Wine & Dine Hunter Valley | Issue 17 2021 by WCP MEDIA

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CELLAR DOORS RESTAURANTS AND CAFÉS TRAIL MAPS LOCAL PRODUCE CRAFT BEER AND SPIRITS WEDDINGS AND EVENTS

ISSUE #17 | 2021

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ISSUE #17 2021 | 3

Welcome TO ISSUE #17

Celebrated as Australia’s oldest and most visited wine region and with a pedigree dating back to the early 1800s, the Hunter Valley is considered the country’s premier food and wine destination and home to some of Australia’s most outstanding wines, winemakers, restaurants, chefs and local produce. With more Cellar Doors than any other wine region in Australia, the Hunter Valley is perhaps best known for its world-renowned varietals – Semillon and Shiraz – but a tasting here will also have you sipping a broad range of distinctive and innovative wines, from classic to newer varieties. We take our beer and spirits pretty seriously too, with a raft of new producers and distilleries opening up to give visitors a taste of local craft beers, ciders, gins, vodkas and liqueurs. Look out for the new speciality tasting trails in this issue. As well as producing some of the world’s best wines, Wine Country boasts a savvy and vibrant foodie culture. Delivering everything from delicious hatted restaurants to pub grub, fine dining in the vines to quaint cafes utilising the freshest of local produce, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Book a wine tasting, savour the menu from a diversity of restaurants and cafés or pick up some produce to take home. You’ll find something for literally every tastebud along any and all of the six Wine & Food Trail Maps in Wine & Dine Hunter Valley.

Enjoy! Visit www.wineanddinehuntervalley.com.au to find everything you need online, and to book on the go! EDITORS/PUBLISHERS Quentin & Di von Essen, Olivia Rodgers GRAPHIC DESIGN Jess Codrington FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION: +61 2 4943 2888 info@wcpmedia.com.au 297 Brunker Road, Adamstown NSW 2289 COVER IMAGE Bistro Molines dining experience, Mount View. Credit: Hugh Stewart; Destination NSW © Copyright 2021 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.

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Australia's

Must Visit

WINE REGION CONTENTS EVERY ISSUE 4 Editors Note 8 Quick Index 12 What’s On in the Hunter Valley 28 Hunter Valley Varietals – Whites 66 Top Drops 70 Hunter Valley Varietals – Reds 106 Sniff, Sip & Swirl – How to Taste Wine

FEATURES 29 Hunters Quarter – Chef Brian Duncan 54 Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort – Local Flavours

WEDDINGS, FEASTS & FUNCTIONS 87 What Wine Country Has to Offer

AREA WINE & FOOD TRAILS 16 Pokolbin North 30 Pokolbin South 56 Lovedale 72 Mount View & Nulkaba 78 Broke Fordwich 82 Wollombi

TASTING TRAILS 90 Beer & Cider Trail 92 Distilleries Trail

Discover Hunter Valley

94 Sparkling Wine Trail 96 Cheese & Olive Trail 98 Art & Wine Trail 100 Brekkie & Brunch Trail 102 Rosé Wine Trail 104 Stickies Trail

ISSUE #17 2021 | 5

DREAMERS WELCOME Discover an estate like no other in the Hunter region. Enjoy the serenity and elegance of beautiful lavender fields, explore the ever evolving oriental display garden and discover the natural secrets of the Hunter’s Dream culinary range. With award winning estate wines by master wine makers 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.

Hunter’s Dream is located at 149 Deasys Road. Monday-Saturday: 10am-5pm. Sunday: 11am-4pm P 02 4998 6509 E enquiries@huntersdream.com.au W www.huntersdream.com.au/cellar 6 | ISSUE #17 2021

HOW TO USE

LOCATE WHERE YOU ARE AND CHOOSE YOUR TRAIL... 1. Find your current trail area on the map to the right. 2. Use the index below to match the page number for your selected trail. 3. 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. 4. Drive carefully and enjoy!

WINE & DINE Where Am I?

Beer & Cider? See page 90

NEW

W DH

LAN

ENG

WIN E CO UNR TY

AREA WINE & FOOD TRAILS 16 Pokolbin North

72 Mount View & Nulkaba

But Wait There''s More...

BROKE RD

OMBI

92 Distillery Trail

98 Art & Wine Trail

104 Stickies Trail

SYMBOLS

NULKABA

MOUNT VIEW

96 Cheese & Olives Trail

102 Rosé Trail

MCDONALDS RD

94 Sparkling Trail

100 Brekkie & Brunch Trail

POKOLBIN SOUTH

WOLL

90 Beer & Cider Trail

BROKE RD

87 Feasts & Functions

WINE COUNRTY DR

82 Wollombi BROKE FORDWICH

LOVEDALE

POKOLBIN NORTH MCDONALDS RD

78 Broke Fordwich

LE RD

56 Lovedale

LOVEDA

HERMITAGE RD

30 Pokolbin South

WOLLOMBI

PICK UP YOUR FREE MAP

CESSNOCK RD

WOLLOMBI

A full size Wine & Dine map is available online and in print throughout Wine Country. www.huntervalleymap.com.au

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

Love Cheese and Olives? See page 96

Winery/Cellar Door

Disabled Access

Functions/ Events/ Weddings

Barista-Made Coffee

Restaurant/Café

Beer/Cider on Tap

Family Friendly

Cooking Classes

Providore/Gourmet Produce

On Site Gallery

Dog Friendly

Picnic Hampers

Accommodation

Guided Winery Tours

Free Wifi

Visit www.wineanddinehuntervalley.com.au to find everything you need online, and to book on the go! ISSUE #17 2021 | 7

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

492 Lovedale Road, Lovedale. PH 4930 7473

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Allandale Winery

132 Lovedale Road, Lovedale. PH 4990 4526

Mon–Sat 9AM–5PM; Sun 10AM–5PM

Black Creek Farm - Thélème Wines

803 Old North Road, Rothbury. PH 0410 491 572

Fri–Mon 10AM–4PM

Ben Ean

119 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin. PH 4993 3700

Mon–Sat 9AM–5PM; Sun 10AM–5PM

Briar Ridge

593 Mount View Road, Mount View. PH 4990 3670

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Calais Estate

151 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7654

7 Days, 10AM–5PM

De Bortoli Wines

532 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin. PH 4993 8800

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Drayton's Family Wines

555 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7513

Mon–Fri 8AM–5PM; Sat & Sun 10AM–5PM

Elbourne Wines

236 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 6996

By Appointment Only

Emma's Cottage Vineyard

438 Wilderness Road, Lovedale. PH 4998 7734

Fri 12PM–4PM; Sat 10AM–5PM; Sun 10AM–3PM

Ernest Hill Wines

307 Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba. PH 4991 4418

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Gartelmann Wines

701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale. PH 4930 7113

Mon–Fri 9AM–5PM; Sat 10AM– 5PM; Sun & Pub Hols 10AM–4PM

Greenway Wines

350 Wollombi Road, Broke. PH 0418 164 382

Fri–Sun 11AM–3PM (Sat 4PM)

Hope Estate

2213 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4993 3555 or 1800 777 444

Sun–Thurs 10AM–5PM; Fri & Sat 10AM–6PM

Hungerford Hill

2450 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7666

Sun–Thurs 10AM–5PM; Fri & Sat 10AM–6PM

Hunter's Dream

149 Deasys Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 6509

Mon–Sat 10AM–5PM; Sun 11AM–4PM

Iron Gate Estate

Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 6570

7 Days 10AM–4PM

Ivanhoe Wines

525 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7325

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Kelman Vineyard

2 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin. PH 4991 5456

Sat + Sun 10AM–4PM

Leogate Estate

1693 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7499

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Lucy's Run

1274 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale. PH 0409 994 030

Fri–Sun 10AM–5PM

M&J Becker Wines

Roche Estate, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Roads, Pokolbin. PH 0422 364 255

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Margan Winery & Restaurant

1238 Milbrodale Road, Broke. PH 6579 1317

7 Days 10AM–5PM

McLeish Estate

462 DeBeyers Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7754

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Meerea Park

Roche Estate, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Roads, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7474

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Mistletoe Winery

771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7770

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Moorebank Vineyard Estate

150 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7610

Wed–Mon 10AM–5PM

Mount Pleasant

401 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7505

Thurs–Mon 10AM–4PM

Noyce Brothers Wine

2884 Wollombi Road, Wollombi. PH 4998 3483

Mon & Thurs 10AM–2PM; Fri, Sat & Sun 10AM–4PM

Oakvale Wines

1596 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7088

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Peterson House

Cnr Broke Road & Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7881

7 Days 9AM–5PM

Petersons Wines – Mount View

552 Mount View Road, Mount View. PH 4990 1704

Mon–Sat 9AM–5PM; Sun 10AM–5PM

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Quick Index to Cellar Doors (P-Z) Petersons Wines – Pokolbin

2347 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7379

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Pierre's Wines

82 Elderslie Road, Branxton. PH 0417 433 193

Fri to Sun & Pub Hols 10AM–6PM; Mon to Thurs by Appointment

Pokolbin Estate

298 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7524

7 Days 9AM–5PM

Running Horse Wines

1133 Milbrodale Road, Broke. PH 0474 156 786

7 Days 10AM–6PM (Call Mon–Fri)

Saddler's Creek Wines

15 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin. PH 4991 1770

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Savannah Estate Wines

312 Mount View Road, Mount View. PH 4990 6326

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Stomp! Wines

504 Wilderness Road, Lovedale. PH 0409 774 280

Thurs–Mon 10AM–5PM

Stonehurst Cedar Creek

1840 Wollombi Road, Cedar Creek. PH 4998 1576

Mon–Thurs 11AM–3PM; Fri–Sun 10AM–5PM

Tamburlaine Organic Wines

358 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 4200

7 Days 9AM–5PM

Talits Estate

722 Milbrodale Road, Broke. PH 0472 500 662

Fri–Sun 10AM–5PM

Tatler Wines

477 Lovedale Road, Lovedale. PH 4930 9139

Wed, Thurs 11AM–4PM; Fri 11AM–5PM; Sat 10AM–5PM; Sun 10AM–4PM

Tempus Two

Roche Estate, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Roads, Pokolbin. PH 4993 3999

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Thomas Wines

28 Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7134

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Tintilla Estate

725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin. PH 6574 7093

7 Days 10.30AM–6PM

Wandin

12 Wilderness Road, Lovedale. PH 4930 9888

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Winmark Wines

189-229 Wollombi Road, Broke. PH 0417 100 824

Mon–Thurs 11AM–4PM; Fri–Sun 10AM–5PM

VAMP By Lisa McGuigan

2198 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7854

Thurs–Mon from 11AM; Tues & Wed by Appointment

Distilleries and Brewhouses (A-Z) Foghorn Brewery

Cnr Fleming St & Wine Country Dr, Nulkaba. PH 4058 4188

7 Days

Hope Brewery & Distillery

2213 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4993 3555 or 1800 777 444

Sun–Thurs 10AM–5PM; Fri & Sat 10AM–6PM

Hunter Distillery

1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 6737

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Millbrook Estate

1617 Mount View Road, Millfield. PH 0405 109 030

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Pokolbin Cider House

2342 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 6722

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Small Mouth Vodka

HVG Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 0492 031 862

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Sydney Brewery

Crowne Plaza, 430 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale. PH 4991 0947

Mon–Fri 10AM–Late; Sat & Sun 8AM–Late

Bars (A-Z) Brokenback Bar

Estate Tuscany, Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7288

7 Days

Goldfish Bar & Restaurant

Roche Estate, Cnr McDonalds & Broke Road's, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7671

7 Days

Great Northern Trading Post

3718 Great North Road, Laguna. PH 4998 8244

7 Days

Harrigan's Hunter Valley

2090 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 4300

7 Days

Wollombi Tavern

2994 Great North Road, Wollombi. PH 4998 3261

7 Days

The Lovedale Bar

Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, 430 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale. PH 4991 0947

7 Days

The Mighty Hunter Valley

Cnr Fleming Street & Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba. PH 4058 4155

7 Days ISSUE #17 2021 | 9

Quick Index to Cafés and Restaurants (A-R) Baumé Restaurant, Café Bar

Ben Ean, 119 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin. PH 4993 3705

Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Thurs–Mon

BelleVue Food & Wine

Drayton's Family Wines, 555 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7513

Lunch Tues– Sat; Open for Dinner for groups 10+ by Special Arrangement

Binnorie Dairy

25 Lodge Road, Lovedale. PH 4998 6660

7 Days; Lunch Sat + Sun

Blaxland Inn

2198 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7550

Lunch Wed–Sun; Dinner 7 Days

Bistro Molines

749 Mount View Road, Mount View. PH 4990 9553

Lunch Thurs–Mon; Dinner Sat (Open Fri Dinner or Midweek by Special Request)

Brokenback Bar

Estate Tuscany, Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7288

All Day Dining from 12PM, 7 Days

Circa 1876

64 Halls Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 4999

Lunch Sat + Sun; Dinner Wed–Sat

Cypress Lakes Bistro & Bar

15 Thompsons Road, Pokolbin. PH 4993 1555 (Ext 835)

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Éléments

Mercure HVG, Cnr Broke Road & McDonalds Road Pokolbin. PH 4998 2000

Dinner 7 Days

eRemo Restaurant

Spicers Guesthouse, 57 Ekerts Road, Pokolbin. PH 4022 1801

Lunch Sat & Sun; Dinner 7 Days

Estate Tuscany

Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7288

7 Days; Onsite Restaurant

EXP. Restaurant

Pokolbin Village, 2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 6585

Lunch Wed–Sun; Dinner Wed–Sat

Fawk Foods Kitchen & Bakery

Pokolbin Village, 2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 6585

Breakfast + Lunch 7 Days

Gigi & Chix Bonbon Patisserie

HVG Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7050

Thurs–Mon

Goldfish Bar & Restaurant

Roche Estate, Cnr McDonalds & Broke Road's, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7671

Lunch + Dinner 7 Days

Great Northern Trading Post

3718 Great North Road, Laguna. PH 4998 8244

Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Fri

Harrigan's Hunter Valley

2090 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 4300

Breakfast, Lunch + Dinner 7 Days

Hunter Belle Cheese Room

1616 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 9159 0770

Cheese Room & Café 7 days

Hunters Quarter

Cockfighters Ghost, 576 De Beyers Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7776

Lunch Sat + Sun; Dinner Fri + Sat

Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop

Roche Estate, Cnr McDonalds & Broke Road's, Pokolbin. PH 4998 6713; Pokolbin Village, 2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 6960

7 Days

Lovedale Smokehouse & Café

64 Majors Lane, Lovedale. PH 4930 7832

Gourmet Pantry Thurs–Mon 11AM–4PM; Café Lunch Thurs– Mon 11AM–4PM

Margan Restaurant

1238 Milbrodale Road, Broke. PH 6579 1317

Lunch Fri–Sun; Dinner Fri + Sat

Muse Kitchen

Cnr Hermitage & Deasy's Roads, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7899

Lunch Wed–Sun; Dinner Sat

Myrtle & Stone

2877 Wollombi Road, Wollombi. PH 4998 3220

Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Thurs–Sat

Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant

Roche Estate, Cnr McDonalds & Broke Road's, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7051

Lunch + Dinner 7 Days

Redsalt Restaurant

Crowne Plaza, 430 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale. PH 4991 0944

Breakfast + Dinner 7 Days

Restaurant Botanica

555 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin. PH 6574 7229

Dinner Wed–Sun; Lunch Sun

Restaurant Cuvee

Cnr Broke Road & Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7881

Breakfast + Lunch 7 Days

Restaurant Eighty Eight

88 Halls Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 4999

Breakfast 7 Days; High Tea Sat + Sun

Restaurant Kawul

Calais Estate, 151 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7333

Breakfast & Lunch Thurs–Mon; Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Fri & Sat

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

Wollombi Tavern, 2994 Great North Road, Wollombi. PH 4998 3261

Breakfast + Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Fri & Sat

The Brunch Society

Tatler Wines, 477 Lovedale Road, Lovedale. PH 4930 9139

Breakfast + Lunch Sat & Sun

The Cellar Restaurant

HVG Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7584

Lunch + Dinner Mon–Sat; Open Sun by Arrangement

The Deck Café

Gartelmann Wines, 701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale. PH 4930 9007

Breakfast + Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Fri + Sat

The Gates Restaurant

Leogate Estate Wines, 1693 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7499

Lunch Thurs–Mon; Dinner Fri & Sat

The Lovedale Bar

Crowne Plaza, 430 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale. PH 4991 0947

All Day Dining from 11AM, 7 Days

The Mighty Hunter Valley

Cnr Fleming St & Wine Country Dr, Nulkaba PH 4058 4155

Mon to Fri 12PM–Late; Sat & Sun 11AM–Late (All Day Dining)

The Mill Restaurant

Estate Tuscany, Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7288

Breakfast 7 Days; Lunch Sat & Sun; Dinner 7 Days

Wandin Kitchen

12 Wilderness Road, Lovedale. PH 4930 9888

Lunch Wed–Sun; Dinner Fri & Sat; Brunch Sundays

Quick Index to Providores and Gourmet Produce (A-Z) Binnorie Dairy

25 Lodge Road, Lovedale. PH 4998 6660

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Fat Cow Cheese Shop

At Ben Ean, 119 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin. PH 4993 3704

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Hunter Belle Cheese Room

1616 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 9159 0770

Cheese Room 7 days, 10AM– 5PM; Café 7 Days 10AM–3PM

Hunter's Dream

149 Deasys Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 6509

Mon–Sat 10AM–5PM; Sun 11AM–4PM

Hunter Valley Chocolate Company

HVG Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7221; Peterson House, Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7301; 2320 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 6999

7 Days (See Website or Call)

Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop

Roche Estate, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Roads, Pokolbin PH 4998 6713; Pokolbin Village, 2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 6960

7 Days

Lovedale Smokehouse

64 Majors Lane, Lovedale. PH 4930 7832

Thurs–Mon 11AM–4PM

Moorebank Vineyard Estate

150 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7610

Wed–Mon 10AM–5PM

Hunter Olive Centre

Pokolbin Estate, 298 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7524 7 Days 9AM–5PM

River Flats Estate

500 Wollombi Road, Broke. PH 0409 791 063

Thurs–Sun 10AM–5PM

The Hunter Providore

Adina Vineyard, 492 Lovedale Road, Lovedale. PH 4930 7473

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Tintilla Estate

725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin. PH 6574 7093

7 Days 10.30AM–6PM

Wedding and Event Venues (A-Z) Estate Tuscany

Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin. www.estatetuscany.com.au

Glenmore Country Estate

Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, 430 Wine Country Drive Lovedale. www.glenmorecountryestate.com.au

Hunter's Dream

149 Deasys Road, Pokolbin. www.huntersdream.com.au/cellar/events

Leogate Estate

1693 Broke Road, Pokolbin. www.leogate.com.au

Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort

15 Thompsons Road, Pokolbin. www.oakshotels.com

The Convent Hunter Valley

88 Halls Road, Pokolbin. www.convent.com.au

Wandin

12 Wilderness Road, Lovedale. www.wandin.com.au ISSUE #17 2021 | 11

WHAT'S

On? Regular Markets HANDMADE IN THE HUNTER

At Kevin Sobels, 9am–3pm 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month (+ more dates)

BROKE VILLAGE MARKET

McNamara Park, Broke, 8am–1pm 1st Sunday of each month

WOLLOMBI CORNER BLOCK MARKETS Cnr Wollombi & Great North Rds, 9am–2pm last Sunday of each month

WOLLOMBI MARKETS

Cattle Sales Yard Paddock, Payne’s Crossing Rd 8am– 2pm + Dos Juans Fine Food 9am–4pm Each pub hol long weekend Monday Market dates subject to change, check individual markets online. 12 | ISSUE #17 2021

May

MOTHER'S DAY LUNCH SUN 9 MAY, HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS Make mum's day extra special with a family lunch at HVG's Garden Terrace. Enjoy a delicious 3-course lunch and live music from 10am–2pm. Mum will also receive a potted plant gift! If you'd prefer a more casual setting, you can also relax with a special picnic hamper in the Formal Garden. The 3-course lunch is $75 adults/$25 kids, or the picnic hamper option is $149 (for 2 adults, 2 kids). Both include Gardens entry, bookings are essential. Visit www.hvg.com.au GREEK FEST IN THE HUNTER SAT 22 MAY, HOPE ESTATE Hope Estate is partnering up with Delphi Bank, the creators of Sydney's hugely popular Greek Festival in Darling Harbour, to bring a standout Mediterranean experience to the Hunter. This authentic celebration of Greek culture, music, food, and drink will host an incredible full day line-up of national dancing troupes, Greek bands plus the amazing Dimitris Basis. Patrons can enjoy an Ouzo and wine tasting, plus an amazing array of Greek foods. Visit www.hopeestate.com.au

June

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL ROADSHOW THURS 10 JUNE, CESSNOCK PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE Join the diverse line-up of the hottest acts direct from the Melbourne International Comedy Festival for a very special show that is sure to tickle everyone’s funny bone, featuring a cast of Australian stars, talented newcomers and special guest international performers. For tickets visit www.cessnockperformingartscentre. com.au HUNTER VALLEY WINE & BEER FESTIVAL SAT 19 JUNE, CROWNE PLAZA HV The 9th annual Hunter Valley Wine Festival will this year be split into 2

separate sessions, with an extensive array of wine, gourmet food, beer and cider on offer. Festival goers will be spoilt for choice with entertainment throughout the day, kids activities, and many taste sensations to choose from. For tickets visit www.huntervalleywinefestival.com

July

HV CHEESE & CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL SAT 3 + SUN 4 JULY, HOPE ESTATE The Hunter Valley Cheese & Chocolate Festival is back, with two full 9am–4pm days at Hope Estate. With more cheese and more chocolate, this will be a fantastic food festival in Pokolbin for families, friends, wine and beer lovers alike. You can enjoy artisan produce, a kids zone, demos, live entertainment, wine and beer tastings, markets and more. Visit www.hopeestate.com.au

August

MAITLAND AROMA COFFEE & CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL SAT 14 + SUN 15 AUGUST Featuring expert chocolatiers, talented baristas and the best of the region’s winemakers, Maitland Aroma is the perfect way to ward off the Winter chill!

