WINE & DINE HUNTER VALLEY Issue 9 - Winter | Spring | 2015 by WCP MEDIA

WINTER | SPRING 2015

Create this dish at home! RECIPE INSIDE CELLAR DOORS | RESTAURANTS | LOCAL PRODUCE | TRAIL MAPS | REVIEWS

We Love Our Beer

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

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

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

COVER IMAGE Cover image competition won by Harrigans Irish Pub and Accomodation, Broke Road Pokolbin. You can find the delicious Chilli Prawn and Spanish Chorizo Pasta recipe, provided by Harrigans, on Page 92!

QUICK INDEXES

POKOLBIN NORTH

POKOLBIN SOUTH

LOVEDALE, ROTHBURY & BRANXTON

MOUNT VIEW, CESSNOCK & NULKABA

BROKE FORDWICH

WOLLOMBI

TOURS, CLASSES & EXPERIENCES

102

EDITORS/PUBLISHERS Quentin von Essen & Di von Essen GRAPHIC DESIGN Jess Codrington CONTRIBUTORS Carla Elkin, Peter Firth, Salt&Peppa Reviews FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION: +61 2 4967 3200 wineanddine@wcpmedia.com.au Suite 4/2 Smith Street, Charlestown NSW 2290 Australia © Copyright 2015 WCP MEDIA. All rights reserved. Wine & Dine is a Registered Trademark. Reproduction in part or whole or use without permission is strictly prohibited. For information regarding permissions please contact us at the above address. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, WCP MEDIA cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur. All opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily that of the publishers. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising due to inappropriate content.

Warm hospitality, a love of life, world class wines, fine food and culture - this is Hunter Valley wine country. With a tradition of viticulture stretching back more than 180 years and celebrated as Australia’s primary wine and food destination, the Hunter Valley attracts food and wine lovers from all over the world and treats them to a fascinating journey into the world of great wine and wonderful food. The rich soils of the Hunter Valley inspire growers to produce a wide range of premium wines and fresh produce - providing visitors to the Hunter Valley with more choice and diversity than any other wine region in Australia. Not only is the Hunter Valley Australia’s oldest and best known wine region, but it is a major wine producing area, gaining international recognition for its winemakers and the quality and distinct regional characteristics of its premium wines - in particular Hunter Valley Semillon and Shiraz. Hunter Valley wine is equal to the best in the world and the wine sector is recognised for producing a full range of wine styles and varietals - one to match every meal. Choose from a diversity of restaurants spread throughout the region, go on a wine tour, attend a wine tasting class or self drive using one of the six Wine and Food Trail Maps throughout this guide.

www.HunterValleyOnline.com.au

OPTIMISED FOR IPHONE, IPAD & ANDROID DEVICES

...to Australia’s

Contents Two Top Chefs 10 Hunter Valley Varietals – Whites 28 All Hail the Craft Ale

Two Great Spots to Lunch – Alot! 54 Top Drops – Our Picks of the Season

Wine and Cheese... Getting along Naturally

Hunter Valley Varietals – Reds 70 Wine and Game Pairing

Cooking with Wine 76 Dining Review - The Cellar Restaurant

Chilli Prawn and Spanish Chorizo Pasta Recipe

Making their Mark - Winemakers

Along the Wollombi Wine Trail

101

The Joys of Chocolate and Wine

103

wine & food region

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

492 Lovedale Road, Lovedale

7 Days

Ascella Pure Wines

203 Thompsons Road, Milbrodale

7 Days

Blueberry Hill Vineyard

999 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Briar Ridge Vineyard

593 Mount View Road, Mount View

7 Days

Brokes Promise Estate

725 Milbrodale Road, Broke

7 Days

Calais Estate

151 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin

7 Days

Capercaillie Wine Co.

4 Londons Road, Lovedale

7 Days

Constable Estate

205 Gillards Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

DeBortoli Wines

532 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin

7 Days

DenMar Estate

479 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

Fri to Mon

Drayton’s Family Wines

555 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Emmas Cottage Vineyard

438 Wilderness Road, Lovedale

Fri to Sun & Public Holidays

Ernest Hill Wines

307 Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba

7 Days

First Creek Wines

600 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Gartelmann Wines

701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale

7 Days

Gemelli Estate

168 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin

7 Days

Gundog Estate

101 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Hanging Tree Wines

294 O’Connors Road, Pokolbin

Fri to Sun & Pub Hols Weekdays by app.

Hermitage Rd Cellars

Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin

7 Days

Hope Estate

2213 Broke Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Hungerford Hill Wines

2450 Broke Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Hunter Distillery

1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Iron Gate Estate

Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Ivanhoe Wines

525 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Kelman Vineyard

2 Oakey Creek Road, Mount View

7 Days

Kevin Sobels Wines

5 Halls Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard

712 Wollombi Road, Broke

Fri to Sun

Lambloch Estate

2342 Broke Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Leogate Estate

1693 Broke Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Macquariedale Organic Wines

170 Sweetwater Road, Rothbury

7 Days

PAGE 4 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

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

462 DeBeyers Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Mistletoe Winery

771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Misty Glen Wines

293 Deasys Road, Pokolbin

Fri to Mon

Moorebank Private Vineyard

150 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin

7 Days

Mount Broke Wines

130 Adams Peak Road, Broke

Sat, Sun & Pub Hols

Noyce Brothers Wines

2884 Wollombi Road, Wollombi

7 Days

Oakvale Wines

1596 Broke Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Peacock Hill Vineyard

29 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin

7 Days

Peterson House

Cnr Broke Road & Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin

7 Days

Petersons Wines

552 Mount View Road, Mount View

7 Days

Pierre’s Wines

82 Elderslie Road, Branxton

Sat & Sun Mon to Fri by app.

