Wine & Dine Hunter Valley | Issue 18 2022 by WCP MEDIA

FREE

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

ISSUE #18 | 2022

2 | ISSUE #18 2022

WEEKENDS AT SADDLER’S WINE TASTING + CASUAL EATS + LIVE MUSIC ONSITE FOOD VAN BY VINCENT ST KITCHEN + BAR Pet friendly picnic grounds

WINE & FOOD PAIRING MASTERCLASSES Each Sunday (Bookings Essential)

BOOK NOW: SADDLERSCREEK.COM.AU 15 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin | Open 7 Days 10am–5pm | Ph 02 4991 1770

ISSUE #18 2022 | 3

Welcome TO ISSUE #18

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 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, Tiffany Fordham GRAPHIC DESIGN Katrina Reeves FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION: +61 2 4943 2888 info@wcpmedia.com.au 297 Brunker Road, Adamstown NSW 2289 COVER IMAGE Spicers Guesthouse, Spicers Retreats, Pokolbin. Credit: Spicers Retreats © Copyright 2022 WCP MEDIA IMAGE: CESSNOCK CITY COUNCIL

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.

4 | ISSUE #18 2022

Australia's

Must Visit

WINE REGION CONTENTS EVERY ISSUE 4 Editor's Note 8 Quick Index 12 What’s On in the Hunter Valley 28 Hunter Valley Varietals – Whites 64 Top Drops 68 Hunter Valley Varietals – Reds 106 Sniff, Sip & Swirl – How to Taste Wine

FEATURES 27 4 Pines at The Farm 52 Oak & Vine – Bringing Flavour Home to the Hunter 81 Margan – Estate Grown. Estate Made.

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

AREA WINE & FOOD TRAILS 16 Pokolbin North (Around Hermitage) 30 Pokolbin South (Parish of Pokolbin) 54 Lovedale & Branxton 70 Mount View, Nulkaba & Cessnock 76 Broke Fordwich 82 Wollombi

TASTING TRAILS 92 Beer & Cider Trail

Discover Hunter Valley

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

ISSUE #18 2022 | 5

SPI1953

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

restaurantbotanica.com.au Phone 02 6574 7229 555 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin 6 | ISSUE #18 2022

Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards 2020

HOW TO USE

LOCATE WHERE YOU ARE AND CHOOSE YOUR TRAIL...

WINE & DINE

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!

W DH

LAN

ENG

COU NRT

Y DR

NEW

54 Lovedale & Branxton

BROKE FORDWICH

70 Mount View, Nulkaba & Cessnock 76 Broke Fordwich

BROKE RD

POKOLBIN SOUTH Parish of Pokolbin

OMBI WOLL

But Wait There''s More...

BROKE RD

82 Wollombi

LE RD

30 Pokolbin South (Parish of Pokolbin)

LOVEDA

16 Pokolbin North (Around Hermitage)

LOVEDALE

POKOLBIN NORTH Around Hermitage

MCDONALDS RD

AREA WINE & FOOD TRAILS

WINE COUNRTY DR

HERMITAGE RD

WIN E

NULKABA

MCDONALDS RD

MOUNT VIEW

87 Feasts & Functions 92 Beer & Cider Trail

WOLLOMBI

94 Distillery Trail

CESSNOCK RD

WOLLOMBI

96 Sparkling Trail

Beer & Cider? See page 92

98 Cheese & Olives Trail 100 Art & Wine Trail

PICK UP YOUR FREE MAP

102 Brekkie & Brunch Trail

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

104 Rosé Trail

SYMBOLS

Within each listing you will find a couple symbols to help you navigate through wine country. The main symbols are noted in the top right hand corner of each listing and refer to the main features of the business listed as follows: Brewery or Beer/Cider On Tap

Cellar Door

Distillery/Spirits

Providore

Restaurant/Café

The symbols at the bottom of each listing show other facilities that are available in the same building or adjacent. Accommodation

Disabled Access

Free Wifi

Picnic Hampers

Barista-Made Coffee

Distillery

Functions/ Events/ Weddings

Providore/Gourmet Produce

Beer/Cider on Tap

Dog Friendly

Guided Winery Tours

Restaurant/Café

Cooking Classes

Family Friendly

On Site Gallery

Shop Online

Winery/Cellar Door

Visit www.wineanddinehuntervalley.com.au to find everything you need online, and to book on the go! ISSUE #18 2022 | 7

Quick Index to Cellar Doors (A-P) 4 Pines at The Farm

917 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7777

7 Days

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

Ben Ean

119 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin. PH 4993 3700

Mon–Sat 9AM–5PM; Sun 10AM–5PM

Blueberry Hill Vineyard

999 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7295

Thurs–Mon 10AM-5PM

Bonvilla Estate

534 Oakey Creek Road, Rokolbin. PH 4089 2250

Wed–Sun 10AM–5PM

Briar Ridge Vineyard

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

Carillion Wines

749 Mount View Road, Mount View PH 4990 7535

Thurs–Mon 10AM–5PM

Crossing Creek Estate

319 Deasys Road, Rothbury. PH 0427 112 891

Fri–Sun 10AM–3PM

De Bortoli Wines

532 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin. PH 4993 8800

7 Days 10AM–5PM

DeCapel Wines

101 Majors Lane, Keinbah PH 0419 994 299 or 0409 975 073

Fri–Sun 10AM–4PM by appointment only

De-Iuliis Wines

1616 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4993 8000

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Dirt Candy Wine

555 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin. PH 0431 221 735

Thurs–Mon 10AM–5PM

Drayton's Family Wines

555 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7513

Mon–Fri 8AM–5PM; Sat & Sun 10AM–5PM

Easy Street Collective

16 Pokolbin Mountains Road, Pokolbin. PH 0468 335 114

Wed–Sun 10AM–4PM

Elbourne Wines

236 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 6996

By Appointment Only

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

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–4:30PM

Iron Gate Estate

Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 6570

7 Days 10AM–4PM

James Estate Wines

1142/1210 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7992

7 Days 10AM–4PM

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 Wines & Restaurant

1238 Milbrodale Road, Broke. PH 6579 1317

7 Days 10AM–5PM

McCaffrey's Estate

614 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin PH 0487 809 888

Fri–Mon 10AM–5PM

McGuigan Wines

447 McDonalds Rd Cnr of Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998 4111

7 Days 10AM–5PM

McLeish Estate

462 DeBeyers Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7754

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Mount Broke Wines

130 Adams Peak Road, Broke. PH 6579 1314

Fri from 3PM; Sat–Sun 10AM-5PM

Mount Pleasant

401 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7505

7 Days 10AM–5PM

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 Rd & Wine Country Dr, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7881

7 Days 9AM–5PM

Petersons Wines – Pokolbin

2347 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7379

7 Days 10AM–5PM

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

552 Mount View Road, Mount View. PH 4990 1704

Mon–Sat 9AM–5PM; Sun 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

Running Horse Wines

1133 Milbrodale Road, Broke. PH 0474 156 786

7 Days 10AM–6PM (Call Mon–Thur)

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

Talits Estate

722 Milbrodale Road, Broke. PH 0472 500 662

Fri–Sun 10AM–5PM

Tamburlaine Organic Wines

358 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 4222

7 Days 9AM–5PM

Tatler Wines

477 Lovedale Road, Lovedale. PH 4930 9139

Fri & Sat 10AM–5PM; Mon, Wed, Thurs + Sun 10AM–4PM

Tempus Two

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

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Thirsty Palette Wines

247 Wilderness Road, Lovedale PH 0493 223 406

Fri–Sat 10AM–5PM; Sun–Thurs by Appointment

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

Distilleries and Brewhouses (A-Z) Easy Street Collective

16 Pokolbin Mountains Rd, Pokolbin. PH 0468 335 114

Wed–Sunday 10AM–4PM

Foghorn Brewery

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

Fri + Sat 10AM–6PM; Sun, Wed, Thur 10AM–5PM

Hope Brewery & Distillery

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

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

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

Millbrook Distillery

1617 Mount View Road, Millfield. PH 0405 109 030

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Pubs, Bars & Taverns (A-Z) 4 Pines at the Farm

917 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7777

7 Days

Blaxland Inn

2198 Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998 7550

Lunch Wed–Sun 12PM–3PM; Dinner Wed–Sun 5PM–8PM

Cypress Lakes Bar & Bistro

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

7 Days 12PM–9PM

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

Huntlee Tavern

3 Empire Street, Branxton. PH 8866 1899

7 Days

Lovedale Bar + Grill

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

7 Days from 11AM

The Brokenback Bar

Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998 7288

7 Days 12PM–9PM

Wollombi Tavern

2994 Great North Road, Wollombi. PH 4998 3261

7 Days ISSUE #18 2022 | 9

Quick Index to Cafés and Restaurants (A-R) 4 Pines at The Farm

917 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7777

Breakfast, Lunch + Dinner 7 Days

Baumé Restaurant, Café Bar

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

Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Thurs–Mon

Binnorie Dairy

25 Lodge Road, Lovedale. PH 4998 6660

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Bistro Molines

749 Mount View Road, Mount View. PH 4990 9553

Lunch Thurs–Mon 12PM–3PM; Dinner Sat (Open Fri Dinner or Midweek by Special Request)

Blaxland Inn

2198 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7550

Lunch Wed–Sun 12PM–3PM; Dinner 7 Nights 5PM–8PM

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

Easy Street Collective

16 Pokolbin Mountains Road, Pokolbin. PH 0468 335 114

Wed, Thurs, Sun 12PM–6PM; Fri + Sat 12PM–10PM

Éléments

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

Dinner 7 Days 5:30PM–9PM

eRemo Restaurant

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

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

EXP. Restaurant

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

Dinner Fri–Mon From 5:30PM

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

Wed–Fri 9AM–4PM; Sat 9AM–3:30PM; Sun 9AM–3PM

Great Northern Trading Post

3718 Great North Road, Laguna. PH 4998 8244

Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Fri & Sat from 6pm

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

Hunters Quarter

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

Lunch Fri–Sun 11:30AM–3PM; Dinner Fri & Sat 5:30PM–10:30PM

Hunter Valley Chocolate Company

2320 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 6999; Peterson House, Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7301

7 Days (See Website or Call)

Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop

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

Sun–Thurs 10AM–5PM; Fri + Sat 10AM–5:30PM

Huntlee Tavern

3 Empire Street, Branxton. PH 8866 1899

7 Days

Joy Asian Kitchen

220 Vincent St, Cessnock. PH 4990 1070

Lunch 7 Days 12PM–3PM; Dinner 7 Days 5:30–8:30PM

Lovedale Bar & Grill

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

7 Days from 11AM

Lovedale Smokehouse & Café

64 Majors Lane, Lovedale. PH 4930 7832

Lunch Thurs–Mon 11AM–4PM

Margan Restaurant

1238 Milbrodale Road, Broke. PH 6579 1317

Lunch Fri–Sun; Dinner Fri + Sat

Mockingbird Cafe Hunter Valley

477 Lovedale Road, Lovedale. PH 0478 704 800

Thurs–Mon 8AM–4PM

Mount Broke Wines/Bistro

130 Adams Peak Road, Broke. PH 6579 1314

Lunch Sat + Sun 11:30AM–3PM; Dinner Fri from 5:30PM

Muse Kitchen

Cnr Hermitage & Deasys Roads, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7899

Lunch Wed–Sun 12PM-3PM; Dinner Sat 6PM-9PM

Myrtle & Stone

2877 Wollombi Road, Wollombi. PH 4998 3220

Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Thurs–Sat

Oak & Vine Cypress Lakes

15 Thompsons Road, Pokolbin. PH 4993 1555

Wed–Sat 6PM–9PM

Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant

Roche Estate, Cnr McDonalds & Broke Roads, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7051

Lunch 7 Days 11:30AM–3PM; Dinner 7 Days 5:30PM–9:30PM

Redsalt Restaurant

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

Breakfast 7 Days, Dinner Thurs– Sun 5:30PM–10:30PM (Bookings essential)

Restaurant Botanica

Spicer's Vineyards Estate, 555 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin. PH 6574 7229

