Wine & Dine Hunter Valley | Issue 13 2017 by WCP MEDIA

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO THE HUNTER VALLEY •CELLAR DOORS •RESTAURANTS •TRAIL MAPS •RESTAURANT REVIEWS •LOCAL PRODUCE

ISSUE #13 2017

We Love Our Beer

Visit the Hunter Valley’s Oldest brewery... Hunter Beer Co. WHAT’S YOUR BEER EXPERIENCE? Sitting back, relaxing and enjoying a pint of your favourite beer? Sampling the delights of TEN hand-crafted beers? Checking out a tasting paddle? Chatting to the Brewers? Taking a Brewery Tour? It doesn’t matter which one is your favourite... You can do it all at Hunter Beer Co.

BREWERY TOURS 7 DAYS A WEEK - Monday to Friday 4pm Saturday and Sunday 12pm & 4pm The brewery is open to the public from 10AM - 5PM, with all beers available in the main bar until late.

POTTERS HOTEL BREWERY RESORT WINE COUNTRY DRIVE, NULKABA PH 4991 7922 BREWER@POTTERSHBR.COM.AU | WWW.HUNTERBEERCO.COM

Your Dream Wedding Destination

Nightingale's new Chef brings with him over 20 years’ culinary experience in fine dining restaurants and catering for iconic Hollywood celebrities and music stars. His famous mantra “paddock to plate menus that please” saw him being awarded the top prize at the 2016 Australian Brides Choice Awards. Nightingale Wines & Restaurant will give your wedding that edge, be it fine dining or even a casual affair, with a menu especially designed for each couple, making it a wedding to truly remember.

Your Wedding at Nightingale Wines www.nightingalewines.com.au | (02) 6579 1499 1239 Milbrodale Road, Broke NSW 2330

Quick Index Pokolbin North

Pokolbin South

Lovedale, Rothbury & Branxton

Mount View & Cessnock

Broke Fordwich

Wollombi

Weddings, Feasts & Functions

EDITORS/PUBLISHERS Quentin & Di von Essen, Carla Elkin GRAPHIC DESIGN Jess Codrington, Larissa Cluff CONTRIBUTORS Salt&Peppa Reviews, The Gourmet Girls, Michelle Meehan FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION: +61 2 4943 2888 wineanddine@wcpmedia.com.au Level 1, 216 Pacific Hwy, Charlestown NSW 2290 Australia Â© Copyright 2017 WCP MEDIA. All rights reserved. Wine & Dine is a Registered Trademark. Reproduction in part or whole or use without permission is strictly prohibited. For information regarding permissions please contact us at the above address. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, WCP MEDIA cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur. All opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily that of the publishers. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising due to inappropriate content.

www.huntervalleyonline.com.au

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Australia's Must

WELCOME... Welcome to the Hunter Valley and the second 2017 issue of Wine & Dine Hunter Valley. Celebrated as Australia’s oldest and most visited wine region, the Hunter Valley is considered to be the country’s premier food and wine destination and home to some of Australia’s most outstanding wines, winemakers, restaurants and chefs. You’ll be spoilt for choice with the Hunters vibrant gourmet food culture and

exceptional wineries. We take our beer pretty seriously too with 4 local breweries making small batches of pure, traditionally fermented craft brews. Go wine tasting, choose from a diversity of restaurants and cafes, book a wine tour or self drive and explore the different wine growing areas using one of the six Wine & Food Trail Maps provided in this guide. Enjoy!

Wine & Food Trails Pokolbin North Food & Wine Trail 12

Broke Fordwich Food & Wine Trail 84

Pokolbin South Food & Wine Trail

Wollombi Food & Wine Trail

Lovedale Food & Wine Trail

Mount View and Cessnock Food & Wine Trail

Articles & Special Features Hunter Valley Varietals – Reds

Coffee Obsessed! 27 Dining Review Casuarina Restaurant

The Kirkton Park Experience

Pinot What? Pronouncing Wine Names Dining Review Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar

Get into the Spirit at Hunter Distillery Wine Myths Uncorked

Dining Review Circa 1876

Hunter Valley Varietals – Whites

Drinking Stars! Sparkling Wines to Try

Pairing Charcuterie & Wine

Weddings, Feasts & Functions 99

Visit Wine Region...

Quick Index to Cellar Doors (A-L) Adina Vineyard

492 Lovedale Road, Lovedale

7 Days

Ascella Organic Wines

203 Thompsons Road, Milbrodale

7 Days

Blueberry Hill Vineyard

999 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Briar Ridge Vineyard

593 Mount View Road, Mount View

7 Days

Calais Estate

151 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin

7 Days

Capercaillie Wine Co.

4 Londons Road, Lovedale

7 Days

Catherine Vale Wines

656 Milbrodale Road, Broke

Fri - Sun & Pub Hols

Constable Estate

205 Gillards Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

DeBortoli Wines

532 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin

7 Days

Drayton’s Family Wines

555 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Emmas Cottage Vineyard

438 Wilderness Road, Lovedale

Fri - Sun & Pub Hols

Ernest Hill Wines

307 Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba

7 Days

First Creek Wines

600 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Gartelmann Wines

701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale

7 Days

Gemelli Estate

168 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin

Fri - Mon

Gundog Estate

101 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Hanging Tree Wines

294 O’Connors Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Hungerford Hill

2450 Broke Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Hunter Beer Co.

Potters Hotel, Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba

7 Days

Hunter Distillery

1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Iron Gate Estate

Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Ivanhoe Wines

525 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

James Estate

1142-1210 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Kelman Vineyard

2 Oakey Creek Road, Mount View

7 Days

Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard

712 Wollombi Road, Broke

Fri - Sun

Lambloch Estate

2342 Broke Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Lucy's Run

1274 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale

Sat, Sun & Pub Hols; Weekdays by app.

4 | ISSUE #13 2017

Quick Index to Cellar Doors (M-Z) McLeish Estate

462 DeBeyers Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Meerea Park

Roche Estate, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Road’s, Pokolbin

7 Days

Mistletoe Winery

771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Misty Glen Wines

293 Deasys Road, Pokolbin

Fri to Mon or by app.

Moorebank Vineyard

150 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin

7 Days

Mount Broke Wines

130 Adams Peak Road, Broke

Sat & Sun

Mount View Estate

502 Mount View Road, Mount View

7 Days

Nightingale Wines

1239 Milbrodale Road, Broke

7 Days

Noyce Brothers Wines

2884 Wollombi Road, Wollombi

7 Days

Oakvale Wines

1596 Broke Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Peacock Hill Vineyard

29 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin

7 Days

Peterson House

Cnr Broke Road & Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin

7 Days

Petersons Wines - Pokolbin

2347 Broke Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Petersons Wines - Mount View

552 Mount View Road, Mount View

7 Days

Pierre’s Wines

82 Elderslie Road, Branxton

Sat & Sun; Mon - Fri by app.

Pokolbin Estate

298 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

RidgeView Wines

273 Sweetwater Road, Pokolbin

Wed - Sun

Saddler’s Creek Wines

15 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Savannah Estate Wines

402 Mount View Road, Mount View

7 Days

Stonehurst Cedar Creek

1840 Wollombi Road, Cedar Creek

7 Days

Tamburlaine Organic Wines

358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

7 Days

Tatler Wines

477 Lovedale Road, Lovedale

7 Days

Thomas Wines

Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin

7 Days

Tintilla Estate

725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Wandin Valley Estate

12 Wilderness Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Wollombi Village Vineyard

2971 Payne’s Crossing Road, Wollombi

Sat & Sun

Wollombi Wines

25 Charlton Street, Wollombi (off Wollombi Road)

Wed - Mon

Wynwood Estate

310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

7 Days ISSUE #13 2017 | 5

Quick Index to Restaurants (A-R) Al-Oi Thai Restaurant

19 Vincent St, Cessnock

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

And the Winner is Oscars

Shop 15, HV Gardens, Broke Road, Pokolbin

Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days

Bistro Molines

749 Mount View Road, Mount View

Lunch Thurs - Mon; Dinner Fri & Sat

Bistro on Hermitage

1142-1210 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

Lunch Fri - Sun; Dinner Fri & Sat

Blaxland Inn

2198 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Buon Cibo Café/Ristorante

Pokolbin Village, 2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Fri - Mon

Casuarina Restaurant

Casuarina Estate, 1023 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

Breakfast & Lunch Sat & Sun; Dinner Wed - Sun

Circa 1876

64 Halls Road, Pokolbin

Lunch & Dinner Fri - Tues

Éléments

Mercure HVG, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Road’s, Pokolbin

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Epicure Café

2/426 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days

Epoche Lounge Bar

Kirkton Park, 336 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

EXP. Restaurant

1596 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Lunch Fri - Sun; Dinner Wed - Sat

Goldfish Bar & Kitchen

Roche Estate, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Road’s, Pokolbin

Lunch and Dinner 7 Days

Harrigan’s Irish Pub

Broke Road, Pokolbin

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Hunter’s Quarter

Cockfighters Ghost, 576 De Beyers Road, Pokolbin

Lunch Thurs - Sun; Dinner Thurs - Sat & Mon

Locavore Dining

Kirkton Park, 336 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

Dinner 7 nights

Lovedale Smokehouse & Café

64 Majors Lane, Lovedale

Lunch Thurs to Mon

Matilda Bay Brewhouse

Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Muse Kitchen

Keith Tulloch Wines, 17 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

Lunch Wed - Sun; Dinner Sat

Muse Restaurant

Hungerford Hill, 2450 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Lunch Sat & Sun; Dinner Wed - Sat

Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen

16 Pokolbin Mountains Road, Pokolbin

Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days; Dinner by arrangement

Nightingale Restaurant

1239 Milbrodale Road, Broke

Lunch & Dinner Wed to Sun; Breakfast Sun

Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant

Roche Estate, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Road’s, Pokolbin

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Restaurant Cuvee

Cnr Broke Road & Wine Country Dr, Pokolbin

Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days

Restaurant Eighty Eight

88 Halls Road, Pokolbin

Breakfast 7 Days; Dinner Wed - Sat

RidgeView Restaurant

273 Sweetwater Road, Pokolbin

Breakfast Fri - Sun; Lunch Thurs - Sun; Dinner Thurs - Sun

6 | ISSUE #13 2017

Quick Index to Restaurants (R-Z) Royal Federal Hotel

50 Maitland Road, Branxton

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Route 33 Café

Wollombi Tavern, 2994 Great North Road, Wollombi

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar

Lambloch Estate, 2342 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Thurs - Mon

Sabor Tea Room

319 Wilderness Road, Lovedale

Sat & Sun

Tatler Tapas Restaurant

Tatler Wines, 477 Lovedale Road, Lovedale

Lunch Wed - Sun; Dinner Fri & Sat

The Brickworks Brasserie

Potters Hotel, Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

The Cellar Restaurant

HVG Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin

Lunch and Dinner Mon - Sat

The Convent

88 Halls Road, Pokolbin

Functions & On-site Restaurant

The Deck Café

Gartelmann Wines, 701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale

Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days

The Verandah Restaurant

Calais Estate, Palmers Lane, Pokolbin

Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Thurs - Sun

Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen

De Iuliis Wines, 1616 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Lunch 7 Days; Breakfast Sat & Sun

Wandin Valley Estate Cafe

Wandin Valley Estate, 12 Wilderness Road, Lovedale

Breakfast & Lunch Wed - Sun

Quick Index to Providores (A-Z) The Hunter Providore

Adina Vineyard, 492 Lovedale Road, Lovedale

7 Days

Gartelmann Wines

701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale

7 Days

Gundog Estate & Gourmet Pantry

101 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Hunter Valley Chocolate Co.

HVG Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin; Peterson House, Broke Road, Pokolbin; 2320 Broke Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Kelman Vineyard

2 Oakey Creek Road, Mount View

7 Days

Lovedale Smokehouse

64 Majors Lane, Lovedale

Thurs to Mon

Moorebank Vineyard

150 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin

7 Days

Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar

Lambloch Estate, 2342 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Thurs to Mon

The Hunter Olive Centre

Pokolbin Estate, 298 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Tintilla Estate

725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen

1616 Broke Road, Pokolbin

7 Days ISSUE #13 2017 | 7

“Quality without compromise”

WE ARE FAMILY MISTLETOE is a small family owned and run winery that was established by the current owners in 1989. Now in its 28th year, Mistletoe’s “no-compromise” approach to producing small quan��es of “true to origin” premium quality wine has seen it rewarded with many, many hundreds of awards and accolades. With three genera�ons of the founding family now ac�vely engaged in running the business on a day to day basis, Mistletoe is a truly unique family winery. With over 20 different wines, including Sparkling, Whites, Reds, Rosés, For�fied and Dessert styles on tas�ng, Mistletoe has one of the most comprehensive ranges of wines to be seen in the Hunter. • All wines are made in our onsite winery • Winery tas�ngs available for larger groups – bookings essen�al! • Mistletoe Wines are only available for purchase from the Winery Cellar Door Now tasting • Knowledgeable and friendly staff to make you welcome the Hunter

Rosé 2017 20th Vintage!

When visi�ng Mistletoe be sure to take �me to visit POKOLBIN GALLERY and MISTLETOE SCULPTURE GARDEN also in the grounds of the Cellar Door.

Open 10am until 6pm Daily | 771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin 2320 PH 1800 055 080 | E office@mistletoewines.com.au www.mistletoewines.com.au 8 | ISSUE #13 2017

HOW TO USE WINE & DINE

SYMBOLS Throughout this guide you will see symbols relating to facilities and products offered by our Wineries, Cellar Doors, Restaurants and Providores. Here are the meanings:

NEW EN GLAND

HIGH WAY

NEW

L ENG

AND

HIG

A HW

Hig hw ay

Littlewood Road

U N

TE R

AD CAM P RO

lde n Go

ad ay Ro Linds

ater Road etw S we

ROAD N

ES SW A

th or

Ro a

B la c kburn

O l d North

Cl o

Road Ta lg

Hill Road rk

HERMITAGE ROAD

ba on Ir

ys as

ad Ro

Wil

E IN

ND LA

E AL

AD RO

ad Ro

n ad Ro Palmers Lane

MITAGE RO HER AD

MCDONALDS ROAD

Green Lane

Mears La n e

Bernard Road

Palmers Lane

Majors La ne

LOVEDALE ROAD

UNTRY DRIVE CO

Putty Road

Mi lb r od ale

Brickmans Lane

Gillards Road

Pu tty Ro ad

ad Ro

Picnic/ BBQ Area

LOVEDALE

Wilderness Road

Palmers Lane

Thompsons Rd

rne de

Wilderness Road

Deasys Road

Ch ar lto

BROKE FORDWICH

AL Road

LOVEDALE ROAD

d Roa

sys Dea

L an Mistle toe Ro ad

U E CO

Talg a

Talg a Ro ad

WI N

D ROA

Vineyard Views

Ro ad

Coulson Road

MCDONALDS ROAD

Talga Road

POKOLBIN NORTH

BRO

Disabled Access

L odge Road

BROKE ROAD

15KM>

<15KM

BROKE ROAD

Campbells Lane

Bey

ers

Lomas Lane

ad y Ro Putt

D MC

SR OA D

POKOLBIN SOUTH De Beyers Road

Fletcher

Ironbark Lane

Street

Racecourse Lne

Fleming st

Ingles Lne

O ’Connors Road

Kerlew Street

e Road

AN LL

bon

NULKABA A

OAKEY CREEK ROAD

rr Ma

DRIVE NTRY COU NE WI

O’Connors Road

OAKEY CREEK ROAD

t Bright Road Moun

ew Road Vi

Kendall Str eet

<2 4

Roa d dle Mid

AD RO

dR oa

ABERDARE ROAD

.5 K

ie l

El l

OR G RE AT N

illf

Sandy Creek Road

oad long R rrobo

Cr e ek R oad

OM LL O

CESSNOCK

adeen Road

Quo

ou nt

ad Ro

AD RO

k ee Cr

Mount View Road

Bimb

eet Str

NG SI OS

WOLLOMBI ROAD

o ng Ya

MOUNT VIEW

Ce d

Ro ad

AD O

cent Vin

ES YN PA

Functions/ Events/ Weddings

ee k

ET RE T ST EN NC

MOUNT VIEW ROAD

Marrowbone Road

WOLLOMBI

T LA AI M

E AL D

Order Online

Olsen Road

ad Ro

McCarthy Road

Scenic Views

Londons Road

E IV

ROA D

Roa d

De Beyers Road

R YD TR UN CO

Tho mpso ns

E IN W

De Beyers Road

WOLLO MBI

oad E kerts R

Halls Road

BROKE ROAD

Ekerts Road

D LOVEDALE ROA

30KM>

BROKE ROAD

On Site Gallery

Family Friendly

WINE C OUNTRY DRIV E

Squire Cl os e

E ITAG RM HE O ld

Winery/Cellar Door

Cooking Classes

HI G

ld fie ns Ma

TUCKERS LANE

Providore/Gourmet Produce

Beer on Tap

EN GL AN D

on ls Ne

Restaurant

Accommodation

NEW

HUNTER EXPRESSWAY

<15KM

Sandy Creek Road

Free Wifi Picnic Hampers On Site Golf Course Air Conditioning Baby Change Facilities Guided Winery Tours

PICK UP YOUR FREE Full size Wine & Dine map today! Available throughout Wine Country.

INDEX TO WINE & FOOD TRAIL MAPS Self-touring Wine Country: • Locate your current area on the map above. • Use the index below to locate the page number for your selected trail. • Turn to the page indicated to find detailed information about the trail you have selected and an alphabetical listing of all Wineries and Restaurants you can discover along your trail. • Drive carefully and enjoy! Pokolbin North

PG 12

Pokolbin South

PG 32

Lovedale, Rothbury & Branxton

PG 64

Mount View & Cessnock

PG 76

Broke Fordwich

PG 84

Wollombi

PG 94

ISSUE #13 2017 | 9

REDS of the Hunter

Home to some of the oldest vines and biggest names in Australian wine, the Hunter Valley is a mecca for lovers of quality red wines that have been crafted in this region for over 180 years. Hunter red wines are renowned for their thoroughly unique and distinctive style and ageing ability. SHIRAZ - Shiraz is the Hunter’s premium red wine variety and the most widely planted grape variety in Australia. The typical young Hunter Valley Shiraz is a medium bodied wine showing red and dark berries, spices and a great deal of tannin. However, it’s real character is seen in wines with longevity. With age, the wines become far more complex, full bodied, and richly flavoured with some earthy tones. PINOT NOIR - Described as “the most romantic of wines’’ due to its gratifying perfume, Pinot Noir is light to medium in body with a broad range of textures and flavours, including a variety of complex aromas reminiscent of black or red cherry, raspberry, currant and blackberry. Pinot Noir is also highly reflective of its terroir with different wine growing regions often producing very different wines. MERLOT - Merlot is renowned for its wonderfully fruity, well rounded, even fleshy character and is grown in just about every wine growing region of Australia. The summer heat of the Hunter is considered to provide the ideal growing conditions for this versatile grape variety. In recent years, Hunter Valley Merlot has experienced a surge in popularity and is often considered to be more robust and fleshy than other well regarded varieties with a rich bouquet providing one of the most pleasurable wine experiences. CABERNET SAUVIGNON - The world’s most recognised red grape variety famous for its ability to age for decades at a time. This classic red variety of Bordeaux is second only to Shiraz in importance in Australia and can be medium to full bodied, typically leafy with ripe cassis like flavours, well structured and 10 | ISSUE #13 2017

elegant and powerfully aromatic. The bouquet can be rich with fruity notes of black cherries and currants, herby notes of peppers and olives and spicy notes of ginger. CHAMBOURCIN - Relatively new to Australia, Chambourcin wines have a lovely, deep red colour. Most are big and fruity with a lot of raspberries, plums, prunes and even cranberries on the palate. It is not as heavy or robust as Shiraz or Cabernet Sauvignon, which can make it quite attractive to people who don’t like red wine. Because this variety is especially resistant to fungal diseases Chambourcin is a variety that succeeds wonderfully in the Hunter Valley climate. SANGIOVESE - This star amongst Italian wine grape varieties, Sangiovese is now making its mark in Australia where it has become increasingly popular over the last few decades. The variety produces elegant mediumbodied wines with powerful aromas and with moderate to high natural acidity. The characteristic flavours are cherries, tomatoes, herbs, spices and tea-like flavours. Australian Sangiovese wines tend to be a little more fruity, with riper flavours and higher alcohol.

The Estate. The Passion. The Wine. Open daily 10am-5pm. 2450 Broke Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 PH (02) 4998 7666 E wines@hungerfordhill.com.au www.hungerfordhill.com.au

POKOLBIN NORTH WINE & DINE TRAIL

NEW EN GLAND

HIGH WAY

NEW

L ENG

AND

HIG

A HW

NEW

HUNTER EXPRESSWAY

EN GL AN D

HI G

<15KM

Gol den

th or

HERMITAGE ROAD

ES SW A

Ta lg

Ro ad

Talg a

ND LA

E AL

AD RO

Road

Talg a Ro ad

Talga Road

Coulson Road

rne de

ad Ro

LOVEDALE ROAD

Wil

ad Ro

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d Roa

U E CO

sys Dea

WI N

Ro ad

MCDONALDS ROAD

E RO BROK

L an Mistle toe

TE R

Road

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POKOLBIN NORTH O l d North

LOVEDALE

B la c kburn C

Hill Road rk

Littlewood Road

ad ay Ro Linds

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ROAD Ro a

ba on Ir

WINE C OUNTRY DRIV E

Squire Cl os e

E ITAG RM HE O ld

TUCKERS LANE

ld fie ns Ma

Hig hwa y

on ls Ne

Wilderness Road

Deasys Road Wilderness Road

Majors La ne

E IN

n ad Ro Palmers Lane

Green Lane

MCDONALDS ROAD

MITAGE RO HER AD

BROKE FORDWICH Mi lb r od ale

Brickmans Lane

Gillards Road

Pu tty Ro ad

ad Ro

L odge Road

BROKE ROAD

15KM>

E IN W

Halls Road

R YD TR UN CO E IV

Lomas Lane

McCarthy Road

NULKABA

D MC

ad y Ro Putt

SR OA D

Ironbark Lane

Street

Racecourse Lne

Fleming st

Ingles Lne

O ’Connors Road

Kerlew Street

Marrowbone Road

t Bright Road Moun

ET RE ST

MOUNT VIEW ROAD

Mount View Road

OM LL O

ABERDARE ROAD ent Vinc

CESSNOCK eet

ew Road Vi

Str

Bimb

adeen Road

Kendall Str eet

e Roa d

Middl

Sandy Creek Road ad

ou nt

Sandy Creek Road

NAME

PG Y

Blueberry Hill Vineyard

Calais Estate

Casuarina Restaurant

MAP

Constable Estate

EXP. Restaurant

First Creek Wines

Gemelli Estate

Hunter Distillery

James Estate

Matilda Bay Brewhouse

Mistletoe Winery

Misty Glen Wines

Moorebank Vineyard

Muse Kitchen

Oakvale Wines

Peacock Hill Vineyard

RidgeView Wines & Restaurant

The Verandah Restaurant

Thomas Wines

Tintilla Estate

Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen

oad long R rrobo

dR oa

AD RO

ie l

illf

El l

M .5 K

Quo

<2 4

Cr e ek R oad

Bistro on Hermitage

AD O

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T LA AI M

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OAKEY CREEK ROAD

rr Ma

e Road

Ce d ee k

WOLLOMBI ROAD

WOLLOMBI

DRIVE NTRY COU NE WI

O’Connors Road

W Cr

Olsen Road

bon

MOUNT VIEW OR G RE AT N

POKOLBIN NORTH

De Beyers Road

Londons Road

OAKEY CREEK ROAD

AD RO

s yer

Fletcher

NG SI OS

For more information about events visit www.aroundhermitage.com.au

Campbells Lane

Roa d

De Beyers Road

Gourmet Tours Two Fat Blokes tours are perfect for those looking to taste the best local delights of the Hunter Valley. Full, half and private tours are available with free pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation. For more information visit www.twofatblokes.com.au

Tho mpso ns

ES YN PA

THINGS TO SEE & DO Adventure Awaits! The Adventure Centre located at Hunter Resort offers a wide range of experiences such as horse riding, electric bike centre, Segway tours, candy making and pizza making classes, grape stomping, barrel rolling and much more! For more information call 4998 7777.