This festival of the senses sees the riverside come alive, allowing rugged up visitors to enjoy some of the most indulgent products from across the entire Hunter region and beyond as local entertainers take to the stage to create a light, celebratory atmosphere. Visit www.maitlandaroma.com.au

September

SCULPTURE IN THE VINEYARDS SAT 11–SUN 26 SEPT, WOLLOMBI Sculpture in the Vineyards, Wollombi Valley Sculpture Festival is in its 19th year and is the one of the oldest and largest sculpture festivals in rural NSW. Held over 16 days, this not-for-profit outdoor and indoor exhibition gives local, interstate and international sculptors an opportunity to exhibit their works in the beautiful wineries and rural surroundings of the historic hamlet of Laguna and the Wollombi Village. Visit www.sculptureinthevineyards.com.au STEAMFEST SAT 11 + SUN 12 SEPT, MAITLAND Celebrating 35 years this year, Steamfest is a huge annual event that celebrates Maitland’s rich steam and industrial heritage by offering historic steam train journeys, the Great Train Race, the

gathering of an impressive assembly of antique machinery, the popular Show ‘n’ Shine car display, kids activities, live music and much more for all ages. Visit www.steamfest.com.au END2END FESTIVAL SAT 18 SEPT, POKOLBIN Experience four amazing venues, hosting over 20 local wineries, live music, local gourmet food, and boutique beers with the End2End Festival! Start at any of the four venues and make your way to each with the End2End shuttle bus, or simply drive yourself! Accommodation options are available close to each of the venues. Visit www.end2endfestival.com.au

October

CESSNOCK STOMP FESTIVAL SUN 24 OCT, CESSNOCK Delivering the very best our region has to offer in a one day festival, STOMP is held right in the heart of Cessnock on Vincent Street. This is the place to be to sample the best wine, food, fun and stomp grapes – all in one place! Don't miss out on your chance to get your feet dirty in the Barrell Stomp, enjoy High Tea or get the kids in on their very own Festival Party. For more information and tickets visit www.cessnockstomp.com

What’s On?

Visit ISSUE #17 2021 | 13

Get Online

WITH WINE & DINE! If 2020 taught us nothing else, it taught us about being prepared! The QR Code has become the trusted companion of us all – to register our attendance, provide us with information about any special arrangements and enable us to stay in contact, become members or receive special offers. Wine & Dine Hunter Valley has always been available online as an interactive digital magazine with click-throughs allowing mobile browsers to gather information about Cellar Doors and Restaurants whilst on the go. Now we’ve gone one (actually several) steps further by launching digital tools designed to complement the beautiful magazine you are currently reading and help you to navigate the Hunter Valley and book your next experience whether you are already in the car and on your way, or in your PJs on your couch! INTERACTIVE DIGITAL MAGAZINE – This issue of the interactive Digital Magazine (available on desktop/laptop and mobile devices) contains a new level of linking that recognises the investment in online booking facilities made by all our

favourite cellar doors and restaurants. How to use it: Visit www.wineanddinehuntervalley.com.au and click on ‘MAGAZINE’ in the menu. As you browse through the digital magazine, you will notice that you can click on any listing to get more information online. You might also notice that some listings have a BOOK ONLINE tab on the side. Click on this to go straight to their online booking site and book your visit. MOBILE-FRIENDLY WEBSITE – The all-new website has been optimised for every type of planner. Its beautiful mobile-friendly design enables you to check out everyone on the wine and food trail you’re on, get information about your next stop and even make a booking then and there. If you’re the type that likes to plan and book ahead from home – the full version site has handy interactive trail maps and booking buttons to help you do just that (as well as read the beautiful magazine online). How to use it: Visit www.wineanddinehuntervalley.com.au on your desktop, laptop or mobile device, or scan the QR Code here to go straight there!

OPEN FOR TASTINGS AND SALES

7 Days, 10am–5pm, bookings essential 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley PH (02) 4998 6737 • info@hunterdistillery.com.au www.hunterdistillery.com.au

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“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 31st 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 our Cellar Door Knowledgeable and friendly staﬀ to make you welcome

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. COVID 19 REGULATIONS – WINETASTING BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL – CALL 1800 055 080

Open 10am until 5pm Daily | 771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin 2320 PH 1800 055 080 | E office@mistletoewines.com.au www.mistletoewines.com.au ISSUE #17 2021 | 15

Pokolbin North... Tour Your Way Around Hermitage. DESTINATION

The Pokolbin North Trail stretches from Broke Road to Hermitage Road and Old North Road and encompasses the Around Hermitage group, whose vibrant red signs you will see along the Trail. Apart from exceptionally scenic vista’s, the Pokolbin North Trail includes some of the most renowned and highly awarded wineries, restaurants and providores and boasts some of the most enjoyable wine and food experiences in the Hunter. This unique part of Pokolbin is built upon unique soils of some of the most famous Semillon vineyards along the Rothbury Creek and Jump Up creeks and their tributaries.

Black Creek Farm - Thélème Wines

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Calais Estate

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Estate Tuscany

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Hunter Belle Cheese Room

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Hunter's Dream

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Leogate Estate

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Mistletoe Winery

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Moorebank VIneyard

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Muse Kitchen

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Thomas Wines

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Synonymous with all things relating to wine and food, the area is internationally recognised for its world-class vineyards and restaurants, with its distinct terroir ensuring that some vineyards have enjoyed producing vintages for well over 120 years. Within the numerous wineries, restaurants, cafés, and gourmet food providers are some of the best-known and oldest names in Australian wine. The Trail offers an art gallery and sculpture garden, locally made produce, boutique beers, cheese tasting, golf, cycling, wine and cooking schools, day spas and wine tasting tours. The cycleway on Hermitage Road in Pokolbin offers a great way to do a leisurely tour of the cellar doors at your own pace. The Pokolbin North Trail is a journey to savour. ISSUE #17 2021 16 | POKOLBIN NORTH

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Hunter Distillery Amazing food at EXP Restaurant

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Map Legend Winery/ Cellar Door Restaurant/ Café Providore/ Gourmet Produce Distillery Beer/ Cider/ Bar

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Estate Tuscany The Mill Restaurant Brokenback Bar Thomas Wines

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Black Creek Farm - Thélème Wines 803 Old North Road, Rothbury PH 0410 491 572 www.blackcreekfarm.com.au thelemewines@blackcreekfarm.com.au Order online at www.blackcreekfarm.com.au/shop WINE TASTING & SALES Please call us to make a booking Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday 10AM–4PM GROUPS Welcome Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Good Friday WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay RED WINES Cabernet-Merlot, Shiraz, Rosé WINEMAKER Nick Paterson PRICING From $28 per bottle

Thélème Wines are produced from a single vineyard at Black Creek Farm in the Hunter Valley. Our vines are located on a gentle east facing slope, surrounding a picturesque Winery/ Cellar Door. As a boutique wine producer, we invite you to enjoy our premium Cabernet – Merlot and Shiraz, our exceptional Rose and stunning white wines including Semillon and Chardonnay. Thélème Wines label is derived from our French Heritage. We will be proud to welcome you to present our wines and to share our story. Do not hesitate to contact us to plan your visit. Nadine and Jean.

THÉLÈME WINES

H U N T E R VA L L E Y

BLACK CREEK FARM

Calais Estate 151 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998 7654 www.calaiswines.com.au cellardoor@calaiswines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM–5PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Bookings Essential RESTAURANT KAWUL Thursday to Monday – Breakfast & Lunch Friday & Saturday – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner COME WHAT MAY HOMEWARES & GIFTS Friday to Sunday 10am–5pm Some products available through Cellar Door 7 days

Discover our passion at Calais Estate! A family owned and operated boutique winery in the heart of the Hunter Valley, Calais is renowned for our hand-crafted wines, picturesque estate and hospitality. Visit the charming sandstone Cellar Door to enjoy samplings from one of the longest boutique wine lists in the Valley or book one of our food and wine experiences such as our Winery Long Lunch, to get hands on and make your own sparkling wine! You can also shop locally made products, sample handmade

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condiments, enjoy a cheese and wine matching, dine in the restaurant or linger over a gourmet picnic, all while on the Estate. The beautifully rustic Estate Barrel Room also plays host to many events throughout the year, both big and small. Our Cellar Door is open 7 days 10am–5pm. We are also home to Restaurant Kawul serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as Come What May Homewares and Gifts, specialising in locally made products.

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Estate Tuscany Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane Pokolbin PH 4998 7288 www.estatetuscany.com.au reservations@estatetuscany.com.au BROKENBACK BAR OPENING HOURS 7 Days, 12PM–9PM DINING STYLE Perfect for a quick bit to eat between tastings, coffee, cocktail or long relaxed lunch and dinner. Seasonal menu with emphasis on sharing and seasonal produce. Enjoy wood fired pizzas, share plates and nibbles GROUPS Private Functions | Birthday Celebrations | Pre and Post Wedding Gatherings | Christmas Parties Banquet Menus for groups 10+ Banquet Menu starts $39pp

The Brokenback Bar & The Mill Restaurant On the Grounds of Estate Tuscany Brokenback Bar

The Mill Restaurant

With stunning vineyard and mountain views, The Brokenback Bar is the perfect rest stop for wine tours and visitors alike, located on the grounds of Estate Tuscany offering a relaxed ambiance of indoor (open fireplace) and alfresco dining with something for everyone on the menu; perfect for families and friends. Enjoy beer on tap, Hunter Valley wine or simply stop in for a coffee, offering casual light meals, wood fired pizza, nibbles, charcuterie board, a selection of Estate made sweet things; simple food done well.

With some of the most picturesque views of the Hunter Valley, award-winning signature restaurant, The Mill is on the grounds of Estate Tuscany with a menu that is fresh, local and seasonal. Our ethos is food and wine is a way of life – we’ve created a menu with locally sourced produce and wines, delivering Hunter Valley provincial dining. Enjoy the open fireplace in the cooler months and alfresco dining on the terrace overlooking the vineyards, a view second to none.

COCKTAIL HOUR Mon to Fri 4pm–5pm Selected cocktails $15 (max 2pp) Bookings required

FRIDAY LUNCH SPECIAL – $65 PP 3-Courses with a glass of Thomas Wine To receive this special, please mention at time of booking

THE MILL RESTAURANT OPENING HOURS BREAKFAST 7 Days 8AM–10AM; LUNCH Saturday & Sunday 12PM–3PM; DINNER 7 Days from 6.30PM Bookings essential DINING STYLE The menu is designed for three courses, a light meal option with two courses or a five course tasting menu is available with optional wine pairing. Serving freshly shucked Port Stephens Holbert oysters and an extensive wine list which is primarily Hunter Valley produced GROUPS Group Menu Available | Private Functions | Weddings | Corporate Events | Birthday and Anniversary Celebrations | Children’s Menu Available CELLAR DOOR Thomas Wines open 7 days a week from 10AM– 5PM

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Hunter Belle Cheese Room 1616 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 9159 0770 Hunter Belle is a Cheese Deli, Bar, Gourmet Produce, Café and Gift Store all in one – a social space for people to enjoy quality wine and craft beer matched with artisan cheese and fine food (not to mention our decadent fudge and gelato). We offer a huge award-winning range including creamy bries, flavoursome fetas, bold cheddars as well as butter, milk and yoghurt. Come and discover Hunter Belle today!

www.hunterbellecheeseroom.com cheeseroom@hunterbellecheese.com.au OPENING TIMES Cheese Room open 7 days, 10AM–5PM; Café open 7 days, 10AM–3PM. Cheese plates available all day GROUPS Bookings essential

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Hunter Distillery 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 6737 www.hunterdistillery.com.au info@hunterdistillery.com.au TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM–5PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Bookings essential

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Hunter’s Dream 149 Deasys Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 6509

Dreams are made of this. Discover an estate like no other in the Hunter region. Enjoy the serenity and elegance of beautiful lavender fields, explore the ever evolving Oriental display garden and discover the natural secrets of the Hunter’s Dream culinary range. With award winning estate wines by master wine makers 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.

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www.huntersdream.com.au/cellar enquiries@huntersdream.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Mon to Sat 10AM–5PM; Sun 11AM–4PM Closed Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Welcome. Bookings required for bus tour groups WHITE WINES & ROSÉ STYLE Semillon, Semillon-Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Rosé RED WINES Cabernet Sauvignon-Shiraz, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir SPARKLING WINES Sparkling Cuvee, Sparkling Brut Pinot Noir Chardonnay, Sparkling Shiraz CULINARY DELIGHTS Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Honey, Nuts, Dried Fruits WINEMAKERS Kees van de Scheur and David Fatches PRICE RANGE From $25–$70

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Hunter Distillery is a certified organic distillery in Hunter Valley wine country. Locally owned and operated, they produce an exceptional range of top shelf spirits, including Gins, Vodkas, Liqueurs and Schnapps, and some aged spirits.

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Leogate Estate 1693 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7499 www.leogate.com.au sales@leogate.com.au CELLAR DOOR 7 days 10AM–5PM GROUPS Welcome, bookings essential THE GATES RESTAURANT Open 5 days for Lunch Thurs to Mon, 11:30AM–3:30PM Open for Dinner Fri & Sat, 6PM–9PM Courtesy Bus servicing the Pokolbin area for all Patron’s of The Gates Restaurant GROUPS Welcome, bookings essential ACCOMMODATION The Gate House at Leogate is a luxuriously appointed and generously proportioned 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom designer residence, ideal for 8 guests. Bookings can be made through www.leogate.com.au/the-gatehouseaccommodation

An award-winning venue offering a first-class experience LEOGATE ESTATE

THE GATES RESTAURANT

With breathtaking views of the Brokenback Ranges, this James Halliday red 5-star winery is a must visit. Our opulent cellar door is the perfect place to enjoy our award-winning premium estate wines, whilst our knowledgeable team treat you to a first-class experience. Leogate Estate is a showpiece located in the original Brokenback vineyard.

We invite guests to dine with us at The Gates Restaurant, located at Leogate Estate, recently awarded ‘Best Restaurant in a Winery’ in NSW. Enjoy our renowned ‘dry aged’ beef and our dishes that reflect the regional flavours and textures of the Hunter Valley. The Gates Restaurant is a must visit when in the Hunter Valley!

WEDDINGS AND EVENTS

THE GATEHOUSE

Leogate Estate is an outstanding wedding and event venue located in the beautiful Hunter Valley vineyard area. Our focus on exquisite food, award-winning wines and exceptional service makes us one of the leading venues in the region. Leogate Estate has been recognised for this by being awarded the title of NSW Regional Wedding Caterer of the Year and NSW Caterer of the Year in 2015.

Leogate Estate also offers guests the opportunity to stay in the Hunter Valley. The Gate House accommodation is a luxuriously appointed and generously proportioned 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom designer residence, ideal for 8 guests. Centrally located on the iconic Broke Road and perfectly positioned to take in sweeping, up close views of the Brokenback Mountain rarely experienced in the Hunter Valley.

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Restaurant Botanica is a modern Australian restaurant with a distinctive regional style. Hidden among grapevines and gum trees outside of Pokolbin at Spicers Vineyards Estate, the restaurant appeals to casual diners seeking cuisine with impeccable provenance and a superb regional wine list. Spicers’ signature emphasis on locally sourced produce starts in their own kitchen garden where a bounty of the Hunter’s best produce is used with naturally sustainable practices to create award winning cuisine. Australian Good Food Guide 2019, 2020 & 2021

Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards 2020

restaurantbotanica.com.au Phone 02 6574 7229 • 555 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

Mistletoe Winery 771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7770

Now in its 31st 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.

www.mistletoewines.com.au office@mistletoewines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Open 7 days, 10AM–5PM GROUPS By appointment only COVID 19 REGULATIONS Wine tasting bookings are essential, call 1800 055 080 WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, White Muscat RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet, Merlot, Sangiovese, Pinot Noir SPARKLING Rosé, Mozcato FORTIFIED Shiraz, White Muscat, Semillon SPECIALTIES 3 different Rosés WINEMAKER Scott Stephens PRICING From $18–$75 per bottle

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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 and slightly off dry. “Conserve Water… Drink Moorebank Wines” 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. 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.

Grape and 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.

www.moorebankvineyard.com.au sales@moorebankvineyard.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Open Wednesday to Monday 10AM–5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day & Good Friday GROUPS Welcome, bookings essential $7–$25 tasting fee CONDIMENTS Our Condiment Tasting Plates come with a selection of our handmade, wine inspired condiments & Hunter Valley Cheeses – $10 each AWARDS ‘Best Small Vineyard’ for 3 consecutive years, ‘Woman of Enterprise’ Award PRICE RANGE $7–$70

ANIMALS

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TASTING | DINING | SHOPPING | EVENTS

Boutique Cellar Door - Restaurant - Homewares & Gift Shop Cheese & Wine Matching - Handmade Condiments - Winemaking Sessions - Gourmet Picnics Calais Estate is a family run winery and is home to one of the longest boutique wine lists in the Hunter Valley, as well as the renowned Restaurant Kawul and the vintage modern homewares and gift shop; Come What May. Wine taste, enjoy a wine experience, dine, shop or relax with one of o u r g o u r m e t p i c n i c p a c ks i n t h e b e a u t i f u l E s t a t e g r o u n d s . W i n e r y long lunches with a sparkling wine making session are an event not to be missed. Come and enjoy the hospitality for which we are famous!

CALAISWINES.COM.AU 02 4998 7654 CELLARDOOR@CALAISWINES.COM.AU

OPEN 7 DAYS 10AM - 5PM BOOK ONLINE

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151 PALMERS LANE, POKOLBIN, NSW 2320

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Muse Kitchen Keith Tulloch Wines, Cnr Hermitage & Deasys Roads, Pokolbin PH 4998 7899

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Oakvale Wines 1596 Broke Road Pokolbin PH 4998 7088

Hand crafted, minimal intervention wines Established in 1893, Oakvale Wines has a rich history of winemaking in the Hunter Valley. This family-owned winery has a genuine passion for organic viticultural practices and minimum intervention winemaking. These premium handcrafted wines are made and sold exclusively through our Cellar Door and are one of the Hunter Valleys few 100% vegan friendly and Bellini producers. Next time you visit us, feel free to bring along your furry companion! We are dog friendly and provide water and treats for your 4 legged friends.

www.oakvalewines.com.au info@oakvalewines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM–5PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Bookings essential for groups over 6 (maximum 12) WHITE WINE Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay RED WINE Shiraz, Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon SPECIALITIES Sparkling Apple Cider, Sparkling Bellini TASTING FEE $5 per person, all tasting fees go towards the production of wine for Meals on Wheels Premium Tasting Experience $25 WINEMAKER James Becker PRIVATE WINERY TOUR Booking essential

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Located in the courtyard of Keith Tulloch Wines, you’ll find Muse Kitchen Hunter Valley. It’s warm and welcoming, like you’ve stepped inside a friend’s beautiful country home. When you look over the produce-driven menu you’re reminded of Grandma’s cooking, spiced with flavour, heart and passion. Chef Josh Gregory invites you to try his ever-evolving menu which showcases the best produce and ingredients from the season. With a relaxed atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, Muse Kitchen is the perfect location for any occasion. Be swept away by the Muse experience – we’re a European bistro unlike any other.

www.musekitchen.com.au bookings@musekitchen.com.au OPENING HOURS Lunch Wed to Sun 12PM–3PM; Dinner Sat 6PM–9PM GROUPS Welcome. Set menus available, private functions by request DINING STYLE European PRICE GUIDE 3 course A la Carte menu $85 per person AWARDS SMH Good Food Guide; One Chefs Hat 2013–2019 HEAD CHEF Joshua Gregory

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www.restaurantbotanica.com.au reception.vineyards@spicersretreats.com OPENING HOURS Dinner Wed–Sun, from 6PM; Lunch Sun from 12PM. Bookings essential DINING STYLE Fine casual, a la carte AWARDS AGFG – One Hat 2019–2021; 2-Glasses – Wine List of the Year 2020 PRICE RANGE Main from $35–$48

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Restaurant Kawul At Calais Estate, 151 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998 7333 www.kawul.com.au bookings@kawul.com.au OPENING HOURS Friday & Saturday 8AM–8:30PM Monday, Thursday, Sunday 8AM–3PM CLOSED Christmas Day and Boxing Day GROUPS Bookings for 12+ please email bookings@kawul.com.au DINING STYLE Native inspired cuisine High chairs available Vegetarian/Vegan and Gluten Free options available MAINS PRICE GUIDE $25–$38 Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Restaurant Kawul is located on the picturesque Calais Estate. With sweeping vineyard views from the verandah, Kawul provides an idyllic setting to linger over a delicious meal. Looking back to the organic produce used by our ancestors, Restaurant Kawul craft native inspired cuisine, delivering modern and creative dishes that complement the land and region. Kawul is also the perfect location for your wedding or next event and can cater to all dietary requirements, with particular talent for vegan dishes.

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Tintilla Estate 725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin PH 6574 7093 From Grape to Glass • Family run boutique, winery and single vineyard estate • Estate grown and made Olives, Tapenade, Jams and Relishes

www.tintilla.com.au info@tintilla.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10.30AM–6PM, Closed Christmas Day. Bookings essential WINEMAKERS James Lusby & Robert Lusby PRICE RANGE $20 to $60/bottle

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Restaurant Botanica is a modern Australian restaurant hidden among grapevines and gum trees at Spicers Vineyards Estate, appealing to casual diners seeking cuisine with impeccable provenance and a superb regional wine list. Spicers’ signature emphasis on locally sourced produce starts in their own kitchen garden, where a bounty of the Hunter’s best produce is used with naturally sustainable practices to create award winning cuisine in a distinctive regional style.

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Restaurant Botanica Spicers Vineyard Estate, 555 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin PH 6574 7229

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Thomas Wines 28 Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998 7134 www.thomaswines.com.au cellardoor@thomaswines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Open daily 10AM–5PM, online bookings highly recommended Closed Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and Good Friday WINES Semillon and Shiraz WINEMAKER Andrew Thomas AWARDS 5 Red Star Halliday Rated PRICE RANGE $22–$85/bottle

the stylistic diversity that can be achieved within the Hunter Valley’s two signature varieties. During this seated tasting your host will take you through four Semillon and four Shiraz including a couple of our premium single vineyard wines.

Thomas Wines is one of the Hunter Valley’s most renowned winemakers, internationally acclaimed for its exceptional, single vineyard Hunter Valley Semillon and Shiraz. A tasting experience at Thomas Wines highlights the stylistic diversity that can be achieved within the Hunter Valley’s signature varieties, Semillon and Shiraz. We have curated two seated tasting experiences – The Discovery and The Journey.