Pokolbin Estate

298 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Ridgeview Wines

273 Sweetwater Road, Pokolbin

Wed to Sun

Rothvale Winery

223 Deasy’s Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Saddler’s Creek Wines

15 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Sandalyn Estate

Wilderness Road, Lovedale

7 Days

Savannah Estate Wines

402 Mount View Road, Mount View

7 Days

Stomp! Wines

1273 Milbrodale Road, Broke

Fri to Sun

Stonehurst Cedar Creek

1840 Wollombi Road, Cedar Creek

7 Days

Tamburlaine Organic Wines

358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

7 Days

Tatler Wines

477 Lovedale Road, Lovedale

7 Days

Thalgara Estate

536 DeBeyers Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Thomas Allen Wines

1733 Broke Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Tintilla Estate

725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Vinden Estate

17 Gillards Road, Pokolbin

Wed to Sun

Wine Selectors

104

Visitor Information Centre, 455 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin

7 Days

Wollombi Village Vineyard

100

2971 Payne’s Crossing Road, Wollombi

Sat & Sun

Wollombi Wines

100

Wollombi Road, Wollombi

7 Days

Wynwood Estate

310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

7 Days WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 5

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

19 Vincent St, Cessnock

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Amandas on the Edge

1039 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

Lunch Fri to Mon; Dinner 7 Nights

And the Winner is Oscars

Shop 15, HV Gardens, Broke Road, Pokolbin

Friday to Tuesday, 7 Days in School Hols

Australian Regional Food Store and Café

426 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days

Bistro Molines

749 Mount View Road, Mount View

Lunch Thurs - Mon; Dinner Fri & Sat

Bistro Vinden

17 Gillards Road, Pokolbin

Lunch Sat & Sun; Dinner Sat

Blaxlands Inn

2198 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Lunch & Dinner Wed to Sun

Buon Cibo Ristorante

Pokolbin Village, 2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Breakfast & Lunch 7 days; Dinner Fri to Mon

Café DenMar

479 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

Sat & Sun Lunch Only

Chez Pok

@ Peppers Guesthouse, Ekerts Road, Pokolbin

Breakfast & Dinner 7 Days; Lunch Fri to Sun

Circa 1876

64 Halls Road, Pokolbin

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Drayton’s Log Press Café

555 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days

Eighty Eight

Peppers Convent, 88 Halls Road, Pokolbin

Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Fri - Sun

Elements Bar and Dining

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

Lunch Sat & Sun; Dinner 7 Nights

Elizabeth’s

401 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin

Lunch 7 Days; Breakfast Sat & Sun

Emma’s of Lovedale

438 Wilderness Road, Lovedale

Breakfast Sat & Sun; Lunch Fri to Sun, Dinner Fri & Sat

EXP. Restaurant

1596 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Lunch Wed to Sun; Dinner Wed to Sat

Goldfish Bar & Kitchen

@Tempus Two Complex, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Road’s, Pokolbin

Lunch and Dinner 7 Days

Great Northern Trading Post

3718 Great North Road, Laguna

7 Days

Harrigan’s Irish Pub

Broke Road, Pokolbin

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Harvest Restaurant

@ Hope Estate, 2213 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Fri & Sat

Il Cacciatore Restaurant

@ Hermitage Lodge, 609 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

Dinner 7 Nights

Infuzion Restaurant

Sebel Kirkton Park, 336 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Lovedale Smokehouse & Café

64 Majors Lane, Lovedale

Lunch Thurs to Mon; Dinner Fri & Sat

Matilda Bay Brewhouse

Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin

7 Days, Lunch & Dinner

Muse Kitchen

@ Keith Tulloch Wines, Lot 17 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin

Lunch Wed to Sun; Dinner Sat

Muse Restaurant

@ Hungerford Hill, Broke Road, Pokolbin

Lunch Sat & Sun; Dinner Wed to Sat

PAGE 6 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

Quick Index to Restaurants (M-Z) Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant

@ Tempus Two Complex, Cnr McDonalds & Broke Road’s , Pokolbin

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Pedens Hotel

196 Vincent Street, Cessnock

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Restaurant Cuvee

Cnr Broke Road & Wine Country Dr, Pokolbin

Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days

Ridgeview Restaurant

273 Sweetwater Road, Pokolbin

Breakfast Fri - Sun; Lunch & Dinner Thurs - Sun

Royal Federal Hotel

50 Maitland Road, Branxton

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days 7 Days

Route 33 Café

2994 Great North Road, Wollombi

Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar

319 Wilderness Road, Lovedale; Fri to Sun (Mon Pub Hols) @ Lambloch Estate, 2342 Broke Road, Pokolbin Thurs to Mon

The Brickworks Brasserie

@ Potters, Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

The Cellar Restaurant

Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin

Lunch and Dinner Mon - Sat

The Deck Café

701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale

Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days

The Verandah Restaurant

@ Calais Estate, Palmers Lane, Pokolbin

Lunch & Dinner Thurs - Sun

Twine Restaurant

310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Fri - Sun

Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen

1616 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Lunch 7 Days; Breakfast Sat & Sun

Quick Index to Providores (A-Z) Adina Vineyard

492 Lovedale Road, Lovedale

7 Days

Australian Regional Food Store & Café

426 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days

Brokes Promise Estate

725 Milbrodale Road, Broke

7 Days

Gartelmann Wines

701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale

7 Days

Gundog Estate & Gourmet Pantry

101 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Hunter Valley Cheese Company

@ McGuigans Complex, 447 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

7 Days

Hunter Valley Chocolate Co.

