THE Hunter Blackboard | July 2017

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

J U LY 2 0 1 7 | I S S U E # 1 2 5

BLACKBOARD

It’s Snow Time

IN THE GARDEN!

48 HOURS in Wine Country THE DIVINE DUO Wine & Oysters Coffee OBSESSED!

THE HUNTER BLACKBOARD IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH...

FOR YOUR DIARY

July

UNTIL 16TH JULY | SNOW TIME IN THE GARDENS | at Hunter Valley Gardens | Hunter Valley Gardens has transformed into a Winter Wonderland with the

popular annual event Snow Time in the Garden! This year’s event is bigger and better than ever, with great new features and best of all, open daily until July 16th - running right through the Winter school holidays. This day and night event has something for the whole family to enjoy including games, inflatables, an ice skating rink, tobogganing, the HVG Super Slide, entertainment, warm beverages, hearty food and so much more! With loads on offer, it’s time to brave the cold and make sure you don’t miss out on the winter fun! For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.hvg.com.au

TUESDAY 4TH JULY | DIRTY: HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY NIGHT | Nanna Kerr's Kitchen | DIRTY at Nanna Kerr's Kitchen is the monthly event for the Hunter's Hospitality industry employees and business owners.

For just $29 per person for food (nibbles, main and dessert) with $5 beers, half price cocktails and BYO wine, this is a great opportunity to relax and mingle with fellow hospitality devotee's. This event is held on the first Tuesday of every month.

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SPECIAL OFFERS AVAILABLE

From 1st July 2017 until the 31st July 2017 inclusive or while stocks last.

For more information or to book tickets, message 0427 679 887.

THURSDAY 6TH - SUNDAY 9TH JULY | TWO LIVING MASTERS ART EXHIBITION | Morpeth Art Gallery | Two Living Masters, metal point artist

Gordon Hanley and landscape artist John McCartin, will come together for a joint exhibition at Morpeth Art Gallery. Gordon Hanley is widely recognised as one of the very best painters of watercolour, his patience, attention to detail and precision raising the art to new heights. John McCartin is acknowledged as a master by many of the world's leading artists and galleries, his work a product of keen observation, drawing skill and response to a range of different subjects setting him apart from the rest. The gallery is open 10am - 5pm, Thursday to Sunday. www.morpethgallery.com

SUNDAY 16TH JULY | WINERY RUNNING FESTIVAL | The Vintage Golf Resort & Spa | This year, the Winery Running Festival will be staged from a new

location - The Vintage Golf Resort and Spa, Rothbury! You can enter into a range of events, including the Winery Marathon (42.2km), Half Marathon (21.1km), Winery 10km, Winery Wander 6km or the 2km Kids Marathon. Competitors can run or walk any event - some even stop to take a couple of 'special' drink stops, so why not give it a go! Immerse yourself in the surrounding vineyard views, run past famous resorts and wineries in one of Australia's best holiday locations! Visit www.wineryrun.com to enter online before July 13th.

SATURDAY 22ND - TUESDAY 25TH JULY | THE COAL AND ALLIED SINGLETON ART PRIZE| Singleton Civic Centre |From humble beginnings

GET MOBILE!

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

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35 years ago, The Singleton Art Prize has matured into one of the largest and most prestigious regional art prizes in NSW. Run by the local Rotary Club, the aim is to positively contribute to the Singleton community, facilitate a growing appreciation of art, encourage developing artists, and raise funds for deserving organisations and projects. On average, around 800 visitors pass through the Singleton Civic Centre each year over five days to enjoy up to 650 paintings. This year’s prize pool is over $22,000.

The exhibition is open from 10am to 6pm and costs $2 per person. Visit www.singletononhunterrotary.org.au/singleton-art-prize

SUNDAY 30TH JULY | PEEK INTO THE PAST (OPEN DAY) | Tocal Homestead | Have a peek into the sights, sounds and even smells of yesteryear

at Tocal Homestead's Peek into the Past open day! An old Fashioned day out with working horses, heritage tractors and machinery, blacksmiths working at the forge, the local straw broom maker at work mixed with the aromas of freshly baked scones and apple pie from the old wood stove and damper from the camp fire. Watch a heritage clothing parade, machinery demonstrations or listen to history talks. There will be plenty of kids entertainment and delicious homemade refreshments! Join in the fun from 10am - 3pm, adults $10, concession $8, school kids free. www.tocal.com

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

FROM THE EDITORS The Hunter Valley is the sixth most visited place in Australia attracting more than 2.5 million people each year* and while it would be awesome to enjoy an extended holiday in Wine Country, for most visitors, it’s a jam-packed twonight stay. As with all short-stays, it pays to be informed so that you don’t waste the first hour (or more) planning.

Enter – this month’s Hunter Blackboard!

With all the tips for making the most out of your 48 hours in Wine Country, not a second will be wasted!

From activities to meals, tastings and shopping, you’ll find all you need on page 10.

With the first two weeks of this month incorporating the July School Holidays, your first port of call will definitely need to be Hunter Valley Gardens for the annual Snow Time in the Garden. This year’s event promises to be the best yet with everything from ice-skating to tobogganing, rides and inflatables.

Aboriginal people are the oldest known civilisation on earth and have inhabited Australia for tens of thousands of years. The Hunter region has a rich aboriginal history and is also home to the historically significant Baiame Cave.

Find out more about this significant site in this issue.

Who doesn’t love a good Oyster in summer? Or is winter the peak season for all of us 'shuckers', you’ll find the answer to this question along with the best wines to match with these tasty molluscs within our pages this month.

While it's not unusual to have views of a fairway from your front door, with golf course estates popping up all over the place, there’s only one place in Australia where you can live within a communityowned vineyard estate, and that’s Kelman in the Hunter Valley. It’s a place where you can be totally involved with helping to produce the award-winning wines – or simply sit back and enjoy the view. We look at this unique model this month.

The Hunter Valley is full of diamonds in the rough – but for the sparkly kind, we are now privileged to have The Exclusive Diamond Company in our midst. The beautiful store at HVG Shopping Village is a special treat for locals and visitors and the crowning jewel in owner, Brenda-PhillipsDonohoe diverse career. Read more on page 18. Enjoy! *Source-Activity Tours Australia

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Contents 48 HOURS IN WINE COUNTRY

10

FLAVOURS OF THE HUNTER

14

Only have a weekend to see the best of the Hunter Valley? Check out our suggestions for restaurants, wineries and activities to make the most of your Winter escape!

With over 45 great restaurants and cafes and some of Australia’s most respected chefs leading the way, the Hunter Valley is a food lover’s paradise.

HOW WINES HAVE CHANGED THE WORLD

16

COFFEE OBSESSED

22

WINE & OYSTERS

25

HUNTER BLACKBOARD MAP

32

When you take a sip of wine, you are drinking one of civilisations earliest beverages that has been the catalyst for numerous historical events and trends.

Australia is a country of coffee lovers, who are not afraid to declare that our coffee is in fact, better than others. Find out where to get a great coffee in Wine Country.

EXCLUSIVE DIAMOND CO. Unique Elegant Designs

Diamonds | Tanzanite | Pearls Semi Precious | Bespoke Design Engagement | Wedding | Hire

Brenda Phillips-Donohoe

Shop 2a Hunter Valley Gardens Village 2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin, NSW 2320 E support@exclusivediamondco.com.au P (02) 4998 7173

While oysters can be enjoyed on their own, there is something about oysters paired with wine that’s just too difficult to ignore – the combination is simply divine!

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

www.exclusivediamondco.com.au

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HOT IN THE HUNTER

RS EDPITI OC K J U LY

Get the TASTEBUDS Ready!

Thought you had tasted the best the Hunter Region had to offer? Think again, as Hunters Quarter restaurant have just launched their new winter menu!

Inspired by the international culinary experiences of chef Brian Duncan, the new innovative menu features the best of the Hunter region’s seasonal produce. If you have a sweet tooth (just like the Hunter Blackboard team!), you won’t be able to go past the delectable Caramel Souffle with Salted Pretzel Ice Cream (pictured).

WHERE Hunter’s Quarter at Cockfighters Ghost Vineyard, 576 De Beyers Road, Pokolbin.

PH 4998 7776. OPEN Lunch – 12pm-3.30pm, Thursday to Sunday, Dinner – 6pm until late, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Monday.

Picture Perfect!

Located in the heart of Pokolbin, Constable Estate is one of the most pristine and picturesque spots in the Hunter Valley. They are renowned for producing exceptional wines, as well as their boutique charm and beautifully manicured gardens.

Open to the public 7 days a week from 10am to 4pm, the awe-inspiring gardens feature many unique sculptures, various walks and the Len Evans Memorial Lookout. The lookout provides spectacular 360 degree views over Pokolbin and the Hunter Valley and commemorates Len’s immense contribution to the Hunter’s wine industry.

SAVE THE DATE Opera in the Vineyards 2017 The 2017 Opera in the Vineyards is back for their 20th year, as well as a brand new venue!

Indulge your senses with an evening of food, wine and opera at the award winning Chateau Elan on Saturday, October 14th, 2017.

WIth a range of pre-concert activities to enjoy, this is not just a concert, but an experience!

Arrive early and wander around the lawn for cheese tastings, culinary delights, a glass of bubbles and of course wonderful valley views.

International stars Cheryl Barker, Teddy Tahu Rhodes, flautist Jane Rutter and Maestro Guy Noble will lead you on a journey through some of the most beautiful arias and duets ever written.