Lunch Fri–Sun 12PM–3PM; Dinner 7 Days 6PM–10PM

10 | ISSUE #18 2022

Quick Index to Cafés and Restaurants (R-Z) Restaurant Cuvee

103

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

Breakfast + Lunch 7 Days

Restaurant Eighty Eight

88 Halls Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 4999

Breakfast 7 Days 8AM–10AM; High Tea Sat + Sun 12PM-4PM

Restaurant Kawul

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

Fri + Sat 8AM–8:30PM; Mon, Thurs, Sun 8AM–3PM

Route 33 Café

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

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

The Cellar Restaurant

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

Lunch + Dinner Mon–Sat; Open Sun by Arrangement

The Brokenback Bar - Estate Tuscany

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

7 Days 12PM–9PM

The Deck Café

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

Breakfast + Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Fri + Sat

The Gates Restaurant - Leogate Estate

1693 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7499

Lunch Thurs–Mon 11:30AM–3:30PM; Dinner Fri + Sat 6PM–9PM

The Mill Restaurant - Estate Tuscany

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

Breakfast 7 Days; Lunch Fri–Sun; Dinner 7 Days

Wandin Kitchen

12 Wilderness Road, Lovedale. PH 4930 9888

Lunch Wed–Sun; Dinner Fri & Sat; Brunch Sundays from 8:30AM

Quick Index to Providores and Gourmet Produce (A-Z) Adina Vineyard

492 Lovedale Road, Lovedale PH 4930 7473

7 Days 10AM–5PM

Binnorie Dairy Fat Cow Cheese Shop

25 Lodge Road, Lovedale. PH 4998 6660

7 Days 10AM–5PM

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–4:30PM

Hunter Valley Chocolate Company

2320 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 6999; Peterson House, Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7301

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

Sun–Thurs 10AM–5PM; Fri + Sat 10AM–5:30PM

Lovedale Smokehouse & Cafe

64 Majors Lane, Lovedale. PH 4930 7832

Thurs–Mon 11AM–4PM

Pukara Estate

Shop 5, Peppers Creek Village, 1946 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 0408 144 149

7 Days 9:30AM–4:30PM

River Flats Estate

500 Wollombi Road, Broke. PH 0409 791 063

Thurs–Sun 10AM–5PM

Tintilla Estate

725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin. PH 6574 7093

7 Days 10.30AM–6PM

Wedding and Event Venues (A-Z) Ben Ean

119 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin. PH 4993 3700. www.benean.com.au

Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley

430 Wine Country Road, Lovedale. PH 4991 0000. www.crowneplazahuntervalley.com.au

Estate Tuscany

Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7288. www.estatetuscany.com.au

Leogate Estate

1693 Broke Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 7499. www.leogate.com.au

Hunter's Dream

149 Deasys Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 6509. www.huntersdream.com.au

Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort

15 Thompsons Road, Pokolbin. www.oakshotels.com

Tamburlaine Organic Wines

358 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 4202. www.tamburlaine.com.au

The Convent Hunter Valley

88 Halls Road, Pokolbin. PH 4998 4999. www.convent.com.au

The Woodhouse Wollombi

2674 Paynes Crossing Road, Wollombi. PH 0413 003 656. www.thewoodhousewollombi.com.au

Wandin

12 Wilderness Road, Lovedale. PH 4930 9888. www.wandin.com.au ISSUE #18 2022 | 11

WHAT'S

On? Regular Markets HANDMADE IN THE HUNTER

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

BROKE VILLAGE MARKET

McNamara Park, Broke, 8am–1pm 1st 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

TASTY FOOD MARKET Kevin Sobels, 9am–2pm 4th Sunday of each month

SLOW FOOD EARTH MARKET

The Levee, Maitland, 8am–1pm, 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month. Market dates subject to change, check individual markets online.

12 | ISSUE #18 2022

April

HV GIN & JAZZ FESTIVAL SAT 2 + SUN 3 APR, HOPE ESTATE The swinging sounds of all day live Jazz will return to Hope Estate’s amphitheatre surrounded by tasting tents serving Hope Distillery’s newest creations alongside the most popular drops from their current gin range. There'll also be gin masterclasses, cocktails & slushies, food vendors, market stalls, live entertainment and more! Find tickets and more info at www.hopeestate.com.au MEGA CREATURES SAT 2 APR - SUN 1 MAY, HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS See all your favourite dinosaurs, dragons and creepy crawlies, including the giant T-Rex, Stegosaurus, Triceratops, Spinosaurus and more. Visit during the day or at night when specialty lighting will illuminate the pre-historic beasts to create a thrilling spectacle. Book tickets online via www.huntervalleygardens.com.au A LITTLE BIT OF ITALY IN BROKE FRI 29 APR - SUN 1 MAY, BROKE The much loved festival in true Italian style is back! Enjoy the incredible food and wine experiences while you explore the best kept secret corner of the Hunter Valley. This all-new festival concept allows you to experience the best of the Broke Fordwich wine region, the superb wines, stylish cellar doors and artisan food offerings over one great weekend. Visit www.brokefordwich.com.au/events/alittle-bit-of-italy for more information.

May

LOVEDALE LONG LUNCH SAT 14 + SUN 15 MAY, LOVEDALE Food and wine lovers are invited to discover the wonders of Lovedale. Enjoy a decadent line up of the Hunter Valley’s leading chef’s teamed up with seven of Lovedale’s finest wineries. There’ll be local entertainment for a weekend of foodie fun! For tickets, visit www.lovedalelonglunch.com.au

BEER & BBQ FESTIVAL SAT 28 + SUN 29 MAY, HOPE ESTATE Over two big days, the festival will showcase all that’s great about Beer & BBQ. There'll be over 40 varieties of beer to taste and an array of BBQ food vendors. A big weekend of smokers, roasters, spits, big trucks, amazing beer and BBQ delights … and, of course, the mechanical bull! The festival will also include a display by RAM Trucks Australia as well as some special guests running demonstrations and master classes. For tickets visit www.hopeestate.com.au/ hvbeerbbqfestival

June

HUNTER VALLEY WINE & BEER FESTIVAL SAT 18 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

PIGSTY IN JULY SAT 2 JULY, DASHVILLE Head to Dashville to celebrate all things warm, wintery and decadent. The over-18 event is a feast of quality up-beat live music, good beer, fine wines, naughty cocktails and mouth-watering food in the stunning seclusion of Lower Belford’s acclaimed venue, Dashville. Book online via www.dashville.com.au WINERY RUN SUN 17 JULY, WANDIN ESTATE Winery Run will offer a 1/2 marathon, 10.5km and 5km running events and the traditional Kids Marathon 2km event. Hosted by Wandin, the event will include a range of delectable food and delicious wine. Book your spot for a ‘Run and a Red’ at www.wineryrun.com

August

AROMA COFFEE & CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL SAT 13 + SUN 14 AUGUST, MAITLAND Featuring expert chocolatiers, talented baristas and the best of the region’s winemakers, the Coffee & Chocolate Festival is the perfect way to ward off

the winter chill. Indulge in a range of products from across the entire Hunter regions and beyond while you enjoy local entertainment. For more info, visit www.maitlandaroma.com.au.

September

SCULPTURE IN THE VINEYARDS SAT 10 - SUN 25 SEPTEMBER, WOLLOMBI The Festival is the longest-running regional outdoor sculpture exhibition in Australia. This free public exhibition features large scale and site-specific works, transforming participating vineyards into a series of spectacular temporary sculpture parks. The festival highlights the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the historic Wollombi Valley. END2END FESTIVAL SAT 17 SEPTEMBER, POKOLBIN Featuring 4 venues, 20 wineries, gourmet food, live music, celebrity chefs, bush tucker, Semillon and seafood, boutique beer and so much more, the End2End Festival will delight the senses and tickle the tastebuds. For tickets, visit www.end2endfestival.com.au

What’s On?

Visit

ISSUE #18 2022 | 13

Get Online

WITH WINE & DINE! If 2021 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!

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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 ISSUE #18 2022 | 15

Pokolbin North...

Tour Your Way Around Hermitage. ✓ Type of Business

✓ Also Available

DESTINATION 4 Pines at the Farm

Amazing food at Kawul Restaurant Image: Nikki To

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. 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.

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Blueberry Hill Vineyard

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Calais Estate

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Crossing Creek Estate

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De Iullis Wines

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Hunter Belle Cheese Room

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Hunter's Dream

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James Estate Wines

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Leogate Estate

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McCaffrey's Estate

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Muse Kitchen

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Oakvale Wines

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Pukara Estate

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The Gates Restaurant – Leogate Estate

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The Mill Restaurant – Estate Tuscany

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Thomas Wines

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Tintilla Estate

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Restaurant Botanica Restaurant Kawul – Calais Estate The Brokenback Bar – Estate Tuscany

The Trail offers an art gallery, 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 #18 2022 16 | POKOLBIN NORTH

Tintilla Estate. Image: Time Out

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HERMIT

BROKE RD

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MAP AND FEATURED DESTINATIONS

BROKE RD

WOLL OM

Nulkaba

MCDONALDS RD

Mount View Wollombi

WOLLOMBI

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

Cessnock

To Singleton

To Branxton

McCaffrey’s Estate IRONBARK HILL RD

RD T WAT ER

Restaurant Botanica

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HERMITAGE RD

OLD NORTH

Tintilla Estate COULSON RD

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4 Pines at The Farm

MISTLETOE LN

Hunter’s Dream

Thomas Wines

Crossing Creek Estate

DEASYS RD

Muse Kitchen

To Broke

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James Estate Wines BROKE RD

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12 Oakvale Wines Hunter Belle Cheese Room De Iuliis Wines

Blueberry Hill Vineyard

Leogate Estate The Gates Restaurant BROKE RD

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The Mill Restaurant The Brokenback Bar

Pukara Estate @ Peppers Creek Village

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Calais Estate Restaurant Kawul

UNTRY DR WINE CO

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Pokolbin South

WINE COUNTRY DR

Broke

POKOLBIN NORTH "AROUND HERMITAGE"

Lovedale WINE COUNRTY DR

MCDONALDS RD

YOU ARE HERE

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BOOK ONLINE

4 Pines at the Farm 917 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7777 www.4pinesatthefarm.com.au 4pines@huntervalley.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 Days; Taproom: 10AM–Late; Breakfast: 7.30AM–10.30AM; Lunch: 12PM–4PM; Dinner 6PM-8PM; Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Online bookings required PRICE RANGE $12 to $50

4 Pines was born a decade ago from a casual conversation between father & son, who simply wanted an exceptional beer. This presented an opportunity to build a little brewpub where all were welcome. Through lots of hard work, laughs & beers, we made some friends & our little community grew & grew.

Welcome to our home of exceptional beer and awesome food.

MAP REF:

Blueberry Hill Vineyard 999 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7295 www.blueberryhill.com.au wine@blueberryhill.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Thurs to Mon 10AM–5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday GROUPS Bookings preferred, maximum 15 PRICE GUIDE From $28–$60/bottle MAP REF:

Calais Estate 151 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998 7654

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

18 | POKOLBIN NORTH

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.

www.calaiswines.com.au cellardoor@calaiswines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM–5PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Bookings Essential PICNICS 7 Days 11AM–4PM – Bookings Essential RESTAURANT KAWUL Thursday to Monday – Breakfast & Lunch Friday & Saturday – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 1st Sunday of the Month – Locals Night COME WHAT MAY HOMEWARES & GIFTS Friday to Sunday 10am–5pm Some products available through Cellar Door 7 days

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BOOK ONLINE

Blueberry Hill is a long-established vineyard, growing fruit for over 50 years. We craft boutique, uniquely styled wines from the Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet, Merlot, Pinot Noir & Shiraz vines surrounding our Cellar Door. We are open 5 days a week for wine tastings overlooking the picturesque vineyards and onto a stunning view of the Brokenback Ranges.

BOOK ONLINE

Crossing Creek Estate 319 Deasys Road, Rothbury PH 0427 112 891

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De Iuliis Wines 1616 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4993 8000

Hard to pronounce. Exceptional to drink.

As one of the Hunter Valleys top producers, the De Iuliis family create wines of excellence and outstanding quality. Their innovative winemaking has seen a vast array of awards and great reviews bestowed upon them. Join De Iuliis for one of their wine tasting experiences in their Pokolbin cellar door. Enjoy flights of their small-batch and handcrafted wines with their friendly team. Go behind-thescenes with a bookable winery tour experience and discover the winemaking process from grape to glass.

www.dewine.com.au cellardoor@dewine.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM–5PM Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Up to 10 welcome WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Pecorino RED WINES Rosé, Shiraz, Shiraz Touriga, Merlot, Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon SPARKLING WINES Sparkling Chardonnay AWARDS 5 Red star James Halliday Rating 2010-2022, Awarded 6 trophies Hunter Valley Wine Show 2021 including ‘Best Red of the Show’, ‘Best Shiraz’ & ‘Best Single Vineyard Red’ WINEMAKER Mike De Iuliis PRICE GUIDE $25–$150/bottle

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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. Book in for our daily High Cheese or one of our tasting experiences; Wine & Cheese, Beer & Cheese or the picturesque Picnic (all must be booked online). We offer a huge award-winning range including creamy bries, flavoursome fetas and bold cheddars as well as decadent fudge and gelato. Come and discover Hunter Belle today!