HVG Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin; Peterson House, Cnr Broke Rd & Wine Country Dr, Pokolbin; 2320 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

7 Days

Lovedale Smokehouse

64 Majors Lane, Lovedale

Lunch Thurs to Mon; Dinner Fri & Sat

Moorebank Private Vineyard

150 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin

7 Days

Pickled & Pitted

19 Singleton Street, Broke

Fri to Sun

Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar

319 Wilderness Road, Lovedale; @ Lambloch Estate, 2342 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Fri to Sun (Mon Pub Hols) Thurs to Mon

Sandalyn Estate

Wilderness Road, Lovedale

7 Days

The Hunter Olive Centre

298 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

7 Days WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 7

What’s in a Symbol? Throughout this booklet you will see symbols relating to facilities and products offered by our wineries, cellar doors, restaurants & providores. Here’s the meaning: Disabled Access

On Site Parking

Vineyard Views

Functions/ Events/ Weddings

Accommodation

Family Friendly

Cellar Door On Site

Free Wifi

Picnic/ BBQ Area

Onsite Restaurant/ Cafe

Beer on Tap

Picnic Hampers

On Site Gallery

On Site Golf Course

Scenic Views

Gourmet Produce

Order Online Cooking Classes

PAGE 8 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

A/C Air Conditioning Baby Change Facilities

How to use Wine & Dine

Listings are sorted by area, are in alphabetical order where possible and can easily be identified by the symbols below. • Wineries will display the following symbols:

PICK UP YOUR FREE FULL SIZE WINE & DINE MAP TODAY! AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT WINE COUNTRY.

INDEX TO WINE & FOOD TRAIL MAPS Tips for self-touring Wine Country: • Locate your current area on the map above - note the large circled number - this is your closest trail. • Use the Index on your right to locate the page number for your selected trail. • Turn to the page indicated to find detailed information about the trail you have selected and an alphabetical listing of all Wineries and Restaurants you can discover along your trail. • Drive carefully and enjoy!

White Wines

Sparkling Wines

Red Wines

Fortified Wines

• Restaurants will display the • Providores will display the

symbol symbol

Pokolbin North

Pokolbin South

Lovedale, Rothbury, Branxton

PG 62/63

Mount View, Cessnock & Nulkaba

PG 78/79

Broke Fordwich

PG 88/89

Wollombi Valley

PG 98

PG 12/13 PG 34/35

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 9

TWO TOP CHEF’S

FRANK FAWKNER Owner and Head Chef of EXP. Restaurant EXP. Restaurant is one of the latest additions to the Hunter Valley’s dining scene and the brainchild and passion of Frank Fawkner - Owner and Head Chef, who is fast making a name for himself amongst both locals and visitors to the region.

own style of food. In 2013, Frank became Head Chef and was an integral part of the team when Muse Restaurant was awarded the coveted “2 Hats” by the SMH Good Food Guide.

Frank began his cooking career at the tender age of 15 at Mount Broke Wines, a simple cafe in Broke. He was then a part of the opening team at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, where he worked for 3 years to complete his apprenticeship before moving to London to work alongside Michelin star winning Chef Tom Aikens at his brasserie-styled restaurant “Tom’s Kitchen” in Chelsea.

In March this year, Frank made the move to open his own restaurant - EXP. Restaurant located at the historic Oakvale Winery on Broke Road in Pokolbin. Unique in almost every way, the dining room at EXP. Restaurant is intimate and chic with hand crafted local furniture and seating for up to 30 diners. Guests can also sit along the bar and peer directly into the kitchen while interacting with Frank and his team.

On his return to the Hunter Valley, Frank took up a position at the highly awarded Muse Restaurant where he worked with husband and wife restauranteurs Troy and Megan Rhoades-Brown. For Frank, this presented the perfect opportunity to develop his career in the fine dining space, learn how to run a fine dining restaurant and create his

A restaurant garden sits just beyond the confines of the dining room. With a menu offering guests the choice of two to four courses, and designed to pay respect to the locally grown and sourced produce, diners can expect to be treated to an exceptional dining EXP.erience from the EXP.erimental taste of the food and wine to the EXP.ertise of the service.

PAGE 10 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

TWO TOP CHEF’S

ANDREW WRIGHT Owner and Head Chef of The Cellar Restaurant Andrew Wright’s love of food began as a young boy when he helped his mother in the kitchen. He grew up in London and worked at the local Italian restaurant after school and weekends. Summer holidays were spent travelling around Europe with his family, in particular rural France where he loved to taste the local delicacies. Completing his apprenticeship in 1983, Andrew worked at various London hotels and restaurants and was Head Chef at the House of Lords in 1994. In 1995 he ran a private dining room for the directors of J Walter Thompson in Mayfair, London, before migrating to Australia in 1996. Andrew was Sous Chef at the Nikko Hotel, Darling Harbour, Sydney before moving to the Hunter Valley in 1997, where he was Head Chef at Roberts Restaurant. From there Pipette at Cypress Lakes, then Seasons Restaurant for Hunter Valley Gardens where he was also involved with the kitchen set up at Harrigans Irish Pub. In 2003, Andrew and his wife Janet became part owners of The Cellar Restaurant and then full owners in 2005.

His ever-changing menu showcases his talent for combining contemporary Australian fare with the influence of European traditions, presented in a simple and uncomplicated manner. The Cellar Restaurant has won many awards including Best Contemporary Australian Restaurant – Informal Dining, as well as Best Restaurant Caterer. The Cellar Restaurant’s extensive and Hunter focussed wine list has won many awards including Sydney Morning Herald’s “One Glass” rating as well as Australia’s Wine List of the Year, One Glass Award. “Our wine list is constructed around the plethora of local wineries and my aim is that all the wines featured can be purchased at the local cellar doors” says Janet. “I have also thrown in a few overseas comparisons to keep the locals interested.” Andrew also caters for a number of external events that include Lovedale Long Lunch and the many concerts held at venues such as Hope Estate and Tempus Two.

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 11

Pokolbin North Wine & Dine Trail

Pokolbin is internationally recognised for being Australia’s oldest commercial wine producing area and where viticulture (growing of grapes) in the Hunter Valley is believed to have first started when James Busby brought planted cuttings of European vines and established what is considered the first vineyard in the area in the 1830’s. However, it was not really until the 1960s that the wine industry of the Lower Hunter Valley really took off due to the closure of local mining operations and the arrival of European immigrants after the Second World War led to a reorientation of Australian tastes. By the 1980s the wine industry had replaced the mining industry as the centerpiece of the local economy. There are now numerous wineries, restaurants, cafes and gourmet food providers in the Pokolbin area, including some of the best known names in Australian wine - some of which have been in existence for well over a century. The majority offer tasting facilities and cellar door sales, and some of the larger enterprises provide additional facilities such as function rooms, restaurants, barbecue and picnic facilities.

