Wine & Dine Hunter Valley | Issue 14 2018 by WCP MEDIA

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO THE HUNTER VALLEY •Cellar Doors •Restaurants •Trail Maps •Restaurant Reviews •Local Produce

ISSUE #14 2018

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

“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

Mozcato 2017 11th 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

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 Michelle Meehan, Ellen Hill FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION: +61 2 4943 2888 wineanddine@wcpmedia.com.au Level 1, 216 Pacific Hwy, Charlestown NSW 2290 Australia Â© Copyright 2018 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 first 2018 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 and ciders. 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 14

Broke Fordwich Food & Wine Trail 86

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 – Whites

Not all Wine Glasses are Equal 64

What's On in the Hunter Valley

Farm to Fork at Circa 1876

Sniff, Sip & Swirl How to Taste Wine

The Ben Ean Experience

Chefs at the Top of their Game

Hunter Valley Varietals – Reds

Adrian Sparks Senior Winemaker - McWilliam's Wine 55 A New Direction Hungerford Hill and Dalwood Estate

Aussies are Begging for Burgers 89 The Cider Trail

Weddings, Feasts & Functions 97

Visit Wine Region...

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

492 Lovedale Road, Lovedale

7 Days

Allandale Winery

132 Lovedale Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Ascella Organic Wines

203 Thompsons Road, Milbrodale

7 Days

Ben Ean

119 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Black Creek Farm & Thélème Wines

803 Old North Road, Rothbury

Fri - Mon

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

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

Elbourne Wines

236 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin

By Appointment Only

Emmas Cottage Vineyard

438 Wilderness Road, Lovedale

Thurs - Sun

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

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

Hunter's Dream

149 Deasys Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Iron Gate Estate

Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Ivanhoe Wines

525 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Kelman Vineyard

2 Oakey Creek Road, Mount View

7 Days

Kevin Sobels Wines

5 Halls Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard

712 Wollombi Road, Broke

Fri - Sun

Lambloch Estate & Pokolbin Cider

2342 Broke Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

1693 Broke Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

House Leogate Estate Wines 4 | ISSUE #14 2018

Quick Index to Cellar Doors (L-Z) Lucy's Run

1274 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale

Fri - Sun; Weekdays by app.

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 Pleasant Wines

401 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

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

Peter Drayton Wines

694 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Peterson House

Cnr Broke Road & Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin

7 Days

Petersons Wines - Mount View

552 Mount View Road, Mount View

7 Days

Petersons Wines - Pokolbin

2347 Broke Road, Pokolbin

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

Savannah Estate Wines

402 Mount View Road, Mount View

7 Days

Stomp! Wines

504 Wilderness Road, Lovedale

Thurs - Mon

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

Thirsty Palette Wines

247 Wilderness Road, Lovedale

Sat & Sun; Mon - Fri by app.

Thomas Wines

Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin

7 Days

Tintilla Estate

725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Wandin Winery

12 Wilderness Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Wollombi Village Vineyard

2971 Payne’s Crossing Road, Wollombi

Sat & Sun

Wynwood Estate

310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

7 Days ISSUE #14 2018 | 5

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

19 Vincent St, Cessnock

Dinner 7 Days

Baumé

119 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Thurs - Mon

Bistro Molines

749 Mount View Road, Mount View

Lunch Thurs - Mon; Dinner Fri & Sat

Blaxland Inn

2198 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Circa 1876

64 Halls Road, Pokolbin

Lunch & Dinner Fri - Tues

Dalwood Estate

700 Dalwood Road, Dalwood

Functions

Éléments

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

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Epoche Lounge Bar

Kirkton Park, 336 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

EXP. Restaurant

1596 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Lunch Wed - 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

Hunters 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 Days

Lovedale Smokehouse & Café

64 Majors Lane, Lovedale

Lunch Thurs to Mon

Matilda Bay Brewhouse

Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Mount Broke Restaurant

130 Adams Peak Road, Broke

Lunch Sat & Sun

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

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

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 - Thurs

RidgeView Restaurant

273 Sweetwater Road, Pokolbin

Breakfast Fri - Sun; Lunch & Dinner Thurs - Sun

6 | ISSUE #14 2018

Quick Index to Restaurants (R-Z) Route 33 Café

Wollombi Tavern, 2994 Great North Road, Wollombi

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Royal Federal Hotel

50 Maitland Road, Branxton

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar

Lambloch Estate, 2342 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Thurs - Mon

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 Red Apron

401 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin

Thurs - Mon

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

Villa Du Pays

Leogate Estate Wines 1693 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Fri & Sat

Wandin Café

Wandin, 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

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 #14 2018 | 7

feast-kerrsorganic.com

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 MAP Full size Wine & Dine map 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 14

Pokolbin South

PG 34

Lovedale, Rothbury & Branxton

PG 66

Mount View & Cessnock

PG 80

Broke Fordwich

PG 86

Wollombi

PG 92

ISSUE #14 2018 | 9

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.

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 renown for its 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 10 | ISSUE #14 2018

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.

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".

WHATS ON

in the Hunter Valley...

APRIL

A LITTLE BIT OF ITALY IN BROKE at Broke

SAT 7 - SUN 8 One of the Hunter’s favourite annual events is back again, A Little Bit of Italy in Broke! This Italian food, wine and fun‐ filled long weekend has even more events this year, making sure every thirst and stomach is filled. Meet local Broke Fordwich growers, makers, chefs and artisans, relax amongst the vines and olive groves ‐ why not just stay the whole weekend? Visit a couple of venues or visit them all, use the event program to map your weekend! Most events will be held 10am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday. Find the event schedule at www.italyinbroke.com.au

12 | ISSUE #14 2018

MAY

LOVEDALE LONG LUNCH throughout Lovedale

SAT 19 - SUN 20 Gourmands take note that in May, Lovedale will once again be continuing the tradition of bringing endless delight to lovers of wine, food and music by hosting the annual, award winning Lovedale Long Lunch. This year’s event is expected to attract more than 20,000 people to the seven participating Lovedale wineries - Allandale Winery, Tatler Wines, Gartelmann Hunter Valley, Wandin Hunter Valley, Saltire Wines, Sandalyn Estate and Emmas Cottage Vineyard. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.lovedalelonglunch.com.au

JUNE

HUNTER VALLEY WINE AND FOOD FESTIVAL Held throughout May and June, the Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival is a two-month showcase of the epicurean pleasures to be found within our region, taking in everything from wine tours and cooking classes to gourmet dinners and winemaking workshops. A celebration of our diversity and incredible hospitality, the annual festival offers something to suit every taste, with events that include Cheeses of the World Wine Matching Experience at Two Fat Blokes every weekend in May and June. For more information visit www.winecountry.com.au

JULY

SNOWTIME IN THE GARDEN

at Hunter Valley Gardens SAT JUN 30 - SUN JUL 22 Hunter Valley Gardens will transform into a Winter Wonderland as Snow Time in the Garden kicks off! This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, with great new features and best of all, open daily for 3 huge weeks, including the winter school holidays. Children and adults alike can enjoy all things winter at Snow Time in the Garden, without having to travel to the snow! Chill out on the giant ice skating rink, go tobogganing and even build a snowman in the manmade Snow Play Zone! With loads on offer, it’s time to brave the cold and make sure you don’t miss out on the winter fun! For more information, visit www.hvg.com.au

AUGUST

MAITLAND AROMA at Maitland

SAT 11 - SUN 12 Aroma Coffee & Chocolate Festival is a celebration of winter comforts, featuring some of the Hunter’s finest baristas, roasters and chocolatiers. This fine food affair will include an interesting and diverse demonstration program, which

will see local experts sharing their knowledge and expertise on the leading styles of coffee and chocolate and their uses at home. This year’s festival will host stalls featuring quality coffee, chocolate, gourmet comfort food and produce, as well as roving performers, interactive activities and much more. Entry to the festival is free. For more information, please visit www.maitlandaroma.com.au

SEPTEMBER WOLLOMBI MUSIC FESTIVAL at Wollombi

FRI 21 - SAT 22 Wollombi Music Festival is back for its 9th year but this time at a new location, Cranky Rock, Wollombi. The Wollombi Valley is known for its creative and diverse culture and this festival aims to reflect these qualities and combine them into a night of fantastic music, celebration, community and great vibes. As always, the Wollombi Music Festival will feature musical acts across multiple genres from gentle folk harmonies to gutsy blues rock, with reggae, dub, blues and roots.

By popular demand, the Silent Disco will also return in 2018. This year’s event will be the biggest yet! For more information or to purchase tickets, visit

www.wollombimusicfestival.com.au

ISSUE #14 2018 | 13

POKOLBIN NORTH WINE & DINE TRAIL

NEW EN GLAND

HIGH WAY

NEW

L ENG

AND

HIG

A HW

NEW

HUNTER EXPRESSWAY

Hig hwa y Gol den

Ta lg

Ro ad

Talg a

ND LA

E AL

AD RO

Road

rne de

ad Ro

Wilderness Road

Deasys Road Wilderness Road

Majors La ne

E IN

ad Ro Palmers Lane

MITAGE RO HER AD

MCDONALDS ROAD

Green Lane

Mears La n e Bernard Road

Palmers Lane

LOVEDALE ROAD

UNTRY DRIVE CO

Ch ar lto

Brickmans Lane

Gillards Road

Pu tty Ro ad

ad Ro

L odge Road

BROKE ROAD

15KM>

<15KM

BROKE ROAD

Campbells Lane

Roa d

s yer

Lomas Lane

D MC

ad y Ro Putt

SR OA D

Fletcher Racecourse Lne

Fleming st

OAKEY CREEK ROAD

AN LL

e Road

AD O

CE NT

t Bright Road Moun

ET RE ST

Mount View Road

OM LL O

ABERDARE ROAD ent Vinc

ew Road Vi

eet

Bimb M

ou nt

adeen Road Kendall Str eet

e Roa d dR oa

AD RO

ie l

illf

El l

OR G RE AT N

Sandy Creek Road

oad long R rrobo

Cr e ek R oad

.5 K

Quo

<2 4

Middl

CESSNOCK Str

AD RO

Ro ad

VIN

MOUNT VIEW ROAD

Ce d

NG SI OS

ee k

WOLLOMBI ROAD

T LA AI M

E AL D

Marrowbone Road

W Cr

ad Ro

DRIVE NTRY COU NE WI

Ingles Lne

O ’Connors Road

Kerlew Street

rr Ma

bon

MOUNT VIEW CR

k ee Cr

Ironbark Lane

Street

O’Connors Road

OAKEY CREEK ROAD

WOLLOMBI o ng Ya

NULKABA McCarthy Road

De Beyers Road

Olsen Road

De Beyers Road

ES YN PA

WHERE AM I?

Londons Road

E IV

Tho mpso ns

R YD TR UN CO

ROA D

Ekerts Road

E IN W

De Beyers Road

WOLLO MBI

oad E kerts R

Halls Road

BROKE ROAD

POKOLBIN SOUTH

D LOVEDALE ROA

30KM>

POKOLBIN NORTH

LOVEDALE ROAD

Wil

ad Ro

ys as

d Roa

U E CO

Putty Road

ES SW A

WI N

sys Dea

MCDONALDS ROAD

Ro ad

BROKE FORDWICH

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

Talg a Ro ad

Talga Road

Palmers Lane

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.

Coulson Road

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THINGS TO SEE & DO

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Visit the Hunter Distillery – If you’ve ever wondered how spirits are distilled, then Hunter Distillery is the place visit. Take a tour and then take part in their unique test tube tastings, where you can sample their range of award-winning vodkas, schnapps, gins and liqueurs from test tubes! See pages 20 and 29 for details.

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WINE C OUNTRY DRIV E

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Picturesque views from Blueberry Hill Vineyard

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.

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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.