BOOK ONLINE

www.crossingcreek.com.au kate@crossingcreek.com.au OPENING HOURS Fri–Sun 10AM–3PM, Groups welcome Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday WINE VARIETIES Semillon, Chardonnay, Rosé, Shiraz PRICE GUIDE From $20–$47/bottle

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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Come and sit under the umbrellas and gaze over the beautiful Brokenback mountain range, or relax in front of the fire in our cosy cellar door. All our wines are proudly single vineyard, small batch wines. Come for a tasting and stay a while, enjoy the serenity of our space that is tucked away not far from the heart of Pokolbin. Awards: Semillon – Medal at Hunter Single Vineyard Wine Show, Chardonnay – Medal at Cowra Single Vineyard Show

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www.huntersdream.com.au/cellar enquiries@huntersdream.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Mon to Sat 10AM–4.30PM Closed Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Christmas & Boxing Day; Bookings required for all public holidays GROUPS Welcome. Bookings required for bus tour groups WHITE WINES & ROSÉ Semillon, SemillonSauvignon 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–$150

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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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

OAK7757 Cypress Lakes Ads Half Page 182x114mm.indd 1 20 | POKOLBIN NORTH

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BOOK ONLINE

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

BOOK ONLINE

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 Each lodge is elegantly decorated and as distinctive as the estate wines. Providing a generously proportioned bedroom, with master ensuite and spacious veranda, making it ideal to sit back and take in the beautiful views of the sweeping vineyard and Brokenback Mountain with a glass of wine in hand. For further information go to leogate.com.au

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

LEOGATE ESTATE LODGE

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 Lodge provides the perfect location for a luxurious and relaxing getaway in the wine country. Known for its highly awarded premium wines, fine dining restaurant and glamorous wedding venue, Leogate is proudly welcoming guests to stay on the estate. The Lodge has 20 luxury lodges available, each with an irresistible view overlooking the Brokenback chardonnay vineyard. Centrally located on the estate the lodges are conveniently positioned to provide a private getaway while still giving access to all Leogate Estate facilities and experiences. Leogate Estate is only a few minutes drive from central Polkolbin.

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Indulge in one of our Cellar Door Wine Tasting Experiences. Enjoy our James Estate award winning wines, paired with Australian Made Chocolates and Cheeses, hand selected by Winemaker Jack and individually guided by one of our Cellar Door staff members! Still hungry? Grab a light lunch! Add it to your ‘must visit list’!

www.jamesestatewines.com.au pokolbin@jamesestatewines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 days, 10AM–4PM, closed Christmas Day GROUPS Online bookings essential WINE VARIETIES White, Red and Sparkling Wines available for tasting PRICE GUIDE $20–$38/bottle MAP REF:

5PM

BOOK ONLINE

James Estate Wines 1142/1210 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7992

BOOK ONLINE

m.au

McCaffrey’s Estate 614 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin PH 0487 809 888 www.mccaffreysestate.com.au wine@mccaffreysestate.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Friday to Monday, 10AM–5PM, Online bookings highly recommended GROUPS Bookings essential for 6+ (maximum 10)

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Declan & Danielle McCaffrey welcome you their family owned and operated vineyard. It is one of the smaller producers in the Hunter Valley creating premium hand-crafted wines for all occasions. Be sure to book in for a relaxed tasting of their single vineyard boutique wines. The property has award winning selfcontained cottage accommodation for guests to enjoy their own experience relaxing amongst the vines.

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

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.

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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 $95 per person AWARDS SMH Good Food Guide; One Chefs Hat 2013–2019 HEAD CHEF Joshua Gregory

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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 to Saturday: 10:00am to 4:30pm. Bookings are required for all public holidays. P 02 4998 6509 E enquiries@huntersdream.com.au W www.huntersdream.com.au/cellar

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Pukara Estate Shop 5, Peppers Creek Village, 1946 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 0408 144 149 Pukara Estate Pokolbin is located at Peppers Creek Village and is centrally located in Pokolbin’s wine and tourism district in the Hunter Valley. Visitors have the opportunity to experience the full range of Pukara Estate products as well as the Earth & Grace skincare line and a selection of other complimentary goods.

www.pukaraestate.com.au info@pukaraestate.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 days 9.30AM–4.30PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday GROUPS Welcome PRICE GUIDE Olive oil from $18.50, vinegar from $24.50 MAP REF:

Restaurant Botanica Spicers Vineyards Estate, 555 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin PH 6574 7229 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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www.restaurantbotanica.com.au reception.vineyards@spicersretreats.com OPENING HOURS Lunch Fri–Sun 12PM–3PM; Dinner 7 Days 6PM–10PM. 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 MAP REF:

BOOK ONLINE

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.

BOOK ONLINE

Hand crafted, minimal intervention wines

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

BOOK ONLINE

Oakvale Wines 1596 Broke Road Pokolbin PH 4998 7088

BOOK ONLINE

Restaurant Kawul At Calais Estate, 151 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998 7333

The Brokenback Bar Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane Pokolbin PH 4998 7288 With stunning vineyard and mountain views, The Brokenback Bar is the perfect rest stop, located on the grounds of Estate Tuscany offering a relaxed ambiance of indoor (open fireplace) and alfresco dining; 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.

www.estatetuscany.com.au reservations@estatetuscany.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 Days, 12PM–9PM DINING STYLE Seasonal menu with emphasis on sharing and seasonal produce. GROUPS Welcome, banquet menus available for groups 10+ MAP REF:

The Mill Restaurant Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane Pokolbin PH 4998 7288 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.

www.estatetuscany.com.au reservations@estatetuscany.com.au OPENING HOURS BREAKFAST 7 Days 8AM–10:30AM; LUNCH Fri, Sat & Sun 12PM–3PM; DINNER 7 Days from 6PM; Bookings essential DINING STYLE Two and three course menu or five course tasting menu available MAP REF:

BOOK ONLINE

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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 local 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 most dietary requirements, with particular talent for vegan dishes.

www.kawul.com.au bookings@kawul.com.au OPENING HOURS Friday & Saturday 8AM–8:30PM Monday, Thursday, Sunday 8AM–3PM 1st Sunday of the month - Locals Night 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–$40

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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 DISCOVERY experience is a fun and

informative tasting, highlighting the stylistic diversity that can be achieved within the Hunter Valley’s signature varieties. This seated tasting includes four Semillon and four Shiraz.

THE EXPLORER is the most popular

experience. This premium tasting explores the diversity that exists between individual vineyard Semillon and Shiraz with a focus on Thomas Wines benchmark wines. This tasting is focused on the top end of their range.

THE JOURNEY. Your host will guide you

through a structured journey of the entire range, discussing the influence of soils, and other aspects that contribute to the unique personality of Thomas Wines. This experience is for those with a passion for Semillon and Shiraz.

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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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olives, olives, olives Come visit us for a range of Estate Grown Olives, Tapenade and local olive oils or a Cheese platter on the deck with a glass of wine Bookings are a MUST! 26 | POKOLBIN NORTH

725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley www.tintilla.com.au #tintillaestate

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Thomas Wines is one of the Hunter Valley’s most renowned winemakers, acclaimed for its exceptional Hunter Valley Semillon and Shiraz. Our tasting experiences focus on these signature varieties. Your host will explain how soils, vine age and winemaking techniques result in the unique personalities found in their wines.

4 Pines at The Farm AN EXCITING NEW DESTINATION FOR WINE, FOOD AND BEER LOVERS {AND OPEN 7 DAYS FOR BREKKIE, LUNCH & DINNER!} When the Helé family purchased the Hunter Valley Resort on Hermitage Road in 1991, the long-time hospitality operators introduced bistro dining to the Hunter Valley. Now, to mark their 30th anniversary in the Hunter, the Helé's have taken bistro dining up another notch, teaming up with 4 Pines Brewing Company to bring their established brand to the Hunter Valley, creating the regions most extensive craft beer and dining outlet and an exciting new destination hub for wine, food and beer lovers. It's a farm-come resort and taproom with a bistro and adventure centre all in one. Set amidst the 55-year-old vineyards, the 30-hectare property has become a playground for locals and visitors alike. It's not only home to 4 Pines at The Farm but Hunter Valley Resort, Hunter Farm and Adventure Centre and Hunter Valley Horse Riding. Visitors can choose to stay the day or stay awhile with simple yet stylish accommodation, just a short walk from the brand new 4 Pines at the Farm taproom.

The taproom takes pride of place overlooking the wondrous valley, with more than 600 sqm of entertainment space ready to serve its popular beers to thirsty travellers. Here you can sit back and take in a bird's eye view of the valley from the expansive wrap-around verandah, serving food and beer (and wine, of course) to you seven days a week. There are twelve 4 Pines beers on tap, including the famed Pale Ale, Extra Refreshing Ale, Pacific Ale, In Season IPA and a rotating, small-batch limited edition Keller Door – plus the popular Brookvale Union Ginger Beer. Of course, there is no shortage of local Hunter Valley wine and a selection of cocktails, while the chef and hospitality team have worked closely with 4 Pines to match the beers to each menu item. There's something for everyone, from burgers, to pizza to Aussie pub classics. With a capacity of 300 people over the vast indoor and outdoor spaces, 4 Pines at the Farm has retained the aesthetic and feel of their existing hospitality venues with clever use of recycled timber and a weathered façade, plus a bespoke mural painted alongside the bar. The venue is available for walk-ins, but on weekends and during peak season, bookings are recommended. The venue can also accommodate private group bookings across a selection of spaces within the venue, including a private dining room for up to 20 seated guests. Down on the farm, just a short stroll from the taproom, you'll find Hunter Farm & Adventure Centre, where adults and kids can be entertained for hours with an interactive farm walk and tractor ride. They can also get amongst the action with pony rides, trail rides, tractor rides, hay bale rides, horse and carriage rides, Segway tours, educational adventures and more. Hunter Farm is a definite Hunter Valley first - a venue that offers something to everyone. A tap bar and bistro, 4-star accommodation, farm animals, horse riding, carriage rides, Segway rides, workshops, wine tastings, beer school, and so much more. Open seven days a week, you'll find this wonderland on the corner of Hermitage Road and Mistletoe Lane. Visit www.HunterValley.com.au. ISSUE #18 2022 | 27

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

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Pokolbin South... DESTINATION

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Baumé Restaurant, Café, Bar - Ben Ean

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Bonvilla Estate

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Circa 1876

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Dirt Candy Wine

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Drayton's Family Wines

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Easy Street Collective

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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. 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 #18 2022 30 | POKOLBIN SOUTH

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Elbourne 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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Cypress Lakes Bistro & Bar

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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The Cellar Restaurant

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eRemo Restaurant

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Hungerford Hill

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Hunters Quarter

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Ernest Hill Wines

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EXP. Restaurant

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Fat Cow Cheese Shop Fawk Foods Kitchen & Bakery Foghorn Brewery

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Gigi & Chix Bonbon Patisserie Harrigan’s Hunter Valley

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Hope Estate/Brewery/Distillery

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Hunter Valley Chocolate Company

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Iron Gate Estate

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M&J Becker Wines

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McGuigan Wines

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McLeish Estate

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Mount Pleasant

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Oak & Vine Cypress Lakes

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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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Restaurant Cuvee – Peterson House 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

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

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Pokolbin Village EXP. Restaurant Fawk Foods Kitchen & Bakery Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop

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Hunter Valley Gardens Village Gigi & Chix Bonbon Patisserie Small Mouth Vodka The Cellar Restaurant

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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 pizzas. Whilst you’re visiting, our Cellar Door has an extensive wine selection, which caters to every wine enthusiast. We host some of the Hunter Valley’s best known wines such as Petersons Wines, Savannah Estate, Lisa McGuigan, Lindeman’s, Penfolds, Two Rivers and more! Before you leave, indulge yourself upstairs with cheese, chocolate and olive oil 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 (Cellar Door & Restaurant) GROUPS Welcome. Bookings essential for large groups. Maximum of 10 for cellar door 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 Blaxland Inn is known for its hearty meals friendly staff and country comfort atmosphere. Relax and enjoy an all-round experience of food, boutique wines and craft beers. Open for lunch and dinner five days a week, Blaxland Inn is the perfect place to stop and enjoy what the Hunter Valley has to offer. Famous for its steak range and hearty foods, like our sumptuous signature homemade pie, or our popular garlic prawn, there is something for everyone here at Blaxland Inn. Don’t forget that we offer a local courtesy bus for all our guests within a 10-minute radius. The bus seats up to 11 people and is available for pick up and drop off from 6pm. Blaxland Inn welcomes you to dine with us at our country estate. Bring your friends, family, and immerse yourself in the world of good food and wine.

www.blaxlandinn.com.au info@blaxlandinn.com.au OPENING HOURS Lunch Wed to Sun 12PM–3PM; Dinner 7 Nights 5PM–8PM 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, country comfort, steak house SPECIALITIES Steaks, smoked meats, beers, wines and caters for all dietary needs MENTION THIS AD WHEN BOOKING AND RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY BEER TASTING PADDLE!