THINGS TO SEE & DO Go Back to School! At Hunter Valley Wine School you can attend a 2 hour session which includes a vineyard inspection, instruction on the winemaking process and how to make and blend wines. Daily at 9AM. See page 18 for details. Visit the Hunter Distillery If you’ve ever wondered how spirits are distilled then Hunter Distillery is the place to visit. Get a tour and sample the results from row after row of test tube tasters of award winning range of Vodkas, Schnapps and other spirits. See page 18 for details. PAGE 12 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

Hermitage Rd

Old North Road

Mcdo nalds Rd

The Pokolbin North Trail provides the location and information on cellar doors, restaurants and gourmet food providers located on the northern side of Pokolbin - stretching north from Broke road to Hermitage Rd and Old North Rd and includes some of the most renown and highly awarded wineries, restaurants and providores providing the most enjoyable wine and food experiences in the Hunter.

Deasys Road

Wine Country Dr

Broke Road

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

NAME Amanda’s on the Edge Bistro Vinden

Blueberry Hill Vineyard

Calais Estate

Constable Estate

PAGE

MAP

E4 B2

DenMar Estate/ Café Denmar

EXP. Restaurant

First Creek Wines

Gemelli Estate

Hermitage Road Cellars

Hunter Distillery

Il Cacciatore

Y Y Y

Leogate Estate

Macquariedale Organic Wines

Matilda Bay Brewhouse

Mistletoe Winery

Misty Glen Wines

Moorebank Private Vineyard

Muse Kitchen

Oakvale Wines

Peacock Hill Vineyard

Ridgeview Wines

Rothvale Winery

The Verandah Restaurant

Thomas Allen Wines

Tintilla Estate

Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen

Y Y

A SWEET WATER RD

Ridgeview Wines & Restaurant Denmar Estate & Café Denmar

Macquariedale Organic Wines

OLD NORTH RD

Amandas on the Edge

Mistletoe Winery

HERMITAGE RD

Misty Glen Wines

DEASYS RD

Muse Kitchen

Il Cacciatore

TO BROKE BROKE RD

Leogate Estate Thomas Allen Wines

EXP. Restaurant F Oakvale Wines Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen

The Verandah Restaurant & Calais Estate First Creek Wines

Hunter Distillery

BROKE RD

TO MAP 2 POKOLBIN WINE & FOOD TRAIL 2 (SOUTH)

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

Peacock Hill Vineyard

BROKE RD

MAP LEGEND

Moorebank

PALMERS LN

Vinden Estate & Bistro Vinden

Constable Estate Vineyard

Gemelli Estate

PALMERS LN

WINE COUNTRY DR

MISTLETOE LN

Blueberry Hill Vineyard

Hermitage Rd Cellars Rothvale & Matilda Bay Brewhouse Winery

MC DO NAL DS

COULSON RD

Tintilla Estate

DENMAR ESTATE

TO MAP 2 POKOLBIN WINE & FOOD TRAIL 2 (SOUTH)

479 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin PH 6574-7291

DenMar Estate fortified wines are now available, www.denmarestate.com.au the red is made from our 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon marie@denmarestate.com.au and the white from our double trophy winning 2007 Chardonnay both are aging well. WINE TASTING & SALES The as new Cellar Door is modern and stylish and Fri - Mon 10AM - 4.30PM has a pretty veranda cafe attached which has Closed Christmas Day & Good Friday spectacular mountain, rural and vineyard views GROUPS making it an ideal spot for lunch or special functions. Located in the popular Hermitage Road area of Pokolbin, DenMar Estate is a 25 acre property with 10 acres under vines, white grapes comprise of Semillon and Chardonnay and reds Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Cafe DenMar is open Sat/Sun lunchtimes serving light platter style lunches and also caters for groups of 10 – 20 for private lunches or functions or for larger groups for a stand-up cocktail function. We provide a selection of menus which are reasonably priced.

Small groups up to 20 people by appointment only

MAP REF: B2 WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 13

AMANDAS ON THE EDGE

1039 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7900

Located on the beautiful Windsor’s Edge Vineyard. Dine right on the edge on a picturesque vineyard. Get cozy by the fire in winter or dine alfresco in the warmer months.Breathtaking views from every table through the floor to ceiling windows.

www.amandas.com.au dine@amandas.com.au DINING STYLE Smart casual dining OPENING HOURS LUNCH Fri to Mon from 12PM DINNER 7 Days 6PM - 9PM (last booking) and Saturdays 5.30PM - 9.30PM Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Welcome - bookings essential AWARDS Winner Best Restaurant in a Winery 2010 Regional & State PRICE GUIDE Main meals from $29.50 to $36.50 Extensive vegetarian menu available

MAP REF: C7

BISTRO VINDEN @ VINDEN ESTATE Come and enjoy an indoors or alfresco lunch on the terrace overlooking the vineyard. Bistro Vinden offers a seasonally changing menu using fresh Hunter Valley produce, where possible, sourced from our organic kitchen garden on-site. The menu is an eclectic compilation of foods with a distinct focus on high quality meals with depth of flavour. Food is matched with wines from the extensive and highly awarded Vinden Estate Wines portfolio, available for tasting at the cellar door. Our mantra...“Life’s too short to eat bland food”

17 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7410 www.vindenestate.com.au finewines@vindenestate.com.au OPENING HOURS Cellar Door Wed to Sun 10AM to 5PM Bistro Sat & Sun Lunch 12PM - 3PM, Sat Dinner 6 - 9PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day & Eve & Good Friday GROUPS By appointment Private functions by request up to 70 WHITE WINES Semillon, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio RED WINES Premium Merlot, Basket Press Shiraz SPARKLING Alicante Bouschet FORTIFIED WINES Late Harvest Semillon, Liqueur Semillon SPECIALTIES Alicante Bouschet Rosé and Sparkling WINEMAKER Guy Vinden PRICE RANGE Wines from $20 to $40/ bottle. Main Meals from $28 to $36. Extensive Vegetarian Menu Available. Bistro reservations recommended.