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Sandy Creek Road

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Black Creek Farm & Thélème Wines

Blueberry Hill Vineyard

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Calais Estate

Constable Estate

EXP. Restaurant

First Creek Wines

Gemelli Estate

Hunter Distillery

Hunter's Dream

Leogate Estate Wines

Matilda Bay Brewhouse

Mistletoe Winery

Misty Glen Wines

Moorebank Vineyard

Muse Kitchen

Oakvale Wines

Peacock Hill Vineyard

Peter Drayton Wines

RidgeView Wines & Restaurant

The Verandah Restaurant

Thomas Wines

Tintilla Estate

Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen

MAP AND FEATURED DESTINATIONS A RidgeView Wines & Restaurant

H RD OLD NORT

IRONBARK HILL RD

COULSON RD

Tintilla Estate Mistletoe Winery

Blueberry Hill Vineyard

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Misty Glen Wines

Hunter’s Dream

MISTLETOE LN

Matilda Bay Brewhouse

Thomas Wines

DEASYS RD

Muse Kitchen

PALMERS LN

Gemelli Estate

Constable Estate Vineyard GILLARD

EXP. Restaurant F Oakvale Wines Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen

The Verandah Restaurant & Calais Estate

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Leogate Estate Wines

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BROKE RD

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First Creek Wines

Peacock Hill Vineyard

Hunter Distillery

Moorebank

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Peter Drayton Wines

Black Creek Farm & Thélème Wines

SWEETWATER RD

HERMITAGE RD

BROKE RD

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

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Witness the magic happen in the Kitchen at EXP Restaurant

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

BLACK CREEK FARM - THÉLÈME WINES 803 Old North Road, Rothbury PH 0410-491-572 www.blackcreekfarm.com.au thelemewines@blackcreekfarm.com.au

OPENING HOURS Friday to Monday 10AM - 4PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Good Friday GROUPS Welcome. Bookings required for groups of more than 5

BLACK CREEK FARM is an iconic vineyard located only moments from the heart of Pokolbin. Our French Provincial

inspired boutique cellar door oﬀers guests a premium selection of single vineyard white, Rosé and Red wines in a relaxed and picturesque setting.

THÉLÈME WINES is derived from our French Heritage. We are proud to welcome you for a tasting and share our story.

WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay RED WINES Cabernet-Merlot, Shiraz, Rosé WINEMAKER Nick Paterson PRICING From $28 per bottle

THÉLÈME WINES

Do not hesitate to call and let us know when you plan to visit our Cellar Door.

Warmest Regards, Jean & Nadine Brochut

MAP REF: B7 H U N T E R VA L L E Y

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 Palmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

MAP REF: E7

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 18

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 conďŹ nes 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 reďŹ&#x201A;ection 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 Wed to Sun 12PM - 3PM DINNER Wed to Sat 6PM - 9PM Closed Christmas Day PRICE GUIDE Tasting menu, 5 courses starting at $85 8 courses $110

MAP REF: F2

FIRST CREEK WINES 600 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-2992 www.firstcreekwines.com.au cellardoor@firstcreekwines.com.au

HUNTER VALLEY WINEMAKER OF THE YEAR 2016 & 2011 First Creek Wines is a family owned and operated winery based in the Hunter Valley. The talented family of winemakers comprises of award-winning Liz (Hunter Valley Winemaker of the Year 2016 and 2011), Shaun and Greg Silkman, whose emphasis on careful fruit selection and rigorous attention to detail produces a range of wines that appeal to critics and consumers alike.

WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days - Mon to Wed 9AM - 6PM, Thurs to Sat 9AM - 7PM, Sun 10AM - 5PM 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 WINEMAKER Liz Silkman PRICE RANGE $20 to $60/bottle

MAP REF: F7 POKOLBIN NORTH

GEMELLI ESTATE 168 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998-7910 Gemelli Estate is a boutique family owned and operated business. All our grapes are hand-picked to make our exclusive selection of wines including our selection of bubbles, which are all hand disgorged on site. Wanting to linger a little longer? Why not come and enjoy a cheese platter, a glass of wine and take in 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 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.

www.HunterDistillery.com.au info@HunterDistillery.com.au 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!

HUNTER’S DREAM 149 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-6509 DREAMS ARE MADE OF THIS The creators of renowned health care company Nature’s Care bring you an estate like no other in the Hunter region. Enjoy the serenity and elegance of beautiful lavender ﬁelds, explore the ever evolving Asian display garden and discover the natural secrets of many of the Nature’s Care health supplements. With award winning wines crafted by master wine maker Kees van de Scheur and David Fatches, Hunter’s Dream is the place to leave the everyday behind and do some dreaming of your own. Weddings, events or just yourself are all welcome.

www.huntersdream.com.au admin.hd@naturescare.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Mon to Fri 10AM – 4.30PM Sat & Sun 10AM – 5PM Closed Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Welcome. Bookings required for bus tour groups WHITE WINES Semillon, SemillonSauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay RED WINES Cabernet SauvignonShiraz, Shiraz SPARKLING WINES Sparkling Cuvee, Sparkling Brut Pinot Noir Chardonnay WINEMAKERS Kees van de Scheur and David Fatches PRICE RANGE From $20.50 to $45

WINERY TOURS

POKOLBIN NORTH

MAP REF: D4

LEOGATE ESTATE WINES

1693 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998-7499

The elegant, sophisticated and awardwinning wines produced by Leogate Estate have attracted much recognition in the industry with numerous gold, silver and bronze medals awarded across a range of categories. One of the proudest achievements to date came in 2014, when their flagship wine, “The Basin” Reserve Shiraz 2011, was voted World’s Best New Wine at the 2014 International Wine Challenge held in London. The 2013 and 2014 vintages of “The Basin” are presently served on Qantas International flights in First Class and the Brokenback Shiraz on Business Class. Nestled proudly in the foothills of the picturesque Brokenback Range, Leogate Estate strikes a majestic presence on the Hunter Valley landscape. Leogate Estate boasts a stunning vineyard and winery whilst offering a contemporary tasting room, restaurant and function centre. With spectacular rural views the Estate delivers a wonderful life experience, combine this with the Crystal Room’s elegant décor, creating the perfect ambience for that special wedding or private function.

www.leogate.com.au sales@leogate.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Open 7 days 10AM - 5PM Groups welcome, bookings necessary WHITE WINES Chardonnay, Verdelho, Semillon, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer RED WINES Shiraz, Rosé, Tempranillo SPARKLING Chardonnay, Libertine Frizzante Blanc and Rouge AWARDS 17 Trophies and numerous Gold, Silver and Bronze Medals WINEMAKER Mark Woods PRICE RANGE From $22 per bottle James Halliday Australian Wine Companion 5-star Winery

Cellar Door: 7 days, 10am-5pm Villa du Pays: Lunch 7 days, 11:30am-3pm Dinner Friday & Saturday 6-9pm

MAP REF: F2

POKOLBIN NORTH

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

MAP REF: C2

MISTLETOE WINERY 771 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7770 Now in its 29th 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.

POKOLBIN NORTH

www.mistletoewines.com.au oﬃce@mistletoewines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 DAYS 10AM - 6PM Last tastings commence at 5:3oPM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day GROUPS: Winery Tastings by Appointment Minimum 12 – maximum 30 guests. WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Viognier RED WINES Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet, Tempranillo 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.

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

Dine Al Fresco at RidgeView Restaurant

POKOLBIN NORTH

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 & 2018 HEAD CHEF Sean Townsend

MAP REF: D2

OAKVALE WINES 1596 Broke Rd Pokolbin PH 4998-7088

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

MINIMAL INTERVENTION, MINIMAL PRESERVATIVES, PURELY UNADULTERATED WINE Family owned and operated, we are passionate about all facets of winemaking. We produce unique and distinctive premium handcrafted wines which are a true reflection of both the region and our uncompromising approach to winemaking. Minimal intervention winemaking principals lie at the core of our philosophy. We strive to incorporate sustainable vineyard and winery practices to create wines that truly reflect the unique terroir of our vineyards, free from unnecessary manipulation. What does this mean? minimal use of preservatives, no animal fining agents, pesticide free fruit and no hangover! Our wines are sold exclusively through our Cellar Door which nestles serenely at the base of the Brokenback Range.

POKOLBIN NORTH

SPECIALTIES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Apple Cider & Bellini WINEMAKER James Becker RESTAURANT EXP Restaurant

MAP REF: F2

PEACOCK HILL 29 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998-7661

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

TAKE THE CHALLENGE Two Fat Blokes dare you to start the day with our Breakfast Tower.

THEN IF YOU DARE... Take chilli to the max by eating your way though our Chilli Con Carne for lunch. How hot can you go?

Open for Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days 1616 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 6699 www.twofatblokes.com.au POKOLBIN NORTH

PETER DRAYTON WINES 694 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin PH 6574-7085 www.pdwines.com.au cellardoor@pdwines.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 Days Monday - Saturday 10AM 5PM, Sunday 11AM - 4PM GROUPS Small groups welcome. Please contact our Cellar Door to arrange groups and tours for tastings ACCOMMODATION One Retreat that sleeps up to 15, and six 1 and 2 bedroom Villas NEW Onsite Brewery, Restaurant and Winery

Peter Drayton is a proud producer of a range of award winning wines at his Ironbark Hill Vineyard. Set at the foot of the Brokenback Range, the 40-hectare property with 18 hectares under vine includes a Cellar Door, Restaurant, Wedding Chapel, Function Centre, Accommodation and a newly built custom Craft Brewery. The vineyard produces wine from the grape varieties for which the Hunter is famous, including Shiraz, Semillon and Chardonnay. It also has extensive plantings of Verdelho, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Barbera, Montepulciano and the CSIRO hybrid grape, Tyrian. As well as delicately crafted premium dry wines, Peter Drayton Wines also produces Sparkling wines and a selection of Liqueur Fortified wines. The extent of the range is truly exceptional for a small boutique producer. The Cellar Door is open daily and welcomes small groups and tours for tastings.

WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Sparkling Semillon Chardonnay RED WINES Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rosé, Tyrian SPARKLING WINES Semillon Chardonnay Sparkling WINEMAKER Peter Drayton and Damien Stevens PRICING From $22 per bottle

MAP REF: B1

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 Group menus available, prices starting from $49 per person SPECIALTIES Tapas Towers Fri – Sun Lunch Contemporary tapas style dining Dining with a view

MAP REF: E7

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 POKOLBIN NORTH

THOMAS WINES Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998-7134 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 WINES Semillon & Shiraz WINEMAKER Andrew Thomas AWARDS 2017 Hunter Valley Cellar Door of the Year; Hunter Valley Winemaker of the year 2008 & 2014

Specialising in Hunter Valley Semillon & Shiraz

PRICE RANGE From $20 - $75/bottle

Keep it simple is the philosophy at Thomas Wines. Owner & Winemaker, Andrew Thomas has three decades of winemaking experience in the Hunter Valley producing small parcels of world class, uniquely regional Semillon & Shiraz. 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. Visit our Cellar Door and experience a journey through some of the Hunter Valley’s most distinguished Semillon & Shiraz, many of which have become modern benchmarks for the region. RATED WINERY BY JAMES HALLIDAY

MAP REF: C2

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 - $30 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 - $38

Bookings essential. MAP REF: F2 28

POKOLBIN NORTH

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

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 #14 2018 | 29

FARM to FORK

at Circa 1876 WORDS Ellen Hill

The secret ingredient to the Circa 1876 menu is simple: bees. Bees and the veggie garden brimming with organic produce next to one of the most savoured restaurants in the Hunter Valley.

much of this produce as possible and sourcing the rest from local areas," Barrett said.

The creative excellence of the menu design is without question, and the restaurant’s multi-award status is proof.

The "paddock to plate" philosophy is practised at the luxury Pokolbin property through the organic kitchen garden, beehives, quail farm and free range chickens.

However, its executive chef Trent Barrett’s genuine passion for the environment, sustainability and fresh organic produce which sets Circa 1876 and Restaurant Eighty-Eight in the main accommodation house at Escarpment Group-owned The Convent apart in a world of trends and token gestures.

Such passion, philosophy and inspiration could be summed up in the Circa 1876 signature dish: Three Parts Duck – crispy skin duck breast, slow cooked duck egg, braised duck tongue, saltbush, fresh black and white truffle, potato truffle foam, jamon and asparagus.

