The Hunter Blackboard May 2014

M AY 2 0 1 4 | I S S U E # 8 7

HUNTER

THE

BLACKBOARD

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

T THE

Stay&Play ISSUE

Stop-Overs

ACCOMMODATION SPECIAL LIFTOUT

Lovedale Long Lunch A Weekend of Celebrations

WINE COUNTRY Gets Festive!

ROLLS ROYCE R lli iinto t th Rolling the H Hunter Valley

HunterValleyOnline.com.au

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may 1ST—3RD & 8TH 10TH MAY 2014 |ROMEO & JULIET at Tulloch Wines To celebrate Shakespeare’s 450th birthday, Upstage Youth Theatre and Tulloch Wines combine to present a magical and sophis cated produc on of Romeo and Juliet. Upstage has a fantas c reputa on for site speci c theatre. For the rst me with this produc on, they are partnering with Tulloch Wines in Pokolbin and will be u lising their wonderful courtyard as their stage.

Audiences are invited to picnic under the stars, live their rst love again and “borrow Cupid’s wings”. For more informa on visit www.tullochwines.com

2ND 4TH MAY 2014 | TOCAL FIELD DAYS at Tocal This premium agricultural event a racts around 30,000 visitors and 400 exhibits. Highly regarded for its educa onal aspect, Tocal combines a genuine rural experience with commerce, entertainment, fashion, regional food, wine and cra all served with the renowned Tocal country hospitality. Pick up show specials with eight tractor companies for comparison, solar gates, log spli ers, ca le yards, solar operated gates, tools galore, big sheds and small quad bikes. For more informa on visit www.tocal elddays.com.au.

4TH MAY 2014 | LOVE ON THE LAWN at Wandin Valley Estate Love on the lawn is a beau ful new and crea ve way for wedding vendors, who service the Hunter Valley area, to showcase their work and inspire couples who have chosen to have their wedding in the area. Now in its second year, there will be over 100 wedding vendors to meet and help plan your special day. This is an innova ve, personality lled, unique wedding fes val with live entertainment, great wine from local vineyards and great food. For more informa on and ckets visit www.loveonthelawn.com.au.

9TH & 10TH MAY 2014 | 56TH ANNUAL ROLLS ROYCE RALLY at Hunter Valley th

Gardens & Morpeth | Don’t miss the 56 Federal Rolls Royce Owners Rally which will be run over ve days in May 2014 for the rst ever me in the Hunter Valley. With over 300 pres ge cars involved, the main opportunity for the public to view these cars being the Display Day on Saturday 10 May in the large car park of Hunter Valley Gardens from 9.00am – 3.00pm. There will also be a scenic drive on Friday 9 May from Pokolbin through to Morpeth where the cars will be on display from 11.00am – 2.00pm in the grounds of Closeburn Village on Morpeth Road. This is certainly a spectacle not to be missed as it won’t return to NSW for another 6 years!

17TH & 18TH MAY | LOVEDALE LONG LUNCH at Lovedale This Hunter Valley event is a progressive style lunch where food and wine lovers can feast and dance around seven Lovedale wineries over the third weekend in May each year. These Lovedale wineries team with local Hunter Valley restaurants for a weekend of ne wine, gourmet food and live entertainment. Get a group of friends together, stay in Lovedale accommoda on, book a bus tour and enjoy a fun and relaxing weekend away at the Hunter Valley's most unmissable food and wine event of 2014. For more informa on and ckets visit www.lovedalelonglunch.com.au.

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SPECIAL OFFERS AVAILABLE from 1st May 2014 until the 31st May 2014 inclusive or while stocks last.

17TH & 18TH MAY |MORPETH CHAPEL JAZZ throughout Morpeth | Morpeth Chapel Jazz is a joint venture of the three churches of Morpeth. Un l the 1980s, Morpeth was a rundown village in fear of demoli on. Then it was slowly rejuvenated as a des na on and what was le of its charming buildings rescued from the bulldozer. A few local businesses joined together to establish a small jazz fes val in the bicentenary year of 1988. The jazz fes val soon acquired a life of its own and by 2000 had developed into a major event on the Morpeth calendar. For more informa on visit www.chapeljazz.com.

GET MOBILE! 24TH & 25TH MAY 2014 |3 VILLAGE ART FESTIVAL throughout Paterson, Gresford & Vacy | The 3 Village Art Fes val is the rst of its kind, a signi cant and unique two day event celebra on of the arts held amongst the three picturesque and historic villages of Paterson, Vacy and Gresford situated in the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys. At each Village (about 6km apart) art, photography, sculpture, woodwork and numerous other examples of visual arts will be displayed. Enjoy market stalls, vintage car and bike displays, children's ac vi es and entertainment. For more informa on visit www.3villagear es val.com.au

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2 | MAY 2014

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from the

EDITORS For many years whilst living in Sydney our “weekend away” was always the Hunter Valley. For us it was the opportunity to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city, smell the roses (and the fresh air!) and return a er only a couple of nights feeling like we’d been away for a week.

We enjoyed our weekends so much that it was no surprise to our friends when we decided that we wanted to move to the Hunter Valley permanently and open our own accommoda on with a guesthouse in Lovedale. Li le did we realise how much it would change our lives!

From a group holiday for family & friends to a roman c weekend for two, the Hunter Valley truly does have a place to suit every occasion and every budget.

We encourage you to “li out” the guide and keep it for your next visit. You never know—you may end up moving here too!

It was only from living in the area that we began to learn about the history of the Hunter Valley (Australia’s oldest wine region) —which is vast—and chequered!

From tradi onal tribal lands to convict escapes and the accidental discovery of the Hunter River, the Hunter Valley has This month we celebrate “stopping over” grown to become not only the oldest, but in the Hunter Valley with our Special Stay also Australia’s premier wine region, with & Play Li out. over 150 wineries and almost 70 It’s true that the new Hunter Expressway restaurants—truly a gourmands paradise. has brought the vineyards just that li le As you would expect in an area such as bit closer for travellers —but to truly this, we also have a terrific annual appreciate and enjoy all of the calendar of events for visitors to look experiences the area has to offer —you forward to—you’ll find a selec on of really need to stay for at least a couple of these great events in this issue. days.

As I sit on the back verandah overlooking Our Stay & Play Li out showcases some our neighbours vineyards I can think of of the beau ful and varied no be er me to visit this magnificent accommoda on available in the area. area than Autumn. Enjoy your stay!

HIGHLIGHTS LOVEDALE LONG LUNCH | Held amongst the picturesque vineyards of Lovedale, this annual event was started in 1994 to promote Lovedale as a premium wine producing area...

CONVICT ESCAPADE & A CHANCE DISCOVERY | Over 30,000 years ago the land we now know as the Hunter Valley was inhabited by the Wonnarua tribe of Aboriginal Australians ...

BEER CONNOISSEUR | Beer is part of the Australian culture and is going through a renaissance experienced by the wine industry 22 years ago….

SPECIAL LIFTOUT | STAY & PLAY Take this super-handy accommoda on guide home— you’re sure to find just the right Hunter Valley escape for you!

HUNTER BLACKBOARD MAP | A popular addi on to each and every issue. Use it to find your way around Wine Country...

LET’S PARTY | If you love wine and food then there is no be er place to be than the Hunter Valley— home of Australia’s wine story and now the food and wine capital of Australia….

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T H I N G S TO D O

Currently on show is “Misanthropology” - an exhibi on by Adam Rish.

The art of Adam Rish spans cultures, techniques and mediums to produce a unique cross cultural collabora on - a 'world art' like 'world music.’

Adam Rish has worked on many collabora ve projects with local ar sts in the Kimberley, Indonesia, the Pacific Islands and in Turkey, together transforming tradi onal mo fs and tradi ons into new, engaging and o en humorous works of art.

Adam has won many na onal and interna onal art awards and his work is represented in the Australian Na onal Gallery, the Art Gallery of NSW, the Queensland Art Gallery and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery.

At the close of Misanthropology the Gallery will welcome “Landscape from Two Points of View” (from 15th May un l the 8th of June). The two points of view represented are from the very widely exhibited painters, Peter Griffen and Debra Liel-Brown.

Peter and Debra met at art school in Sydney and first exhibited together some twenty years ago. Since that me they have developed ever strengthening professional reputa ons, exhibi ng widely across Australia and interna onally.

It is amazing that a er this length of me, with so many differences in their individual life's journeys that their work should s ll sit so well beside each other. The answer perhaps lies in their concentra on on the Australian landscape as much the influence of modernist masters such as Klee, Picasso and Miro. While their work is quite different stylis cally it is the result of similar processes from the direct experience of the landscape to the produc on of the final art works. Through the phases of observa on and sketching to the contempla on and development of those observa ons in the studio both ar sts infuse their work with emo on and feeling. They both celebrate the roles of chance and chaos in the crea ve process and it is this spontaneity and risk that helps define the individuality of their work.