De Beyers Road

oad E kerts R

Ekerts Road

ROA D

Within the numerous wineries, restaurants, cafés and gourmet food providers in the Pokolbin area are some of the best known names in Australian wine - some of which have been in existence for well over a century. The majority offer tasting facilities and cellar door sales, and some of the larger enterprises provide additional facilities such as function rooms, restaurants, barbecue and picnic facilities.

WHERE AM I?

BROKE ROAD

POKOLBIN SOUTH

D LOVEDALE ROA

BROKE ROAD

WOLLO MBI

The Pokolbin North Trail is located on the northern side of Pokolbin - stretching north from Broke Road to Hermitage Road and Old North Road. It includes some of the most renown and highly awarded wineries, restaurants and providores and has some of the most enjoyable wine and food experiences in the Hunter.

<15KM

30KM>

The beautiful surrounds at James Estate

Mears La n e Bernard Road

Palmers Lane

Thompsons Rd

LOVEDALE ROAD

UNTRY DRIVE CO

Putty Road

Ch ar lto

MAP AND FEATURED DESTINATIONS A RidgeView Wines & Restaurant SWEETWATER RD

HERMITAGE RD

H RD OLD NORT

IRONBARK HILL RD

COULSON RD

Tintilla Estate Mistletoe Winery

Blueberry Hill Vineyard DS

Matilda Bay Brewhouse

Thomas Wines

DEASYS RD

Muse Kitchen James Estate & Bistro on Hermitage

DO NAL

Misty Glen Wines

MISTLETOE LN

PALMERS LN

Gemelli Estate

Casuarina Restaurant

Constable Estate Vineyard GILLARD

EXP. Restaurant F Oakvale Wines Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen

The Verandah Restaurant & Calais Estate

S RD

LD NA DO

BROKE RD

D SR

First Creek Wines

Peacock Hill Vineyard

Hunter Distillery

Moorebank

WINE COUNTRY DR

BROKE RD

MAP LEGEND Winery/Cellar Door Restaurant/ CafÃ© Providore/ Gourmet Produce Distillery

H 1

Al fresco dining is a must at RidgeView

POKOLBIN NORTH

Fine Dining & Accommodation in the heart of the wine region Casuarina Restaurant is a fine dining restaurant, famous for it’s flambé cooking coupled with an amazing menu of flavours, food, and wine which combine to create something truly memorable. Casuarina Café provides not only fine espresso but a range of breakfast and lunch dishes that will not disappoint. Casuarina has a long history of exceptional food and wine service, and has been a multi-award winning restaurant, come dine at Casuarina and experience the magic for yourself. The iconic Casuarina Estate Restaurant & Café has been a Pokolbin favourite for decades, and is now back to it’s former glory thanks to Head Chef Michael Watson.

Restaurant Wednesday to Sunday from 6pm

Call 4998 7730 to book your Fine Dining Experience Café Friday to Sunday from 10am

www.casuarinaestate.com.au · 1023 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin, NSW 2325 | 4998 7730 | dining@casuarinaestate.com.au

BISTRO ON HERMITAGE 1142 - 1210 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7992 Executive Chef, Melissa Dixon is in charge of the kitchen at Bistro on Hermitage and says “my passion is creating good, delicious, fresh food that brings people together… each time I see someone take a bite and then smile, I feel like I’ve done my job.” The menu is seasonally driven, but some of the delicious bites you can expect at Bistro on Hermitage include mouth-watering local cheese platters, wood-ﬁred pizzas, beautiful fresh salads and to die for sweet treats. Enjoy it in beautiful surroundings, with great friends, and as much joy and laughter as possible.

www.jamesestatewines.com.au

pokolbin@jamesestatewines.com.au

OPENING HOURS Bistro on Hermitage Friday & Saturday - Lunch & Dinner, 10AM till Late; Sunday - Lunch, 10AM - 4PM. Cellar Door (Pokolbin) Mon - Sat 10AM - 5PM; Sunday 10AM - 4PM GROUPS Walk-ins welcome, but bookings recommended. DINING STYLE Casual, family friendly. Wine, beer and coﬀee. PRICE RANGE $16 - $32. Group menus available.

MAP REF: E2

BLUEBERRY HILL VINEYARD 999 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7295 The most unique, relaxed wine experience in the Hunter! Blueberry Hill is a long established vineyard which was once part of the old McPherson Estate. Grapes from the well-established vines produce wonderful characteristics in the wines. Six varieties are grown – Merlot, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc – some featuring in wines winning international awards. Blueberry Hill has a uniquely positioned cellar door with magniﬁcent views across Hunter vineyards to the Brokenback Range. It’s a ‘must see’ for tourists and wine lovers.

www.blueberryhill.com.au wine@blueberryhill.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES OPEN 7 DAYS 10AM to 5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day GROUPS Welcome WHITE WINES Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon RED WINES Shiraz, Merlot, Rosé, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir SPARKLING Blanc de Noir, Rosé de Noir DESSERT WINES Semillon, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc PRICING From $25/ bottle

MAP REF: C7

POKOLBIN NORTH

CALAIS ESTATE 151 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998-7654 Come and discover our passion at Calais Estate! A family owned and run boutique winery in the heart of the Hunter Valley, we are famous for our great wine and hospitality. Home to one of the largest ranges of boutique wines in the Hunter, including a range of hand-made Methode Traditionelle sparkling wines & cider, there is always something for everyone. We are also home to the renowned Verandah Restaurant and Come What May, a vintage modern homewares & gift shop. Eat in the restaurant or take one of our gourmet picnic packs from the Cellar door and enjoy it in one of our numerous picnic spots, shop and enjoy great wine, all at Calais Estate. You can also book in for one of our monthly Winery Long Lunches or join the Palmer’s Lane Wine eco-trail to walk, cycle or drive between the Palmers Lane Cellar Doors.

www.calaiswines.com.au cellardoor@calaiswines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES OPEN 7 DAYS Mon - Sat 9AM - 5PM Sun 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Bookings Essential

Cellar Door is open 7 days a week, Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm, Sun 10am - 5pm. Verandah Restaurant open for lunch 7 days and dinner Thursday - Sunday. Come What May is open Thursday - Sunday, 10am - 5pm or by appointment.

CASUARINA RESTAURANT

MAP REF: E7

1023 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin PH 4998-7730 www.casuarinaestate.com.au dining@casuarinaestate.com.au OPENING HOURS BREAKFAST Sat & Sun 8AM - 11AM LUNCH Sat & Sun 12PM - 3PM DINNER Wed - Sun 6PM - Late GROUPS Welcome. Reservations required.

Casuarina Restaurant is a fine dining restaurant, originally made famous by master chef Peter Meier, and head chef Michael Watson, for a menu that included flambé meals and desserts. Casuarina has a long history of exceptional food and wine service, and has been a multi award-winning restaurant. We are very pleased to announce Head Chef Michael Watson has returned to Casuarina Restaurant, to bring back the amazing history of flambé cooking, coupled with an amazing menu of flavours, food, and wine. 16

POKOLBIN NORTH

DINING STYLE Fine Dining SPECIALITIES Flambé PRICING From $45 to $95 for two Vegetarian menu available.

MAP REF: E2

CONSTABLE ESTATE 205 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7887 Established in 1981, Constable Estate is recognised for producing outstanding Hunter Valley estate-grown wines. The wines range from traditional Constable Estate to easy drinking Matilda. Visit the cellar door and discover our wines, beautiful gardens and sculptures. Capture fantastic 360-degree views over the valley from our lookout named after the legendary Len Evans. We have something for everyone!

www.constablevineyards.com.au

hunter@constablevineyards.com.au

WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM to 4PM Closed some public holidays GROUPS Welcome by appointment WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Merlot SPARKLING Semillon, Shiraz SPECIALTIES Sparking,Semillon, Shiraz, Botrytis Semillon

Much more than a vineyard...

WINEMAKER Liz Jackson PRICE RANGE From $10 - $50/bottle

MAP REF: E4

OPEN FOR TASTINGS AND SALES

7 Days, 10am - 5pm 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley PH (02) 4998 6737 â&#x20AC;¢ info@hunterdistillery.com.au www.hunterdistillery.com.au POKOLBIN NORTH

EXP. RESTAURANT 1596 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998-7264 Dining at EXP. restaurant is about the EXP.erience; everything from the EXP.erimental taste of the food and wine to the EXP.ertise of the service. The EXP.loration of music along with the EXP.ression of art, through to the paintings and crockery and even EXP. osure to aromas are all a vital part of the EXP.edition to create an everlasting EXP.erience. EXP. restaurant is a hidden gem located in Pokolbin, the heart of the Hunter Valley. The dining room is chic and intimate with hand crafted local furniture. Guests can sit along the bar and peer directly into the kitchen while interacting with Chef Frank Fawkner and his team. The restaurant garden sits just beyond the conﬁnes of the dining room. EXP. restaurant is infused in Oakvale Winery, a family owned and operated business that is passionate about all facets of winemaking. They strive to produce minimalist handcrafted wines that are unique, distinct and a true reﬂection of the Hunter Valley region. The synergy and bond of these two philosophies create a platform for an everlasting EXP.erience.

www.exprestaurant.com.au reservations@exprestaurant.com.au DINING STYLE A unique dining experience with a produce driven menu served in a relaxed atmosphere OPENING HOURS LUNCH Fri to Sun 12PM - 2:30PM DINNER Wed to Sat 6PM - 9PM Closed Christmas Day PRICE GUIDE Tasting menu, 5 courses $85 8 courses $110

E X P. restaurant

MAP REF: F2

FIRST CREEK WINES 600 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-2992

www.ﬁrstcreekwines.com.au cellardoor@ﬁrstcreekwines.com.au

WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days Mon - Sat 9.30AM - 5PM; Sun 9.30AM - 4PM GROUPS By appointment WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Verdelho, Vermentino RED WINES Shiraz, Tempranillo, Merlot, GSM, Shiraz Cabernet SPARKLING WINES NV Cuvee SWEET WINES Botrytis Semillon, Soft Shiraz, Sparkling NV Moscato PRICE RANGE $20 to $60/bottle WINEMAKER Liz Silkman

WINEMAKER OF THE YEAR 2016 & 2011 Observe our working winery through the viewing window Finalist - Gourmet Traveller WINE - Winemaker of the Year 2016 & 2011 Multi awarding winning wines

MAP REF: F7 18

POKOLBIN NORTH

GEMELLI ESTATE 168 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998-7910 Gemelli Estate is a boutique family owned and operated business. Sitting on 25 acres, we grow the Chardonnay, Merlot and Muscat grape, which are all hand-picked to make our exclusive selection of wines, only available at the Cellar Door. Hungry or want to relax a while longer? Indulge in a selection of delights from our delicious grazing menu, whilst sipping on wine and enjoying the view. Gemelli Estate has self contained accommodation and provides an intimate setting for functions and our ever popular monthly High Tea.

www.gemelliestate.com.au info@gemelliestate.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Mon 10AM - 2PM, Fri 10AM - 4PM Sat & Sun 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day & Good Friday GROUPS Bookings required for 8+ MAP REF: D7

“More than wine to double your experience”

HUNTER DISTILLERY 1686 Broke Rd Pokolbin PH 4998-6737 www.HunterDistillery.com.au info@HunterDistillery.com.au

Hunter Distillery is a certiﬁed organic distillery in Hunter Valley wine country. Locally owned and operated, we produce an exceptional range of top shelf spirits, including Vodkas, Liqueurs, Schnapps, and our award winning Copperwave Gin.

TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM to 5PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS By appointment only MAP REF: F3

Our Distillery Door is open for sales and tastings 7 days!

MATILDA BAY BREWHOUSE + DINING

Hunter Valley Resort, Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998-7777

POKOLBIN’S FIRST BOUTIQUE BREWHOUSE Winemakers often say “It takes a lot of beer to make a quality wine…” So what better way to ﬁnish a hard day of wine tasting in the Hunter Valley Wine Country than with a cleansing beer… Experience the unique Beer Tasting Paddle with accompanying tasting notes for each of the 12 brews. Enjoy the famous Alcoholic Ginger Beer, Minimum Chips Lager, Alpha Ale, Bohemian Pilsner, Dogbolter Black Ale, Beez Neez, Ruby Tuesday, Fat Yak, Redback, IGP, and Dirty Granny Cider. Plus the regular ‘special’ brews… Open for Lunch and Dinner 7 Days.

www.hunterresort.com.au functions@HunterResort.com.au OPENING HOURS Bar Open 7 Days from 10AM All Day Dining 7 Days from 12 NOON CLOSED Christmas Day GROUPS Welcome with booking ALSO ONSITE: • The Hunter Wine Theatre Wine School • The Hermitage Road Wine Tasting Cellars • Segway Tours • Horse Riding • Sally Margan’s Heavenly Hunter Massage Centre • Adjacent is the Binnorie Dairy Cheese factory

MAP REF: C2 POKOLBIN NORTH

Winner of 5 consecutive â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Best Cellar Doorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; awards

Tastings | Dining | Shopping | Events Calais Estate is a family run winery and is home to one of the largest boutique wine lists in the Hunter Valley, as well as the renowned Verandah Restaurant and the vintage modern homewares and gift shop; Come What May. Wine taste, dine, shop or relax with one of our gourmet picnic packs in the beautiful Estate grounds. Monthly winery long lunches with a champagne making session are an event not to be missed! Come and enjoy the hospitality for which we are famous!

PH (02) 4998 7654 151 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin NSW 2320 cellardoor@calaiswines.com.au | www.calaiswines.com.au

MISTLETOE WINERY 771 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7770 Now in its 28th year Mistletoe is a proven, and consistent maker of high quality table wines. All the wine we sell is made in our dedicated onsite winery and is exclusively available for purchase at our cellar door which also is home to Pokolbin Fine Art Gallery.

Established by the current owners in 1989 Mistletoe now has three generations of the family actively engaged in running the vineyard, winery and cellar door. We pride ourselves on the friendly welcome , courteous, and knowledgeable service that we extend to each and every visitor. “Quality without compromise” is our motto and by applying this approach to all that we do we have been rewarded with many,many hundreds of awards and accolades. We invite you to call by,taste the wines,enjoy the interaction with our family and learn why Mistletoe is a special place that Hunter visitors return to time and time again. We look forward to welcoming you, The Mistletoe Family.

www.mistletoewines.com.au oﬃce@mistletoewines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 DAYS 10AM - 6PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day GROUPS: Winery Tastings by Appointment Minimum 12 – maximum 30 guests. WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay RED WINES Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet SPARKLING Bottle fermented Blanc de Blanc (100% Chardonnay), Sparkling Rosé, Sparkling Mozcato (yes with a Z – it is from OZ!) FORTIFIED White Muscat SPECIALTIES Three diﬀerent Rosés WINEMAKER Scott Stephens PRICING From $18 - $65 / bottle

MAP REF: C2

MISTY GLEN WINES 293 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7781 Taste a selection of single vineyard wines produced from the 16 acre Misty Glen Vineyard, located within the Hunter Valley, NSW. Varietals include Semillon, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chambourcin and Shiraz. Enjoy a friendly game of croquet or boules with family & friends, bring a picnic and enjoy a few wines from the Misty Glen Cellar Door! Mention ‘Wine & Dine’ to recieve a free tasting of Misty Glen Wines.

www.mistyglen.com.au wines@mistyglen.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES Fri, Sun, Mon 10AM-4PM; Sat 10AM-5PM Other days by appointment CLOSED Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day MAP REF: D5

Cheers, Eric & Vicci.

Take in the views of Calais Estate from The Verandah Restaurant

POKOLBIN NORTH

MOOREBANK VINEYARD ESTATE 150 Palmers Lane Pokolbin PH 4998-7610 Get MooreScato at Moorebank! Taste a creative twist on the traditional Moscato style that is crimson in colour & slightly oﬀ dry.

“Conserve Water… Drink Moorebank Wines”

www.moorebankvineyard.com.au grapes@moorebankvineyard.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 DAYS 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day & Good Friday GROUPS Welcome

The Moorebank family ﬁrst produced wines in the Hunter Valley in the 1840’s, today they continue to produce outstanding wines at the family owned boutique vineyard.

AWARDS ‘Best Small Vineyard’ for 3 consecutive years ‘Woman of Enterprise’ Award

Moorebank Vineyard Estate’s also produce a range of handmade wine inspired products, some of which have come from Debra Moore’s 102 year old grandmother.

PRICE RANGE $5 to $55

Grape & Semillon Spread, Muscat Grape Coulis, Spiced Pickled Grapes and the famous Spicy Grape Sauce are just some of the handmade condiments that are available for tasting in the cellar door, accompanied by the fresh homemade lemonade.

MAP REF: D7 ANIMALS

MUSE KITCHEN Keith Tulloch Wines, Lot 17 Hermitage Rd Pokolbin PH 4998-7899 This modern European style restaurant is the latest venture for husband and wife team Troy and Megan Rhoades - Brown who established Muse Kitchen to complement their already highly popular Muse Restaurant. Tastefully decorated with French provincial furnishings, this charming and welcoming little restaurant is located at the Keith Tulloch wine complex on Hermitage Rd and is a beautiful venue to treat yourself Muse Kitchen boasts a more personal approach to to that perfect lunch. After a food, wine and service delivering European inspired visit to Muse Kitchen it’s easy food that is season and produce driven. to see why it is now considered Muse Kitchen - where hearty regional fare is served with one of the most enjoyable dining little fuss in an obliging and relaxed environment. experiences in the Hunter Valley.

www.musedining.com.au muse@musedining.com.au DINING STYLE European OPENING HOURS LUNCH Wed to Sun 12PM - 3PM DINNER Sat 6PM - 9PM GROUPS Groups welcome Set menus available Private functions by request PRICE GUIDE Main meals from $36 AWARDS SMH Good Food Guide One Chefs Hat 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 & 2017 HEAD CHEF Sean Townsend

MAP REF: D2 22

POKOLBIN NORTH

OAKVALE WINES 1596 Broke Rd Pokolbin PH 4998-7088

www.oakvalewines.com.au info@oakvalewines.com.au

EXPERIENCE THE NEW HUNTER Looking for a new experience in the Hunter Valley? Drop in to Oakvale Wines. Our family-owned winery is breathing new life into the traditional winery scene, with a passion for viticultural practices and minimal intervention winemaking. Our fresh, vibrant and elegant wines are sold exclusively through our welcoming cellar door, which sits at the foothills of the Brokenback Range. And as one of the Hunter’s only cider producers, Oakvale oﬀers visitors a taste of its refreshing gourmet ciders and Bellini. Every face behind our cellar door is warm and receptive to all kinds of questions – from local knowledge and regional characteristics to insightful wine-tasting education. Come join us for a taste of the new Hunter Valley.

PEACOCK HILL 29 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998-7661

WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM to 5PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS By appointment only. $5 per person “tasting donation” goes towards our work with Meals On Wheels. We produce 65,000 piccolos of wine each year, which are donated to Meals On Wheels customers. Oakvale Wines is the only winery in the country to take part in such an initiative. SPECIALTIES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Apple Cider, Pear Cider & Bellini WINEMAKER James Becker RESTAURANT EXP Restaurant

MAP REF: F2

www.peacockhill.com.au info@peacockhill.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 DAYS 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day WHITE WINES Chardonnay RED WINES Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon/ Cabernet Franc/ Merlot SPARKLING Blanc de Blanc FORTIFIED Port Style, Dessert Wine SPECIALTIES Food friendly easy drinking styles, Classically dry styles PRICING From $15 - $80 / bottle

Celebrating 21 years with the release of our 2013 Godfather Sparkling MCZD... Experience our hospitality and love of life as we guide you through our unique range of handcrafted wines: Absent Friends, Fond Memories, Urban Myths, Godfather, Good Company and more. We look forward to welcoming you.

MAP REF: E8 POKOLBIN NORTH

RIDGEVIEW 273 Sweetwater Rd, Pokolbin PH 6574-7332 We invite you to try our estate grown, trophy winning wines from Riedel glasses. From our renowned “Generations” Reserve Semillon & Shiraz through to an eclectic mix of little known varietals, all wines are handcrafted in small batches and designed to accompany food. Fresh oils, balsamics and condiments are prepared daily from our restaurant to sample whilst tasting. The personal service we provide makes the diﬀerence.