In recent years, Circa 1876 was awarded one Australian Good Food Guide chef’s hat in 2016 and was a World Luxury Hotels Award winner in 2015. It was also awarded the NSW Restaurant & Catering Awards 2015 best regional fine dining restaurant and best restaurant caterer. Experimenting with new and traditional techniques – with a modern Australian twist, Circa 1876’s contemporary cuisine combines colour, texture and flavour "from what nature provides us, growing as 30 | ISSUE #14 2018

Sample the modern Australian menu of Circa 1876 under the whimsical luxury of classical chandeliers hanging from exposed beams of the 1800s slab cottage for lunch and dinner Friday to Tuesday overlooking the organic kitchen garden. Choose from two, three and five-course tasting menu options. Alternatively, indulge in the flavours of the kitchen garden at Restaurant Eighty-Eight overlooking the charming wisteria garden in the main house. It is open for breakfast seven days, afternoon high tea Saturday and Sunday and dinner from Wednesday to Saturday.

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

TOP of their Game!

The Hunter’s reputation as a wine region is among the best in the business – but there’s nothing hotter right now than what’s cooking in our kitchens.

Robert & Sally Molines

The Hunter is home to some of the most creative and edgy restaurants making their presence felt on the regional culinary stage, with the much-celebrated hatted trio of Muse Restaurant, Muse Kitchen and Bistro Molines leading the way. One of the most respected names in Australia’s food scene is undoubtedly Robert Molines. The European-trained chef moved to the Hunter Valley with his wife Sally in 1973 and is renowned as the man who brought French food to the region. He is now widely regarded as one of the great Hunter Valley chefs - as much a part of the region as Semillon - but it was his childhood in Algeria and France that exposed him to a mix of French, Italian and Mediterranean cultures and sparked his interest in food. Robert arrived in Australia in 1968 where he gained experience with renowned restaurants such as Eliza’s in Double Bay and Beppi’s in Sydney before moving to the Hunter to take on the role of Chef Manager at the Happy Valley Restaurant in Pokolbin.

Troy Rhoades-Brown

Culinary Hall of Fame alongside other legendary Australian chefs and has received Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide chef’s hat awards each year since 2010. But his enduring legacy is the way he has nurtured a generation of the Hunter’s top chefs, including Lesley Taylor (Robert’s first apprentice) and Troy RhoadesBrown.

Since then, Robert and Sally have operated a number of well-known restaurants that include the Cellar Restaurant at Hungerford Hill, The Verandah Restaurant at Calais Estate, as well as the multi-awardwinning Roberts at Pepper Tree, which they opened in 1991.

Troy is the perfect example of a top-class chef currently creating gastronomical delights in the Hunter. After taking out the title of Young Restaurateur of the Year 2014 at the Appetite for Excellence Awards, he was named the Next Gen Chef in Delicious Magazine’s 10th annual Produce Awards in 2015, cementing his status as one of the nation’s most exciting culinary talents.

In 2008, Robert and Sally made the inspired decision to start Bistro Molines – a one chef hat rated traditional French bistro located at Tallavera Grove Vineyard in Mount View.

In 2005 Troy was awarded the Brett Graham Scholarship, a highly coveted accolade that comes with the chance to undertake work experience at the famed UK restaurant The Ledbury.

It is here that Robert has truly been in his element and it shows – he was inducted into the JK Walker

A few years later Troy and his wife Megan took the plunge into the world of restaurant ownership, opening

32 | ISSUE #14 2018

Muse Restaurant (two chef’s hats) in 2009 followed by Muse Kitchen (one chef’s hat) in 2011.

Frank Fawkner

While Troy may have only dipped his toe into the London dining world, Andy Wright grew up fully immersed in the scene. After completing his apprenticeship in 1983, Andy spent a decade working at various hotels and restaurants before becoming the Head Chef at the House of Lords in 1994. He migrated to Australia in 1996 and became the Sous Chef at the Nikko Hotel, Darling Harbour before moving to the Hunter Valley in 1997 where he worked as the Head Chef at Roberts Restaurant, later moving on to Pipette at Cypress Lakes and Seasons Restaurant at Hunter Valley Gardens. He and his wife Janet became part owners of The Cellar Restaurant in 2002, before taking control completely in 2005. Another Sydney-born chef who gave in to the temptation of a Hunter “tree change” is head chef Brian Duncan - the man behind one of the wine region’s most popular restaurants, Hunters Quarter at Cockfighters Ghost Vineyard, Pokolbin. Describing his style as modern European, Brian brings a wealth of well-travelled experience in fine dining to the Hunter’s culinary scene, having worked at the Dorchester Hotel (three Michelin stars) and Claridges Hotel (one Michelin star) in London.

Plaza Hunter Valley before heading overseas to work for Tom Aikens at “Tom’s Kitchen” in Chelsea, London. On his return to Australia, Frank took up a position at Muse Restaurant working with Troy and Megan Rhoades-Brown, where he later became Head Chef. In March 2015, Frank fulfilled a long-held dream to go out on his own, setting up EXP. Restaurant at the historic Oakvale Winery in Pokolbin. With its hand-crafted furniture, open-style kitchen and colour-coded crockery designed to cleverly reflect the theme of the menu, Frank has made his mark on the Hunter’s culinary landscape with his creative dishes, culinary skills and unique dining experience.

Brian was also the executive chef at two of Sydney’s most iconic venues - Level 41 and The Establishment – and even cooked for Russian President Vladimir Putin during the 2014 Winter Olympics! Creativity is also at the heart of fellow Hunter-bred chef Frank Fawkner’s culinary outlook. After beginning his cooking career at the age of 15 at the Mount Broke Wines cafe, he stayed close to home as part of the team involved in the opening of Crowne Andy Wright

Brian Duncan. Photo by Chris Elfes ISSUE #14 2018 | 33

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Sandy Creek Road

Baumé Restaurant, Café, Bar

Ben Ean

Drayton’s Family Wines

Elbourne Wines

Y Y

Ernest Hill Wines

Goldfish Bar and Kitchen

Hanging Tree Wines

Harrigan’s Irish Pub

Hungerford Hill

Hunter Beer Co

Hunter Valley Chocolate Co.

C3/C6

Iron Gate Estate

Ivanhoe Wines

Kevin Sobels Wine

Lambloch Estate & Pokolbin Cider House

Locavore Dining/ Epoche Lounge Bar McLeish Estate

Hunters Quarter Restaurant

Y Y

Meerea Park

Mount Pleasant Wines

Muse Restaurant

Nanna Kerr's Kitchen

Oishii Japanese Thai

Peterson House

Petersons Wines

Pokolbin Estate

Restaurant Cuvee

Restaurant Eighty Eight

Y Y

Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar

Tamburlaine Organic Wines

The Brickworks Brasserie For more information about events visit www.huntervalleyonline.com.au.

De Beyers Road

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.

Campbells Lane

Road

POKOLBIN SOUTH

ES YN PA

Balloon over the Valley – Take to the skies in the quiet of the morning with Balloon Aloft as they take you up, up and away in one of their hot-air balloons and be amazed by the breathtaking views. Then enjoy a ‘Bubbly Breakfast’ at Restaurant Cuvee at Peterson House. For more information visit www.balloonaloft.com

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Elements

THINGS TO SEE & DO

BROKE ROAD

Ekerts Road

D LOVEDALE ROA

30KM>

BROKE ROAD

Circa 1876

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.

<15KM

Blaxland Inn

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.

LOVEDALE L odge Road

BROKE ROAD

15KM>

NAME

Ben Ean - Back to its former glory

Brickmans Lane

Gillards Road

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POKOLBIN WHERE SOUTH WINE AM I? & DINE TRAIL

Mi lbr od ale

Green Lane

MCDONALDS ROAD

MITAGE RO HER AD

Thompsons Rd

BROKE FORDWICH

The Cellar Restaurant The Red Apron

Wynwood Estate

MAP AND FEATURED DESTINATIONS Roche Estate Complex Oishii Japanese Thai Goldﬁsh Bar & Kitchen Meerea Park

Hunter Valley Gardens Village Hunter Valley Chocolate Co. The Cellar Restaurant

Harrigan’s Irish Pub BROKE

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EKERTS RD

PS M D

RS RD

MCDO NALD

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DEBEYE

Ernest Hill Wines The Brickworks Brasserie & Hunter Beer Co.

Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen

Locavore Dining & Epoche Lounge Bar Drayton’s Family Wines

G Winery/Cellar Door Restaurant/ Café Providore/ Gourmet Produce

Hanging Tree Wines

O’CONN O

FLEMING ST

RS RD

OAKE Y CRE E K RD

Elbourne Wines

MAR ROW B

MAP LEGEND

Wynwood Estate

INGLES LN

Ivanhoe Wines

Iron Gate Estate

ONE R

Mount Pleasant Wines & The Red Apron

OAK

Muse Restaurant

Hungerford Hill

R TRY D COUN WINE

SR ON

Hunters Quarter DEBEYERS RD

Ben Ean & Baumé

Kevin Sobels Wines

Circa 1876 2320 HV Tamburlaine Chocolate Co. Organic Wines Restaurant Sabor in the Hunter Pokolbin Estate & Eighty Eight D & Lambloch Estate/ Hunter Olive Centre SR ER Y The Pokolbin Cider BE DE House McLeish Estate Wines

HALLS RD

O TH

Blaxland Inn

EEK R

HV Chocolate Co. Peterson House & Restaurant Cuvee

Petersons BROKE RD Wines

EY C R

Enjoy the vineyard views while dining at Hunters Quarter

POKOLBIN SOUTH

BAUMÉ RESTAURANT, CAFÉ, BAR 119 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin PH 4993-3705 At Baumé (pronounced bow - may) we source the best of local ingredients and tend to them with love to create a casual family style experience. Start with some small tasting plates to tempt the taste buds, then enjoy our shared signature dishes; created to be served in the middle of the table accompanied by a range of garden fresh sides and salads. If you are after something a little lighter, then try our delicious pastas or house made wood fire pizzas. Don’t forget to enjoy some of our handcrafted desserts after your meal with a coffee, tea or digestive.

www.benean.com.au baume@benean.com.au OPENING HOURS Baumé Restaurant LUNCH 7 Days 11AM - 4PM DINNER Thurs to Mon 6PM - late Ben Ean Cellar Door OPEN 7 Days Mon to Sat 9AM - 5PM Sun 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Good Friday GROUPS Welcome. Bookings essential for large groups DINING STYLE Casual SPECIALITIES Share concept, Mediterranean, Pizza, Pasta, Salads. Everything is local and house made.

MAP REF: E2

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 ambience, with friendly staff and great value meals, a trip to the Hunter Valley would not be complete without calling in to see us. Dine on the veranda all year round or inside by our open fire during Winter. With an outdoor campfire too, 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! 36

POKOLBIN SOUTH

MAP REF: C5

CIRCA 1876 64 Hall Road, Pokolbin PH 4998-4999 Set in the expansive acreage of the luxury boutique hotel The Convent Hunter Valley, and surrounded by rich produce ﬁlled kitchen gardens. Circa 1876 literally brings the ‘paddock to plate’ ethos to life as guests overlook the organic kitchen garden that their food came from just beyond their plate. Circa 1876 is a tranquil culinary treat pleasing to lovers of both food and wine. H U N T E R

www.circa1876.com.au reservations@circa1876.com.au OPENING HOURS Fri to Tues (Closed Wed & Thurs) LUNCH 12PM - 2:30PM DINNER 5:30PM - 9PM GROUPS Bookings essential. Cancellation policies apply DINING STYLE Fine Dining PRICE GUIDE 2 Course $75pp/ 3 Course $95pp and Degustation Menu available

MAP REF: D5

V A L L E Y

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

ELBOURNE WINES 236 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin PH 4998-6996 Rated 5 Stars & “TOP 10 BEST NEW WINERIES IN AUSTRALIA” in the 2018 James Halliday wine companion, this is a truly boutique family vineyard. The 2ha vineyards produce high quality, multiple award winning, Chardonnay & Shiraz. Private tastings are a relaxed & personal experience, designed to make our customers & members feel part of the Elbourne Wines “family”.

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

www.elbournewines.com.au elbournewines@bigpond.com OPENING HOURS By Appointment only. GROUPS Welcome by appointment. Maximum group size of 10. WINEMAKER Nick Paterson PRICE GUIDE From $35 to $45 per bottle. MAP REF: G4 POKOLBIN SOUTH

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

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

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar

POKOLBIN SOUTH

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, 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

MAP REF: C4

POKOLBIN SOUTH

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 or getaway, or pop in today to taste our awardwinning wines!