As Peter said, "A pain ng is not a work of art un l it seems to be imbedded with that indefinable life force that enables it to resonate with nature."

This is a wonderfully engaging exhibi on that should not be missed.

Opening celebra ons will be held on Saturday 17th May at 2pm everybody is welcome! For more informa on visit www.crag.net.au.

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IT’S MOTHERS DAY! On Sunday 11th, roll out the Green Carpet at Hunter Valley Gardens and take the whole family out to Hunter Valley Gardens to make some las ng memories for Mothers Day. Kyle McKendry, General Manager of Hunter Valley Gardens says, “Hunter Valley Gardens provides a picturesque setting for all mums to relax and enjoy their special day. It’s important to spoil the important mother figures in our lives and show them how much we appreciate everything they do for us.”

Come along for a picnic in ”The Avenue” where families can give their Mum a day off by enjoying a picnic inside the Gardens with one of the tasty “Mums Day” picnic hampers.

The hampers need to be pre-booked and include delights such as Vegetable Fri ata, Roast Beef Bague e (Roast beef with pesto aioli, vine ripened tomato, le uce and cheese), Hunter Valley Cheese and lavosh, Macarons and a special picnic menu for the kids. The cost is $150 per hamper (which caters for 2 adults and 2 kids). Additional kids can be catered for at a cost of $10 each. All hampers need to be pre-booked by contacting Hunter Valley Gardens on 4998 4006 or visit www.hvg.com.au.

Harrigan’s Irish Pub will also be celebrating Mothers Day with all day feasting which includes a free glass of bubbly for Mum (bookings essential).

A live animal petting zoo will enable the kids to get up close and personal with some of their favourite animals. There’s also a jumping castle and face painting to keep the kids occupied while Mum relaxes!

For more information or bookings contact Harrigan’s on 4998 4300 or visit www.harrigans.com.au.

AT HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS If you’ve ever dreamed of owning and driving a Rolls Royce, no ma er what the vintage get out to Hunter Valley Gardens during May and take your pick from some of the elite vehicles owned by members of the Rolls Royce Owners Club of Australia during the 56th Annual Rolls Royce Federal Rally .

the original 1913 Trial. So no par cipa ng car was younger than 88 years old!

recreate the famous Alpine Rally of 1913. This event saw over 100 Silver Ghosts together in the one town, surely the largest gathering ever of these cars. Just to put this into perspec ve, the Silver Ghost was manufactured from 1906 to 1925 and some of the cars present at this rally took part in

The 56th Federal Rally will be run over five days in May 2014, with the main opportunity for the public to view these cars being the Display Day on Saturday 10 May 2014. This will be held in the large car park of Hunter Valley Gardens from 9.00am – 3.00pm.

As a club, members are well aware that they are custodians of cars that are part of This year the Club is celebra ng the 110th anniversary of the first running of the moveable cultural heritage of Australia. a Royce motorcar, which occurred on 1 April 1904. Sir Henry Royce was a celebrated engineer who passionately believed in taking something good “We enjoy using our cars and we enjoy the pleasure that others experience and making it be er. He once said “Small things make perfec on, but when they see these magnificently preserved examples of motor vehicle engineering excellence. Many of the cars in our Club have fascina ng perfec on is no small thing.” histories that are interwoven into the fabric of this na on’s history and we It is this kind of a tude and inspira on that has kept so many of the cars enjoy rela ng those and many other legends” said member Beverley manufactured by Rolls-Royce since 1904, s ll on the road today. In midSimpson.

2013 there was a gathering of Rolls-Royce Silver Ghosts in Europe to

There will also be a scenic drive on Friday 9 May 2014 from Pokolbin through to Morpeth where the cars will be on display from 11.00am – 2.00pm in the grounds of Closeburn Village on Morpeth Road.

Whenever the club holds an event such as this they always look to support a local charity or worthwhile cause and this year they will be fundraising for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

As part of that fundraising volunteers will be accep ng gold coin dona ons from any member of the public wishing to view the cars both at the Gardens and Morpeth.

The public are invited to spend some me at the Hunter Valley Gardens to enjoy the spectacle of some rare and wonderful motorcars on display and help support the work of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

Rolls-Royce Wraith

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M O R E TO D O I N and beyond...

Gourmands take note that on the 17th and 18th of May, Lovedale will once again be conƟnuing the tradiƟon of bringing endless delight to lovers of wine and food by hosƟng the 21st Annual, award-winning Lovedale Long Lunch.

Held amongst the picturesque vineyards of Lovedale, this annual event was started in 1994 to promote Lovedale as a premium wine producing area and tourist a rac on. Now in its 20th year, the Lovedale Long Lunch has done just that, a rac ng large and enthusias c crowds eager to savour the excellent food and wine from the area.

This years event on May 17 and 18 is expected to a ract more than 20,000 people to seven Lovedale wineries that include Allandale Winery, Tatler Wines, Gartelmann Wines, Wandin Valley Estate, Sal re Wines, Sandalyn Estate and Emmas Co age Vineyard.

The concept is as simple as it is pleasurable, the Lovedale Long Lunch is a progressive-type lunch involving seven bou que wineries and a selec on of the regions finest restaurants and live entertainment. Long Lunch-goers then get to wine and dine their way around the par cipa ng wineries over the weekend enjoying a glass of wine, gourmet food and fabulous music and art which add to the total indulgence of the senses.

Event organisers are predic ng this year’s event to be the finest yet, combining excitement with a fresh emphasis on being a sophis cated and stylish day out for the genuine food and wine lover.

As usual, it doesn’t ma er where you start or finish as ''Long Lunchers'' can design their own progressive lunch according to their tastes in food, wine, music and views.

Tickets for the Lovedale Long Lunch start from $65. Packages are available for Saturday and Sunday which include entry, ckets for main meals, dessert or cheese plates, a tas ng glass and wine tas ng tokens.

Packages can also be purchased from any of the par cipa ng wineries on the day. As an added bonus for Long Lunchers this year - the Saturday entry packages will include re-admission on Sunday (present your Saturday tas ng glass and wristband at any winery on Sunday to gain free entry), so patrons can gear up for an en re weekend of fine wine, gourmet food and live entertainment.

So, mark the weekend of May 17th and 18th in your diary for the finest food, wine and entertainment experience the Hunter has to offer. Bring your family and friends and make a day of it. The event begins at 10am and concludes 4pm on both days.

Visit www.lovedalelonglunch.com.au for informa on on the menus, wine, live entertainment or to purchase ckets.

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ESCAPADE

leads to chance discovery...

Over 30,000 years ago the land we now know as the Hunter Valley was inhabited by the Wonnarua tribe of Aboriginal Australians along with the Awabakal tribe to the south - an area we now know as the mid north coast and the Worimi tribe to the north, which includes eastern Port Stephens and Great Lakes regions of coastal NSW. Together these three tribes developed a trading route between the Sydney area and the Hunter (Coquun) Valley - exchanging goods and performing ceremonies along the way.

Captain Cook ignored the Hunter Valley on his travels along the Australian coast in the late 1700s and it was only when a Bri sh naval officer by the name of Lieutenant John Shortland, came upon the Hunter River by chance during a search for escaped convicts that the region was iden fied for its valuable source of mber to repair ships and coal to fuel the steamship trade coming out of Sydney.

However it was four years a er this first discovery and only when Sydney Cove started experiencing food, fuel and material shortages that an expedi on headed by Lieutenant Colonel Paterson was sent to the region to confirm Lieutenant John Shortland's findings. The region was named a er Governor John Hunter and a penal colony was soon established for the more difficult convicts of Sydney Cove who served their me cu ng mber and mining coal for Sydney Cove.

By the end of the decade, plan ngs had expanded from 200 acres to approximately 500 acres and by 1876 land planted with vine had exceeded 1800 acres.

From these humble beginnings, the Hunter Valley flourished, with several families establishing vineyards in the area. The Wilkinson, Tyrrell, Tulloch, Drayton and McGuigan families winemaking history can all be traced to the mid to late 19th century as can the vi cultural pursuits of Dr Henry Lindeman.

By the 1860s, plan ngs of vineyards began to move from the fer le alluvial plains along the Hunter River towards the foothills of the Brokenback range near Pokolbin and Rothbury (Lovedale) where many of the most well established and highly regarded vineyards of the Hunter can be found today.

A er World War I, many returning soldiers were given land grants in the Hunter Valley, but the Great Depression and devasta ng hail storms between 1929–30 caused many of these new land owners to abandon their vineyards. Some of the land was bought up by the larger and more established land owners at the me who would later become driving forces behind the Hunter Valley's wine industry.