BOOK NOW and don't miss out - numbers are strictly limited. Be sure to enquire about accommodation and dinner packages to make this a truly memorable experience! www.operainthevineyards.com.au

WHERE Constable Estate, 205 Gillards Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7887. www.constableestate.com.au

Can you Handle the Heat?

The Chilli Factory are setting the world on fire with their award-winning chilli sauces, pastes, relishes, chutneys and seeds. Perfect to warm you up this winter!

All products have a heat rating so you can pick the product best for you and your chilli tolerance. The level of heat ranges from the Mild Mango Chilli Relish (1/10 rating) or the Mild Sweet Chilli Sauce (2/10 rating) for those who break into sweats just thinking about chilli, through to the Extremely Hot Carolina Reaper Chilli Paste (15+/10 rating) or the Stupidly Hot BBQ Sauce (15/10 rating), for those that want to prove that they can handle the heat!

Made from 100% Australian chillies at their Morisset factory, all The Chilli Factory’s products contain no artificial colours or flavours, preservatives or added MSG. WHERE Garden Cellars, Pokolbin Estate, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company, and Hunter Distillery. For more information, visit www.thechillifactory.com

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Diff-RENT CYCLES at Ye Olde General Store

Looking for a different way to get around the valley?

Have a go on one of Diff-Rent Cyles' Electric Fat Bikes, which offer the benefit of really wide tyres, stability for all riders and of course more electric pedal power.

Available from Ye Olde General Store in Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, this is the perfect central location to hire your bike from. Visitors can also opt to take a freshly prepared picnic pack! Open from 9am 5pm, 7 days. Phone 4998 7191.

E NE XCI W TIN RI G DE S

WINTER HOLIDAY FUN

MORE SNOW TIME FUN!

Than Ever Before!

Late last month, Hunter Valley Gardens was transformed into a Winter Wonderland as the popular ‘Snow Time in the Garden’ returned for 2017. Hunter Valley Gardens promised the event would be the biggest and best one yet, and they didn’t disappoint with the event including more rides, entertainment and snow than ever before!

‘Snow Time in the Garden’ runs until Sunday 16th July, so children and adults alike can enjoy all things winter without having to travel to the snow! This year’s activities include: ICE SKATING RINK – Kick off your Snow Time fun with a spin around the much‐loved Ice Skating Rink. Skating sessions will run for 20 minutes and can fit up to 200 skaters at any time. With sessions starting at 10am every day, collect your session ticket, grab your skates and helmet and get skating!

FAIR RIDES – A 25m Ferris Wheel, 12m‐long Swing Chairs and traditional‐ style Carousel are all brand-new additions to Hunter Valley Gardens, providing a spectacular carnival vibe and giving the little ones and kids at heart a thrill!

SNOW TIME PLAY ZONE – The ever‐popular snow play area is back, giving kids the chance to experience and touch snow for the first time.

With two equally large play areas, there’s plenty of room for Snowmen, Snow Angels, or anything else that takes your fancy.

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

SUPER SLIDE – After its popular induction into last year’s Snow Time attractions, the HVG Super Slide is here to stay! Standing at a huge 12 metres high and 35 metres long, it’s time to grab a giant slide mat and zip down the rainbow at full speed.

NOW ON ICE SKATING, SNOW PLAY, TOBOGGANING AND MORE! NOW ON UNTIL 16 JULY 2017

The family fun doesn’t stop here. Other activities throughout the event include Face Painting, Inflatables, Snow Ball Challenge and Arcade Alley.

The incredible live Ice Sculpting by Kenji Ogawa will also be wowing crowds on weekends. A range of delicious food options and warm beverages will be on offer, and The Garden Terrace Café will be open 9am – 5pm daily.

All activities excluding Swing Chair and Ferris Wheel are FREE once admission is paid. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit www.hvg.com.au

02 4998 4000 - Broke Rd Pokolbin - hvg.com.au This event will not open in adverse weather conditions. Admission charges apply. Program subject to change.

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Hunter Valley

Trail Rides for Beginners and Experienced Riders

On Your Marks,

GET SET!

Pony Rides • Picnics • BBQ’s • Breakfast Rides • Family Rides Personalised Rides • Hiking & Mountain Bike Trails Sunset Rides • Kangaroos • Spectacular Valley Views Childrens Sulky Rides • Tractor Hay Rides to Feed the Animals!

Kangaroo and Native Wildlife Spotting at Night Time. Leaves at Sunset Followed by Camp Fire

Talk to us about our Weddings on Horseback!

FINALIST

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

of the Hunter Region Business Excellence Awards 2016

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

After 12 years of being held at Hunter Valley Gardens, The Winery Run will this year move to The Vintage Golf Resort and Spa on Sunday 16th July 2017. Event Director, Paul Humphreys, of H Events, is excited about the new venue as “The Vintage is a world class venue with excellent hospitality facilities, accommodation, incredible views and an intertwining network of golf cart tracks that will allow for excellent racing over the combinations of distances we offer.”

Since starting in 2006, the Winery Run has expanded to become one of the biggest regional running events in Australia. Each year the event gains entries from China, Hong King, Canada, USA, New Zealand and France, with this year’s event expected to attract close to 2500 participants and over 4000 spectators. “With a great new host venue and the start and finish lines just 50m apart, it makes spectating easy,” says Humphreys.

With five running and walking events on offer, the event caters for both novice and serious participants. Races on offer include the Winery Marathon (42.2km), Winery Half Marathon (21.1km), Vineyard Run (10km), Winery Wander (6km) and Kids Marathon (2km).

With golf course tracks offering almost 10km of course internally and a partnership with adjoining Bimbadgen Winery, the event offers excellent 10km, 6km and 2km courses. The half marathon and marathon courses will include road running around the Hermitage Road area in addition to the golf course tracks, to gain the distance needed. “It really is a beautiful vista around Pokolbin/Rothbury. With so many great wineries and accommodation venues. The runners will love it,” says Humphreys.

The traditional Winery Run pasta dinner will be held on Saturday 15th July 2017 at the Founders Room at The Vintage Golf Resort and Spa. Join like-minded people for an early pasta meal and hear from special guest speaker, Rio Olympic Marathon runner Scott Westcott. As the oldest ever marathon runner selected to represent Australia at the Olympics, Scott has great knowledge of what it takes to perform well, no matter the circumstances. Bookings for the dinner are essential as there are only 100 seats available. For more information, visit www.wineryrun.com

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‘5 Red Stars For Excellence’

James Halliday’s Wine Companion

358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin tamburlaine.com.au

EXPERIENCE YESTERYEAR

at Tocal

On Sunday 30th July, ‘Peek into the Past’ will see Tocal Homestead come alive with the sights, sounds and smells of yesteryear. It will be a wonderful old-fashioned day out for the family. Grandparents will reminisce, parents will enjoy the nostalgia, and the kids will learn plenty about living in colonial times.

Considered a national treasure, Tocal is a heritage listed 2200-hectare property. Rich in history, it has one of Australia’s finest collections of colonial farm buildings dating from the 1830’s, including the Homestead, the Blacket Barn, Thunderbolt’s Cottage and a range of original outbuildings and yards.

The program for the event is bursting with talks, demonstrations and activities to give visitors a true peek into Tocal’s past. There will be guided history talks every hour as well as bush poetry readings and the stories of the bushrangers.

Make sure you check out the blacksmiths working at the forge or watch the local straw broom maker at work. Keep an eye out for the 'redcoats' of the soldiers of the 73rd Regiment of Foot as they hold cavalry drills, fire the cannon and hold firearms demonstrations. They will be marching through the site throughout the day and will be happy to chat about what they do.

There will also be a heritage clothing parade, machinery demonstrations, farm animals, sheep shearing, whip cracking, cart rides

with Harry the Clydesdale and tractors at work. On top of all that, there will be loads of delicious homemade refreshments, or you can bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawn.

Open from 10am to 3pm, ‘Peek into the Past’ will have your senses besieged throughout the day as the sounds of working horses, heritage tractors and machinery mingle with the aromas of traditional scones and apple pies baking in the old wood stove. Tickets are $30 for adults, $8 for concession holders and school children are free. For more information, visit www.tocal.com

IVANHOE WINES…A Wine for Every Knight.

525 Marrowbone Rd Pokolbin | Ph 4998 7325 | Open 7 Days 10am—5pm | www.ivanhoewines.com.au

Premium Boutique Wines

2015

CERTIFICATE of EXCELLENCE

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Pictured: Cash Savage.

Photo by Lisa Sorgini

SAVE THE DATE!

Mark the September 29th to October 1st in your diaries, as Dashville Skyline returns! This year’s event will see the best Americana, psychedelia and alternative country music artists gather together in Belford, Hunter Valley, for a celebration of the golden era of ‘Americana’ music while kicking back and having a bit of fun over a lazy long weekend.

The first round of artists has just been announced and it includes Cash Savage & The Last Drinks, Immigrant Union, Mark Olson & Ingunn Ringvold (US), William Crighton, Mel Parsons (NZ), Tim Easton (US), Pony Face, Lachlan Bryan & The Wildes, Songs from Dan (NL), The Roamin’ Jasmine, Claire Anne Taylor, Emma Russack and Roadhouses.

Relax and rejuvenate with our new spa treatments u�lising cer�fied organic products from Divine Woman.

Our 80 minute Divine Signature Treatment includes a calming back massage as well as a facial tailored to your skins needs.

All treatments include complimentary use of the Day Spa facili�es including steam room, spa bath and relaxa�on lounge.