“Our Passion, Your Reward” Darren & Tracey Scott

Set overlooking our picturesque vineyards, RidgeView Restaurant is the perfect setting for our ‘sharing’ style menu. Using the freshest produce from our onsite organic kitchen garden our Mediterranean and Middle Eastern inspired cuisine is designed as sharing dishes known as “Mezedhes”. With a choice of meat, seafood and vegetarian options we cater for all dietary requirements. For those with time and an appetite we oﬀer our signature “Cypriot Meze”; a feast designed for 2 or more and comprising 12 Mezedhes dishes over 4 courses. Whether a couple or a group, slowly graze al fresco on our verandah overlooking the picturesque vineyards - the perfect casual dining experience. RidgeView wines are also available at cellar door prices.

www.ridgeview.com.au dine@ridgeview.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Wed to Sun 10AM to 5PM GROUPS Bookings Essential WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Viognier, Traminer, Pinot Gris, Botrytis Semillon, Late Harvest Viognier and other blends RED WINES Shiraz, Merlot, Chambourcin, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet/Merlot, Moscato and other blends SPARKLING Pinot Noir/Chardonnay, Shiraz FORTIFIED WINES Shiraz, Verdelho WINEMAKER Darren Scott, Gary Maclean & Mark Woods PRICE RANGE From $20 - $50/bottle RESTAURANT OPENING HOURS BREAKFAST Fri - Sun From 9AM LUNCH Thurs - Sun From Midday All Day Dining DINNER Thurs & Sun (early dining) Fri & Sat until late - bookings essential DINING STYLE ‘Mezedhes’ - sharing dishes. Signature taste plate with matching wines (samples of 3 mezedhes perfectly paired to estate grown wines). 2 course ‘Meze Feast’ - 8 Mezedhes dishes (allow 2 hours for a relaxed dining experience). $65pp or $75 with paired wines. 4 course ‘Meze Feast’ - 12 Mezedhes dishes (allow 3 hours for a relaxed dining experience) Alfresco dining overlooking our picturesque vineyards. $79pp or $99 with paired wines. • Onsite organic kitchen garden • Gluten free and vegetarian options • Alfresco dining overlooking our picturesque vineyards

MAP REF: B4 24

POKOLBIN NORTH

THE VERANDAH RESTAURANT Palmers Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998-7231 With sweeping views over the vineyards, Brokenback Range and manicured estate, all weather dining on the verandah or inside by the ﬁre place on those cold winter nights, the Verandah Restaurant provides a dining experience that encapsulates the essence of the Hunter lifestyle. A modern Tapas style menu showcasing the best local produce ensures your time at The Verandah Restaurant will be one to remember. The Verandah Restaurant is the ultimate in dining for those who enjoy Modern Australian Food Served tapas Style. After Tapas try our sensational Soft Centred Chocolate Souﬄes our “Signature Dessert!”

www.verandahrestaurant.com.au

bookings@verandahrestaurant.com.au

DINING STYLE Casual Tapas Style Dining OPENING HOURS LUNCH 7 days 12PM - 4PM DINNER Thurs - Sun 6PM - LATE GROUPS Groups menus available with a range of diﬀerent prices SPECIALTIES Lunch time Tapas Towers Modern Australian Tapas Soft Centred Chocolate Souﬄés

MAP REF: E7

THOMAS WINES Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998-7134 Thomas Wines is one of the Hunter Valley’s most renowned winemakers, nationally and internationally acclaimed for their exceptional Hunter Valley Semillon and Shiraz wines. ‘Keep it simple’ is the philosophy, producing small parcels of world class, uniquely regional wines from some of the most distinguished sites in the Hunter. Owner and winemaker Andrew Thomas now has three decades of winemaking experience in the Hunter Valley. It’s the no compromise, attention to detail approach to his winemaking that has seen him twice awarded Hunter Valley Winemaker of the Year, as well as contributing to an impressive mantelpiece of wine show trophies and medals, and enviable critical acclaim.

www.thomaswines.com.au cellardoor@thomaswines.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 Days 10AM – 5PM Closed Christmas Day & Good Friday GROUPS Bookings essential for groups over 6 people AWARDS 2017 Hunter Valley Cellar Door of the Year PRICE RANGE From $20 - $75/bottle

MAP REF: C2 Visit Tintilla Estate to try their range of olives and Olive products

POKOLBIN NORTH

TINTILLA ESTATE 725 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin PH 6574-7093 You are always welcome at Tintilla

www.tintilla.com.au info@tintilla.com.au

•Family Run, Single Vineyard Estate & Winery

WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10.30AM to 6PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Bookings Essential WINEMAKERS James Lusby & Robert Lusby PRICE RANGE $20 to $60/bottle

•Estate Grown and Made Olives, Tepanade, Jams & Relishes James Halliday Australian Wine Companion Winery

MAP REF: C2

TWO FAT BLOKES GOURMET KITCHEN De-Iuliis Wines 1616 Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-6699 Great casual dining at it’s best • Lunch, cheese, coﬀee and sweets • Wine and food matching tasting plates • Beer and food matching tasting plates

Cheese and wine tutorials at 11am and 2.30pm, 7 days - $25 pp.

www.twofatblokes.com.au info@twofatblokes.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 DAYS 10AM - 5PM Breakfast Sat & Sun from 9AM Lunch served until 3PM PRICE GUIDE Main Meal $20 - $30

Bookings essential. MAP REF: F2

Specialising in Semillon and Shiraz Keeping it simple.

2017 Hunter Valley Cellar Door of the Year Come visit our Cellar Door

Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin NSW 2320

PH (02) 4998 7134 E cellardoor@thomaswines.com.au W www.thomaswines.com.au 26

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COFFEE

Obsessive

WORDS Quentin von Essen

Australia’s love affair with coffee is stronger than ever; in fact, it’s become a way of life. We take our coffee very seriously in this part of the world and in a very short period (less than 25 years), we have become a land of coffee obsessives, a nation of people unafraid to declare that our coffee is, in fact, better than others. It’s shaped our countries culture, 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 who gets to prepare and serve our daily latte.

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. And why shouldn't we expect the best? With the origin of coffee dating back to the 9th century and with more than a thousand years of exposure to different cultures, it’s had plenty of opportunities to reach perfection. 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 and with them came a love for espresso. In the early 1950’s, fine Italian coffee houses with their espresso machines began to pop up in Sydney and Melbourne and from there to every other city in Australia. 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 that include Istanbul, Rome,Vienna, and Addis Ababa. (Continued) ▶ ISSUE #13 2017 | 27

Specialty Coffee blend – an in-house, award-winning milk-based coffee from Mill House Roasters.

(Continued) Yes – we do love our coffee and 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 to consider. The Deck Café at Gartelmann Estate in picturesque Lovedale take their coffee very seriously and serve one of the best blends around - a Piazza D'Oro Espresso premium coffee blend which has a distinctive espresso character. From delicate yet complex, to rich, full-bodied dark roast, these carefully blended and slowly roasted coffees have been especially developed to offer regional taste nuances. Known for their outstanding breakfasts and lunches (served with a glass of sparkling wine or two), Restaurant Cuvee is highly regarded 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. The supporting origins blended to create an easy-drinking coffee with well-balanced acidity and sweetness. Apart from being the sweetest spot in the Hunter Valley, Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar on Broke Rd in Pokolbin also serve up a wonderful blend of coffee to go with their desserts. The blend they use is the Glinelli 28 | ISSUE #13 2017

Located at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, the family-friendly crews at And The Winner is Oscars and the Hunter Valley Chocolate Co. strive to deliver great service along with their wonderful blends of coffee and the opportunity to take a break from a busy day of wine-tasting or shopping. Local favourite and serving breakfast and lunch seven days a week, Epicure Café has some of the best coffee around, and they keep it local by using beans from local Newcastle speciality roaster - Peaberry’s. They also offer an extensive list of beer and wine – some of which are available for tasting at the adjoining cellar door. Another top coffee spot is Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen. Located on Broke Road with its Tuscan-style setting and comfy indoor and outdoor seating, it’s the perfect venue for that casual breakfast or lunch or sipping on a steamy mug of Crema Coffee. Well-positioned at Pokolbin Village, with the option to dine inside or outside on the expansive verandah, Buon Cibo serves breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea as well as a delicious blend of Peabody’s coffee thrown into the mix. Another local favourite place to have a meal – breakfast or lunch, is Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen in Pokolbin. With its superb vineyard views, it's the ideal 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.

Introducing the Hunter Valley's

The Lad y in

Pin k

POKOLBIN ESTATE

...

VIN EYARD

Tempranillo | Nebbiolo | Sangiovese | Nebbiolo Rosé Get your taste for adventure today at ...Pokolbin Estate. Winery – 2017 James Halliday Australian Wine Companion

Pokolbin Estate Vineyard 298 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin | Open 7 Days 9am - 5pm PH 4998 7524 | www.pokolbinestate.com.au ISSUE #13 2017 | 29

CASUARINA ESTATE RESTAURANT So Much to Enjoy! It was always going to be interesting returning to Casuarina Restaurant almost 17 years since our last visit to this iconic Hunter Valley restaurant. In the 1990’s, Casuarina Estate Restaurant (located on Casuarina Estate) had a reputation for being one of the finest dining establishments in the Hunter Valley. It received numerous awards that included the Restaurant-Catering Association Best Restaurant award for four years running, the American Express Best Restaurant in the Northern Region for four years and inducted into the American Express Hall of Fame. Casuarina Estate was sold in 2000 and operated with varying degrees of success until 2015 when purchased by local businessman Dallas Rosekelly, who immediately set about restoring the property and renowned restaurant to its former glory. 30 | ISSUE #13 2017

On walking into the restaurant, we were immediately welcomed by the familiar face of Michael Watson - the restaurants former Sous Chef who worked with the original owner and master chef Peter Meier for ten years. Michael was back behind the pans to lead the restaurant into a new era as its head chef. It is easy to see why this is one of the Hunter Valley’s most iconic restaurants. Here everything is large in style, size and comfort. The restaurant has undergone an extensive renovation, which included refurbishing the kitchen and installing a new bar area, outdoor seating area, carpet and lighting. The dining room was also modernised with a nod to the building’s heritage and features dark vaulted ceilings and stunning modern industrial drop lights. The menu is well organised with a wide variety of mouth-watering entrées, mains and desserts available from the kitchen, such as Oxtail Soup, Seared Tasmanian

Chef Michael Watson

Chicken & Prawn Jambalaya

Scallops, Twice Cooked Quail, Eggplant Cannelloni, Poached Prawn and Avocado Salad, Lamb Rump Sous Vide, Seared Tuna and Spatchcock, as well as a good selection of puddings, tarts, cakes and cheeses. This is modern Australian cuisine with a fine dining touch.

this dish as it includes a mix of chicken, prawns, double smoked ham, chorizo, herbs and Cajun spiced sauce finished with rice cooked in a single pan for a really tasty meal and accompanied with spiced potato and greens.

We were pleased to see that one of the most hotly anticipated additions was included on the menu – flambé dishes. Prepared at the table and serving two, there is a flambé sure to suit every taste, with selections including Chilli Scampi and King Prawns, Chicken and Prawn Jambalaya, Hunter Beef and Thai Chicken and Prawn Curry.

This was a wonderfully rich flavoured and complex dish which looked and tasted spectacular – its gutsy flavours underpinned by base notes of onion, capsicum and celery with the usual spices adding a “kick”. The trio of protein was unified by the rice in this Southern take on a Spanish paella, which went well with a flavoursome Rosé.

From the entrée menu, we chose the Steak Tartare – a French favourite and the Poached Prawn and Avocado Salad with shaved fennel. Both dishes were superb. The widely recognised steak tartare was prepared and seasoned at the table using an array of traditional ingredients that include onions, capers, gherkins and generous splashes of Worcestershire sauce and tabasco and served (raw) with toasted sourdough. In the hands of a trained chef, steak tartare can be a truly beautiful thing, and this delicious classic appetiser was skillfully prepared, with the spices and tabasco seasoning providing a nice complex edge to the meal. There were quite a few unique and noticeable flavours in the dish, all of them working in unison to create an utterly delicious meal and wonderful with a glass of Pinot Noir.

For dessert, our choice of Espresso Crème Brûlée and Steamed Vanilla Pudding arrived beautifully presented – with the creme brûlée delightfully velvety and the espresso flavour just strong enough. The steamed vanilla pudding arrived served with pecan nuts and a delicious brandied butterscotch sauce. The perfect end to a wonderful dinner.

The flambés are prepared at the table for two, and we decided upon the exotic sounding Chicken and Prawn Jambalaya – a classic Cajun dish, inspired by both French and Spanish cuisines. Served within the southern states of USA (especially Louisiana), the word “Jambalaya” means jumbled or mixed up. It is a great way to describe

There is so much to love about this iconic restaurant that you need to experience for yourself. Welcome back Michael! a Salt&Peppa review

Steak Tartare ISSUE #13 2017 | 31

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Goldfish Bar and Kitchen

Gundog Estate

Hanging Tree Wines

Harrigan’s Irish Pub

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Hunter Beer Co

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Iron Gate Estate

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Petersons Wines

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Restaurant Eighty Eight

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Tamburlaine Organic Wines

The Brickworks Brasserie

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Visit Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village. With speciality shops, restaurants and cafes, hair and beauty salon, putt putt and aqua golf plus the amazing display gardens, it is a guaranteed fun day out for the whole family! Broke Road, Pokolbin.

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This area of Pokolbin is synonymous with all things relating to wine and food, and is internationally recognised for its world class vineyards and restaurants, some vineyards being in operation for well over 120 years. Pokolbin is considered the "hub" of the Hunter Valley wine region and where the largest collection of wineries, accommodation and restaurants can be found.

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Pokolbin South Trail is located on the southern side of Pokolbin - stretching from Broke Road to Oakey Creek Road. It includes some of the most highly regarded and award winning restaurants and wines available in the Hunter.

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Ernest Hill Wines The Brickworks Brasserie & Hunter Beer Co.

Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen

Locavore Dining & Epoche Lounge Bar

Ivanhoe Wines

Drayton’s Family Wines

Wynwood Estate

Hanging Tree Wines

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AND THE WINNER IS OSCARS Shop 15, HVG, Broke Road Pokolbin PH 4998-7355 And the Winner is Oscars Café is located in the Hunter Valley Gardens Village. We serve honest wholesome food in a relaxed environment. We have a delicious breakfast menu, morning tea options, gourmet lunch options, great GLEE coﬀee and an ice creamery. All of our menus are available to dine in or take away. We accommodate for groups and have set menus, high teas and picnic hampers available. Come in and meet our friendly team or call 4998 7355 to book now.

info@thewinnerisoscars.com.au OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday 9AM - 4PM Sat & Sun 8AM - 4PM DINING STYLE •Family Friendly •Casual Environment •Vegetarians & GF options available •Dine in & Takeaway GROUPS •Welcome •Set menu available upon request PRICE GUIDE From $15 to $30. BYO, no corkage!

MAP REF: C3

BLAXLAND INN 2198 Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7550

www.blaxlandinn.com.au info@blaxlandinn.com.au OPENING HOURS Open 7 Days LUNCH 12PM - 3PM DINNER 6PM - 9PM CLOSED Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day

Famous for Steaks, Boutique Wines & Country Hospitality. NOW OPEN 7 DAYS! Blaxland Inn, established in 1976 and nestled in the heart of the Hunter Valley, offers a relaxing experience with a country atmosphere. It is the perfect place for a great meal with family and friends, or a cold drink after a long day of exploring all the beautiful Hunter Valley has to offer.

DINING STYLE Casual and Alfresco Dining GROUPS Welcome. Group menu available. SPECIALITIES & AWARDS Trip Advisor Restaurant Excellence Award PRICE GUIDE Main meals from $15 - $36

Offering a warm country ambiance, with friendly staff and great value meals, a trip to the Hunter Valley would not be complete without calling in to see us. Dine inside by our open fire, or outside under the stars. With an outdoor campfire, you can relax and unwind whilst enjoying a truly Australian experience. With steaks from the grills, salads and burgers you’ll be sure to find something to please. You might also be tempted to try our famous deep dish pie! 34

POKOLBIN SOUTH

MAP REF: C5

BUON CIBO CAFÉ/RISTORANTE Pokolbin Village, 2188 Broke Rd Pokolbin PH 4998-7945 Buon Cibo Ristorante is an exciting new Italian restaurant, situated within Pokolbin Village in the heart of the Hunter Valley, close to cellar doors, Hunter Valley Gardens and all concert venues. It’s the place for Breakfast & Lunch in the Hunter Valley! Casual, relaxed al-fresco dining at it’s best, offering a contemporary menu consisting of Italian flavours focusing on local produce that changes seasonally, with a predominantly Hunter wine list to complement your selections.

www.buoncibo.com.au buoncibo@bigpond.com DINING STYLE Casual Café Style Dining OPENING HOURS Fri - Mon All day dining - 8AM - Late Tues - Thurs Breakfast 8AM - 11AM, lunch from 12PM GROUPS Bookings Essential SPECIALITIES Fully Licensed Takeaways available

MAP REF: C4

DRAYTON’S FAMILY WINES 555 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7513 Drayton’s Family Wines is proud to be one of the oldest, 100% family-owned producers of quality wines. Their range of wines is indicative of the Hunter’s best and a visit to the cellar door will provide you with an authentic Hunter Valley Wine Country experience. It has been over one hundred and sixty years since the first Drayton trod on rich Hunter Valley soil. Joseph Drayton first arrived in the Hunter Valley from Lincolnshire, England, in 1853. By the end of that decade the first Drayton’s wines were being produced. Today, a combination of over 160 years of winemaking expertise, vines that are 100+ years old, modern winemaking techniques and equipment, allow the Drayton Family to

proudly produce wines of outstanding quality and standing.

www.draytonswines.com.au drink@draytonswines.com.au

Drayton’s Family Wines provides something for everyone under the labels of Oakey Creek, New Generation, Hunter Valley, Vineyard Reserve and Heritage Vines. The range of Limited Release wines are also of exceptional quality. Drayton’s Family Wines are also prominent producers of premium ports and fortified wines, with one of the largest ranges of fortifieds in Hunter Valley Wine Country.

WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days Mon - Fri 8AM - 5PM Sat & Sun 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Welcome. We recommend bus groups make a booking

Open 7 days, winery tours are available by appointment as well as private group tastings in our ‘Log Press Room’. To complete your visit the Drayton’s Log Press Cafe offers delicious morning teas, lunch and afternoon teas in a relaxed friendly atmosphere.

Pioneers of the Hunter – Since 1853

WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Traminer, Verdelho, Sauvignon Blanc RED WINES Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz Tempranillo FORTIFIED WINES Vast range of fortified wines including Liqueur Verdelho & 1978 Tawny SPARKLING Traditional & Charmat AWARDS Over the past 20 years the Liqueur Verdelho has been awarded 10 x Gold, 10 x Top Gold & 12 x Trophies. WINEMAKER Edgar Vales PRICE RANGE From $15 - $150/bottle

WINERY TOURS

MAP REF: F3 POKOLBIN SOUTH

RE CREATI NG HISTORY Bringing the old vines back to their former glory...

310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin 2320 PH (02) 4998 7885 E cellar@wynwoodestate.com.au www.wynwoodestate.com.au

ÉLÉMENTS Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-2000 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.

www.mercurehuntervalley.com.au reception@mercurehuntervalley.com.au

OPENING HOURS Lunch 12PM - 5PM Dinner 5.30PM - 9PM Open on Christmas for lunch only Bookings in advance

MAP REF: C3

EPICURE CAFÉ 2/426 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin PH 4998-6665 Epicure Café is nestled in the heart of wine country offering a relaxed casual dining experience. Open for breakfast and lunch seven days a week. Dine indoor or out on our covered terrace and take in the stunning setting overlooking water views. The menu is simple and fresh with seasonal changes using local produce. The Café also offers an extensive wine list, local beers on tap and craft beers along with friendly and informative service.

eat@epicurecafe.com.au OPENING HOURS Open 7 Days Mon - Fri 9AM to 3PM Sat & Sun 9AM to 4PM GROUPS Welcome Bookings essential. Group Menu available for groups of 10 or more. PRICE GUIDE $16 to $28

MAP REF: C4

Indulge in handmade chocolate and fudge at Hunter Valley Chocolate Company

POKOLBIN SOUTH

ERNEST HILL WINES 307 Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba PH 4991-4418 www.ernesthillwines.com.au wines@ernesthillwines.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 Days 10AM to 5PM, Closed on Christmas Day & New Years Day GROUPS Groups welcome

It’s our pleasure to be part of your Unique Wines • Sample our delicious quartet of unique wine journey… Unique & Boutique • Family owned and operated. Call in and meet the Wilson family. • Wines exclusive to the Cellar Door and selected local restaurants Internationally Acclaimed Wines • We are passionate about the quality of our wines and our winemaking practices, which enable us to produce wines of the highest quality. • Home of the multi-award winning ‘Cyril’ semillon, ‘Alexander’ chardonnay and the ‘William Henry’ shiraz

lighter style dessert wines. The ‘Silver Moon’ Botrytis Semillon, the red and white moscato styles, ‘Luna Spark’ and ‘Luna Rouge’ and our late harvest Gewurztraminer ‘Moondance’. • Complete the tasting with our luscious liqueur Muscat, the 11 O’Clocker. Excellent Service • Friendly and informative service in the relaxed surroundings of our picturesque cellar door, with spectacular views of the Hunter Valley.

WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Unwooded Chardonnay, Moscato Style Semillon, Dessert Gewurztraminer, Sparkling Chardonnay RED WINES Shiraz, Merlot, Tempranillo, Cabernet, Shiraz (Rosé), Moscato (Red) SPECIALTIES & AWARDS Estate grown Tempranillo, Merlot/ Cabernet Range of lighter style sweet wines. Reserve William Henry Shiraz, Reserve Alexander Chardonnay, Liqueur Muscat 11 O’Clocker WINEMAKER Mark Woods PRICE RANGE From $14 - $70/bottle

MAP REF: E7

GOLDFISH At Roche Estate - Cnr Broke & McDonald’s Rds, Pokolbin PH 4998-7688 www.thegoldfish.com.au infohv@thegoldfish.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 Days Midday - Late Open for lunch and dinner GROUPS Small to large welcome Bookings required functions@thegoldfish.com.au VENUE STYLE Cocktail Bar DINING STYLE Casual share style AWARDS • 2015 R&C Awards – ‘Regional Small Bar & Tourism Restaurant’ Finalist • 2016 R&C Awards – ‘Beer Café/ Wine Bar’ & ‘People, Produce Place Tourism Restaurant’ Finalists • Bartender Magazine Bar Awards – Best Regional Bar – Finalist 2015/16. SPECIALTIES World-Class Cocktails, Must-have Pizzas, Child Friendly, Vegetarian Menu Options, Terrace Dining MAIN MEAL PRICE $19 - $34

Open til late Friday & Saturday 38

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MAP REF: C4

GUNDOG ESTATE 101 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-6873 “Best Small Cellar Door – Lower Hunter” Gourmet Traveller WINE Magazine 2013 “Five Red Star Winery” 2017 James Halliday Wine Companion

Gundog Estate is a boutique wine producer owned and operated by the Burton family. Our passion for high quality, regionally distinct wine has inspired us to pursue two of Australia’s most unique and highly acclaimed varieties - Semillon & Shiraz. The Gundog Hunter Cellar & Gourmet Pantry offers a premium Hunter Valley tasting experience like no other. Set in the historical Pokolbin Schoolhouse, visitors not only have the chance to taste and purchase our range of premium, award winning wines, but to also discover a hand-picked selection of gourmet products reflecting our quality over quantity philosophy. The personalised and relaxed ambience of the Gundog Hunter Cellar & Gourmet Pantry is complimented by our cheese and charcouterie plates, and carefully sourced fine teas and coffee.

www.gundogestate.com.au sales@gundogestate.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM-5PM Closed Christmas Day & Good Friday GROUPS Maximum group size 12 people WHITE WINES Semillon RED WINES Shiraz FORTIFIED WINES Muscat AWARDS - Numerous Gold and Silver Medals in 2016; Hunter Valley Wine Show, NSW Small Winemakers Show, Winewise Small Vigneron Awards, Royal Queensland Wine Show SPECIALTIES Semillon & Shiraz WINEMAKER Matt Burton PRICE RANGE From $30 to $60/bottle

MAP REF: E2

Gundog – Redeﬁning the tasting experience

HANGING TREE WINES 294 O’Connors Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-6608 Hanging Tree Wines offers one of the most welcoming cellar doors in the Hunter Valley - housed within an old cow-shed and surrounded by vines, rose-beds, horse-whispering lodge and an original blacksmith’s cottage. The Hanging Tree stands tall at the entrance of the property - the site where beasts (and rumoured bushrangers), from the first settlement, were hung. Hanging Tree grapes are handpicked from aged vines and handcrafted to produce various red, white, sparkling, and fortified wines. So come book your next BBQ, picnic, function HANGING TREE WINES or getaway, or pop in today to taste our award-winning wines! HUNTER VALLEY AUSTRALIA

www.hangingtreewines.com.au info@hangingtreewines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 days 10AM to 5PM Closed Christmas Day & New Year’s Day GROUPS Welcome on booking WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay RED WINES Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Grenache, Merlot, Blends FORTIFIED WINES Port, Botrytis Semillon, Reserve Aged Muscat SPARKLING Brut, Moscato SPECIALTIES & AWARDS Hunter Valley Boutique Wine Makers Show - Silver & Bronze Medals, Cowra Wine Show - Silver & Bronze Awards WINEMAKERS Michael Hudson and Gary MacLean PRICE RANGE From $25 - $80/bottle

MAP REF: F6 POKOLBIN SOUTH

HARRIGANS IRISH PUB Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-4300 Harrigan’s Irish Pub offers excellent meals with generous servings in a friendly relaxed atmosphere at affordable prices. The bistro at Harrigan’s is well known for its great service and value for money. A popular stable of hearty pub meals, including the Beef & Guinness Pie, provide tourists and locals alike with a great alternative to café & restaurant meals. With an open fire in the cooler months and an extensive deck and outdoor dining area available on warmer days there are heaps of options at Harrigan’s! On the weekends a free jumping castle is on hand for the kids and regular promotions, events and live entertainment ensure there’s always something happening.

www.harrigans.com.au enquiries@harrigans.com.au DINING STYLE Casual pub-style dining OPENING HOURS BREAKFAST 7 Days 7AM - 10.30AM LUNCH 7 Days 12PM - 3PM DINNER 7 Nights 5.30PM - 9.30PM CLOSED 25th December GROUPS Bookings essential SPECIALTIES Beef & Guinness Pie Good hearty traditional pub meals AWARDS Sydney Morning Herald - Top 3 Best Country Pubs 2010. Score 18/20 PRICE GUIDE Main meals from $18.90 to $39

The sports bar features a pool table and the only TAB in the winery precinct. Good times, great food and cool ale are always standard fare at Harrigan’s Irish Pub.

MAP REF: C3

HUNGERFORD HILL 2450 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998-7666 www.hungerfordhill.com.au wines@hungerfordhill.com.au OPENING HOURS Daily 10AM – 5PM CLOSED Christmas Day GROUPS Welcome. Bookings essential

Established in 1967, Hungerford Hill is a boutique estate in the heart of the Hunter Valley. The Hungerford Hill team, in partnership with acclaimed on-site Muse Restaurant, works tirelessly to build on the winery’s proud reputation for distinguished wines and to create a memorable cellar door experience. Guided by accomplished winemakers, Hungerford Hill aspires to produce outstanding wines packed with character and interest, with a focus on the Hunter Valley and New South Wales’ cool climate regions of Hilltops and Tumbarumba. 40

POKOLBIN SOUTH

WHITE WINES Semillon, Fiano, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris/Grigio, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Botrytis Semillon RED WINES Rosé, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Tempranillo, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon SPARKLING Sparkling Dalliance (Methode Traditionelle), Sparkling Cardinal (Shiraz), Moscato FORTIFIED WINES Liqueur Shiraz, Liqueur Muscat WINEMAKER Bryan Currie PRICE RANGE From $22 to $120/ bottle AWARDS 2017 Halliday 5-star rated winery, Gourmet Traveller Australia’s Best Cellar Door Awards 2017 – Cellar Door with Best Food MAP REF: C7

HUNTER VALLEY CHOCOLATE COMPANY PH 4991-3008 www.hvchocolate.com.au admin@hvchocolate.com.au RETAIL OUTLETS Twenty-3-Twenty 2320 Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-6999 The Stonehouse @ Peterson House, 2 Broke Rd, Pokolbin. PH 4998-7301 Shop 5, HV Gardens Village Broke Rd, Pokolbin. PH 4998-7221

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!

OPENING HOURS All stores OPEN 7 DAYS Opening hours will vary from store to store. From 9 or 9.30AM to 4PM or 5PM with 2320 Broke Rd Open until 5PM weekends and Public Holidays. Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Bus groups most welcome with bookings advised SPECIALTIES Hand made chocolates and fudge, candy, gourmet produce and gift items

ALL STORES OPEN 7 DAYS!

MAP REF: C3/C6

For an altogether sweet experience, a visit to Sabor in the Hunter’s Dessert Bar is a MUST! The Sabor Dessert Menu features over 50 different desserts, each one created individually.Pair something delicious with a Hunter Valley wine, indulge in decadent cakes, handmade chocolate or gourmet ice cream, and enjoy barista made Glinelli coffee.

Enjoy a world of desserts at Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar Pokolbin! Located at Lambloch Estate 2342 Broke Road, Pokolbin • PH 1300 958 939 Open Thurs & Fri 10am - 4.30pm, Sat 10am - 9.30pm, Sun & Mon 10am - 4.30pm

www.saborinthehunter.com.au

POKOLBIN SOUTH

HUNTERS QUARTER 576 De Beyers Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7776

www.huntersquarter.com.au info@huntersquarter.com.au

Hunters Quarter (HQ) is a relaxed and elegant dining destination, located in the Cockfighters Ghost Vineyard of Pokolbin, in the heart of the picturesque Hunter Valley. Inspired by his international culinary experiences chef Brian Duncan’s menu combines first-class ingredients, bright, balanced flavours and expert technique. Our innovative menu is inspired by the area’s local and seasonal produce, and its dishes deliver balanced pure flavours and textures.

OPENING HOURS Lunch Thursday - Sunday 12PM - 3.30PM Dinner Thursday - Saturday & Monday 6PM till late Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Welcome. Group menu available DINING STYLE Smart Casual. Vegetarian, GF, Vegan, DF menu available. PRICE GUIDE From $15 to $35 OTHER OFFERINGS Live entertainment on Sundays Weddings & Corporate Events Private Bookings Oﬀsite Catering

Hunters Quarter is a dining space with something for everyone – whatever the occasion, come and discover a contemporary dining experience with welcoming service in a unique and beautiful setting.

MAP REF: D3

IRON GATE ESTATE Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-6570 Iron Gate Estate is one of the Hunters newest boutique wineries. The Estate oﬀers true Hunter Wines, produced from grapes grown in its own vineyard and picked by hand. The winery incorporates the latest technology in wine making and is designed to enable small parcels of selected grapes to be crafted individually to provide the highest possible quality.

www.irongateestate.com sales@irongateestate.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES 7 Days 10AM - 4PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day GROUPS Less than 26 welcome WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho and blends RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and blends SPARKLING Semillon/Verdelho, Shiraz/Cabernet SPECIALTIES Sweet Table Wines WINEMAKER Roger Lilliott PRICE RANGE From $25 - $40/bottle

MAP REF: G7 42

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IVANHOE WINES 525 Marrowbone Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7325 Home of the Big & Gutsy Reds. Come in and try our range of premium and boutique wines, experience the knowledgeable service and enjoy spectacular views.

www.ivanhoewines.com.au tracy@ivanhoewines.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES 7 Days 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Good Friday and Anzac Day GROUPS Welcome. Bookings essential for buses and large groups PRICE RANGE $20 - $70/ Bottle WHITE WINES Chardonnay, Semillon, Verdelho, Botrytis Semillon, Moscato RED WINES Shiraz, Chambourcin, Shiraz Cabernet, Shiraz Grenache, Shiraz Pressings (Big Red)

of 2015 CERTIFICATE EXCELLENCE

SPARKLING Sparkling Maiden (Moscato/Traminer blend), Sparking Chambourcin FORTIFIED WINES Aged Liqueur Verdelho, Tawny Port

MAP REF: F2

LAMBLOCH ESTATE 2342 Broke Rd Pokolbin PH 4998-6722

www.lambloch.com cellardoor@lambloch.com TASTING & WINE SALES 7 Days 10AM - 5PM CLOSED Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day GROUPS Bookings needed for 8 or more.

There is no other Cellar Door quite like Lambloch Estate. The picturesque views of the vineyard are set on the stunning backdrop of the Broken Back Range, and offers the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and enjoy some of the Hunters finest premium wines. A taste of The Loch Shiraz whilst visiting this modern cellar door, is a must for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life, with a 96 point rating, 3 years running from James Halliday. Planted in the 1950’s on prized volcanic loam soils, this wine is sure to impress even the toughest critics. If you’re looking for some fun and exciting wine the Flipside range will certainly please. The Flipside Shiraz and Semillon will amaze you with their unique semi-sweet fruit filled refreshing taste. Pokolbin Cider House is also located at Lambloch Estate and the range is absolutely fabulous! With Dark Grape the newest addition to the already popular apple and raspberry/cranberry, cider lovers will be in heaven.

WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Verdelho, Fume Blanc, Moscato RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet, Merlot CIDERS Apple, Perry, Raspberry/ Cranberry, Vintage Cider, Passionfruit, Dark Grape SPECIALTIES & AWARDS Highly rated Hunter Valley Shiraz- 96 points James Halliday in 2009/2010 PRICE RANGE From $19.50 - $95 per bottle

MAP REF: C6

POKOLBIN SOUTH

LOCAVORE DINING & EPOCHE BAR 336 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin PH 4998-7680 Locavore Dining OPEN 7 Days 6PM - 9.30PM GROUPS Welcome Bookings essential DINING STYLE Fine dining SPECIALITIES Locally sourced paddock to plate cuisine with matched wines, degustations, private dining PRICE GUIDE 2 Course $65, 3 Course $75, 5 Course $110

LOCAVORE DINING A Locavore is a person interested in eating food that is produced locally within 100 miles of home. Our delectable menu features ingredients from our own grounds at Kirkton Park and from local Hunter Valley producers. Join Executive Chef Chad Woolford and multi-award winning winemaker Liz Silkman (First Creek Wines, Silkman Wines) as we embark on a new journey to bring farmers and foodies together. Our mission is to change the way you feel about food and where it comes from. Farm. Forage. Graze.

EPOCHE LOUNGE BAR

Epoche Lounge Bar OPEN 7 days 11AM - Late GROUPS Welcome SPECIALITIES Sophisticated lounge bar with cocktails, local craft beers, Hunter Valley wines, wood ﬁred pizza, live music and an open ﬁre PRICE GUIDE Mains from $12 -$24

Introducing Epoche Lounge Bar, the Hunter Valley’s home of cocktails, local wines and craft beer. Enjoy burgers and tapas in front of our roaring open ﬁre or pizza from our outdoor wood ﬁred oven. MAP REF: F5

McLEISH ESTATE 462 De Beyers Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7754 Australia’s Most Awarded Boutique Winery Celebrating 32nd Vintage Family owned since 1985 Awarded at the 2016 London International Wine Challenge: TROPHY – World’s Best Semillon TROPHY – Australia’s Best Semillon TROPHY – NSW Best Semillon TROPHY Best Semillon at the 2016 Hunter Valley Boutique Wine Show FOUR TROPHIES Sydney Royal Wine Show Experience our ultra-premium range of Estate grown wines at our Boutique cellar door.

www.mcleishestatewines.com.au info@mcleishhunterwines.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES 7 Days 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day GROUPS By appointment WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho RED WINES Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz SPARKLING Culloden NV Duke Cuvee, Culloden NV Shiraz Cuvee DESSERT WINES Botrytis Semillon SPECIALTIES & AWARDS Specialising in Semillon & Shiraz WINEMAKER Andrew Thomas PRICE RANGE From $25 to $60/ bottle

MAP REF: E4

POKOLBIN SOUTH

MEEREA PARK 2144 Broke Rd (Cnr McDonalds Rd), Pokolbin PH 4998-7474 www.meereapark.com.au info@meereapark.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES 7 Days 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day & Good Friday GROUPS Groups of 10+ bookings essential

Meerea Park is owned by Rhys and Garth Eather and we handcraft our wines using fruit grown on some of the Hunter Valley’s oldest and best vineyard sites. We are Hunter Valley “terroirists”; specializing in individual vineyard Semillon and Shiraz, sourced from unique vineyard sites, each being quite diﬀerent, the wines expressing clearly where they are from. We seek out the oldest vineyards on the best soils that we can for our Shiraz and Semillon that have a track record for producing the best possible fruit in both good and not so good vintages. Please visit us to taste through our highly regarded range of wines, which includes many aged releases.

WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Marsanne Roussanne RED WINES Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Shiraz Pinot SPECIALTIES & AWARDS Five red star ranking by James Halliday in 2014 Wine Companion. A Top 100 Winery. Over 500 wine show medals since 1991. WINEMAKER Rhys Eather PRICE RANGE From $25 to $225/bottle

MAP REF: C4

MUSE RESTAURANT Hungerford Hill Wines, Broke Rd Pokolbin PH 4998-6777 In March 2009, owners Megan and Troy Rhoades-Brown opened Muse with the aim of evolving their establishment into one of Australia’s ﬁnest regional restaurants. Muse prides itself on genuine professional and friendly service in a world class setting. Working with the Hunter Valley’s best producers, showcasing beautifully reﬁned seasonal dishes.

At Muse, it’s not about dinner - it’s about dining.

www.musedining.com.au muse@musedining.com.au DINING STYLE Contemporary Australian, Fine Dining Restaurant OPENING HOURS LUNCH Sat & Sun 12PM - 3PM DINNER Wed to Sat 6.30PM - 10PM CLOSED Christmas Day GROUPS welcome Shortened & set menus available AWARDS SMH Good Food Guide Two Chefs Hats 2017, 2016 & 2015; One Chef Hat 2014, 2013, 2012 & 2011; 2015 Delicious Magazine Annual Produce Awards, Next Gen Chef - Troy Rhoades-Brown; Australia’s Hot 50 Restaurants 2015 & 2016 The Australian 2017 Financial review award HEAD CHEF Mitchell Beswick PRICE GUIDE 2 courses $75 pp, 3 courses $95 pp, degustation menus from $120 pp (Saturday dinner - degustation only)

MAP REF: C7 46

POKOLBIN SOUTH

NANNA KERR’S KITCHEN 16 Pokolbin Mountains Road, Pokolbin PH 4998-7333 Breakfast includes the signature Cashew Hollandaise and ‘Nanna’s Got a Sore Head’ with the option of an organic Chilli Vodka Bloody Mary. Lunch features a range of Nan’s favourites including homemade sausage rolls, the infamous pies (they are huge), Matty’s burger and Jimmy’s Liver & Love pate. High Teas are served all day everyday with no booking required. The specials menu changes daily and vegans are always well looked after.

www.nannakerrskitchen.com.au nan@nannakerrskitchen.com.au OPENING HOURS Open 7 Days from 9AM - 4PM for Brunch, Lunch and High Tea Private Dinner Parties by arrangement - call for more information Closed Christmas Day PRICE GUIDE From $20 to $35 DINING STYLE Australian with a modern, sometimes Italian Twist. Nan meets Nonna in the countryside. GROUPS Bookings required for 8+

MAP REF: F2

OISHII JAPANESE THAI RESTAURANT Cnr McDonalds & Broke Rd’s Pokolbin PH 4998-7051 Oishii Japanese and Thai at Roche Estate oﬀers a welcome unique dining alternative in the Hunter Valley. The authentic Asian restaurant oﬀers an award winning menu including popular favorites such as Sushi, Sashimi and Teppanyaki selections as well as fragrant Thai salads and curries. Many menu items can be adapted for vegetarians and gluten sensitive guests.

Most importantly it blends very well with the wines from the Hunter Valley. Oishii has become one of the favorite dining venues in the Hunter Valley as it oﬀers a sharing menu ideal and aﬀordable for families and parties. Join the many repeat patrons and enjoy the fare either inside the dining room, on the terrace overlooking the vineyards or choose the very popular take away option.

www.oishii.com.au info@oishii.com.au DINING STYLE Casual authentic Japanese and Thai Dining OPENING HOURS LUNCH 7 Days from 11.30AM - 3PM DINNER 7 Nights from 5.30PM-9.30PM CLOSED Christmas Day GROUPS Bookings preferred SPECIALTIES Sushi, Sashimi, Teppanyaki, Teriyaki PRICE GUIDE Starters $9 - $15 Mains $20 - $27

MAP REF: C4

POKOLBIN SOUTH

PETERSON HOUSE Cnr Broke Rd & Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin PH 4998-7881 Peterson House is unique to the Hunter Valley, as we specialise in premium sparkling wines made in the traditional method. We host a series of sparkling wine varieties, guaranteed to satisfy the discerning drinker. Our sparkling range consists of the easy drinking ‘Blush’ through to the premium blends and museum vintages enjoyed by all. If you are looking for a leisurely Sunday afternoon, look no further than Sunday Unvined at Peterson House. Take in the magnificent view whilst listening to live music every Sunday from 11am – 3pm.

www.petersonhouse.com.au bubbles@petersonhouse.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 Days 9AM to 5PM CLOSED Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day GROUPS Groups of 8 or more people require a booking WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay RED WINES Merlot, Shiraz SPARKLING Gateway, Cuvée Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Verdelho, Semillon Pinot, Chardonnay Pinot, Blanc de Blanc, Pinot Chardonnay Meunier, Pink Blush, Illusion Rosé, Moscato, Merlot, Shiraz, Chambourcin, Shiraz Voignier, Cabernet Sauvignon, Botrytis, Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Vermentino, Rouge Lisse, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Zibbibo, Brut Rosé FORTIFIED WINES Muscat, Shiraz WINEMAKER John Reid PRICE RANGE From $7 to $70/bottle MAP REF: C6

PETERSONS WINES 2347 Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7379 Widely renowned for our award winning wines, Petersons have been producing fine wines for over 30 years. We create classic wines such as Chardonnay, Semillon and Verdelho; to big rich, gutsy reds such as our Back Block Shiraz. For those who enjoy bubbles we have a delicious sparkling Moscato. Petersons Wines now have another ‘home’ in the Hunter Valley, with the opening of our new cellar door on Broke Road in the heart of Wine Country. Conveniently located just along the road from Peterson House. Come, visit our cellar door, enjoy the picturesque backdrop and meet our friendly staff. We will give you a warm welcome and offer a tasting of some of our award winning wines.

www.petersonswines.com.au brokeroad@petersonwines.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES 7 Days 10AM - 6PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day GROUPS Welcome. Please book in advance. WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Fume Blanc, Muscat, Verdelho, Riesling RED WINES Merlot, Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Chambourcin, Durif, Petit Verdot SPARKLING Sparkling Chardonnay, Moscato, Sparkling Red FORTIFIED WINES Cellar Port, Muscat SPECIALTIES Back Block Shiraz, Old Block Shiraz, Strikes Shiraz, Botrytis Semillon, Moscato WINEMAKER Gary Reed PRICE RANGE From $19.50 -$100 p/b MAP REF: C6

POKOLBIN SOUTH

RESTAURANT CUVEE Cnr Broke Rd & Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin PH 4998-7881 Restaurant Cuvee located at Peterson House oﬀers modern Australian cuisine at its best. Our a-la-carte menu has been designed using fresh local produce - with seasonal menu changes, you will be sure to ﬁnd something to please your palate. The romance of the building provides a beautiful setting for weddings, private functions, corporate dinners or any special occasion of celebration.

www.petersonhouse.com.au cuvee@petersonhouse.com.au DINING STYLE Casual Inside & Al Fresco Dining OPENING HOURS BREAKFAST 7 Days From 8.30AM - 11AM LUNCH 7 Days From 12PM - 3PM OYSTER BAR From 10am Sat & Sun CLOSED Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day GROUPS Welcome. For groups of 12 or more we have a group menu. Please contact us for further details. WEDDINGS For groups, 20 - 140 guests in Restaurant Cuvee. Marquee onsite can cater up to 220 guests. SPECIALTIES Bubbly Breakfasts PRICE GUIDE Breakfast from $18, Main Meals from $28

MAP REF: C6

Enjoy a pint and a meal at Harrigan’s Relax with live music every Saturday and Sunday afternoon, and party on with great bands every Friday and Saturday night! Relax and enjoy a hearty meal at Harrigan’s where you will be immersed in the authentic Irish décor and be surrounded by beautiful gardens, vineyards and mountains. Have a pint of Guinness, a glass of Hunter Shiraz in the Bistro or even “try the luck of the Irish” in the Sports bar.

Call 4998 4300

HARRIGANS.COM.AU - BROKE ROAD POKOLBIN

POKOLBIN SOUTH

POKOLBIN ESTATE 298 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7524 www.pokolbinestate.com.au sales@pokolbinestate.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 DAYS 9AM to 5PM OLIVE CENTRE 7 DAYS 9AM - 5PM (Olive tasting 10AM until 4PM) GROUPS of 8 people or more require a booking

Winery – 2017 James Halliday Australian Wine Companion The name Pokolbin Estate is synonymous with our circa 1889 sandstone cellar door. In 2011 it unfortunately burnt down, but has now been restored to its former glory. In 1970 we planted Shiraz, Semillon & Riesling. To this day, we are still the only vineyard in the Hunter Valley to grow a dry Riesling. In 1999 we added to these varieties, with plantings of our “Three Musketeers”. These Mediterranean styles include Sangiovese, Tempranillo and Nebbiolo. The Hunter Olive Centre is a specialty gourmet grocery store where you can taste certain products. We stock much more than just olives! Including a selection of oils, balsamic, dukkah, jams, marinades, sauces, chilli products, confectionary and more.

WHITE WINES Semillon, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Late Harvest Riesling RED WINES Shiraz, Shiraz Viognier, Shiraz Tempranillo, Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Nebbiolo PINK WINE Nebbiolo Rosé, Bela Rosa DESSERT WINES Autumn Harvest Riesling FORTIFIED WINES Muscat, Riesling Solera, Tawny WINEMAKER Andrew Thomas & Jeff Byrne PRICE RANGE From $22 to $80

MAP REF: D3

SABOR IN THE HUNTER At Lambloch Estate, 2342 Broke Rd, Pokolbin. PH 1300 958 939 SABOR IN THE HUNTER DESSERT BAR is the Valleys sweet spot, with the Hunters largest range of desserts paired with Wines & Dessert wines from the region. Indulge in our multi-award winning Portuguese Mousse, decadent cakes, Hand-made Chocolates & Portuguese tarts. A culinary experience you won’t soon forget.

www.saborinthehunter.com.au saborpokolbin@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Thurs, Fri, Sun & Mon 10AM 4:30PM; Sat 10AM - 9:30PM GROUPS & TOURS Bookings essential (set menu prices) Small function room available for large bookings.