MAP REF: E5 PAGE 14 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

BLUEBERRY HILL VINEYARD

999 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7295

You’ll find your thrill on Blueberry Hill! Blueberry Hill is a long established vineyard which was once part of the old McPherson Estate. Grapes from the well-established vines produce wonderful characteristics in the wines. Six varieties are grown – Merlot, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc – some featuring in wines winning international awards.

Book in for a unique underground candlelight tasting after 5PM daily!

Blueberry Hill has a uniquely positioned cellar door with magnificent views across Hunter vineyards to the Brokenback Range. It’s a ‘must see’ for tourists and wine lovers.

www.blueberryhill.com.au blueberryhill@pacific.net.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 DAYS 10AM to 5PM Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Welcome WHITE WINES Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc RED WINES Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir SPARKLING Blanc de Noir, Rosé de Noir PRICING From $25 - $35 / bottle

MAP REF: C7

CALAIS ESTATE

151 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998-7654

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

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

www.calaiswines.com.au info@calaiswines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 DAYS 9AM - 5PM; Open until 6PM during Summer on Fri & Sat Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Welcome. Booking Essential

MAP REF: E7

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 15

CONSTABLE ESTATE

205 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7887

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

www.constablevineyards.com.au

hunter@constablevineyards.com.au

WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM to 5PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Welcome by appointment WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Merlot SPARKLING Semillon, Shiraz SPECIALTIES Sparking,Semillon, Shiraz, Botrytis Semillon WINEMAKER Liz Jackson PRICE RANGE From $10 - $50/bottle

Much more than a vineyard...

MAP REF: E4

EXP. RESTAURANT

1596 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4998-7264

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

www.exprestaurant.com.au reservations@exprestaurant.com.au DINING STYLE A unique dining experience with a produce driven menu served in a relaxed atmosphere OPENING HOURS LUNCH Wed to Sun 12pm - 3pm DINNER Wed to Sat 6pm - 9pm Closed Christmas Day PRICE GUIDE 2 for $45.00 or 4 for $70 .00

E X P. restaurant

MAP REF: F2

PAGE 16 | WINTER â&#x20AC;˘ SPRING 2015

FIRST CREEK

600 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-2992 www.firstcreekwines.com.au sales@firstcreekwines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days Mon - Sat 9.30AM - 5PM; Sun 9.30AM - 4PM GROUPS By appointment

DAILY WINERY TOURS 10:30AM • The daily Winery Tour is a fantastic opportunity to see a working winery in action. Learn about the winemaking process and experience how wine is made. • Visit our Cellar Door to taste the quality and experience the welcome. Mention this ad when booking to enjoy a complimentary cheese platter with your wine tasting (bookings essential). • 2011 Hunter Valley Winemaker of the Year, James Halliday 5 Red Star Winery since 2010.

GEMELLI ESTATE

WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Vermentino, Late Harvest Riesling RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Rosé, Grenache Shiraz Merlot, Late Harvest Shiraz SPARKLING NV Sparkling Chardonnay, NV Moscato FORTIFIED Muscat PRICE RANGE From $20 to $80/bottle WINEMAKER Liz Jackson

MAP REF: F7 WINERY TOURS

168 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998-7910

www.gemelliestate.com.au Gemelli Estate is a boutique family owned and info@gemelliestate.com.au operated vineyard. Sitting on 25 acres, we grow the Chardonnay, Merlot and Muscat grape, which are WINE TASTING & SALES all hand-picked to make our exclusive selection of Mon & Fri 10AM - 4PM wines, only available at the Cellar Door. Sat & Sun 10AM - 5PM Come and relax; with outdoor seating overlooking Closed Christmas Day & Good Friday the vines – Enjoy a glass of wine and a cheese platter. Take a walk around the gardens and our GROUPS Bookings required for 10+ art gallery, or stay the night in our self contained accommodation. Gemelli Estate provides an intimate setting for MAP REF: D7 functions, including our popular monthly High Tea. “More than wine to double your experience!”

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 17

HERMITAGE ROAD CELLARS

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

49 WINES FROM 10 SMALL HUNTER WINEMAKERS Nowhere in the Hunter can you try so many wines – under the one roof. An exclusive range of premium wines from small Hunter Valley winemakers including Andrew Thomas, David Hook, Andrew Margan, Lisa McGuigan, Polin & Polin, Stormy Ridge, San Martino, Crisford Family… just to mention a few. Hunter Valley Wine Theatre Daily at 11am & 2pm. A short 15 minute visual presentation on the history of the Hunter, grape growing, harvesting, right through to the making of wine. Then, the Cellarmaster will take you through a structured tasting of 4 of the Hunter’s best wines. $30 per person. Hunter Valley Wine School Daily at 9am - a 2 hour informal tutorial with a personalised certificate. Bookings essential. $50 per person. Matilda Bay Brewhouse Hunter Valley Open daily from 10am. The Beer Tasting Paddle is a must.

www.hunterresort.com.au wines@hunterresort.com.au OPENING HOURS Cellar Open 7 days from 10AM -5PM Hunter Valley Wine Theatre Open 7 days (Half hour sessions @11AM & 2PM) 2 hour Hunter Valley Wine School Daily at 9am – bookings essential All day dining 7 days from 12 NOON CLOSED Christmas Day & Good Friday GROUPS Welcome with booking AWARDS & SPECIALTIES • Experience the Matilda Bay Beers tasting paddle (All 12 Matilda Bay Beers) at the onsite Matilda Bay Brewhouse • Over 49 different wines from local small family winemakers incl. Lisa McGuigan, Thomas, Margan, Hook, Polin & Polin • Binnorie Cheese Dairy adjacent • Horse riding & Segways onsite MAP REF: C2

HUNTER DISTILLERY Hunter Distillery is the only locally owned and operated distillery in the Hunter Valley. We use premium quality organic raw ingredients to produce an exceptional range of top shelf spirits. Our multi award winning spirits include Gin, Vodka, Liqueurs and Schnapps. Our Distillery Door is open for sales and tastings 7 days a week.