The 1950s and 1960s saw consumer taste shi toward drier styles of wine. As a result the 1960's saw a drama c increase in the number of This led to the 1820 discovery and subsequent construc on of the first plan ngs of vine including red wine varietals and the reintroduc on of overland route from Windsor to Singleton - the Pu y Road which even Cabernet Sauvignon to the Hunter Valley. to this day remains as a short-cut for travelers from western Sydney to The year 1971, saw the first commercial bo ling of Chardonnay - an the Hunter Valley. event that sparked the beginning of the Australian Chardonnay craze.

What followed was the construc on of the Great North Road and the By 1976, plan ngs in the Hunter Valley had grown to exceed 10,000 first road linking Sydney and Newcastle - crossing the Hawkesbury acres and despite a small reduc on during the recession of the 1980s, River at Wiseman's Ferry. Built by convicts between 1826 & 1836, the Australian wine boom of the 1990s pushed plan ngs even further visitors can s ll see many of the original convict-built features when to over 11,000 acres. travelling en route to Wollombi.

Today the Hunter Valley remains Australia's oldest wine producing region and one of Australia's most recognisable and popular regions The convenience of road transport quickly opened up the Hunter for tourism with over 140 wineries in the Hunter, producing a wide Valley to new se lers, who found that the sandy banks of the river flats were suitable for many types of agriculture. With the arrival of range of wine. the free se lers agricultural and pastoral ac vi es rapidly grew to the For most of its history, including the early history of the Aboriginal point where it equaled coal mining and mber in importance. By early people who occupied the land at the me, the various industries 1820's approximately 20 acres of vineyards had been planted on the making up the Hunter Valley have been influenced by its close northern banks of the Hunter River between Maitland and Singleton proximately to Sydney. This is evident from the ancient Aboriginal by early winemaking pioneers such as George Wyndham, James King trade routes, the discovery of mber and coal which was followed and William Kelman. by the regions se lement and plan ngs in the 19th century - all of The first major plan ng in the Hunter Valley took place in the early which were driven by the trade network that linked the Hunter Valley 1830's when James Busby - an amateur vi culturist, returned to New to Sydney. Even today, the steady supply of consumers from Sydney s ll drive much of the Hunter Valley's wine industry and also provides South Wales a er travelling throughout Europe and South Africa, collec ng cu ngs from over 500 vineyards. Some of these cu ngs for much of the tourism to the region. were sent to the newly established Royal Botanical Gardens in Sydney and the rest planted at the family estate of Kirkton situated between the towns of Branxton and Singleton. It was these cu ngs which established the Hunter Valley’s claims to vi culture fame. thb

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THE RISE AND RISE OF THE….

Australia is very quickly catching up with America and the rest of the world in terms of cra brewing - with people becoming increasingly educated about beer and more aware of bou que producers, non-mainstream For some me the Hunter Blackboard editorial team have been brands and the different flavours in beer. In many ways, the beer market is inves ga ng and wri ng on the fast developing and rapidly growing cra following the same trend as most other food products, where people are beer movement and the shi in consumer demand to quality and variety in tending to focus on flavour first, the result being a move away from an industry which is be er known for its highly sophis cated and expensive industrial mainstream beer to premium bou que beers, including the hand -cra ed varie es. marke ng campaigns than its no ceable commitment to quality.

The Australian beer landscape con nues to change and today the amber Over the past few years, the beer industry has undergone a significant fluid has a far more sophis cated image, with beer lovers all over the world metamorphosis, largely driven by the cra beer revolu on and the experimen ng with new innova ve and interes ng varie es, from diverse increasing number of microbreweries fast emerging to sa sfy the beer places and even matching them to food. drinker’s thirst for new, innova ve and interes ng beers. The cra beer The Hunter Valley has been quick to follow this trend with two cra market is said to now represent about 10 per cent of the premium beer breweries already in existence. market in Australia and there are now thousands of unique and posi vely As the Hunter Valley's first microbrewery, the Hunter Beer Company brews elegant beers available, some even packaged a lot like sparkling wine and a unique range of hand cra ed beers onsite at their premises in Nulkaba, far be er value for money. with all beers brewed from 100% natural ingredients and no preserva ves Cra beer, the product of pint sized breweries seeking to reclaim taste and used. For the discerning and even adventurous beer lover, the Hunter Beer Company offers an array of mul -award winning beers - from the bold market share from the global beverage giants, is marketed to consumers American style Pale Ale, the dark German styled Bock, the ever popular full who are willing to experiment and appreciate a good story behind the strength Lager and the refreshing Kolsch to the pale, light flavoured Belgian label. More and more beer lovers throughout the country are turning Witbier. There is also a deliciously crisp Ginger Beer, low alcohol beers and toward full-flavored beers, especially India Pale Ales, seasonal beers and seasonal beers that vary on a regular basis.

Belgians and it is this divergence of flavours and styles that is the driving The increasing popularity of these hand cra ed beers brewed by the force behind its growing appeal.

Hunter Beer Company confirms that people are becoming increasingly educated about beer and the different flavours available to them. Visit the Breweries are being forced to adapt and experiment with new hops and Hunter Beer Company's spacious ''beer bar'' and see as well as experience beer flavours as they con nue to innovate with new beers and new styles first-hand just how a micro-brewery func ons - talk to Keith the brewer in an effort to keep customers returning for more. Retailers are also responding to this growing demand and are pu ng more cra beers onto and taste the wide range of beers on tap. Open 7 days a week and un l late on Fridays. their shelves which is driving demand even further.

Beer is part of the Australian culture and is going through a renaissance experienced by the wine industry 22 years ago.

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I know this great

LA BELLE FRANCE At Peppers Creek and Morpeth

From the moment you walk into this gorgeous store you are mesmerised by little place the selec on of unique tableware imported from France. The beau ful Provence collec on includes 100% chic co on tablecloths, servie es, aprons, oven gloves, bread baskets and plas c bag holders all of matching designs.

Their designs will inspire you with the dierent colours and mo fs of lemons, poppies, cicadas, olives, lavender and many others.

There are also beau ful Marat Avignon cushion covers to update your decor and others that incorporate the best known works of Monet. Also available for sale are interes ng objets d’art, French soaps and beauty products, French nned food such as foie gras, mustard and cassoulet as well as French umbrellas and paper servie es.

A er establishing their successful store in Morpeth, owners - husband and wife team, Dominique and Angela Wehrle decided to open a second La Belle France shop at Peppers Creek Village. Open 7 days 10am ~ 5pm. Phone: 418 665 328. For more informa on visit their website at www.labellefrance.com.au

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AUTUMN | WINTER 2014

Cessnock...Gateway to the Vineyards There’s Alot to Love about Lovedale

A HUNTER BLACKBOARD

Special

The Couples Guide to Wine Country The Grand Old Dame of the Hunter Image courtesy of Berenbell Vineyard Retreat

Gateway to the Vineyards Named a er Cessnock Castle in Ayrshire Scotland, and recently named on travel website TripAdvisor as the sixth best Australian des na on due to its proximity to its world-class vineyards, the town of Cessnock was originally developed as a private village on the road that is now known as the ‘’Convict Trail’’ – the original Sydney to Hunter Valley road built by 3,000 convicts.

Cessnock then became a major mining centre at the turn of the century, but wine and tourism soon became the major industries for the area. With the vineyards being so close to the town, Cessnock very quickly became recognised as the ‘’gateway’’ to the wine region and now also includes a number of fine hotels, motels and guesthouses as well as a number of restaurants, pubs and galleries. Visitors are also encouraged to visit the nearby local Hunter Beer Co. micro-brewery – renowned for its award winning selec on of cra beers.

Places to visit in or around Cessnock:

• Wollombi: Cessnock provides easy access to the historic town of Wollombi – which was se led in 1838 as a service centre for the local farming community as well as travellers. Today Wollombi displays a fine architectural heritage, a selec on of cafes and eateries, comfortable guesthouses and na onal parks with great bush walking trails, lookouts and ancient Aboriginal rock carvings.

• Cessnock Regional Art Gallery (CRAG): A must see for tourists to the Hunter Valley, Cessnock Regional Art Gallery showcases Hunter Valley ar sts and touring exhibi ons – adding a new dimension to the cultural life in the local area.

• Hunter Valley Zoo: Hunter Valley Zoo has a wide variety of animals including; monkeys, American Alligators, Tasmanian Devils, kangaroos, koalas, dingoes, rep les and birds. Feed the animals... hand feed kangaroos, wallabies, farmyard animals and some bird species as o en as you like! Daily shows allow you to pat a wombat, cuddle up to a koala, touch a rep le and watch the monkeys being fed. Great for kids!

• Hunter Valley Beer Co: Located at Po ers Hotel Brewery Resort in Nulkaba, the Hunter Beer Co is the Hunter's first micro-brewery and possibly one of the smallest in the country. Taste award winning beers, take a tour of the brewery, talk to the Brewers or simply relax and enjoy a tasty snack and one of their signature brews.