Our dessert bar oﬀers a range of Gluten Free desserts, Cheese Plates, Baristamade coﬀee and teas to enjoy in our airconditioned restaurant or take-away.

SABOR HUNTER IN THE

DESSERT BAR

MAP REF: C6 50

POKOLBIN SOUTH

TAMBURLAINE ORGANIC WINES 358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-4200 Wine - with body & soul. With a ﬁve red-star rating in James Halliday’s ‘Wine Companion’, as well as local, national and international wine show recognition, we continue to challenge industry conventions and lead others down a path less travelled in pursuit of wine excellence. Our approach, the term ‘contemporary organics’, is a result of our enthusiasm to re-deﬁne winemaking and experiment with modern best practice in vineyard management, incorporating practical and sustainable strategies that will continue to produce brilliant wine - with body and soul.

www.tamburlaine.com.au info@tamburlaine.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 9AM to 5PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS By appointment WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Marsanne, Pinot Gris, Preservative Free Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc & Gewürztraminer RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Chambourcin, Grenache, Preservative Free Shiraz & Merlot Cabernet SPARKLING Pinot Chardonnay, Preservative Free Au Naturel FORTIFIED Liqueur Muscat, Framboise (raspberry liqueur) AWARDS NSW Wine of the Year ‘Best Other Red Variety’ and ‘Best Organic Wine’, James Halliday Winery Awards for individual wines can be viewed on our website WINEMAKER Mark Davidson & Aaron Mercer PRICE RANGE From $20 - $40/bottle

MAP REF: D3

THE BRICKWORKS BRASSERIE @ POTTERS HOTEL Potters Old Brickworks Brasserie is famous for great food, great beer, and a great atmosphere. With both indoor and outdoor dining areas, a Lounge Bar and a range of delicious menu options, the Brickworks Brasserie has it all. The Brasserie can cater for all reservations, from an intimate table for two, to parties for birthdays and family get togethers, with a casual dining ambience and proximity to the fabulous children’s playground, Potters suits everyone’s needs.

Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba PH 4991-7922

www.pottershbr.com.au info@pottershbr.com.au DINING STYLE Casual dining Daily specials board RESTAURANT OPENING HOURS 7 Days 7.30AM - 9PM CLOSED Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Bookings essential. Can pre-order PRICE GUIDE Main meals from $18 to $32

The Brickworks Brasserie’s menu is well known for its wonderful use of our very own on-site brewery, The Hunter Beer Co, beer as an essential ingredient of most dishes. MAP REF: F8 POKOLBIN SOUTH

THE CELLAR RESTAURANT HVG Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7584 www.the-cellar-restaurant.com.au thecellar@bigpond.com OPENING HOURS Open Monday to Saturday Lunch from 12 noon Dinner from 6PM CLOSED Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Contact us for details DINING STYLE Rustic Mediterranean inspired cuisine in elegant yet relaxed surroundings.

“A summer and winter favourite, The Cellar’s real draw is chef and proprietor Andy Wright’s restrained treatment of outstanding local produce.” The Sydney Morning Herald, Good Living

MAP REF: C3

WYNWOOD ESTATE 310 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7885 Wynwood Estate

www.wynwoodestate.com.au cellar@wynwoodestate.com.au

Wynwood Estate is one of the newest boutique wine brands with some of the oldest and most renowned vineyards, producing traditional, premium quality wines reminiscent of the grand vines of the 1970’s.

WINE TASTING & SALES 7 DAYS 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day GROUPS Welcome. Function Centre available, Corporate Groups welcome

Recreating History

Wy n w o o d E s t a t e o f f e r s a personalised and relaxing wine tasting experience like no other. Let our experienced staﬀ guide you through our extensive range, from easy drinking styles through to award winning Hunter Classics such as Shiraz, Verdelho, Chardonnay and Semillon, as well as varieties not regularly seen in the Hunter like Chambourcin, Durif and Merlot. Specialising in corporate and wine tasting you should plan your Hunter visit around a visit to Wynwood Estate. Experience the quality that comes from old vines at Wynwood Estate.

WHITE WINES Late Harvest selections, Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc RED WINES Rosé, Shiraz, Merlot, Chambourcin, Durif and special range from Barossa SPARKLING Moscato, Shiraz, Semillon SPECIALTIES Award Winning 2013 Semillon, Cabernet Franc, Old Vine Dry Grown Shiraz WINEMAKER Peter Lane PRICE RANGE From $18 to $70 per bottle

MUSEUM

POKOLBIN SOUTH

MAP REF: G5

High tea by the Rose Garden

THE

Kirkton Park EXPERIENCE

As you drive down the tree lined driveway, there is no denying that Kirkton Park is one of the most gorgeous boutique estates in the Hunter Valley, with its unique country manor charm and manicured gardens.

delectable fine dining menu that features only ingredients from the grounds of Kirkton Park and local Hunter Valley producers. The restaurant is open from 6pm to 9pm daily.

Located in the heart of Pokolbin, Kirkton Park has long been popular amongst visitors to the region and is now entering an exciting new chapter, with a new management company and a slight name change. As Shakespeare said “what’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other word would smell as sweet." And sweet they remain.

If you are looking for a more relaxed dining experience, be sure to make your way to the Epoche Lounge Bar. The comfortable lounge chairs and roaring open fire, make Epoche Lounge Bar the perfect place to wind down after a long day. If you prefer to relax with a glass in hand, the drinks menu has something for every taste with an extensive selection of cocktails, local wines and craft beer. The sumptuous food menu will no doubt satisfy your cravings with burgers, sliders, salads, antipasto and cheese plates and an assortment of pizzas cooked in the outdoor wood fired oven. Epoche Lounge Bar is open from 11am until late seven days a week.

In fact, Kirkton Park offers one of the sweetest experiences in the Hunter Valley with their High Tea. Served in the bright and airy Conservatory with the formal rose garden and water fountain below, it is the perfect setting for an indulgent morning or afternoon tea. The decadent High Tea experience starts with a glass of sparkling wine, followed by an assortment of petit tarts, slices, French pastries, fresh scones and fresh sandwiches. A hot option is also available that includes arancini balls, small boutique pies and spinach and feta triangles. High Tea at Kirkton Park is the perfect venue for sophisticated catch ups with friends, baby showers, hen’s celebrations, bridal showers, birthday celebrations or just because. Kirkton Park want to change the way you feel about food and where it comes from. A locavore is a person interested in eating foods grown or produced locally. The onsite restaurant Locavore Dining is true to its name, offering a

With beautiful accommodation rooms designed by renowned interior designer Greg Natale, stunning surrounds, tennis courts, a billiards room, an onsite Grecian-style pool house and sauna, spa and gymnasium facilities, Kirkton Park is the ideal escape. They also a have function rooms and pristine garden settings, making it the perfect venue to hold a gorgeous event with families and loved ones. Whether you are looking to spoil mum with a special high tea experience, taste the best Hunter Valley produce or somewhere to stay for your next weekend away, you can’t look past Kirkton Park. For more information or to make a booking, visit www.kirktonparkhuntervalley.com.au ISSUE #13 2017 | 53

Wine Name

Proper Pronunciation

Arneis

Ahr – NASE

Barbera

Bar – BEAR – ah

Botrytis

Boh – TRAHY – tis

Cabernet Sauvignon Cab – er – nay Saw – Vee – Nyon Chambourcin

SHAM – bore – sin

Chardonnay

Shar – doh – nay

Chenin Blanc

Shen – in Blahnk

Chianti

Key – AHN – tee

Cuvée

Coo – vay

Fiano

Fee – AH – Noh

Gewürztraminer

Geh – VAIRTZ – treh – mee – ner

Grenache

Gree – nash

Malbec

Mahl – bek

Marsanne

Mar – SAHN

WORDS Carla Elkin

Merlot

Mer – loh

Raise your hand if you have ever ordered a particular kind of wine simply because you could pronounce it? Fear not, as you are not alone in your anxiety over wine pronunciation.

Moscato

Mo – SCAH – toh

Nebbiolo

Nebb – yo – lo

Pinot Grigio

Pee – noh GREE – Joe

While some of us are self-proclaimed wine “experts” when it comes to deciphering the palate and aromas of a wine, it is a different story when it comes to pronouncing those tricky wine names correctly. This task is made increasingly difficult considering most wine names originate from foreign languages such as French and German.

Pinot Gris

Pee – noh Gree

Pinot Noir

Pee – noh Nwahr

Riesling

REESE – ling

Sangiovese

San – joe – VAE – sae

Rosé

Roh – ZAY

Sauvignon Blanc

Saw – vee – nyon Blahnk

One of the biggest wine tongue twisters on a wine list is Gewürztraminer. A popular aromatic, fruity wine that is often overlooked when perusing a wine list for fear of saying it wrong, or if you do order a glass, we bet you’re not the only one relying on the “vague point and mumble” method.

Semillon

SEM – eh – lon

Shiraz

Sheer – raz

Tempranillo

Tem – prah – NEE – yoh

Verdelho

Vehr – DEH – lyoh

Viognier

Vee – oh – nyay

Zibibbo

Zi – BEE – bo

Zinfandel

Zin – fan – del

PINOT WHAT?

We have compiled a list of tricky wine names and the phonetic breakdowns of their correct pronunciations so you can sound like a cultured wine connoisseur next time you’re out for a nice dinner or on a wine tour. 54 | ISSUE #13 2017

“Best small cellar door Lower Hunter”

Gourmet Traveller Wine Magazine 2013

“Five red star winery”

2017 James Halliday Wine Companion

“Rising star”

Winemaker Matt Burton 2010 Hunter Wine Industry Awards

Open 7 days, 10am - 5pm 101 Mcdonalds Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 PH: 02 4998 6873 info@gundogestate.com.au

TOP DROPS TAMBURLAINE ORGANIC WINES 2016 Hunter Reserve Chambourcin

WYNWOOD ESTATE 2013 Hunter Valley Reserve Shiraz

Tamburlaine Organic Wines strive to produce the best quality wine from premium wine regions. They are Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest producer of organic wines â&#x20AC;&#x201C; producing award-winning wines from their Hunter Valley and Orange Vineyards.

The Wynwood Estate 2013 Reserve Shiraz was produced from the 70-yearold vines grown on deep red volcanic soils. Warm and dry spring conditions and above average rainfall during the summer provided ideal growing conditions.

TASTING The 2016 Hunter Reserve Chambourcin has bright purple hues with aromas of ripe mulberries, vanilla and Chinese five spice. It has a mediumfull bodied palate with forest floor characters and gentle tannins from oak maturation.

TASTING The fruit for this Shiraz were handpicked and crushed into stainless steel open red fermenters. The 9-day fermentation and 15-month maturation has resulted in a wine of depth and intensity both on the nose and palate.

CELLARING Drink now, however you will be well rewarded after 10+ years in a good cellar.

CELLARING With suitable cellaring, this Shiraz is expected to continue to develop and drink well for the next 10+ years.

Wine. #withbodyandsoul

358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin | www.tamburlaine.com.au | 1800 659 956

56 | ISSUE #13 2017

TOP DROPS ERNEST HILL WINES 2016 CEO Cabernet Sauvignon

MISTLETOE WINES 2014 Reserve Shiraz

Ernest Hill Winesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; CEO range is made from small high quality parcels of grapes specially selected by the Ernest Hill CEO and represents the best of traditional winemaking processes.

The Mistletoe Wines 2014 Reserve Shiraz is a great Hunter Shiraz from a great vintage. It was awarded a gold medal at the 2016 Hunter Valley Boutique Wine Show and 96 points by James Halliday.

TASTING This is a typical Hunter Cabernet, medium-bodied, displaying aromas of violets and luscious flavours of dark plums and blackcurrants. Smooth tannins are supported by toasty oak flavours from maturation in French oak hogsheads, creating a balanced and elegant wine.

TASTING The 2014 Reserve Shiraz is powerful, yet elegant at the same time. The palate is currently quite tight with generous tannin structure. Characteristic of a Hunter Shiraz, this wine possesses red plum fruit flavours that are well supported by the oak input from the use of older French oak puncheons for maturation.

FOOD MATCH A perfect accompaniment to your next roast meat and poultry feast.

CELLARING Drink now to 2054.

CELLARING Drink now or be rewarded for cellaring to 2024

DONT MISS MISTLETOE! With over 20 different wines, including Sparkling, Whites, Reds, RosĂŠs, Fortified and Dessert styles on tasting, Mistletoe has one of the most comprehensive ranges of wines to be seen in the Hunter. 771 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin PH 1800 055 080 OPEN 10AM - 6PM

JAMES HALLIDAY 5 STAR RATING 2007 - 2012

ISSUE #13 2017 | 57

TOP DROPS MCLEISH ESTATE 2014 Reserve Chardonnay

NIGHTINGALE WINES 2016 Verdelho

This Chardonnay is of a winning pedigree, hand harvested from the estates single vineyard. Their winemaker produces a modern interpretation that focuses on the primary fruit qualities that are backed by an elegant use of French oak to add complexity and texture to the wine.

The Broke Fordwich wine region is renowned for producing high quality Verdelho grapes. Seasonal conditions in 2016 offered outstanding slow ripening resulting in intense fruit flavours epitomising this quality Verdelho.

TASTING A luscious mix of white peach, cashew honey nuances with melon fruit overtones on the palate, producing a powerful fruit driven quality with notes of spicy oak and extreme length thanks to the mineral acidity. FOOD MATCH This wine is perfectly paired to lobster, with a butter and garlic sauce or an excellent match for soft cheeses when aged. CELLARING Drink now to 2022.

TASTING The Nightingale Wines 2016 Verdelho displays a bright lifted tropical bouquet with luscious mouth filling citrus followed by a burst of fruit salad flavours, giving a rich and complex palate with a long crisp finish. FOOD MATCH A perfect accompaniment to seafood or Asian dishes. CELLARING Drink now whilst young to savour the delightful fresh fruit or cellar for up to 5 years

Australia’s Most Awarded Boutique Winery Celebrating our 32nd Vintage Awarded at the 2016 London International Wine Challenge TROPHY – World’s Best Semillon TROPHY – Australia’s Best Semillon TROPHY – NSW Best Semillon TROPHY Best Semillon at the 2016 Hunter Valley Boutique Wine Show FOUR TROPHIES Sydney Royal Wine Show

Experience our ultra-premium range of Estate grown wines at our Boutique Cellar Door.

MCLEISH ESTATE

OPEN 7 DAYS 10am - 5pm

462 DeBeyers Road POKOLBIN NSW PH (02) 4998 7754 E info@mcleishhunterwines.com.au W www.mcleishestatewines.com.au 58 | ISSUE #13 2017

TOP DROPS MEEREA PARK 2016 'Hell Hole' Semillon

GARTELMANN WINES 2017 Benjamin Semillon

The name Pokolbin, as legend has it, is derived from the early Hungarian migrant settlers to the area and means ‘hot as hell’ or ‘hell hole’, referring to the hot, dry summers.

Named after Jan Gartelmann’s father Ben and grandson Benjamin, the 2017 Benjamin Semillon is a classic example of a great Hunter Semillon, winning Gold at the 2017 Cowra Wine Show

TASTING 2016 was a ‘classic’ Semillon vintage for the Hunter Valley. It has produced a wine that is very pale to light straw in colour, with a nose that is citrus dominant, with lemon scents and lime zest. The palate has a linear focus based on superfine acidity supporting citrus fruits.

TASTING This wine has a dominant minerality, giving it an amazing clean acid backbone, and great base on which to hang the classic fruity lemon and lime characters which it has in spades.

FOOD MATCH The perfect accompaniment to grilled fish

FOOD MATCH When young, it is perfect with oysters or asparagus with béarnaise. In the future, it will pair well with soft ripe cheeses or chicken poached in wine.

CELLARING Drink now or will benefit from long term cellaring.

CELLARING Drink now or cellar until 2025.

Much more than a

vineyard...

stablished in 1981, Constable Estate is recognised for producing outstanding Hunter Valley estate-grown Constable Estate to easy drinking Matilda. Visit the cellar door and discover our wines, beautiful gardens and sculptures. Capture fantastic 360-degree views over the valley from our lookout named after the legendary Len Evans. selection of mouthwatering gourmet products.

205 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin Ph 02 4998 7887 E hunter@constablevineyards.com.au www.constablevineyards.com.au ISSUE #13 2017 | 59

Sabor St. Honore

Satisfy Your

SWEET TOOTH

at Sabor

There are people who prefer savoury, rich or spicy foods. And then there are the people who have a sweet tooth the size of China. Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar is for the latter. With a menu of over 50 different desserts with everything from waffles, brownies and mousse to cheesecakes and puddings, Sabor in the Hunter has undoubtedly the largest range of desserts in the Hunter Valley. Fernando and Renata Antao, the husband and wife duo at the helm, opened the original Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar in Lovedale in 2011, followed by a second dessert bar at Lambloch Estate in Pokolbin in 2015. After years of requests to serve high tea, the original Lovedale venue was recently transformed into Sabor Tea Room, a bright and airy tea house specialising in 60 | ISSUE #13 2017

high tea with sweet and savoury treats served on traditional tiered platters. The Pokolbin location has maintained the dessert bar format and is as popular as ever, with visitors and locals both embracing the notion of making dessert, a stand-alone dining event. Upon walking into the dessert bar above the Lambloch Estate cellar door, you are captivated by the floor to ceiling windows showcasing the magnificent views of the vineyards and dams below. We were warmly greeted by Fernando and shown to our table next to the window. At 10.30am it was initially quiet, but it didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take long for the tables around us to be occupied. At Sabor, all desserts are created individually; nothing is served by the slice. Their selection is much more wondrous than your usual patisserie shop cakes and desserts, with a willingness to push the boundaries resulting in futuristic shapes and fancy flavour combinations. As we peruse the menu, Fernando explained that we have two dining options â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we could order off the menu with waffles, dipping plates and ice creams or select

from the dozens of desserts on display in the cabinets. While there were various dishes on the menu, such as the Sabor Souffle and Nutella Chocolate Waffle that had us salivating, it was hard not to be drawn to the cabinets. After a lot of indecision – Chocolate or fruit? Cake or tart? – we decided to try the Sabor St. Honore, Caramel and Hazelnut Cone, Sabor Tasting Plate and the Warm Fresh Scones (for the non-sweet tooth among us). When the Sabor St. Honore came to the table, it looked much larger than it did in the cabinet (lucky we were hungry!). It was made up of a mud cake base with a layer of puff pastry, crushed hazelnuts and a trio of profiteroles held on top by the crème pâtissière. Each of the profiteroles had a different delicious filling – double chocolate, nutty caramel and pistachio chocolate. The mud cake was delightfully soft and not as dense as a typical mud cake. The layer of puff pastry broke up the sweetness of the dish and added a great textural element. Each bite provided a new flavour experience that balanced together amazingly. We all agreed we would order this dessert again, but will next time consider trying the fruity version, the Tutti Frutti St. Honore.

Fernando Antao

With its rich caramel colour, we couldn’t wait to cut into the Caramel and Hazelnut cone and see what surprises it had in store for us. Expecting a hard exterior, we reached for the spoon only to be shocked that it cut through smoothly, revealing the cone was made of milk chocolate with praline mousse with a caramel crème brûlée centre. The mousse that formed the cone was quite dense and not as airy as the mousse in the previous dish, but this was balanced by the chocolate sponge base, which was soft and light. The crushed hazelnut halo not only took the dish’s flavour to the next level, but it also provided a surprising “crunch” element. (Continued) ▶

Sabor Tasting Plate ISSUE #13 2017 | 61

Caramel and Hazelnut Cone

(Continued) This dessert had us in awe of Fernando and his chef’s creativity and notable technical skills in the kitchen. A quick look around the room resulted in the dreaded restaurant envy as the Flaming Chocolate and Caramel Brownie was served to the table next to us. The decadent brownie with chocolate and butterscotch sauce was served in a hot skillet with a serving board of strawberries, salted caramel ice cream and homemade biscotti to dip into the brownie and ice cream. The skillet came out bubbling away, and then Fernando added a touch of whisky and set it alight! It was very impressive. The flame subsided after a few seconds, and the table of three girls couldn’t wait to dig in (after taking a few obligatory Instagram photos of course!). From the look on their faces, it tasted as good as it looked! By this stage, we were beginning to realise that our eyes were bigger than our stomachs (we hear this is a common problem at Sabor) but soldiered on to sample the Sabor Tasting Plate. The plate consisted of bite size servings of the Sticky Date Pudding with salted caramel mousse, the Chocolate Raspberry Dome Tart, Coffee and Walnut Cake, Flourless Chocolate 62 | ISSUE #13 2017

Cake with white chocolate curl and Dark and White Salted Burnt Caramel Portuguese Mousse. Our pick was the flourless chocolate cake, as it was unanimously decided that this was unlike any other dessert we had ever tasted! It melted in our mouths. A highlight of our dining experience at Sabor! And while Sabor obviously caters for those who prefer the sweeter things in life, they do have a small but pleasing savoury menu with croissants, scones, a cheese plate and raisin toast. The savoury tooth of the group tried the fresh, warm scones served with raspberry jam and cream and after the first bite commented that they were just like Grandma makes. With only crumbs left on the plate, it was clear that even those who don’t like sweets can have a satisfying Sabor experience. We cannot fault our visit to Sabor in the Hunter. All the dishes tasted were beautifully plated, intricately constructed desserts with elegant and complex flavour profiles. Fernando’s hospitality was just the cherry on top of a fantastic dining experience. Whether you have time to eat in or just grab a treat to take away, make sure you pay Fernando a visit at Sabor, you won’t regret it! ■

The Gourmet Girls

Style

ICONS H U N T E R VA L L E Y

Award Winning Restaurants

CIRCA 1876 interior

Accommodation at The Convent

The Convent Hunter Valley Telephone: +61 2 4998 4999 Email: reservations@convent. com.au Address: 88 Halls Road Pokolbin NSW 2320 Web: www.convent.com.au

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Capercaillie Wines DeBortoli Wines Emmas Cottage Vineyard

Gartelmann Wines

Lovedale Smokehouse & Café

Lucy's Run Wines

As one of the oldest wine producing areas of the Hunter Valley, the history of Lovedale dates back to the 1800's when local wheat, dairy and general produce farmers turned their hand to grape growing.

Pierre’s Wines

Tatler Tapas Restaurant

Lovedale also hosts a number of events throughout the year, with the signature event being the famous Lovedale Long Lunch held on the third weekend in May each year.