TO BOOK CALL 02 4993 8500 EMAIL SPA@ELYSIA.COM.AU VIEW SPA MENU GOLDENDOOR.COM.AU 165 THOMPSONS ROAD, POKOLBIN

This three-day camping music festival is more than just music though.

Festivalgoers can also expect the best American cuisine, cars and culture alongside the relaxed family atmosphere and onsite bush camping that Dashville has become popular for.

THEGOLDENDOOR

@GOLDENDOORAUSTRALIA

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

Morpeth Antique Centre

Introducing the Hunter Valley's

Discover 21 dealers

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

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

The Lad y in

Pin k

...

POKOL B IN E STAT E VIN EYARD

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

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

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

10 THINGS TO DO ON

HERMITAGE RD

1: Hermitage Road Cellars 8 Great Producers Gordon Hanley’s ‘Goldpointe’

Masters Visit

MORPETH This month, Morpeth Gallery will host “The Two Living Masters” exhibition featuring the works of Gordon Hanley, Australia’s only ‘Living Master of Art’ and John McCartin, Australia’s only ‘Grand Master Artist (World)’. All 53 paintings on exhibition will be for sale, with prices ranging from $2,250 to $45,000.

With a background in science before pursuing his love of art, Hanley used his skills to reinvent metal point art - a technique originally used

by Leonardo da Vinci and other Renaissance artists, such as Raphael and Michelangelo, but which had been lost since the mid 1500’s.

Working on specially prepared paper and using a stylus with a pure gold or silver ingot, Hanley creates incredibly detailed pieces which feature a mesmerising use of shade and light. In fact, such is the accuracy and detail in his drawings, they are often mistaken for photographs.

In 2014, the highly-respected Art Renewal Centre of the United States, the largest art centre in the world, named him a Living Master shortly after being sent some examples of his drawings. This very rare accolade goes to an artist “who has the rare talent, experience and expertise to create great humanistic works of art that are seemingly executed with effortless perfection”.

Gordon Hanley says "The art I create is simply about beauty, and beauty can be found all around us. It isn’t complicated, but neither is it superficial or shallow. What I am seeking to achieve in this art work, is essentially what I try to achieve in all of my pieces - and that is, to engage the viewer with the subject, so that it speaks to them on a deeply emotional level. We have all experienced that piece – the one that stops you as you walk through a gallery, or as you flip through the pages of a magazine."

“The Two Living Masters” exhibition is on from Thursday 6th to Sunday 9th July at Morpeth Gallery, 5 Green Street, Morpeth. Entry is free.

For more information, visit www.morpethgallery.com

+ Lisa McGuigan + Margan + Hook + Stormy Ridge + Majo Majors Lane + King Horse + Thomas + Hele

2: Segway Nature Tours 3: Matilda Bay Brewhouse 4: Hunter Wine Theatre 5: Horse Riding Tours Grape 6: G Stomping and Candymaking 7: Binnorie Cheese Tasting Dairy 8: Beer Tasting Paddles 9: Electric Bike Hire 10: Heavenly Hunter Massage Centre

Gordon Hanley’s ‘Evening Elegance’

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EXPLORE

The Lakes Walk at Hunter Valley Gardens

48 HOURS

In Wine Country!

WORDS Quentin von Essen If life was a “blank canvas” – then surely we owe it to ourselves to throw as much paint on it as we can, don’t we? The same can be said about making the most of a short break spent in the Hunter Valley, but with so many things to do and so many different options to choose from, how do you decide the best use of your time? Here are some suggestions to make the most of your Winter weekend getaway.

DAY ONE Take an early morning stroll through the gardens, check out some artwork, enjoy a cheese or tapas lunch, visit a distillery and savour awesome Hunter wines.

Morning Warm Up Start your weekend morning off in the rural locality of Pokolbin which oozes Wine Country chic and laid-back luxury any time of year. Since comfort food and winter go together like strawberries and cream, get your fill with breakfast at the family friendly And the Winner Is Oscars café at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, serving honest, wholesome food and awesome coffee. Also nearby is Taste of the Country serving all day breakfasts and is a little like walking into an old fashioned country kitchen.

Cool Beauty After breakfast, head to the spectacular Hunter Valley Gardens to experience a wonderful display of sight, colour and fragrance from the ten feature gardens. Discover the Formal Garden – the largest of its type in Australia or the magnificent Rose Garden with its lavish array of colour and perfume. Or pay a visit to the Oriental Garden surrounded by natural Australian granite and winding streams full of spectacular water lilies

thb 10 | JULY 2017

and irises and the Italian Grotto Garden with its statue of Saint Francis of Assis - the patron saint of animals and the environment.

Sip, Savour, Blend Stomachs lined and taste buds awakened, it’s time for a real taste of Wine Country. If you feel like sticking around the Pokolbin area after lunch, pop into Constable Estate on Gillards Road, which has earned a reputation as one of the most beautiful and successful vineyards in Australia. Tintilla Estate located on Hermitage Road has that wholesome family warmth that keeps people returning and is for everyone with a love of food, wine and family. One of the smallest boutique estates in the Hunter Valley, Pokolbin Estate Vineyard on McDonalds Road has a reputation for producing outstanding wines, particularly with their Riesling, Semillon and Shiraz. They have also had a great deal of success with their three Mediterranean-style red wines – the premium Spanish variety Tempranillo and the Italian varieties that include Nebbiolo and Sangiovese.

Just a little further down the road and you will be warmly welcomed by the team at Tamburlaine Organic Wines - Australia’s largest certified organic wine producer where you can choose from a large range of red and white wines, sparkling and fortified from their Hunter Valley and Orange Vineyards. Also on McDonalds Road, is Ivanhoe Wines – home to a complete range of premium Hunter Valley wines and big, gutsy reds.

It’s also one of the most picturesque and most photographed properties in the Hunter Valley.

With its historic past, extensive range of wine varieties, large informal cellar door, friendly and knowledgeable staff, a wine museum and outstanding views Wynwood Estate provides one of the most rewarding wine experiences in the Hunter Valley. Not only has the property played a significant role in the history of Pokolbin and the Hunter Valley, but

Soar to New Heights For an iconic wine country splurge, skip breakfast and book an earlymorning hot air balloon ride with Balloon Aloft. Taking off at sunrise, ascend into the sky and float gently along the breeze, taking in views of the picturesque wine regions of Pokolbin, Lovedale, Rothbury or Broke – from just above the treetops or at heights of 2000 feet or more. The onehour balloon flight is followed by a delicious gourmet breakfast.

Saddle Up If having your feet firmly on terra-firma is more your thing, why not venture out on an early morning adventure perched atop a trusty steed, while enjoying the natural bushland and stunning views of the countryside.

At Hunter Valley Horse Riding and Adventures in Lovedale, you can ride the unique and beautiful Molly Morgan Range while experiencing the spectacular scenery from as far north as the Barrington Tops.

Whether you’re an old hand on horseback or not, there’s a ride for every experience level, with the 1 and 1.5 hour guided trail rides being the most popular for both beginners and experts alike.

Go Shopping Try a test tube from Hunter Distillery

is has developed a reputation for producing some of the regions finest wines.

Take a turn to the tranquil side of the Hunter Valley with an easy 15-minute drive to the Broke Fordwich Wine Region where the warm climate and fertile soils produce distinctive wines such as Semillon, Shiraz, Chardonnay and Verdelho as well as Italian varieties such as Sangiovese and Barbera. First settled as early as 1824, the region has become an important player in the Australian wine making industry and home to just eight cellar doors including Ascella Organic Wines – the largest family owned organic vineyard in the Hunter Valley and also Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard.

Of course, no trip to the Hunter Valley would be complete with a visit to the Hunter Distillery. One of the Hunter Valley's most unique and fascinating experiences, Hunter Distillery is the first 100% organic distillery in Australia and the only organic distillery in the southern hemisphere. Try their unique range of premium Organic Vodkas, Schnapps, Gin and Liqueurs tasted from traditional test tubes and even take a guided tour of the distillery production area.

If shopping is more your thing, then the ultimate Wine Country shopping experience is a trip to Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village located en-route to the gates of the world-famous gardens themselves.

Here you will find a variety of galleries, fashion stores, home-ware, gift shops and other boutique speciality shops to choose from and just when you feel you need a break, there is a choice of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a much-needed coffee, tea or snack.

Indulge a Little After an arduous day of adventure, Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar is a sweet diversion for those who love to indulge in decadent cakes and pastries or have a soft spot for the rich flavours of the cocoa bean.

Sabor has over 50 desserts on the menu, as well as local wines, dessert wines, ports and liqueurs to perfectly match the flavours of your dessert.

Also offering great coffee - this is a haven for those people wanting to experience a completely new level of culinary delight in desserts.

(Continued next page) ►

Winding Down and Dinner It’s no coincidence that some of the finest restaurants in the world can be found in the best wine growing regions. Where there is great wine, great food usually follows, and the Hunter Valley is considered one of the finest most authentic culinary destinations in Australia. Read our story "Flavours of the Hunter" on page 14 for some great dinner suggestions.

DAY TWO Soar above the vineyards, indulge in a dessert, go horse-riding, shop a bit (or a lot), take a tour, visit a brewery and warm up by the fireplace.