1686 Broke Rd Pokolbin PH 4998 6737 www.HunterDistillery.com.au info@HunterDistillery.com.au TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM to 5PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS By appointment only MAP REF: F3

OAK AGED WINE Oak aging not only adds tannin but it adds esters (compounds formed in wine that contribute to a wine’s aroma), to wine including vanillan. Oak esters and tannin help balance out the harshness of a wine and add body.

All of the chemical changes in toasted oak add different esters to a wine. The duration the wine is kept in oak also affects the resulting flavour and over lengthy periods kept in oak, the wine will have a slightly increased alcohol level.

The newer the oak, the more it affects the wine. New oak barrels will often be ‘toasted’ (torched with a fire) that tends to caramelize the oak and in some instances turns some of the oak to charcoal.

For big, bold wines look for oak aging at 12+ months.

PAGE 18 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

IL CACCIATORE RESTAURANT

@ Hermitage Lodge 609 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7639 www.hermitagelodge.com.au info@hermitagelodge.com.au RESTAURANT OPENING HOURS 7 Days from 6PM GROUPS Group menus available for groups of 12 or more

Hermitage Lodge’s award-winning restaurant Il Cacciatore specialises in Northern Italian inspired cuisine. Il Cacciatore has long been a favourite with visitors and locals alike being the number one Italian restaurant in the Hunter for 7 years running. The ambience is relaxed and casual and the service is professional, friendly and attentive. The seasonal menu takes advantage of fresh local produce, authentic Italian ingredients and house made pastas. Il Cacciatore is fully licensed, with full bar service, and a wine list showcasing some of the Hunter’s best wines.

Il Cacciatore also has a second dining area and a spacious adjoining deck, which overlooks the landscaped reed-lined lake. Perfect for al fresco dining, it is also available for private dinners or cocktail parties. Il Cacciatore is open for dinner nightly from 6pm and is not open for lunch however is available for private functions during the day. Reservations are strongly recommended. Children’s menu is available for 6pm and 6.30pm reservations only. Winner of Best Italian Restaurant Hunter Region 2007 - 2014 (Restaurant & Catering Awards).

LEOGATE ESTATE Situated at the foot of the rugged Brokenback Ranges. The very picturesque Brokenback Vineyard was planted over 50 years ago by Len Evans Rothbury syndicate. Experience our trophy winning wines at our cellar door and our dry-aged, grass-fed beef in our onsite restaurant. James Halliday 5 star.

DINING STYLE The ambience is relaxed and casual and the service is professional, friendly and attentive SPECIALTIES The menu changes seasonally but some of the Il Cacciatore specialties include home-made gnocchi, sirloin steak and tiramisu PRICING Entrée $18 - $20; Main $30 - $38; Dessert $4.50 - $18. High Chairs & Vegetarian menu available

MAP REF: E6

1693 Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7499 www.leogate.com.au sales@leogate.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM - 5PM CLOSED Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day, Good Friday. WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Pinot Gris RED WINES Shiraz, Rosé, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon SPARKLING Chardonnay, White Frizzante SPECIALTIES Shiraz & Chardonnay AWARDS IWC Best Hunter Shiraz; IWC Best Wine in it’s first Year of Production; NSW Small Winemaker’s Best Red/Shiraz; HVWS Best Named Vineyard WINEMAKER Mark Woods PRICE RANGE From $22.00

MAP REF: F2

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 19

MACQUARIEDALE ORGANIC WINES Certified Organic/Biodynamic Wines We are striving to produce a range of natural wines which reflect the true terroir of our vineyards. Come and experience the richness of flavour, fullness of colour and diversity of aromas from our award winning range of wines. Our fully sustainable biodynamic farming practices result in hand crafted wines that are free of synthetic chemicals and are low in sulphur preservative (220). Our Cellar Door is set amongst beautiful gardens and has some of the best views in the valley. Tours of the vineyard and winery are available to learn more about organic/biodynamic methods. Bookings are essential. We also offer a range of biodynamic olives & olive oil. Freshly grown biodynamic garlic is available in season (November to April). We look forward to welcoming you to our Cellar Door.

170 Sweetwater Rd, Rothbury PH 6574-7012 www.macquariedale.com.au sales@macquariedale.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES 7 Days 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Group visits need to be booked MAP REF: B4 WINERY TOURS

MATILDA BAY BREWHOUSE + DINING

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

POKOLBIN’S FIRST BOUTIQUE BREWHOUSE This is where the amazing Bluetongue Brewery story began back in 2001 - now known as the Matilda Bay Brewhouse Hunter Valley. Winemakers often say “It takes a lot of beer to make a quality wine…” So what better way to finish a hard day of wine tasting in the Hunter Valley Wine Country than with a cleansing beer… Experience the unique Beer Tasting Paddle with accompanying tasting notes for each of the 12 brews. Enjoy the famous Alcoholic Ginger Beer, Minimum Chips Lager, Alpha Ale, Bohemian Pilsner, Dogbolter Black Ale, Beez Neez, Ruby Tuesday, Fat Yak, Redback, IGP, and Dirty Granny Cider. Plus the regular ‘special’ brews… This means we have 12 amazing craft brews for you to smell, look at, analyse, and taste… So come and laze away the afternoon listening to great music, or choose something delicious off the blackboard menu. Lunch – Open from 12pm until 4pm – 7 days Dinner – Open from 6pm until 9pm – 7 days

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

MAP REF: C2

MISTY GLEN WINES Come and meet Eric & Vicci at Misty Glen and try some of our fabulous wines in a relaxed atmosphere amongst the vines. We have a great range of wines made to be enjoyed with family and friends whilst indulging in a sumptuous meal or simply when relaxing on the verandah. Our wines are made from grapes grown on the property, we have a wide range from traditional Semillon to the unusual Sparkling Chambourcin.