Royal Federal Hotel

Sabor Tea Room

Tatler Wines

The Deck Café

Wandin Valley Estate & Café

For more information about events visit www.huntervalleyonline.com.au or www.lovedalehuntervalley.com.au

A delicious range of smoked and cured meats available at Lovedale Smokehouse & Cafe

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Go Horse-riding If you're up for a bit of adventure then Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures on Talga Road is the place to find it. Here you will find trails for both the beginner and the experienced rider - all with spectacular views! To book, call 4930 7111.

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High Tea Experience the ultimate High Tea with vintage tea sets, savoury and sweet delights and sparkling wine on arrival at Sabor Tea Room on Wilderness Road. Bookings essential on 1300 958 850.

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The name Lovedale combines the name of one of the early families of the district, the Loves, with the memory of the dales of Yorkshire in England.

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Lovedale, often referred to as the “Heart of the Hunter,” is located just east of Pokolbin and is renown for its interesting community, awardwinning boutique wineries and cellar doors as well as quality accommodation, fine restaurants and unique galleries.

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DeBortoli Wines

Lovedale Smokehouse & Café Adina Vineyard The Hunter Providore

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The picturesque views from Tatler Wines & Tatler Tapas Restaurant

LOVEDALE

ADINA VINEYARD 492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale PH 4930-7473 Wine, Olives & The Hunter Providore Call into Adina Vineyard and enjoy wines from some of the oldest Pinot Grigio and Sangiovese vines in Australia. You can also taste our other award winning wines. Adina also grows and processes on site olives, olive oils, tapenade and makes some outstanding vinegars such as our very popular Caramelised Balsamic. You can also taste and buy our unique Hunter Providore range of relishes, aioli and exotic sauces…the perfect enhancement to any meal. The Adina wine club is certainly another reason to visit with great discounts to our A-list members.

www.adinavineyard.com.au info@adinavineyard.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM - 5PM GROUPS Welcome. Bookings necessary WHITE WINES Chardonnay, Semillon, Pinot Grigio RED WINES Moscato, Shiraz, Cab Shiraz, Sangiovese, Cabernets SPARKLING Traditional Methode Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Prosecco, Sparkling Rosé FORTIFIED Dessert Semillon, Liqueur Muscat AWARDS 40+ awards in the last three years including trophies WINEMAKER Dan Binet PRICE RANGE $10 - $45 per bottle

MAP REF: G5

Our friendly staﬀ look forward to welcoming you at our cellar door.

CAPERCAILLIE WINES 4 Londons Rd, Lovedale PH 4990-2904 Capercaillie’s ambition is to remain a small winery which is focused entirely upon the creation of premium quality wines. To enhance the range of individual Hunter Valley Wines we select parcels of grapes from other proven regions of Australia, creating exciting multi-area blends which highlight climatic and varietal diﬀerences. Critics and judges alike recognise the high standard Capercaillie maintains in our quest for distinctive and innovative wines. Varieties include the Hunter classics, multi-regional blends, and a range of sparkling and sweet dessert styles.

www.capercailliewines.com.au sales@capercailliewines.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 DAYS 10AM - 4.30PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day GROUPS Prefer small groups less than 20, Corporate Groups, Winery Tours by Appointment WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Gewϋrtztraminer, Riesling, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc RED WINES Rosé, Chambourcin, Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Blend SPARKLING Chardonnay, Moscato, Chambourcin FORTIFIED WINES Port SPECIALTIES Ghillie Shiraz, Clan Cabernet Blend, Creel Semillon, Cuillin Chardonnay, Ceilidh Shiraz AWARDS To date - 30 Trophies, 86 Gold, 198 Silver, 505 Bronze medals. Numerous Tourism Awards. PRICE RANGE From $10 - $95/bottle MAP REF: I4

LOVEDALE

DE BORTOLI WINES

532 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin PH 4993-8800 • Home of Noble One dessert wine • Family owned since 1928 • Over 25 wines for tasting including Semillon, Shiraz, Pink Moscato, Liqueur Muscat, sparkling wines and much, much more! • Local Artisan Craft Markets held every Saturday

www.debortoli.com.au hunter_info@debortoli.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES 7 Days 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Good Friday & Easter Sunday Open Anzac Day 1PM - 5PM

MAP REF: H3

EMMAS COTTAGE VINEYARD 438 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale PH 4998-7734 Emma’s Cottage Vineyard is a small vineyard offering single estate wines, and is owned and operated by the Kramer family. Come exploring down Wilderness, find our cellar door, garden and cottages hidden behind the vines and discover our premium boutique wines produced from 30 year old vines.

www.emmascottage.com.au info@emmascottage.com.au

Cellar door visitors can enjoy a personal and friendly tasting experience of wines produced, from hand-picked grapes, by one of the Hunter Valley’s renowned winemakers. View the original art in our gallery or book a stay in one of our cottages for your next visit to the Hunter Valley.

WHITE WINES Semillon Chardonnay, Chardonnay Verdelho RED WINES Shiraz, Rosé, Cabernet Franc Merlot, Pinot Noir SPARKLING Chardonnay Pinot & Cabernet Franc Merlot FORTIFIED WINES Liqueur Chardonnay, Liqueur Shiraz

WINE TASTING & SALES Fri 12PM - 5PM Sat, Sun & Pub/Hols 10AM - 4PM Twilight tastings by appointment GROUPS Small groups under 8 people no charge

WINEMAKER David Hook PRICE RANGE From $24 per bottle

MAP REF: E3

Gartlemann Wines cellar door and The Deck Café, Lovedale

LOVEDALE

GARTELMANN WINES

701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale PH 4930-7113 www.gartelmann.com.au sales@gartelmann.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 DAYS Mon to Sat 10AM - 5PM Sun 10AM - 4PM Small Groups only (up to 12 people) CAFÉ OPEN 7 DAYS Mon - Fri 8.30AM - 3.30PM Sat - Sun 8AM - 3.30PM MAP REF: F5

LOVEDALE SMOKEHOUSE & CAFE 64 Majors Lane, Lovedale PH 4930-7832 LOVEDALE SMOKEHOUSE GOURMET PANTRY Creators and providores of artisanal charcuterie including grapevine smoked trout, salmon, mussels, octopus, cheese, beef, bacon, ham, chicken, duck, turkey, venison, kangaroo, a variety of sausages and much more. Lovedale Smokehouse Gourmet Pantry also have a large range of cured meats including salami, air dried beef, prosciutto and jerky as well as terrines, pâtés, cheeses, olives, olive oils, dipping sauces, salad dressings, jams, chutneys, crackers, smoking equipment, wood chips, picnic supplies, local artwork and Majors Lane Wines at cellar door prices.

LOVEDALE SMOKEHOUSE CAFÉ Our menu features smokehouse platters showcasing our range of smoked and cured meats, seafood, and cheeses. We also have a range of Chef’s creations including meals such as smokehouse burgers, slow cooked smoked meats, pastas, salads and pot pies. Craft beers, ciders, Hunter Valley wines and barista made coﬀee compliment the menu. Enjoy a relaxed lunch in our stunning courtyard set amongst lush gardens, water fountains and vineyard views or indoors in our air conditioned dining room surrounded by local artwork. Call 4930 7832 to make a reservation.

www.majorslane.com majorslane@bigpond.com DINING STYLE Casual café style dining OPENING HOURS GOURMET PANTRY Thursday to Monday 10AM - 5PM CAFÉ Lunch Thurs - Mon from 10.30AM 4PM. Function bookings welcome on other days Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day ALSO AVAILABLE Thai, Indonesian, Vietnamese & Sichuan Cooking Classes and Smoking Masterclasses SPECIALTIES Showcasing smoked local produce and charcuterie from our on-site smokehouse Fully licenced BYO bottled wine welcome

MAP REF: F6

LUCY’S RUN WINES 1274 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale PH 0409 994 030 Established in 1998, Lucy’s Run is dedicated to producing the best quality single vineyard grapes, with our 2014 Shiraz being highly awarded, winning top gold medal and two trophies at the 2016 Clear Image Hunter Valley Wine Show. Owner operated, we add a splash of fun to everything we do, so for a few laughs and a good story or two, we welcome you to our cellar shed (yes, shed!) to enjoy our range of Shiraz, Merlot and Verdelho, along with our extra-virgin olive oil, caramelised balsamic vinegar and hand-made spice blends.

LOVEDALE

www.lucysrunwines.com.au lucysrunwines@hotmail.com OPENING HOURS Sat & Sun & Public Holidays 10AM – 5PM Mon - Fri by appointment only Closed Christmas Day & New Year’s Day GROUPS Welcome. Bookings essential PRICE RANGE From $20 - $60/bottle WINEMAKER David Hook

MAP REF: D2

PIERRES WINES 82 Elderslie Rd, Branxton PH 0417 433 193 At Pierre’s Wines we specialize in true Méthode Traditionelle sparkling wines. Our vineyard is managed to ensure the ﬂavour chemistry is ideal for sparkling production. The wines are handmade using a traditional basket press with gentle pressure to produce wines which are elegant and rich. All other operations (bottling, disgorging and riddling) are done by hand to enhance these characteristics.

www.pierreswines.com.au info@pierreswines.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES Mon - Fri by appointment Sat & Sun 10AM - 5PM PRICE RANGE $15 to $60/bottle WINEMAKER Peter Went

We are also proud of our table wines which are made in small quantities using traditional techniques. At Pierre’s Wines you meet the people who grow and make the wines.

MAP REF: A2

ROYAL FEDERAL HOTEL 50 Maitland Rd, Branxton PH 4938-1335 Come along and dine at the Award winning Swill n Grill Bistro, situated in the beautifully renovated Royal Federal Hotel Branxton. Let your tastebuds be tempted by one of our famous steaks, stonegrill or kick back with a wood ﬁre pizza. More than just a pub bistro, a trip out to Branxton will not disappoint. Sit on the balcony while taking in any number of great Hunter wines or relax over a cold beer. Come along & see what all the locals already know. Swill n Grill at the Royal Federal Hotel is the best known secret in the Valley.

www.royalfederal.com.au enquiries@royalfederal.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 DAYS 10AM - 12AM LUNCH 12PM - 2PM DINNER 6PM - LATE GROUPS Welcome. Bookings Essential MAP REF: B1

Located in the idyllic Lovedale area, 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. OPEN 7 DAYS 701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale. Ph 4930 7113 E sales@gartelmann.com.au • www.gartelmann.com.au

LOVEDALE

TATLERS TAPAS RESTAURANT 477 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale PH 4930-9139 Tatlers Tapas Restaurant oﬀers a menu built for sharing whilst taking in the picturesque surrounding views. Dine indoors or alfresco - located at the Tatler Wines estate in Lovedale. Our restaurant oﬀers the perfect place to meet friends and enjoy a relaxed dining experience. Our diverse menu is served tapas style with a great Hunter wine list to complement your selections.

eat@tatlerwines.com OPENING HOURS Lunch Wed – Sun 12PM - 3PM Dinner Fri & Sat 6PM GROUPS Welcome. Bookings essential. Banquet Menu available for groups of 10 or more. DINING STYLE Menu designed for sharing Casual dining Alfresco area CATERING Available for special occasions and functions. Weddings can also be catered for on the estate (marquee available) HEAD CHEF Andreas Burri PRICE GUIDE $20 - $32

MAP REF: F4

TATLER WINES 477 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale PH 4930-9139 Tatler Wines is a destination not to be missed. Renowned for producing quality wines with timeless precision and strategically located in the heart of Lovedale, Tatler Wines is a family owned winery that continues to produce wines of outstanding quality year after year. Tatler Wines is one of the most popular destinations in Hunter Valley wine country. Tatler provides superior wines with genuine country hospitality – something that is sure to provide an experience to be remembered. Unwind in the lap of country style luxury with superb views and prized vineyards while enjoying a meal at the popular Tatler Tapas Restaurant.

www.tatlerwines.com sales@tatlerwines.com CELLAR DOOR 7 Days 10AM - 5PM RESTAURANT Lunch Wed – Sun 12PM - 3PM Dinner Fri & Sat 6PM - 9PM GROUPS Bookings essential WHITE WINES Verdelho, Semillon, Chardonnay, Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc RED WINES Rosé, Merlot, Shiraz SPARKLING Frizzante Semillon, Chardonnay Cuvee SPECIALTIES Frizzante Sparkling Semillon, Nigel’s Semillon, Archie’s Shiraz, McLaren Vale Shiraz, Redgiment Shiraz WINEMAKER Daniel Binet PRICE RANGE From $20 - $80/bottle

MAP REF: F4

LOVEDALE

THE DECK CAFÉ 701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale PH 4930 9007 www.deckcafelovedale.com.au bookings@deckcafelovedale.com.au OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri 8.30AM - 3.30PM Sat - Sun 8AM - 3.30PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day DINING STYLE Casual Café

The Deck Café is a smart casual café that sits on the bank of the Gartelmann Dam. Serving great breakfasts and lunches, Piazza Doro coffee and award winning Gartelmann wines from the cellar door.

MAP REF: F5

WANDIN VALLEY ESTATE 12 Wilderness Road, Lovedale PH 4930-9888 Wandin Valley Estate beholds unassuming beauty and provides great quality food & wine experiences. Visit Wandin’s cafe, cellar door, villa accommodation or celebrate a special occasion with us.

www.wandinvalley.com.au cellardoor@wandinvalley.com.au OPENING HOURS Open 7 days (excluding public holidays) Cellar Door from 10AM daily Café from 8AM Wed - Sun GROUPS Welcome. Limited choice a la carte for medium to large groups in the restaurant. WHITE WINES Chardonnay, Reserve Chardonnay, Verdelho, Viognier, Pinot Gris RED WINES Cabernet Merlot, Shiraz SPARKLING Moscato, NV Sparkling White Visit our cellar door to taste our new release wines. PRICE GUIDE From $25 to $40/bottle

MAP REF: D5 LOVEDALE

but a sip of a spirit that’s wowing both customers and connoisseurs at home and abroad. The certified organic distillery now produces around 27 different spirits, including a range of top shelf vodkas, liqueurs, schnapps and gins, with its products winning awards throughout Australia and overseas, including a bronze medal at the highly competitive San Francisco World Spirits Awards in 2016.

GET INTO THE SPIRIT! WORDS Michelle Meehan

It’s a familiar sight on a Saturday in wine country – groups of people crowded around a long, gleaming bar eagerly awaiting a taste of the establishment’s prizewinning products. But if you roll up to the cellar door on top of the hill at 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin, it won’t be one of the Hunter Valley’s famous Semillons or Shiraz in your glass,

With their original line of products including a small range of premium Valli label vodkas such as traditional, lemon myrtle and vanilla, it didn’t take long for Hunter Distillery to spice up their line with a variety of flavours such as apple, caramel, chilli, chocolate, coffee and lime. The addition of liqueurs and schnapps to their range allowed the distillers to get even more creative, with everything from blackberry and butterscotch schnapps to choc mint, hazelnut, ginger, passionfruit and Turkish delight liqueurs, just to name a few. For those looking for something a little stronger, there’s the award-winning Copperwave Gin and uniquely flavoured Jail House Gin, as well as the Connoisseur Range, which includes their product with the highest alcohol content, Arak (52%). On the opposite page are a couple of our favourite cocktail recipes featuring Hunter Distillery’s spirits...

TASTE THE HUNTER AFTER DARK DINNER TOURS! Savour the Hunter a�er dark as you journey through Australia’s oldest wine region and thriving micro-brewery scene on a progressive dining and educa�onal adventure! Hop between some of the region’s most sort a�er wineries, dining and brewery des�na�ons on the Wine & Cheese Lovers or Beeries & Foodies Dinner Experiences! By day explore the Hunter on our Hop-On Hop-Oﬀ Bus and 'Hands-On' MasterCLASS Tours.

iHop Hunter Valley ● PH 0455 535 035 ● explore@ihophuntervalley.com.au ● www.ihophuntervalley.com.au

72 | ISSUE #13 2017

STRAWBERRY DAIQUIRI

CARAMEL MARTINI

INGREDIENTS 4 fresh strawberries 2 tsp white sugar 35ml white rum 1 tbsp Hunter Distillery Strawberry Liqueur 25ml fresh lime juice

INGREDIENTS 45ml Hunter Distillery Caramel Vodka 15ml Hunter Distillery Butterscotch Schnapps Dash of caramel Cherry for garnish (if desired)

METHOD 1. Place the strawberries, sugar, rum, strawberry liqueur and lime juice into a shaker and mash (or muddle) with the end of a wooden spoon or cocktail muddler. 2. Place the lid onto the cocktail shaker and shake well. 3. Strain the mixture into a martini glass and serve.

METHOD 1. Pour Caramel Vodka and Butterscotch Schnapps into a cocktail shaker with ice and shake. 2. Strain into a chilled martini glass and add a dash of caramel. 3. Garnish with a cherry resting on the caramel for that touch of extra colour.

A Taste of

MOULIN ROUGE Presented by Two Fat Blokes If you’re looking for something different for dinner in the Hunter Valley, let us transport you to a bygone era...

‘La Belle Epoque’, where Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen transforms into a smokey, sensual ambience, with waitresses and entertainment from the Moulin Rouge era. Book Packages Dinner + Show + Transport

1616 Broke Rd, Pokolbin. PH 4998 6699 To book, visit

www.twofatblokes.com.au ISSUE #13 2017 | 73

Wine Myths

Uncorked!

WORDS Carla Elkin

We have been drinking wine since Medieval times and throughout the year’s certain misconceptions about wine have developed into unquestioned truths. They have inadvertently shaped the way we consume wine, discouraging us from expanding our wine knowledge and exploration. It’s time to rethink the “rules” of wine consumption, by debunking some of the common wine myths… 1. Expensive wine is best One of the most common wine myths is the assumption that the more expensive the wine, the better the quality. However, this is not always the case. In fact, the price of wine tells us nothing about its quality. The price of wine 74 | ISSUE #13 2017

is the result of supply and demand, influenced by factors such as location, advertising and celebrity endorsements, rather than the quality of the wine itself. Many studies featuring blind tastings have successfully shown that there is no association between a wine's price and its quality. In fact, in many of these studies, the results showed that most people preferred the less expensive wine to the more expensive wine. In 2001, Professor Frederic Brochet of the University of Bordeaux asked 57 wine experts to describe two wines. It was explained that the expensive wine was from a prestigious winery, the other was an inexpensive and very ordinary wine. The experts found the expensive wine ‘excellent’, ‘premiere’, ‘full’, ‘complex’, and ‘balanced’. The inexpensive wine was ‘flat’, ‘simple’, ‘faulty’, and ‘weak’. Unknown to the experts, both were the same wine.

2. Red wine should be served at room temperature This is more of a misconception than a myth. The concept of serving red wine at room temperature was introduced in the late 19th century, when homes were typically only heated to 17°c or less, compared to today’s homes that are heated to 21°c or more. The truth is, red wines should be served between 16°c and 20°c (and lighter styles such as Pinot Noir want to be cooler still). Too cold and the aromas will be numbed. Too warm and the red wine tastes sickly, heavy and it accentuates the alcohol – the only benefit being you and your guests will consume less. Put your bottle in the fridge 15 to 20 minutes before serving, to bring your red wine to the optimal serving temperature. 3. A screw cap closure indicates lower quality wine For many years, there has been an ongoing debate about the best way to close wine bottles. Cheap wines typically used screw caps, so they have since been associated with cheap and lower quality wine. However, this is no longer the case. While the ceremonial act of opening a bottle with a cork and hearing the “pop” is lost with a screw cap, many winemakers are now choosing screw caps to maintain the integrity of their wine. Nowadays, screw caps are considered superior as they alleviate some of the issues associated with cork closures, such as the fact that corks can go bad and ruin the wine, the cost of screw caps is lower than corks, and screw caps allow the wine to age steadily. What’s more, with a screw cap, you'll never have to search for your corkscrew again! 4.The older, the better A very small number of wines have the proper structure to hold up to ageing. Today, almost all wine is produced to be consumed within the year it is bottled. Ageing wine can change the taste, bouquet, and finish of the wine. While for some wines, this develops a better flavour and texture, for others it does not. Some wine varieties are just not made to be aged and should be enjoyed young. Most red wine varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Shiraz and fortified wines are the best candidates for ageing. Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio and most white wines should not be aged as they do not possess the structure necessary for good ageing. However, some white wines such as Hunter Valley Semillon and Rieslings will improve with age.

5. Wine critics know which wine is best for you While wine critics can have a lot of experience with tasting wine, wine tasting is ultimately subjective. Everyone’s palate is different and just because a wine critic likes a particular wine does not mean you will. You will know a really good wine when you taste it.You don’t need to be a wine expert to be blown away by the aromas and flavours of a great bottle of wine. Learn to trust yourself. Ultimately, your taste buds are the only ones that count. ISSUE #13 2017 | 75

MOUNT VIEW, CESSNOCK & NULKABA WINE & DINE TRAIL

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Al-Oi Thai Restaurant

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ba on Ir

Bistro Molines

Brewery Tours Visit the Hunter Beer Company for a brewery tour, a tasting paddle or to meet the brewers. They are the oldest microbrewery in the Hunter and make a large range of beers with a huge range of colours, aromas and flavours. For more information visit www.hunterbeerco.com

NAME

THINGS TO SEE & DO

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The nearby town of Cessnock sits on "The Convict Trail" - the original Sydney to Hunter Valley road hand-built by 3,000 convicts.

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At the end of Wollombi road is the historic town of Wollombi - today displaying a fine architectural heritage, a selection of cafés, eateries, comfortable guesthouses and national parks with great bush walking trails, lookouts and ancient Aboriginal rock carvings.

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Fletcher

Mount View provides a number of wine and dine options with respected restaurants and a handful of impressive and highly acclaimed boutique wineries that seem to appear out of nowhere and all providing a relaxed and idyllic wine tasting experience and superbly welcoming hospitality.

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Mount View is located at the southern border of Pokolbin and nestled amongst the breathtaking surrounds of the Brokenback Range in the Hunter Valley. Mount View with its winding roads and panoramic views offers some of the most outstanding scenery available in the Hunter Valley.

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Briar Ridge Vineyard

Hunter Beer Co

Kelman Vineyard

MAP

Mount View Estate

Petersons Wines

Saddler’s Creek Wines

Savannah Estate

The Brickworks Brasserie

For more information about events visit www.huntervalleyonline.com.au or www.mountview.biz

Take in the view Overlook Cessnock and Pokolbin by visiting Bimbadeen Lookout on Mount View Road. With breathtaking scenery not just at the top but on the drive up the hill, this lookout is the perfect spot for bushwalking (the Great North Walk) and mountain bike riding. From here, you can walk or ride to nearby wineries on Pokolbin Mountains Road, or walk through the Hunter Valley Dry Rainforest (one of the last remaining rainforests of its kind) towards Millfield! If you choose to do one of these, a drink bottle, good walking shoes and hat are a must.

Overlooking the Pokolbin side at Bimbadeen Lookout

MAP AND FEATURED DESTINATIONS The Brickworks Brasserie & Hunter Beer Co.