THE JOURNEY

THE DISCOVERY

This is a fun and informative tasting, highlighting

Your host will guide you through a structured journey of our entire range, focusing on the influence of the soils and other aspects that contribute to the unique personality of our single vineyard Semillon and Shiraz.

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WHITES Of The Hunter

The Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s best white wine areas – consistently winning a large 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 and the popular single varietal wine – Verdelho. SEMILLON – Hunter Valley Semillon is considered to be of the highest quality and best example of a dry Semillon produced anywhere in the world. Classic Hunter Semillon has piercing acidity and citrus flavours, renown for its ability to age well and evolve through an array of flavours, slowly developing into richer and more honeyed characters. CHARDONNAY – Planted in the Hunter since the 1970’s, this adaptable and hearty grape flourishes easily in most climates and conditions. It is now one of the most widely-planted grape varieties worldwide, and is an important component of many sparkling wines around the world, including Champagne.

VERDELHO – The characteristics of Verdelho vary significantly according to the climate, growing conditions, the winemaker’s skill and the timing of the harvest. The Hunter Valley produces very distinctive styles of Verdelho wine displaying a spiciness, both on the nose and the palate. PINOT GRIGIO (or Pinot Gris) – Although they are the same grape, the two names have over time come to infer two different styles of wine. The popular 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. 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 – dependant on growing conditions and vine age. Mostly intended to be consumed young, 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 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. The name Gewurztraminer literally translates as spicy Traminer. FIANO – This variety is relatively new to the Hunter Valley, and also Australia. This Italian native from the Campania region is low yielding and early ripening and produces crisp, wellbalanced wines that offer floral and honeyed flavours that are complemented by tropical fruit and spice nuances. A great pick for all white wine lovers.

TYPICAL FOOD MATCHES FOR WHITE WINES LIGHTER BODIED + AROMATIC WHITES

The high acidity found in these varieties makes them ideal for raw seafood, Asian and Thai dishes, fried food, and Mediterranean food. Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc/blends, Semillon, Gewürztraminer

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MEDIUM BODIED WHITES

cheese and cream-based pastas, all types of poultry and pork. Chardonnay, Verdelho, Viognier

FULLER BODIED WHITES

Perfect with spicy and sweet foods such as curries, spicy Asian dishes, fruity desserts and a creamy brie cheese. Riesling, Moscato, Gewürztraminer

Zestier acidic styles of wines are perfect with lighter foods such as salads, pastas and tapas. Pinot G, Fiano, Marsanne, Vermentino

Rich textured, fuller varieties make a great match for rich seafood,

SWEETER STYLES

“MY FOCUS FOR HUNTERS QUARTER IS A RESTAURANT THAT EXUDES SMART CASUAL DINING WITH ELEGANT FOOD ACCOMPANIED BY GREAT WINES.”

Brian Duncan

LET THE FLAVOURS DO THE TALKING AT

Hunters Quarter Since opening its doors for the first time back in 2016, Hunters Quarter very quickly became the Hunter Valley’s latest taste sensation. WORDS Quentin von Essen Attracted by the lifestyle, wine and food offered by the region, owner and head chef Brian Duncan, his wife Jen and their young children decided on a ‘tree change’. They settled in the Hunter Valley, where they opened Hunters Quarter at Pooles Rock vineyard in Pokolbin. Describing his style as Modern European, Brian brought a formidable wealth of experience to the Hunter’s dining scene, having worked in the large and organised kitchens of the Dorchester Hotel (three Michelin stars) and Claridge’s Hotel (one Michelin Star) in Mayfair in London. Brian was also the executive chef at Level 41 and The Establishment – two of Sydney’s most iconic dining venues. Working in such illustrious establishments has meant that Brian has cooked for celebrities that include the Queen,

Princess Diana, and a host of entertainment names such as Harvey Keitel, Sting, Jack Nicholson, Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise. He also cooked for Russian President Vladimir Putin during the 2014 Winter Olympics. The restaurant itself is elegant and stylishly furnished with floor to ceiling windows providing an abundance of natural light and a wonderful view of the vineyards. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, and the dining space has a modern look to it, with a polished cement floor, light-coloured timber tables, dark plush chairs, high wooden ceilings and drop pendant lighting. “My focus for Hunters Quarter is a restaurant that exudes smart casual dining with elegant food accompanied by great wines. Our floor plan allows for generous-sized tables with ample spacing between them to provide diners with sufficient privacy,” said Brian. With a distinct dining style in mind, Brian did not want to be just another fine dining restaurant. Instead, he has merged his years of experience and technical expertise with a casual execution of regional produce and lets the flavours do the talking. And talk they do. With menu options that include raw harvested seafood with salmon caviar, pomelo, sea gapes, finger lime and smoked soy ponzu; and main course options such as the tender, Wagyu beef fillet with sourdough pecorino gratin, confit eschalots, choy sum and shimeji mushroom. Your final challenge will be to resist the caramel chocolate pave with milk and Laguna honey ice cream, blackberries and roasted white chocolate. Or not! And, as you would expect from a restaurant nestled in the vineyards of Pooles Rock, there is an extensive selection of fine wines from their vineyards as well as its associated vineyard, Audrey Wilkinson. Hunters Quarter is up there with the best in contemporary regional dining. There’s something for every taste, delivered seamlessly in a relaxed, elegant dining experience and served in a beautiful vineyard setting. Find more on page 41. ISSUE #17 2021 | 29

Pokolbin South... DESTINATION

Baumé Restaurant, Café, Bar - Ben Ean BelleVue Food & Wine

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Blaxland Inn

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Circa 1876 Cypress Lakes Bistro & Bar

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Drayton's Family Wines

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The ideal viticultural conditions of the Pokolbin South Trail produce some of the most highly regarded examples of the acclaimed Hunter Valley wine styles of Shiraz, Semillon, Verdelho and Chardonnay, promising an authentic and unique curated wine experience for both the novice and expert wine enthusiast. In addition to classic Hunter wines, you’ll also find varieties not commonly seen in the region like Tempranillo, Fiano, Grenache, Vermentino, and Nebbiolo. ISSUE #17 2021 30 | POKOLBIN SOUTH

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Elements

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eRemo Restaurant

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EXP. Restaurant

Unsurprisingly, it’s home to many of the area’s most popular places to wine, dine, shop, stay and play – and back in 2010, several such destinations came together to form the Parish of Pokolbin group and build on the area’s solid foundation of history, heritage and unique character.

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Ernest Hill Wines

Officially established in the 1880s, the ‘Parish’ is the oldest wine region in Australia, encompassing some of the region’s best viticulture sites. Although much of the Hunter Valley region is labelled ‘Pokolbin’, the Parish of Pokolbin is a very distinct area lying at the foothills of the Brokenback Range in the southern part of the Valley. As a result, the area includes the names of some of the early pioneering families who continue to leave their mark on the wine industry.

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Elbourne Wines

The Pokolbin South Trail is located on the southern side of Pokolbin, stretching from Broke Road to Oakey Creek Road and encapsulating the Parish of Pokolbin.

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Ben Ean

All types of cuisine is available in the Hunter – including Thai! Oishii Thai Japanese

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Fat Cow Cheese Shop

Fawk Foods Kitchen & Bakery

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Gigi & Chix Bonbon Patisserie

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Goldfish Bar & Restaurant

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Harrigan’s Hunter Valley

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Hope Estate/Brewery/Distillery

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Hungerford Hill

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11, 17, 18

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Hunter Olive Centre

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Hunters Quarter

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Hunter Valley Chocolate Co. Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop

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Irongate Estate

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Ivanhoe Wines

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M&J Becker Wines

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McLeish Estate

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Meerea Park

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Mount Pleasant Wines

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Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant

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Peterson House

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Petersons Wines

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Pokolbin Cider House

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Pokolbin Estate

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Restaurant Cuvee - Peterson House

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Restaurant Eighty Eight

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Small Mouth Vodka

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Tamburlaine Organic Wines

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Tempus Two

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The Cellar Restaurant VAMP By Lisa McGuigan

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Mount View WOLLOMBI

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Roche Estate Complex Goldfish Bar & Restaurant Oishii Japanese Thai M&J Becker Wines Meerea Park Tempus Two Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop

Hunter Valley Gardens Village Hunter Valley Chocolate Co. Gigi & Chix Bonbon Patisserie Small Mouth Vodka The Cellar Restaurant Harrigan’s Hunter Valley

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Mount Pleasant Wines

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16 Ben Ean Baumé Restaurant Fat Cow Cheese Shop

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Pokolbin Village EXP. Restaurant Fawk Foods Kitchen & Bakery Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop Hope Estate/ Brewery/Distillery

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Map Legend Winery/ Cellar Door Restaurant/ Café Providore/ Gourmet Produce Distillery Beer/ Cider/ Bar

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Baumé Restaurant, Café, Bar 119 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin PH 4993 3705

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At Baumé, we source the best of local ingredients and tend to them with love to create a casual family dining experience. We are renowned for our shared signature dishes and large house made pizza’s. Whilst you’re visiting Baumé, our Cellar Door has an extensive wine selection, which caters to every wine enthusiast. We host some of the best known wines in the Hunter Valley such as Petersons Wines, Savannah Estate, Lisa McGuigan, Lindeman’s, Penfolds and more! Before you leave, indulge yourself upstairs with cheese, olive and chocolate tastings.

www.benean.com.au baume@benean.com.au OPENING HOURS Lunch 7 Days, 11AM–4PM Dinner Thurs to Mon, 6PM–9PM 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 and salads Everything is local and house made

Blaxland Inn 2198 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7550 Famous for our steaks, smoked meats, craft beers, boutique wines and with friendly hospitality. Blaxland Inn, established in 1976 and one of the first restaurants to open in the Hunter Valley offers a relaxed experience with a country atmosphere. It is the perfect place for a great meal with family and friends after exploring what the Hunter Valley has to offer. Offering a warm ambience, with friendly staff and great value meals, dine inside or on our undercover terrace, every aspect is comfortable. Winter is a wonderful time at Blaxland Inn, imagine sipping a lovely port listening to the crackle of the fire under the stars, what better way to end your day of tastings. Our menu has a lot to offer, from steaks, smoked meat dishes, garlic prawns, pasta, salads and so much more. We can also cater for your corporate groups, birthdays and wedding receptions. We have various packages available from a personal private room to the entire restaurant hire. Don’t forget to ask about our courtesy vehicle for transfers within a 10 minute radius. We look forward to welcoming you to Blaxland Inn!

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www.blaxlandinn.com.au info@blaxlandinn.com.au OPENING HOURS Lunch Wed to Sun 12PM–3PM; Dinner 7 Nights 5PM–9PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day GROUPS We welcome weddings, corporate groups, birthdays. various rooms and packages available DINING STYLE Australian casual SPECIALITIES Steaks, smoked meats, beers, wines and caters for all dietary needs COURTESY VEHICLE Available within 10 minute radius MENTION THIS AD WHEN BOOKING AND RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY BEER TASTING PADDLE!

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Circa 1876 64 Halls 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.

www.circa1876.com.au reservations@circa1876.com.au OPENING HOURS Dinner Wed–Sat 5.30PM–9PM; Lunch Sat & Sun 12PM–2.30PM Min 3 course $110pp applies to Lunch and Dinner GROUPS Bookings Essential MAP REF:

Cypress Lakes Bistro & Bar 15 Thompsons Road, Pokolbin PH 4993 1555 (Ext 835) www.oakshotels.com OPENING HOURS Open 7 Days Breakfast (in-house guests only) Lunch & Dinner 12PM–9PM Open all Public Holidays GROUPS Welcome with booking DINING STYLE Enjoy a casual atmosphere Vegetarian options and high chair available PRICE GUIDE Main meals from $23–$36

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Circa 1876 is a tranquil culinary treat pleasing to lovers of both food and wine.

Perfect for locals and visitors Nestled in the Hunter Valley, Cypress Lakes Bistro & Bar delivers fresh flavours in a relaxed and family friendly setting. Enjoy lunch or dinner, derived from locally sourced, seasonal produce as you sample the very best wines that the Hunter Valley has to offer. With a selection of daily specials, including a $20 lunch deal, there is something to suit locals and visitors alike. Enjoy live music every Saturday. MAP REF:

Elbourne Wines 236 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 6996 This is a truly boutique family vineyard with extremely kid friendly private tastings conducted on the homestead verandah. From here you can take in the spectacular views across the 2ha Chardonnay vineyard and the Hunter Valley countryside. Elbourne Wines produces multiple award winning single vineyard Chardonnay and Shiraz from the Estate, and exciting new offerings of Tempranillo, Rose’ and Verdelho.

www.elbournewines.com.au elbournewines@bigpond.com WINE TASTING & SALES BY APPOINTMENT ONLY GROUPS Maximum group size of 10 WINEMAKER Nick Paterson PRICE GUIDE From $25 to $70 p/bottle

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Drayton’s Family Wines + BelleVue Food & Wine 555 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

DRAYTONS FAMILY WINES PH 4998 7513 www.draytonswines.com.au drink@draytonswines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Mon to Fri 8AM–5PM Sat, Sun + Pub Hols 10AM–5PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Welcome with booking WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Traminer, Verdelho, Sauvignon Blanc RED WINES Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz Tempranillo FORTIFIED A vast range including Liqueur Verdelho and 1978 Tawny SPARKLING Traditional and Charmat AWARDS Over the past 20 years the Liqueur Verdelho has been awarded 10x Gold, 10x Top Gold and 12x Trophies WINEMAKER Mark Smith PRICE RANGE From $15–$150 p/b

Drayton’s Family Wines Pioneers of the Hunter – Since 1853

BelleVue Food & Wine at Drayton’s Family Wines

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 160 years since the first Drayton trod on rich Hunter Valley soil. 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 produce wines of outstanding quality and standing. 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 fortified wine, with one of the largest ranges of fortifieds in the Hunter Valley. Open 7 days for individual tastings and private group tasting by appointment. To complete your visit, enjoy the culinary delights from the onsite restaurant, BelleVue Food & Wine.

BelleVue Food & Wine at Drayton’s Family winery celebrates locally sourced produce, masterfully prepared and presented to tempt your tastebuds. The modern stone-hearth carousel and wood fired oven produces great pizzas. The new bar setting with its floating copper font serves cold BullockWagon craft beer on draft to enjoy on the outdoor dining deck complementing the extensive grazing and sharing style menu. A wide selection of Drayton’s Family wines both by the glass and bottle enhances the dining experience. A range of “grab and go” food and beverage selections are also available for takeaway. The venue also offers menus for groups wishing to dine privately in a winery environment and caters for company retreats, weddings and personal dining experiences. BelleVue Food & Wine also has menus for delivery or pick up allowing for a fine dining experience in your private villa. Chef Scott Webster and his professional team offer a relaxed, no fuss dining experience inside an air-conditioned dining area or on the open air outdoor deck where guests can enjoy vast views looking out over the BelleVue vineyard and valley.

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BELLEVUE FOOD & WINE PH 4998 7513 www.bellevuefoodandwine.com.au bellevuefoodwine@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Lunch Tues to Sat from 11.30AM Catering for Dinner groups of 10+ by arrangement Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day DINING STYLE Casual relaxed dining. High chairs and vegetarian meals available PRICE GUIDE $16–$30

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Éléments Cnr Broke & McDonalds Roads, Pokolbin PH 4998 2000 www.mercurehuntervalley.com.au reservations@mrhvg.com.au OPENING HOURS A-la-Carte Dinner 5.30PM–9PM 7 days. Bookings in advance

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eRemo Restaurant 57 Ekerts Road, Pokolbin PH 4022 1801 www.eremo.com.au reception.guesthouse@spicersretreats.com OPENING HOURS Lunch Sat & Sun, 12PM and 1.30PM Dinner 7 days, 6PM, 7PM and 8PM DINING STYLE A la carte and share style AWARDS Best Regional Italian Restaurant PRICE GUIDE Mains from $24–$46

There is no better setting on earth than Australia’s oldest wine region for éRemo’s distinctive brand of modern Italian dining. Generous and warm, it epitomises our approach to food and wine – that they go spectacularly well together, and that they are better when shared. Dine a la carte or ‘Avido’, where our chefs choose a selection of dishes from the menu for you. Come and discover éRemo at Spicers Guesthouse.

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Ernest Hill Wines 307 Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba PH 4991 4418 It’s our pleasure to be part of your 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 Unique Wines • Sample our delicious quartet of unique 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.

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Excellent Service • Friendly and informative service in the relaxed surroundings of our picturesque cellar door, with spectacular views of the Hunter Valley.

www.ernesthillwines.com.au wines@ernesthillwines.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 Days 10AM–5PM, Closed on Christmas Day and New Years Day GROUPS Groups welcome 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

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The title éléments is derived from the natural elements of fire, water and soil, components that resonate with the Hunter, reflected in the entire restaurant experience. These elements and quality produce are transformed by our Executive Chef Michael Watson who has created a menu influenced by the flavours of France and Italy.

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EXP. Restaurant 2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 6585 www.exprestaurant.com.au reservations@exprestaurant.com.au OPENING HOURS Lunch Wednesday to Sunday; Dinner Wednesday to Saturday Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Welcome DINING STYLE A unique dining experience with a produce driven menu served in a relaxed atmosphere PRICE GUIDE From $38

At EXP. our focus is to create a delicious, entertaining and interactive dining EXP.erience. Food is at the heart of EXP. and the menu is driven by the seasons and produce. The team sources local produce as much as possible, with quality always being the key. With these ingredients the kitchen creates dishes that are our EXP.ression of Australian cuisine. The restaurant is 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 chef bar and peer directly into the kitchen while interacting with Chef Frank Fawkner and his team.

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Fat Cow Cheese Shop At Ben Ean, 119 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin PH 4993 3704 www.dvinetreats.com.au fatcowcheese@outlook.com OPENING HOURS 7 Days 10AM–5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Good Friday and Easter Sunday GROUPS Bus groups please book. Walkins welcome for tastings at the counter, book to ensure a sit down tasting SPECIALTIES Olive Oil, Cheese, Sauces, Condiments and Chocolate and Fudge tastings are all available The Fat Cow Cheese Shop is an expansion of D’Vine Treats that started out nearly 3 years ago in the Ben Ean Cellar Door. With the introduction of the Fat Cow Cheese shop, we can now offer the full selection of tastings and sales to our customers in one great environment. The Fat Cow Cheese shop stocks the best of the Hunter Valley’s local cheeses along with the regions best olive oil and vinegar producers. We stock some of the best condiments, packaged meats and sauces from small producers all around NSW.

Visit us for cheese, chocolate, olive oil tastings and maybe even grab a Gelato while you are here. Our friendly staff are here to help provide you with quality products and great service, you might even learn something while you’re here! You can find us upstairs within Ben Ean Winery – we look forward to meeting you soon.

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Fawk Foods Kitchen & Bakery 2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 6585 www.fawkfoods.com enquiries@fawkfoods.com OPENING HOURS 7 days, 8AM–2PM Breakfast available all day; Lunch from 11.30AM–2PM. Takeaway available – Phone 4998 6585 Fresh baked bread daily Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Welcome Highchairs and Vegetarian menu available

It’s all about good times and tasty food. Come in for your choice of barista brew every morning along with breakfast available all day or fresh baked goodies and sourdough. We love what we do, pop in so we may serve you. See how great casual dining can be. Takeaway hampers are available.

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Gigi & Chix Bonbon Patisserie HVG Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7050 www.gigichix.com.au info@gigichix.com.au OPENING HOURS Monday, Thursday & Friday 9AM–4PM; Saturday 9AM–3.30PM; Sunday 9AM– 3PM. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays GROUPS Bookings Essential DINING STYLE French Patisserie, High Tea, Takeaway Coffee SPECIALTIES French style pastries and cakes, savoury bites

French Patisserie | High Tea | Pastries Coffee & Tea We are a contemporary Parisian Patisserie specialising in delicious pastries that not only taste delightful but look fabulous as well. The menu includes a stunning range of cakes, pastries and savouries made from scratch using only the best ingredients as well as the famous ‘The Grounds of Alexandria’ Coffee. We also have an exclusively local wine list to choose from. So, discover our brand-new patisserie at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village today!

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Goldfish Bar & Restaurant, located at Roche Estate, offers guests casual dining that is designed to be shared with friends and family. Famous for its cocktails and extensive wine list, guests enjoy the eclectic style restaurant with its 40’s style feel. Large groups, hens and bucks parties are welcome. Book for our unique Cocktail Masterclass or Pinot and Picasso! Our philosophy is simple, to provide a warm, fun environment, good food and great cocktails. Call 4998 7671 or book online at www.thegoldfish.com.au.

www.thegoldfish.com.au manager@thegoldfish.com.au OPENING HOURS Open from 11.30AM for Lunch & Dinner daily. Open late Friday and Saturday evenings GROUPS Please call or email our Events Manager for group bookings and set menus. functions@thegoldfish.com.au VENUE STYLE Cocktail Bar DINING STYLE Tapas style shared platters AWARDS 2019 Good Food Guide Readers Choice SPECIALTIES Award winning cocktails Must-have pizza’s Family friendly Dietary requirements catered for Inside and terrace dining PRICE GUIDE $18–$40

Harrigan’s Hunter Valley 2090 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 4300 www.harrigans.com.au enquiries@harrigans.com.au OPENING HOURS Breakfast 7 Days 7AM–10.30AM; Lunch 7 Days 12PM–3PM; Dinner 7 Nights 5.30PM–9PM CLOSED Christmas Day GROUPS Bookings essential DINING STYLE Casual pub-style dining, family friendly SPECIALTIES Beef & Guinness Pie PRICE GUIDE Main meals from $24 Whether you’re a sport enthusiast, cocktail lover, live music aficionado or simply seeking a great family dining location – Harrigan’s has something for you! Harrigan’s is the ultimate place to relax with friends and family, boasting an exceptional outdoor dining space on the Terrace for lazy Summer evenings and a cozy open fire in the bistro when the weather gets a bit chilly. There’s also a great sports bar and the only TAB in Wine Country. Our central location to many of the Hunter’s favourite attractions, coupled with great casual dining and accommodation makes Harrigan’s the ideal stop for your getaway.