Rise and Dine We take breakfast very seriously in Wine Country, so make today’s count by spending the morning at one of our local favourites. Pokolbin’s Restaurant Cuvee is not only home to premium sparkling wines but is also renowned for serving up unforgettable breakfasts that include the restaurant specialty the ‘Bubbly Breakfast.’ But there’s more! For those trying to avoid the traditional bacon and eggs with the works, try the delicious Corn Fritters drizzled with Peterson House balsamic and topped with avocado salsa and crème fraiche with your choice of salmon or bacon. For those looking for a tasty, wholesome breakfast in a family friendly and casual environment then Buon Cibo is just the place. The menu choices are all extremely tempting with options that include toasted croissants with sliced leg ham and Swiss cheese, buttermilk pancakes with maple syrup and fresh berries. For those who feel they need a little more, there is the Breakfast Bruschetta consisting of sourdough with ricotta cheese, prosciutto, fresh tomato, avocado, basil, lemon oil, and poached eggs.

Balloon Aloft

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Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures (Continued)

Universally adored, chocolate is one of life's perfect indulgences and in the Hunter Valley, the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company is the sweetest and most addictive attraction around. It's so popular that they have three retail outlets in Pokolbin – at Peterson House, Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village and at 2320 Broke Road. If you love all things chocolate, you'll love their exquisite range of chocolate, so take the time to visit their three retail outlets in Pokolbin and see for yourself what everyone is talking about.

Get Crafty Join the craft beer revolution and head off to the Hunter Beer Company to experience the unique range of handcrafted beers brewed from 100% natural ingredients and no preservatives. Choose from a long list of beers created onsite at their premises in Nulkaba - from the bold American style Pale Ale, the dark German-style Bock, the ever-popular style full strength Lager - through to the refreshing Kolsch, the pale yet light flavoured Belgian Witbier and the deliciously crisp Ginger Beer. Visit the spacious “beer bar” to taste the wide selection of beers on tap or take part in one of the daily brewery tours and see firsthand how the micro-brewery functions.

Getting Back to the Wine With a vast selection of boutique accommodation to choose from and an extensive wine and food trail, Lovedale offers the perfect weekend away and the ideal opportunity to experience some of the best wine and food the Hunter has to offer.

Visit Capercaillie Wines on Lovedale Road, and taste from their extensive range of individual Hunter Valley wines, as well as those from other proven regions of Australia. Just further up the road is Adina Vineyard with their generous selection of red and white wines, as well as wines from some of the oldest Pinot Gris and Sangiovese vines in Australia. They also have a delicious and diverse range of olives, olive oils, tapenade, caramelised balsamic vinegar, dressings and relishes. Staying on Lovedale Road, Gartelmann Wines specialises in the classic Hunter Valley varieties of Semillon and Shiraz. They also produce lovely Verdelho, complex Chardonnay, soft Merlot and elegant Cabernet, as well as Liqueur Muscat. Take a turn down Wilderness Road and visit the family owned and operated Sandalyn Estate and taste from their range of white, red and sparkling wines. If you love sparkling wine make sure you try their Sparkling Cuvee, which also makes a great gift for that special someone. Just further down the road you will find Emma’s Cottage Vineyard, where you will discover their lovely estate grown wines, which can be enjoyed while browsing through the wonderfully eclectic collection of art in the adjacent art gallery. Another wonderful surprise in the Lovedale region is Lucy’s Run – a micro vineyard offering

Chocolate frogs at Hunter Valley Chocolate Company

a select range of multi-award-winning Verdelho, Merlot and Shiraz along with their hand-made spice blends and extra virgin olive oil. Want a tip?

Buy their multi-award winning 2014 Shiraz.

Take a Tour There are numerous ways to work your way around the wineries by yourself or with a group of friends, but if you want to sit back, relax and let someone else do the organising and driving, then book yourself on one of the many wine tours heading around the Hunter Valley. Choose from a full day, half day or private wine tour from operators such as the popular Cheers Bus, which makes its way around a selection of boutique cellar doors as well as other must-sample Hunter venues including local breweries, distillery, cheese and chocolate factories. Alternatively, customise your own tour experience by jumping on the iHop Bus and choose from a timetable of 14 stops and over 40 venues to visit.

The Hunter is certainly not short of an adventure or two – it just comes down to choosing what you want to and when and then off you go! ■

Located in the idyllic Lovedale area on Lovedale Road, Gartelmann Wines produces wines from NSW’s premium wine regions. The welcoming cellar door extends to the adjoining Deck Café overlooking the picturesque bush setting.

Enjoy 18 wines including Hunter Valley Semillon and Shiraz or Mudgee Shiraz through to the trophy-winning Orange region Merlot and our new Pinot Gris.

The luscious Liqueur Muscat is a must to try.

Open 7 Days • 701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale • Ph 4930 7113 • E sales@gartelmann.com.au • www.gartelmann.com.au

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The Hunter Valley is widely recognised as one of Australia’s premier wine regions, however, this has meant that our thriving restaurant scene is sometimes overlooked.

With over 45 great restaurants and cafes, four of which are hatted, and some of Australia’s most respected chefs leading the way, the Hunter Valley is a food lover’s paradise! Here is just a taste of what the Hunter Valley food scene has to offer…

The brainchild of Jimmy and Matty Kerr, Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen is a welcoming and familyfriendly environment with superb vineyard views and of course great food. The Pokolbinbased café and restaurant offers relaxed fine dining and is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner. With a menu often described as “country elegance with a twist”, there is a real focus on fresh locally sourced and organic produce. Aside from their regular dining service, Nanna Kerr’s also hosts a Winemakers Dinner on the first Saturday of every month.

The Deck Cafe. Photo by Brent Leggett

Flavours of the Hunter

Located on one of the most beautiful properties in the Hunter Valley, and tapping into European flavours is RidgeView Restaurant, with its renowned Cypriot Mezze menu – a sumptuous banquet involving numerous courses and designed to be enjoyed over several hours, while taking in the wonderful views and savouring a glass of RidgeView wine.

Similarly, the tempting flavours of the sun-drenched Mediterranean regions have also infused the rustic cuisine on offer at 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.

UR MULLED WIN O Y E TODAY! TR

Winter

A WELCOME HUG ON A CHILLY DAY

Whether it's a luscious Hunter estate Shiraz, a delicious Sangiovese or a wonderful Cabernet for the Winter months, you will find the line-up of Adina white and 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.

VINEYARD

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

thb 14 | JULY 2017

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

Located in the Hunter Valley Gardens Village on Broke Road, this is by far one of the most central and most convenient spots in the Hunter to go for a meal.

There's a great Hunter focused wine list too! Open for lunch and dinner, Monday to Saturday.

An authentic Asian restaurant that has long attracted a regular crowd and another favourite amongst locals is Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant. Located at Roche Estate, diners can choose to dine inside or outside on the covered terrace overlooking the vines and architecturally designed amphitheatre. A wonderfully unique dining alternative.

Hunters Quarter (HQ) is a relaxed and elegant dining destination located in the Cockfighters Ghost Vineyard in Pokolbin. Serving up modern Australian cuisine, it has something for everyone – whatever the occasion.

With a private terrace in the vineyards, it’s the perfect place to while away a few hours with family, friends and fantastic food.

A local favourite, The Deck Cafe at Gartelmann Wines is a stylish restaurant-style cafe, open for breakfast and lunch every day with diners given the option to sit inside the cafe or outside on the spacious deck overlooking the picturesque dam, while they enjoy their meal. Breakfast includes an extensive menu full of delicious options such as Eggs Benedict three different ways and house pancakes with a choice of four of your favourite toppings. Lunch follows until 3.30 pm and includes a wide choice of dishes that include steak sandwiches and beer-battered fish and chips with house-made tartare sauce.

We are without a doubt spoilt for choice when it comes restaurants in the Hunter Valley, but when it comes to sensational views mixed with indoor comfort, The Verandah Restaurant at Calais Estate is up there with the best. With all weather dining on the verandah or inside by the fireplace on those cold winter nights, The Verandah Restaurant provides a dining experience that involves a modern tapas-style

Hunters Quarter

menu showcasing the best local produce ensuring your time will be one to remember.

Of course, the choice of great dining venues in the Hunter does not start and end here. With dozens of great restaurants and cafes to choose from, no matter where you are in the Hunter Valley, there is always somewhere to escape the chill as you indulge in the local fare.

SANDALYN ESTATE Wander the wild side and enjoy the rich heritage and pristine beauty of the Lovedale region along Wilderness Road, one of Australia's oldest and most historic wine trails.

Fuchs family named wines have been associated with premium wines since 1626. The tradition continues in the Hunter region with our range of family-produced Sparkling wines.

Premium Wines • Fuchs Sparkling Wines • Olive Oils & Balsamic Vinegar Tastings Pasta Making Classes • Sandalyn Aged Vinegars • Puddings • Café Speciality Gourmet Produce • Hand-Crafted Turkish Delight

www.sandalyn.com.au

162 Wilderness Road Lovedale NSW • PH 4930 7611 • wine@Sandalyn.com.au 15 | JULY 2017 thb

WINE

How Wine Changed

THE WORLD There are certain beverages that have had a significant impact on the world as we know it – coffee, tea, spirits and of course beer. But have you ever considered the impact wine - one of civilisations earliest beverages, has had on the world?

When you take a sip of wine, you are taking a sip of history. There’s history in wine, and wine in history, as wine has been the facilitator of numerous historical events and trends.

We may forever argue over who first invented wine or who makes it best, but one thing is certain, the world would not be the way it is today without wine. When it comes to wine, the French, Italians, Portuguese, Russians, Egyptians, Turks and Greeks have all had their history altered due to wine at some point in time.