The Brokenback Ranges Much of the Hunter Valleys stories and of course its history have been played out in the lower Hunter Valley - an area that is now generally referred to as Hunter Valley Wine Country. It is also here that the majority of the Hunter Valley's most successful vineyards are located on the southern valley and foothills of the Brokenback Range which makes up a part of the Great Dividing Range - Australia's most substan al mountain range and the third longest land-based range in the world.

The Brokenback Range has provided a significant role in the history of the Hunter Valley. First as the ancient home to the Australian Aboriginal tribes many thousands of years ago, prior to white se lement and later as cover for bushrangers and convicts avoiding capture and a grim return to Sydney Cove and also as a barrier to explora on.

A er most of the early vineyards of the Hunter were first planted in the northeast sec on of the valley - along the fer le alluvial plains along the Hunter River, plan ngs began to move further south and west towards the foothills of the Brokenback Range near what is today known as the areas of Pokolbin and Rothbury. Here the mountains created a unique micro-climate for the vineyards which also thrived on the deep red volcanic soils.

Today the mountain range remains a permanent and ageless backdrop to wine country and the vineyards con nue to produce world-class wines from its rich soils. But today the mountain range also serves as a tourist a rac on for those wan ng to explore its trails and capture its magnificent imagery in pain ngs and countless photographs.

No longer a home to ancient tribes or a barrier to explora on but instead words borrowed to name guesthouses and resorts and to describe the wines in which soils they grew. For the Hunter Valley wine country, the Brokenback range is a welcome and ever present sen nel to progress and prosperity.

Backdrop to Wine Country

Lovedale

THERE’S ALOT TO LOVE ABOUT BeauƟful and just perfect for that special weekend With a vast selec on of bou que accommoda on away, Lovedale is one of those places that once you to choose from and a wine and food trail consis ng of 12 cellar doors, 10 restaurants and cafes, a visit, you will soon be planning your return. chocolate factory, dessert bar, a smokehouse and O en referred to as the ''Heart of the Hunter'', Lovedale is renown not just for its family owned and gourmet pantry as well as an olive mill and sales centre, Lovedale offers the perfect couples operated cellar doors and award winning wines but also for an en re lifestyle that has sprung up around weekend away and the ideal opportunity to experience some of the best wine and food the it, which includes a wide selec on of quality Hunter has to offer. bou que accommoda on, restaurants, galleries, gourmet foods, golf courses, adventure ac vi es, horse-riding and day spas.

Of course Lovedale is also well known for the annual Lovedale Long Lunch. Now in its 21st year, this popular wine, food and music fes val a racts up to 20,000 people over the two day event,

When you have had your fill of the local wine, you can visit a few local galleries with Emmas Co age Vineyard Gallery and Ogishi Cra Centre being within close proximity of each other.

Alterna vely pamper yourself with a spa treatment at Reflec ons Day Spa at Adina Vineyard or the Tea Tree Spa at Crowne Plaza. Tempt yourself with a As one of the oldest wine producing regions of the Hunter Valley, the history of Lovedale dates back to visit to the Hunter Valley Chocolate Factory or Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar for a pure the 1800s when local wheat, dairy and general produce farmers turned their hand to grape growing. chocolate indulgence. If you are feeling a li le more At this me there were significant land grants along adventurous go for an early morning balloon flight, horse-riding at Hunter Valley Horse-riding & Black Creek. This area was par cularly suitable for vineyards and was also favoured for its proximity to Adventures on Talga Rd or a play a round of golf at Hunter Valley Golf & Country Club. For more the 'Old North Road' to Windsor. informa on visit www.lovedalehuntervalley.com.au.

he heart of the Hunter ….the heart of the Hunter …

Wilderness Road, Lovedale

Sweet Treats If your idea of an indulgent weekend involves delicious chocolates, desserts and other such treats then a visit to Lovedale's two most popular sweet spots. Is a must!

Sabor in the Hunter is a dessert bar located in Lovedale, offering an extensive range of classical and seasonal desserts paired with wines, dessert wines, Ports and liqueurs from the Hunter region. Loved by locals and visitors alike, Sabor is famous for its Portuguese Chocolate Mousse made from a 60 year old family recipe. Sabor also offer a gluten free range, light meals, Barista made coffee and a selec on of teas to enjoy on their informal alfresco pa o or to take away and savour in your hotel or home. Open Friday to Sunday (and Monday on public holidays) - 319 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale.

The Hunter Valley Chocolate Company has 4 shops in the Hunter Valley with their factory shop and retail outlet located in Lovedale. Here visitors can watch Peter the chocola er preparing their range of mouth-watering chocolates for the company’s stores using the finest Belgian couverture chocolate, together with Australian dried fruit and nuts. A dis lled pure fruit oil is used for infusion and results in a subtle but true flavour of the fruit. Also available is freshly made fudge.

Open 7 days - 820 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale (Wilderness Rd end).

Just one bite .... and you will want to keep coming back for more!

….the heart of the Hunter….the heart of the Hunter

Lovedale Road, Lovedale

Dining Out With a range of restaurants and cafes offering a variety of different styles and types of dining, Lovedale is fast becoming a favourite des na on amongst food lovers. Some of the most popular and highly recommended restaurants and cafes include:

Emersons Cafe & Restaurant - located at Adina Vineyard The mul -award winning Emersons Cafe & Restaurant provides Spanish style tapas for lunch and in mate contemporary modern Australian cuisine during the evenings. Diners also have the op on of an eight course degusta on menu on Friday and Saturday nights. Breakfast is also served on weekends from 8am to 11am. Lunch is served Wed to Sat from 11am to 3pm and Dinner Thur to Sun from 6pm to 10pm. Contact: 4930 7029 or for more informa on and menus go to www.emersonsrestaurant.com.au

The Deck Cafe Lovedale - located at Gartelmann Wines Providing a diverse and deligh ul menu complimented by Gartelmann wines and Paizza Doro coffee, this local favourite is situated alongside the Gartelmann Wines cellar door where diners get to sit inside the cafe or dine alfresco on the spacious deck overlooking the picturesque dam.

Open 7 days for breakfast and lunch - Mon to Fri from 8.30am to 3.30pm and Sat and Sun 8am to 3.30pm. Contact 4930 9007 or for more informa on and menus go to www.deckcafelovedale.com.au

Hot Air Ballooning Few would argue that an early morning view from the basket of a hot-air balloon is a wonderful way to experience Hunter Valley wine country's breathtaking views and explore the landscape from the air.

Seen from the ground, the scenery in wine country is among the most beau ful in the world. From the sky, the countryside is even more unforge able … one can only imagine what different splendour each of the four seasons would present in the form of a new and varied landscape that could only be more deeply appreciated from above.

Lovedale’s Balloon Alo conduct flights daily, star ng early in the morning and taking around three to four hours including me to inflate and deflate the balloon. Don't worry, though, you won't just be si ng around during those parts of the adventure with passengers encouraged to help with the infla ng and defla ng process The ascent is o en so gentle that passengers o en do not realise they have le the ground un l they find themselves soaring effortlessly over fields and trees. Since hot air balloons don't have a steering mechanism, you literally go where the wind takes you and you don't feel like you're up that high, because the panoramic view alters your perspec ve.

The landing is o en as gentle as the launch and once back on firm ground you get to relax and over a champagne breakfast.

Balloon Alo offers sunrise balloon adventures with gourmet champagne breakfasts, proposal packages and exclusive VIP flights for two which would be just perfect for that special occasion.

For the simplest and easiest way for you, your family, and friends to create a life me memory - go ballooning! For more informa on visit www.balloonaloŌ.com or phone 1300 723 279 or drop in at their offices just off Lovedale Rd at Lovedale.

he heart of the Hunter ….the heart of the Hunter …

Talga Road, Lovedale

Horseriding It may have started as a novelty, but the idea of taking a leisurely ramble in wine country on horseback has a roman c appeal that's catching on.

Perhaps it has something to do with being at one with nature, or the exuberance and excitement that we feel when riding - the wind blowing against your face waking up forgo en feelings of life and living.

Hunter Valley Horse Riding and Adventures on Talga Rd in Lovedale offer many different ways to take in the area on their 300 acre property. Ride the unique and beau ful Molly Morgan Range and experience the spectacular views of the Hunter Valley and as far north as Barrington Tops.

Horse rides are available every day for both experienced or beginner riders and riders can choose whether they want to go on a trail ride with a dedicated and qualified guide, arrange a personalised ride for that special occasion, or take a sunset ride which is perfect for seeing the local wildlife in their environment.

An a ernoon spent riding the ranges, followed by a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant could well be marvelous memory in the making.

To ride with Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures Phone: 4930 7111

….the heart of the Hunter….the heart of the Hunter

PEPPERS CONVENT

The Grand Old Dame of the Hunter Valley

Set amidst the beau ful gardens and vineyards of Australia's world famous Hunter Valley Wine Country, Peppers Convent is a true roman c retreat offering in mate accommoda on ideal for a getaway and those wishing to truly indulge.