PAGE 20 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

293 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7781 www.mistyglen.com.au wines@mistyglen.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES Fri, Sun, Mon 10AM-4PM; Sat 10AM-5PM Other days by appointment CLOSED Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day MAP REF: D5

MISTLETOE WINERY

771 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7770

MISTLETOE is a small family owned and run winery

www.mistletoewines.com.au office@mistletoewines.com.au

Now in its 26th year, Mistletoe’s “no-compromise” approach to producing small quantities of “true to origin” premium quality wine has seen it rewarded with many, many hundreds of awards and accolades.

WINE TASTING & SALES 7 DAYS 10AM - 6PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Please book in advance - maximum of 15 people

that was established by the current owners in 1989. All Mistletoe wines are made in our on site winery.

Recent accolades / awards include: • Trophy – Best Semillon – Winewise Small Vignerons Awards 2014 • Trophy – Reserve Semillon 2013 – Hunter Valley Boutique Winemakers Show 2014 • Winestate 5 Star rating – 2013 Hunter Shiraz • Champion White Wine of Show – NSW Small Winemakers Show 2013 • Blue/Gold Top 100 Award – Sydney International Wine Competition 2013 • One of the Top 10 Australian Rosés – James Halliday Australian Wine Companion 2015 Mistletoe wines are only sold direct to the public through our cellar door but are available at selected restaurants throughout the Hunter Valley, Sydney, Newcastle and the Blue Mountains.

WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho RED WINES Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet SPARKLING Bottle fermented Blanc de Blanc (100% Chardonnay), Sparkling Rosé, Sparkling Mozcato (yes with a Z – it is from OZ!) FORTIFIED White Muscat SPECIALTIES Three different Rosés WINEMAKER Nick Paterson Hunter Valley Winemaker of the Year 2012 PRICING From $18 - $65 / bottle

MAP REF: C2

MOOREBANK VINEYARD ESTATE Get MooreScato at Moorebank! Taste a creative twist on the traditional Moscato style that is crimson in colour & slightly off dry.

“Conserve Water… Drink Moorebank Wines” The Moorebank family first produced wines in the Hunter Valley in the 1840’s, today they continue to produce outstanding wines at the family owned boutique vineyard. Moorebank Vineyard Estate’s also produce a range of handmade wine inspired products, some of which have come from Debra Moore’s 102 year old grandmother.

150 Palmers Lane Pokolbin PH 4998-7610 www.moorebankvineyard.com.au grapes@moorebankvineyard.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 DAYS 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day & Good Friday GROUPS Welcome AWARDS ‘Best Small Vineyard’ for 3 consecutive years ‘Woman of Enterprise’ Award PRICE RANGE $20 - $47.50

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

MAP REF: D7 ANIMALS

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 21

MUSE KITCHEN This modern European style restaurant is the latest venture for husband and wife team Troy and Megan Rhoades - Brown who established Muse Kitchen to complement their already highly popular Muse Restaurant. Tastefully decorated with French provincial furnishings, this charming and welcoming little restaurant is located at the Keith Tulloch Wine complex on Hermitage Rd and is the perfect venue to treat yourself to that perfect lunch. After a visit to Muse Kitchen it’s easy to see why it is now considered one of the most enjoyable dining experiences in the Hunter Valley.

Keith Tulloch Wines, Lot 17 Hermitage Rd Pokolbin PH 4998-7899 www.musedining.com.au muse@musedining.com.au DINING STYLE European OPENING HOURS LUNCH Wed to Sun 12PM - 3PM DINNER Sat 6PM - 9PM

Muse Kitchen boasts a more personal approach to food, wine and service delivering European inspired food that is season and produce driven. Muse Kitchen - where hearty regional fare is served with little fuss in an obliging and relaxed environment.

GROUPS Bookings Essential for groups up to 45 Private functions by request (evenings only) PRICE GUIDE Main meals from $28 to $36 AWARDS SMH Good Food Guide One Chefs Hat 2013, 2014 and 2015

MAP REF: D2

OAKVALE WINERY

1596 Broke Rd Pokolbin PH 4998-7088 www.oakvalewines.com.au info@oakvalewines.com.au

EXPERIENCE THE NEW HUNTER Looking for a new experience in the Hunter Valley? Drop in to Oakvale Wines. Our family-owned winery is breathing new life into the traditional winery scene, with a passion for viticultural practices and minimal intervention winemaking. Our fresh, vibrant and elegant wines are sold exclusively through our welcoming cellar door, which sits at the foothills of the Brokenback Range. And as one of the Hunter’s only cider producers, Oakvale offers visitors a taste of its refreshing gourmet ciders. Every face behind our cellar door is warm and receptive to all kinds of questions – from local knowledge and regional characteristics to insightful wine-tasting education. Please join us for a taste of the new Hunter Valley. PAGE 22 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

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

MAP REF: F2

RIDGEVIEW

273 Sweetwater Rd, Pokolbin PH 6574-7332

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

“Our Passion, Your Reward” Darren & Tracey Scott

www.ridgeview.com.au wines@ridgeview.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES Wed to Sun 10AM to 5PM GROUPS Bookings Essential WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Viognier, Traminer, Pinot Gris, Botrytis Semillon, Late Harvest Viognier and other blends RED WINES Shiraz, Merlot, Chambourcin, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet/Merlot, Rosé and other blends SPARKLING Pinot Noir/Chardonnay, Shiraz FORTIFIED WINES Shiraz, Verdelho WINEMAKER Darren Scott, Gary Maclean & Mark Woods PRICE RANGE From $20 - $50/bottle RESTAURANT OPENING HOURS