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Goldfish At Roche Estate, Cnr Broke & McDonald’s Road’s, Pokolbin PH 4998 7671

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Hope Estate 2213 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4993 3555 or 1800 777 444 www.hopeestate.com.au info@hopeestate.com.au OPENING HOURS Sunday to Thursday 10AM–5PM; Friday & Saturday 10AM–6PM (or until 7PM during daylight savings) Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day and Boxing Day, New Years Day GROUPS Booking preferred and essential for groups over 10 CAFÉ Lunch available Fri–Sun. Prebook a pizza package ($42pp), or enjoy pizza, cheese and charcuterie plates SPIRITS Gin, Vodka, Moonshine BEER Lager, Pale Ale, XPA, IPA, Pacific Lager/Pale Ale, Stouts, Gluten Free Pilsner, NEIPA, Cider, Sours + more! WINE LABELS Hope Estate, Hope Signature Series, Tower Estate and Virgin Hills WHITE WINES Chardonnay, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Verdelho, Semillon Verdelho, Riesling, Rosé RED WINES Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon SPARKLING WINES Pinot Chardonnay, Sparkling Shiraz SWEET WINES Moscato WINEMAKER Patrick Moore AWARDS 2016 Champion Small Brewery PRICE GUIDE $20–$130

Hope Estate Concerts | Events | Wine | Beer | Spirits Our Estate

Beer

Hope Estate is perfectly located in the heart of Hunter Valley wine country. Award winning craft beer, Estate-grown wine, premium Australian grain spirits and home to the biggest concerts going around. Hope Estate is a family owned and operated working winery, brewery and distillery set in spectacular grounds. The Estate is also home to the Australia’s largest purpose-built outdoor winery concert amphitheatre that hosts an array of legendary performers each concert season. Hope Estate is the only winery in the world that has hosted The Rolling Stones!

If beer is more your thing, why not try a beer tasting paddle of four varieties from our 22 taps! Across our tap range you can find everything from hoppy ales, NEIPAs, sours, trophy-winning stouts, cider and more! Can’t choose just four? We also offer a flight of 12 served with a cheese plate.

Wine

Our newly renovated Cellar Door offers a variety of experiences for everyone to enjoy in the one place. We have two wine tasting experiences available with wines from the Hope Estate, Signature Series, Tower Estate and Virgin Hills ranges.

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Spirits For those who are after something different, our spirit tasting paddles will go down just a treat! Choose from a gin paddle or a vodka and moonshine paddle. All served with a matching garnish, soda or tonic water and mini bucket of ice. Perfectly enjoyed overlooking the amphitheatre. Bookings are highly recommended. Call us on 1800 777 444 to book now. We look forward to welcoming you! MAP REF:

Experience, a mini degustation showcasing the best of the Hunter region, which features bitesized dishes from Muse paired with a selection of Hungerford wines. Having recently added the Dalwood Vineyard – Australia’s oldest continuously operating vineyard – to its portfolio, Hungerford Hill has cemented itself in the country’s winemaking history while ensuring that elegant, characterful wines will remain the standard for years to come. Winner 2018 James Halliday 5-star Rated Winery and Winner Gourmet Traveller Australia’s 2019 Best Cellar Door with Food

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Hungerford Hill is a boutique winery nestled in the heart of the Hunter Valley. With renowned winemaker Bryan Currie at the helm, Hungerford produces award-winning wines packed with character and interest, focusing on classic Hunter varietals as well as the cool-climate regions of Hilltops and Tumbarumba. The team at Hungerford have worked tirelessly to build a reputation for distinguished wines and an unforgettable cellar door experience, in partnership with the two-hatted Muse Restaurant that operates on site. Their respective talents combine for the Epic Tasting

www.hungerfordhill.com.au wines@hungerfordhill.com.au OPENING HOURS Sun to Thurs 10AM–5PM; Friday & Saturday 10AM–6PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Welcome. Bookings essential 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

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Hungerford Hill 2450 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7666

Hunters Quarter 576 De Beyers Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7776 www.huntersquarter.com.au info@huntersquarter.com.au OPENING HOURS Lunch Sat & Sun 11.30AM–3.30PM Dinner Fri & Sat 5.30PM–10.30PM Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day DINING STYLE Smart Casual Vegetarian, GF, Vegan, DF available OTHER OFFERINGS Weddings & Corporate Events Private Bookings Offsite Catering

A Unique and Beautiful Setting 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.

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.

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Hunter Valley Chocolate Company PH 4991 3008 www.hvchocolate.com.au admin@hvchocolate.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 Days RETAIL OUTLETS Twenty-3-Twenty 2320 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 6999 The Stonehouse at Peterson House Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7301 Shop 5, HV Gardens Village Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7221 GROUPS Bus groups welcome, bookings advised SPECIALTIES Hand made chocolates and fudge, candy, gourmet produce and gifts

Located in the heart of Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company has been a family owned and operated Hunter Valley gem for the last 20 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! Hunter Valley Chocolate Company invites you to visit one of our three wine country locations to indulge in our fine range of unique chocolate products; one bite will keep you coming back for more!

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Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop At Roche Estate, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rds, Pokolbin

PH 4998 6713

Hall of Food Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese shop provides a large range of the finest local and imported Artisan cheese, gourmet delights, charcuterie, including its own “Smelly” product range, and a kitchen which is open from 10am daily. “Not just cheese”, we are a one stop shop for local, Australian and imported gourmet deli items. If you are looking for a particular cheese, our friendly staff can assist with hundreds of cheeses we have to choose from.

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Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop is also home to the Hunter Valley Gelato Company, featuring traditional Italian Gelato made onsite using traditional Italian recipes. Sorbet plus gluten free and vegan is also available. There are 36 flavours to choose from at the Hall of Food plus take home packs also available. We offer catering from customised platters to wraps to Celebration Towers. We also have an outlet at Pokolbin Village, 2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin – open 7 days.

www.smellycheese.net.au info@smellycheese.net.au OPENING HOURS Sun to Thurs 10AM–5PM; Fri & Sat 10AM–5:30PM GROUPS Bookings essential for cheese tastings DINING STYLE Casual SPECIALTIES Cheese & Antipasto Platters, Burgers, Wraps, Baguettes, Pizzas, Halloumi Fries, Hot Chips plus Loaded options, Vegetarian and Vegan options available including specials PRICE GUIDE $8.50–$18

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Iron Gate Estate Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 6570

Inspired by winemaking tradition, Iron Gate Estate is a boutique, family-run winery in Pokolbin. We produce unique, handcrafted wines from our estate-grown fruit and select parcels of cool climate fruit from premium regions of NSW that showcases the true essence of our winemaking philosophy.

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Ivanhoe Wines 525 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7325

Home of the Big Gutsy Reds. Ivanhoe is a family wine business specialising in small and personal wine experiences. Our friendly team are passionate about wines and good service. Book a table online for a seated tasting on our wide verandah and learn the art of Wine Tasting whilst looking out over the enchanting vineyard and mountain range. We can offer a seated Wine Masterclass with accompanying cheese plate which is currently the No.1 Thing To Do in Pokolbin on Trip Advisor. We’ll help you find wines that you love!

www.ivanhoewines.com.au tracy@ivanhoewines.com.au WINE TASTING SALES 7 Days 10AM–5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Good Friday and Anzac Day Online bookings are recommended 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, Dark Horse Premium Shiraz, Sweet Red Wine SPARKLING Sparkling Maiden (Moscato/ Traminer blend) FORTIFIED WINES Aged Liqueur Verdelho, Tawny Port, Liqueur Cabernet Sauvignon, 10 Yr Old Muscat PRICE RANGE $30–$95 p/bottle

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Where every taste is an experience.

www.irongateestate.com cellardoor@irongate.estate WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM–4PM Closed Christmas Day, New Years Day and Easter Friday GROUPS Up to 10 welcome with booking WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho and blends RED WINES Rosé Cabernets, Shiraz, Tempranillo and blends SPARKLING Chardonnay, Rosé, Cabernet Shiraz SWEET TABLE WINES Semillon Verdelho, Shiraz WINEMAKER Geoff Broadfield & Jade Hafey PRICE RANGE From $25–$450 p/b

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Style

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

Award Winning Restaurants

H U N T E R

V A L L E Y

CIRCA 1876 interior

Accommodation at The Convent

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

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M&J Becker Wines At Roche Estate, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Roads, Pokolbin PH 0422 364 255

M&J Becker Wines is a collaboration of husband and wife team, Meagan and James. They have a winemaking focus and excitement for the Hunter Valley wine region, purposefully made with minimal intervention and are all vegan friendly. Inspired to make wines that are truly expressive of season and site, their wines show typicity of variety as well as great vibrancy and balance. Petillant Naturel, Prosecco, Chardonnay, Rosé, Syrah as well as Piquette are some of the wines on tasting, a continually changing line-up of

www.beckerwines.com.au info@beckerwines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM–5PM GROUPS Welcome, bookings essential WHITE WINES Chardonnay and White Blend RED WINES Syrah, Pinot Noir and Red Blend PINK WINES Rosé, Amber SPARKLING Petillant Naturel, Prosecco, Piquette WINEMAKER Meagan & James Becker PRICE RANGE $30–$90 per/bottle

small batch wines to taste at the cellar door with the winemakers. If you’re looking for something new out of the Hunter Valley, drop in!

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McLeish Estate 462 De Beyers Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7754 McLeish Estate, in the heart of the Hunter Valley in Pokolbin, celebrates 36 years as one of the region’s most awarded boutique producers. Our 11 hectare, single estate vineyard produces quality and varietal purity that has seen our Semillon awarded the Trophy for Best International Semillon. Australia’s best and the region’s most celebrated wine. Our exclusive and exceptional range is only available through our cellar door and selected outlets.

www.mcleishestatewines.com.au info@mcleishestatewines.com.au WINE TASTING & 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–$60 p/b

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Meerea Park Roche Estate, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Roads, Pokolbin PH 4998 7474

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.

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Mount Pleasant 401 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7505 Nestled in the foothills of Brokenback Ranges, you will find the birthplace of Australian winemaking. Established in 1921 by legendary winemaker, Maurice O’Shea, Mount Pleasant has long set the benchmark for table wines across the nation creating elegant and complex wines expressive of the Hunter Valley’s unique terroir. Sourcing fruit from four of Australia’s oldest and most iconic vineyards – Old Hill, Old Paddock, Rosehill and Lovedale, Mount Pleasant is committed to crafting premium wines that speak of a time and place. Named James Halliday’s Winery of the Year in 2017, awarded six trophies at both the 2018 & 2019 Hunter Valley Wine Show, named NSW Wine of the Year in 2018 & 2019 and home to the Hunter Valley Winemaker of the Year, Adrian Sparks – Mount Pleasant is a must visit destination when exploring the Hunter Valley.

www.mountpleasantwines.com.au cellardoor@mpwines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Thursday to Monday 10AM–4PM GROUPS Welcome, bookings essential WINEMAKER Adrian Sparks WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Fiano RED WINES Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Shiraz Pinot Blend, Tempranillo Touriga AWARDS 2019 Hunter Valley Winemaker of the Year; 2018 & 2019 NSW Wine of the Year; Awarded six Trophies at the 2018 & 2019 Hunter Valley Wine Show PRICE RANGE $20 to $250 per/bottle

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A Top 100 Winery

www.meereapark.com.au info@meereapark.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM–5PM Closed Christmas Day & Good Friday GROUPS Groups of 10+ bookings essential WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Marsanne Roussanne RED WINES Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Shiraz Pinot, Cabernet Sauvignon SPECIALTIES & AWARDS Five red star ranking by James Halliday in 2021 Wine Companion. A Top 100 Winery. Over 500 wine show medals since 1991 WINEMAKER Rhys Eather PRICE RANGE From $25–$300

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 Hunter Wines of Outstanding Quality 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

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.

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Peterson House Cnr Broke Road & Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin PH 4998 7881

Peterson House is unique to the Hunter Valley, we specialise in premium sparkling wines made in the traditonal method. Our sparkling range consists of the easy drinking ‘Pink Blush’ through to world famous premium blends and museum vintages. Come and enjoy a relaxed seated sparkling wine tasting on our cellar door deck, our restaurant is open seven days a week for breakfast and lunch, the oyster bar is open on weekends.

www.petersonhouse.com.au bubbles@petersonhouse.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days, 9AM–5PM. Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day GROUPS Bookings required for seated tastings WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay RED WINES Merlot, Shiraz SPARKLING Gateway, Cuvée Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Semillon Pinot, Chardonnay Pinot, Blanc de Blanc, Pinot Chardonnay Meunier, Pink Blush, Illusion Rosé, Moscato, Merlot, Shiraz, Shiraz Voignier, Chambourcin, Cabernet Sauvignon, Botrytis, Rouge Lisse, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Brut Rosé FORTIFIED WINES Muscat, Shiraz WINEMAKER John Reid PRICE RANGE From $7–$70/bottle

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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 favourites 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 favourite dining venues in the Hunter Valley as it offers a sharing menu ideal and affordable for families and parties. Join the many

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

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Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant Cnr McDonalds & Broke Rd’s Pokolbin PH 4998 7051

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There is no better setting on earth than Australia’s oldest wine region for éRemo’s distinctive brand of modern Italian dining. Generous and warm, it epitomises our approach to food and wine - that they go spectacularly well together, and that they are better when shared. Dine a la carte or ‘Avido’, where our chefs choose a selection of dishes from the menu for you. Come and discover éRemo at Spicers Guesthouse. éRemo – Best Regional Italian Restaurant Award Winner.

eremo.com.au Phone 02 4022 1801 • Ekerts Rd, Pokolbin

Petersons Wines 2347 Broke Road, 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. Located in the heart of Pokolbin, Petersons on Broke Road is conveniently situated 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 our award winning wines. Please call 4998 7379 to book your tasting.

www.petersonswines.com.au brokeroad@petersonswines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM–5PM. Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day GROUPS Welcome with booking WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Viognier, Verdelho, Riesling, Vermentino, Marsanne, Fiano RED WINES Merlot, Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Durif, Petit Verdot SPARKLING Sparkling Chardonnay, Moscato, Sparkling Red FORTIFIED WINES Muscat, Fortified Verdelho SPECIALTIES Back Block Shiraz, Old Block Shiraz, Strikes Shiraz, Botrytis Semillon, Moscato WINEMAKER Gary Reed PRICE RANGE From $19.50–$120 p/b

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Pokolbin Cider House 2342 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 6722

Cider is made in many places all over the world, but at Pokolbin Cider House we make it right here, in the Hunter Valley Wineries. Traditionally a wine region, the Hunter Valley has influenced our Cider range to give it a wine-making twist. Over 8 years ago, we started dabbling with cider and produced our Classic Draught Cider, a pretty traditional Apple Cider. Since then our range has grown and so have the flavours, and we don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Join us at Pokolbin Cider House to try our winemaking slant on Cider and discover our styles.

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www.pokolbinciderhouse.com.au info@pokolbinciderhouse.com.au TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM–5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day GROUPS Please book for 6+ CIDERS Apple, Perry, Raspberry/ Cranberry, Vintage Cider, Passionfruit, Dark Grape PRICE RANGE Ciders from $6 by the glass; Cocktails $15 CIDER CLUB 24 bottles, 2x per year, plus other benefits. Contact us for more information

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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 and 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.

www.pokolbinestate.com.au sales@pokolbinestate.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Cellar Door 7 Days 9AM–5PM Olive Centre 7 Days 9AM–5PM (Olive Tasting 10AM–4PM) GROUPS 8+ Require a Booking 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–$80

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Restaurant Eighty Eight 88 Halls Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 4999 Our 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 Hunter Valley.

www.convent.com.au reservations@convent.com.au OPENING HOURS Breakfast 7 days 8AM–10AM; High Tea Sat & Sun 12PM–4PM GROUPS Bookings Essential PRICE GUIDE Breakfast from $35pp; High Tea from $48pp MAP REF:

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5 Star Winery – 2019 James Halliday Wine Companion

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Pokolbin Estate 298 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7524

Small Mouth Vodka HVG Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 0492 031 862 Change your mind about what vodkas, gins, and liqueurs can be. Small Mouth’s spirits are handcrafted from premium and organic ingredients, delivering a fresh and smooth finishing taste. Small Mouth Vodka is 100% Australian owned, made and operated, using only premium and organic ingredients including pure Australian rainwater.

www.smallmouthvodka.com info@smallmouthvodka.com WINE TASTING & SALES Open 7 days, 10AM–5PM GROUPS For 8+ please book PRICE GUIDE From $55 per bottle

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Tamburlaine Organic Wines 358 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 4200 Our friendly staff welcome you to our Hunter Valley Cellar Door for casual bar or structured tasting experiences in our private rooms (bookings essential for private tastings). Tamburlaine’s Contemporary Organic philosophy aims to produce organically certified wines of terroir while limiting environmental pollution and leaving the land in the best condition possible for the generations to follow. Our contemporary winemaking uses plant-based fining agents while also keeping sulphur additions to a minimum. With multiple trophies and medals won each year, it’s safe to say that great wine starts in the vineyard!

www.tamburlaine.com.au info@tamburlaine.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 9AM–5PM. Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Welcome with booking WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewürztraminer RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Chambourcin, Grenache SPARKLING Pinot Chardonnay FORTIFIED Liqueur Muscat, Framboise (Raspberry Liqueur) AWARDS ‘Best Other Red Variety’ and ‘Best Organic Wine’, Awards for individual wines can be viewed on our website WINEMAKER Mark Davidson & Shannon Burgess-Moore PRICE RANGE From $20–$40 p/b

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Tempus Two At Roche Estate, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Roads, Pokolbin PH 4993 3999

Tempus Two is a cutting-edge brand that does things ‘just a little bit differently’. We source fruit from Australia’s premium vineyard regions to craft wines with both substance and style. Our striking cellar door celebrates clean, refined elegance – pewter entry doors, reflected in our iconic labels, mark your arrival at our modern interpretation of the simple country shed. Plan your trip to our Cellar Door and book in for an experience or reserve your picnic basket. We also have an amazing wine club which offers a very stylish wine tasting room.

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www.tempustwo.com.au cellardoor@tempustwo.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM–5PM Closed Christmas Day & Good Friday GROUPS Please book, private experiences available WHITE WINES Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon RED WINES Shiraz and Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre WINEMAKER Andrew Duff AWARDS NSW Winery of the Year Trophy – 2019 Melbourne International Wine Competition; NSW Shiraz of the year – 2016 Copper Shiraz at the recent Melbourne International Wine Competition PRICE RANGE From $30–$700 p/b

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The Cellar Restaurant HVG Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7584 www.the-cellar-restaurant.com.au admin@the-cellar-restaurant.com.au OPENING HOURS Lunch Mon to Sat from 12PM; Dinner Mon–Sat from 6PM Open Sundays for special occasions and large functions – bookings essential Closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day GROUPS Welcome with booking DINING STYLE Modern Australian, Casual. Highchairs and Vegetarian options available PRICE GUIDE From $19–85

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VAMP By Lisa McGuigan 2198 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7854

The cellar door, Vamp by Lisa McGuigan, brings the elements of wine, fashion and art together with distinctive design features and various tasting areas to enjoy the winery’s three ranges. The collection includes her Silver, Platinum and exclusive pinnacle range Velvet. Featuring some of Lisa’s favourite quotes and most meaningful things, Vamp is a unique new addition to the Hunter Valley. There are four semi-private tasting rooms, each partitioned by chainmail hanging screens, and a large group tasting room that runs the length of the back half of the building.

www.lisamcguiganwines.com vamp@lisamcguiganwines.com Facebook & Instagram @lisamcguiganwines WINE TASTING & SALES Thurs to Mon from 11AM; Tues to Wed by Appointment Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Good Friday GROUPS Bookings Essential WHITE WINES Gruner Vetliner, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay RED WINES Pinot Noir, Shiraz PINK WINES Rosé SPARKLING Coming Soon DESSERT WINE Botrytis Semillon WINEMAKER Lisa McGuigan PRICE RANGE From $25–$65

“I want visitors to walk away from Vamp without having to think too much about what just happened and to just feel it,” Lisa says. So, come and visit, settle back, relax, and make Vamp your home.

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Centrally located in the heart of Pokolbin, just a short stroll from the world-class Hunter Valley Gardens and within easy access to wineries and golf clubs, The Cellar Restaurant offers modern contemporary inspired cuisine focussing on flavours and textures in elegant yet relaxed surroundings. Our wisteria-surrounded courtyard with large umbrellas is perfect for Summer, while the picturesque indoor gardens intermingled with a huge fireplace is ideal for Winter dining – the ultimate spot for celebrations. Offering a range of options, our friendly team is here to ensure your next event will be one to remember.

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LOCAL FLAVOURS AND LOCAL VIBES AT

Cypress Lakes

It’s known internationally as Australia’s best golf hotel, but it’s not just the fairways and greens of the championship course that are making an impression on visitors to Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort. WORDS Di von Essen In the past two years, the resort has undergone a significant refurbishment program, which has seen millions of dollars poured into upgrading its villa accommodation, championship golf course, conference and events facilities and common areas. A renewed focus on the resort’s hospitality offerings has also seen Oaks Cypress Lakes up the ante on dining, with hotel guests, golfers, visitors and locals enjoying the ambience and dedication to casual dining that is the Cypress Lakes Bistro & Bar. Known for its relaxed and casual dining, Cypress Lakes Bistro & Bar provides diners with a bright, fun and entertaining spot to catch up with family and friends. This commitment to making the place a local favourite inspired the venue’s tagline, ‘Where Locals Meet.’ 54 | ISSUE #17 2021

WHERE LOCALS MEET! “We thoroughly believe in our tagline,” said Alok Kukreti, Director of Food and Beverage for Oaks Resorts throughout regional NSW. “We believe that we are the neighbourhood joint where we welcome our neighbours – from our local community to anyone who is visiting the Hunter Valley – we want them to come in and have a great experience,” he said. In addition to casual dining, the Bistro & Bar offers a social bar setting where golf members, resort guests and locals can celebrate long afternoons on the golf course or wind-down after work. Open daily from noon to 9pm, the all-day bistro menu is full of comfort food favourites, from burgers and sandwiches (you can’t go past the Cypress Club!) to the wholesome grilled lamb rump or classic chicken schnitzel. Late 2021 will see the newly reimagined, premiere dining experience, the Oak & Vine, open its doors to a stunning and intimate dining venue committed to place, respectful of history and dedicated to local producers. Set to offer an enticing menu that is perfectly paired with some of the best wines in the region, a night at the Oak & Vine is sure to be a quintessential Hunter Valley experience. “The new Oak & Vine menu will change seasonally but will always have a firm focus on local produce and how that is best paired with some of the award-winning wines our region has on offer,” said Alok. “The menu will be simple, refined and designed to complement regional wines. Perfect!” Whether it be a casual meal at the Bistro & Bar or an inspired evening at the Oak & Vine, there’s a feeling of calmness and relaxation that descends upon you once you arrive at Cypress Lakes that only adds to each of the unique dining experiences. Find more on page 33.