HANGING TREE 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, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Traminer RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz Cabernet, Grenache Merlot SPARKLING Brut & Moscato SWEETS Tawny Trop, Muscat, Botrytis Semillon, Sweet Shiraz SPECIALTIES & AWARDS 2017 Semillon, Gold - 2017 Hunter Valley Boutique Winemakers Show & Silver - 2017 Hunter Valley Wine Show WINEMAKERS Michael Hudson, Gary MacLean and Liz Jackson PRICE RANGE From $25 - $80/bottle MAP REF: F6

HARRIGANS IRISH PUB Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-4300 Harrigan’s Irish Pub is the place to go for family friendly casual dining, live music and a cold pint when you’re in the heart of Hunter Valley Wine Country. The pub oﬀers excellent meals in a friendly relaxed atmosphere with all the charm of a traditional Irish Tavern. The bistro at Harrigan’s is well known for its great quality, service and value for money. The menu features a good selection of hearty pub meals, including our renowned Beef & Guinness Pie, which provides visitors with a great alternative to café and restaurant meals. With an open ﬁre in the cooler months and an extensive deck and outdoor dining area available on warmer days there are plenty of options at Harrigan’s! The free jumping castle is on hand to keep the kids entertained. Plus, Harrigan’s host regular events and live entertainment ensure there’s always something happening. The sports bar features a great selection of beers and Hunter Valley wines, plus the only TAB in the winery precinct. Good times, great food and cool ale are always standard fare at Harrigan’s Irish Pub.

POKOLBIN SOUTH

www.harrigans.com.au enquiries@harrigans.com.au DINING STYLE Casual pub-style dining, family friendly

OPENING HOURS BREAKFAST 7 Days 7AM - 10.30AM LUNCH 7 Days 12PM - 3PM DINNER 7 Nights 5.30PM - 9PM CLOSED 25th December GROUPS Bookings essential

SPECIALTIES Beef & Guinness Pie and the crispy Chicken Schnitzel AWARDS Sydney Morning Herald - Top 3 Best Country Pubs 2010. Score 18/20 PRICE GUIDE Main meals from $18.90 to $39

MAP REF: C3

RECR EATING H ISTORY 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 POKOLBIN SOUTH

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.

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 Tawny, Liqueur Muscat WINEMAKER Bryan Currie PRICE RANGE From $22 to $120/ bottle AWARDS 2018 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 19 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! ALL STORES OPEN 7 DAYS! 42

POKOLBIN SOUTH

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 MAP REF: C3/C6

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 www.irongateestate.com sales@irongateestate.com 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 PRICE RANGE From $25 - $40/bottle

Where every taste is an experience. Come and experience a full range of hand crafted, single vineyard wines at one of the most beautiful and stylish wineries in the Hunter Valley.

MAP REF: G7 POKOLBIN SOUTH

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 - $85/ Bottle WHITE WINES Chardonnay, Semillon, Verdelho, Botrytis Semillon, Moscato, Pinot Grigio RED WINES Shiraz, Chambourcin, Shiraz Cabernet, Shiraz Grenache, Shiraz Pressings (Big Red), Late Picked Cabernet SPARKLING Sparkling Maiden (Moscato/Traminer blend) FORTIFIED WINES Aged Liqueur Verdelho, Tawny Port

MAP REF: F2

KEVIN SOBELS WINES 5 Halls Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7766 Kevin Sobels Wines is a family owned business, producing 100% Hunter Valley Wines from locally grown grapes, and with Kevin, wife Margaret and son Jason playing a key role in the day-to-day running of the business from their unique and purpose built cellar door which is open 7 days a week. With Kevin being a 5th generation Australian winemaker, the Sobels family continues a long and unbroken wine making tradition in Australia which commenced when Carl August Sobels migrated to South Australia with his family in 1847 after learning the art of winemaking in both Champagne and Germany. Carl, history informs us, is recognised as having made the ﬁrst wines in the Barossa Valley in 1848.

Like his ancestors, Kevin Sobels and wife Margaret share the same love and dedication of the wine making industry and the making of high quality and distinctive styles of wine which are made with the consumer in mind. The winery which can be considered small and modern, utilises a mix of both new and traditional methods to producing the high quality wines Kevin Sobels Wines is renowned for and which are not readily available in the retail sector . Kevin Sobels Wines has developed a strong following over the years and have also become aﬀectionately known by visitors to the Hunter Valley as ‘’the winery with the big dog”. Archie, the St Bernard is always present to give visitors to the cellar door a warm welcome.

www.sobelswines.com.au kevin@sobelswines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days Mon - Fri 9AM to 5PM Sat & Sun 9.30AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & Good Friday GROUPS Welcome with booking WHITE WINES Semillon, Quartet, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Traminer RED WINES Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, SweetnLuverley SPARKLING White, Red, Muscato (as we call it) FORTIFIED WINES White Port, Tawny Port SPECIALTIES White Port WINEMAKER Jason Sobels PRICE RANGE From $16 - $50/bottle

Drop into the Cellar Door and you may meet Kevin Sobels who is the 2014 Hunter Valley Living Legend of Wine (as well as Archie, the Cellar Door Dog!)

POKOLBIN SOUTH

MAP REF: C5

LAMBLOCH ESTATE & POKOLBIN CIDER HOUSE 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

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 Locavore refers to the food movement of eating locally produced ingredients. Our menu features ingredients from our own kitchen produce garden and from local Hunter Valley producers. Paddock and Estate to plate. Jason Martin, our executive chef seasonally changes his menu to showcase the regions’ best produce. 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 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 POKOLBIN SOUTH

McLEISH ESTATE 462 De Beyers Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7754 Australia’s Most Awarded Boutique Winery Celebrating 33rd Vintage Family owned since 1985 Awarded at the 2018 Sydney International Wine Competition: TROPHY – Best Light Bodied White Wine TROPHY – Best Medium Bodied White Wine TROPHY – Best White Wine of Show TROPHY – Runner up Best Wine of Competition Awarded at the 2016 London International Wine Challenge: TROPHY – World’s Best Semillon TROPHY – Australia’s Best Semillon TROPHY – NSW Best Semillon

www.mcleishestatewines.com.au info@mcleishestatewines.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

Experience our ultra-premium range of Estate grown wines at our Boutique cellar door.

MAP REF: E4

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. 46

POKOLBIN SOUTH

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

MOUNT PLEASANT 401 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin PH 4998-7505 James Halliday Winery of the Year 2017

Established in 1921, the estate has been consistent in delivering iconic wine styles that speak of their origins and the wineries extensive heritage. It was here that one of the founding fathers of the modern Australian wine industry, Maurice O’Shea went against convention and made wines that he believed the region could create. Almost 100 years on, our people continue to be the guardians of this legacy. Winery tours operate daily at 11am from Cellar Door for $15 per person, bookings essential.

www.mountpleasantwines.com.au mpcellardoor@mcwilliamswines.com.au

OPENING HOURS 7 Days, 10am – 4pm. Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Good Friday GROUPS Welcome. Bookings essential WINEMAKER Adrian Sparks PRICE GUIDE $20 to $250/bottle MAP REF: G3

WINERY TOURS

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.

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 2018, 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 & 2017 The Australian HEAD CHEF Mitchell Beswick PRICE GUIDE 4 course Dinner menu from $105 pp, Lunch menus from $75pp

MAP REF: C7

Life is flat without bubbles from Peterson House

POKOLBIN SOUTH

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

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 - Check out www.feast-kerrsorganic.com 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

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

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

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 Tempranillo, Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Nebbiolo PINK WINE Nebbiolo Rosé 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

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 POKOLBIN SOUTH

RESTAURANT EIGHTY EIGHT 88 Halls Road, Pokolbin PH 4998-4999 The restaurant strongly focuses on using organic produce that is ethical and sustainable with the vast majority sourced from the Estate’s nearby organic kitchen garden, chicken coop, bee hive and quail eggs from our onsite Japanese quails. Indulge in a quintessential ‘paddock to plate’ experience whilst dining in one of the Hunter Valley’s most prestigious destinations – The Convent RESTAURANT Hunter Valley.

www.convent.com.au reservations@convent.com.au OPENING HOURS BREAKFAST 7 Days 8AM - 10AM HIGH TEA Sat & Sun 12PM - 4PM DINNER Wed & Thurs 5:30PM - 9PM GROUPS Bookings essential. Cancellation policies apply PRICE GUIDE Breakfast from $35pp; High Tea from $48pp; Dinner 2 Course $65pp/ 3 Course $85pp

MAP REF: D5

SABOR IN THE HUNTER At Lambloch Estate, 2342 Broke Rd, Pokolbin. PH 1300 958 939 THE VALLEYS SWEET SPOT!

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.

SABOR HUNTER IN THE

www.saborinthehunter.com.au saborpokolbin@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Thurs, Fri, Sun & Mon 10AM 4:30PM; Sat 10AM - 5:30PM GROUPS & TOURS Bookings essential (set menu prices) Small function room available for large bookings.

DESSERT BAR

MAP REF: C6

TAMBURLAINE ORGANIC WINES 358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-4200 www.tamburlaine.com.au info@tamburlaine.com.au

#Contemporary Organics With local, national and international 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.

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 52

POKOLBIN SOUTH

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

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 POKOLBIN SOUTH

THE RED APRON 401 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin PH 0433-350-584 Located at award-winning Mount Pleasant vineyard, the idyllic courtyard offers spectacular views, where you can enjoy locally produced coffee and wines with culinary delights that will tease and awaken the senses, The Red Apron gourmet kitchen delights in using local & seasonal produce wherever possible and prides itself on providing good, tasty food – whether it is a bacon & egg roll on the go or one of its specially made dishes for you to sit and enjoy.

www.mountpleasantwines.com.au info@theredapron.com.au OPENING HOURS Thurs to Mon 8.30AM - 4PM. *Other times - if the open sign is out on the gate. Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Good Friday GROUPS Bookings appreciated for larger groups (12+) MAINS PRICE GUIDE $20 to $40 MAP REF: G3

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

MAP REF: G5

Find a decandent spread at Muse Restaurant

POKOLBIN SOUTH

Adrian Sparks. Image by Chris Elfes

ADRIAN SPARKS

Senior Winemaker -

McWilliam’s Wines

A passionate advocate for NSW wines, Adrian Sparks has developed a career around sharing with the world wines of elegance, provenance and ultimate drinkability. Joining the ranks of one of Australia’s premier wine families McWilliam’s Wines in 1998, Adrian was able to explore and experiment with a plethora of different wine styles. It was here that he honed his craft and developed a deep love for white wines and in particular Chardonnay, a varietal in which he has had incredible success. Chardonnay wines developed under Adrian’s meticulous and skilful hand have been awarded numerous trophies, medals and commendations including NSW Wine of the Year in 2013, Best Young Dry White Table Wine of Show at the 2013 Melbourne Wine Show and Best Table Wine of Show Trophy at the 2006 Vintage Cellars National Wine Show. His gift with white wines did not go unnoticed by the McWilliam’s family. In 2014, Adrian was moved from their Hanwood winery in the Riverina to take up a Winemaker role at the iconic Mount Pleasant, located in the spiritual home of Semillon – the Hunter Valley.