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Bonvilla Estate 534 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin PH 4089 2250 www.bonvillaestate.com.au donald@bonvillaestate.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Wednesday to Sunday 10AM–5PM Closed Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Maximum 8 per group WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho RED WINES Shiraz, Rose SWEET WINES Moscato, Off dry Semillon PRICE RANGE From $25–$40 p/b

our beautiful downstairs living area overlooking our Shiraz vines. Check our website and social media for the many special events we are planning for 2022. Drink. Stay. Play

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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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Visit Bonvilla Estate and enjoy some of the most spectacular views in the valley. We would like to welcome you to come and try our new 2021 vintage which has been very well received. Book in for a tasting or arrange a romantic picnic in the vines and appreciate all Bonvilla Estate has to offer. You may even see one the estate’s foxes or kangaroos. Bring the family or friends and stay in our recently renovated 5 bedroom residence which can accommodate up to 10 people. We offer all our guests the opportunity to book a private tasting with a gourmet platter in the privacy of

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:

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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:

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

Dirt Candy Wine 555 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin PH 0431 221 735 Dirt Candy is a husband and wife run, smallbatch, artisan wine producer based in the Hunter Valley. Our family friendly cellar door showcases our unique range of wines including Pet Nats, natural, minimal intervention and vegan options. Our winemaking philosophy is simple: to create unique wines to be enjoyed with great food and great friends. 2019 Young Gun of Wine “Danger Zone” Award Winner.

www.dirtcandy.com.au cellardoor@dirtcandy.com.au OPENING HOURS Thurs–Mon 10AM–5PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS By appointment only, max 10 PRICE GUIDE $30–$60/bottle

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Drayton’s Family Wines 555 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7513 Pioneers of the Hunter – Since 1853 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.

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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

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Easy Street Collective 16 Pokolbin Mountains Rd, Pokolbin PH 0468 335 114 Created from a couple of work colleagues that came together to create an alcoholic hard seltzer to have after a long day of work in the blistering Australian Summer, they wanted something that they could easily get, easily drink and easily enjoy with their friends…that’s how Easy Street Collective began. Enjoy the friendly and relaxed atmosphere with breathtaking views. There are a range of food options designed to be shared amongst friends. The distillery boasts the first locally produced Single Malt Whisky and Barrel Aged Rum and also has a dedicated Whisky and Rum room. We also boast a large range of craft spirits and beers with an additional spirit tasting room for Gins, Vodka and Liqueurs.

www.easystreetcollective.com.au hello@easystreetcollective.com.au OPENING HOURS Cellar Door Wednesday–Sunday 10AM–4PM Restaurant/Bar Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday 12PM–6PM; Friday & Saturday 12PM–10PM Opening hours subject to change. Closed Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Christmas Day & Boxing Day. GROUPS Bookings for large groups preferred DISTILLER Lucas Cattell PRICE RANGE From $8–$200+

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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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Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village is a unique collection of bespoke shops offering everything from delicious melas, lunchtime treats, coffee and wine to stunning glassware, jewellery and unique clothing. Come experience it for yourself and have a delightful day out exploring everything the Shopping Village has to offer!

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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 Spicers Guesthouse, 57 Ekerts Road, Pokolbin PH 4022 1801 www.eremo.com.au reception.guesthouse@spicersretreats.com OPENING HOURS Lunch 7 days, 11.30AM–4.30PM 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 duo of unique lighter style dessert wines. The Moscato style ‘Luna Spark’ and our late harvest Gewurztraminer ‘Moondance’. • Complete the tasting with our luscious liqueur Muscat, the 11 O’Çlocker.

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 enquiries@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) SPECIALTIES & AWARDS Reserve Wines: William Henry Shiraz, Rodney Merlot, Andrew Watson Tempranillo, Alexander Chardonnay Selected Parcels: CEO Shiraz and CEO Cabernet Sauvignon PRICE RANGE From $20–$75/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 Friday to Monday, from 5.30PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Are welcome and private dining is available DINING STYLE Contemporary Australian tasting menu shining light on the best the Hunter region has to offer PRICE GUIDE From $125

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 Wednesday–Friday 9AM–4PM; Saturday 9AM–3.30PM; Sunday 9AM– 3PM. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays Open Mondays during School Holidays. 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 light meals, brunch, high tea, French pastries, coffee from the grounds of Alexandria, local and imported wines, handmade chocolate and treats for dining in or take away. We also have ice cream and cheese! So, discover our patisserie at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village today!

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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

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Hungerford Hill 2450 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7666

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

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

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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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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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 ($44pp), or enjoy pizza, cheese and charcuterie plates SPIRITS Gin, Vodka, Moonshine, Ouzo, Liqueurs, Schnapps and Seltzers BEER/CIDER Lager, Pale Ale, XPA, IPA, Pacific Lager/Pale Ale, Stouts, Gluten Free Pilsner, NEIPA, Cider, Sours + more! WINES 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, Pinot Noir SPARKLING WINES Pinot Chardonnay, Sparkling Shiraz SWEET WINES Moscato 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. It’s home to award winning craft beer, Estate-grown wine, premium Australian grain spirits and 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 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 30 taps! Across our tap range you can find everything from hoppy ales, NEIPAs, sours, trophy-winning stouts, cider, seltzers and more! Can’t choose just four? We also offer a flight of 12 served with a cheese plate.

Wine

Our recently 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 two gin paddles or a vodka paddle. All served with a matching garnish, mixer 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!

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Hunters Quarter 576 De Beyers Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7776 www.huntersquarter.com.au info@huntersquarter.com.au OPENING HOURS Lunch Fri, Sat & Sun 11.30AM–3PM Dinner Fri & Sat 5.30PM–10.30PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Eve 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

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 two wine country locations to indulge in our fine range of unique chocolate products; one bite will keep you coming back for more!

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 GROUPS Bus groups welcome, bookings advised SPECIALTIES Hand made chocolates and fudge, candy, gourmet produce and gifts

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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.

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

Where every taste is an experience. Inspired by winemaking tradition, Iron Gate Estate is a boutique, award winning 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.

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 8 welcome with bookings WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay RED WINES Cabernets, Shiraz, Tempranillo, Rosé and blends SPARKLING Chardonnay, Rosé SWEET TABLE WINES Semillon/Verdelho, Shiraz and Fortified WINEMAKER Geoff Broadfield & Jade Hafey PRICE RANGE From $25–$450 p/b

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Ernest Hill Wines Premium Hunter Valley Wines One of the Hunter’s leading family owned and operated boutique wineries. Our wines are only available at our Cellar Door and selected restaurants.

Internationally Awarded Wines London, Vienna & Hong Kong Five Star Winery – James Halliday Hunter wines of Outstanding Quality Five Star Rating – Tripadvisor Family & Pet Friendly

“It’s our pleasure to be part of your wine journey” Open 10am to 5pm, 7 Days 307 Wine Country, Nulkaba PH (02) 49914418 E enquiries@ernesthillwines.com.au W www.ernesthillwines.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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McGuigan Wines 447 McDonalds Road Corner of Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 4111 Step inside the newly renovated home of McGuigan Wines. As soon as you walk through our front door you will be greeted by our welcoming and very knowledgeable cellar door staff. McGuigan Wines offers an extensive Cellar Door area which caters for large and small groups. We have both indoor and outdoor areas suitable for tastings with private tastings and experiences available to book via our website. We have something to offer all visitors from exclusive Cellar Door styles, with specialty packaging as well as wines in Magnums and larger bottles and award winning Museum Wines. Kids are also welcome. See you soon! Choose from a selection of an immersive tasting experiences and get behind the scenes with our Personal Reserve Package where you can experience a guided tour of our working winery. Walk ins are always welcome, or plan ahead and book a tasting experience in advance.

www.mcguiganwines.com.au hunter@mcguiganwines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM–5PM Closed Christmas Day & Good Friday GROUPS Up to 100 people, special experiences available WHITE WINES Viognier, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Moscato, Traminer, Verdelho, Chenin Blanc RED WINES Shiraz, Rosé, Merlot, GSM, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Camenere, Malbec SPARKLING Sparkling Merlot, Cuvée Sparkling, Petit Verdot Sparkling FORTIFIED WINE Tawny DESSERT WINE Botrytis Semillon WINEMAKER Peter Hall PRICE RANGE From $25–$1000/bottle

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McLeish Estate 462 De Beyers Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7754 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 DESSERT WINES Botrytis Semillon SPECIALTIES & AWARDS Specialising in Semillon & Shiraz PRICE RANGE From $25–$60 p/b

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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 7 Days 10AM–5PM GROUPS By appointment only WINEMAKER Adrian Sparks WHITE WINES Semillon, 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; Six Trophies at the 2018 & 2019 Hunter Valley Wine Show; 2021 Hunter Valley Viticulturalist of the Year PRICE RANGE $22 to $275/bottle

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McLeish Estate, in the heart of the Hunter Valley in Pokolbin, celebrates 37 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.

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Oak & Vine Cypress Lakes 15 Thompsons Rd, Pokolbin PH 4993 1555 www.oakshotels.com/en/oaks-cypresslakes-resort/oak-and-vine fbomcypresslakes@theoaksgroup.com.au OPENING HOURS Wednesday to Saturday 6PM–9PM, Closed Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Christmas Day GROUPS Bookings essential

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

Oishii Japanese and Thai at Roche Estate offers a welcome unique dining alternative in the Hunter Valley. The authentic Asian restaurant offers an award winning menu including popular 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

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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

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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Oak & Vine Cypress Lakes is the quintessential Hunter Valley dining experience. Sit back and relax in its casual atmosphere whilst enjoying bespoke menus showcasing the valley’s finest food and produce. The Sri Lankan inspired menus are unlike any other in the Valley. Each menu is lovingly hand crafted each season by the Executive Chef ensuring pairing perfection with the Hunter Valleys renowned wine.

www.petersonhouse.com.au bubbles@petersonhouse.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days, 9AM–5PM; All tastings are now seated. Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day GROUPS 8-14 people, booking online recommended 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, Rouge Lisse, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Brut Rosé FORTIFIED WINES Muscat WINEMAKER John Reid PRICE RANGE From $7–$70/bottle

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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 visit petersonswines.com.au to book your tasting or call 02 4998 7379.

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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Peterson House is often the first Hunter Valley Wineries visited on a trip to the Hunter Valley Vineyard Region. Situated on the corner of Wine Country Drive and the popular Broke Road, Peterson House winery is often called the gateway to the Hunter Valley. Our beautiful vineyard showcases everything you need when visiting wineries in the Hunter Valley. We have a charming Cellar Door boasting over 40 different varieties of sparkling wines, an award winning restaurant, a must join wine club, and multiple function centres including the stunning new Chapel and vineyard marquee, perfect for weddings and events.

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

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Pokolbin Cider House 2342 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 6722

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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 $55pp MAP REF:

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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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.

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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EXPERIENCE

yone with cocktails, share plates, brewery tours, live music and tasting paddles. Revel in the outdoor beer garden or relax indoors. It’s the perfe

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.

• LOVEDALE BAR + GRILL •

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

Refreshingly different, Lovedale Bar + Grill offers a welcoming menu complete with infusions of craft beers from our on-site brewery, Sydney Brewery Hunter Valley.

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

• HUNTER VALLEY GOLF •

• 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.