BRINGING THE BEST OF THE HUNTER TO HOTEL GUESTS Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort guests can now taste premium award-winning Hunter Valley wines from the comfort of the hotel lounge with the recently installed Wine Emotion Wine Tasting Machine. Alok Kukreti, the Director of Food and Beverage for Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites, said the hotel is one of the first locations in the Hunter to install the Wine Emotion machine –

an interactive wine-dispensing system that allows hotel guests to help themselves and enjoy some of the best wine in the Hunter Valley at their leisure in the comfort of the hotel lounge. "It allows the guest to get a premium glass of Hunter Valley wine that wouldn't normally be available (by the glass)," said Alok. Alok said that the option of three different pour sizes (25ml, 60ml and 120ml) allows for great flexibility and for guests to try a number of the wines in the range before deciding on what they love. "It's a nice opportunity for us to offer a more upscale wine by the glass," Alok said. "The Wine Emotion machine allows you to taste at your leisure, and features eight different premium wines from the best Hunter Valley winemakers – putting the very best from the region on display." Currently on tasting is the Mount Pleasant Rosehill Shiraz, Mount Pleasant Pinot Noir, Mount Pleasant Henry Shiraz, Mount Pleasant Chardonnay, Mount Pleasant Sauvignon Blanc, Mount Pleasant Isabelle Rose, Mount Pleasant Lovedale Semillon and Mount Pleasant Maurice O'Shea Shiraz. "It is effortless to use and fully automated. You can purchase the vouchers at the reception and pay via card, cash or room charge. You then scan the bar code from the voucher and select the wines you want to taste," said Alok. "When you try it, you will want to take it home with you!"

Enjoy the very best local produce at the stunning Cypress Lakes Bistro & Bar, located in the picturesque Hunter Valley. OPEN DAILY FROM 12PM TO 9PM

Discover More www.oakshotels.com

OAKS CYPRESS LAKES RESORT 15 Thompsons Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320 | oakshotels.com

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Lovedale... The Heart of the Hunter Valley. DESTINATION Adina Vineyard

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Allandale Winery

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The name Lovedale combines the name of one of the early families of the district, the Loves, with the memory of Yorkshire's dales in England, and settlement in the area dates back to the early 1800s when there were significant land grants along Black Creek.

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Emma's Cottage Vineyard

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Gartelmann Wines

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Lucy's Run Wines

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Pierre's Wines

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Redsalt Restaurant – Crowne Plaza HV

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Stomp! Wines Sydney Brewery Hunter Valley

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Tatler Wines

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The Deck Café

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The Hunter Providore - Adina Vineyard

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The Lovedale Bar - Crowne Plaza

Wandin

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This area was particularly suitable for vineyards, and the history of Lovedale as a major wine-producing area can be dated to the time of settlement when local wheat and general produce farmers turned their hands to grape growing. Lovedale is renowned for its boutique wineries and restaurants and the warmth and friendliness of the people who call the area home and host several events throughout the year, including the signature Lovedale Long Lunch held in May each year for over 25 years. In Lovedale, you will find that the cellar doors are smaller and more boutiquestyled, so you can meet the owners and enjoy a more personalised experience. Lovedale is a place you can stay and while the hours away. But beware, you may not want to leave. 56 | LOVEDALE

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Lovedale, often referred to as the “Heart of the Hunter,” is located just east of Pokolbin. The beautiful region is renowned not only for its family-owned and operated cellar doors and awardwinning wines but also for its community spirit and the entire lifestyle that has sprung up around it.

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Crowne Plaza The Lovedale Bar, Sydney Brewery HV Redsalt Restaurant

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Adina Vineyard The Hunter Providore Binnorie Dairy

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Adina Vineyard 492 Lovedale Road, Lovedale PH 4930 7473 www.adinavineyard.com.au inquiries@adinavineyard.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM–5PM GROUPS Bookings essential WHITE WINES Semillon, Pinot Grigio, Verdelho, Chardonnay RED WINES 2017 Reserve Shiraz, Cabernet blends, Sangiovese, Tempranillo SPARKLING Frizzante Bianco, Rosato, Traditional Method Sparkling Chardonnay/ Pinot Noir, Flora Sparkling Shiraz FORTIFIED Muscat, Botrytis Semillon WINEMAKER Dan Binet

Come on in! Available for tasting is our Hunter Providore food range: table olives, olive oils, tapenades, dressings and condiments. Join our Wine Club and get a discount on accommodation, wine, and food products. For more information visit our website.

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Allandale Winery 132 Lovedale Road, Lovedale PH 4990 4526 With over 40 years of winemaking, Allandale Winery boasts a well-established 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. A visit to Allandale Winery is a must for anyone staying in the Hunter Valley. Classic Hunter Valley varieties produced on-site 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. Allandale can almost always accommodate walk-ins of couples and small groups at short notice but to be sure a table is waiting for you feel free to phone ahead. Guests without a reservation will be seated on a first come, firstserved basis.

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www.allandalewinery.com.au wines@allandalewinery.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Mon to Sat 9AM–5PM; Sun 10AM–5PM Wine tastings available 7 days a week Closed Christmas Day BOOKINGS Essential for groups of 8 people+. All cellar door tastings incur a $5 fee pp refundable on purchase of any wine WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Verdelho RED WINES Shiraz, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre (GSM) SPARKLING Sparkling Gewürztraminer, Blanc et Noir WINEMAKERS Bill Sneddon & Alex Woods PRICE RANGE From $20–$60/pb

WINERY AND VINEYARDS

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To wine-taste is to experience different varietals and the much loved; we have both. Do you like an aged Semillon? We have one in the cellar door. Our 2013 La Belle Helene Semillon has morphed from the dry, crisp character of youth into the honeyed more nutty flavours of age. Uncommon to the valley are the varietals of Cabernet Franc, Tempranillo and Sangiovese, we grow and produce all three. New to the cellar door is our 2017 Thomas Charles Reserve Shiraz, and as Kate says “it’s a cracker”.

Binnorie Dairy 25 Lodge Road, Lovedale PH 4998 6660 www.binnorie.com.au info@binnorie.com.au OPENING HOURS Cheeseroom & Retail 10AM–5PM 7 Days, Cheese Tasting Complimentary Café 11AM–3PM Saturdays and Sundays Walk-ins welcome DINING STYLE Casual CHEESE VARIETIES Labna, Marinated Feta, Brie, Washed Rind, Buche de Chevre, Duetto SPECIALTIES Award Winning Cow and Goat Cheeses Binnorie Dairy proudly makes cheese onsite in the Lower Hunter. Peer through the window mid week and watch the Cheesemakers do what they do best! Award winning Cow and Goat Cheeses are available! We offer complimentary Cheese tasting from 10am–5pm 7 days per week. A limited Café menu is available from 11am– 3pm Saturday and Sunday. All other times feel free to purchase items and enjoy some cheese and crackers with a glass or bottle of local wine, or perhaps house made Ricotta Cheesecake and Tiramisu with Coffee and Tea.

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De Bortoli Wines 532 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin PH 4993 8800 • Home of Noble One dessert wine • Family owned since 1928 • Our tasting list offers a wide variety including Chardonnay, Shiraz, Moscatos, Fortifieds, Dessert Wines, Sparklings and more! Local Artisan Craft Markets held every Saturday – weather pending.

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

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Emma’s Cottage 438 Wilderness Road, Lovedale PH 4998 7734 Hidden behind the vines is the cellar door, garden and cottages. Enjoy a personal, friendly and informative tasting of the lovely wines made for us by renowned Hunter Valley winemakers or sit in our gallery or on the terrace and enjoy a glass of wine.

www.emmascottage.com.au info@emmascottage.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Friday 12PM–4PM; Saturday 10AM–5PM; Sunday 10AM–3PM GROUPS 8+ Please Book

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Gartelmann Wines 701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale PH 4930 7113 www.gartelmann.com.au cellardoor@gartelmann.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days; Mon to Fri 9AM–5PM, Sat 10AM– 5PM, Sun and Pub Hols 10AM–4PM GROUPS Small Groups only (up to 12 people) THE DECK CAFÉ OPEN 7 DAYS Mon to Fri 8.30AM–3PM Sat to Sun 8AM–3.30PM WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Verdelho RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot SPARKLING Chardonnay, Shiraz, Moscato FORTIFIED Muscat, Vintage Port AWARDS Over 300 medals and 14 Trophies

Gartelmann Wines is a boutique cellar door and wine producer, owned by Chef Matt Dillow and based in the idyllic Hunter Valley. Gartelmann Wines specialise in fine hand-crafted wines using grapes sourced from some of our most famous wine regions. With the help of like-minded, specialist winemakers and growers, Gartelmann has earned a reputation for producing high quality award winning wines. Providing a wide variety of styles ranging from classic Hunter Valley

Semillon, Verdelho and Shiraz, to alternative varietals such as Petit Verdot and also something for the sweet lovers. Gartelmann Wines Cellar Door is open 7 days for sales and tastings and has become a place ‘not to be missed’ in the Lovedale area.

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Lovedale Smokehouse & Café 64 Majors Lane, Lovedale PH 4930 7832

Lovedale Smokehouse Gourmet Pantry

Lovedale Smokehouse Café

Creators and providores of artisanal charcuterie including grapevine smoked trout, salmon, mussels, octopus, cheese, beef, bacon, ham, chicken, a variety of sausages and much more. We 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, condiments, wood chips, picnic supplies and local artwork.

Located on a beautiful 100 acre vineyard, our menu showcases our house-made smoked produce, from small batch charcuterie and smoked seafood in our Deli Selections Menus to Low n Slow Barbecue such as ribs, brisket and wings. We also feature favourites such as mouth watering burgers, salads and more. We are fully licensed, offering a large range of craft beer, ciders, spirits, HV wines and barista made coffee. Enjoy a relaxed lunch in our air-conditioned dining room or in our stunning courtyard set amongst lush gardens and water fountains with vineyard views.

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www.majorslane.com Bookings@majorslane.com OPENING HOURS Gourmet Pantry Thurs to Mon 11AM–4PM Café Lunch Thurs to Mon 11AM–4PM (Kitchen closes 3PM) DINING STYLE Casual ‘permanent food truck’ vibe COOKING CLASSES Thai, Vietnamese, Mexican and USA BBQ/Smoking Cooking Classes. View website for details. SPECIALTIES Showcasing smoked local produce and charcuterie from our on-site smokehouse; fully licensed

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Voted one of the Top 10 Cellar Doors to visit in the Hunter Valley

Lucy’s Run Wines 1274 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale PH 0409 994 030 Welcome to Lucy’s Run, a 9 acre boutique vineyard producing award-winning wines from our Verdelho, Merlot and Shiraz vines. We’re also the home of Woof Woof wines, created to support a number of Aussie animal rescue charities. When you’re next in Hunter wine country, visit our cellar shed (yes, shed!) and taste wines created by three of the Hunter’s best-known winemakers, plus you’ll also enjoy our olive oil, handmade spice blends, and caramelised balsamic vinegar.

www.lucysrunwines.com.au info@lucysrunwines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Open 10AM–5PM Fri, Sat, Sun & most public holidays. Closed Christmas, Boxing, New Year’s & ANZAC Days. Bookings recommended – please call to arrange PRICE RANGE $25–$90

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Pierre’s Wines 82 Elderslie Road, Branxton PH 0417 433 193 www.pierreswines.com.au info@pierreswines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 10AM–6PM Friday to Sunday & Pub Hols; Monday to Thursday by Appointment GROUPS Bookings recommended for 4+

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At Pierre’s Wines we produce sparkling wines exclusively produced by the Méthode Traditionelle. Our wines are vintage wines produced from Sémillon, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes grown in the best sparkling grape regions of NSW. Our wines are released only when we consider them to be sufficiently developed – much later than the mandatory length of time. Visit us to experience the true potential of Australian sparkling wine.

Redsalt Restaurant Crowne Plaza, 430 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale PH 4991 0944 Soak up spectacular views when dining for breakfast or dinner at Redsalt Restaurant. Wake to a delicious breakfast – the best in the region. With a range of hot and cold dishes and barista brewed coffee – there’s truly no better way to start your morning. Treat your tastebuds to gastronomic delights of locally sourced produce that embodies the true spirit of the Hunter region with our carefully curated dinner menu. We can also cater to any dietary requirements.

www.crowneplazahuntervalley.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 Days Breakfast 6.30AM–10AM Dinner – Bookings Essential GROUPS Welcome DINING STYLE Fine Dining. PRICE RANGE From $30–$85

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Stomp! Wines 504 Wilderness Road, Lovedale PH 0409 774 280 Visitors to Stomp! are rewarded with a friendly, relaxed tasting of their two brands – Stomp! and Pssst ‘n’ Broke. Winemaking couple Michael and Meredith share their passion for crafting renowned Hunter Valley classics as well as some rarer and quirkier wines such as Sparkling Verdelho and Fiano.

www.stompwines.com.au meredith@stompwines.com.au TASTING & SALES Thurs to Mon 10AM– 5PM, closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Welcome WINE VARIETIES Sparkling, White, Pink, Red and Fortified Wines available for tasting MAP REF:

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Tatler Wines is a must visit destination. Tatler is a boutique Australian family-owned and operated winery in the heart of Lovedale. With a hands-on approach, their aim is to create high quality, small batch wine that is made on site and designed to bring people together. Tatler is a stunning destination in the Hunter with a mission to bring the community together, not only when visiting their cellar door, but on all occasions. It’s important to them that all interactions, experiences and products are grounded in quality.

www.tatlerwines.com sales@tatlerwines.com WINE TASTING & SALES Wed & Thurs 11AM–4PM; Fri 11AM–5PM; Sat 10AM–5PM; SUN 10AM–4PM THE BRUNCH SOCIETY Sat & Sun 8AM–4PM GROUPS Walk ins of groups under 6 only, groups of up to 30 welcome WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Botrytis Semillon RED WINES Rosé, Merlot, Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Muscat, Pinot Shiraz & Cabernet, Shiraz Merlot Blend SPARKLING Frizzante Semillon, Frizzante Chardonnay Pinot Noir SPECIALTIES Sparkling Semillon, Nigel’s Semillon, Archie’s Shiraz, McLaren Vale Shiraz, Redgiment Shiraz WINEMAKER Daniel Binet PRICE RANGE From $25–$300 p/b Unwind on their large lawn, try their large range of wine, eat delicious food at the restaurant, play some lawn games and take in the stunning views of the Brokenback mountain range, especially at sunset.

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The Deck Café 701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale PH 4930 9007 www.deckcafelovedale.com.au bookings@deckcafelovedale.com.au OPENING HOURS Breakfast and Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Friday & Saturday Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day DINING STYLE Casual Café, Tapas Menu

Take time to taste the delights of The Deck Café Start your day with an extensive breakfast menu or long lunch the day away with a Mediterranean inspired Tapas Menu that’s worth savouring well into the afternoon. The café is situated on the deck overlooking the dam in young forest bushland. It is an experience to remember with local chefs and staff cooking and serving cafe favourites with a Hunter Valley fine-dining twist complemented by Gartelmann wines and a generous range of beverages and Premium Vittoria Coffee.

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Tatler Wines 477 Lovedale Road, Lovedale PH 4930 9139

EXPERIENCE

THE HUNTER VALLEY AT ITS BEST

• REDSALT RESTAURANT •

• MEETING AND EVENTS •

Enjoy signature dining at Australian Good Food Guide award-winning Redsalt Restaurant, inspired by the farm gate to plate philosophy.

Premium facilities and service for all of your meeting and event needs.

• THE LOVEDALE BAR • Indulge in wine, beer and craft cider while enjoying bistro-styled food.

• VISTA LOUNGE • Seasonal cocktails, whiskies and selection of spirits by the fireplace.

• HUNTER VALLEY GOLF • Perfect your swing with Hunter Valley Golf - a scenic 18-hole championship course which offers premium facilities, service and unparalleled natural beauty.

• UBIKA DAY SPA • Relax and indulge in a sanctuary amongst the vines. Our experienced beauty therapists will nourish your body and leave you with a healthy, radiant glow.

CROWNE PLAZA HUNTER VALLEY 430 WINE COUNTRY DRIVE, LOVEDALE CROWNEPLAZAHUNTERVALLEY.COM.AU | 02 4991 0000 | SWITCH.HUNTER@IHG.COM

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The Lovedale Bar Crowne Plaza, 430 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale PH 4991 0947 www.crowneplazahuntervalley.com.au OPENING HOURS All day dining 7 days from 11AM GROUPS Bookings are for groups of 10+ only. Smaller groups any time DINING STYLE Casual, bistro style. High chairs and vegetarian options available PRICE RANGE From $9–$38 MAP REF:

Wandin 12 Wilderness Road, Lovedale PH 4930 9888 Tasting our wines is just the beginning. Wandin’s Hunter Valley Cellar Door is where you’ll spend an hour, or an afternoon, with people whose intimate knowledge and love of wine is as effervescent as their passion for sharing it. You don’t need to be a connoisseur. You’re among friends. Wandin Kitchen is a ‘must’ from breakfast, a celebratory lunch, or intimate dinner, you can choose from our seasonal lunch menu, a la carte dinner or try it all in our delicious 5-course chef’s tasting menu (dinner only). Enjoy a hand picked selection of local produce and estate grown wine at Wandin Kitchen. All dishes are expertly designed and lovingly prepared by our Head Chef John Rutherford and his team. Wandin is the perfect place for events – we can host everything from weddings to corporate events, celebratory lunch or dinners and of course cricket games in front of our stunning cricket pavilion! Our most recent venue inclusion is the retro Wine Cellar room, perfect for a group wanting privacy up to 50 pax. Please enquire with us for more information.

www.wandin.com.au cellardoor@wandin.com.au kitchen@wandin.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days, 10AM–5PM WANDIN KITCHEN Lunch Wednesday to Sunday from 12PM Dinner Friday and Saturday from 6PM Brunch Sunday only from 8:30AM GROUPS Welcome with bookings Wandin Cellar available for private groups of 20–50 WINEMAKER Liz Silkman

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IT’S ALWAYS A GOOD TIME FOR A PADDLE. At multi-award winning Sydney Brewery Hunter Valley located at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley. 430 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale www.sydneybrewery.com

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Whether you’re looking for a great spot for a casual lunch, a refreshing drink after work or somewhere to relax after a tough round of golf, Lovedale Bar is the perfect spot. Built around the operation of the Sydney Brewery Hunter Valley, visitors can sit back and watch our brewers at work while they indulge in some onsite brewed craft beers and ciders, and amazing bistro-styled food.

WHITES

Top Drops MCLEISH ESTATE WINES

2009 Cellar Reserve Semillon – RRP $ 125

GOLD at the 2019 International Wine Challenge. The McLeish Cellar Reserve is produced using hand-harvested fruit from the single vineyard planted in 1985. The pedigree of the estate has seen over fifty Trophies awarded to the McLeish Semillon. This wine is rated 96/100 in the Australian Wine Companion and has received 6 Trophies and 17 Gold medals. TASTING The 2009 Cellar Reserve Semillon displays a light gold with olive green tints and beguiles with scents of jasmine, lemon zest and lanolin. Vibrant grapefruit flavour zips in on the front of the palate and honeydew melon, sherbet and leatherwood honey and toast integrate on the middle palate. The finish brings in mineral-edged acid. FOOD MATCH Myrtle-crusted salmon fillets with lemon-buttered papardelle. CELLARING Drink now to 2026.

VAMP BY LISA MCGUIGAN Claudius Vegan Chardonnay Platinum Collection – RRP $35

Get in the zone with this vegan Chardonnay. Enjoy bold flavours of white peach, subtle lemon and melon. The wine has also been infused with ecofriendly hemp seeds to give it a nutty finish and a velvety mouth feel. Cold pressed to tank, enjoy the luminescent golden hue with a slight tint of green. The wine is free from animal products and is fined with vegetable protein extracted from potatoes. TASTING Nutty finish with a velvety mouth feel that is attributed to the hemp seeds. FOOD MATCH Delicious with pork belly. CELLARING Cellar for 3–5 years.

Celebrating 36 Years of Excellence in Wine TROPHY Best Light Bodied White Wine 2018 Sydney International Wine Competition TROPHY Best Medium Bodied White Wine 2018 Sydney International Wine Competition TROPHY Best White Wine of Show 2018 Sydney International Wine Competition TROPHY Runner up to Best Wine of Competition 2018 Sydney International Wine Competition TROPHY World’s Best Semillon 2012, 2013, & 2016 London International Wine Challenge

462 DeBeyers Road Pokolbin | Cellar Door 10am to 5pm daily 02 4998 7754 | info@mcleishestatewines.com.au | www.mcleishestatewines.com.au 66 | ISSUE #17 2021

WHITES

Top Drops TAMBURLAINE ORGANIC WINES Wine Lovers 2020 Pinot Gris – RRP $24 ($16/dozen)

Our Contemporary Organic philosophy aims to produce wines of terroir while limiting environmental pollution and leaving the land in the best condition possible for the generations to follow. Our contemporary winemaking utilises plant-based fining agents while also keeping sulphur additions to a minimum. TASTING This cool climate, high altitude wine has aromas of honeysuckle and spice with fresh, bright Granny Smith apple and crisp green pear on the palate. FOOD MATCH Enjoy with fresh seafood platters, spicy dishes and some good friends. CELLARING Up to 5+ years, keep away from strong light, at a cool constant temperature.

MISTLETOE WINES 2019 Reserve Semillon – RRP $25

Our flagship Semillon. Excellent fruit, hand-harvested, whole bunch pressed followed by extended cold fermentation with 4 months on lees post-fermentation. Drinking beautifully now. James Halliday Top 100 wine for 2020 with 95 point rating. TASTING Intense flavours of lemongrass and citrus are balanced by crisp acidity and great palate length. Ideal with fresh oysters. Can be cellared with confidence to 2025 and beyond. FOOD MATCH Pasta carbonara or fresh seafood. CELLARING Drink now to 2030.