It was at Mount Pleasant that Adrian continued to flourish, becoming a great champion for the region in the winery and on the judging circuit. As an Advanced Wine Assessment Course (AWAC) graduate, Adrian has been in high demand to sit on judging panels across Australia and has proudly represented the Hunter Valley wine fraternity at the likes of The James Halliday Chardonnay Challenge, Australian National Wine Show, Brisbane Royal Wine Show and many others. In 2017 Adrian had the great honour of being selected from hundreds of skilled wine industry professionals to take part in the prestigious Len Evans Tutorial. This once-in-a-lifetime course has some of Australia’s best and brightest as part of its alumni, including Chief Group Winemaker for McWilliam’s Jim Chatto. Running since 2001, this tutorial has been described by prolific Australian Wine personality James Halliday as "the most exclusive wine school in the world". Accepting only 12 scholars from more than 150 applicants each year, these select places go to those who have proved themselves to be the cream of the Australian wine industry. Adrian has also continued to push the boundaries of his winemaking and that of his team by travelling extensively throughout the wine regions of Europe and North America. He has completed vintages in Bordeaux, Burgundy and Limoux which have continued to shape his wine style and philosophy. ISSUE #14 2018 | 55

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

Hungerford Hill

NEW DIRECTIONS FOR

Hungerford Hill & Dalwood Estate Turning into Broke Road, Pokolbin, you cannot miss the Hungerford Hill building that makes for a dramatic gateway to the Hunter Valley wine region. With facilities that include a winery, underground working cellar, and a unique barrel-shaped tasting room Hungerford Hill offers some of the best wine tasting experiences in the Valley. If that was not enough, the onsite and hatted Muse Restaurant provides some of finest food in the country under the guidance and ownership of Chef Troy Rhoades-Brown. The family-owned Hungerford Hill produces a range of exemplary wines from its home in the Hunter Valley, as well as the emerging cool climate regions of Tumbarumba and Hilltops in Southern New South Wales. Like many of the well-established wineries in the Hunter Valley, Hungerford Hill’s history is a colourful one. It was initially established by Sydney entrepreneur John Parker in the 1960’s with the purchase of the “Hungerford Hill” cattle property owned by the Hungerford family.Vines were planted on the property in 1967, and in 1970 a winery was built in time for the first vintage followed by the development of Australia’s

first wine tourism complex, incorporating a restaurant, underground cellars and function centre. Parker lost control of the business in 1985 and in 1990, the Hungerford Hill brand was acquired by Southcorp, which found it a home in an old church on Mcdonalds Road in Pokolbin before being bought by the Kirby family in 2002. Needing a home that fitted their vision for Hungerford Hill, the Kirby family purchased and completed the eye-catching complex then known as One Broke Road. Hungerford Hill’s wine complex is now recognised as an icon of the Hunter Valley. In early December 2016, Sam Arnaout, who runs Sydney-based pub group and developer Iris Capital, took ownership of Hungerford Hill, complementing his first wine-related investment in the region with the earlier purchase of Sweetwater Estate. With the aim to have a much greater focus on the Hunter Valley, Arnaout went on to purchase the former Wyndham Estate property including the vineyard and winery buildings at Dalwood - adding a third winery to its Hunter portfolio alongside Hungerford Hill Wines and Sweetwater Wines. (Continued) ▶ ISSUE #14 2018 | 57

Bryan Currie

Dalwood Estate

For the past 19 years, Bryan’s winemaking career has been based in New South Wales – where he was first employed as chief winemaker at Calabria Family Wines, then as winemaking manager for McWilliam’s Wines before joining Hungerford Hill in November 2016.

(Continued) With a return to its original 1828 establishment name, Dalwood Estate boasts a heritage winery building, manicured lawns and garden beds, a function centre, cellar door, restaurant, walking trails and public barbecue areas on the banks of the Hunter River. Sam’s vision is to build the premium wine brands from all three vineyards and to continue to successfully grow and develop Hungerford Hill as a family-owned business. Bryan Currie - General Manager and Senior Winemaker Another person who has a vision for the three estates – Hungerford Hill, Sweetwater and Dalwood, is Bryan Currie who has built an impressive reputation as a talented and awarded winemaker. Currie, who became a winemaker after an early career change as a palaeontologist - is known as a talented and highly awarded winemaker and an active wine show judge. Born in Melbourne and growing up in a Gippsland dairy farming family, Bryan studied palaeontology specialising in fish evolution, at Latrobe University. On graduating, he began a career studying fossils in the university’s palaeontology department and wrote several papers on the subject. At age 20 and after spending some time working as a vineyard and cellar hand at various wineries, Bryan decided to pursue a career in wine and took up studies in Wine Science at Charles Sturt University. 58 | ISSUE #14 2018

A versatile winemaker with a passion for dessert “sticky” wines and cool-climate varieties, Bryan was nominated for Young Winemaker of the Year two years in a row in 2005 and 2006 and in 2012 was nominated for the Gourmet Traveller ‘Winemaker of the Year’ award. Bryan was also a Len Evans Tutorial scholar in 2007 and in 2009 was selected by the wine industry as a ‘Future Leader.’ Now in his early forties, Bryan has the daunting and yet exciting job of running the fast-developing wine empire of Iris Capital Group, which now includes the estates of Hungerford Hill, Sweetwater and Dalwood. A big part of that role will be to revive the Dalwood brand that hasn’t been seen for more than 40 years. Dalwood was the original name given to the now historic property by pioneer George Wyndham when he and his family settled there in 1828. “I am excited to have this fantastic opportunity to make premium wines from the diverse regions of Hunter Valley, Hilltops and Tumbarumba and to take Hungerford Hill, Sweetwater Estate and Dalwood Estate to a new level of wine quality and brand recognition in Australia and the world,” Currie said. The first grapes for vintage 2018 were harvested in January, with the first Dalwood-branded premium Chardonnay, Semillon and Shiraz wines to be released this year. ■ Hungerford Hill

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

TOP DROPS MCLEISH ESTATE WINES 2009 Cellar Reserve Semillon

NIGHTINGALE WINES 2017 Semillon Reserve

Produced using hand-harvest fruit from the single vineyard that has seen over fifty trophies awarded to McLeish Semillon, the 2009 Cellar Release Semillon is rated 96/100 in the Australian Wine Companion and awarded six trophies and 17 gold medals.

Set on a picturesque 22 hectare vineyard in the Broke-Fordwich region, Nightingale Wines has a full range of red, white, sparkling and fortified wines. This 2017 Semillon from Nightingale Wineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Reserve range exemplifies why the Hunter has a reputation for producing some of the best Semillon in the world.

TASTING Light gold with luminous quartz tints and enticing aromas of jasmin, lemongrass and lanolin dominate the nose. The palate delivers vibrant grapefruit flavour zips in on the front of the palate and honeydew melon, sherbet and honey integrate on the middle palate. FOOD MATCH Perfect accompaniment to snapper fillets with orange and fennel sauce. CELLARING Drink now to 2029

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TASTING Subtle and restrained this Semillon is superb young, but with cellaring this wine will develop a honeyed, nutty and buttery mouth filling golden richness. FOOD MATCH A perfect accompaniment to oysters, fresh crab, clams, sashimi and cheese. CELLARING Drink now or cellar for up to 7 years

TOP DROPS MISTLETOE WINES 2017 Reserve Chardonnay Mistletoe Wines flagship Chardonnay is only made in years when the vintage and the grapes are deemed to be good enough to wear the Reserve label. The fruit for the 2017 Reserve Chardonnay were hand harvested from an old Hermitage Road vineyard. TASTING Complete barrel fermentation and maturation in new and one year old French oak puncheons, has created a typical Hunter Chardonnay. Flavours of white peach and melon are abound with a lovely balance between fruit, acid and oak. FOOD MATCH The perfect accompaniment for Chicken Fricasee CELLARING Drink now to 2027

EMMA'S COTTAGE VINEYARD 2017 Sparkles Emma’s Cottage Vineyard is a charming, boutique family owned winery in Lovedale with a reputation for producing premium quality wines. TASTING This delicious Chardonnay, Semillon, Pinot Noir sparkling wine. Is generous, lively and crisp showing citrus, apple and subtle stone fruit characters. The light yeast nuances and a rounded mouth feel make this a delightful wine for all occasions. FOOD MATCH Wonderful on its own, or perfectly paired with any light seafood dish (oysters, scallops and prawns), antipasto and mild cheeses. CELLARING Drink now or cellar for up to four years.

Dont Miss Mistletoe! 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.

771 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin PH 1800 055 080 OPEN 10AM - 6PM ISSUE #14 2018 | 61

TOP DROPS TAMBURLAINE ORGANIC WINES 2016 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

WYNWOOD ESTATE 2013 Hunter Valley Reserve Shiraz

Tamburlaine Organic Wines 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 2016 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon shone bright at wine shows in 2017 taking home several trophies including Best Organic Wine in Show at the NSW Wine Awards 2017.

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 Cabernet Sauvignon has a perfumed nose of cassis, black currants and currant leaf. It also has delicate cedar and vanilla aromas from oak ageing. On the palate, there is deep blackcurrant characters with subtle hints of mint chocolate. CELLARING Drink now or be rewarded for cellaring for 8+ years.

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 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

62 | ISSUE #14 2018

TOP DROPS ERNEST HILL WINES 2016 CEO Cabernet Sauvignon

GARTELMANN WINES 2014 Wilhelm Shiraz

Ernest Hill Wines’ 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.

A softer style of Hunter Valley Shiraz, Gartelmann Wines 2014 Wilhelm Shiraz has been made from fruit from the Broke area. The Lower Hunter 2014 vintage is regarded as one of the best for reds.

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 Oak maturation for 16 months has delivered a medium bodied, soft wine with notes of vanilla, tobacco, dried spice and a fine tannin structure. On the nose, there is a bouquet of cedar, liquorice, cinnamon and sweet smoky berries.

FOOD MATCH A perfect accompaniment to your next roast meat and poultry feast. CELLARING Drink now or be rewarded for cellaring to 2024

FOOD MATCH BBQ lamb, fried haloumi with pesto CELLARING A young hidden gem! Drink now, great drinking from 2019 or cellar to 2022

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 • Contemporary Muscat Liqueur • A Range of Sweet Wines Open 7 days 10am - 4pm www.kelmanvineyard.com.au 2 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin • Phone 4991 5456 ISSUE #14 2018 | 63

Not all Wine Glasses are

EQUAL There are many reasons why wine glasses come in different shapes and sizes and it is important to understand the characteristics of some basic wine types and the way we taste. Apparently, wines have needs too and all good wine glasses are shaped in a way that will direct the wine to that part of the mouth where its flavour can be most appreciated. Every wine glass will have a slightly different shape, depending on the type of wine that particular glass is to be used for, but it is the bowl of the glass that serves the most important purpose and it is here you will find most of the variation in wine glasses. In all types of wine glasses, both red and white, the bowl must be large enough to swirl your wine, opening it up to more air and allowing its aromas to be released. Because sparkling wines are carbonated, sparkling wine glasses (or flutes) are tall and thin and designed to encourage carbonated bubbles to remain active in the glass. If sparkling wine was to be served in a shorter, fatter wine glass, it will be exposed to air more quickly, causing the sparkling wine to go flat. And where would the fun be then? White wine glasses are tulip shaped and are typically medium in size, ranging from 250ml to 420 ml. The bowl of this glass is more U-shaped and upright with

64 | ISSUE #14 2018

the rim tapered inward to a slightly narrower opening directing the white wine's aroma to the nose, greatly enhancing the wine's flavour for the drinker. The complex aromas and flavours of red wine require a glass with a larger surface area to allow the wine to come into contact with more air. Because of this, red wine glasses are slightly larger than white wine glasses and hold up to 450ml. The bowl of red wine glasses also tend to be more full and round with a larger opening to allow the drinker to easily dip their nose into the glass to detect the aroma. A dessert wine glass should be smaller to more easily direct the wine to the back of the mouth where it is less overpowering. In addition, dessert wines generally have a higher alcohol content, making the small glass perfect for a smaller serving. Zafferano, a Venetian company directed by Federico de Majo, has been creating collections of tasting glasses and tableware in glass since 2001 and are used in many Michelin-starred restaurants throughout Europe and the USA and are now available in Australia. The introduction of their range of Esperienze wine glasses has brought a whole new experience to wine tasting thanks to the distinct ripples at the bottom of the wine glass. This unique design, a hallmark of these fine crystal wine glasses, increases the surface area in contact with the wine in order to enhance the process of oxygenation. The ripples also allow the full range of colours and reflections of the wine to be observed without having to tilt the glass. In the Hunter Valley, you can see a selection of their glasses at The Wine Glass Gallery in Pokolbin and The Hunter Jewellers in Singleton or at selected cellar doors. Why not see, smell and taste the difference for yourselfâ&#x20AC;Ś Take one of your best reds, and pour some into a standard tasting glass and also into an aged red wine glass like the Zafferano Esperienze 8000. Is there a difference in the nose and in the mouth? You be the judge.

Think Different.