Built in 1909 in the town of Coonamble - on the central-western plains of New South Wales, Peppers Convent was once home to the Brigidine Order of nuns.

In 1990, it was carefully divided into four sec ons and transported 600km east to the Hunter Valley where it was rebuilt as faithfully as possible to the point of having new mber made in the same mill in Coonamble where the original mber was cut. All the pressed metal interiors are original and many of the walls have since been removed to enlarge the rooms, yielding more elegant and luxurious suites.

Peppers Convent's Chapel was in Room 1, now a suite. Rooms 6 and 7 also suites, were ini ally the music rooms and kindergarten. The parlours are the office and the dining room. The library is now Room 4. The boarder's sec on included rooms 14 to 16 each with their own verandah. The nuns' sec on was the remainder of the top floor.

Many of the nuns have since visited the newly restored Peppers Convent and have blissfully commented on how their old home has been returned to its original form. The Nuns demonstrated their apprecia on by returning the original founda on stone, stained glass windows and etched wooden doors, which they reserved when they moved into their new home at Coonamble.

The décor of the rooms has been described as having a French Baroque flavour, illuminated through the constant symbol of cherubs, angels, gilt and toils du jour window furnishings. The white cane furniture alludes to sultry a ernoons spent relaxing in the high ceiling airy rooms while the mosquito nets add a touch of romance and are reminiscent of hot Coonamble nights without screened windows.

The Pepper Tree Estate includes the Peppers Convent and only a short stroll away is the renowned Robert's Circa 1876 Restaurant, which houses the original 1876 Pepper Tree Co age, and Pepper Tree Winery and Tas ng Barn. With over 100 regional wineries and endless recrea on op ons Peppers Convent is ideally situated to make the most of your stay in the region.

Historic Roberts Circa 1876 Restaurant

The The diversity of the Hunter Valley ensures that there is something for everyone whether you are a lover of wine, food, art, adventure, nature, shopping, history or simply wish to be pampered and indulged. Either way, you are guaranteed to have the time of your life and with it some lasting memories.

In Autumn, the region is a rich tapestry of warm orange and golden brown colours with the vineyards now completely harvested for this years vintage and the vines losing their lush foliage in preparation for the Winter dormancy. Truly a photographer’s delight. Walk, drive or cycle through sweeping natural landscapes in the countryside and quiet country lanes - whilst enjoying some of the local produce along the way. From premium wine tastings, to local hand made cheeses, hand made cookies, olives, oils, apple ciders and chocolates and even boutique hand crafted beers, vodka and schnapps.

There are few settings more beautiful and more romantic than the Hunter Valley. Vineyards, mountains and picturesque valleys combine to form the perfect backdrop for any romantic weekend away or special occasion whether it be a wedding, honeymoon, anniversary or just time spent together.

Think boutique accommodation, vineyards, bird filled waterways and dams, quaint historic villages and towns, rugged mountains, lush gardens and parks with picnic areas, candle-lit dinners and delicious world class wine - that's the romance of the Hunter Valley. But true romance is all about doing something special or unexpected with or for that someone special, even though it is not expected.

For those who like a gentle view of nature there are numerous walking tracks and bush trails through national parks or for something more stimulating meander through 25 acres of Hunter Valley Gardens and enjoy the sensational sights, colours, and fragrances of the ten stunning feature gardens. If you are feeling more adventurous take an early morning or afternoon horse-ride through over 300 acres of natural bush-land with glorious views of the Watagans, Brokenback Range and even Barrington Tops.

Ballooning is definitely one for the romantics at heart, so if you are thinking of proposing or declaring your love, then this is the way to do it. A breathtaking early morning view whilst cuddling up in a hot-air balloon is a wondrous way to view the Hunter Valley vineyards and mountain ranges. Ascending in a hot air balloon and cruising over the picturesque landscape of the lower Hunter Valley vineyards is for many a rarely presented thrill of a lifetime and the most amazing way to create a lifetime memory.

Guide to the Hunter Valley Today, the Hunter Valley is as much about food as it about wine and the region has a strong food and wine culture that is reflected in its world class restaurants, abundant fresh regional produce and gourmet food products and full range of wine styles and varietals - one to match every meal.

The tastes of the Hunter Valley are as diverse as they are delicious and there's something about eating outdoors that makes the conversation flow more naturally and the food taste extra delicious. With Autumn Summer temperatures generally sitting in the low 20's, we should be in for some warm days and very mild evenings, just perfect for the romance of fireside dining. There is no shortage of fabulous restaurants and cafes offering dining options in the Hunter Valley, so why not head out for a long lunch or early dinner under the stars and be romanced by the local countryside, vineyard and mountain views as you dine Hunter style.

Wine and romance go hand in hand and the Hunter Valley is not only the oldest wine growing region in Australia, but is also renown for having some of the best With traditional procedures and the finest quality ingredients, local Hunter Valley winemakers producing some of the finest wines in the world. breweries and distilleries take the art of creating a fine drop to a completely new level. The Hunter Beer Co. in Nulkaba almost always have a unique seasonal So put your taste buds to the test with wine tastings at any of the 140 or so cellar beer on tap to tempt just about every palate and the Hunter Distillery on Broke doors in the Hunter Valley and taste the difference. Try the distinctive and superb wine styles of Hunter Valley Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz that simply cannot be road has just released their light and dark Honey Vodkas using centuries old recipes - just in time for the colder weather. replicated in any other wine region as well as the many other varietals grown in the Hunter. If you have an interest in learning more about wine and wine appreciation At the end and of your busy and adventure filled day - take the time out for then an organised tour to some of the most renown wineries in the Hunter Valley is yourself or with your loved one and indulge in some personal ''you time'' with a just what you need and without the concerns of drinking and driving. well deserved visit to the day spa, or getting a treatment at a beauty salon, or smelling some gorgeous essential oils. A trip to the day spa can be a truly holistic If you still have room after sampling all the cheese, chocolate, olives and other gourmet goodies the local producers have to offer, why not visit some of the boutique experience and the benefits of a relaxation massage can last for several days . producers of craft beers, ciders, vodkas, gin and schnapps?

No matter how you plan your romantic Hunter Valley, just don't forget to pack your camera, so you can capture the magic!

Best of the Hunter in a

Country Taste some of the regions finest wines... Savour fine or casual dining…

Match wine and food…Take a wine and cheese tasting course… Taste superb ciders and taste some of the best schnapps, vodka’s and gins in the country! Walk, cycle or drive – the choice is yours. Either way you end your country mile having tasted the Hunters finest!

Oakvale One of the oldest working wineries in the Hunter Valley with a history going over 120 years. Taste unique and distinctive premium handcrafted wines in the modern cellar door and view the state of the art winery in action.

Open 7 days. Phone: 4998 7088 www.oakvalewines.com.au

Glandore Estate Renowned for producing wines of great character, regionality and style from the traditional varieties known in the Hunter Valley, selected from only the very best parcels of fruit as well as new and exciting varieties to the Hunter Valley such as the superb Tempranillo.

Open 7 days Phone: 4998 7140 www.glandorewines.com De Iuliis Wines One the Hunter Valley’s leading producers and most recognised names in the Australian wine industry! Regionality and a modern approach to winemaking ensures De Iuliis Wines produce a unique yet highly identifiable wine with a sense of time and place.

Open 7 days. Phone: 4993 8000 www.dewine.com.au

Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen Casual dining at its best! Wine, beer and food tasting platters - wine and cheese tastings and tutorials.

Euro Deli Open 7 days from 9am – 5pm with lunch served from 12pm - 3pm.

Breakfast Saturdays and Sundays from 8am.

Phone: 4998 6699 www.twofatblokes.com.au/kitchen/ Leogate Estate Elegant, stylish and welcoming. Taste award winning wines produced from their onsite vineyards. Complete the experience at Villa du Pays Restaurant offering modern French inspired cuisine - lunch and dinner.

Cellar Door Open 7 days 10am – 5pm.

Lunch: Fri – Mon 12pm until 2:30pm.

Dinner: Thurs – Mon 6pm until 9:00pm.

Phone: 49987499 www.leogate.com.au Hunter Distillery An amazing and unique experience and the first 100% organic distillery in Australia. Taste a range of premium Organic Vodkas, Schnapps, Gin and Liqueurs and take a guided tour of the distillery production area.

Open 7 days. Phone: 4998 6737 www.hunterdistillery.com.au

Thomas Allen Wines Wines without compromise! The regions newest cellar door with stunning views and limited quantities of exceptional, flavour intense, high quality wines.

Open 7 days. Phone: 4998 7250 www.thomasallenwines.com.au

It’s all so close.

Walk, cycle or drive...

For a great day out!