Cellar Door

Open 7 days 9am to 5pm 358 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

Lorem ipsum Lorem ipsum Organic & Vegan wines

Vineyard tours | Weddings & functions Call the winery on 1800 659 956 or enquire on our website

www.tamburlaine.com.au

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REDS

Top Drops SAVANNAH ESTATE 2018 Hunter Valley Premium Shiraz – RRP $70 (Members $63)

Savannah Estate Wines are produced from small select parcels of premium fruit grown in renowned viticulture regions throughout Australia. This Hunter Valley Premium Shiraz is soft, dry and long in true Hunter Shiraz style. TASTING Upfront fruit flavours are of red fruits such as cranberry, alpine strawberry and spicy plum. The mid palate – gamey with hints of black pepper, savoury spice and charred meat. FOOD MATCH Delicious with steak and kidney pie. CELLARING Now–8 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. COVID 19 REGULATIONS WINETASTING BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL CALL 1800 055 080

771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin PH 1800 055 080 OPEN 10AM - 5PM 68 | ISSUE #17 2021

TATLER WINES 2017 Archies Shiraz – RRP $36

Tatler is a family-owned Hunter Valley winery, cultivating quality wine that captures the spirit of Lovedale. With a hands-on approach, our wine is made on site. Designed to bring people together, we produce a varied portfolio of bubbles, whites, reds and sweets. TASTING This classic Hunter Shiraz, with generous sweet mid palate fruit, was aged for 15 months in French and American oak barrels prior to bottling. Deep ruby red in colour, with a nose of dark berry fruits and well integrated savoury oak. FOOD MATCH Would suit roast lamb or a cheeseboard. CELLARING 5–10 years.

REDS

Top Drops HUNGERFORD HILL Heavy Metal Shiraz Cabernet 2018 – RRP $55 One of the most iconic wines that Hungerford Hill produces, our interpretation of the good old Australian red blend has become an instant classic. TASTING Deep red in colour, a heightened aroma of mocha coffee and spicy dark fruits with a creamy vanillan oak background note. The palate is both powerful and voluminous with layers of unravelling flavour of plumb and blueberry fruits balanced with very fine and structured tannins that linger. FOOD MATCH Pair with osso bucco. This traditional Italian dish requires a powerful wine to match its rich flavours and the Heavy Metal Shiraz will bring out the best in the braised veal. CELLARING Drink now or drink by 2030.

ERNEST HILL WINES 2017 William Henry Shiraz – RRP $75

Our top of the line Hunter Valley Shiraz, the William Henry has won numerous awards both nationally and internationally. Only made in exceptional vintages the 2017 vintage was awarded 95 points by James Halliday. TASTING Generous flavours of blackberry and mulberry, with a touch of white pepper spice and harmoniously blended with the toasty vanillian flavours from 16 months maturation in French oak barrels. Smooth tannins round out a delicious wine. FOOD MATCH A wine for a special occasion. Great with your roast meats, tasty casseroles, tomato based pasta dishes, spicy Tapas dishes. CELLARING Cellar up to 15 years with appropriate cellaring conditions.

Book online @ www.lisamcguiganwines.com Step inside the Hunter Valley’s newest destination

2198 Broke Road, Pokolbin 2320 | vamp@lisamcguiganwines.com.au | www.lisamcguiganwines.com ISSUE #17 2021 | 69

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 – The Hunter's premium red variety and the most widely planted grape variety in Australia. The Shiraz grape is said to originate from the Rhone wine-growing area of France but is now grown throughout the world and used primarily to produce powerful red wines which can be varietal or blended. The typical young Hunter Valley Shiraz is a medium bodied wine showing red and dark berries, spices and a great deal of tannin. However, its real character is seen in wines with longevity. With age, these wines become far more complex, full bodied, yet smooth and richly flavoured with earthy tones. PINOT NOIR – Described as "the most romantic of wines'' due to its sensuous and gratifying perfume, Pinot Noir tends to be 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 black berry. While widely considered to produce some of the finest wines in the world, it is also highly reflective of its terroir, with different wine growing regions often producing quite 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. 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. 70 | ISSUE #17 2021

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 and herby notes. 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. 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 tea-like flavours. Australian Sangiovese wines tend to be a little more fruity, riper flavours and higher alcohol.

TYPICAL FOOD MATCHES FOR RED WINES LIGHTER BODIED REDS

Finer styles go great with gamey, earthy dishes such as duck. The higher the acidity, the spicier and richer the dishes can be. Light Rosé, Pinot Noir, Grenache/Blends

MEDIUM-BODIED REDS

Moderate tannins go with slow cooked styles of meats, pastas, tapas and Mediterranean. Hunter Valley Shiraz, Tempranillo, Merlot, Chambourcin, Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauv, Nebbiolo

FULL-BODIED REDS

Robust wines are ideal with hard cheeses and fattier meats. Malbec, Cabernet, Shiraz

Mount View/Nulkaba... The Picturesque and Peaceful Corner of the Valley. DESTINATION

Bistro Molines

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Briar Ridge Foghorn Brewery

Saddler's Creek

Possibly one of the best kept secrets in the Hunter Valley, Mount View can be found at the southern border of Pokolbin between Nulkaba and Wollombi, nestled amongst the lush green surrounds of the Brokenback Range. With its winding country roads and panoramic views, Mount View offers some of the most outstanding scenery in the Hunter Valley.

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Travel along Wine Country Drive through Nulkaba, then weave your way around the terraced vineyards, and picturesque finedining restaurants and breathtaking views of Mount View to discover hilltop cellar doors and restaurants with panoramic views (such as those from Mount Views Bistro Molines on our cover). Mount View provides several options to wine and dine, with respected restaurants and a handful of impressive and highly acclaimed boutique wineries that seem to appear out of nowhere. All offer a relaxed and idyllic wine tasting experience and superbly welcoming hospitality. Family-owned boutique vineyards produce a range of varieties such as Semillon, Shiraz, Verdelho and Chardonnay, and some increasingly popular Mediterranean treats like Barbera, Fiano, Albarino, Tempranillo, and Vermentino. A favourite spot for photographers, Mount View's stunning surrounds have provided the perfect backdrop for many couples. The peaceful ambience will have you feeling like you are a million miles away! 72 | MOUNT VIEW/ NULKABA

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MAP AND FEATURED DESTINATIONS

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Map Legend Winery/ Cellar Door Restaurant/ Café Providore/ Gourmet Produce Distillery Beer/Cider/Bar

YOU ARE HERE

To Pokolbin

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Bistro Molines 749 Mount View Road, Mount View PH 4990 9553 www.bistromolines.com.au dine@bistromolines.com.au OPENING HOURS LUNCH Thurs to Mon 12PM–3PM DINNER Sat 7PM–9PM; Open Friday dinner by special arrangement Open midweek for group bookings by special arrangement DINING STYLE French Provençal style fine dining; Unique and individually customised wedding receptions; Alfresco dining available SPECIALTIES & AWARDS Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide Chefs Hat 2010–2020 PRICE GUIDE 2 course min $85 pp or 3 course min $105 pp

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Briar Ridge 593 Mount View Road, Mount View PH 4990 3670

5-Star James Halliday Rating Winner of the 2020 NSW Wine Awards Governor’s Trophy ‘Best in Show’ and the 2020 NSW Wine Awards ‘Best Dry White in Show’ for the 2018 Dairy Hill Semillon Award winning wines, breath-taking mountain scenery and tranquil gardens – the very best of the Hunter is to be found at Briar Ridge vineyard. Enviably picturesque, the moment you step onto Briar Ridge soil you’re transported. With our serene surrounds, charming award-winning cellar

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door, and friendly staff; a trip to Briar Ridge Vineyard should be top of your Hunter Valley must-visit list. Offering both classic and alternative wine varietals – best paired with our renowned cheese and antipasto platters – and enjoyed either in our cellar door tasting bar, upon our wine deck, or while away the day in our wine garden lounges – with wine in hand, naturally!

www.briarridge.com.au cellardoor@briarridge.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM–5PM; Cheese & Antipasto plates until 4PM Closed Christmas & New Years Day GROUPS Welcome by appointment MYSTERY VINEYARD EXPERIENCE 11AM & 2PM Fri–Sun, bookings essential WHITE WINES Moscato, Semillon, Fumé, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Fiano, Albarino, Gruner Veltliner, Pinot Gris RED WINES Barbera, Rosé, Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Red Blends SPARKLING Chardonnay Pinot Noir FORTIFIED WINE Liqueur Muscat AWARDS Gourmet Traveller WINE ‘Best Tasting Experience: Hunter Valley’; 5-star Winery, Halliday Wine Companion WINEMAKERS Alex Beckett, Gwyn Olsen

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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 2020, Bistro Molines combines the finest food with European influenced serenity.

Kelman Vineyard 2 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin PH 4991 5456 Rated 4 ½ stars in the 2021 James Halliday Wine Companion Kelman is a well established, award winning boutique winery nestled in a quiet corner of Pokolbin at the gateway to Mt View. The Kelman philosophy is to produce quality wines in classic styles and to concentrate on what the fruit can deliver each year according to the soil and climate. Minimum intervention by the winemaker guarantees a truly local product. Enjoy a tasting of our award winning wines at the cellar door.

www.kelmanvineyard.com.au cellardoor@kelmanvineyard.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Saturday & Sunday 10AM–4PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Bookings required in advance for the weekend and by arrangement at other times. Avail. for groups from 6–18 people. Tasting experiences start at $10 pp. Please book by phone or email – Phone 0492 993 282 BOUTIQUE HUNTER WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Chard/Sem, Rosé, Tempranillo and Shiraz, Blanc de Blancs, Sparkling Moscato, Vin de Vie Fortified Muscat PRICE RANGE From $24 Estate Range, from $29 Premium Range AWARDS Trophy and Gold medal – 2017 Chairman’s Reserve Shiraz – HV Boutique Winemakers Show

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

www.petersonswines.com.au sales@petersonswines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days Mon to Sat 9AM–5PM; Sun 10AM–5PM Closed Christmas, Boxing & New Years Days GROUPS Welcome with booking WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Viognier, Verdelho, Riesling, Vermentino, Marsanne, Fiano RED WINES Merlot, Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Durif, Petit Verdot SPARKLING Sparkling Chardonnay, Moscato, Sparkling Red FORTIFIED WINES Fortified Verdelho, Muscat SPECIALTIES Back Block Shiraz, Old Block Shiraz, Strikes Shiraz, Botrytis Semillon, Moscato WINEMAKER Gary Reed PRICE RANGE From $19.50–$100 p/b

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Saddler’s Creek Wines 15 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin PH 4991 1770 A wine experience like no other! Visit our Pokolbin Cellar Door to experience a premium wine tasting experience, enjoy a wine and food matching journey or attend our regular themed masterclass to enhance your wine understanding and knowledge. Our new food van offers a seasonal menu curated to enhance our wine flights. ‘Weekends at Saddler’s’ gives visitors an opportunity to Wine and Chill in the picturesque wine garden every Friday, Saturday and Sunday while enjoying local live music and delicious food to complement your wine tasting experiences. Relax in our wine garden and beautiful picnic grounds offering picnic tables, BBQ facilities and a fire pit that is perfect for everyone including your furry four legged friend. Saddler’s Creek Wines is a family-owned 5 Star winery with the philosophy of consistently selecting small-batch parcels of the highest quality fruit to craft premium quality, elegant, well balanced and fruit-driven wines. Open 7 days, the team at Saddler’s look forward to welcoming you soon!

www.saddlerscreek.com winery@saddlerscreek.com WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days, 10AM–5PM GROUPS Bookings essential for 6+ WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Tempranillo DESSERT Botrytis and Muscat SPECIALTY Bluegrass Collection, Alessandro Reserve, Ryan’s Reserve AWARDS 5 Stars, Wine of the Year, Wine of the year Finalist WineState Magazine WINEMAKER Brett Woodward PRICE RANGE From $26–$75/ bottle

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From grain to glass under one roof. That’s the way it’s done at Foghorn Hunter Brewery.

And while our award-winning brewers might be purists at heart, that doesn’t stop them from wowing visitors with modern twists on traditional recipes. Pop in for a tour or tasting & have a chat to our team!

Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba NSW 2325 (02) 4058 4188 hunter@foghornbrewery.com.au 76 | MOUNT VIEW/ NULKABA

Savannah Estate Wines 312 Mount View Road, Mount View PH 4990 6326 Savannah Estate lies on the gateway to beautiful Mount View which boasts some of the most stunning views of the Hunter Valley. Third generation from one of the Hunter Valley’s family-owned wineries, Savannah Peterson has taken the helm where you will find her in all parts of the business. Savannah Estate Wines are produced from small select parcels of premium fruit grown in renowned viticulture regions throughout Australia. Savannah hand selects varietals from Australia’s most unique areas that best reflect their regionality and character. Take the time to come and visit us at Savannah Estate where our friendly staff can guide you through our continually evolving tasting list. You will discover Hunter classics along with new and interesting grape varieties, plus our sweet and fortified range. If you do not feel like a wine tasting, grab a glass (or bottle) and a delicious cheese plate made to order. The Cellar Door also offers a range of condiments and gift ideas from local producers. Do not let your furry friends miss out, they are also most welcome! Walk-ins accepted when available, otherwise please call to book.

www.savannahestate.com.au wine@savannahestate.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 days 10AM–5PM Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Groups of up to 15 people welcome WHITE WINES Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Arneis, Vermentino, Pinot Gris RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chambourcin, Tempranillo SPARKLING Brut, Moscato, Sparkling Malbec FORTIFIED WINES Muscat, Port WINEMAKER Gary Reed PRICE RANGE From $22–$70 p/b

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The next generation of Hunter Valley Wines

The Mighty Hunter Valley Cnr Fleming Street & Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba PH 4058 4155 One of the Hunter Valley’s most iconic institutions has had a refurb and a brand new name: welcome to The Mighty Hunter Valley. BREWERY, BAR AND BISTRO Be amongst the first to sample some of the finest the craft world has to offer in this stunning setting, from Foghorn Brewery beer on tap, plus Kangaroo Island spirits, Brogans Way gin, house cocktails and the local wine list. We have a huge lawn to play boules, finska and plenty of space for the kids to run around on, plus a beer garden attached to Foghorn Brewery, bistro area, lounge, TAB, and main bar to watch the footy. Local Chef Sean Townsend, formerly of hatted Muse Kitchen is heading up the kitchen and has upped the ante in terms of casual, family friendly, fresh local produce driven dining. His approach for The Mighty: The Mighty Hunter Valley is to produce clever, but uncomplicated, and approachable fare using only the best local ingredients.

www.mightycraft.com.au/places/ the-mighty-hunter-valley hellohunter@mightycraft.com.au OPENING HOURS Mon to Fri 12PM–Late; Sat & Sun 11AM–Late (All Day Dining) Closed Boxing Day, Good Friday and Easter Sunday GROUPS Welcome DINING STYLE Casual, Pub MAIN MEAL PRICE $22–$42

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Historically, the region was first inhabited by the indigenous Wanaruah tribe many thousands of years ago and were known as ‘the people of the hills and plains’ with many direct descendants still living in the area today. These culturally rich people left many significant cave paintings in the area, which are still accessible today. The natural beauty of the region, coupled with fine Hunter wines, eateries and restaurants, local farm produce, great places to stay and cultural significance, make Broke Fordwich well worth a visit and an excellent reason to return. 78 | BROKE FORDWICH

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Situated in a broad section of the Valley, the surrounding hills frame some of the area's best scenery, with the striking Brokenback Mountain Range, the iconic Yellow Rock and World Heritage wilderness providing an impressive backdrop to rolling vineyards and stunning cellar doors. Wines on offer include Hunter Valley classics alongside emerging varieties.

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Situated an easy 15-minute drive from Pokolbin, the Broke Fordwich region is considered to be a separate viticultural subregion of the Hunter Valley. It accounts for approximately 11% of the vineyard area planted in the Hunter Valley and has quietly developed into a quality wine tourism region where visitors can enjoy premium wines, fresh local produce, unique restaurants and cafés, and most importantly, a tranquil rural experience.

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www.greenwaywines.com.au anne@greenwaywines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Fri 11AM–3PM; Sat 11AM–4PM; Sun 11AM–3PM GROUPS Welcome with booking CLASSROOM EXPERIENCES Chocolate Making, Art N Sip, Pruning Master Class Picnics – see website for more information MAP REF:

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Accept this invitation and become part of the magic that is GREENWAY WINES. You’ll find us in a picturesque Red Barn encircled by the Brokenback Ranges and Wollombi Brook. We’re a family run vineyard producing handcrafted, small batch wines. At GREENWAY our wines are made soley from our vineyard and can only be sourced at the cellar door or online. We also offer cheese and chocolate tastings, antipasto share platters plus classroom experiences.

Margan Winery & Restaurant 1238 Milbrodale Road, Broke PH 6579 1317 Margan is a leading winery and restaurant nestled in the picturesque Broke Fordwich wine region. Set amidst one hundred hectares of certified Sustainably Farmed vineyards with sweeping views across the Brokenback Range, Margan provides an unforgettable setting to enjoy some of the Hunter’s best food and wine. Enjoy exclusive wines in the stunning rammed earth cellar door or a paddock-to-plate menu in the Restaurant with produce from their extensive kitchen garden and orchard. Book online for tours, masterclasses and experiences. Margan have won some of the industry’s most acclaimed awards including: 5 Star Winery – James Halliday National Good Food Guide – One Chef Hat Top 10 Regional NSW Restaurants – Gourmet Traveller Twice Winner – Hunter Cellar Door of the Year Winner – Excellence in Food Tourism, Australian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame – Best Winery, NSW Tourism

www.margan.com.au cellardoor@margan.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM–5PM RESTAURANT Lunch Friday to Sunday Dinner Friday & Saturday GROUPS Welcome. Bookings essential CLOSED Christmas Day, Boxing Day WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Albarino RED WINES Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo Graciano Shiraz, Barbera, Ripasso, Shiraz Mourvedre SPARKLING Sparkling Chardonnay FORTIFIED Botrytis Semillon, Vermouth WINEMAKER Andrew Margan PRICE RANGE $20–$70 p/b

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Greenway Wines 350 Wollombi Road, Broke PH 0418 164 382 or 6579 1175

River Flats Estate 500 Wollombi Road, Broke PH 0409 791 063 River Flats Estate is our family owned olive grove nestled at Broke. Surrounded by olive trees, our shop is a little oasis of handmade products – we are proud producers of olives, olive oils, seasonal chutneys and relishes, vinegars and soys, jams, local honey, BARE Nature’sKin handmade soaps and beauty products. We also offer farm stay accommodation. Visit us to taste our products today – you’ll also get the chance to meet the goats and a few pigs!

www.riverflatsestate.com.au bookings@riverflatsestate.com.au OPENING HOURS Thursday to Sunday 10AM–5PM; or by appointment GROUPS Walk-ins welcome

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Whispering Brook

Nightingale Wines

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Running Horse Wines

BROKE VILLAGE

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Margan Wines & Restaurant

Mount Broke Wines

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Winmark Wines & Art Gallery

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Greenway Wines

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Cellar Door Appointments Only Restaurant Light bites Olives

Visit www.brokefordwichwinetrail.com.au for all cellar door details.

YELLOW ROCK

Bare Nature’sKin River Flats Estate

Krinklewood Estate

Somerville Wines

To Wollombi Village 20 mins Sydney 2 hours

A WINE JOURNEY THROUGH BROKE FORDWICH

Running Horse Wines 1133 Milbrodale Road, Broke PH 0474 156 786 Unique and Boutique

www.runninghorsewines.com david@runninghorsewines.com WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM–6PM. From Mon–Thurs please call to confirm arrival GROUPS Bookings essential for 8+ SPECIALTIES Aged Reds and Whites, Rosé and Fortified Verdelho MAP REF:

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Running Horse Wines has now opened a unique new cellar door, a fantastic spot to try our classic aged range. We have the unique vertical tasting experience, where visitors are able to try the same variety of wine over a range of vintages. Saving you up to 13 years of cellaring wines, our vintages start from 2005 – we are now just releasing our 2014 Shiraz.

Talits Estate 722 Milbrodale Road, Broke PH 0472 500 662 www.talitsestate.com cellar@talitsestate.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Friday to Sunday 10AM–5PM GROUPS Welcome with booking AWARDS James Halliday: 92 Points+ WINEMAKER Daniel Binet

The spirit of Provence in the Hunter Valley! Talits Estate is a family-owned cellar door, vineyard and luxury holiday home in the Broke Fordwich region. The estate sits on 50 acres of gardens, olive trees and meticulously managed and award-winning Chardonnay, Merlot and Shiraz vines. The winery and award-winning winemaker Daniel Binet have won multiple awards in Australia/NZ. The cellar door features local produce boards, barista coffee and their own craft beer brand “Broke Brewing”.

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Winmark Wines 189-229 Wollombi Road, Broke PH 0417 100 824

Spanning 130 breathtaking acres, Winmark is not just a premium Chardonnay producer but a destination in Broke, Hunter Valley. In 2016 new owner Karin Adcock began reestablishing the former award winning Pooles Rock vineyard and added new Chardonnay root stock to some of the 28 acres of nutrient-rich vineyard soil. Winmark continues its remarkable revival with the launch of the Cellar Door, Sculpture walk and Winmark Art Gallery. With a vineyard that holds a long tradition of producing beautiful wines, and grounds that are

www.winmarkwines.com.au info@winmarkwines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Mon to Thurs 11AM–4PM; Fri to Sun 10AM–5PM GROUPS Bookings welcome Private functions | Small Weddings Corporate Events Art Gallery & Sculptures WHITE WINES Rusty’s Run Chardonnay, Winmark Single Vineyard Reserve Chardonnay WINEMAKER John Belsham PRICE GUIDE $32–$49 p/bottle

a wonderland of their own, Winmark is a place of remarkable beauty and unexpected discovery.

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

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Wollombi is a small, picturesque and historic village that has always been an essential base for travellers along the Great North Road and today retains its fine architectural heritage bolstered by cafes, wineries and comfortable guesthouses. To the south is the village of Laguna, to the east, the town of Millfield, and to the north you will find the Broke-Fordwich region.