DRINK ZAFFERANO! The wine glass used at Vinitaly since 2008 is now available in Australia. Taste the difference for yourself.

Priced from $32 a pair, gift boxed. Proud sponsor of A Little Bit of Italy in Broke Wine & Food Festival 2018.

Buy online or find your nearest stockist at www.casaecucina.com.au

ISSUE #14 2018 | 65

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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. 66

LOVEDALE

Allandale Winery Capercaillie Wines Dalwood Estate

DeBortoli Wines

Emmas Cottage Vineyard

Gartelmann Wines

Lovedale Smokehouse & Café

Lucy's Run Wines

Pierre’s Wines

Royal Federal Hotel

Stomp! Wines

Tatler Tapas Restaurant

Tatler Wines

The Deck Café

Thirsty Palette Wine

Wandin Winery & Café

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

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Take an Art Class – Wilderness Art Studio located at Thirsty Palette Wines offer a unique program of one or two-day programs for beginners interested in oil and acrylic painting. For more information visit www.thirstypalettewine.com

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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.

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LOVEDALE

ADINA VINEYARD 492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale PH 4930-7473 Adina Vineyard & Olive Grove If you love estate-grown wine and olives then a visit to our cellar door holds some delicious surprises. Experience wines with a difference; certified extra virgin olive oil and table-olives direct from our on-site mill, a gourmet range of dressings, sauces and tapenades as well as an olive-based range of cosmetics. Our boutique vineyard includes a wide variety of plantings. Try our authentic style Pinot Grigio and Sangiovese or our new Tempranillo, the traditional Hunter varieties of Sémillon, Shiraz and Chardonnay along with some Cabernet blends.

www.adinavineyard.com.au inquiries@adinavineyard.com.au CELLAR DOOR TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM - 5PM GROUPS Free tasting for groups of 6 or less (includes 10% off any wine purchase) WHITE WINES Sémillon, Pinot Gris/ Grigio, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Botrytis Sémillon RED WINES Reserve Shiraz, Cabernet blends, Sangiovese, Tempranillo SPARKLING Moscato, Prosecco, Rosé, Traditional Method Sparkling Chardonnay/Pinot Noir FORTIFIED Muscat WINEMAKER Dan Binet

ALLANDALE WINERY 132 Lovedale Road, Lovedale PH 4990 4526 With over 40 years of winemaking, Allandale Winery boasts a wellestablished portfolio of distinguished boutique wines with a range to suit all tastes. Whether you are an accomplished wine lover or just starting out, Allandale’s friendly cellar door staff will be able to help you find wines that you will adore. Tastings are held in the winery amongst modern winemaking equipment, with a breathtaking view over the valley floor to the Brokenback Mountain Range. Allandale’s cellar door is located in Lovedale, just around the corner from the Visitor’s Information Centre. A visit to Allandale Winery is a must for anyone staying in the Hunter Valley. All of Allandale’s wines are created in the on-site winery. Classic Hunter Valley varieties produced include Allandale’s multi award-winning Semillon, the illustrious Chardonnay and the signature ‘Matthew’ Shiraz. Allandale also specialises in regional styles such as Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon and more.

LOVEDALE

www.allandalewinery.com.au wines@allandalewinery.com.au OPENING HOURS Mon to Sat 9AM - 5PM Sun 10AM - 5PM Wine tastings available 7 days a week (closed Christmas Day) GROUPS Welcome. Bookings essential forgroups of 10 or more and attract a $5 charge p/p refundable on purchase of any wine WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Verdelho RED WINES Shiraz, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir SPARKLING Sparkling Gewürztraminer WINEMAKERS Bill Sneddon & Alex Woods PRICE RANGE From $20 - $60/bottle

MAP REF: H4

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, Gewϋrztraminer, Riesling, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc RED WINES Rosé, Chambourcin, Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Blend, Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Durif SPARKLING Chardonnay, Moscato, Chambourcin FORTIFIED WINES Vintage Fortiﬁed Shiraz SPECIALTIES Ghillie Shiraz, Clan Cabernet Blend, Creel Semillon, Cuillin Chardonnay, Ceilidh Shiraz AWARDS To date - 30 Trophies, 90 Gold, 198 Silver, 515 Bronze medals. Numerous Tourism Awards. PRICE RANGE From $10 - $95/bottle MAP REF: I4

‘Make this your destination’ This is one of the Hunter Valley’s favourite Cellar Doors. Discover 18 acclaimed wines, relax on the deck or enjoy a meal at the Deck Café. 701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale NSW | Ph: 02 4930 7113 | gartelmann.com.au

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 boutique vineyard with wines produced from our carefully nurtured 30-year-old vines. Explore Wilderness Road and ﬁnd the red truck at our gate. Hidden behind the vines is the cellar door, garden and cottages. Discover the delights of handpicked single estate premium wines. Enjoy a personal, friendly and informative tasting of the lovely wines made for us by renowned Hunter Valley winemakers. And whilst you are here view the original art by many local artists in our gallery – you many ﬁnd that perfect piece, or book a stay in one of our cottages for your next visit to the Hunter Valley.

GARTELMANN WINES

www.emmascottage.com.au info@emmascottage.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Thursday & Friday 12pm to 5pm Saturday 10am to 5pm Sunday 10am to 4pm *Check our Facebook page for other opening times GROUPS Small groups under 8 people no charge. We recommend booking for larger groups WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Franc Merlot, Pinot Noir SPARKLING Chardonnay Pinot Noir & Cabernet franc Merlot FORTIFIED WINES Liqueur Chardonnay, Liqueur Shiraz WINEMAKER David Hook & Damien Stevens PRICE RANGE From $24 per bottle MAP REF: E3

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

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 Welcome to Lucy’s Run – we’re a boutique vineyard producing award-winning wines: Shiraz (2 trophies, count ’em), Merlot and Verdelho, including our luscious Sweet Sophie. We’re also the home of Woof Woof wines, created to support PetRescue. Owner operated, we add a splash of fun to everything we do, so drop in to our cellar shed (yes, shed!) to enjoy our wines, along with our extra-virgin olive oil, caramelised balsamic vinegar and hand-made spice blends.

www.lucysrunwines.com.au lucysrunwines@hotmail.com OPENING HOURS Fri, Sat, Sun & (most) public holidays 10AM – 5PM. Mon – Thurs by appointment. Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Year’s Day GROUPS Welcome. Bookings essential PRICE RANGE From $16 - $70/bottle WINEMAKERS David Hook & Mike de Iuliis

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. 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.

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

MAP REF: A2 LOVEDALE

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

STOMP! WINES 504 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale PH 0409 774 280 Join us in our relaxed, friendly cellar to share the tastes, sights and people that make our stomping ground unique. Our winemakers will guide your tasting of our highly awarded, contemporary brands - stomp! and Pssst ‘n’ Broke. We’ll share knowledge, passion and our handson approach to crafting stylish, fresh, fruit driven wines.

www.stompwine.com.au meredith@stompwine.com.au OPENING HOURS Thursday - Monday 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Welcome

MAP REF: E2

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

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 Wed, Thurs & Sun 10AM - 4PM, Fri & Sat 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, Frizzante Pinot Chardonnay SPECIALTIES Frizzante Sparkling Semillon, Nigel’s Semillon, Archie’s Shiraz, McLaren Vale Shiraz, Redgiment Shiraz WINEMAKER Daniel Binet PRICE RANGE From $20 - $90/bottle

MAP REF: F4 LOVEDALE

THIRSTY PALETTE WINE 247 Wilderness Road, Lovedale PH 0400-356-867 www.thirstypalettewine.com enquiries@thirstypalettewine.com OPENING HOURS Sat & Sun 10AM - 5PM Mon - Fri by appointment only Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Welcome. For groups of 8 or more, $5 per person redeemable upon purchase of wine

Come along and discover a family-owned and run boutique cellar door and art gallery in the heart of the Hunter – Lovedale! Drink quality boutique wines made from our hand-picked vineyard fruits and enjoy gorgeous landscape views while tasting. Cellar door open Saturday & Sunday 10am to 5pm. To book call Andrew on 0400 356 867 Home to Wilderness Art Studio, oﬀering art classes for all skill levels - With a glass of wine in one hand and a paintbrush in the other, create a masterpiece to take home and show your proud Mum! For more information or to book an art class contact Jacquie on 0417 009 912. There are also oil paintings on display in the cellar door and handmade crafts for sale.

ACCOMMODATION Claremont Cottage - Book through Hunter Valley Stays WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Oﬀ-Dry Semillon RED WINES Shiraz, Moscato SPARKLING Sparkling Moscato, Méthode Traditionnelle Demi-Sec Chardonnay WINEMAKERS Adrian Sheridan and Dan Binet PRICE RANGE From $23 - $38/bottle

MAP REF: E4

WANDIN 12 Wilderness Road, Lovedale PH 4930-9888 Embark on a sensory journey with the new flavours of Wandin. Our new wines and beautiful cuisine are bursting with an abundance of flavour, fragrance and colour.

www.wandin.com.au info@wandin.com.au OPENING HOURS Open 7 days (excluding public holidays). Cellar Door from 10AM daily, Café from 8AM Wed - Sun GROUPS Welcome. 2018 Vintage released from March onwards. MAP REF: D5

Visit Adina Vineyard to try their range of estate-grown olives and olive products

LOVEDALE

Great wine deserves a great glass.

Wine Glass Gallery 100â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of Bohemia Crystal and colourful wine glasses for your Hunter Wines. Also, a great selection of Champagne, Whiskey, Brandy and Shot glasses all sold singly or in sets. Beautiful Wedding, Anniversary or Birthday Gifts. Plus, HV souvenir wine glasses. Be amazed by the selection of colourful glass platters, etc. Over 3,000 gifts/homewares - be assured of friendly service.

Shop 3, Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village Phone 4998 6888 Open 7 Days ISSUE #14 2018 | 75

underside of the cork or at the bottom of the bottle is excess potassium bitartrate that has crystallised. Many winemakers choose not to filter out these during the winemaking process as they believe it detracts from the flavour and nuance of the wine. The crystals have no taste. Sediments, on the other hand, are solids left over from the winemaking process that are usually very bitter and can be removed through decanting the wine before consumption or through filtration. SMELL Move your glass in small circles to swirl the wine and release aromas. After several seconds of swirling, hold the glass up to your nose and inhale – taking in the full range of the wine’s bouquet of aromas. The purpose of smelling wine before tasting is to give you a preview of what is to come when sipping – smell is an integral part of tasting as it is more precise and acute. Common aromas you may notice are floral, citrus, and tropical fruit for white wines, or berry, dried fruit, and spice for red wines. TASTE

SNIFF, SIP & SWIRL

How to Taste

WINE

Not a expert wine taster yet but you would like to be one day? This five-step wine tasting process is a helpful tool for understanding your favourite wines and enjoying each aspect of the wine tasting experience. LOOK Pick up the glass by the stem to give yourself a clear view of the wine. Hold the glass up to white light, or against a white background such as tablecloth or napkin and notice the depth of colour. The intensity of the colour is sometimes a signal of wine with a heavier body. White wines tend to appear amber, yellow or gold as it ages, whereas reds can be inky purple, brick red, or many shades in between. Also, take notice if the wine is clear or if there is crystals or sediment present in the wine. Crystals that appear on the

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Take an ample sip of wine, and swirl it in your mouth for a moment. With the wine still in your mouth, take in a bit of air and let it roll over your tongue, swishing it around to experience the texture and body of the wine.You may observe some of the same fruit, floral or spice flavours that you noticed while smelling the wine.You may also notice some of the five tastes, such as sweetness on the tip of your tongue, sour from the acidity of the wine, or slight bitterness from the tannins. TOUCH The “weight” or “body” of wine can be described as light, medium, or full. Whites such as Pinot Grigio are considered light-bodied, while reds such as Cabernet are usually medium to full-bodied. Take a sip of wine and focus on how it feels in your mouth. For example, Pinot Grigio will likely feel very light, while Chardonnay will often have a somewhat “rounder” mouth-feel due to its fuller body. Note the lingering impression that remains in your mouth after you swallow the wine – this is called the “finish.” ASSESS What is your overall impression? Did you like the wine? Assess all previous steps by taking into consideration the look, smell, taste and touch of the wine and how they may or may not all work together. An outstanding wine will have balance among all these elements, and each aspect of the wine will be well-integrated. Also assess the finish – notice if the aftertaste in your mouth is pleasant, or whether it lingers with you for a while.

