. K10, K13, K14

CESSNOCK

ABERDARE ROAD

TO ABERMAIN KURRI KURRI MAITLAND NEWCASTLE

W

CELLAR DOORS

1

Bimb

OM

D ER AL D AN

V

Narone Creek Rd

ht R

L OL

AD RO

Cessnock Regional Art Gallery

OAD MAITLAND R

St

U

GREAT NORTH ROAD TO SYDNEY VIA PEATS RIDGE

CDONALDS RD WOLLOMBI ROAD

M ou

nt B rig

MOUNTVIEW

BI

MOUNT VIEW ROAD

AL L

NULKABA

et tre tS en c n St Vin rwi Da

and

Briar Ridge

Mount View Rd

Marrowbone Road

Kerlew Street

l ber Cum

T

24.5K M>

Ivanhoe Wines

Wynwood Estate

OAKEY CREEK ROAD

S

WOLLOMBI

Bubbles galore at Peterson House K14

Delicious pizza at Harrigans Irish Pub L9

Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen

O’Connors Road

R

M

P

Q

<2 4.5 K

O P

W

O X

COMING UP

August

03+27

18-28

26-28

27+28

HANDMADE IN THE HUNTER MARKETS Kevin Sobels Wines

MORPETH’S WEIRD AND WONDERFUL TEA PARTY at Morpeth Gallery

NEWCASTLE FOOD & WINE EXPO at Newcastle Entertainment Centre

WOLLOMBI COUNTRY FAIR Wollombi

07 BROKE VILLAGE MARKET Wollombi Street, Broke

Morpeth's Weird and Wonderful Teapot and Tea Cosie Exhibition at Campbell's Store is a two week visual extravaganza featuring the amazing creativity of teapot makers from all over Australia and around the world… and the best part is it’s all free!

All teapots are for sale, along with tea infusers, tea towels, tea books and hundreds of tea cosies. The Novelty Tea Cosy Competition attracts around 250 entries each year and around 500 cosies are featured in the display.

Tastings of organic teas, honey, gingerbread, chocolate dessert puddings and sweet butters will round out a tea-rific day for one and all.

13+14

For more information, visit www.campbellsstoremorpeth.com

AROMA: COFFEE & CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL Riverside Carpark, Maitland

Aroma Coffee and Chocolate Festival is a celebration of winter comforts, featuring some of the Hunter’s finest baristas, roasters and chocolatiers. This fine food affair will include an interesting and diverse demonstration program, which will see local experts sharing their knowledge and expertise on the leading styles of coffee and chocolate and uses at home.

This year’s festival will host some 90 stalls, featuring quality coffee, chocolate, gourmet comfort food and produce, as well as an interactive kids area, street art, pop-up barber shop, outdoor library, laneway café and a unique music program.

Entry to the festival is free. For more information, please visit www.maitlandaroma.com.au

thb 34 | JULY 2016

Now in its 4th year, the Newcastle Food & Wine Expo is back to bring the foodies and wine connoisseurs of Newcastle Celebrity Chef cooking demonstrations, culinary presentations and over 100 exhibitors.

Enjoy FREE tastings and samples from some of Australia’s best gourmet food and exquisite wine producers and see kitchenware demos of the latest products for you to try at home.

For an additional cost you will also be able to enjoy an intimate dining experience with MasterChef favourite and Channel 10 host, Ben Milbourne! Ben will be preparing a succulent degustation menu with each course paired with a matching wine, giving you the perfect opportunity to get up close and personal to learn all Ben’s secrets in cooking and more.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.foodandwineexpo.com.au

27 RUGBY LEAGUE: THE MUSICAL at Cessnock Performing Arts Centre

27 ST PHILIPS SPRING FAIR at St Philip’s Christian College, Nulkaba

This year also sees the return of the popular Scarecrow competition, Small Farms Trade Show, Historical Re-enactments, Horse and Carriage Tours, Vintage Farm Machinery Display, Fire Brigade Parade and the Endeavour Museum Open Day. Pop Up Pampering will also be returning to this year’s event, as Hunter Valley GetAbout takes over the beautiful Secret Garden at the back of Noyce Brothers Wine.

For more information, visit www.wollombicountryfair.com.au cabaret musical with a spectacular blend of original songs and classic rock/pop parodies.

21 ST BRIGID'S MARKETS at Branxton

Now in its 8th year, the Wollombi Country Fair is the biggest event of the year for the historic village of Wollombi, combining all the best elements the little town has to offer. Fresh produce, wine and delicious local food, artists and craftspeople, performances and live music and of course the fabulous Lantern Parade and bonfire in the evening at The Wollombi Tavern.

The game of Rugby League is filled with melodrama, villains, controversies and larger than life characters. In Rugby League: The Musical, singer/satirist Denis Carnahan celebrates them all through a dynamic live interactive

After cracking runs at the Sydney Comedy Festival and Sydney Fringe Comedy, Denis is taking the 2016 version of the show on the road and bringing the show to Cessnock for the enjoyment of Hunter Valley residents and visitors.

“No topic or subject is off limits.

Denis is a very clever man and rugby league is the gift that keeps on giving!” - ABC Grandstand For more information and ticket sales, visit the Cessnock Performing Arts Centre website.

DARK

HV

D

HORSE

Our wines are small batch, hand picked, single vineyard and exclusively Hunter Valley.

CELLAR DOOR • HOMEWARES & GIFTS

OPEN Friday to Sunday, 10am - 5pm 386 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale, 2320 • PH 0450 206 398 www.darkhorsehv.com.au

HunterValleyShopping.com.au

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Phone 4998 7584.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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