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Saddler’s Creek Wines

Kelman Vineyard MOU

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Savannah Estate

Petersons Wines

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Briar Ridge Vineyard

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Al-Oi Thai

Mount View Estate

Bistro Molines

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MAP LEGEND Winery/Cellar Door Restaurant/ Café Providore/ Gourmet Produce

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AL-OI THAI 19 Vincent St, Cessnock PH 4990-8666

Traditionally Thai food is to be shared and Al-Oi Thai provides the perfect venue for sharing whether it be for a business lunch, romantic dinner or a celebration with family and friends. Al-Oi Thai has been serving customers for over 15 years in Newcastle and now has a restaurant in Cessnock. Al-Oi Thai is a family business and the food is authentic Thai food that is a ‘must try’ when you are in the Hunter Valley. Some of the most popular dishes are Pad Thai Prawn, Massamun Beef, Tom Yum Prawn, Chicken Satay, Beef Salad & Cashew Nut Chicken. Delivery is available every night in the local Hunter Valley area.

www.aloithai.com.au OPENING HOURS LUNCH 7 Days 11AM - 3PM DINNER 7 Days 4.30PM - 10PM Take Away and Delivery available BYO GROUPS Welcome. Bookings essential

MAP REF: E8 MOUNT VIEW, CESSNOCK AND NULKABA

BISTRO MOLINES 749 Mount View Rd, Mount View PH 4990-9553 Bistro Molines is set among the peaceful surrounds of Tallavera Grove, overlooking a valley of terraced vineyards and grazing cattle. Robert & Sally Molines take pleasure in offering French Provincial cuisine and charming hospitality. Awarded a Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide Chefs Hat 2010-2017, Bistro Molines combines the finest food with European influenced serenity.

www.bistromolines.com.au dine@bistromolines.com.au DINING STYLE French Provençal style ﬁne dining Unique and individually customised wedding receptions Alfresco dining available OPENING HOURS LUNCH Thurs to Mon 12PM - 3PM DINNER Fri & Sat 7PM - 9PM Open midweek for group bookings by special arrangement SPECIALTIES & AWARDS Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide Chefs Hat 2010 - 2017 PRICE GUIDE Main meals from $38 to $44

MAP REF: G2

BRIAR RIDGE 593 Mount View Rd, Mount View PH 4990-3670 www.briarridge.com.au cellardoor@briarridge.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM - 5PM Antipasto & Cheese plates available to 4pm Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & Good Friday

Nestled among the rolling hills of Mount View, Briar Ridge is an iconic vineyard producing classic Hunter Valley wines. Head Winemaker, Gwyn Olsen is passionate about producing estate grown wines for the Briar Ridge range that speak of true place and Hunter Valley heritage. Enjoy a tasting of our award-winning wines while taking in the tranquil gardens and mountain views, or relax a little longer over an antipasto or cheese plate and discover the magic that is Briar Ridge. Looking for the perfect venue for your wedding or function? Visit our website or contact us to arrange a viewing and complimentary wine tasting. RATED WINERY BY JAMES HALLIDAY 78

MOUNT VIEW, CESSNOCK AND NULKABA

WHITE WINES Semillon, Fumé, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Moscato, Trebbiano, Fiano RED WINES Rosé, Merlot, Tempranillo, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot SPARKLING Chardonnay Pinot Noir, Blanc de Blancs FORTIFIED WINES Liqueur Muscat, Late Harvest Gewϋrztraminer AWARDS James Halliday 5 star rating. Gourmet Traveller WINE Young Winemaker of the Year 2014, Rising Star of the Year 2015 WINEMAKER Gwyn Olsen PRICE RANGE From $23 - $60/bottle MAP REF: F3

KELMAN VINEYARD 2 Oakey Creek Rd, Mount View PH 4991-5456 www.kelmanvineyard.com.au admin@kelmanvineyard.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES 7 Days 10AM - 4PM Closed Christmas Day

Life beautifully balanced...

Nestled at the gateway to Mt. View, Kelman is a unique, boutique vineyard producing both classic, premium wines and a sweet wine range. Sample our award-winning and James Halliday rated wines today. On those cooler nights, our mulled wine is a must!

CLASSIC WINES Chardonnay (Sparkling & Classic), Semillon, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Tempranillo, Shiraz and RosÃ© SWEET WINES Moscato, Seduction (Chardonnay), Indulgence (Shiraz) You can also sample a range of delicious local olives, olive oils and condiments.

MAP REF: D6

MOUNT VIEW ESTATE 502 Mount View Rd, Mount View PH 4990-3307 James Halliday 2010 - 2016 100% Estate Grown and Vintaged. Located in the picturesque Mt View region, our highly awarded wines are 100% estate grown and produced. From the vine to the glass, we pride ourselves on producing exceptional boutique wines, only available through the cellar door and at selected restaurants.

www.mtviewestate.com.au sales@mtviewestate.com.au WINE TASTING AND SALES 7 Days 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & Good Friday GROUPS Max 20 people WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Sauvignon Blanc RED WINES Shiraz, Rose, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot FORTIFIED WINES Liqueur Shiraz (aka Port), Liqueur Verdelho (aka Madeira) WINE MAKER Scott Stephens PRICE RANGE $25-$55 per bottle

MAP REF: F2 MOUNT VIEW, CESSNOCK AND NULKABA

PETERSONS WINES 552 Mount View Rd, Mount View PH 4990-1704 Widely renowned for our award winning wines, Petersons have been producing fine wines for over 30 years. We create classic wines such as Chardonnay, Semillon and Verdelho; to big rich, gutsy reds such as our Back Block Shiraz. For those who enjoy bubbles we have a delicious sparkling Moscato. Petersons Wines is situated on a small hill surrounded by vineyards in the heart of Mount View: the position is perfect, with uninterrupted views of Mount Sugarloaf and the Watagan Mountains. Come, visit our cellar door, enjoy the picturesque backdrop and meet our friendly staff. We will give you a warm welcome and offer a tasting of some of our award winning wines.

www.petersonswines.com.au sales@petersonswines.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES 7 Days Mon-Sat 9AM - 5PM; Sun 10AM-5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day GROUPS Welcome. Please book in advance. WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Fume Blanc, Muscat, Verdelho, Riesling RED WINES Merlot, Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Chambourcin, Durif, Petit Verdot SPARKLING Sparkling Chardonnay, Moscato, Sparkling Red FORTIFIED WINES Cellar Port, Muscat SPECIALTIES Back Block Shiraz, Old Block Shiraz, Strikes Shiraz, Botrytis Semillon, Moscato WINEMAKER Gary Reed PRICE RANGE From $19.50 -$100 p/b MAP REF: F2

SADDLER’S CREEK WINES 15 Marrowbone Rd, Pokolbin PH 4991-1770 Established in 1990, Saddler’s Creek Wines is a boutique winery located in the Hunter Valley. Our philosophy is simple; to produce and source small parcels of the highest quality fruit from some of Australia’s oldest and most renowned wine growing regions including Langhorne Creek, Mudgee and the Hunter Valley. With a gentle hand, our experienced winemakers craft quality wines that are fruit driven, balanced and elegant with a true focus on celebrating each regions unique characteristics.

www.saddlerscreek.com winery@saddlerscreek.com WINE SALES & TASTING 7 Days, 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Bookings essential. Max size 12 by appointment WHITE WINES Chardonnay, Riesling, Semillon, Vermentino RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot DESSERT WINES Botrytis and Muscat SPECIALTY WINES Bluegrass Range and most recent addition Sparkling Bluegrass Cabernet AWARDS Triple Trophy Winner – Hunter Boutique Wine Show, Best Australian Sweet White Table Wine – Rutherglen Wine Show, Trophy – Australian Boutique Wine, WINEMAKER Brett Woodward PRICE RANGE From $18 to $65/ bottle

MAP REF: D5 80

MOUNT VIEW, CESSNOCK AND NULKABA

SAVANNAH ESTATE WINES 402 Mount View Rd, Mount View PH 4990-6326 Savannah Estate Wines are produced from small select parcels of premium fruit grown in renowned viticulture regions throughout Australia. We hand select varietals from Australia’s most unique regions and produce wines that best reﬂect their unique regionality and character. Savannah Estate lies on the beautiful gateway to Mount View, which boasts some of the most stunning views of the whole Hunter Valley. Take the time to come and visit us at Savannah Estate. Our friendly staﬀ will gladly guide you through a tasting of our wide range of luscious wines. BRING IN THIS AD TO RECEIVE A FREE PICCOLO BOTTLE WITH ANY BOTTLE PURCHASE (Limit 1 per person)

Savannah Estate can provide for all your gifting needs – whether they be small volumes or large corporate quantities. We can provide wines for oﬃce parties, or wine gifts for valued friends, clients and staﬀ. We can do branding on wine bottles, wine related gifts and a range of hampers from simple to extravagant depending on your requirements and budget. Savannah will also deliver your gifts straight to your recipient or to you.

www.savannahestate.com.au wine@savannahestate.com.au OPENING HOURS Mon to Sat 9AM - 5PM Sun 10AM - 5PM CLOSED Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Groups up to 30 people welcome WHITE WINES Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Verdelho, Chardonnay RED WINES Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chambourcin SPARKLING Brut, Sauvignon Blanc, Moscato, Zibibbo, Sparkling Red FORTIFIED WINES Muscat, Port SPECIALTIES Corporate gift packs WINEMAKER Michael Hudson PRICE RANGE From $19.50 - $55 per bottle

MAP REF: D5

V I N E Y A R D

Life beautifully balanced.

More than a Vineyard – A Way of Life • A Unique Residential Vineyard • Cellar Door • Medal Winning + James Halliday Rated Classic Wines • A Range of Sweet Wines • Range of Gourmet Produce Open 7 days 10am - 4pm www.kelmanvineyard.com.au 2 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin • Phone 4991 5456 MOUNT VIEW, CESSNOCK AND NULKABA

Circa 1876

An Exceptional Dining Experience This was a dinner to look forward to, as much has been written about Circa 1876 and the multi-talented chefs that have passed through its kitchens since its early days as Roberts Restaurant. Circa 1876 is, in a word, “unique” and without a doubt one of the most beautiful restaurants in the Hunter. Located amongst vineyards, you enter through the restaurant's original slab cottage (circa 1876) – also known as “Peppertree Cottage”. The private dining and lounge rooms filled with magnificent antiques and an open fire give the feeling of old world charm within a truly romantic setting and just perfect for a quiet conversation while enjoying some of the Hunter Valley’s finest wines before making your way to the main dining area. The restaurant is warm, and the ambience is cosy and opulent with high ceilings, large oversized wooden beams and an eclectic mix of lighting with large chandeliers lighting up one side of the room. Circa 1876 celebrates a 82 | ISSUE #13 2017

fine dining style of food and atmosphere with a farm-totable ethos and rustic feel. After being warmly welcomed by our host André, we were shown to our table in front of a blazing open fire where we settled down to the wonderfully varied menu. Under Executive Chef Trent Barrett’s direction, the menu offers two-course and three-course dining options, a five-course and seven-course chef’s tasting menu as well as a vegetarian menu. While tempted by the Sesame Crusted Yellow Fin Tuna and the Seared Sea Scallops for entrée, we finally decided upon the Crispy Skin Jumbo Quail and Confit Pork Belly and Bonito Crusted Scampi. The Pork Belly and Scampi arrived beautifully presented, served with confit garlic and corn puree, fried corn husk, house cured bacon, compressed apple balls and red miso aioli. The pork was meltingly tender, and the crisp crackling proved far too good to share. The fried corn husk and compressed apple balls added wonderful

contrasting textures and cut through the richness. A beautiful combination of flavours and delightfully paired with a glass of Mount Pleasant Chardonnay.

To round off a truly wonderful meal, we ordered the Circa Custard Tart and the Matcha Green Tea and White Chocolate.

The Crispy Skin Jumbo Quail was served with smoked beetroot, goat's cheese, a beetroot puree and a lovely spice note of garam marsala. The quail meat was juicy and succulent with the crispy skin providing a lovely contrast. Add to this, the earthy flavours of beetroot with the sharp bitterness of goat’s cheese and some fresh greens from the garden. It was an exceptional dish and wonderful with a glass of Mount Pleasant ‘Singing in the Rain’ Rosé.

The Custard Tart served with sweet-crumb, espresso fluid gel, nutmeg and sugar glass was a truly delightful dessert, while the Matcha Green Tea and White Chocolate was pure genius and up there as one of the best desserts I have ever tasted. Flawlessly presented with white chocolate silk cake, matcha sponge, chocolate chards and green tea Chantilly, this dessert delivered sensational flavours and layers of contrasting textures. Hard to beat!

For our main dishes, we selected Hunter Valley Lamb Rump and the Sous Vide Kangaroo – both served medium.

Ideal for that romantic night out with that special someone, Circa 1876 is a Hunter Valley must-do foodie destination. a Salt&Peppa review

The lamb rump arrived as an elegantly presented art piece. The meat was exceptionally succulent and tender, served with king brown mushroom puree artistically piped on the plate, cauliflower florets, a truffle caper vinaigrette, macadamia nuts, heirloom carrots and greens sourced from the organic kitchen garden just metres away. This dish was wonderful with the exceptional Piggs Peake ‘House of Sticks’ Cabernet Merlot.

Confit Pork Belly & Bonito Crusted Scampi

For many, kangaroo is an adventurous choice, but kangaroo meat is very lean with less than 2% fat and superb when properly prepared – much like venison. With kangaroo loin, you’ve got an outstanding cut of meat, and this dish was no exception. Sous vide is the perfect method for cooking kangaroo and indeed any meat. This dish was cooked perfectly and served medium with a zesty quinoa, purple sweet potato, snow peas, jus and a blackcurrant gel and pleasing with a glass of Pinot Noir. Seeing how beautifully presented these dishes are breathes understanding into how much work and skill goes into them. The food at Circa 1876 is prepared and cooked with passion, care and respect for the environment and ingredients, most of which are sourced locally or onsite.

Circa Custard Tart ISSUE #13 2017 | 83

BROKE FORDWICH WINE & DINE TRAIL

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Broke Village Markets Set in the beautiful, sheltered part in the main street of Broke, this little market is a must see. Held the first Sunday of each month. 84 84 BROKE BROKEFORDWICH FORDWICH

Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard

Mount Broke Wines

Nightingale Wines & Restaurant

For more information about events visit www.huntervalleyonline.com.au or www.brokefordwich.com.au

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FORDWICH

Nightingale Wines & Restaurant

BROKE RD

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Krinklewood biodynamic Vineyard

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Mount Broke Wines

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Catherine Vale Wines

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Ascella Organic Wines

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Winery/Cellar Door Restaurant/ Café Providore/ Gourmet Produce

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THINGS TO SEE & DO Organic Wine Tasting Visit Ascella Organic Wines to taste their range of wines produced from the largest certified organic vineyard in the Hunter Valley. Also, don't forget to book in for your organic cheese and olive tasting by calling 6574 5275 or 0431 357 105. For more information, visit www.ascellawines.com.au

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Catherine Vale Wines

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With the Brokenback Range and the iconic Yellow Rock escarpment in the background, the Broke Fordwich region consists of two villages - Broke and Bulga, each with their own identity, as well as the two smaller communities of Fordwich and Milbrodale.

Ascella Organic Wines

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Known as the "tranquil side of the Hunter Valley" and situated an easy 15 minute drive from Pokolbin and just 25 minutes from Singleton, the Broke Fordwich Wine Region is considered to be a separate viticultural sub-region of the Hunter Valley and accounts for approximately 11% of the vineyard area planted in the Hunter Valley. 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.

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ASCELLA ORGANIC WINES 203 Thompsons Rd, Milbrodale PH 6574-5275 or 0431 357 105 www.ascellawines.com.au sales@ascellawine.com

Organic Wines

Taste Inspired by Passion! ASCELLA is the largest certiﬁed organic vineyard in the Hunter Valley.

Located in the pristine Broke Fordwich region, Geoﬀ and Barb welcome you to their picturesque Country Cellar Door. We are committed to maintaining a balanced, chemical free and sustainable environment.

OPENING HOURS Country Cellar Door Organic Wine Tastings Open 7 days a week GROUPS Groups welcome by appointment. Book in for an Organic Cheese & Olive Plate RESTAURANT Jacks Barbecue in the Orchard WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Vintage White RED WINES Merlot, Shiraz, Vintage Red, Rosé SPARKLING Pure Vescence SPECIALTIES Shiraz 2011, 2013; Reserve Semillon 2014; Semillon 2010, 2011; Reserve Chardonnay 2014, 2013, Verdelho 2010, Merlot 2010, 2011 PRICE RANGE From $19 - $70/bottle

MAP REF: B1

CATHERINE VALE WINES 656 Milbrodale Road, Broke PH 6579-1334 www.catherinevale.com.au wine@catherinevale.com.au OPENING HOURS Fri, Sat, Sun & Public Holidays 10AM – 5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & Good Friday GROUPS Welcome. Bookings Essential

Celebrating their 20th vintage, Catherine Vale Wines is a hidden treasure in the Broke region. If you love your traditional Hunter Valley whites either, young and fresh or aged to perfection, then a short drive to visit us at Catherine Vale’s boutique winery and cellar door is a must. Purchase a cheese plate, local olives or antipasto from our little deli; relax on the lawn or on the deck and take in the serenity of the Hunter Valley. At Catherine Vale, we have also pioneered the growing of 3 Italian grape varieties - Arneis, Barbera and Dolcetto - originating from the Piedmont region of Northwestern Italy. These varieties provide an interesting taste diﬀerence to suit our evolving tastes and food.

WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Arneis RED WINES Dolcetto, Barbera FORTIFIED WINES Madiera AWARDS 5 star winery awarded by James Halliday Numerous wine show awards WINEMAKER John Horton PRICE RANGE From $18 - $35/bottle

We host a number of functions throughout the year including Release Lunches and A Little Bit of Italy in Broke, and are happy to assist in planning your private event on our little piece of paradise. With the award-winning wines, amazing lookout and friendly staﬀ, a visit to Catherine Vale Wines will be a highlight of your Hunter Valley experience.

MAP REF: B1 BROKE FORDWICH

KRINKLEWOOD BIODYNAMIC VINEYARD 712 Wollombi Rd, Broke PH 6579-1322 Krinklewood is a Certiﬁed Biodynamic Organic, family run vineyard and farm. We are passionate about the vineyard and farm being managed in a holistic and sustainable manner, thus biodynamic organic principles are part of everything we do. Working alongside nature and in alignment with the lunar cycles, we create wines that reﬂect the unique characteristics of Krinklewood terroir. Set amongst beautiful Provencal gardens overlooking the picturesque foothills of the Brokenback mountain range, the cellar door is a must visit when in the Hunter Valley. Featuring our biodynamic organic wines for tasting, delicious cheese plates and a range of seasonal organic produce. We look forward to welcoming you soon!

www.krinklewood.com info@krinklewood.com OPENING HOURS Fri, Sat & Sun 10AM - 4.30PM GROUPS Small groups welcome by prior appointment only WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Wild White, Spider Run Reserve White, Basket Press Chardonnay, Lucia Dessert RED WINES Spider Run Reserve Red, Shiraz, Basket Press Shiraz, Wild Red, Francesca Rosé & VAT48 Cabernet Merlot SPARKLING Blanc de Blanc & Gypsy Shiraz WINEMAKERS Rod & Peter Windrim PRICE RANGE From $18 - $50/bottle

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MOUNT BROKE WINES 130 Adams Peak Rd, Broke PH 6579-1314 Established in 1997 Mount Broke Wines has defined Shiraz quality in the Broke Fordwich Sub Region of the Hunter Valley across the last decade. Our low yielding, single origin vineyard is focused on producing small batches of premium wines. Take in the beautiful outlook of the Brokenback Range whilst enjoying lunch at our Restaurant. We are centrally located 20 minutes from Wollombi, Singleton and Pokolbin.

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www.mountbrokewines.com.au philmcnamara@outlook.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES Sat & Sun - 10AM - 5PM RESTAURANT LUNCH Sat & Sun - Midday - 3PM Functions and Weddings by Appointment.

MAP REF: B1

NIGHTINGALE WINES 1239 Milbrodale Road, Broke PH 6579-1499 Home of the 2005 James Busby Trophy, Nightingale Wines embody all the great qualities of a true boutique vineyard, where you can meet the people who grow the fruit, make the award-winning wines and present it at the Cellar Door. Complete your Nightingale experience by enjoying breakfast, lunch or dinner at Nightingale Restaurant. The new exciting menu fuses ďŹ&#x201A;avours from around the world, with an emphasis on quality local, foraged and farmed produce. Enjoy relaxed, alfresco dining on the verandah in the company of friends and family or relish a cheese plate or sparkling wine in the lounge area. Nightingale Wines, Restaurant and Villas, nestled at the foot of the yellow rock escarpment at Broke, is a unique unwind and dine destination just 20-minute drive from the regional wine centre of Pokolbin, Cessnock and Singleton.

www.nightingalewines.com.au info@nightingalewines.com.au OPENING HOURS Cellar Door Open 7 Days 10AM-4PM RESTAURANT Breakfast Sun 8.30AM - 11AM Lunch Wed - Sun 12PM - 3PM Dinner Wed - Sun from 6PM GROUPS Welcome with booking WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay RED WINES Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz SPARKLING Sparkling White, Shiraz, Moscato FORTIFIED WINES Liqueur Verdelho, Gail Force Port AWARDS 2008 Hunter Valley Boutique Wine Show Gold, Best Red of Show and Open Vintage Red â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2006 Shiraz WINEMAKER Daniel Binet PRICE RANGE From $25 - $55/bottle MAP REF: B2 WINERY TOURS

Great wine deserves a great glass.

Wine Glass Gallery Choose from 100's of beautiful Bohemia Crystal & colourful wine glasses for your Hunter Whites & Reds. We also stock classic flute & saucer champagne glasses & a variety of shot glasses. Cheryl Cusick's original artworks of Wine Glass paintings on canvas, plus many others. A display of over 3,000 colourful gifts, homewares, art glass & much more - you will be amazed!