Here are just a few examples of how wine has changed the world as we know it…

The world in a Glass: Wine led to glass; glass led to… everything The wonderful colour of wine, its taste and aroma became such an obsession that the Romans¬ started to look for better ways to preserve it.

From 4000 B.C., humans had been making use of glass – mainly in the form of glazes used for coating stone beads, and it was not until 1500 B.C. that the first hollow glass container was made. The Romans expanded the use of glass when they started using glass blowing as the most common way to make glass containers from the First Century B.C. The secret of glassmaking travelled to Britain with the Romans.

However, the skills and technology required to make glass were still

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Vintage vessels

closely guarded by the Romans, and it was not until the Roman Empire disintegrated that the skills for glassmaking spread throughout Europe and the Middle East.

From that early beginning, the creation of glass led to lens grinding and spectacles which assisted people with seeing and reading. The glass lenses used in microscopes led to the discovery of micro-organisms and medical advancement. The glass used in telescopes allowed us to learn more about our galaxy and the Earth’s place within it. Of course today, glass forms part of computer screens, televisions, mobile phones, light bulbs, windows, windscreens, clocks and watches.

Wine determined how civilised you were Wine snobbery may be nearly as old as wine itself, with the Greeks and Romans producing many grades of wine for the various social classes.

Around 100 B.C. European cultures started to become increasingly fond of their favourite drink - wine, as they perfected its creation and associated it with wealth and prosperity.

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.

Vintage wine carafe

The ancient Greeks and Romans believed that creating wine was a fine art, so much so that they had a god “Dionysus” of fertility and wine, later considered a patron of the arts. He created wine and spread the art of viticulture. So, if you could create wine, you were considered civilised rather than backwards and barbaric. As a result, wine was the catalyst to the forming of many alliances with other similarly "civilised" societies.

Wine encouraged cross-continental trading By around 900 B.C., the Romans had winemaking down to a fine art growing grapes and making different varieties of wine. As a result, some of the first cross-continent tradings involved wine, which developed and grew into the booming industry it is today.

The quest for quality then became an economic driver for these wine growing regions, which later drove cultural expansion – giving regions like Greece and Rome an economic boost and trade advantage. What followed were political alliances, the trading of information, wine making techniques, and of course the introduction of more varieties of wine.

Wine led to the collapse of the Ottoman Empire Suleiman the Magnificent reigned over the Ottoman Empire for forty-six years from 1520 to 1566 and was the tenth and longest-reigning Sultan of the Ottoman Empire. Under Suleiman's patronage, the Ottoman Empire entered the golden age of grandeur, prosperity and cultural development which was never afterwards surpassed, and from which it soon began to decline.

His predecessor Selim II gained the throne after palace intrigue and fraternal dispute. He became the first sultan who took no interest in military matters and was willing to abandon power to his ministers, provided he was left free to pursue his interest in orgies and other debauchery. His love of wine earned him the repuation as a "Drunkard".

It was said that his love of wine influenced his decision to invade Cyprus rather than support the Morisco Revolt in Granada and ultimately led to his death which involved him drunkenly slipping on the wet floor of a bathhouse injuring his head.

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

www.huntervalleycheese.com.au

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WINE

Brenda completed training through the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the world-renowned authority in the diamond industry, and began creating her range of jewellery designs for the store.

THE

Exclusive Diamond Company opened its doors in the heart of wine country in April this year, and Brenda said it was the ideal location for her second store.

“The village is gorgeous, and I created the beautiful little shop, which has a different feel to it. It is a very feminine store; it comes from a very female point of view,” she said.

DIAMOND CO. WORDS Michelle Meehan Brenda Phillips-Donohoe has travelled a long way to end up back where she started – and she couldn’t be happier about moving home to the Hunter.

After spending years away from the region working and raising her family, the Cessnock woman has finally returned to her roots after deciding to expand her diamond and fine jewellery business to Pokolbin.

“There’s so many beautiful brides (in the Hunter) and so many opportunities to be part of their happy ever after.

“But I’m really looking forward to being here for the locals, as well as the bridal market.”

The store offers a wide range of white, yellow and rose gold jewellery, from Brenda’s own contemporary, vintage and bespoke designs to others sourced from Canada, America and Europe.

They are also the exclusive Australian and New Zealand retailers of a sterling silver line of jewellery, which comes from the Caribbean.

Certified loose diamonds are available in all shapes, colours and sizes, while the store also offers an extensive range of sought-after black diamonds and the incredibly rare tanzanite, ensuring customers will find something truly special when they visit Exclusive Diamond Company.

Brenda opened the Exclusive Diamond Company in simple yet elegant surrounds at the Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village around three months ago, offering a range of stunning natural diamonds, precious and semi-precious gemstones set in private label and bespoke jewellery “I love it, and that’s what makes the store just that little bit special, just that little bit different,” Brenda said. designs you won’t find elsewhere.

The store is the crowning jewel in her successful and extremely diverse “For me, the most important thing is for my customers to be happy and wearing something that they’re emotionally attached to. career. Brenda began her working life as a banker, travelled to London to become a currency trader and ended up on Norfolk Island. There she “And the nice thing is that I’ve helped them find that.” ran her own café and catered for airline companies before buying the Exclusive Diamond Company is open six days a week Exclusive Diamonds shop from a South African diamond cutter.

(Tuesday to Sunday) and every day of the school The mother-of-four ran the Norfolk Island store for 12 years before holidays. To find out more visit deciding to expand its presence into the Hunter once all of her children www.exclusivediamondco.com.au had grown up and left home.

“I believe you can do anything if you put your mind to it,” Brenda said.

“I lived on Norfolk Island for 18 years, and about 12 years ago I purchased the (jewellery) business off a South African diamond cutter.

“For three months he trained me extensively (in the process of cutting and polishing diamonds) and introduced me to all his contacts (in the industry internationally), who are still able to source almost anything for me today.”

Massive Wine Sale at The Garden Cellars

“Largest beer range

$50 cases, $100 cases and $144 cases available throughout July.

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

THE GARDEN

CELLARS thb 18 | JULY 2017

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

RPM Images

Mountain’, awarded to the fastest single lap of the 96km long course heat.

The Milbrodale Mountain Classic not only attracts Off Road Racers but also some of Australia’s V8 Supercar drivers such as Dick Johnson, Mark Skaife, George Fury, Colin Bond, Glenn Seton, Andrew Meidecke, Kevin Waldock and Tony Longhurst previously testing their skills in the dirt.

MILBRODALE

The weekend of racing is jam packed full of racing action for spectators as the race course wraps around the spectator area.

Spectators also have the chance to get close to the cars and talk to the competitors when the pits are open to the public during the lunch break.

Mountain Classic

This event has a great family atmosphere with many activities over the weekend including off-road racing action, jumping castles, face painting, helicopter rides and more. The helicopter joy flights will operate on Saturday and Sunday following the race course, giving you a bird’s eye view of all the racing action.

The Hunter Valley Off Road Racing Association will be holding the 31st Milbrodale Mountain Classic on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th July on private property on Welshs Road at Milbrodale.

If you want to experience the full weekend of racing action, there are designated camping areas available for only $30 per car. Camping spaces are limited, and will not be allocated, so it will be first in best dressed.

The event has become a premier event on the Australian off-road racing calendar. It is not only Round 4 of the NSW Off-Road Championship but also Round 1 of the Long Course Series and Round 2 of the Tri Challenge Series. Many competitors will also be vying to be crowned ‘Man of the

This year’s event is predicted to be the best one yet, so do not miss it.

Admission to the event is $10 per day, with kids 12 years old and under free. For more information, visit www.hvorra.com.au

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

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

AWARD WINNING VENUE

LIVE MUSIC AND GREAT FOOD AT POTTERS HOTEL BREWERY RESORT

HOME OF

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

RELAX

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

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ADULTS ONLY Hot Chocolate Recipes SALTED CARAMEL VODKA HOT CHOCOLATE

RED WINE HOT CHOCOLATE

Ingredients • 2 cups of milk • 100g dark chocolate, broken into small pieces • 40ml Hunter Distillery Caramel Vodka • 2 tbsp double cream • Pinch of sea salt

Ingredients • 85g dark chocolate, finely chopped • 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder OP • 1 tbsp packed brown sugar OUP RI CTK S • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon • 2 cups milk • Pinch of salt • ¾ cup fruity red wine, such as Merlot, Shiraz, or Zinfandel • Cinnamon sticks and additional cocoa powder, for serving (optional)

Method 1. Heat the milk in a small saucepan on the stove. Take it off just before it’s about to boil.

2. Add chocolate and sea salt and stir with a wooden spoon until all the chocolate has melted and the mixture has thickened. Add more salt to taste.

3. When all the chocolate has melted, stir in the vodka and the double cream.

4. Pour into mugs, top with whipped cream (optional) and enjoy.

Method 1. In a large saucepan, whisk together the dark chocolate, cocoa powder, brown sugar and cinnamon.

2. Add the milk and bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until smooth (about 5 minutes). Then stir in the salt.

3. Remove from the heat and add the wine.

4. Pour into mugs, garnish with a cinnamon stick and a dusting of cocoa powder (optional) and serve.

OPEN FOR TASTINGS AND SALES

7 Days, 10am - 5pm 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley PH (02) 4998 6737 • info@hunterdistillery.com.au www.hunterdistillery.com.au thb 20 | JULY 2017

Hunter Valley

Chocolate Company EST. 1999

Kelman Vineyard

WORDS Michelle Meehan

It’s not unusual to have views of a fairway from your front door, with golf course estates popping up all over the place. But to live life in a community-owned vineyard – well, that’s something only one place in Australia can offer.