Warm hospitality, a lo love ove of life, wo world orl rld d class wine, fine food, history, culture and a true Hunter Hun nter Valley experience - that pretty much sums up the collective efforts o of 7 local businesses located on Broke Road in Pokolbin.

expressive sive of the Hunter Valley and in include Shiraz, Merlot, Sangiovese, Semillon, Chardonnay and Verdelho. The vast array of awards and great reviews bestowed upon them over the year is a clear testament to their wine making success. This James Halliday 5 star rated winery is a true wine Within a relatively short distance of just 1.2 kilometres you can enjoy some tasting experience and well worth a visit. of Australia's finest wines, vodkas and schnapps, a delicious selection of Also located at De Iuliss Wines is Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen - one of gourmet produce and your choice of fine or casual dining all within easy the most enjoyable casual dining experiences around and one set to rival walking or cycling distance of each other. any European culinary experience. Enjoy a coffee and a snack or a casual Not only does this unique section of Broke road provide a wonderful lunch from the menu choosing from a generous selection of light meals example of some of the regions finest wine and food, but it also represents and more formal dishes at very reasonable prices. Browse through the some of the most awarded wines in the region as well as a long history of Euro - deli stocked with an amazing range of local, Australian and winemaking with some vineyards dating back to the 1860's and 1890's.

International cheeses as well as a large range of delicious foods such as Start your trail of discovery by travelling west along Broke road, past prosciutto & Italian salami, Slovenian (kransky) sausages, smoked trout Tyrell’s Wines until you arrive at the first of this amazing collection PG and freshly baked bread, fresh pasta & pasta sauces. Book a wine and Hunter Valley experiences. cheese matching experience and eat your way through nine local, Not only is Thomas "MMFO Wines the newest cellar door in the Hunter Valley, but it is without a doubt one of the prettiest estates - situated up high with views that stretch for miles over Pokolbin and toward the Brokenback Mountains. Relax in the comfortable tasting room or outside on the terrace sampling their range of exceptional Hunter Valley Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz - all made from grapes grown on the estate. With the ethos ‘’wines without compromise’’ Thomas Allen is certainly true to their words.

Australian & International cheeses matched with nine carefully selected wines. Picnic baskets are also available.

Directly across the road is the stylish and elegant Leogate Estate and Villa du Pays Restaurant and the perfect place to relax and taste multiple award winning wines made from this James Halliday 5 star rated winery.

The vineyard has 50 hectares under vine, with Chardonnay, Semillon, Shiraz, Verdelho and Tempranillo being the main varieties. Villa du Pays restaurant, situated adjacent to the cellar door, is one of the most sought after dining venues in the Hunter and it's easy to see why. With seating for 40 diners inside the restaurant and a further 60 outside on the terrace overlooking the vineyard, it's the perfect setting for dining al-fresco or that long lazy lunch. The menu includes an impressive selection of modern French inspired cuisine as well as a selection of dry-aged Australian Black Angus steaks sourced from the owners’ cattle property in Northern NSW.

to 1865 when a family of Irish immigrants moved to the Hunter Valley and established Glandore Estate, named after the town they had come from in Ireland. In the late 1950's the property became part of the Brokenback Estate planted by Rothbury. In 2004 the property once again changed ownership and the name reverted back to the original name of Glandore Estate. Today, Glandore Estate is recognised for producing wines of great character, regionality and style from the traditional varieties of Semillon, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Merlot and Moscato as well as the newer varieties such as Tempranillo and Savagnin.

All wines are hand made on site with quality rather than quantity being the main focus.

Next door is one of the oldest working wineries in Australia and also one of the most iconic wine brands of the Hunter Valley. With its 120 year history in winemaking Oakvale Wines matches contemporary design with historical charm. Their range of Wines include the classic varieties of Semillon, Chardonnay, Shiraz and Verdelho as well as Pinot Noir, Rose and Semillon Sauvignon Blanc - all of which are available for tasting in the refurbished and tastefully designed cellar door with a large plate-glass Just further up you will find the Hunter Distillery - one of the viewing window into the modern, state-of-the-art winery. A trip to Hunter Valley's most fascinating experiences and the first 100% Oakvale is an experience in itself and an opportunity to be part of history organic distillery in Australia and in fact the only organic distillery in in its remaking. Visit the 1893 slab hut that was once home to the the southern hemisphere. Try their unique range of premium Organic Vodkas, Schnapps, Gin and Liqueurs tasted from test tubes and even take pioneering Elliott family. While your are there ask about the Nomblot Egg fermenters! Also, try Oakvale's delicious sparkling ciders made with 100% a guided tour of the distillery production area. Taste their new light and dark Honey Vodka from centuries old recipes. They also make great gifts to Australian fruit, hand-picked and basket pressed. take home with you.

Directly opposite is Glandore Estate - a property with a history dating back

Whether you walk, cycle or drive, your time spent at this end of Broke A short trip up the road will bring you to one of the Hunter Valley's leading road will be a delightful voyage of discovery that you will want to wine producers, De Iuliis Wines - a family run boutique winery that prides repeat again and again. itself on their range of award winning, limited edition wines that are truly

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THE HUNTER VALLEY

Merlot

Merlot is most famous in its homeland of Bordeaux in France where it is o en used to produce some of the world's most famous and most expensive wines and is renowned for its wonderfully fruity, rounded, even fleshy character.

In Australia it is considered to be one of the most important red grape varie es ‐ coming in 3rd a er Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon with Australia producing in excess of 90K tonnes of Merlot annually. The popularity of Merlot has soared over the last decade with grape growing regions experiencing a significant increase in plan ngs and produc on. Most Australian Merlot is blended with Cabernet Sauvignon.

Merlot’s popularity is due to the fact that it is so er, frui er, and earlier‐ maturing than cabernet sauvignon, yet displays many of the same flavours – cherry, currant, plums and raspberries along with mint and tobacco. Tannin levels also tend to be lower than other red grape varie es and the skin is a deep colour. Merlots also possess a rich and ample so ness that many Cabernets lack.

Merlot blends very well and is also highly sought a er straight varietal.

Although enjoyable as a varietal wine, it is most successful when blended with cabernet sauvignon ‐ contribu ng to the depth of flavour and ability to age that merlot lacks. Merlot also has the ability to so en the severe and tough nature of a young Cabernet.

Merlot is grown in just about every region of Australia, only shying away from the coldest of wine growing regions and can tolerate and even thrive in poor condi ons including bad quality or moist soils. The Hunter wine region has extensive plan ngs of Merlot and the summer heat is considered to provide the ideal growing condi ons for this versa le grape variety. In recent years Hunter Valley Merlot has experienced a surge in popularity and is o en considered to be more robust and fleshy than other well regarded varie es with a rich bouquet delivering one of the most pleasurable wine experiences.

When it comes to food matching, Merlot is considered to be a well‐balanced, medium‐bodied wine that does not have any complex characteris cs, such as chewy tannins or high acids which might clash with many recipes. In fact one of the best quali es about Merlot is its ability to match well with all different types of food including Italian‐style, red sauced pastas or even salads and is a perfect wine with Winter beef stews and roasts. The agile sweet fruit characters of some Merlots are best to match with roasted meats or Mediterranean vegetables that compliment the variety. For cheese, pate or game, try a Cabernet Merlot blend, where you can enjoy all the supple sweet fruit characters of Merlot, enhanced with some acidity and tannin from the Cabernet. Light bodied Merlots can go well with shellfish like prawns or scallops and is a fine wine to enjoy on its own.

PICK OF THE CROP WYNWOOD ESTATE | GREY GUM MERLOT 2013 Fermenta on occurred in a tradi onal open fermenter, during which me the ferment was rou nely ‘pumped – over’ to enhance flavour and tannin extrac on. The wine then received 9 months matura on in French oak barriques, 30% of which were new. This has resulted in a wine with li ed berry fruit and integrated oak characters. These flavours persist on the palate and are supported by fruit sweetness and fine tannins giving the palate length and persistence.

Food match: Enjoy with pork or lamb dishes.

Cellaring: With careful cellaring this wine will con nue to develop over the next 5 years.

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BEHIND THE

May is typically the beginning of pruning ‐ when each vineyard is pruned to establish the right amount and quality of wood for the coming year.

Pruning removes the woody growth of the past season and sets the vine up for the coming cycle to begin. Even at this stage the yield is being established as the number of shoots are set in the pruning phase.

Here are some of the latest happenings on the local Wine & Beer Scene.

The Lovedale Long Lunch is celebra ng its 21st anniversary this year with this annual wine and food fes val to be held on the weekend of 17th and 18th of May . This years event is set to a ract over 20,000 people to seven wineries located on the Lovedale wine trail for two days of wining, dining and entertainment.

Hunter Valley Legends and Wine Awards Dinner: This years annual event to be held on Thursday 29th May will once again announce this year’s winners in each coveted category, including ‘Winemaker of the Year’, ‘Rising Star of the Year’, ‘Vi culturist of the Year’, and ‘Cellar Door of the Year’.