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

WHITES of the Hunter

The Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s best white wine areas - consistently winning a disproportionate number of awards in National Wine Shows. While the area is famous for its long lived Semillon white wines, the Hunter Valley is also known for producing Australia’s first Chardonnays in the 1970’s and the popular single varietal wine - Verdelho, has been planted in the Hunter Valley for over 100 years. SEMILLON - Often referred to as "Australia’s unique gift to the wine world," Hunter Valley Semillon is a unique white wine which keeps getting better with age and is considered to be the highest quality and best example of dry white Semillon wine produced anywhere in the world. Classic Hunter Semillon is restrained, with piercing acidity and lemon flavours and are renown for their ability to age well, evolving through an array of flavours, slowly developing into richer and more honeyed characters. CHARDONNAY - This adaptable and hearty grape flourishes easily in most climates and conditions. It is now one of the most widely-planted grape varieties worldwide, is planted in more wine regions than any other and is an important component of many sparkling wines around the world, including Champagne. VERDELHO - The characteristics of Verdelho vary significantly according to the climate, growing conditions, the winemaker’s skill and the timing of the harvest. The Hunter Valley produces very distinctive styles of Verdelho wine displaying a spiciness, both on the nose and the palate. PINOT GRIGIO (also known as Pinot Gris) Although they are the same grape, the two names have over time come to infer two different styles of wine. Immensely popular, the Italian style Pinot Grigio wines are typically lighter-bodied, crisp, fresh, with vibrant stone fruit and floral aromas and a hint of spice. In contrast, Pinot Gris wines are more full-bodied, richer, spicier, and more viscous in texture. They also tend to have greater cellaring and ageing potential. 88 | ISSUE #13 2017

VIOGNIER - Although a relatively new white grape variety to Australia, it is rapidly gaining a strong following. The most distinctive attribute of Viognier is its stone fruit character, most notably that of apricot or peach and its generous alcohol content and low acidity. There are other powerful flower, fruit and spice aromas evident in these wines - which are dependant on where the grapes are grown, the weather conditions and age of the vines. Most of these wines are intended to be consumed young, although some - especially those from old vines and the late-harvest wines, are suitable for ageing. GEWÜRZTRAMINER - In Australia this variety is also known as Traminer, especially in the warmer regions where it is most commonly used as a blending companion for Riesling. The wines are highly perfumed and quite full-bodied, more so than other white wines. The bouquet is intense and complex, offering an explosion of exotic fruits such as lychee, passion fruit, pineapple and mango characters with rose petal, gardenia, honeysuckle and even spicy (gingerbread, peppermint, cloves and pepper) aromas. In fact, the name Gewurztraminer literally translates as "spicy Traminer".

Ernest Hill Wines One of the Hunter’s leading family owned and operated boutique wineries. Internationally Awarded Wines London, Vienna and Hong Kong Five star winery – James Halliday One of ten dark horses to watch in 2017 Five star rating – Tripadvisor Wines only available at the Cellar Door and selected restaurants.

Open 10am to 5pm, 7 days 307 Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba PH 4991 4418 www.ernesthillwines.com.au

PARISH OF POKOLBIN

DRINKING

Stars!

“Come quickly! I am drinking the stars” were the supposed words exclaimed by Dom Pérignon upon his accidental invention of Champagne in the late 17th century. Chances are this story was invented over a glass of wine at an advertising agency. But the image is so romantic, so evocative and such an accurate description of the drink that no-one really cares… Since then, Champagne or Sparkling Wine has been the drink of choice for celebrations, regardless of the occasion. Sparkling Wine is simply wine with significant levels of carbon dioxide in it making it fizzy. The carbon dioxide may result from national fermentation – either in a bottle (as with the Traditional Method), in a large tank

Sparkling Wine is usually white or rosé but there are also many examples of red sparkling wines, such as the Australian speciality – Sparkling Shiraz. Although wonderful on its own, when it comes to food, sparkling white wine can be enjoyed with just about any meal, although pairing it with seafood, tapas or other hors d’oeuvres is the perfect way to get any party started. So, brace yourself for the sound of cork popping as here are a few examples of some of the Hunter Valley’s finest ‘bubbly’ wines…

KELMAN VINEYARD 2013 Sparkling Chardonnay

HUNGERFORD HILL 2016 Sparkling Dalliance

Kelman Vineyard is a unique community vineyard producing premium quality wines as well as a range of sweet wines. The team at Kelman are especially proud of this silver medal winning Sparkling Chardonnay, made in the “Méthode Traditionelle” and bottle aged for three years.

The 2016 Sparkling Dalliance was produced from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grown in the cool climate region of Tumbarumba. It was made using ‘Méthode Traditionelle’ – the traditional method of fermenting the wine in the bottle.

TASTING This exceptional wine displays a fine lasting bead with a complex tropical fruits early palate. Yeast characters enhance the development of light fruity flavour and brilliant texture, finishing with a crisp note on the back palate. FOOD MATCH Savour this critically acclaimed, fabulous bubbly on its own or with succulent seafood - the perfect aperitif for that special celebration and for those long lazy summer evenings.

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designed to withstand the pressures involved (as in the Charmat Process), or because of carbon dioxide injection.

TASTING The fruit purity and the flavours derived from bottle fermentation and extended lees maturation combine to produce a rich, vibrant sparkling wine with a fine creamy bead. FOOD MATCH Pairs perfectly with any light seafood dish (think oysters, scallops, and prawns), antipasto and mild cheeses. Or just a ripe strawberry in the bottom of the glass! CELLARING Enjoy now or cellar to develop richness and depth of flavour.

GARTELMANN WINES 2017 Blanc de Blancs

PETERSON HOUSE 2010 Malbec

Gartelmann Wines is a boutique family owned winery in Lovedale that has built a reputation for producing quality, hand-crafted wines that have gone on to achieve a range of impressive accolades.

Peterson House are the recognised specialist producer of sparkling wines in the Hunter Valley. Their aim is to produce a wine for all tastes and occasions, because as they say, “Life’s flat without bubbles!”

TASTING The 2017 Blanc de Blancs is based on Chardonnay grapes, evident in its pale straw colour, apple and honey characters on the nose, complexity on the palate and the ability to be delicious when young, or superb with age.

TASTING The 2010 Malbec is purple red in colour, with a blend of fruity and savoury aromas. The palate has a mix of sweetness and firm tannins. Some berry fruit and plum characters come through in the middle palate, whilst dark chocolate notes linger as the wine persists.

FOOD MATCH The youth of this wine makes it the perfect pre-dinner aperitif to be enjoyed with tangy, salty oysters or pieces of pumpernickel. CELLARING Drink now.

CAPERCAILLIE WINES 2013 'The Sonse' Traditional Method Chardonnay This Blanc de Blanc traditional method wine has been made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes grown in Lovedale. TASTING A cool 10-day ferment with a neutral yeast strain produced a restrained base wine, displaying fresh citrus, apple and nectarine aromas. The wine underwent tirage in May 2013 and was disgorged in June 2017. The extended lees contact and yeast autolysis has given the wine another dimension, adding toast and brioche characters, texture and a layer of creaminess to the mouth feel. CELLARING Drink now to 2018 SPECIAL OFFER – Show this wine feature at the cellar door to receive 10% off RRP.

FOOD MATCH A full flavoured sparkling red wine suits full flavoured food. Try with big cuts of meat such as beef rump, lamb shoulder or pork ribs. Designed to be served cold.

ERNEST HILL WINES NV Blanc de Blancs Ernest Hill Wines is a family run boutique winery situated at the gateway to the Hunter Valley's famous Pokolbin District. They pride themselves on their range of awardwinning, limited edition wines. The Ernest Hill Wines NV Blanc de Blancs is their first sparkling and arguably their best yet! Perfect for those who enjoy a relaxing afternoon or evening with friends while sipping on a great sparkling wine. TASTING The Blanc de Blancs offers vibrant lime and peach flavours with a refreshingly bubbly mouth feel. FOOD MATCH Best enjoyed with smoke salmon blinis. CELLARING Drink now or cellar up to four years.

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PIERRE'S WINES 2014 Chardonnay/Pinot Noir The 2014 Chardonnay/Pinot Noir is Pierre’s Wines bestselling sparkling wine. It is made from a blend of 50% Chardonnay and 50% Pinot Noir handpicked from their estate vineyard. It is a “zero dosage” style, meaning no sugar is added at disgorging. TASTING The complex aroma illustrates the range of characters found in true méthode traditionelle wines. On the palate, the wine is rich and refined. 34 months ageing on lees in the bottle has given this wine a very long palate with a soft and satisfying creamy texture. FOOD MATCH The natural acidity provides a freshness which makes it an ideal aperitif.

MISTLETOE WINES 2017 Hunter Valley Mozcato Mistletoe’s Sparkling Mozcato (‘oz’ because it is from Australia) is made from Muscat Blanc a Petit Grains grapes grown on the Mistletoe Home vineyard, originally planted in 1998. TASTING Unlike other overly sweet Moscato’s, Mistletoe’s Sparkling Mozcato is fresh, fragrant and spicy on the nose with intense tropical fruit flavours on the palate. FOOD MATCH It is great just served well chilled as an aperitif or at the end of a meal with fresh fruit and cheese. CELLARING With today's modern methods these wines are perfect for drinking while they are young but with the new design crown seals fitted they keep very well.

CELLARING Drink now.

ASCELLA ORGANIC WINES Sparkling Pure Vescence

ADINA VINEYARD 2014 Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir

Ascella Organic Wines is the largest certified organic vineyard in the Hunter Valley. All of Ascella’s wines are made using only organic grapes from their secluded vineyard located in the pristine Broke Fordwich region, where they are committed to maintaining a balanced, chemical free and sustainable environment.

The Adina Vineyard Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir has been made from two of the classic sparkling varieties – Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, with the grapes carefully picked from their estate in Lovedale.

TASTING This wonderful Sparkling Rosé has a tropical fruit nose with a zesty and refreshing palate. Most often described as delicious and yummy! Celebrate any occasion or the festive season with a glass of Ascella Pure Vescence. CELLARING Enjoy now but can be cellared.

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TASTING This Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir features a gold colour with a developed bouquet nose. Strawberry and apple flavours are elegantly balanced with toasty notes. It has good length with a rich creamy feel on the mouth. Beautiful flavour and finesse – an outstanding example of the winemaker’s art. FOOD MATCH Great anytime - perfect as an aperitif, with hors d’oeuvres, desserts or…. anything! CELLARING Drink now to 2024.

We welcome you to our cellar doors: Stonehurst Wines • Wollombi Wines Wollombi Tavern • Noyce Brothers Wollombi Village Vineyard Enjoy a taste of country in historic Wollombi - cafes, shops, and Tavern’s Dr Jurds Jungle Juice!

www.wollombivalleywinetrail.com.au

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For more information about events visit www.huntervalleyonline.com.au or www.visitwollombi.com.au

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NOYCE BROTHERS 2884 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi PH 4998-3483 Noyce Brothers is a boutique wine producer at Wollombi in the Lower Hunter Valley. Our aim is to explore ways in which technology and tradition can push the boundaries of taste. Our cellar door offers a unique experience in an historic Georgian sandstone building in Wollombi Village. The beautiful and elegant gardens behind our cellar door provides a lovely and relaxing environment in which to taste and appreciate our wines.

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Sculpture in the Vineyards An annual festival of art and culture held across boutique vineyards and selected locations throughout Wollombi from 28th October to 3rd December 2017. For more information, visit sculptureinthevineyards.com.au

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Wollombi Tavern/ Route 33 Café

The Wollombi Wine Trail is made up of five boutique wineries offering visitors a unique wine tasting experience and passes through beautiful countryside at the southern gateway to Hunter Valley Wine Country following part of the Great North Road which was built by convicts in the early 19th century.

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Wollombi is a small, picturesque and historic village that has always been an important base for travellers along the Great North Road and today retains its fine architectural heritage bolstered by cafes, wineries and comfortable guesthouses.

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www.noycebros.com.au sales@noycebros.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES Mon, Tues & Wed 10.30AM - 3PM; Thurs - Sun 10.30AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Welcome MAP REF: E3

ROUTE 33 CAFÉ 2994 Great North Road, Wollombi PH 4998-3261 Experience good old fashioned hospitality at the Wollombi Tavern situated in the historic village of Wollombi, gateway to Australia’s famous Hunter Valley Wine Country and, home of the infamous Dr. Jurd’s Jungle Juice.

www.wollombitavern.com.au wollombitavern@bigpond.com RESTAURANT Mon to Thurs 10AM 7.45PM, Fri 10AM - 9PM, Sat 9.30AM - 9PM, Sun 9AM - 7.45PM DINING Large 400g steaks, hamburgers, nightime bar menu available. No BYO GROUPS Welcome, bookings preferred

With its large open picnic area next to the picturesque Wollombi Brook, the Tavern oﬀers ample room for family gatherings in this historic area. Or enjoy a meal at the Tavern, with the juicy steaks and mouthwatering burgers a hit amongst hungry travellers.

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STONEHURST CEDAR CREEK 1840 Wollombi Rd, Cedar Creek PH 4998-1576 The Heslop family is committed to producing premium quality wines through sustainable viticulture, based on organic principles. The results of this labour of love are award and trophy winning wines!

www.stonehurst.com.au wines@stonehurst.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES 7 Days 10AM - 5PM. Closed Christmas Day & Good Friday GROUPS Please book in advance

We welcome you to our sandstone Cellar Door, open 7 days. MAP REF: C6

WOLLOMBI VILLAGE VINEYARD 2971 Payne’s Crossing Rd, Wollombi PH 0419 997 434 Come visit our Cellar Door, relax & enjoy peace amongst the vines on the verandah or unwind inside our air-conditioned cellar door. Sample our award winning wines, rated by James Halliday, all grown here on our surrounding vines. Try our authentic Italian family recipe liqueurs including our Limoncielo, Passione, Caffé & Moka. Our liqueurs, renowned digestifs & fortified wines offer lots of tastes to tempt a wide range of palates.

wollombivillagevineyard.com.au wollombivino@hotkey.net.au TASTING & WINE SALES Sat 9AM - 6PM; Sun 9AM-4PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Welcome

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WOLLOMBI WINES Wollombi Rd, Wollombi PH 4998-3427 Wollombi Wines is a family owned and operated Boutique Vineyard and Cellar Door adjoining the historic village of Wollombi. Apart from the traditional Shiraz, Semillon and Sparkling wines, Wollombi Wines specialises in easy drinking wines such as the White Splash and the luscious ﬂavoured lower alcohol Bella Frizzante. Come try the wines and enjoy the beautiful picnic area.

www.wollombiwines.com.au orders@wollombiwines.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES Wed – Mon 10AM – 5PM Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Welcome No larger than 50 seats buses MAP REF: E5

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PAIRING

CHARCUTERIE & wine WORDS Quentin von Essen

Not every charcuterie board is created equal, and despite the elegant reputation that accompanies most French dishes, charcuterie originated as a humble peasant dish. But don't let that minor fact deceive you, a successful charcuterie board is curated and carefully composed with a well thought out selection of textures and tastes. Charcuterie is the French word for the culinary art of preparing smoked, dry-cured or cooked meat products that include favourites like bacon, ham, pâté and salami and the more esoteric items like terrines, rillettes, galantines and duck confit. The origins of charcuterie are simple: salting, curing and drying were the most effective ways to preserve meat before the advent of refrigeration. Today, charcuterie is prepared for the flavours derived from the preservation processes. A charcuterie plate is one of the easiest ways to satisfy even the most self-indulgent palate with ingredients that include fatty, rich pâté, nutty, spicy cured meats, cheeses, pickles and meat fat —technically, cured fatback. Charcuterie is also a wine lover's best friend as, despite the complexity of the products you might find on a charcuterie board, pairing wine with them is just so easy. 96 | ISSUE #13 2017

DRY-CURED SALAMI Packed with flavour and easy to prepare, salamis are reliable charcuterie additions. They’re the ultimate meat lovers comfort food, and they offer plenty of variety, quality French, Italian, and even locally made sausages are available with a variety of seasonings. Wines: Typically, a not-too-tannic but fruity red wine will work, especially if they're flavourful but not overwhelming. A Zinfandel will work well here as will a Barbera and Pinot Noir. PROSCIUTTO OR JAMON IBERICO Jamon Iberico, the fervently worshipped, long-cured back leg of the Iberian black-footed pig, is known for its sweet, nutty acorn flavour, due to the pig’s acorn diet in the last four months of it's life, while Prosciutto di Parma has a slightly saltier profile. The basic formula here is salted, cured, fatty and very thinly sliced meat, which leaves you with several good wine options. Wines: Many red wines and dry white wines pair well as do dry sparkling wines, but the best pairing of all may be a dry fino sherry. Beer is also an excellent choice to accompany jamon dishes that are hot or spicy.

FOIE GRAS, DUCK, AND CHICKEN LIVER PÂTÉ Foie gras is a controversial dish, and although Australia does not produce it, it remains a delicacy that is imported into the country and often found on the charcuterie board. Wines: Foie gras and Sauternes (sweet dessert wine) have been best pairing friends for years, but if it’s a lighter mousse (instead of sliced, sautéed) you could go for a Pinot Gris (not Pinot Grigio). But, if it’s a gamier pâté, you could try earthy but not too heavy reds like Pinot Noir. RILLETTES Rillettes are made from cured and confit meat, usually pork, that's shredded and set in its fat to form a paste as it cools. Rillettes is usually spread, like a rough pâté, on bread or crackers. Typically prepared with a bit of spice and dried herbs, it’s rustic, very rich and meaty. Wines: Sauternes could make a classy pairing here, a nice contrast to the rusticity of the Rillettes but a good ‘’body’’ match. LARDO OK – true to its name, this is pure meat fat—technically, cured fatback. It’s a type of salami made by curing strips of fatback with rosemary and other herbs and spices. The most famous lardo is from the Tuscan hamlet of Colonnata, where lardo has been made since Roman times.

red wine or another type of wine. The perfect wine for pairing with goat cheese is Riesling, Chenin Blanc or Sauvignon Blanc. Mild Cheeses (Mozzarella, Monterey Jack and some milder Cheddar): These cheeses have some flavour to them, but are not particularly pungent and go well with a variety of wines that include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio and Viognier. If you'd like to match a red wine with a mild cheese, make sure you stick to the lighter type of red wines because you don't want the red wine to overpower the cheese. Medium Cheeses (Cheddar, Colby, Edam, Gouda cheeses of moderate flavour intensity): A dry white Riesling or even a Pinot Gris are a good match, as well as light and moderate red wines such as Merlot, Pinot Noir, and even Shiraz. Pungent Cheeses (Blue Cheese, Parmesan, mature aged Cheddar): These cheeses demand a full, tannic red, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Merlot, or Shiraz. Port is the classic accompaniment to most cheese and goes particularly well with strongly flavoured ones. Dessert Wines are also a good match for these cheese types. Smoked Cheese: An Australian Shiraz would be the most preferred match here which is richer than many others. A sweet dessert wine (Sauternes) will withstand the smoky flavour.

Wines: Because it’s all fat and salt, you probably want to avoid anything too complex— instead keep it simple. Where there is fat, and where there is salt, you absolutely can’t go wrong with a Sparkling Wine. Delicious fat and bubbly – a great choice! CHEESES Most charcuterie plates will include other players, things like cheese, pickled veggies, sweet fruit pastes and so on. But cheese is a gourmet product we can all get behind, and you can make a cheese plate—and pair with it— pretty easily. Here is a quick guide to cheese and wine pairing: Cream and Soft Cheeses (Brie, Camembert and Ricotta): Chardonnay is a good bet, as is a Sparkling White Wine and Pinot Gris (or Pinot Grigio). A Semillon Sauvignon Blanc or a Sauvignon Blanc is amazing, and a nice Riesling or a Gewurztraminer will be good. If you just must do a red wine with these cheeses, choose one that's very high in acid, like a Merlot or a Pinot Noir. Goats Cheese: The tang and saltiness of the cheese requires a high acid white wine as it would clash with ISSUE #13 2017 | 97

With its serene beauty and astonishing views, there really is no region more romantic to begin your married life or more suited to hold a function than the spectacular Hunter Valley. Not only famous for its wine, the Hunter Valley has for many years been a preferred destination for corporate events, product launches conferences, engagement parties, family gatherings, engagement parties and of course weddings – large and small. There is nothing more memorable than spending time in the country, taking part in team building activities or exchanging vows in unique venues, surrounded by vineyards and exquisite scenery. The Hunter offers the perfect setting for a perfect event or wedding.

WEDDINGS, FEASTS AND FUNCTIONS

BRIAR RIDGE VINEYARD

Overlooking stunning Mount View, with lush vineyards and beautifully landscaped gardens, Briar Ridge Vineyard provides an idyllic setting for your wedding or commitment ceremony and reception. Our elegantly styled Rose Room can accommodate cocktail or seated receptions and provides a relaxed and romantic atmosphere to celebrate your nuptials with family and friends. Enjoy a ﬁve-star menu crafted by the Hunter Valley’s highly acclaimed restaurant, Bistro Molines, matched to complement our award-winning wines. Contact us for a wedding package or to arrange a viewing and complimentary wine tasting. We look forward to meeting you and to making your special day unforgettable. 593 Mount View Road, Mount View PH 4990 3670 E weddings@briarridge.com.au www.briarridge.com.au

You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding on a venue. Choose from the numerous highly acclaimed venues that include wineries, restaurants, barrel-lined halls, vineyard settings, botanic gardens, hotel conference centres and ballrooms each with their own charm. For guests and delegates, there are also plenty of accommodation choices available from self-contained cottages, to motels, guesthouses and resorts, all of which are experienced in catering for the needs of business and wedding guests.

HUNTER’S QUARTER

Allow us to host your Wedding in true Hunter Valley style at the iconic Cockfighter’s Ghost Vineyard. Chef and owner of Hunters Quarter Brian Duncan, has a simple philosophy on food - it’s about high quality, fresh products, combined with carefully crafted technique that allows the natural flavours and textures to shine. The vineyard is known for their great, award winning wine and the incredible views that they boast. We understand Weddings are personal so we have a dedicated team of professionals to assist you with the finer details towards your memorable day. Behind every great wine is an even greater story - Let us help tell yours! At Cockfighter’s Ghost, 576 De Beyers Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7776 E info@huntersquarter.com.au www.huntersquarter.com.au WEDDINGS, FEASTS AND FUNCTIONS

NIGHTINGALE WINES

Set on a picturesque 22-hectare vineyard in the Broke Fordwich wine region, just 20 minutes from Pokolbin, Nightingale Wines is your dream wedding destination. The striking Brokenback Mountain Range, iconic Yellow Rock and beautifully manicured vineyards will provide the picture perfect backdrop for your wedding ceremony. Whether you host your reception in the Barrel Room or the restaurant, you will create those lasting memories that will have your guests talking about your special day for years to come. With packages to suit all budgets and luxury accommodation on site, Nightingale Wines offers the complete vineyard wedding experience! 1239 Milbrodale Road, Broke PH 6579 1499 E info@nightingalewines.com.au www.nightingalewines.com.au

100 WEDDINGS, FEASTS AND FUNCTIONS

RIDGEVIEW WINES & RESTAURANT Experience the romance of a ceremony surrounded by picturesque vineyards, bushland and waterways. Our stylish restaurant with its unique timber vaulted ceilings and first class facilities then becomes your reception venue which opens up to an expansive undercover verandah that showcases the stunning views overlooking our vineyards. Executive chef, Donna Hollis and her team will create the perfect meal to celebrate your special day, utilising fresh produce from the kitchen garden and of course matched to our extensive range of award-winning RidgeView wines. We can tailor your perfect day to suit your requirements. 273 Sweetwater Road Pokolbin PH 6574 7332 E weddings@ridgeview.com.au www.ridgeview.com.au