Located in the heart of Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company has been a family owned and operated Hunter Valley gem for the last 17 years.

Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience, with a tantalising range of premium hand-made chocolate and chocolate products plus more than 30 flavours of freshly made fudge!

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

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

Established in 1996 by Stewart Ewen, Pokolbin’s Kelman Vineyard is an address like no other. The award-winning vineyard has not been set out in the traditional manner with row upon row of grapes, with the vines, instead meandering between the estate’s 85 privately-owned properties.

Changes made in the Environmental Protection Act after the estate was established, which relate to the distance between human habitation and agricultural activity, mean the Kelman concept can’t be replicated elsewhere, ensuring it offers a truly unique lifestyle for its residents.

The majority of the houses are set on about an acre of land each, while 13 two-bedroom cottages occupy quarter acre blocks. Owners are a mix of permanent residents and weekenders of all ages, from families with children through to retirees.

The vineyard is also home to a five-star bed and breakfast, The Cooperage.

While residents own their land and their house, the vines and the fruit of the vines are owned by the community. Residents are invited to simply enjoy living within the tranquil surrounds or become involved in the community and the operation of the vineyard.

Maggie Polling has lived at Kelman for six years and volunteers as the marketing co-ordinator for the estate. She can sometimes be found lending a hand (along with other owner volunteers) behind the bar in the cellar door and has also taken part in the annual grape harvest.

“It is a fantastic place to live,” she said.

“It’s an estate in which the homes have been designed to fit into the vineyard and you can get as involved in the vineyard as you like.

“It can’t happen again because of changes (in the law) made since this was built, so it is a bit special because you can’t get it anywhere else. Everyone who lives here enjoys the environment of it and there is a really nice community spirit.”

Of course Kelman is more than just a residential estate, with the vineyard also producing a range of award-winning and premium Hunter wines including the classic Semillon, Shiraz and Chardonnay.

After celebrating its first vintage in 1999, Kelman Estate’s wines quickly won favourable attention from wine show judges, with the triple medalwinning 2000 Semillon signalling the start of a steady flow of medals and trophies being awarded to wines produced from the vineyard.

Later plantings at the vineyard have included Muscat and Tempranillo, while more recently Kelman has introduced a range of lightly sweet wines with evocative names such as Seduction and Indulgence that have proven to be very popular. The estate’s pale salmon pink Moscato, which tastes almost like liquid Turkish delight, is also renowned in the Hunter and beyond with the 2015 vintage named the second best of its type in Australia.

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

Kelman Vinetard was named in honour of William Dalrymple Kelman, who was the son-in-law of John Busby and one of the earliest vignerons in the Hunter Valley.

A collection of historical memorabilia, accumulated over the years by the Kelman historian, Jim Fitz-Gerald (another Kelman resident), is on show in the estate’s Barrel Room, highlighting the history and influence both Kelman and Busby had on the development of the Hunter wine region.

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COFFEE

COFFEE

Obsessed!

WORDS Quentin von Essen

Australians take their coffee very seriously and in a short period (less than 25 years), have become a land of coffee obsessives, a nation of people not afraid to declare that our coffee is, in fact, better than others. We drink flat whites and long blacks, cold drip and single origin, lattes, cappuccinos, ristrettos, piccolos, macchiato’s and mocha’s - and we are very particular about who prepares and serves our daily coffee.

We know the difference between a good coffee and a bad coffee and for me making great coffee is like creating a great wine. The better the grape, the better the drop - the better the bean, the better the blend.

Interestingly, Starbucks, which dominates coffee markets around the world, failed to succeed in Australia. Starbucks opened its first Australian cafe in 2000 and by 2008 had expanded to 84 locations - far fewer outlets than in similarly sized markets. By the end of 2008, the company closed 61 of those cafes and cut 700 jobs. The reality was, Starbucks thought they could offer Australian coffee drinkers the same coffee offerings that they offer their American market. And anyone who has ever tried coffee in the USA, they will tell you their coffee has nothing on Australian coffee. Our coffee market is full of little cafes offering quality coffee for a competitive price. There are however some

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coffee chains surviving in Australia, but their offerings are more in line with Australian tastes.

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.

In real terms, our coffee culture is (in comparison) a very recent phenomenon. In the early 1900’s, Greek immigrants in Sydney and Melbourne began to open cafes where they would serve cups of coffee with locally roasted beans. But, what drove coffee consumption in Australia and initiated the espresso craze was the huge wave of Italian immigration in the 1950’s and 1960’s. In the early 1950’s, fine Italian coffeehouses with their espresso machines began to pop up in Sydney, Melbourne and from there to every other city in Australia.

If you are in the mood for a wonderful aromatic coffee from people who take their coffee seriously, then here are a few top coffee spots: The Deck Café at Gartelmann Wines in picturesque 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 have a distinctive espresso character.

From delicate yet complex, to rich, full-bodied dark roast, these carefully blended and slowly roasted coffees have been specially developed to offer regional taste nuances.

Known for their outstanding breakfasts and lunches (served with a glass of sparkling wine or two), Restaurant Cuvee also comes 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 that overlook the distant Ipanema Beach in Rio, creating an easy drinking coffee with wellbalanced acidity and sweetness.

We might have come to the party relatively late, but you will be pleased to know that coffee connoisseurs all over the world have also come to agree that Australians do have some of the best coffee in the world. In fact, the 'flat white' – a style of espresso coffee created in Australia, has even started turning up in the cafes of New York and London.

For those in doubt, when Time Magazine published its top 5 coffee cities to visit, Melbourne was the only modern city listed alongside those historical coffee destinations such as Istanbul, Rome, Vienna, and Addis Ababa.

Australians have also now begun competing in international coffee competitions, with Australian baristas consistently making it into the top three spots in the World Barista Championship – considered to be the most prestigious international coffee competition.

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 on Broke Road in Pokolbin also serves up a wonderful blend of coffee. The blend they use is the Glinelli Specialty Coffee blend – an in-house, award-winning milk based coffee from Mill House Roasters.

Located at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, the family-friendly crew at Dear Coffee strive to deliver great service and a delicious range of fare. Along with their exceptional Segafredo coffee, they offer a range of Hunter Valley Cookies, wraps, crepes, local-made Gelato, smoothies, ice creams and pancakes that are freshly made with fresh strawberries, dollop cream and gelato.

The always welcoming Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen in Pokolbin with its superb vineyard views is a great spot to kick back and enjoy a great cup of coffee made with Sicilia Organic coffee beans – a full-bodied, 100% organically grown Arabica blend providing a smooth and flavoursome coffee with great crema and sweetness.

R EC REATI NG H I S T O RY Bringing the old vines back to their fo fformer rmer glory glory... y 310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin 2320 PH (02) 4998 7885 E cellar@wynwoodestate.com.au W www.wynwoodestate.com.au 23 | JULY 2017 thb

AT THE MARKETS Much more than a Vineyard.

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

Come Waltzing with Matilda...

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

Hunter Valley

Reflections Day Spa

MONTE DWYER...

A Familiar Face has Found his Calling WORDS Michelle Meehan

COUPLES DELIGHT PACKAGE

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

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

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

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

Monte Dwyer is a man on a mission – to seek out stories from across Australia that may otherwise go untold.

Born in Newcastle and raised in Lake Macquarie, Monte trained as a psychiatric nurse at Morisset before trying his hand at everything from being a professional fisherman to stints as a fashion model and foreign aid worker.

He trained in Theatre Arts in Darwin during the late eighties and landed a gig presenting the weather for the local ABC TV station before spending 11 years in his most well-known role as the naturally witty but somewhat madcap weatherman on Channel Nine’s Today program in the late 1990s.

In more recent times, he has been making a name for himself through his Red in the Centre project, which sees the journalist and author travel across the country sourcing those stories that are seldom told. Monte has compiled these stories in a series of books, audio books and DVDs that he sells at a range of markets, including Handmade in the Hunter.

“As is often the case with these ideas it developed generically after I was asked by Charles Wooley to jump in a camper van and roam the country and interview people for his (then) radio show Across Australia,” Monte said.

“I wrote about the experience as I travelled, and the books were so wellreceived I kept doing it.

“For inspiration I look to the arts, especially the literary writers - Cormac McCarthy, Joseph Conrad, John Steinbeck, Shakespeare of course - but also the travel writers who I believe brought something unique to their work, such as Bruce Chatwin, Ernestine Hill, Hunter S Thompson, Graham Greene, et al. I also find poverty an inspirational motivator.”

Monte also has a number of fiction novels under his belt and will release a true crime book entitled Struberville - The Consequences of Isolation in coming months, which is based on the story of a murder he stumbled across a couple of years ago in North Queensland.

To find out more about Monte’s work visit www.monte.com.au or check out his stand at this month’s Handmade in the Hunter Markets, which will be held at Kevin Sobels Wines on July 1, 8, 15 and 22 from 9am to 3pm.

thb 24 | JULY 2017

Located at Calais Estate.

On the verandah or inside by the fireplace, the Verandah Restaurant is the ultimate in dining for those who enjoy great modern Australian food served tapas style.

Open 7 Days for Lunch, Thursday - Sunday for Dinner.

www.verandahrestaurant.com.au

Wine & Oysters

A feast for the senses

WORDS Quentin von Essen

Consider this a public service announcement from your friends at The Hunter Blackboard Magazine –Winter is the peak season for enjoying fresh oysters.