A Pleasing 2014 Vintage. Winemakers con nue to be thrilled with this years vintage ‐ claiming it as the ''best in over 100 years''. A combina on of the dry 2013 winter followed by heavy rains in November and lots of sunshine in December and January brought on an earlier than normal harvest but with fruit at op mal fruit ripeness and concentra on of flavours.

Macquariedale Annual Blues & Burgers Lunch is to be held on Saturday 24th of May this year. This annual event is arranged by Macquariedale Organic Wines to celebrate their grape, olive and garlic harvest they received for that season.

Krinklewood's Annual Biodynamic Workshop to be held at Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard in Broke on Saturday 24 May 2014 focuses on how to bring fer lity and balance to the soil, grow healthier plants and healthier produce. Sharing a wealth of knowledge and experience on biodynamics, the event will be led by Hamish Mackay who has 35 years experience and John Priestley who is 3rd genera on organic farmer and 50 years experience in Biodynamics. Contact: Carla Windrim at carla@krinklewood.com Hunter voted Australia's best food and wine region. The Hunter Valley has been chosen as Australia’s best food & wine region in the 2014 Gold List Awards, the only awards especially for the luxury sector in Australia.

For a comprehensive list of local wineries, top drops and food and wine trail maps for each of the 5 key wine growing areas ‐ see the latest issue of Wine & Dine Hunter Valley.

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MAY 2014 | 35

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Whites tend to taste be er when cooled because the colder temperature tones down the residual sugar ‐ making the wine taste refreshing and crisp. Be careful not to make the wine too cold as it will suppress the wines flavours, fruit and aromas. On the other hand, red wines contain a higher level of natural tannin and acidity which when cooled will make the wine taste harsh and even bi er.

As a very general rule, red wines are served at cooler room temperatures (10‐18 °C) while white wines are best served chilled (7‐10 °C) and rosé wines (7‐13 °C).

thb 36 | MAY 2014

Why are white wines served cooler than red wines?

WHAT’S NEW IN FOOD

May is a great me to visit the Hunter Valley with most restaurants working to their new Autumn menus and the milder temperatures making a late morning breakfast or brunch a temp ng op on.

Alterna vely take advantage of the cooler a ernoons and evenings and dine al‐fresco.

Here are some of the latest happenings on the local Food Scene.

Farm Gate at Roberts Circa 1876 ‐ Execu ve Chef George Francisco invites you to wander through their Market Garden ‐ picking fruit, vegetables and edible flowers with your own hands. Open weekends 12.00am to 2.00pm. Also selling jams, honey, muesli and other hand‐ made products. Halls Rd Pokolbin ‐ Ph: 4998 4998 Learn To Cook Spanish Paella: Learn how to cook authen c Spanish Paella, Super tasty Churros and of course Sangria at the Calais Estate Barrel Room with Ma Dillow ‐ owner and chef of The Verandah Restaurant. Cost $90 per person.

Dates for 2014 are: 1st June; 8th June; 15th June; 22nd June; 29th June; 21st September. Ph: 4998 7231 New Cafe and General Store for Lovedale: Paul and Jane Brazier have opened their new Lovedale Store & Cafe on Lovedale road ‐ Lovedale, serving coffee, snacks, light lunches and a range of general produce ‐ specialising in local and organic produce.

Fireside Sundays at Twine Restaurant: Put a li le spark in your Sunday with Fireside Sundays at Twine Restaurant and celebrate ''SPANISH Cuisine'' throughout May. Sunday night fireside dining is about cooking over an open fire to create a unique casual dining experience. It starts with a house made mezze plate followed by the fireside dinner and a tantalizing dessert. Every Sunday at Twine Restaurant from 5:30pm last bookings 7:30pm. Cost: $49 pp (kids under 12 eat free). Ph: 4998 7449 Locals Night at The Verandah Restaurant is on Sunday the 4th May with the theme ‘’Spanish Night’’. The evening starts at 6:30pm with complimentary canapes and bubbles, followed by a 5 coarse Tapas Style degusta on. $50 per person BYO (no corkage). Ph: 4998 7231 For a comprehensive list of local restaurants, dining reviews and food and wine trail maps for each of the 5 key wine growing areas ‐ see the latest issue of Wine & Dine in the Hunter.

MAY 2014 | 37

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FOCUS ON

BRYAN ANTON HEAD CHEF | THE VERANDAH RESTAURANT

Bryan started his career as a Chef at the age of 16 under a local well respected Chef Rod Bright in his home town of Lithgow located in the Blue Mountains where he worked for two years picking up local cooking awards along with a desire to strive for perfec on.

This led him to the central west dining scene of Bathurst where in 2008, he took up the opportunity to lead the kitchen team in the opening of the Hub Esperro Bar and Eatery where his talents really started to shine. In three years at the Hub he assisted in winning countless awards including Central West Finalist Best New Restaurant Savour award in 2008 and the Central West Best Cafe Restaurant Savour award in 2009 & 2010.

In 2011 all his hard work paid off by winning the Best Country Cafe of NSW Savour award which took the Hub to the na onal finals of Australia where they were awarded the Best Breakfast Award in the whole of Australia Savour.

Feeling restless and with a desire to learn more, Bryan le the Hub in 2012 with the desire to work under some of Australia's leading chefs. He moved his family to the Hunter Valley and in 2013 was offered the opportunity to be Head Chef at The Verandah Restaurant working under Ma Dillow. Bryan jumped at the opportunity and is cooking up a storm and cemen ng his place in the Hunter Valley where he hopes to one day open his own restaurant or cafe using his knowledge of food and the hospitality industry .

When not in the kitchen, Bryan can be found at home with his wife gardening or playing with his three children in the pool or perhaps having a game of poker (which he rarely wins) with the boys from the restaurant.

His words of advice are: “Do something you love and all good things will happen”

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june

JUNE MARKETS | HUNTER VALLEY WINE COUNTRY WOLLOMBI QUEENS BIRTHDAY MARKETS | MONDAY 9TH JUNE Visit historic Wollombi on the holiday Monday for this great market of over 100 stalls, including local produce and cra s, plants, clothes, tools, bric‐a‐ brac and much more. This market a racts thousands of visitors to the beau ful countryside of the Wollombi Valley, which boasts a wealth of ac vi es, accommoda on and a rac ons, such as bou que wineries, superb natural beauty, and a rich history.

HANDMADE IN THE HUNTER MARKETS | SATURDAY JUNE 14TH AND 28TH Everything at these popular markets is hand‐made by the person selling it— making it the most unique markets held in wine country. Generally held most Saturdays (and the occasional Sunday) at Kevin Sobels Wines. Visit the facebook page for stall and weather info.

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SACRED TREE MARKETS | SUNDAY JUNE 15TH Boasting over 100 stalls, these markets are the fastest growing in the valley.

The markets are held at the Old St Brigids School Grounds on the corner of Station Street & the New England Hwy at Branxton. For further information visit www.sacredtreemarkets.com.au.

1ST—30TH JUNE | HUNTER VALLEY WINE & FOOD MONTH Hunter Valley Wine & Food Month is a month‐long celebra on of the region’s unique culture of fine wine and food. Throughout the month of June, visitors can take part in a series of in mate themed ac vi es that are sure to delight and inspire. The Winter Warmer Series will have guests cosying up by the fire for supreme indulgences while the Winemaker’s Table Series will allow dining up close and personal with iconic Hunter Valley winemakers and chefs. The Edible Experience will have guests crea ng their own magic in the kitchen and interac ng with some of the best gastronomic names using delicious local produce.

And of course, no trip to the Hunter Valley would be complete without a visit to a local winery and sampling a few of the world‐class wines from Australia's most historic family wine region. For more informa on visit www.winecountry.com.au

EVERY SATURDAY IN JUNE | PAELLA CLASSES at Calais Estate Barrel Room/The Verandah Restaurant Learn how to cook Spanish Paella and tasty Churritos in a hands‐on cooking lesson in the Calais Estate Barrel Room with Chef and Owner of The Verandah Restaurant, Ma Dillow.

Enjoy a menu of Spanish Iberico Jamon with fresh baked Spanish bread, served with Calais Estate in house made Sparkling Wine. Spanish Paella, served with Sangria. Spanish Churros with chocolate dipping sauce, served with Dessert wine. The cost is $90 per person—for more informa on visit www.verandahrestaurant.com.au.

28TH JUNE— 13TH JULY| SNOW TIME IN THE GARDEN at Hunter Valley Gardens Chill out these school holidays and enjoy ice ska ng on the 14 x 35 metre Real Ice Ska ng Rink.

Join in other Snow Time fun including a 25 metre Ice Toboggan and play in the man made snow!

There will be lots of fun for the whole family with games, hearty food, Husky dogs and warm beverages. Plus see the amazing ice sculptor carve something incredible on the weekends. Check the website closer to the date for more informa on and a full program. This is a day and night event running from 9.00am – 9.00pm every day. For more informa on visit www.hvg.com.au.