Lovedale Bistro to Lovedale Bar + Grill "Refreshingly diﬀerent, Lovedale ﬀers a welcoming menu complete with infusions of cra� beers from our wery, Sydney Brewery Hunter Valley. There is something for everyone ls, share plates, brewery tours, live music and tas�ng paddles. Revel in beer garden or relax indoors. It’s the perfect place for any occasion, mate."

CROWNE PLAZA HUNTER VALLEY 430 WINE COUNTRY DRIVE, LOVEDALE

CROWNEPLAZAHUNTERVALLEY.COM.AU | 02 4991 0000 | SWITCH.HUNTER@IHG.COM

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 was first established in 1966 by Dr Lance Allen. In 1985 our Hunter winery was purchased by a small group of friends and relatives led by Managing Director, Head of Grape and Wine Production, Mark Davidson. Through years of research and development we have now become one of Australia’s largest producers of organic wines with vineyards across the Hunter Valley and Orange regions. From vine to glass we work to lead the way with our Contemporary Organics vision, producing award-winning, organic, veganfriendly, low sulphur and no added sulphur wines.

www.tamburlaine.com.au info@tamburlaine.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 9AM–5PM. GROUPS Welcome with booking WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Fume Blanc RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Chambourcin, Grenache SPARKLING Pinot Chardonnay, Blanc de Blanc FORTIFIED Liqueur Muscat, Framboise (Raspberry Liqueur) AWARDS Awards for individual wines can be viewed on our website WINEMAKER Mark Davidson & Shannon Burgess-Moore PRICE RANGE From $18–$48 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 Prosecco, Sparkling Pinot Chardonnay, Chardonnay, Riesling, Fiano, Vermentino, Verdelho, Gewurztraminer, Sauvignon Blanc, Moscato, Semillon, Pinot Gris & Botrytis Semillon RED WINES Rosé, Shiraz, Gamay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet, Montepulciano & Shiraz Blends WINEMAKER Andrew Duff AWARDS Winestate Magazine Awards: Alternative White Wine of the Year – 2021 Copper Hunter Valley Verdelho; 2021 Tempus Two Gamay – 96 points; 2021 Copper Verdelho – 96 points; 2021 Tempus Two Copper Hunter Valley Semillon Sauvignon Blanc – 94 points. PRICE RANGE From $30–$700 p/b MAP REF:

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#tamburlaineorganicwines

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The Cellar Restaurant HVG Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 7584

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.

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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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!

12 Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba NSW 2325 (02) 4058 4188 hunter@foghornbrewery.com.au POKOLBIN SOUTH | 51

Oak & Vine

BRINGING FLAVOUR HOME TO THE HUNTER 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 52 | ISSUE #18 2022

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 now able to experience the signature fine-dining Oak & Vine Restaurant. The restaurant recently became the charge of Executive Sous Chef Vinura de Silva (also fondly known as Chef Vinnie), who comes to the role with over ten years experience in the 5-star hospitality industry and a passion for his native Sri-Lankan cuisine. “I added a few Sri-Lankan dishes to the menu and began to notice that diners were really enjoying them, “ said Chef Vinnie. “So, with management backing, we expanded the concept into a Sri-Lankan inspired fine dining restaurant, bringing in a local touch with marinations, garnishes and accompaniments and sticking to what I have been cooking since the start of my career, which is classical French cuisine.” Vinnie says his main focus is to bring in the vast flavours that make up Sri-Lankan cuisines and use different techniques to take it to new levels of culinary excellence. “When speaking about Sri-Lankan cuisine, the first thing that pops into anyone’s mind would be spices and curries,” says Vinnie. “But taking it to another level with spice could be one of two things. The first would be hot-hot spice, and the other could be using a variety of spices that, when compiled into a single dish, will create a burst of flavour from the first bite. That’s the SriLankan infused, fine-dining experience. “The restaurant, with my concept of Sri-Lankan infused dishes, is fairly new to Cypress Lakes but has been well received by our diners with ‘a regular guest’ clientele starting to become noticeable. I would love to have as many people come and try the dishes that mean something special to me and see that spice doesn’t necessarily mean ‘hot’ but really well-balanced flavour profiles.”

Vinnie's journey in hospitality started at the age of 17 when he studied at the Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management, followed by an industry placement at the Hilton Colombo. Following the placement, he joined the kitchen Apprentice Program at the Hilton Colombo – a three-year program that involved changing kitchens every three months along with practical and theory exams that Vinnie says exposed him to a vast array of cuisines and provided an opportunity to work under many skilled chefs at the same time. Once completing the program, Vinnie moved to Bahrain, joining the Rotana chain of hotels and then on to the Kandima Maldives. This was followed by another stint in Colombo, where he also returned to his studies. Fast forward to late 2019, which saw Chef Vinnie arrive in Australia, where he joined Oaks Cypress Lakes as a Chef de Partie and was later promoted to Sous Chef and the Executive Sous Chef/Head Chef of the Oak & Vine. As his first home in Australia, Vinnie says that the Hunter Valley has been simply amazing. “The people and friends that I have met on this journey of two and a half years have really carved a special spot in me. It became my home straight away.” The Oak & Vine is open 4 days a week from Wednesday to Saturday. Bookings are essential, call 4993 1555. To make a

real night of it, why not relax and enjoy pre-dinner drinks in the Cypress Lakes Members Lounge – a staple cocktail bar of the valley featuring the best local wine, locally distilled spirits and locally brewed beers along with the staple classics for the international traveller.

ISSUE #18 2022 | 53

Lovedale & Branxton... The Heart of the Hunter Valley. ✓ Type of Business

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DESTINATION Adina Vineyard

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Allandale Winery

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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. 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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De Bortoli Wines

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deCapel Wines

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Gartelmann Wines

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Huntlee Tavern

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Lovedale Bar + Grill

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Lucy's Run Wines

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Mockingbird Cafe Hunter Valley

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Pierre's Wines

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Redsalt Restaurant

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Sydney Brewery Hunter Valley

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Stomp! Wines

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Thirsty Palette Wines

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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. 54 | LOVEDALE & BRANXTON

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Lovedale Smokehouse & Café Image: Elfes Images

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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, 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

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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, Mourvèdre, 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 7+ 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, Cabernet Sauvignon, Mourvèdre SPARKLING Sparkling Gewürztraminer, Blanc et Noir WINEMAKERS Bill Sneddon & Alex Woods PRICE RANGE From $20–$60/pb

WINERY AND VINEYARDS

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Adina offers an authentic Mediterranean experience in the heart of Lovedale. Specialising in Italian varietals, our wine selection is something different and well worth a try. With over 2,000 olive trees on site, we are the largest producer of olives and olive oils in the region. Our entire Providore and Olive ranges (produced on site) are also available for tasting. Visit our cellar door 7 days a week and enjoy a glass of wine and a cheese board overlooking our olive trees. Please call 4930 7473 to book your experience.

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 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. Enjoy delicious house made Ricotta Cheesecake and Tiramisu or grab a picnic box with cheese and crackers and a glass, or bottle, of local wine. Sit on the deck and take in the tranquil view or better yet, bring a picnic blanket and spread it out under the shade of a gum tree.

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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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deCapel Wines 101 Majors Lane, Keinbah PH 0419 994 299 or 0409 975 073 deCapel Wines provides a unique, personal wine tasting experience sitting on our verandah overlooking the garden, dam, vineyard and distant hills. We are a family operated vineyard and carefully hand-pick every grape to make our Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz, and have just added a delicious Rosé to our range. Come and join us for a relaxing and enjoyable experience at our vineyard.

www.decapelwines.com.au decapel@bigpond.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Fri–Sun 10AM–4PM by appointment only, Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday GROUPS Bookings essential WINE VARIETIES Semillon, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Rosé PRICE RANGE $25–$45/bottle MAP REF:

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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, Dinner Fri & Sat 5:30pm–7:30pm 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 to Low n Slow barbecue such as ribs, brisket and wings. You’ll also find your favourite food truck dishes such as burgers, nachos, hoagies, fish & chips and tacos. We have over 30 craft beer and ciders, plus spirits, wines and barista made coffee. Enjoy a relaxed lunch in our air-conditioned dining room or in our covered courtyard set amongst lush gardens and vineyard views. Our whole menu is also available for on-site picnics and takeaway.

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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

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Huntlee Tavern 3 Empire Street, Branxton PH 8866 1899 www.huntleetavern.com.au info@huntleetavern.com.au OPENING HOURS Mon–Wed 7AM–12AM Thurs–Sat 7AM–1AM Sun 8AM–12AM Drive Thru Bottleshop Mon-Sun 10AM-10PM Closed Christmas Day DINING STYLE Casual dining, functions and events. Our Gastropub favourites are made from locally sourced products providing a complete farm to plate experience. We cater to all dietary requirements GROUPS Welcome with booking MAIN MEAL PRICE GUIDE $18–$50 FEATURES • Gastropub • Live Music & DJ’s • Bottleshop • Daily Specials • Takeaway Menu • Function Venue • Membership Options • Kids Play Areas • Courtesy Bus • TAB and Keno

Welcome to the award winning Huntlee Tavern. Our venue’s modern design has captured the elegance of the Hunter Valley in a unique, picturesque location adjacent to the vineyards. Built with recycled materials and boasting a breathtaking panoramic view, our open plan can cater for any occasion. Our highly dedicated chefs provide delicious cuisine made from locally sourced fresh produce and can cater for all dietary requirements. Come and try our worldfamous ribs, empire salad or Huntlee burger. The Lounge Bar showcases extensive tap beer, wines and delicious handmade cocktails. The Public Bar has all of your TAB and Keno facilities for your punting pleasures.

Weekend live entertainment starts with our R&B DJ’s on Friday, a live band playing all of your rock classics on Sunday, then chill out on Sundays with a solo artist playing in the early afternoon. Benefit from the prior booking of our courtesy bus for a safe travel between destinations. Plenty of features here for kids, including a children’s theatre and indoor children’s play areas. Enjoy the good times! Meet up at the Huntlee, the hub of the Hunter, and join in the chorus of locals referring to us one of the most beautiful hotels in Australia.

Good times at Huntlee Tavern! MAP REF:

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Lovedale Bar + Grill Crowne Plaza, 430 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale PH 4991 0947 Refreshingly different, Lovedale Bar + Grill offers a welcoming menu complete with infusions of craft beers from our on-site brewery, Sydney Brewery Hunter Valley. There is something for everyone with cocktails, share plates, brewery tours, live music and tasting paddles. Revel in the outdoor beer garden or relax indoors. It’s the perfect place for any occasion, large or intimate.

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:

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 MAP REF:

Mockingbird Café Hunter Valley 477 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale PH 0478 704 800 Mockingbird Café is the lovechild of husbandand-wife team James & Tess Borg – the creators of the multi award winning catering company Fennel & Co. Catering. Their passion for delicious food and incredible service have earned them a reputation throughout the wedding industry as the best caterers in Newcastle and The Hunter Valley. The success of their Fennel & Co. Catering eventually led them back to their initial dream of owning their own café/restaurant – and in early 2018 Mockingbird Café Newcastle was hatched! Tess & James aimed to create a café that was warm and welcoming, with creative menus and attentive service. Their cosy nest quickly became a favourite among locals and tourists. As good news travels, the reputation of Mockingbird made its way out to the Hunter Valley to the family run business that is Tatler Wines. The idea was hatched between the two families and this little birdy spread her wings and flew to Lovedale to build her second cosy nest in the heart of wine country.

www.mockingbirdcafehuntervalley.com.au info@mockingbirdnewcastle.com.au OPENING HOURS Thurs to Mon 8AM–4PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Good Friday & Easter Sunday GROUPS Welcome, set lunch menu available for 12+ groups DINING STYLE Breakfast and share style lunch dining PRICE GUIDE Mains from $16-$55

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60 | LOVEDALE & BRANXTON

Pierre’s Wines 82 Elderslie Road, Branxton PH 0417 433 193 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 make 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 award winning 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:

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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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 Mon, Wed, Thurs & Sun 10AM–4PM Fri & Sat 10AM–5PM MOCKINGBIRD CAFE Thurs to Mon 8AM–4PM GROUPS Walk ins of groups under 6 only, bookings available online. WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Botrytis Semillon, Riesling RED WINES Rosé, Merlot, Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Muscat, Pinot Shiraz & Cabernet, Shiraz Merlot Blend SPARKLING Frizzante Semillon, Frizzante Chardonnay Pinot Noir, Chardonnay Pinot 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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Thirsty Palette Wines 247 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale PH 0493 223 406

In the heart of Lovedale lies a picturesque rustic wine cellar, Thirsty Palette Wines, a boutique family-owned vineyard. We are dedicated to creating distinct, robust and memorable wines from grapes grown onsite. Visit and experience our eclectic range of wines, produce and homemade goods. Feel free to take a short walk down to the trellises of grapes, enjoy a picnic beside one of our beautiful dams and even play some games (quoits, ring toss…) which are available in the Cellar Door.