If this doesn’t make you get out there right now and start slurping down these bad boys, we don’t know what will!

Ok, time to fess up… Although it’s said that oysters provide the best eating in the cooler months, Pacific oysters can be enjoyed all year round in Australia.

With three different oyster species, Australia’s Oyster Coast produces premium oysters all year round. Seasonally, Sydney Rock oysters are usually at their peak during the warmer months, Pacific oysters can be enjoyed throughout the year, and Angasi oysters are at their best in winter.

And while we love oysters alone, there is something about oysters and wine that’s just too difficult to ignore – the combination is simply divine.

(Continued) ►

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

Wine Glass Gallery Because great wine deserves a great wine glass

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

Cheers Bus

Hunter Valley Guided Winery Tours

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

book@cheersbus.com • Call John on 0408 987 057 25 | JULY 2017 thb

Some of these differences in taste have to do with the species, but mostly it has to do with the temperature of the waters in which they are harvested. Just as wine is influenced by its “terroir”, an oysters flavour and texture is influenced by the water in which it is grown As mentioned before, while there are no hard and fast rules for wine pairing, there are certain flavours and wines that just complement each other well.

The two most important things to consider when pairing wine and oysters are the body of the oyster and wine and the sweetness or saltiness of the two. The body is important in that one should not overpower the other. In this case, it is also important to match the oyster's fleshiness with the wine’s weight and the acid of the wine to the saltiness of the oyster.

Is there anything better or more enticing than a tray of recently shucked oysters and a glass of white wine?

Crisp, clean white wines are a classic way to bring out the delicate complexity of oysters. But there are more unusual options that work well too - especially if you are up to experimenting with new tastes and flavours.

The most classic pairing with oysters is, of course, Sparkling Wine or Champagne. The crisp fizziness of these wines accents the mineral qualities of the oyster by cutting through the richness and enhancing the oyster's subtle flavours. This pairing is particularly agreeable when the oysters and the Sparkling Wine are both served chilled.

Other delicious complements include dry white wines. For me, a bonedry Riesling, Hunter Semillon or a Chardonnay are a good match to the Finding wine to match the briny richness of oysters is easier than you distinctive seaweed, salty and mineral tastes that these wines have to may think. Contrary to popular opinion, not all oysters taste alike, and compete with. Chardonnay may not always be considered the ideal there are numerous types of oysters with varying flavours and finishes choice for raw oysters but can be very nice with cooked ones, particularly some are brinier, creamier, leaner or fatter and some even have a "fruity" in a creamy sauce or chowder. taste. This leaves the door open for a wide-range of wine options to pair with these tasty little molluscs.

Harrigan’s New Winter Menu Is Now Here!

Our team have been creating a delicious menu for you, with some great new meals to warm you up this winter.

Call 4998 4300 and book a table today

harrigans.com.au - Broke Road Pokolbin

thb 26 | JULY 2017

Sauvignon Blanc offers another lean and focused, mineral-driven choice and the brisk acidity and citrus tartness of these wines go well with raw oysters. Taking a sip of a refreshing Sauvignon Blanc can be like a fresh squeeze of lemon as both tend to cut through the rich, succulent texture of the oyster - preparing the palate for another. Sauvignon Blanc works particularly well when served with Asian flavours as they often are in Australia.

Another exciting option is a Pinot Grigio, which follows the northern Italian winemaking styles and tends to have crisp, bracing acidity and a focus more on minerality than on fruitiness There are many wines to choose from out there, but as long as you choose something light with a tart edge, it should pair well with oysters.

Wine isn’t the only option you have when searching for the right accompaniment for oysters. If you tire of wine but still want something good to drink with your oysters, consider an Irish stout or any good smooth and malty craft beer. The malt and creamy texture of the beer complement the saltiness of the oyster.

The team at Hunter Beer Co. brew an Oyster Stout every year - a classic dry Irish stout that is very, very dry with espresso on the nose and generous roast coffee in the mouth. Another suitable beer for oysters would be the Hunter Bock - a dark German lager with hints of caramel, biscuit and espresso.

Have we got you in the mood for oysters? Some of our favourite places to enjoy oysters are: • Hunters Quarter restaurant, where they are serving up freshly shucked Salamander Bay Oysters with white soy, pickled ginger and lime.

• The Verandah Restaurant is renowned for their delicious Sydney Rock trio oyster taster plate – served tempura with wasabi aioli, Virgin Mary and soy mirin.

• The Cellar Restaurant, where you can choose from a choice of a half-dozen or a dozen Sydney Rock oysters served natural or with eschalot and sherry vinaigrette.

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

Organic Wines

Tasting under the silk tree

Jack’s bbq in the orchard

Restaurant Indoor/Outdoor Dining Fresh Local Produce Also available for Weddings, Events and Private Functions

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

TASTE A RANGE OF AWARD WINNING ORGANIC WINES OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK: Cellar Door hours 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM AWARD WINNING WINES. AVAILABLE AT FINE WINE CELLARS. COME AND ENJOY OUR PRISTINE CERTIFIED ORGANIC VINEYARD! FOR A WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE PAIRED WITH ORGANIC CHEESE AND OLIVES, PLEASE CONTACT US PH: 02 6574 5275 MOB: 0431 357 105 WWW.ASCELLAWINE.COM INFO@ASCELLAWINE.COM WWW.SILKRADIOTV.COM

RIVERPINES VINEYARD 203 THOMPSONS RD MILBRODALE, NSW 2330

27 | JULY 2017 thb

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

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

Located at Gartelmann Wines.

The Deck Café Lovedale provides a diverse and delightful menu complimented by Gartelmann Wines and Piazza Doro Coffee.

Open 7 Days for Breakfast and Lunch.

Mon to Fri 8.30am till 3.30pm, Sat and Sun 8am till 3.30pm.

www.deckcafelovedale.com.au thb 28 | JULY 2017

“We figured it was now or never, and although we came from a very different background (Tim was in IT, and I was in finance), we quit our full-time jobs, packed up our lives and relocated to the area.

“We officially launched the service on July 3, 2015, and two whole years later we’re still here, which is a bit of a milestone for us.”

The iHop bus operates along a set loop, which takes around 70 minutes to complete and has 13 “hops” (stops) along the way, allowing passengers to explore the best wineries, breweries, distillery, food options and shopping areas the central Pokolbin region has to offer.

Passengers can hop on and off the bus as many times as they like throughout the day, staying at their desired venue for as long as they want before hopping back on the bus the next time it stops at their destination.

It’s A Hoppy Birthday WORDS Michelle Meehan

After eight years of visiting the Hunter Valley vineyards, Tim and Kristy Burness felt they knew what was missing – a flexible, affordable and convenient way to get from one cellar door to the next.

Kristy said it had been hard work getting their name out there and building relationships within the local wine and tourism industries, but after two years iHop Hunter Valley is flourishing, with the business expanding to offer several additional experiences.

This included launching two different night tours in 2016 to provide more options for after-hours experiences in the vineyard; the Wine and Cheese Lovers’ Progressive Dinner including seven courses and exclusive after-hours access and behind the scenes insight into a family-run winery, as well as the Beeries and Foodies Experience, focused on the art of beer and food matching.

More recently they introduced an all-day hands-on Masterclass in the Hunter Tour, which includes winemaking, wine tasting and cocktail artistry masterclasses, as well as plenty of chances to taste a variety of local wine, food and produce.

Kristy said she and Tim were passionate about the future of the business.

So, rather than wait for someone else to provide it, the Central Coast “Two years on we feel like we’re starting to cement ourselves in the local couple quit their jobs, sold their house and relocated to wine country to area,” she said. set up iHop Hunter Valley – the vineyard region’s first hop-on, hop-off “We’ve got lots of new ideas, we’re bringing on new initiatives, and we’re bus service. almost at the point of needing to employ someone other than the two It wasn’t quite as simple as it sounds of course, with the couple of us now, which is pretty exciting. spending about 12 months planning their new venture, talking to “To us, it’s not a job really; it doesn’t feel like work – I pinch myself every Cessnock City Council and industry stakeholders as well as jumping day that we are able to be out there doing what we’re passionate about, through all the regulatory hoops required to set up a bus service. meeting people from all over the world and those locals who haven’t “We did a lot of research, we spoke to the council and industry, and from really explored their own backyard. the positive feedback we received we felt it was a well-calculated risk “If we can give them something they’re not expecting then we’re happy (to set up the business),” Kristy said. with that.”

“We had spent eight or so years visiting the region, we love our food and wine, and we’d done all the self-drive tours, the fixed tours and even walked between cellar doors.

To celebrate their 2nd Birthday, iHop “We identified the need for a transport service that gave people flexibility and was affordable enough to do what they wanted to do in their own time.

“Hop-on, hop-off services are not unique, they’re done all over the world, but we are technically Australia’s first wine region hop-on, hop-off service.

are offering 15% off all Day & Night Tours for the month of July. To redeem, use the promo code ‘bday15%’ when booking your tour online at www.ihophuntervalley.com.au or over the phone on 0455 535 035.

Explore the Hunter by Day and Night aboard iHop!

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus – 14 stops around the Hunter Valley allowing you to Explore Your Way at over 40 venues!

MasterCLASS Tour – Don't just taste – learn and create with this hands-on tour experience!

Tour by Night – Indulge in the Hunter night life on one of our progressive dining and educational adventures!