6TH—8TH JUNE | MERRIWA FESTIVAL OF THE FLEECES 2014

1ST JUNE | JAMES BLUNT at the CIVIC THEATRE NEWCASTLE

This annual event is held to commemorate the area’s involvement with the Australian Wool Industry. The feature event is the Running of the Sheep, where over 1500 sheep wearing Red Socks lead the parade down the main street of Merriwa.

James Blunt shot to fame in 2006 with the smash singles 'You're Beau ful' & 'Goodbye My Lover' from his pla num selling album 'Back to Bedlam', one of the UK's best‐selling albums of the 2000's.

With an opening night of entertainment on the Friday, events are held mainly on the Saturday from 8am with a street parade, sheep shearing, yarn spinning, sheep yard dog trials, quil ng exhibi ons, Circus West, Sparkles the Clown, the Croc Stars, My Pet Dinosaur, amusement rides, and over 70 street stalls. Saturday finishes with a spectacular fireworks display from 6pm.The event started in 1990 and now a racts over 4,000 visitors to the town.

For fourth studio album Moon Landing, Blunt wanted to go back to sounding... like himself. “I was playing a lot of ukulele ‐ mainly because it makes me look bigger,” says James.

Bringing a full band with him for the tour and renowned for his charm and grace on stage, Australian audiences will surely be cap vated when he returns for his first visit since 2011, playing songs from his highly an cipated new album as well as a collec on of hits. For more informa on visit ww.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

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LET’S PARTY! Annual Wine Country Festivals and Events If you love wine and food then there is no be er place to be than the Hunter Valley ‐ home of Australia's wine story and now the food and wine capital of Australia.

The Maitland Aroma Fes val (16th & 17th August 2014): The Maitland Aroma Fes val is a coffee, chocolate and fine food affair held in the Maitland Heritage Mall. Ward off the winter chill with the best local coffee roasters; a delectable range of chocolates and mouth watering desserts; Hunter wineries offering tas ngs of the finest dessert wines, for fied wines and gutsy reds and a wide range of local cuisine and fresh produce stalls with all sorts of tasty morsels on offer. For more informaƟon: www.maitlandaroma.com.au

Over the years, the Hunter Valley has grown to become the ideal des na on for food, wine and music lovers in search of good taste. Here you can a end year long gourmet food and wine events and fes vals ‐ from coffee, chocolate and fine food to celebra ng the grape harvest, roses, spring, jazz and even a weekend of long lunches and music featuring Jazz in the Vines (25 October, 2014): Jazz in the Vines is about music that home grown musicians and interna onal ar sts. moves the soul, it’s about being outdoors with family and friends, it’s Visitors can also witness the splendour of over 2 million roses in full about enjoying good food and wine, it’s about having FUN. Jazz, soul, funk, bloom, see 1.5 million Christmas lights in ac on and celebrate Spring with jazz‐rock, modern, tradi onal and everything else. You will find elements the plan ng of over 250,000 annuals. of everything here. Jazz in the Vines is held at Tyrrell's Vineyard ‐ Broke Road Pokolbin. For more informaƟon: www.jazzinthevines.com.au It's all happening in Hunter Valley Wine Country ‐ and it's a mere 2 hours Bi er and Twisted Interna onal Bou que Beer Fes val (1 November to 2 November 2014 ): The Bi er and Twisted Interna onal Bou que Beer The Lovedale Long Lunch (17 & 18th May 2014): A wine and food lovers Fes val returns to Maitland Gaol on the first weekend in November. The delight. Held amongst the picturesque vineyards of Lovedale, this annual weekend fes val includes stalls offering tas ngs of over 50 beers from the event was started in 1994 to promote Lovedale as a premium wine best Australian cra ‐breweries as well as specialty interna onal beer from producing area and tourist a rac on. The Lovedale Long Lunch is a once a around the globe and a choice of interna onal, local and gourmet delights year opportunity to indulge your senses, taste world class wines, indulge in to indulge your tastebuds even further! For more informaƟon: delectable cuisine and dance the weekend away to some of the best live www.biƩerandtwisted.com.au music in the Hunter Valley. For more informaƟon: Spring Fes val of Flowers (1 September ‐ 30 September 2014): An event www.lovedalelonglunch.com.au designed to immerse visitors in a visual and sensory experience they will from Sydney and a mere 45 minutes from the city of Newcastle.

Hunter Valley Wine and Food Month (Month of June 2014): This much‐ an cipated annual event showcases the region's diverse wine and food culture with a month‐long series of themed ac vi es throughout June.

Hunter Valley Wine and Food Month provides you with the opportunity to wine and dine with leading Hunter Valley Winemakers and Chefs, take part in an array of fun and interac ve classes to try your culinary skills or, if you're a er a more relaxing experience, simply curl up beside an open fire with a glass of premium Hunter Valley wine and a cheese plate. For more informaƟon: www.winecountry.com.au Hunter Valley Gardens Chocolate Fes val (5th July ‐ 6th July 2014): This amazing event will immerse you in a chocolate experience you will never forget, while enjoying family fun and ac vi es inspired by chocolate. There will be delicious stalls along with entertainment, demonstra ons, ac vi es and compe ons. Don’t miss out on this chocolaty delight! Snow Time in the Garden is also running during this event. For more informaƟon: www.huntervalleygardens.com.au

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never forget. There are over 250,000 annuals planted throughout Hunter Valley Gardens along with fabulous entertainment, ac vi es, a rac ons, demonstra ons, talks, tours and workshops. Check the Hunter Valley Gardens website closer to the date for more informa on and a full program. For more informaƟon: www.huntervalleygardens.com.au.

Rose Spectacular (11 October ‐ 16 November 2014): Take the opportunity to see Hunter Valley Gardens blooming with over 2 million rose blooms, throughout the annual Rose Spectacular. See 35,000 rose bushes in over 125 different varie es. The majority of the roses are grown at Hunter Valley Gardens are of the fragrant variety, a er all, a rose without perfume just isn’t a rose! Includes rose talks and demonstra ons. For more informaƟon: www.huntervalleygardens.com.au Christmas Lights Spectacular at Hunter Valley Gardens (7 November ‐ 26 January 26th 2015): Australia's biggest Christmas lights display and a wonderful experience for the whole family to enjoy with the Gardens alive with colour. With exci ng new displays of over 1.5 million lights, plus fes ve food, beverages, children's entertainment and of course Santa Claus, the Christmas Lights Spectacular captures the spirit of Christmas and creates las ng memories for all. For more informaƟon: www.huntervalleygardens.com.au

morpethhuntervalley.com.au It must be Morpeth

HunterValleyShopping.com.au

Shop BEAUTIFUL THINGS An exquisite array of spectacular jewellery, stylish watches, amazing giftware and home wares. 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.

CHRISTMAS IN THE VINES Where it is Christmas every day. Come on in to our little cottage, and see the great Christmas bargains in store.

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, nonfiction, and children’s books and a unique collection of quality toys, games, souvenirs and gifts.

WILSON & HUNTER Summer is heating up at Wilson and Hunter with a burst of colour. The latest from Camilla, Mela Purdie, Verge, Katherine, Samantha Wills, Metalicus, Bleu Blanc Rouge,Tilly Rose,Tolani and more…

WINE GLASS GALLERY An extraordinary gift gallery, hand blown colourful wine glasses, original artworks, homewares, new season scarves & handbags, jewellery, shot glasses, magnets, souvenirs & much more.

Dine AND THE WINNER IS OSCARS Serving tasty gourmet picnics, fish, sandwiches, our famous gourmet pies, pizza and pasta, there is truly something for all tastes and pockets! Phone 4998-7355.

Savour HUNTER VALLEY CHOCOLATE COMPANY

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

THE VILLAGE COFFEE SHOP & CAFÉ Relax HUNTER VALLEY COOKIES Hand-made and enjoy a delicious light meal or sweet treat and a premium cookies in designer gourmet flavours. blissful cup of coffee. Phone 4998-6933.

Cookie tastings daily, delicious coffee and gluten TASTE OF THE COUNTRY Experience a Taste of free cookies. the Country in this award winning café and retail outlet. HUNTER VALLEY LIQUEURS & BAERAMI This popular café is like walking into an old fashioned, OLIVES Extra virgin olive oils, infused olive oils, country kitchen. Phone 4998-6605. vinegars and a large range of specialty liqueurs and an THE CELLAR RESTAURANT Rustic Mediterranean impressive array of bottles to customize your selection. cuisine in a relaxed, friendly environment. Open for THE BRITISH LOLLY SHOP The largest range of lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday. Bookings imported English Confectionary. All your old recommended. Phone 4998 7584. favourites, humbugs, sherbet lemon, come in and sample our hospitality.

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

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

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Essentials POKOLBIN CONVENIENCE STORE In the heart

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.

of the village is a genuine general store servicing the Pokolbin area with everything you might need while visiting the Wine Country.

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