What’s On? Visit

thirstypalettewines@gmail.com WINE TASTING & SALES 10AM–5PM Friday & Saturday; Sun to Thurs by Appointment; Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Welcome WINE VARIETIES Chardonnay, Semillon, Off Dry Semillon, Shiraz, Frizzante Moscato, Botrytis Semillon WINEMAKER Dan Binet MAP REF:

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Tatler Wines 477 Lovedale Road, Lovedale PH 4930 9139

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

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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 info@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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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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WHITES

Top Drops

SAVANNAH ESTATE

2021 Hunter Valley Vermentino – RRP $27 (Members $22.95)

Savannah Estate Wines are produced from small select parcels of premium fruit grown in renowned viticulture regions throughout Australia. This Hunter Valley Vermentino is a light, mineral & salty drop that pairs best with our hot Australian Summer. TASTING Crunchy white peaches build the palate of this wine tightened and driven by the crisp zesty acid presented as finger lime caviar and homemade Meyer lemonade, elongated by agave nectar and fresh mandarin citrus & walnut oil on the finish. FOOD MATCH Spaghetti with herb crusted pan fried Barramundi, sardines on toast & grilled veg straight off the BBQ CELLARING Drink now to enjoy the vibrance of this wine or cellar for 6 to 8 years and allow some slippery and succulent textures to emerge.

CELLAR DOOR 358 McDonald’s Road, Pokolbin

Open 7 days | 9am to 5pm Lorem ipsum For bookings enquiries tamburlaine.com.au 02 4998 4222 64 | ISSUE #18 2022

TAMBURLAINE ORGANIC WINES

2021 Wine Lovers No Added Sulphur Pinot Gris – RRP $24 ($16/dozen, $14/two 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 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 and bright nashi pear, white florals and crisp acidity. 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.

WHITES

ERNEST HILL WINES

2021 Cyril Semillon – RRP $28

Dedicated to the patriarch of the Wilson Family “Cyril”, our Semillon is estate grown and handpicked from 50-year-old vines, which are low yielding but produce the highest quality fruit. A wonderful 2021 vintage resulted in a zingy fresh premium Hunter Semillon which is a must have for this summer. TASTING Lovely crisp citrus flavours of lemons & limes, a delicious palette cleanser that entices the tastebuds for more. FOOD MATCH Fresh seafood particularly Sydney rock oysters, Crystal Bay king prawns or fresh caught flathead. CELLARING Enjoy now or cellar up to 8-10 years.

Top Drops

MCLEISH ESTATE WINES

2013 Cellar Reserve Semillon – RRP $80

McLeish Estate, in the heart of the Hunter Valley in Pokolbin celebrates 37 years as the region’s most awarded boutique producer. Our 11ha, 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 restaurants. TASTING The Cellar Reserve Semillon 2013 displays a vibrant lemon grass freshness, coupled with rich toasty honey bottle aged notes. A focus of powerful fruit qualities are displayed on the palate with juicy fresh squeezed lemon, butter and lanolin softness. The palate is supported by fresh acidity which ensures a long length and a framework for the future. FOOD MATCH Freshly shucked oysters, kingfish sashimi and lobster mornay. CELLARING Drink now or cellar to 2033.

Celebrating 37 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 ISSUE #18 2022 | 65

REDS

Top Drops DRAYTON'S FAMILY WINES

2018 Vineyard Reserve Shiraz – RRP $35

Drayton’s Family Wines is one of the oldest, 100% family-owned producers of quality wines. Their range of wines is indicative of the Hunter’s best. The Shiraz grapes have been grown in Pokolbin and picked by hand. TASTING This wine is medium bodied, is brightly coloured with an array of berries pepper and spices on the nose combined with coffee aromas. The palate is soft and long with distinctly savoury characters, finishing with velvet tannins. It is a delicate wine, focused on balance and structure. FOOD MATCH A wine ideally suited to beef, spicy meats, veal, kangaroo & roast duck. CELLARING While the 2018 Shiraz can be consumed now you will be rewarded for cellaring to 2030 and beyond

GARTELMANN WINES

2016 Diedrich Shiraz – RRP $50

The Diedrich is our icon Shiraz, with fruit sourced from a single vineyard in the Orange wine region, full bodied and rich. TASTING Aromas of florals, red berried fruits and dusting of spice. Medium-weighted with supple, sleek tannins, lean acidity and plenty of ripe fruit in between. FOOD MATCH A style that marries well with rich red meats such as lamb shoulder or braised beef cheeks. CELLARING Drink now or cellar until 2025+

Pioneers of the Hunter since 1853

Brr it’s hot in here, there must be some 2018 Shiraz in the atmosphere!

The Drayton’s are one of the Hunter Valley’s pioneering winemaking families and one of the few wineries that are still family owned and operated. Over six generations the Drayton Family has contributed to the development of Hunter Valley Wine Country. Taste their legacy today.

555 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin | 02 4998 7513 | drink@draytonswines.com.au | www.draytonswines.com.au 66 | ISSUE #18 2022

REDS

Top Drops ADINA VINEYARD

Cabernet Franc 2021 – RRP $45

Adina wines are made from grapes grown on our Lovedale vineyard. The Cabernet Franc 2021 has a smooth rounded palate with a juicy centre, that finishes with a mineral acid freshness. TASTING Tasting of fruity red berries and pronounced aromas of red cherry, wild raspberries and fresh cut herbs, this is a magnificent single vineyard example of a Hunter grown Cabernet Franc. FOOD MATCH Enjoy slightly chilled to accompany cold cured meats, chicken and soft cheeses. CELLARING Drink now or cellar for at least 15 years

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 Drink now or cellar for up to 8 years

The Next Generation of Hunter Valley Wines Wine Tastings, Cheese Platters & Artisan Pantry

312 Mount View Road, Mount View | 02 4990 6326 | www.savannahestate.com.au | wine@savannahestate.com.au ISSUE #18 2022 | 67

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. 68 | ISSUE #18 2022

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

CELLAR DOOR | RESTAURANT | GIFT SHOP | EVENTS

Cheese & Wine Matchings - Handmade Condiments - Winemaking Sessions - Gourmet Picnics Calais Estate is a family run winery and cellar door with one of the longest boutique wine lists in the Hunter Valley. Home to the renowned Restaurant Kawul, serving native inspired cuisine and Come What May Homewares, specialising in locally made products, Calais also plays host to many memorable weddings and events. Wine taste, dine, shop and relax with a gourmet picnic in the beautiful Estate grounds, or get hands on with one of our unique wine experiences, from Winery long lunches and Locals Nights to making your own sparkling wine. Come and enjoy our country hospitality!

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

OPEN 7 DAYS 10AM - 5PM BOOK ONLINE

151 PALMERS LANE, POKOLBIN, NSW 2320

Mount View, Nulkaba & Cessnock... The Picturesque and Peaceful Corner of the Valley. ✓ Type of Business

✓ Also Available

DESTINATION

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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Bistro Molines

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Briar Ridge Vineyard

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Carillion Wines

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Foghorn Brewery

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Joy Asian Kitchen

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Kelman Vineyard

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Petersons Wines

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Saddler's Creek Wines

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Savannah Estate Wines

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Savannah Estate

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! 70 | MOUNT VIEW, NULKABA & CESSNOCK

Carillion Wines

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Wollombi

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

YOU ARE HERE

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Bistro Molines 749 Mount View Road, Mount View PH 4990 9553

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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.

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 $95 pp or 3 course min $115 pp

Briar Ridge Vineyard 593 Mount View Road, Mount View PH 4990 3670 CELLAR DOOR

Since 1972, Briar Ridge Vineyard has been bustling in the hills of Mount View, Hunter Valley. A 5-star James Halliday rated winery with award winning, classic and new-age Australianmade wines, this is a Cellar Door not to miss. The colourful and gregarious Cellar Door team tailors every standard tasting (which is served alongside a small complimentary nibble of local produce) to you! Extremely dog friendly, there is the option to spoil your fur-babies with a Pooch Platter. A must-visit destination that will prove to be the highlight of your Hunter Valley journey.

BRIAR RIDGE OSTERIA

In a space where you can spend hours relaxing, the newly refurbished Briar Ridge osteria, offers a table spread to satisfy your cravings. A menu filled with delicatessen charcuterie, artisan cheeses and home-made noshes. Come and take a seat on either the Terrace or picnic in the Wine Garden on bean bags and jute rugs. Locally-roasted coffee available here too!

www.briarridge.com.au cellardoor@briarridge.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM–5PM GROUPS Welcome by appointment MYSTERY VINEYARD EXPERIENCE 11AM & 2PM Fri–Sun, bookings essential BRIAR RIDGE OSTERIA Thurs-Mon, 11AM–4PM WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Fiano, Albarino, Gruner Veltliner, Pinot Gris, Viognier RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Barbera SPARKLING Chardonnay Pinot Noir OTHER WINES Moscato, Rose, Liqueur Muscat, Late Harvest Viognier Pinot Gris WINEMAKER Alex Beckett PRICE RANGE $25-$110/bottle

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Carillion Wines 749 Mount View Road, Mount View PH 4990 7535 Experience the magic of Mount View!

www.carillionwines.com.au cellardoor@carillionwines.com.au OPENING HOURS Thursday to Monday 10AM–5PM Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Welcome WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Vermentino, Sauvignon Blanc, Verduzzo, Fiano, Pinot Rosé RED WINES Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sagrantino, Aglianico, Montepulciano, Nero D’Avola SPARKLING WINES Blanc de Blancs, Petillant Rosé, Methode Traditionelle Chardonnay Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier FORTIFIED WINES Tawny WINEMAKER Andrew Ling PRICE GUIDE From $25–$80 p/b

Unparalleled Hunter views, award-winning wines, chefs-hatted cuisine, and one-on-one service from our knowledgeable staff all await you at Carillion Wines. Established in 1994, our Hunter Valley vineyard, Tallavera Grove specialises in the traditional local varieties of Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay and Shiraz. Italian varieties Fiano, Vermentino and Sagrantino flourish, adding an exotic edge to the wines we create here. Tallavera Grove is the home of our cellar door. Come and drink in the spectacular views with a glass of Carillion Wine. Winner James Halliday Red Underlined 5 stars, Gold at Royal Adelaide Wine Show – Vermentino 2021 and Gold at NSW Small Winemakers’ Show – ‘Crystals’ Chardonnay 2019 Small Batch – Adventurous – Respectful

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Joy Asian Kitchen 220 Vincent St, Cessnock PH 4990 1070 www.railwayhotelcessnock.com.au admin@railwayhotelcessnock.com.au OPENING HOURS LUNCH 7 Days 12PM–3PM DINNER 7 Days 5.30PM–8.30PM Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day GROUPS Welcome DINING STYLE Thai Cuisine and Traditional Bistro SPECIALTIES Chicken and Prawn Dumplings and Pad See Ew Prawn PRICE GUIDE From $12–$19 Located in the Australian Railway Hotel Cessnock, Joy Asian Restaurant offers a mix of country bistro with Asian flavours. The iconic building on the corner of Vincent Street is owned by the Lorchaiwet family who also own the Hunter Valleys famous Oishii Japanese & Thai Restaurant at Roche Estate Pokolbin. The menu features all your favourite Asian cuisine including Chicken and Prawn Dumpling and Pad See Ew Prawn. In addition to the delicious Asian menu, there is also bistro classics from burgers and fried chicken to pizza.

The family-friendly venue has a kid’s playground so the little ones can burn off some energy while you enjoy great food and a drink from the traditional bar.

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MOUNT VIEW, NULKABA & CESSNOCK | 73

Kelman Vineyard 2 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin PH 4991 5456 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 $5 pp. Please book by phone or email – Phone 0492 993 282 BOUTIQUE HUNTER WINES Chardonnay/ Semillon/Pinot Gris (CSG), Semillon, Chardonnay, Chard/Sem, Rosé, Shiraz, Blanc de Blancs, Sparkling Moscato, Vin de Vie Fortified Muscat PRICE RANGE From $26 Estate Range, from $50 Premium Range AWARDS Silver Medal – 2020/21 Rosé & Bronze Medals – Blanc de Blanc and CSG at Hunter Valley Wine Show 2021

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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 visit petersonswines.com.au to book your tasting or call 02 4990 1704.