E explore@ihophuntervalley.com.au • PH 0455 535 035 • www.ihophuntervalley.com.au 29 | JULY 2017 thb

EXPLORE

Aboriginal people are the oldest known civilisation on earth and have inhabited Australia for tens of thousands of years. The Hunter region has a rich Aboriginal history and is home to Baiame Cave, one of the most significant Aboriginal sites on the east coast of Australia. Located in Milbrodale, south of Singleton, Baiame Cave is an Aboriginal Place and State Heritage listed site.

The Baiame Cave is an important Aboriginal location for its history and associations with the Wonnorua people, the traditional custodians of the land throughout the Upper Hunter Valley. The site is also of significance for its rare Aboriginal paintings.

One of the paintings of a large figured man is believed to depict the spirit of Baiame (Baime or Byamee), who according to Aboriginal Mythology was the creator, the 'Father of All', the most important ancestor and law-maker. According to the Wonnarua Dreamtime, the great spirit of Baiame created the Hunter Valley. He came down from the sky to the land and created rivers, mountains, plains, forests and every living thing. Baiame journeyed amongst the people and having imparted to them laws, traditions, songs and culture, he returned to the sky, stepping up from Mount Yengo nearby (hence the flattened summit). As a result, Mount Yengo is a sacred Aboriginal site, as significant to East Coast Aboriginal people as Uluru is to the Central Desert people.

BAIAME CAVE

Reveals Local Aboriginal History...

Baiame also created Kawal to watch over the Wonnarua people. The spirit of Kawal is embodied in the wedge-tailed eagle, found throughout the Hunter Valley. When the Wonnarua people see the wedge-tailed eagle, they believe Kawal is looking over them, protecting them.

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

The most unique, relaxed wine experience in the Hunter Come enjoy spectacular vineyard and mountain vistas plus premium wines, such as an exclusively Hunter Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. Enjoy the magnificent views, listen to music and indulge in the peace and vistas our vineyard and cellar door has to offer!

Opening Hours Thursday to Monday 10am - 5pm

999 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998 7295 • MOB 0477 888 382 • www.blueberryhill.com.au

thb 30 | JULY 2017

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.

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

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

/OishiiPokolbin

In rock paintings, Baiame is often depicted as a human figure with a large head-dress or hairstyle, with lines of footprints nearby. The Baiame Cave features a painting of a man over two metres tall with extraordinary arms that spread five metres across the wall of the sandstone rock shelter. Below the right arm is a native tomahawk with handle and a boomerang below the left arm. The figure has a white outline and the space inside shaded red.

the Baiame Cave, to ensure safe access. A viewing platform, bench seats and signage was also installed.

It is hoped that the next stage of preservation of the site will be the introduction of toilets, signs and other developments to allow more people – including school and tour groups – to visit and appreciate Baiame Cave.

Baiame Cave is located off Welshs Road, Milbrodale. If you are planning The size of the painting in the Baiame Cove is significant as rock sites in a visit why not visit Ascella Organic Wines only a few kilometres down NSW are more likely to feature smaller-scale engravings of animals or the road to try their award-winning organic wines, or explore the human figures, or painted hand stencils rather than large painted human scenic Broke Fordwich stretch of the Wollombi Brook, where you can figures. enjoy premium wines, fresh olive oils and gourmet products as well as Compared to other parts of Australia, archaeological research has wonderful restaurants and cafés. shown that the Aboriginal occupancy of the Hunter Valley has been quite recent, possible less than 2000 years, suggesting the Baiame Cave painting is no older than a couple of thousand years old.

The first documented description of the Baiame Cave came from surveyor R.H. Mathews in 1873 for the Royal Society of NSW. He identified the figure as Baiame and made a record of the cave paintings, which had been known to white colonisers since at least the 1840’s.

This was the commencement of his distinguished career in Aboriginal anthropology.

In 1951, the land on which Baiame Cave is located was purchased by the current owners, the Smith family. Under the Smiths, the land below the cave has been used as a dairy farm with orchards and vineyards and is now used mainly for running cattle.

Although located on privately owned farmland, the cave is accessible to the public via Welshs Road courtesy of the current owners. The cave is highly valued by the Wonnarua people, who still use it for ceremonies and as a place to teach their young people about their culture.

In the early 1990’s, the National Parks and Wildlife Service built a timber and packed-earth stairway from Welshs Road up the embankment to

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

Closed from 17th July Re-open 3rd August

Pair something scrumptious with a delicious Hunter Valley wine... it’s a unique Hunter Valley experience that you can only enjoy at Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar. The Sabor Dessert Menu features over 50 different desserts, each one created individually. Nothing is served by the slice and this brings a new level of culinary delight to desserts in the Hunter Valley.

Indulge in multi-award winning Portuguese chocolate mousse, decadent cakes, pastries, hand-made chocolates, Portuguese tarts and gourmet ice-cream.

There is also a large range of gluten free desserts, barista-made Glinelli coffee and a selection of teas to enjoy amongst the vines or to take away and savour in your home or hotel.

Enjoy a world of desserts at Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar Pokolbin!

Located at Lambloch Estate 2342 Broke Rd, Pokolbin • PH 1300 958 939

Open Thurs & Fri 10am - 4.30pm, Sat 10am - 9.30pm, Sun & Mon 10am - 4.30pm

www.saborinthehunter.com.au 31 | JULY 2017 thb

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12 + 13 AROMA: COFFEE & CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL at Riverside Carpark, Maitland Aroma: Coffee & 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 their uses at home.

This year’s festival will host stalls featuring quality coffee, chocolate, gourmet comfort food and produce, as well as roving performers, interactive activities and much more.

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

17 - 27 WEIRD AND WONDERFUL MORPETH TEA PARTY Morpeth Gallery Morpeth’s Weird and Wonderful Teapot and Tea Cosy Exhibition at Morpeth Gallery 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, chocolate and other sweet treats, will round out a tea‐rific day for one and all.

For more information, visit www.morpethgallery.com Pepper Tree Wines invites you and your furry friends to join them for their annual Pooch Picnic on the luscious grounds adjacent to their cellar door.

13 POOCH PICNIC at Peppertree Wines

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The dog friendly, fun‐filled picnic day will include training demonstrations and trick shows by The Wonderdogs, pet pampering and competitions for both dogs and kids.

25 - 27 NEWCASTLE FOOD & WINE EXPO at Newcastle Entertainment Centre Now in its 5th 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 Australia’s best gourmet food and exquisite wine producers and see kitchenware demos of the latest home products.

A highlight of the weekend is an intimate dining experience with MasterChef favourite, Ben Milbourne. Ben will be preparing a delicious degustation, each course paired with a matching wine.

For more information visit www.foodandwineexpo.com.au

19 WINERY LONG LUNCH at Calais Estate

Wine, food and coffee will be available for purchase, as well as picnic hampers for $55 (advanced booking required).

Entry is a gold coin donation, to be donated to Dog Rescue Newcastle. All social dogs are welcome; however, they must be on a leash. For more information, visit www.peppertreewines.com.au

27 ANNUAL HUNTER FRENCH CAR DAY at Nightingale Wines The Annual Hunter French Car Day is back again at Nightingale Wines in Broke.

This is the ultimate day out for French car enthusiasts with classic and modern French cars on display, with competitions and prizes for best in show.

For those not interested in the vehicles, there will be live music and French inspired food stalls to get you into the spirit. The Nightingale Wines Cellar Door and Restaurant will also be open all day. Enjoy the relaxed ambience of wine country at one of the Hunter Valley’s most scenic vineyards!

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

31 ART AFTER HOURS at Cessnock Regional Art Gallery

Art After Hours is held on the last Thursday of the month at the Cessnock Regional Art Gallery.

Come and enjoy a relaxed event after work where you can immerse yourself with beautiful art and conversation over a glass of wine.

There will also be various speakers and musical entertainment to help you wind down after a busy day.

Entry is free. For more information, visit www.crag.net.au

HunterValleyGardensShopping.com.au

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

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

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

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

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

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 menswear and accessories.

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

Comical wine glasses, coasters and much more.

Dine AND THE WINNER IS OSCARS - We are a family friendly café serving honest wholesome food and great coffee, in a casual relaxed environment. We are opened for breakfast, lunch and everything in between. Our menu is available dine in or take away and is sure to impress. Phone 4998 7355.

DEAR COFFEE - A sanctuary for coffee lovers to explore the delicious beans of Segafredo Coffee & relax in a peaceful nook – takeaway also. Tempt your tastebuds with our delicious home-style wraps or pancakes, as well as Hunter Valley Cookies and the famous Hunter Valley Gelato. Come, Enjoy, Savour...

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

THE CELLAR RESTAURANT - This award winning restaurant features an excellent selection of wines and serves Modern Australian cuisine in a relaxed, friendly environment. Open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday.

Bookings recommended. Phone 4998 7584.

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

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

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

HUNTER VALLEY LIQUEURS & BAERAMI OLIVES - Featuring the finest hand Crafted Hunter Liqueurs, Extra Virgin Olive Oils, table olives and Boutique Gifts. This is your one stop flavour destination when visiting the Hunter.

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

THE GARDEN CELLARS - We stock a wide range of boutique Hunter Valley and other regional wines. See our Tunnel Of Beer along with a variety of quality white, red, sweet, sparkling wines and much more.

HUNTER HONEY HIVE - Visit Hunter Honey Hive to experience everything honey and bee related, with free tastings daily!

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

Full of groceries and curiosity.

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

BROKE ROAD, POKOLBIN. OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 10AM