The

BEN EAN Experience

WORDS Michelle Meehan

A trip to the Hunter Valley usually means sampling the best of the region’s fine wine, fabulous food and fresh gourmet produce. But those looking for all three under the one roof should head out to McDonalds Road, Pokolbin, to check out the revitalised Ben Ean estate. Historically known as the home of Lindeman’s in the Hunter Valley, the winery and vineyard were sold by Treasury Wine Estates (TWE) last year to local industry stalwarts Colin Peterson and Brian McGuigan, who have reopened the venue under the banner of Ben Ean.

than 12 months, with locals and visitors alike flocking back to the Pokolbin venue to indulge in its comprehensive offering of food, wine and produce. A trip to Ben Ean is certainly an experience to be savoured, with an impressive selection of premium wines, including many of the old favourites from its Lindeman’s days, available from its spacious cellar door. TWE retains ownership of the Lindeman’s brand, however, the company has allowed Ben Ean to continue selling wine from their extensive portfolio, ensuring labels such as the prestigious Penfolds range maintain a presence in the Hunter Valley.

As part of their $1.5 million refurbishment of the site, the cellar door, restaurant, function centre and winery areas have all been renovated, while a new multi-function outdoor seating area, complete with a retractable roof, is currently being constructed.

The cellar door offers a variety of wine tasting packages such as the $10 Regional Highlights selection, which features eight Hunter wines including the 2015 Pinot Noir from Lisa McGuigan Wines, Lindeman’s 2013 Ben Ean Shiraz Bin 1300, Max’s Chardonnay from Penfolds and the Hunter Valley Verdelho from Savannah Estate.

The work has given Ben Ean estate a whole new lease on life after being shut by its former owners for more

There’s also the $15 Big Red Tasting, the $5 Simple Pleasures Tasting and the $5 Sweet Delights Tasting,

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while those looking to take home a bottle or two of their favourites will have plenty to choose from, including a selection of Australia’s most celebrated red wine, the Penfolds Grange.

The wood-fired oven is also being put to plenty of use for what has become one of Baumé’s most popular offerings – their ever-changing selection of gourmet pizzas.

Of course, premium quality wines aren’t the only thing on the tasting menu at Ben Ean.

Using in-house pizza dough that has been left to prove for three days to produce a lighter feel, the pizzas are hand rolled and finished with one of three daily selections of toppings before being baked in the woodfired oven for a truly authentic flavour.

The estate recently welcomed two new retail outlets into the first floor of their winery complex, with fresh gourmet produce now on offer from Scone’s Hunter Belle Dairy Company and Muswellbrook’s Hunter Valley Olive Company. A visit to the Hunter Belle Cheese Room is an indulgent experience, with handmade cheese, decadent fudge and their famous assortment of gelato flavours sure to tempt anyone with a sweet tooth, as well as those with a preference for a savoury snack. Savoury lovers will also find plenty of options to please at Hunter Valley Olive Company’s tasting room, with a range of gourmet products made from the finest olives, as well as other quality produce, grown and sourced in the Hunter Valley. Visitors with an appetite for something a little more substantial can round off their tasting trip with lunch or dinner at Baumé, Ben Ean’s on-site café, restaurant and bar.

But make sure you leave some room for the sumptuous array of desserts on offer, with diners hard-pressed to choose between the rich Valrhona chocolate mousse with poached spiced oranges and vanilla double cream, and the baked Hunter Belle brie with honey and thyme, served with croutons, grapes pecans and pear, among other decadent selections. Wine connoisseurs and food lovers aren’t the only ones falling head over heels for everything Ben Ean has to offer, with the Pokolbin venue also popular among brides-to-be looking for a wedding among the vines. Ben Ean offers the ideal venue for a glamorous wine country wedding reception, with picture-perfect grounds and a stylish and versatile function room located above the restaurant, which can cater for around 350 guests.

Using only the best locally-sourced ingredients, Baumé has created a casual family-style dining experience with a reputation for excellent value. Diners can choose from a selection of small tasting plates to tempt the taste-buds before enjoying one or more of the restaurant’s shared signature dishes, which are designed to be placed in the middle of the table and accompanied by a selection from their range of delicious sides and salads. The mouth-watering mains include everything from a slow-roasted Italian lamb shoulder marinated in garlic, cabernet and rosemary, to a whole baked lemon sole, cooked in the wood-fired oven and served with a caper, parsley and green olive salsa.

ISSUE #14 2018 | 79

MOUNT VIEW, CESSNOCK & NULKABA WINE & DINE TRAIL

NEW EN GLAND

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Wilderness Road

Deasys Road Wilderness Road

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Thompsons Rd

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Green Lane

MCDONALDS ROAD

MITAGE RO HER AD

BROKE FORDWICH

Palmers Lane

Mears La n e Bernard Road

Palmers Lane

LOVEDALE ROAD

UNTRY DRIVE CO

Putty Road

Brickmans Lane

Gillards Road

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De Beyers Road

Campbells Lane

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McCarthy Road

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De Beyers Road

Ironbark Lane

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Racecourse Lne

Fleming st

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O ’Connors Road

DRIVE NTRY COU NE WI

O’Connors Road

Kerlew Street

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MOUNT VIEW, CESSNOCK AND NULKABA

Coulson Road

MCDONALDS ROAD

HERMITAGE ROAD

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Sandy Creek Road

Al-Oi Thai Restaurant

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B la c kburn

Bistro Molines

THINGS TO SEE & DO

TE R

NAME

Go wild at Hunter Valley Zoo – Feed the animals, pat a wombat, cuddle up to a koala, touch a reptile and see the range of other animals including American alligators, Tasmanian devils, exotic birds, meerkats and more. Don’t forget to check out the newest arrivals, White Lions – Kovu and Nala!

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WOLLOMBI

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

WINE C OUNTRY DRIV E

Squire Cl os e

E ITAG RM HE O ld

WHERE AM I?

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.

ield nsf Ma

TUCKERS LANE

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.

HI G

on ls Ne

De Beyers Road

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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<15KM

Briar Ridge Vineyard

Hunter Beer Co

Kelman Vineyard

MAP

Mount View Estate

Petersons 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.

B MARRO

WBON

E RD

Kelman Vineyard

MOU

NT V

IEW

Savannah Estate

Petersons Wines

MOUNT VIEW RD

Briar Ridge Vineyard

VINCEN

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Al-Oi Thai

Mount View Estate

Bistro Molines

WOLLOMBI RD

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

I 1

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 Sunday to Thursday 4.30PM-9.30PM Friday to Saturday 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 each year from 2010 to 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 GROUPS Welcome by appointment WINERY TOURS Commencing in March 2018 WHITE WINES Semillon, Fumé, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Moscato, Trebbiano, Fiano RED WINES Rosé, Merlot, Tempranillo, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Red Blends SPARKLING Chardonnay Pinot Noir, Blanc de Blancs FORTIFIED WINES Liqueur Muscat, Late Harvest Gewϋrztraminer

Mount View might be a little out of town, but as any visitor to Briar Ridge Wines will tell you, it’s well worth the trip. With a rich blend of Hunter classics and modern marvels to discover. This is our world. This is our wine. And you’ll find it off the beaten track.

AWARDS James Halliday 5-star rating. WINEMAKER Gwyn Olsen PRICE RANGE From $23 - $60/bottle MAP REF: F3

MOUNT VIEW, CESSNOCK AND NULKABA

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 Sparkling Chardonnay, Semillon, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Tempranillo, Shiraz and RosÃ© SWEET WINES Moscato, Chardonnay and Shiraz LIQUEUR Contemporary Light Muscat 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 RED WINES Shiraz, 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 www.petersonswines.com.au sales@petersonswines.com.au

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.

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

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.

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.

BRING IN THIS AD TO RECEIVE A FREE PICCOLO BOTTLE WITH ANY BOTTLE PURCHASE (Limit 1 per person)

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 Gary Reed PRICE RANGE From $19.50 - $55 per bottle

MAP REF: D5

MOUNT VIEW, CESSNOCK AND NULKABA

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

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 medium-bodied wines with powerful aromas and with moderate to high natural acidity. The characteristic flavours are cherries, tomatoes, herbs, spices and tealike flavours. Australian Sangiovese wines tend to be a little more fruity, with riper flavours and higher alcohol. ISSUE #14 2018 | 85

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BROKE FORDWICH Ch ar lto

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.

86 86 BROKE BROKEFORDWICH FORDWICH

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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Nightingale Wines & Restaurant

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Embrace Nature – Visit Aboriginal cultural heritage sites at Yengo National Park – part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area.Yengo also has spectacular views!

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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.

Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard

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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

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TO MAP 6 WOLLOMBI WINE & FOOD TRAIL

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. Call to book Hunter Riverpines Cottage and special events. 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

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

MAP REF: B2 BROKE FORDWICH

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.

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

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.

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 ﬂavours 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 5PM RESTAURANT Breakfast Sat & Sun 8.30AM - 11AM Lunch Thurs - Sun 12PM - 3PM Dinner Fri & Sat from 6PM GROUPS Welcome with booking WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay RED WINES Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz SPARKLING Sparkling White, Sparkling 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 – 2006 Shiraz WINEMAKER Damien Stevens PRICE RANGE From $25 - $55/bottle MAP REF: B2 WINERY TOURS

Krinklewood has a beautiful outdoor courtyard.

BROKE FORDWICH

Aussies are Begging for

BURGERS

WORDS Carla Elkin

If you’re eating a lot of burgers lately, you’re not alone. A new study has found that burgers are becoming more and more popular worldwide. The French culinary scene is renowned for producing some of the world’s most delicious and glamorous dishes, but would you believe me if I told you that burgers are now one of France’s most served foods? Statistics show that around 75 percent of food establishments in France now have at least one burger on their menu, with the French consuming 1.19 billion burgers last year alone. But they aren’t the only ones in love with these tasty creations, with Australian’s now consuming almost three times as many burgers per capita as France! Australia is living and eating in the Burger Age. Mass produced or artisanal, a healthy burger or a towering indulgence that can terrify your cardiologist, we just cannot get enough of burgers. They have managed to fight off the rise of the fitness and wellness trend, which has recently embedded itself in Australian culinary culture and have continued to increase in popularity. But hasn’t Australia always loved burgers? Well, yes, burgers have been popular in Australia for some time.