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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Rated 4 stars in the 2022 James Halliday Wine Companion

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Saddler’s Creek Wines 15 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin PH 4991 1770 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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Visit our Hunter Valley Cellar Door and enjoy a Premium Wine Tasting Experience in our beautiful wine garden, open daily. Weekends at Saddler’s feature local live music and our food van offers casual eats prepared by the chefs from Vincent St Kitchen + Bar every Saturday and Sunday. Join us for our weekly food and wine pairing masterclasses guided by our wine expert and complemented with a Degustation Tasting Plate curated by VSK award-winning chef Jonathan Heath. ‘Wine & Chill’ in our 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 selecting small batch parcels of the highest quality fruit to craft elegant, well balanced and fruit driven wines. Open 7 days, the team at Saddler’s look forward to welcoming you soon!

Savannah Estate Wines 312 Mount View Road, Mount View PH 4990 6326 The next generation of Hunter Valley Wines 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 12 people welcome WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Arneis, Vermentino, Pinot Gris, Marsanne 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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Broke Fordwich... H

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The Tranquil side of the Hunter Valley.

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Pokolbin South

YOU ARE HERE

Lovedale

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Pokolbin North

WOLL

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Nulkaba MCDONALDS RD

Cessnock

Mount View

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. 76 | BROKE FORDWICH

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Talits Estate

Running Horse Wines

Map Legend Winery/ Cellar Door Restaurant/ Café Mt Broke Wines Providore/ Gourmet Produce & Restaurant Distillery Beer/Cider/Bar

River Flats Estate

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Margan Wines & Restaurant

Winmark Wines

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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.

WOLLOMBI

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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.

Wollombi

View of the Broken Back Mountains surrounding Broke

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Margan Wines & Restaurant

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Mount Broke Wines

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River Flats Estate Running Horse Wines

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Talits Estate

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Winmark Wines

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Margan Wines & 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: 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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Mount Broke Wines 130 Adams Peak Road, Broke PH 6579 1314 Established in 1997, Mount Broke Wines has defined Shiraz quality in the Broke Fordwich/ Hunter Valley Region across the last decade. Our low yielding single origin vineyard operates with a focus on producing small batches of premium wines. The range also includes fine examples of Semillon, Verdelho, Alborino, Pecorino, Shiraz and Barbera. Centrally located 20 minutes from Wollombi, Singleton and Pokolbin. Take in the Hunter Valley’s best view of the Brokenback Range whilst enjoying a Saturday or Sunday lunch created by our French Chefs. Relax in a friendly atmosphere inspired from provincial France with a background of cool music. Friday night is wood fired pizza and our fully licensed bar. Mount Broke Wines also provides the perfect venue for weddings and functions.

www.mountbrokewines.com.au philmcnamara@outlook.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Fri from 3PM; Sat & Sun 10AM–5PM FRENCH BISTRO Lunch Sat & Sun from 11:30AM–3PM WOOD FIRED PIZZA & BAR Dinner Fri from 5:30PM GROUPS Welcome, bookings essential WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Pecorino, Albarino RED WINES Shiraz, Barbera

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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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Running Horse Wines 1133 Milbrodale Road, Broke PH 0474 156 786 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.

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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Unique and Boutique

Talits Estate 722 Milbrodale Road, Broke PH 0472 500 662 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”.

Winmark Wines

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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

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

IMAGE: CESSNOCK CITY COUNCIL

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 | Corporate Events Art Gallery & Sculptures WHITE WINES Rusty’s Run Chardonnay, Winmark Single Vineyard Reserve Chardonnay, Winmark 2021 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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Hunter Valley Wine Country The home of Sniff...Swirl...Sip. Let

show you where.

www.wineanddinehuntervalley.com.au

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To Singleton 20 mins

Whispering Brook

Nightingale Wines

1813 Wine D

Running Horse Wines

BROKE VILLAGE

YENGO NATIONAL PARK

MILBRODALE ROAD

Margan Wines & Restaurant

Mount Broke Wines

STATE FOREST

Talits Estate

To Pokolbin 15 mins Cessnock 30 mins Newcastle 75mins

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To Sydney via Windsor 90 Mins

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Winmark Wines & Art Gallery

MOUNT BROKE

Greenway Wines

Not to Scale

Cellar Door Restaurant Light bites Olives Visit www.brokefordwich.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

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Margan. ESTATE GROWN. ESTATE MADE.

Margan Wines is a multi-generational grape growing and winemaking business with an acclaimed wine and food tourism operation in the Broke Fordwich wine region. Established by Andrew and Lisa Margan in 1996 in the historic village of Broke in the Hunter Valley. Now, 26 years later, two of the second generation, Alessa and Ollie, have joined the business as viticulturist and winemaker respectively, bringing with them experience from abroad and a fresh perspective to the brand’s evolution. “Things have gone from strength to strength. We’ve raised three kids, grown a wine brand, developed a thriving wine tourism and restaurant operation in the Hunter Valley, and have a significant sustainably farmed vineyard to our name. We’re producing more than 25,000 cases of wine each year, which is sold domestically and to select export markets,” says Lisa Margan.

Fast forward 26 years, they’re the leading winery in the Broke Fordwich sub-region, with a commitment to creating singlevineyard, sustainably farmed wines produced from grapes grown wholly and solely on their vineyards in Broke. The estate comprises 100 hectares of vines in the Broke Fordwich GI, which are farmed following regenerative agricultural principles and is certified Sustainably Farmed (SWA). The vineyards are planted on the Fordwich Sill, a unique volcanic soil formation dating back 200 million years. The vineyard is a combination of old vine (50 years plus) traditional varieties such as Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz as well as pioneering varieties including Albarino, Barbera and field blends of Shiraz/Mouvedre and Tempranillo/Graciano/Shiraz. A gentle approach in the winery at Margan aims to produce outstanding wines of regional definition and varietal typicity. At the heart of the property is the Margan winery, cellar door and restaurant, an absolute destination for discerning food and wine lovers. With its striking design, rammed earth construction and sweeping views across the vineyards to the Brokenback ranges, it takes out many of the national tourism and hospitality awards year after year. With a reputation for refined Farm to Fork dining and a regarded Sydney Morning Herald Chef’s Hat to its name, the restaurant at Margan really is agri-dining at its finest. “Having pioneered the kitchen garden concept in the region and as farmers, our first goal is to showcase the produce that we grow here on our sustainably farmed vineyard and organically managed kitchen garden and orchard, which includes free-range chickens, beehives, olives groves, and estate reared lambs. It’s the ultimate food and wine experience with a hyper-local and truly seasonal focus where menus are created almost daily around what’s fresh and thriving and partnered with a carefully curated wine match,” Lisa said. Margan Cellar Door is open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm, for bookable tasting experiences and casual courtyard platters. In addition, Margan Restaurant offers a 5-course signature Tasting Menu every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Advance bookings are recommended via the website. To experience Margan Wines & Restaurant for yourself, visit the beautiful Broke Fordwich Wine Region. You’ll find Margan at 1238 Milbrodale Rd, Broke and online at www.margan.com.au ISSUE #18 2022 | 81

TY D COU NR

HERMITAGE RD

WIN E

Wollombi...

D GR SIN

YEN G

Wollombi Tavern Route 33 Café

Great Northern Trading Post

TH NOR

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.

✓ Type of Business

BROKE RD

MBI RD

Pokolbin South

WOLLO

To Ce nock

MCDONALDS RD

YOU ARE HERE

Wollombi

WINE COUNRTY DR

MCDONALDS RD BROKE RD

Mount View WOLLOMBI

MAP NOT TO SCALE

G R EAT

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.

To Yengo National Park

Broke

Myrtle & Stone

O CRE

RD EK

I RD

Noyce Brothers Wines

WOL LO M B

R ES C

PAYN

Wollombi Village

Stonehurst Cedar Creek

To Broke

CEDAR CRK RD

An Abundance of History and Wine.

Laguna

(Approx 7km from Wollombi)

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

To Bucketty/Sydney

✓ Also Available

DESTINATION Great Northern Trading Post

✓

Noyce Brothers Wines Stonehurst Cedar Creek

MAP

Myrtle and Stone Route 33 Café Wollombi Tavern

✓

✓ ✓

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. The restaurant offers an exquisite seasonal menu with local produce. We serve breakfast rolls & lunch 7 days and dinner on Friday & Saturday nights from 6pm. GNTP sells fuel, has a Tesla charger, ice, plus a general store. Adjacent to GNTP is a Gallery, Homeware Store, Real Estate Agent 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–10PM SPECIALITIES Local wines and cider, an impressive range of spirits, Mornington Brewery beer on tap and Allpress coffee GROUPS Welcome MAP REF:

BOOK ONLINE

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

MAP REF:

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:

BOOK ONLINE

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.

WOLLOMBI | 83

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

84 | ISSUE #18 2022

www.visitwollombi.com.au

Weddings

FEASTS + FUNCTIONS ISSUE ISSUE#18 #172022 2021 | 85

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

ISSUE #17 2021 | 86

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 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.

Unique weddings designed for you

Crowne Plaza Weddings

Set in a beautiful location, Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley wedding venues overlook some of the finest scenery in Australia. Say ‘I do’ with a stunning backdrop of vineyards, rolling hills and distant mountains for a truly magical wedding day setting. With special accommodation benefits, a luxurious day spa, award winning restaurant and championship golf course, Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley is the seamless, all-in-one destination you’ve been looking for. 430 Wine Country Road, Lovedale PH 4991 0000 | E reservations.hunter@ihg.com www.crowneplazahuntervalley.com.au

A hidden treasure, located on our privately owned vineyard, in the heart of Wine Country, Tamburlaine Organic Wines offers the perfect venue for your dream wedding.

Tamburlaine Organic Wines 358 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

PH 4998 4202 www.tamburlaine.com.au ISSUE #18 2022 | 87

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

Ben Ean

Hunter's Dream

119 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin PH 4993 3700 | E weddings@benean.com.au www.benean.com.au/weddings-and-functions/weddings

149 Deasys Road, Pokolbin PH 4998 6509 | E enquiries@huntersdream.com.au www.huntersdream.com.au/cellar/events

Ben Ean, formally known as Lindeman’s Ben Ean is one of the most breathtaking and sought-after sites in the Hunter Valley Wine Country. As you enjoy the exclusivity of our grounds, the photographic opportunities are endless. Ben Ean epitomises the perfect combination of romance and sophisticated rustic elegance. We understand that no two weddings are alike, and we are delighted to tailor a complete package to suit your needs. With an outstanding range of wines in combination with our superb menu, we will ensure every aspect of your wedding day is a memorable experience for years to come.

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.

Beautiful grounds • Exclusive • Complete package Stress free • Your personal event manager 2674 Paynes Crossing Road, Wollombi P 0413 003 656 | E events@thewoodhousewollombi.com.au VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

www.thewoodhousewollombi.com.au

@thewoodhousewollombi

ISSUE #18 2022 | 89

The Convent

Wandin Weddings

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

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

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.

Do you want to create outstanding memories at Leogate Estate? Imagine your wedding located in the picturesque Hunter Valley, complemented by the stunning back drop of the Brokenback Ranges and rolling vineyards. Our focus on exquisite food, awardwinning wines, boutique accommodation and exceptional service makes us one of the leading venues in the region. LEOGATE ESTATE WINES PTY LTD 1693 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320 e: enquiries@leogate.com.au | p: 02 4998 7499 | w: leogate.com.au

90 | ISSUE #18 2022

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.

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!” – Wedding Testimonial

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

Hermitage Rd

Hope Brewery

Broke

The Garden Cellars

4 Pines at the Farm

McDo nalds Rd

The BEER & CIDER TRAIL ale ved o L

4 Broke Rd

3 Pokolbin Cider House

y ntr Cou ne Wi

Sydney Brewery

MAP NOT TO SCALE

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. 92 | ISSUE #18 2022

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 award-winning beers made onsite and in Newcastle, including the Hunter Classic, Newy Pale Ale and Young Americans IPA. 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 from our ever-changing 10 tap beer line-up.