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Myrtle & Stone Wollombi Map Legend Winery/ Cellar Door Restaurant/ Café Providore/ Gourmet Produce Distillery Beer/Cider/Bar

Laguna

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Stonehurst Cedar Creek

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Great Northern Trading Post 3718 Great North Road, Laguna PH 4998 8244 GNTP is a truly unique venue located at the Hunter Valley entrance along the iconic Great North Road. Our Café, Restaurant and Bar offers exceptional fresh food, live music and warm service in a beautiful rural setting. The restaurant offers an exquisite seasonal menu with local produce. We serve breakfast and lunch 7 days and dinner on Friday nights from 6pm. GNTP sells fuel, has a Tesla charger, ice, plus a well-stocked general store. Adjacent to GNTP is a Gallery, Homeware Store and Providore. 82 | WOLLOMBI

www.gntp.com.au OPENING HOURS Open 7 Days; Sun to Wed 8AM–4PM; Thurs 8AM–8PM; Fri 8AM–10PM; Sat 8AM–6PM SPECIALITIES Excellent Bloody Mary’s, local wines and cider, an impressive range of spirits, Mornington Brewery beer on tap and Allpress Coffee GROUPS Welcome MAP REF:

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Myrtle & Stone 2877 Wollombi Road, Wollombi PH 4998 3220 Myrtle & Stone is a café by day and tapas and gin bar by night. Set in the gorgeous village of Wollombi, we’re all about great food, local produce and sharing the relaxed feeling you get when passing through this part of the world. We love good music, tasty cocktails and service with a smile. Join us for breakfast, lunch or some tasty tapas and enjoy a cocktail or a local drop of vino.

www.myrtleandstone.com hello@myrtleandstone.com OPENING HOURS Weekday Breakfast & Lunch from 7AM (full menu 9AM), Sat & Sun from 8AM; Thurs–Sat Tapas & Gin from 5PM. See website for details SPECIALITIES Gins, live music and tapas GROUPS Welcome, please book MAP REF:

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

www.noycebros.com.au sales@noycebros.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Mon & Thurs 10AM–2PM Fri, Sat & Sun 10AM–4PM Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Welcome

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Route 33 Café At Wollombi Tavern, 2994 Great North Road, Wollombi PH 4998 3261 www.wollombitavern.com.au wollombitavern@outlook.com OPENING HOURS Restaurant Open Mon to Thurs 10AM– 7.45PM; Fri 10AM–9PM; Sat 9.30AM– 9PM; Sun 9AM–7.45PM DINING STYLE Large 400g steaks, hamburgers, night bar menu available GROUPS Welcome, bookings preferred MAP REF:

Stonehurst Cedar Creek 1840 Wollombi Road, Cedar Creek PH 4998 1576 At Stonehurst, we are committed to producing premium, boutique wines. Estate grown on our family’s 5th generation property using sustainable viticulture based on organic principles, our award winning wines are hand crafted in small, limited release batches. We welcome you to enjoy a wine tasting and local cheese platter in our courtyard or sandstone Cellar Door, set in the picturesque Wollombi Valley, open 7 days.

www.stonehurst.com.au wines@stonehurst.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Mon to Thurs 11AM–3PM; Fri to Sun 10AM –5PM. Closed Christmas & Good Friday GROUPS Please book in advance

MAP REF:

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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. 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 mouth-watering burgers a hit amongst hungry travellers.

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Explore, wine and dine along the

Take the path less traveled to the Wollombi Valley and discover great wineries, cafés, shops, wine bars and tavern in the historic village and surrounds.

Stonehurst Wines • Noyce Brothers Wines Great Northern Trading Post Wollombi Tavern • Myrtle & Stone

www.visitwollombi.com.au

Weddings

FEASTS + FUNCTIONS ISSUE #17 2021 | 85

THE MOST

Picturesque VENUE NESTLED IN THE HUNTER VALLEY

From an intimate garden soiree to a grand ballroom banquet, anything is possible at Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort.

Discover More www.oakshotels.com

OAKS CYPRESS LAKES RESORT 15 Thompsons Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320 | oakshotels.com

WHAT WINE COUNTRY

Has to Offer

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

Glenmore Country Estate

For the whimsical, the aspiring and the bold – Glenmore Country Estate will be the home for your wedding. Spend the day and night underneath clear skies and the stars whilst you share your wonderful day with your closest friends and family. Our space accommodates anywhere from 50 to 100 guests simply and easily, depending on how elaborate or intimate your vision is. Beautifully manicured grounds give you room for more and ensure you can take your event out amongst the stars of the night. Perfect for a weekend away – the Homestead has it all. Easily sleeping eight people across four bedrooms, the Homestead has three bathrooms and a modern kitchen. Wine Country Drive, Lovedale PH 4991 0949 | E glenmorestate@ihg.com www.glenmorecountryestate.com.au

and exquisite scenery. The Hunter offers the ideal setting for a perfect event or wedding. 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, guest houses and resorts, all of which are happy to cater for the needs of business and wedding guests.

Hunter's Dream

The Hunter’s Dream Estate combines the grandeur of an established winery with modern function facilities, surrounded by the tranquility and beauty of lavender fields, orchards and a wonderful oriental display garden. Our effortless process aims to simplify the planning to ensure you have fun and your guests leave in awe. Our experience and flexibility means we can accommodate any ideas you may have to create your bespoke, dream event! Let our experienced team help make your wedding the dream event it is really supposed to be – an occasion that is truly unique and memorable for you and all your guests. 149 Deasys Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 6509 | E enquiries@huntersdream.com.au www.huntersdream.com.au/cellar/events ISSUE #17 2021 | 87

Wandin Weddings

The Convent

12 Wilderness Road, Lovedale PH 4930 9888 | E weddings@wandin.com.au www.wandin.com.au

88 Halls Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 4999 | E eventsmanager@escarpmentgroup.com.au www.convent.com.au

Wed in style in the gorgeous Cricketers Pavilion surrounded by the estate vineyard and natural landscape where a range of beautiful ceremony sites are yours to choose from. Our renowned team in Wandin Kitchen provide a wide range of wine and dining choices accompanied by our first class Wedding team who will assist you on your wedding planning journey. Various onsite accommodation choices exist with convenient self contained inclusions ideal for all guests. We look forward to meeting you.

At The Convent Hunter Valley we know that every couple have their own unique idea of how your wedding day will be. With this in mind we offer bespoke planning services to bring your vision to life. 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 and Circa 1876 where you will be pampered by our service staff, and treated to our acclaimed cuisine.

Create everlasting memories at our outstanding wedding and event venue, located in the picturesque Hunter Valley and complimented by the stunning backdrop of the Brokenback Ranges. Our focus on exquisite food, award-winning wines and exceptional service makes us one of the leading venues in the region. Leogate Estate Wines | 1693 Broke Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 www.leogate.com.au | P (02) 4998 7499 | enquiries@leogate.com.au

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CEREMONIES · RECEPTIONS · ACCOMMODATION · RESTAURANTS

“We wanted to extend our warmest gratitude to all of you for making our wedding weekend so very special and ensuring our vision for the big day became a reality so elegantly. From the time we reached out to Estate Tuscany requesting details for a bespoke intimate wedding to the time we said our goodbyes post wedding, we felt thoroughly spoilt as you all went above & beyond to meet our needs and wants, some that we didn’t even know existed when we first started planning, like matching wines for the 5-course dinner!” – September 2018 Wedding Testimonial

Estate Tuscany wwww.estatetuscany.com.au | events@estatetuscany.com.au | 02 4998 7288 | Hunter Valley

Hermitage Rd

McDo nalds Rd

The BEER & CIDER TRAIL Broke

The Garden Cellars

Hope Brewery

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4 Broke Rd

3 Pokolbin Cider House

y ntr Cou ne Wi

Sydney Brewery

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1 Foghorn Brewery

St ing m Fle

The More You Know...

• The builders of the Great Pyramid of Giza were paid with a daily ration of beer! • Zythology is the “study of beer” – from the Greek words zythos (beer) and logos (study), it's the analyzing of ingredients and the effect they have on the brewing process, the knowledge of beer styles and history, and the application of beer pairings. A true beer connoisseur. • The First Professional Brewers were all women. In ancient Peru, breweries were operated by ‘women of the elite’ – those of noble birth, or extremely beautiful were only allowed to brew the beer. 90 | ISSUE #17 2021

Breweries of the Hunter

The Hunter Valley may be synonymous for wine but in recent years several breweries and cider houses have opened their doors serving up an exciting and creative range of local craft ales and ciders. For those who love their beer and cider the Beer & Cider Trail is a great place to start your journey.

Foghorn Brewery

Cnr Fleming Street & Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba FogHorn, Newcastle’s Brewery, has come to the Hunter Valley! Taste awardwinning beers made onsite and in Newcastle, including the Sligo Extra Stout, Hunter Kolsch and Newy Pale Ale. Chat with a brewer at the bar, take a tour to learn more about the brewing process, indulge in a guided tasting, or just sit back and enjoy a taste of our 10 core tap beers and ever-changing limited releases.

At Sydney Brewery Hunter Valley we source our beer from the finest filtered Hunter Valley water, giving our brewers a blank canvas to create a vast range of beers from Lagers and Pale Ales to rich Porters. Four dedicated serving vessels serve the Lovedale Bar & Bistro directly from the brewery with rotating seasonal beers and ciders accompanying our core range.

2213 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Join us at Pokolbin Cider House to try our winemaking twist on Cider! Our range varies from Vintage Cider to Vintage Zinger and Perry, Classic and Sweet Apple, Pear Perry and more adventurous flavours such as Dark Grape, Raspberry/Cranberry and Passionfruit Perry. Come and try our Tasting Paddle – you won’t be disappointed!

With a HUGE 22 beers and ciders on tap, there is something for all beer lovers at Hope Brewery! Across our tap range you can find everything from hoppy ales, NEIPAs, sours, trophywinning stouts, cider and more! Try a tasting paddle with 4 varieties or a flight of 12 served with a cheese plate. Enjoy your paddle right next to the Brewery itself, or overlooking the Hope Estate amphitheatre.

OPEN 7 Days 10AM–5PM PH 4998 6722 E info@pokolbinciderhouse.com.au www.pokolbinciderhouse.com.au BOOKINGS Please book for 6+

HVG Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin The Garden Cellars is located in the picturesque Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village and is home to a fantastic range of local wines, spirits, beers and ciders. We are home to the famous “Tunnel of Beer” stocked to the brim with hundreds of delicious beers and ciders from all around the world and a few from right here in the Hunter Valley.

OPEN Mon to Fri 10AM–Late, Sat & Sun 8am–Late | PH 4991 0947 E lisa.doppler@ihg.com www.sydneybrewery.com BOOKINGS Walk ins welcome, contact us to book a table

Hope Brewery

2342 Broke Road, Pokolbin

The Garden Cellars

At Crowne Plaza HV, 430 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale

OPEN Fri, Sat 10AM–6PM; Sun, Mon & Thu 10AM–5PM; 7 days during NSW School Hols | PH 4058 4188 E hunter@foghornbrewery.com.au www.foghornbrewery.com.au BOOKINGS Recommended for tours

Pokolbin Cider House

Sydney Brewery

OPEN Sun to Thurs 10AM–5PM; Fri & Sat 10AM–6PM PH 4993 3555 or 1800 777 444 E info@hopeestate.com.au www.hopeestate.com.au BOOKINGS Essential for 10+

Cider Facts...

• Beer is made from malted barley while cider is made from fermented apple/pear juice. Many beers nowadays contain fruit and/or other ingredients, but the core is always malted barley. No true-to-form cider will contain malted grains. • It takes approximately 37 apples to make 4 litres of apple cider. • In the 14th Century children were baptized in cider, as it was cleaner than the water.

OPEN 7 Days, 10AM to 5PM PH 4998 7466 E sales@gardencellars.com.au www.gardencellars.com.au BOOKINGS No booking needed

• According to popular legend, Isaac Newton discovered the principle of gravity after watching an apple fall from a tree. So yes, apples inspired the entire field of physics.

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Hermitage Rd

McDo nalds Rd

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Hunter Distillery

Broke

Hunter Distilleries

Distillation in the Hunter Valley is a fine art with dedicated distillers handcrafting a wide range of spirits including gin, vodka, brandy, moonshine, liqueur and schnapps – both in the traditional style and with cutting edge innovation. This trail is unique – providing you with an insight into 4 distinct and quite different distilleries.

Hope Distillery

Broke Rd

y ntr Cou

Mc Do nal ds Rd

ne Wi

Small Mouth Vodka

Oake

M ar r

owbon e

y Cree k Rd

Rd Mount View Rd

Millbrook Distillery

V nt ou

iew Rd

The

bi Rd Wollom

DISTILLERY 92 | ISSUE #17 2021

Trail

Did You Know?

• Ever heard of baijiu? Well it's the world's best selling spirit. It’s a Chinese spirit made primarily from sorghum, high in alcohol, distinct in taste and it has a huge $23 billion market. • At any given time, 0.7% of the world is drunk. 50 million people are drunk right now! • George Washington had a distillery. Once built, it produced 40,000 litres of hooch a year. It’s also still operable, sort of. Patriotism at it's best!

Hunter Distillery

Small Mouth Vodka

HVG Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin

1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Hunter Distillery is the only certified organic distillery in the Hunter Valley wine region. Locally owned and operated, we make all our products from scratch on site, using only premium ingredients. Visit our distillery door and try a unique test tube sampling of our exceptional range of top shelf spirits, including Gins, Vodkas, Liqueurs and Schnapps, plus aged spirits. Hunter Distillery – the original and best!

Small Mouth Vodka is a small family run business that specialises in Shimmering Gins, Vodkas and Liqueurs – Handcrafted from only premium ingredients. We boast full flavour with a long smooth finish in every sip. We are open every day of the week, 10am – 5pm and we try to show even the non-spirit drinkers that with our products its different, that it is smoother and overall a more enjoyable experience than our competitors.

OPEN 7 Days, 10AM–5PM PH 4998 6737 | E info@hunterdistillery.com.au www.hunterdistillery.com.au BOOKINGS Bookings essential

OPEN 7 Days, 10AM–5PM PH 0492 031 862 | E info@smallmouthvodka.com www.smallmouthvodka.com BOOKINGS For 8+ please book

Hope Distillery

2213 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Millbrook Distillery

1617 Mount View Road, Millfield

Established in 2020, Hope Distillery is a small batch distiller producing premium Australian grain spirits. If you’re after something different while visiting the Hunter Valley, our spirit tasting paddles will go down just a treat! Choose from a gin paddle or a vodka and moonshine paddle. All served with a matching garnish, soda or tonic water and mini bucket of ice. Perfectly enjoyed overlooking the Hope Estate amphitheatre!

Millbrook Distillery is one of the few distilleries left in Australia producing Brandy, claimed by our customers to be the equal to the finest Cognacs from Europe. Our Liqueur Brandy is a unique product that you must try! Grape Spirit Liqueurs in flavours of Orange and Lemon are produced in small quantities and are available for tasting. Visitors are welcome, with small groups able to enjoy a private tasting in our tasting room by arrangement.

OPEN Sun to Thurs 10AM–5PM; Fri & Sat 10AM–6PM PH 4993 3555 or 1800 777 444 | E info@hopeestate.com.au www.hopeestate.com.au BOOKINGS Essential for 10+

OPEN 7 Days, 10AM–5PM (Closed Christmas Day and Easter) PH 0405 109 030 | E info@millbrookestate.com.au BOOKINGS Walk-ins welcome, bookings recommended for 4+ ISSUE #17 2021 | 93

Sparkling Trail

odale

Ex pr e

Hermitage Rd

Mistletoe Wines

mbi Rd Wollo MAP NOT TO SCALE

Sparklings of the Hunter

Sparkling wine is not just for celebrations. After all, what other wine style can you enjoy equally with brunch, lunch, and dinner? Amongst the wonderful wines of the Hunter Valley there is a selection of winemakers that specialise in superb Sparkling wines. The Sparkling Wine Trail is a sample of just some of the wineries producing exceptional Sparkling wine.

Brok e Rd

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Hu nte r

McDo nalds Rd

Milbr

Talits Estate

New England Hwy

Pierre's Wines

Wine Country D

New England Hwy

Elderslie Rd

The

Peterson House

Broke Rd

Hungerford Hill Tamburlaine Organic Wines

Did You Know?

• Chandon is the only Australian sparkling wine maker with genuine French heritage – Moët & Chandon expanded their business down under, selling products since 1986. • Certain countries have strict guidelines around naming and quality. To be called Champagne, sparkling wine must be produced by specific methods in a defined northeastern region of France. • Need to revive the fizz? Just add sugar. If you’ve popped open a bottle and left it unfinished overnight, try adding a bit of sugar to your glass before pouring in the wine.

ss wa y

Pierre’s Wines

82 Elderslie Road, Branxton At Pierre’s Wines we produce sparkling wines exclusively produced by the Méthode Traditionelle. Our wines are vintage wines produced from Sémillon, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes grown in the best sparkling grape regions of NSW. Visit us to experience the true potential of Australian sparkling wine.

Peterson House

Cnr Wine Country Drive and Broke Road, Pokolbin

OPEN 10AM–6PM Fri to Sun & Pub Hols; Mon to Thurs by app. PH 0417 433 193 E info@pierreswines.com.au www.pierreswines.com.au BOOKINGS Recommended for 4+

Hungerford Hill Wines

Peterson House is located at the gateway to the region and is famous for the largest array of Sparkling wine in the Hunter Valley. Our Cellar Door offers a broad selection of white and red sparkling wine to taste plus an extensive range of souvenirs inspired by our motto….”Life’s Flat Without Bubbles”

OPEN 7 Days, 10AM–5PM PH 4998 7881 E bubbles@petersonhouse.com.au www.petersonhouse.com.au BOOKINGS Bookings essential

Tamburlaine Organic Wines

2450 Broke Road, Pokolbin

358 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

Hungerford Hill is a Hunter institution incorporating the oldest continuously operating vineyard in Australia, led by renowned Gourmet Traveller Winemaker of the Year nominee Bryan Currie. Our flagship Sparkling is the Tumbarumba Dalliance, made using the Méthode Traditionelle. It’s a complex wine with notes of honeydew melon/white peach.

The Organic way. We craft award-winning organic, vegan-friendly, no added sulphur and low sulphur wines while limiting our impact on the environment. Working to leave our Hunter Valley and Orange vineyards in the best condition possible for generations to follow. Our Cellar Door is located in the heart of wine country.

Talits Estate

OPEN 7 Days 10AM–5PM PH 4998 7666 E cds@hungerfordhill.com.au www.hungerfordhill.com.au BOOKINGS Please call or book online

722 Milbrodale Road, Broke Experience “the spirit of Provence” in the Hunter Valley at Talits Estate. This award-winning cellar door offers two of the Hunter’s most talked about sparkling wines. For fans of high end Champagne (without the price tag), try their 2013 “Blanc De Blancs”. For the Rosé fans, try their now infamous Été [summer] sparkling Rosé of Merlot. Book a tasting online today!

OPEN 7 Days 9AM–5PM PH 4998 4222 E info@tamburlaine.com.au www.tamburlaine.com.au BOOKINGS Walk-ins welcome, however please book for 6+

Mistletoe Wines

771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

OPEN Friday to Sunday 10AM–5PM PH 0472 500 662 E cellar@talitsestate.com.au www.talitsestate.com.au BOOKINGS Bookings recommended

Mistletoe is not just another Cellar Door, it is a genuine working vineyard and winery, Art Gallery and Sculpture Garden – with our wines exclusive to our cellar door. Visit us to try our Petillant Sparkling Rosé Methode Traditionnelle Blanc de Blancs. With 3 generations involved in our winery, you will be looked after with a friendly welcome and knowledgeable service.

OPEN 7 Days, 10AM–5PM PH 1800 055 080 E office@mistletoewines.com.au www.mistletoewines.com.au BOOKINGS Bookings essential

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Tintilla Estate

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The CHEESE

& Olives

Broke

2 Broke Rd

in e

tr y un Co

Hunter Belle Cheese

Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop

Loveda le

itage Rd Herm

Trail Rd

Binnorie Dairy

s ald

The Hunter Olive Centre at Pokolbin Estate

Fat Cow Cheese Shop

Did Someone say Cheese and Olives?

The Hunter Valley is a diverse and heavenly food bowl, where you can chat with friendly locals, cheese makers and farmers. With an extensive range of locally produced gourmet food to tempt any palate – from olives & olive oils, locally made and imported cheese as well as condiments, sauces and jams, it’s no wonder that the Hunter Valley has become a favourite destination for foodies. The Cheese and Olive Trail is a good place to start for some of the finest locally made and locally grown gourmet produce to sample and purchase directly from the maker.

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The More You Know...

• Banks in Italy will accept wheels of Parmesan Reggiano (the ‘King of all cheeses’) as collateral on loans – now that’s expensive cheese! • Cheese was created over 4,000 years ago-by accident. • Despite popular belief, mice actually don’t like cheese. Given the choice, they prefer sweets and carbs. Sure, they’ll eat cheese if it’s the only thing around, but they don’t particularly love it. • Queen Victoria (1819–1901) was given the greatest wedding gift of all: a giant wheel of cheddar cheese that weighed over 1,000 pounds.

Binnorie Dairy

Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop

25 Lodge Road, Lovedale

Roche Estate & Pokolbin Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin

Binnorie Dairy has been making cheeses in the Valley since 2003, originally on Hermitage Road. With a new location in Lovedale, our range has now expanded. Making Goat and Cow Cheeses, there something for everyone. Tastings are complementary, why not buy a few products and sit on the deck with a local wine or a Peaberrys Coffee, or indulge at our café on a weekend.

Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop provides the finest local, Australian and imported Artisan cheese gourmet delights and more. Grab a cup of coffee and a slice of our house made baked cheesecake, sit outside and enjoy the view. We also offer an extensive menu of pizza, baguettes, burgers or specials with a glass of local wine/beer. We are located at both Roche Estate and Pokolbin Village.

OPEN Cheeseroom + Retail 7 Days, 10AM–5PM; Café open Sat & Sun 11AM–3PM | PH 4998 6660 E info@binnorie.com.au www.binnorie.com.au BOOKINGS Walk-ins welcome

The Hunter Olive Centre

298/320 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin Located on the beautiful grounds of Pokolbin Estate, The Hunter Olive Centre has been showcasing some of the finest Hunter gourmet foods since 2003. As one of the largest specialty food outlets in the Hunter Valley, we display over 400 locally made products, of which up to 60 are on tasting at any one time. Daily tastings include items such as Olives, Olive Oil, Dukkah, Jams, Chutney and Chilli Products.