Who hasn’t eaten a burger from the local fish and chip shop, or fast food chains such as Hungry Jacks or McDonald’s? But in the last five years, there has been a sharp and rapid rise in the popularity of burger joints in Australia. Many believe this shift in burger culture began when hatted Melbourne restaurant Huxtable, led by Daniel Wilson, opened Huxtaburger in Melbourne – offering reasonably priced burgers in a distinctly Americanstyle, using high-quality ingredients and focusing on keeping the food as uncomplicated as possible. So why do Australians love burgers? We love to copy and follow our American friends. Our culture looks to the US culture for direction. As a majority of our TV and film content is US based, we are constantly subject to their ways of life, so it is no surprise that their love of burgers has begun to trickle over. Burgers are big business in the US. Celebrated and late American food writer Josh Ozersky wrote a book on the hamburger, titled The Hamburger: A History. In it, he argues that the hamburger is an “irrepressible economic and cultural force”. Its history, Mr Ozersky writes, is “entwined” with the history of American business and consumerism. ► ISSUE #14 2018 | 89

(Continued) It is also hard to deny the distinct (and delicious) taste of American-style burgers. They are overtly greasy, amazingly meaty and salty but also sweet (thanks to mustard or relish and those brioche buns).You have just a traditional American cheeseburger with a meat patty and cheese or add lettuce, tomato, pickles and some sauce for extra deliciousness. But it isn’t just our infatuation with America that has prompted Australia’s love affair with burgers. For many years a burger was just something you got at McDonald’s or Hungry Jacks, where the price was low, the quality lacklustre but you knew what you were going to get. Diners are becoming more educated about nutrition than they were ten years ago and now want to eat healthier, but this hasn’t diminished their love of burgers. Instead, it has led consumers away from fast food chains, towards gourmet burgers joints like Grill’d, whose burgers contain fresh and unprocessed ingredients. With new gourmet burger restaurants opening every week and burgers continuing to pop up on menu around the country, it is safe to say Australians burger consumption is not going to slow down any time soon. And while American southern-style BBQ is tipped to be the next big food trend to hit our restaurants, we are predicting that the burger is well and truly here to stay… Here are a few of our favourite burgers available throughout the Hunter Valley: • Grilled Chicken Burger from The Deck Café Grilled chicken on a brioche bun with bacon, avocado and brie served with crispy chips • Matty’s Marvellous Cheesy Beef Burger from Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen Cheesy beef burger with confit beetroot, organic leaves, aioli and OMG potatoes 90 | ISSUE #14 2018

• Fried Panko Chicken & Chorizo Burger from Blaxland Inn Fried Panko Chicken & Chorizo Burger with pickled onion, Swiss cheese and aioli on a brioche roll served with beer battered chips • Black Angus Cheese Burger from Matilda Bay Brewhouse Black Angus cheese burger with Jack cheese, Fat Yak onion jam, house pickles and spiced tomato sauce • BBQ Grain fed Beef Burger from Hunter’s Quarter’s Bar Menu BBQ Grain fed beef burger with gruyere cheese, caramelised onions and crisp pancetta • BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders from Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen Toasted Brioche rolls with slaw, green tomato chutney and 16hr slow cook BBQ pulled pork served with beer battered fries • Seattle Sandwich from The Brickworks Brasserie Grilled chicken breast, bacon, BBQ sauce, cheddar cheese on a Turkish roll with chips and aioli • Smokehouse Burger from Lovedale Smokehouse & Café Pure beef patty, double smoked bacon, smoked cheddar, sautéed onions, lettuce, tomato, beetroot, chipotle aioli, house made barbecue sauce and Cajun seasoned beer battered fries

Featuring the best winemakers of the Wollombi Valley Wine Trail, and Wollombi Tavern – home of the renowned Dr Jurds Jungle Juice. Stonehurst Wines • Noyce Brothers Wollombi Village Vineyard • Wollombi Tavern Enjoy a visit to historic Wollombi Village and surrounding cafés, shops and vineyards.

www.wollombiwinetrail.com.au

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WOLLOMBI WINE & DINE TRAIL

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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. 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.

THINGS TO SEE & DO

Stonehurst Cedar Creek

Wollombi Tavern/ Route 33 Café

Wollombi Village Vineyard

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

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Noyce Brothers Wines

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Wollombi Village Markets – Held on the second Sunday of each month at the historic Wollombi Village. Browse through a selection of stalls offering handcrafted goods and gifts, as well as sample, a range of fresh produce including cheese, bread, wines and jams.Visit www.wollombimarket.com.au for more information.

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Sculpture in the Vineyards An annual festival of art and culture held across boutique vineyards and selected locations throughout Wollombi each November.Visit www.sculptureinthevineyards.com.au for more information.

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NOYCE BROTHERS 2884 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi PH 4998-3483 www.noycebros.com.au sales@noycebros.com.au

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.

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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The

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by everyone from two of the founding fathers of America, George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, to English mathematician Sir Isaac Newton - although his interactions with apples produced something far more famous than just a homemade batch of cider…

WORDS Michelle Meehan

Fast forward several centuries and cider is still being produced around the world in vast quantities, including right here in the Hunter.

The Hunter is renowned for its premium wine and is increasingly becoming known for the business of brewing beer.

Among those bottling the delicious drop is one of the oldest working wineries in the Valley – Oakvale Wines.

But a tasting tour of the region wouldn’t be complete without indulging in a glass or two of what is now the fastest growing segment of the alcoholic beverage market – cider.

Renowned winemaker James Becker may be better known for the iconic Hunter wines he produces at his family’s Pokolbin vineyard, but for the past four years, he has also been responsible for crafting the delightfully sweet Oakvale Apple Cider.

Consumption of the fermented apple drink has jumped 600 percent in the past decade according to the latest Roy Morgan Research, with more than 2.3 million Australian adults partaking in a glass or two of cider at least once during an average four-week period in 2016. Of course, cider consumption is far from a new phenomenon. A popular drink throughout history, references to it date back as far as Julius Caesar’s Roman Empire and possibly even earlier. It was reportedly used as a form of currency to pay farm workers in Medieval England and has been made 94 | ISSUE #14 2018

Introduced as a trial following a particularly poor grape harvest in 2012, the cider has become a staple in the Oakvale portfolio with its easily approachable characteristics that appeal to cider lovers and novices alike. “We’ve been making it since 2012 when there was a particularly difficult vintage, and we had some empty tank space,” James said. “We had been talking about it for some time, and it seemed like a good opportunity to do it, and the

response has been really good - it was supposed to be a one-off, and four years later we’re still doing it,” he said. “I think ours is pretty approachable for most people, it’s a fresher style that’s not too sweet and has a good spritz about it – the mix of the sweetness and acidity of the apples as well as their characteristics give our cider an excellent taste, and that’s what we’re going for.”

Promoted as Australia’s original craft brewery, the Matilda Bay Brewing Company is known for its refreshing and eclectically-named speciality ales, which they have been producing since setting up in Fremantle in the mid-80s. But the brewers of Fat Yak, Beez Neez and Dogbolter added a fruity addition to their line-up in 2011 when the first batch of Dirty Granny matured apple cider was bottled.

James said their cider is made using three varieties of apples – Jonathan, Pink Lady and Gala – which are all hand crushed on site before the fermentation process begins.

A deep, dark, russet-coloured cider, it features a full, rich flavour combined with a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity and the crisp bite of whole apples.

Like all of Oakvale’s products, the Apple Cider is available exclusively through their cellar door, which is located at 1596 Broke Road, Pokolbin.

While Matilda Bay’s brewing facility is located in Tasmania, Hunter fans of the Dirty Granny drop can enjoy a glass or two direct from the Matilda Bay Brewhouse Hunter Valley, located at Hunter Valley Resort at Pokolbin.

Another well-known Hunter vineyard branching out into the world of cider is Lambloch Estate. Also located on Broke Road at Pokolbin, the 20-acre property is home to a vineyard originally planted in the 1950s, which predominantly grows Shiraz and Semillon grapes. However, Lambloch has now also branched out to produce two different varieties of alcoholic cider under the Pokolbin Cider House label. The Classic Draught Cider blends Granny Smith, Pink Lady, Red Delicious and Gala apples to create a fruity but crisp acid juice, which when fermented produces a mouth-coating depth of flavour. A bonanza of berries is added to the mix of Lambloch’s Raspberry and Cranberry Cider, with the sweet and fruity flavours injected by the raspberry juice tempered by the acid tartness of the cranberries to create a structured and refreshing concoction. But Hunter vineyards aren’t the only ones to have joined the cider revolution, with fans of the fermented apple drink also being catered for by some of the region’s breweries.

Just a little further along Hermitage Road, cider drinkers can expand their tasting tour with a visit to the Ironbark Hill Brewhouse – the ultimate destination for food, wine, beer and cider. Located at Peter Drayton Wines, Ironbark Hill Brewhouse produces two ciders – apple and pear. Both ciders are produced on-site at the brewery, and are available on tap, and in limited release in bottles. Made from freshly crushed apples sourced from regional NSW, the apple cider is fruity and slightly sweet with a crisp clean finish. The slightly higher in alcohol, pear cider has a crisp light fruity pear flavour with delicate acidity and a slightly dry spritzy finish. Both delicious to the last drop. Venture beyond the bounds of Pokolbin and taste the cider sensations offered by the Lovedale Brewery – located at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley and created by its Sydney-based sister site, the Sydney Brewery, which specialises in producing its award-winning Sydney Cider. Made from freshly crushed apples fermented with champagne yeast, the lightly carbonated cider has a crisp, clean finish that helped it take home a title from the Australian Cider Awards, as well as the 2015 Sydney Royal Beer & Cider Show. But if your thirst for cider has still not been quenched, make sure you head back to the Garden Cellars at the Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, which stocks more than 60 different ciders from across Australia and around the world including the range of apple and pear ciders made by the Tilse family in the Upper Hunter.

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

DALWOOD ESTATE There is something incredibly romantic about vineyards that makes being married among the vines like a fairytale. Dalwood Estate is the Queen of Hunter Valley wedding venues, with undulating vineyards resting along the banks of the Hunter River, waiting to entertain guests and impress with her grace and beauty. The expansive function centre and cellar door was built in 1904 from local sandstone hand-cut by convicts. It looks out over lush vineyards that make a stunning backdrop for a perfect wedding. The function centre features a number of rooms that can be styled for small or large events, all accessible from a large, professional kitchen. With flourishing vines, historic buildings, open green fields and gently flowing river, the vineyard offers a spectacular backdrop for your wedding photography. Dalwood has a dedicated event planner who can help bring your vision to life, perfecting even the most minor detail. Alongside a talented team of industry experts, your vision for your perfect day will come to life at Dalwood. Dalwood Estate (formerly known as Wyndham Estate) has recently re-opened under its original name, after a three year hiatus. The vineyard has been meticulously groomed to showcase the glorious natural beauty of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest, riverfront vineyard. Come and visit us at Dalwood and let the vineyard take your breath away. Meet our team and plan how we can help you make amazing memories for your next event. 700 Dalwood Road, Dalwood P: 0448 442 851 E: events@dalwoodestate.com.au W: www.dalwoodestate.com.au

358 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin | www.tamburlaine.com.au | PH 4998 4217 98

WEDDINGS, FEASTS AND FUNCTIONS

NANNA KERR’S KITCHEN At Nan’s we welcome couples of any persuasion with groups of up to 100 guests to use our stunning countryside venue as the place to host your wedding or commitment ceremony in 2017. If you are planning a wedding in the Hunter Valley then Nanna Kerr’s Kitchen could be the answer if you are looking for… • Exclusive use of the entire site for the whole day • All-inclusive no hidden extras packages • Some of the best mountain and vineyard views in the Hunter at a relaxed country-chic venue • Organic Food and Wine throughout the day • Registered ACON Safe Place 16 Pokolbin Mountains Road, Pokolbin PH 0427679887 E jimmy@nannakerrskitchen.com.au www.nannakerrskitchen.com.au

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

RIDGEVIEW WINES & RESTAURANT

THE CONVENT HUNTER VALLEY

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.

At The Convent Hunter Valley we know that every couple have their own unique idea of how your wedding day will be. With this is mind we offer bespoke planning services to bring your vision to life.

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 100 WEDDINGS, FEASTS AND FUNCTIONS

Our delightful events staff are perfectly placed to become your dream support team as you draw closer to your big day, and have true depth of knowledge in both The Convent and the local Hunter Valley region. The Convent offers a broad range of reception and ceremony venues ranging from rustic outdoor settings, to the glamour of our Grand Marquee where you will be pampered by our service staff, and treated to our acclaimed cuisine. 88 Halls Road, Pokolbin, NSW 2320 PH 4998 4999 E reservations@convent.com.au www.convent.com.au

Estate grown, trophy winning wines. 100% Hunter grown grapes. 10 different varieties.

Alfresco dining overlooking picturesque vineyards. Mezedhes share plates with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences.

ph: (02) 6574 7332 www.ridgeview.com.au email: dine@ridgeview.com. au.

273 Sweetwater Road, Pokolbin

Weddings Amongst the Vines The charming colonial buildings, stunning landscaped grounds and sweeping verandahs of Calais Estate provide the perfect setting for your wedding. Catering for up to 250 guests, choose from a selection of modern-style menu dishes or create a personalised menu for your special day. To enquire, please email bookings@verandahrestaurant.com.au

(02) 4998 7231

www.verandahrestaurant.com.au

Located at Gartelmann Wines The Deck Café is a stylish restaurant-style café providing a diverse and delightful menu complimented by Gartelmann Wines and Piazza Doro Coﬀee. Open 7 days for Breakfast and Lunch. Mon - Fri: 8.30am - 3.30pm Sat & Sun: 8am - 3.30pm bookings@deckcafelovedale.com.au

(02) 4930 9007