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 + Grill 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 30 beers, ciders & seltzers on tap, there’s 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+

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, Wed, Thu 10AM–5PM; Closed Mon & Tue PH 4058 4188 E hunter@foghornbrewery.com.au www.foghornbrewery.com.au BOOKINGS Recommended for tours & Guided Tastings

Pokolbin Cider House

Sydney Brewery

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

4 Pines at the Farm–Hunter Valley

HVG Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin

917 Hermitage 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 widest range of local craft beers from the Hunter Valley.

From the Sandy shores of the Northern Beaches to the rich landscape of the Hunter Valley, 4 Pines Brewing Co is here to share our love for beer and welcome in a new community of beer lovers amongst the vines. Welcome to our home of EXCEPTIONAL beer and AWESOME food.

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

OPEN 7 Days, Taproom 10AM–Late PH 4998 7777 E 4pines@huntervalley.com.au www.4pinesatthefarm.com.au BOOKINGS Required for groups

ISSUE #12 #18 2022 | 93

Hermitage Rd

McDo nalds Rd

MAP NOT TO SCALE

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

Small Mouth Vodka

Mc Do nal ds Rd

y ntr Cou

Pokolb in Mo untain s Rd

ne Wi

Easy Street Collective

Oake

M ar r

owbon e

y Cree k Rd

Rd Mount View Rd

Millbrook Distillery

V nt ou

lom Wol

iew Rd

The

bi Rd Wollom

DISTILLERY 94 | ISSUE #18 2022

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!

Easy Street Collective

16 Pokolbin Mountains Rd, Pokolbin

Small Mouth Vodka

HVG Shopping Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin

The distillery boasts the first locally produced Single Malt Whisky and Barrel Aged Rum and also has a dedicated Whisky and Rum room. We also boast a large range of craft spirits and beers with an additional spirit tasting room for Gins, Vodka and Liqueurs. Enjoy the friendly and relaxed atmosphere with breathtaking views.

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 Wednesday to Sunday, 10AM–4PM PH 0468 335 114 | E hello@easystreetcollective.com.au www.easystreetcollective.com.au BOOKINGS Bookings for large groups preferred

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

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 two gin paddles or a vodka paddle. All served with a matching garnish, mixer and mini bucket of ice. Perfectly enjoyed overlooking the Hope Estate amphitheatre! 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+

Millbrook Distillery

1617 Mount View Road, Millfield

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 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 #18 2022 | 95

The

Sparkling Trail

Milbr

Talits Estate

odale

To Broke Fordwich

Lo ve

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. 96 | ISSUE #18 2022

2 Broke Rd

MAP NOT TO SCALE

Sparklings of the Hunter

cD ona lds M

mbi Rd Wollo

Brok e Rd

Rd le

Tempus Two

Wine Country D

4 Pines at the Farm

Hermitage Rd

Gartelmann Wines

Tamburlaine Organic Wines

Hungerford Hill

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.

Gartelmann Wines

Hungerford Hill Wines

701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale

2450 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Voted one of the Top 10 Cellar Doors to visit in the Hunter Valley. Gartelmann Wines produces three fine hand-crafted sparkling wines using grapes sourced from some of our most famous wine regions. Enjoy sparkling richly fruited Shiraz, complex Blanc de Blancs and fun, fresh and fruity Moscato at our boutique cellar door.

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.

Tempus Two

OPEN 7 Days Mon–Fri 9AM–5PM; Sat 10AM–5PM, Sun & Public Holidays 10AM-4PM | PH 4930 7113 E cellardoor@gartelmann.com.au www.gartelmann.com.au BOOKINGS Required for groups

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

Tamburlaine Organic Wines

At Roche Estate, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Roads, Pokolbin

358 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

Visit the striking cellar door which celebrates clean, refined elegance. Tempus Two source their fruit from Australia’s premium vineyard regions to craft wines with both substance and style. Plan your trip to our Cellar Door and book in for a tasting experience or reserve your picnic basket.

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 4993 3999 E cellardoor@tempustwo.com.au www.tempustwo.com.au BOOKINGS Bookings recommended

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+

4 Pines at the Farm–Hunter Valley

722 Milbrodale Road, Broke

917 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

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!

Join 4 Pines at The Farm for a glass of sparkling! The range of premium wines on offer are from small Hunter Valley winemakers – including Helé Family Wines, Hunter Farm, Stormy Ridge, Lisa McGuigan, and Margan wines. All nestled in our 55 year old vineyards. Whilst visiting, head on our daily vineyard inspection or our Hunter Valley Wine School.

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

CELLAR DOOR 9AM–5PM OPEN Breakfast 7.30–10.30AM; Lunch 12PM–4PM; Dinner 6PM–8PM, 7 Days | PH 4998 7777 E 4Pines@huntervalley.com.au www.4pinesatthefarm.com.au BOOKINGS Required for groups ISSUE #18 2022 | 97

Tintilla Estate

MAP NOT TO SCALE

The CHEESE

& Olives

itage Rd Herm

Trail

Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop Rd

Loveda le

Broke

Adina Vineyard

3 W

Broke Rd

C ine

Hunter Belle Cheese

Binnorie Dairy

try oun

n Do

s ald

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.

98 | ISSUE #18 2022

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.

Adina Vineyard

0 1

Binnorie Dairy

492 Lovedale Road, Lovedale

25 Lodge Road, Lovedale

Adina offers an authentic Mediterranean experience in the heart of Lovedale. With over 2,000 olive trees on site, we are the largest producer of olives and olive oils in the region. Our entire Providore and Olive ranges (produced on site) are also available for tasting. Visit our cellar door 7 days a week.

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’s something for everyone. Tastings are complementary, why not buy a few products and sit on the deck with a local wine, or bring a picnic blanket and sit out under the shade of a gumtree.

OPEN 7 Days 10AM–5PM PH 4930 7473 E marketing@adinavineyard.com.au www.adinavineyard.com.au BOOKINGS Recommended

Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop

Roche Estate & Pokolbin Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin 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 PH 4998 6660 E info@binnorie.com.au www.binnorie.com.au BOOKINGS Walk-ins welcome

Fat Cow Cheese Shop

At Ben Ean, 119 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

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

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. Book in for our daily High Cheese or one of our tasting experiences; Wine & Cheese, Beer & Cheese or the picturesque Picnic (all must be booked online). We offer a huge awardwinning range including creamy bries, flavoursome fetas and bold cheddars as well as decadent fudge and gelato. Come and 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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Art +

ita ge Rd He rm

WINE TRAIL

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4 Pines at the Farm

D e as ys Rd

Broke

Broke Rd

Winmark Wines

Constable Estate Watershed Gallery

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Wollomb i Rd

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Did You Know?

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• 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.

Sculpture in the Vineyards

Wollombi 100 | ISSUE #18 2022

Rd dale

• 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.

Loviz Arts Gallery

Watershed Gallery

At Crowne Plaza HV, 430 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale

621 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

Boasting the largest display of Hunter Valley inspired art and other various uplifting themed prints from $50 by local artist Tanya Loviz. You’ll find original paintings and uniquely hand-finished canvas prints adorned with jewels, thick paint and vibrant colour, plus merchandise like keyrings and greeting cards from $5.

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.

OPEN 7 Days 9AM to 5PM; Concierge can open for you after hours PH 0412 305 413 E info@lovizarts.com.au www.lovizarts.com.au BOOKINGS Walk-ins welcome

Constable Estate

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+

4 Pines at the Farm–Hunter Valley

205 Gillards Road, Pokolbin

917 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

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.

Whilst enjoying the exceptional beer and awesome food on offer at 4 Pines at the Farm, take a look at the incredible WUPA@Wanaruah gallery. The Indigenous art pieces on display are more than art; they are pieces of someone’s heart, a part of a soul, a piece of their past and their culture.

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

OPEN Breakfast 7.30–10.30AM; Lunch 12PM–4PM; Dinner 6PM–8PM, 7 Days | PH 4998 7777 E 4Pines@huntervalley.com.au www.4pinesatthefarm.com.au BOOKINGS Required for groups

Sculpture in the Vineyards

229 Wollombi Road, Broke

Wollombi Valley Sculpture Festival

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.

2022 is the 20th Anniversary of Sculpture in the Vineyards making it the oldest and one of the largest sculpture exhibitions in rural NSW. Over 150 works by Award Winning Australian and International Sculptors will be on display and for sale throughout the Wollombi Valley. For 16 days, including 3 weekends, the entire Wollombi Valley will be in festival mode.

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

OPEN 10–25 SEPTEMBER, 10AM–4PM PH 0478 771 890 or 0403 270 365 info@sculptureinthevineyards.com.au sculptureinthevineyards.com.au ENTRY Free

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Brekkie & Brunch

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Wilderness Rd

4 Pines at the Farm

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Restaurant Cuvee

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Restaurant Kawul

The Deck Café

Mockingbird Café

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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. 102 | ISSUE #18 2022

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 info@wandin.com.au www.wandin.com.au BOOKINGS Essential

Mockingbird Café

477 Lovedal Rd, Lovedale

www.mockingbirdcafehuntervalley.com.au

BOOKINGS Bookings recommended

At Calais Estate, 151 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin

Gigi

Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Restaurant Kawul offers a picturesque vineyard spot to relax over a delicious meal. We use local produce to create native inspired cuisine in a modern and creative way. We have a particular love of vegan dishes, and can cater to most dietary requirements.

Restaurant Cuvee

Fawks

OPEN Thurs to Mon, 8AM–4PM PH 0478 704 800 E info@mockingbirdnewcastle.com.au

Restaurant Kawul

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

Cnr Wine Country Drive and Broke Road, Pokolbin

Rest Cuvee

Mockingbird Café is the lovechild of husband and wife team James & Tess Borg – the creators of Fennel & Co. Catering. Their passion for delicious food and incredible service has seen them create a café that is warm and welcoming, with creative menus and attentive service. Their cosy nest has quickly become a favourite among locals and tourists.

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

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 Breakfast 8:30AM–10:30AM; Lunch 12PM–3PM, 7 Days PH 4998 7881 E cuvee@petersonhouse.com.au www.petersonhouse.com.au BOOKINGS Bookings essential

4 Pines at the Farm–Hunter Valley

917 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin Join us for breakfast 7 days from 7.30am. There’s no better way to start the day then overlooking the view of The Farm. The peaceful surrounds will ease you into the day ahead. Why not stay and make a day of it? Visit Hunter Farm or get adventurous and book a Segway or horse riding tour.

OPEN Breakfast 7.30–10.30AM; Lunch 12PM–4PM; Dinner 6PM–8PM, 7 Days | PH 4998 7777 E 4Pines@huntervalley.com.au www.4pinesatthefarm.com.au BOOKINGS Required for groups ISSUE #18 2022 | 103

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Hunter's Dream

Wandin

Broke Rd

Wilderness Rd Palmer

Brok e Rd

McGuigan Wines

s Lane

Broke Rd

3 ry unt e Co Win

Tamburlaine Organic Wines

Marro

ROSÉ Trail

wb on eR d

Saddler's Creek Wines

Oakey Creek Rd

The

2 Mount View Rd

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! 104 | ISSUE #18 2022

Loveda le R d

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Talits Estate

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.

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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.

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.

358 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin 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

15 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin

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

Tamburlaine Organic Wines

Saddler’s Creek Wines

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

McGuigan Wines

447 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin Discover the sweeter things in life at McGuigan Wines. Featuring vibrant colours, refreshing and delicate aromas and attractive flavours to the palate, our lively Rosé wines have been made to mark big milestones or everyday moments. We have indoor and outdoor areas suitable for large and small groups with tasting experiences available to book online.

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+

Hunter’s Dream

722 Milbrodale Road, Broke

149 Deasys Road, Pokolbin

Experience “the spirit of Provence” in the Hunter Valley at Talits Estate. This award-winning cellar door offers some of the Hunter’s most talked about wines. Try their delicious Été [summer] Rosé of Merlot. Lovingly produced by gently pressing Talits Estate renowned Merlot grapes just long enough to create that perfect pale pink hue. Book a tasting online today!

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. With a fruity bouquet, the palate is well balanced with some natural sweetness.

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

OPEN 7 Days, 10AM–5PM PH 4998 4111 E hunter@mcguiganwines.com.au www.mcguiganwines.com.au BOOKINGS Recommended

OPEN Mon–Sat 10AM to 4:30PM; Sun Temporarily Closed | PH 4998 6509 E enquiries@huntersdream.com.au www.huntersdream.com.au/cellar BOOKINGS Bookings recommended

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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 #18 2022

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!

! n o i t a c o e n OL

TWO EXPERIENCES...

THE DECK CAFÉ LOVEDALE

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