OPEN Sun to Thurs 10AM–5PM; Fri & Sat 10AM–5:30PM PH 4998 6713 E info@smellycheese.net.au www.smellycheese.net.au BOOKINGS By appointment only

Fat Cow Cheese Shop

At Ben Ean, 119 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

OPEN 7 Days 10AM–4PM PH 4998 7524 E info@pokolbinestate.com.au www.pokolbinestate.com.au BOOKINGS Bookings recommended

Hunter Belle Cheese

With the introduction of the Fat Cow Cheese Shop, D’Vine Treats has expanded their broad range of chocolate, olives, gifts and gourmet goods to cheese, packaged meats, sauces and more! Find the best of local Hunter Valley and national cheese, chocolate and olive oil to try upstairs within Ben Ean Winery, open 7 days.

Tintilla Estate

OPEN 7 Days 10AM–5PM PH 4993 3704 E fatcowcheese@outlook.com www.dvinetreats.com.au BOOKINGS Walk-ins welcome, bus groups please book

1616 Broke Road, Pokolbin

725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

Hunter Belle is a Cheese Deli, Bar, Gourmet Produce, Café and Gift Store all in one – a social space for people to enjoy quality wine and craft beer matched with artisan cheese, fine food and decadent fudge and gelato. We offer a huge award-winning range including creamy bries, flavoursome fetas, bold cheddars as well as butter, milk and yoghurt. Discover Hunter Belle today!

Tintilla Estate Winery and Olive Grove is living the renaissance of hand-crafted wines and produce in the Hunter Valley. Experience the quality of the paddock to plate produce – our jams and relishes taste homemade because they are. Come in and taste our home-cured olives, the lush Frantoios, plump Manzanillas, rich Olive Tapenade and traditional winery produce.

OPEN Cheese Room 7 days, 10AM– 5PM; Café 7 days, 10AM–3PM PH 9159 0770 E cheeseroom@hunterbellecheese.com.au www.hunterbellecheeseroom.com BOOKINGS Bookings essential

OPEN 7 Days 10.30AM–6PM PH 6574 7093 E info@tintilla.com.au www.tintilla.com.au BOOKINGS Bookings recommended

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Emma’s Cottage

ag e

WINE TRAIL

Hermit

Art +

Mistletoe Wines

d sR nes r e Wild

Deasys

Gillar ds

Constable Estate Watershed Gallery Rd

Broke Rd

Winmark Wines

Broke

cDo nald s

Wollomb i Rd

Rd Wine Country Dr

Hunter Valley Art and Sculpture

The Hunter Valley is renowned for its thriving art scene. The Art & Wine trail takes you on a journey to a selection of galleries showcasing local and visiting artists as well as outdoor sculpture gardens in stunning vineyard locations where you can take in the stunning works with a glass of wine in hand. Don’t forget Sculpture in the Vines Wollombi (11–26 Sept 2021).

Loviz Arts d le R

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eda Lov

Did You Know?

• Art used to be an Olympic event – the founder of the modern Games, the Baron Pierre de Coubertin gave out medals between 1912–1948 for sporting-inspired masterpieces of architecture, music, painting, sculpture and literature. • The colour wheel predates the United States. • Painting the Mona Lisa’s lips took Leonardo da Vinci 12 years. • Learning to become creative is a deliberate process, very much the same as learning to read or doing maths.

Emma’s Cottage

Loviz Arts Gallery

438 Wilderness Road, Lovedale

At Crowne Plaza HV, 430 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale

Emma’s Cottage is one of the smallest boutique vineyards in the Hunter Valley – offering premium wines, a cellar door and gallery, plus boutique accommodation. Within our gallery is a collection of regular art exhibitions and handmade treasures from various Australian artists and artisans from the Hunter Valley and further afield. We welcome you to visit!

Tanya Loviz is famous for her cheeky, uplifting art that is uniquely filled with gemstones, mixed media, and thick paint applications. An Australian artist living in the Hunter Valley with 29+ years of experience, 40 solo exhibits, and a staggering collection of over 1,700 paintings. At her gallery discover a range of originals, prints and more to view or purchase as a rare memento.

OPEN Fri 12PM–4PM; Sat 10AM–5PM; Sun 10AM–3PM | PH 4998 7734 E info@emmascottage.com.au www.emmascottage.com.au BOOKINGS Please book for 8+

Watershed Gallery

621 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin Watershed Gallery is the culmination of our vision to create a vibrant contemporary art space in the beautiful Hunter Valley vineyard region for the display and retail of a diverse range of works by career artists. We believe we have delivered on that vision and we invite visitors to come and view original works by an exceptional group of artists both local and national.

Constable Estate

Over 30+ years, David Constable has created extraordinarily beautiful gardens. All are welcome to visit our Cellar Door and have a walk around – ask us for a map, and discover our Oak Walk, Sculpture Park, Camellia Garden, Secret Garden, Millennium Walk, Rose Garden and much more. The Len Evans Memorial Lookout with extensive views over Pokolbin is a must see.

OPEN Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat 10AM–4PM; Sun 10AM–3PM. Closed some public holidays | PH 4998 7887 E hunter@constablevineyards.com.au www.constableestate.com.au BOOKINGS Only for wine tastings

Winmark Art Gallery & Sculpture Park

771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

229 Wollombi Road, Broke

Mistletoe is not just another Cellar Door, it is a genuine working vineyard and winery, along with Pokolbin Fine Art Gallery and Mistletoe Sculpture Garden. Visit us to see our amazing artworks and try some wine at our cellar door. With 3 generations involved in our winery, you will be looked after like one of the family with a friendly welcome and knowledgeable service.

Winmark’s Karin Adcock has been an avid collector of art and sculptures and the new Art Gallery and Sculpture Park showcase some of the amazing artists she has discovered through her travels. The Winmark Art Gallery is placed alongside the new Cellar Door, connecting art, nature and wine. The Gallery is proudly representing renown local and national artsists.

OPEN 7 Days, 10AM–5PM PH 1800 055 080 E office@mistletoewines.com.au www.mistletoewines.com.au BOOKINGS Bookings essential

205 Gillards Road, Pokolbin

OPEN Fri to Mon, 10.30AM to 4.30PM PH 0418 699 256 E art@watershedgallery.com.au www.watershedgallery.com.au BOOKINGS Only required for 12+

Mistletoe Wines

OPEN 7 Days 9AM to 5PM PH 0412 305 413 E info@lovizarts.com.au www.lovizarts.com.au BOOKINGS Walk-ins welcome

OPEN Mon to Thurs 11AM–4PM, Fri to Sun 10AM–5PM | PH 0417 100 824 E info@winmarkwines.com.au www.winmarkwines.com.au BOOKINGS Walk ins welcome

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THE

Brekkie & Brunch

TRAIL Rd itage Herm

Wandin Kitchen Wilderness Rd

Palmers Lane

Broke

Broke Rd

Restaurant Cuvee

The Deck Café

lds

Fawk Foods

W in

try un Co

Gigi & Chix Bonbon

Loveda le

Restaurant Kawul

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Start Your Day the Right Way...

Regardless of the time of year the Hunter Valley is a great destination for a hearty country breakfast or brunch and when surrounded by vineyards, groves of olive trees, bird filled dams or mountain views what better place to be while you tuck into a bowl of healthy bircher muesli, fruit filled pancakes, a delicious ham and cheese croissant or your choice of bacon and eggs. Don’t forget the Sparkling! The Brekkie and Brunch Trail provides you with a choice of some of the best local breakfast venues around with clever chefs and restaurateurs thinking outside the square when it comes to the first meal of the day. 100 | ISSUE #17 2021

Did You Know?

• The idea of brunch was invented all the way back in 1895. • The Bloody Mary cocktail was invented in France and spiced up for American tastes at New York City's King Cole Bar. They then gained popularity as an alcoholic version of tomato juice cocktails that were served as appetisers in restaurants. • Pancakes might be one of the oldest brekkie/brunch classics in history – with origins traced all the way back to the Ancient Greeks! • Origins of avocado on toast is still unknown, but according to The Washington Post, chef Bill Granger in our very own Sydney, Australia may have been the first person to put avocado toast on his café menu in 1993.

Wandin Kitchen

The Deck Café

12 Wilderness Road, Lovedale

701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale

Bubbles with Brunch, good idea! Wandin Kitchen is a beautiful place to start the day with Sunday Brunch. If you prefer breakfast to become lunch then our menu for Lunch delights all the senses and encourages you to take as much time as you need to unwind and dine. Relax.

The Deck Café Lovedale at Gartelmann Estate is a unique Hunter Valley experience for the whole family. Exciting delicious food, beautiful dam-side location and a warm inviting atmosphere inside and out. Alpacas, ponies and chooks to feed and plenty of space to run around. Book a wine tasting at our Cellar Door after your breakfast and get 10% off your wines.

Wandin

The Deck

OPEN Sunday Brunch from 8.30AM; Lunch from 12PM Wed–Sun PH 4930 9888 E kitchen@wandin.com.au www.wandin.com.au BOOKINGS Essential

Restaurant Cuvee

Cnr Wine Country Drive and Broke Road, Pokolbin

Fawks OPEN 7 Days, 8AM–2PM E enquiries@fawkfoods.com www.fawkfoods.com BOOKINGS Walk-ins only

HVG Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7050

Gigi

We are a contemporary Parisian Patisserie specialising in delicious pastries, a stunning range of cakes, and savouries made from scratch using only the best ingredients. We serve the popular ‘The Grounds of Alexandria’ Coffee, and we are famous for our ham & cheese croissants! Book a High Tea with us, or simply enjoy a delicious brunch! Book online today.

Fawk Foods Kitchen & Bakery It’s all about good times and tasty food. Come in for your choice of barista brew every morning along with breakfast available all day or fresh baked goodies and sourdough. We love what we do, pop in so we may serve you. See how great casual dining can be.

OPEN Breakfast 8.30AM–11AM; Lunch 12PM–3PM, 7 Days PH 4998 7881 E cuvee@petersonhouse.com.au www.petersonhouse.com.au BOOKINGS Bookings essential

Gigi & Chix Bonbon

OPEN 7 Days Breakfast & Lunch, Friday + Saturday Dinner PH 4930 9007 E bookings@deckcafe.com.au www.deckcafelovedale.com.au BOOKINGS Essential

Pokolbin Village, 2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Rest Cuvee

Located within the beautiful sandstone walls of Peterson House, Restaurant Cuvee is renowned for its famous Bubbly Breakfast and stunning vineyard views. Restaurant Cuvee is the perfect spot to start your day with a hearty country breakfast, and a glass of bubbles. If you haven’t already, you need to try our Corn Fritters, a recipe that hasn’t changed for a decade!

OPEN Mon, Thurs & Fri 9AM–4PM; Sat 9AM–3.30PM; Sun 9AM–3PM E info@gigichix.com.au www.gigichix.com.au BOOKINGS Bookings essential

Restaurant Kawul

At Calais Estate, 151 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Restaurant Kawul offers a picturesque vineyard spot to relax over a delicious meal. We use organic produce to create native inspired cuisine in a modern and creative way. We have a particular love of vegan dishes, and can cater to any dietry requirements.

OPEN Fri & Sat 8AM–8.30PM; Mon, Thurs & Sun 8AM–3PM PH 4998 7333 E bookings@kawul.com.au www.kawul.com.au BOOKINGS Bookings recommended ISSUE #17 2021 | 101

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Mistletoe Wines

Hunter's Dream

5 Wandin

’s Rd

Her

Mc Don ald sR d

mitage Rd

Deasy

Wilderness Rd Palmer

Tatler Wines

Broke Rd

Loveda le R d

Brok e Rd

s Lane

4 ry unt e Co Win

Tamburlaine Organic Wines

The

Marro

Oakey Creek Rd wb on eR d

Saddler's Creek Wines

Mount View Rd

ROSÉ Trail

Did You Know?

• Rosé gets it’s pink color from the skin being left in contact with the crushed grapes for a while. The longer it sits, the darker the color will be. The skin is removed from a few hours to 3 days. • Rosé wine is generally not meant to be “aged.” It’s best consumed within 2–3 years of release. • Don’t confuse Rosé with Blush. Blush wines are semi-sweet, while Rosé is dry. • Rosé is versatile and pairs well with bbq, spicy food, chicken & pork, sushi, seafood, charcuterie & cheese, tapas, salads, pizza, plus more! 102 | ISSUE #17 2021

Rosé's of the Hunter

Rosé wine is the trendy wine of the 21st century. Do you love Rosé? The Rosé Trail introduces you to wineries known for producing exceptional examples of this popular wine style.

ad Ro i b om oll W

Wandin

12 Wilderness Road, Lovedale Rosé Every Day! Wandin Rosé is a perfectly pale, French provincial style, with delicate fruit and a fresh finish. Suited to so many food styles, this wine is a crowd pleaser for so many occasions. We look forward to sharing this and many other Wandin wines with you soon.

477 Lovedale Road, Lovedale Tatler is a family-owned, Hunter Valley winery, cultivating quality wine that captures the spirit of Lovedale. We promise a high quality taste through a hands-on approach. As a result, wine is made with precision and care so you can get more out of it. Designed to bring people together, we produce a varied portfolio including one of our favourites, the Tatler 2019 Rita’s Rosé.

OPEN 7 Days, 10AM to 5PM PH 4930 9888 E cellardoor@wandin.com.au www.wandin.com.au BOOKINGS Preferred

Saddler’s Creek Wines

Tatler Wines

OPEN Wed, Thu & Sun 10AM–4PM; Fri & Sat 10AM–5PM PH 4930 9139 E sales@tatlerwines.com www.tatlerwines.com BOOKINGS Recommended, book online

Tamburlaine Organic Wines

15 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin

358 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

If you love something pink, then be sure to stop by and enjoy Saddler’s Creek wines deliciously refreshing Rosé – estate Grown, and crafted from hand picked Shiraz, Cabernet and Merlot. Book a wine tasting experience or relax in our beautiful wine garden with a bottle. “Wine and Chill” on weekends with live music and casual eats with our onsite food van Friday, to Sunday. We are also Pet friendly.

Hunter’s Dream

OPEN 7 Days 10AM–5PM PH 4991 1770 E winery@saddlerscreek.com www.saddlerscreek.com BOOKINGS Walk-ins are welcome however bookings are recommended

149 Deasys Road, Pokolbin Enjoy the serenity and elegance of the evolving Oriental display garden and discover the natural secrets of the Hunter’s Dream culinary range. Our ‘Harmony’ is a light and Summery fresh Rosé style blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Semillon grapes. With a fruity bouquet, the palate is well balanced with some natural sweetness.

OPEN 7 Days 9AM–5PM PH 4998 4200 E info@tamburlaine.com.au www.tamburlaine.com.au BOOKINGS Walk-ins welcome, however please book for 6+

Mistletoe Wines

771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

OPEN Mon–Sat 10AM to 5PM; Sun 11AM–4PM | PH 4998 6509 E enquiries@huntersdream.com.au www.huntersdream.com.au/cellar BOOKINGS Bookings recommended

Mistletoe is not just another Cellar Door, it is a genuine working vineyard and winery, Art Gallery and Sculpture Garden – with our wines exclusive to our cellar door. Visit us to try our 3 different Rosés, including a Sparkling Rosé. With 3 generations involved in our winery, you will be looked after like one of the family with a friendly welcome and knowledgeable service.

OPEN 7 Days, 10AM–5PM PH 1800 055 080 E office@mistletoewines.com.au www.mistletoewines.com.au BOOKINGS Bookings essential

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MAP NOT TO SCALE

Deasy’ s Rd

Petersons Wines

DeBortoli

Tatler Wines

eC Win

Pokolbin Estate

Mc D on

alds

Broke Rd

Lov e d ale Rd

Brok e Rd

try oun

Ernest Hill 2

Oakey Creek Rd

Drayton's Family Wines

Did You Know?

• “Noble rot” is the term for the edible mold that causes grapes to lose nearly all of their water content. • Late harvest grapes are often hand-picked. Sometimes, the usable grapes from one vine may only produce enough juice for a single glass. • Fortified means strengthened, essentially meaning fortified wines are those which are stronger (in alcohol) than most. These wines are higher in alcohol content due to being mixed with a distilled spirit. Most commonly this spirit is brandy, or one distilled from grapes, grains or sugar. 104 | ISSUE #17 2021

Dessert Wine and Fortifieds

With over 180 years of winemaking tradition, these wines are a true highlight of the region. The ‘Stickies’ Trail pays homage to the some of the most luscious dessert and fortified wines of the Hunter Valley.

Stickies TRAIL

Tatler Wines

Ernest Hill Wines

477 Lovedale Road, Lovedale

307 Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba

Tatler is a family-owned, Hunter Valley winery, cultivating quality wine that captures the spirit of Lovedale. We promise a high quality taste through a hands-on approach. As a result, wine is made with precision and care so you can get more out of it. Designed to bring people together, we produce a varied portfolio including a Muscat and a Semillon Botrytis Sticky.

Ernest Hill Wines (established 1999) is one of the leading boutique wineries in the Hunter Valley – No 1 on Tripadvisor. Call in and say hello to the Wilson family and sample our small range of sweet wines. Our fortified and dessert wine range includes Luna Spark, a sweet Semillon; Moondance, a sweet Gewurztraminer Dessert wine; and the 11 O’Clocker Liqueur Muscat.

OPEN Wed, Thu & Sun 10AM–4PM; Fri & Sat 10AM–5PM PH 4930 9139 E sales@tatlerwines.com www.tatlerwines.com BOOKINGS Recommended, book online

DeBortoli Wines

Petersons Wines

532 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin

2347 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Darren De Bortoli created Noble One in 1982, to this day it is still one of the most awarded wines in history. More than three decades after this pioneering Botrytis Semillon took the world by storm, internationally acclaimed Noble One remains the benchmark of Australian ‘Botrytis’ dessert winemaking. Try our Tasting Flight featuring 4 Botrytis wines – matching chocolate is also available.

Petersons have been producing award winning, fine wines for over 40 years. Conveniently located just down from Peterson House, our picturesque cellar door is the perfect spot to visit along your wine trail, complete with a beautiful vineyard backdrop. Our fortified and dessert range includes a 2014 Botrytis Semillon, a delicious Reserve Muscat and a Tawny.

Pokolbin Estate

OPEN 7 Days 10AM–5PM PH 4993 8800 E hunter_info@debortoli.com.au www.debortoli.com.au BOOKINGS Walk-ins welcome, however bookings recommended

OPEN 7 Days 10AM–5PM PH 4991 4418 E wines@ernesthillwines.com.au www.ernesthillwines.com.au BOOKINGS Bookings recommended

OPEN 7 Days 10AM–5PM PH 4998 7379 E brokeroad@petersonswines.com.au www.petersonswines.com.au BOOKINGS Bookings recommended

Drayton’s Family Wines

298 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

555 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

Established in 1889, Pokolbin Estate Vineyard is one of Australia’s oldest boutique vineyards, specialising in Semillon, Shiraz, Riesling, Sangiovese and Nebbiolo, and receiving over 300 medals and trophies. In our fortified and dessert wine range we offer Ports, Riesling, Muscat, Solera and Shiraz. You can also visit The Hunter Olive Centre, which is onsite.

Drayton’s Family Wines is the premier fortified and liqueur producer in the Hunter Valley. Our cellar door in Pokolbin boasts a huge array of fortified wines and liqueurs to tempt any wine aficionado! Our ultra-premium selection includes a 1978 Tawny, an aged Liqueur Verdelho and the Old Decanter. We also offer a range of unique stickies and liqueurs, plus more!

OPEN 7 Days 10AM–4PM PH 4998 7524 E info@pokolbinestate.com.au www.pokolbinestate.com.au BOOKINGS Bookings recommended

OPEN Mon to Fri 8AM–5PM; Weekends & Pub Hols 10AM–5PM PH 4998 7513 E drink@draytonswines.com.au www.draytonswines.com.au BOOKINGS Walk-ins welcome Mon– Fri, bookings recommended Sat–Sun

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HOW TO

Taste Wine Not an 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.

1. 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 a 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 are crystals or sediment present in the wine. Crystals that appear on the 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.

2. 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. 3. TASTE 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. 4. 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” mouthfeel due to its fuller body. Note the lingering impression that remains in your mouth after you swallow the wine – this is called the “finish”. 5. 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.

Types of Wine Glasses FLUTE Great for sparkling wines, especially Prosecco. These glasses help maintain bubble finessé. WHITE WINE GLASS Great for wines where the focus is on delicate fruit and floral aromatics. These glasses help maintain temperature. AROMA COLLECTOR Known as “Burgundy Glasses”, these glasses do wonders with a lighter-bodied red like 106 | ISSUE #17 2021

Pinot Noir, and are also a great choice for oak-aged Chardonnay or a Rosé. UNIVERSAL Great for most but great for spicy red wines or food wines, e.g. Tempranillo and Barbera. OVERSIZED A superb choice for bolder and high tannin red wines. DESSERT WINE GLASS Not actually neccessary to taste these wines, but do however help with portion control!

Introducing the Hunter Valley's

The Lad y in

Pin k . ..

Tempranillo | Nebbiolo | Sangiovese | Nebbiolo Rosé

Get your taste for adventure today at ...Pokolbin Estate. Winery – 2017 James Halliday Australian Wine Companion

POKOLBIN ESTATE VIN EYARD

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

! n o i t a c o e n OL

TWO EXPERIENCES...

THE DECK CAFÉ

Take time to taste the delights of The Deck Café. Start your day with an extensive breakfast menu or long lunch the day away with a Mediterranean inspired Tapas Menu that’s worth savouring well into the afternoon. OPEN BREAKFAST & LUNCH 7 DAYS; DINNER FRI + SAT PH 4930 9007 www.deckcafelovedale.com.au

GARTELMANN WINES Voted one of the Top 10 Cellar Doors to visit in the Hunter Valley, Gartelmann Wines specialise in fine hand-crafted wines using grapes sourced from some of our most famous wine regions. OPEN 7 DAYS PH 02 4930 7113 www.gartelmann.com.au cellardoor@gartelmann.com.au

| 701 LOVEDALE ROAD, LOVEDALE