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

BREAKFAST Fri - Sun From 9AM LUNCH Thurs - Sun From Midday All Day Dining DINNER Thurs & Sun until 8PM; Fri & Sat until Late DINING STYLE ‘Mezedhes’ - sharing dishes. Signature taste plate with matching wines (samples of 3 mezedhes perfectly paired to estate grown wines) ‘Meze Feast’ - 12 mezedhes over 4 courses (allow 2 - 3 hours for a relaxed dining experience) Breakfast uses eggs from our free range hens Alfresco dining overlooking our picturesque vineyards Onsite organic kitchen garden Gluten free and vegetarian options All day dining MENU Cypriot Meze Feast (taste of 12 Mezedhes) $70pp Mezedhes $5 - $25

MAP REF: B4

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 23

PEACOCK HILL

29 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998-7661 www.peacockhill.com.au info@peacockhill.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 DAYS 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day WHITE WINES Chardonnay RED WINES Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon/ Cabernet Franc/ Merlot SPARKLING Blanc de Blanc FORTIFIED Port Style, Dessert Wine SPECIALTIES Food friendly easy drinking styles,Classically dry styles PRICING From $15 - $80 / bottle

The best way to experience Peacock Hill is to visit our Cellar Door. We will guide you through a tasting of our uniquely different, handcrafted wines, incorporating the stories behind the names. Here, you can purchase by the bottle or by the case.

ROTHVALE WINERY Discover the “True Spirit of the Hunter” at our family operated boutique Winery. From Vines first planted in the 1970’s, we produce award winning classics of Semillon, Chardonnay, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. Our premium boutique wines offer depth, complexity and true Hunter Valley terroir.

MAP REF: E8

223 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7290 www.rothvale.com.au wines@rothvale.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM to 4PM Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Groups up to 24 people welcome Wine education and wine and food matching. Group bookings required WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Semillon / Chardonnay and Verdelho blend RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot FORTIFIED Port SPECIALTIES French and American oak barrel fermented chardonnay WINEMAKERS Luke Patton & Max Patton PRICE RANGE From $20 to $30/bottle

MAP REF: D4

PAGE 24 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

THE VERANDAH RESTAURANT

Palmers Lane, Pokolbin PH 4998-7231

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

www.verandahrestaurant.com.au

bookings@verandahrestaurant.com.au

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

MAP REF: E7

THOMAS ALLEN WINES

1733 Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7250 www.thomasallenwines.com.au info@thomasallenwines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM to 5PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Welcome by appointment Ask us about our private Members Table dinners WHITE WINES Chardonnay, Chardonnay/Sauvignon Blanc RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache/Shiraz/Merlot SPECIALTIES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay WINEMAKER Craig Thomas & Steve Allen PRICE RANGE From $22 to $50/bottle

Planted in 1969, our Moon Mountain Vineyard is the source of all fruit used in our Estate Wines, producing early ripening, high quality, flavour intense fruit in limited quantities. We look forward to welcoming you to our Cellar Door and we are sure you will agree that the wines, the views, the vineyard and the personal service are second to none. Steve Allen & Craig Thomas

MAP REF: F3 WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 25

TINTILLA ESTATE

725 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin PH 6574-7093 www.tintilla.com.au info@tintilla.com.au

tintilla estate

WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10.30AM to 6PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Bookings Essential PH 6574-7093

Essential Hunter Semillon, Shiraz, Sangiovese

WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay RED WINES Shiraz, Sangiovese, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet SPARKLING Red, White, Blush FORTIFIED WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Shiraz in Vintage and Barrel Aged Styles AWARDS James Halliday rating WINEMAKERS James Lusby & Robert Lusby PRICE RANGE From $20 to $60/bottle

Verjus, Olives and Tepenade

www.tintilla.com.au MAP REF: C2

TWO FAT BLOKES GOURMET KITCHEN

At de-Iuliis Wines 1616 Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-6699

Casual dining at its best. Great variety of food & wine matching platters & beer & food tasting platters. Picnic baskets, Lovely menu, great staff and great atmosphere. Come for coffee & sweets, lunch or a cheese & wine platter. Love your cheese and wine, but are not sure how to serve them together? Cheese & wine tutorials at 11am & 3pm 7 days - $25 pp. Bookings preferred.

PAGE 26 | WINTER â&#x20AC;˘ SPRING 2015

www.twofatblokes.com.au info@twofatblokes.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 DAYS 10AM - 5PM Breakfast Sat & Sun from 9AM Casual lunches, Food & Wine Tasting Platters, Beer & Wine Tasting Platters, Coffee & Sweets all day PRICE GUIDE Main Meal $20 - $30 MAP REF: F2

“Quality without compromise”

OPEN 10AM UNTIL 6PM DAILY MISTLETOE is a small family owned and run winery that was established by the current owners in 1989. Now in its 26th year, Mistletoe’s “no-compromise” approach to producing small quantities of “true to origin” premium quality wine has seen it rewarded with many, many hundreds of awards and accolades. Recent accolades / awards include: • Trophy – Best Semillon – Winewise Small Vignerons Awards 2014 • Trophy – Reserve Semillon 2013 – Hunter Valley Boutique Winemakers Show 2014 • Winestate 5 Star rating – 2013 Hunter Shiraz • Champion White Wine of Show – NSW Small Winemakers Show 2013 • Blue/Gold Top 100 Award – Sydney International Wine Competition 2013 • One of the Top 10 Australian Rosés – James Halliday Australian Wine Companion 2015 • NSW Wine of the Year 2011 With over 20 different wines, including Sparkling, Whites, Reds, Rosés, Fortified and Dessert styles on tasting, Mistletoe has one of the most comprehensive ranges of wines to be seen in the Hunter. • All wines are made in our onsite winery • Winery tastings available for larger groups – bookings essential! • Mistletoe Wines are only available for purchase from the Winery Cellar Door • Knowledgeable and friendly staff to make you welcome

When visiting Mistletoe be sure to take time to visit POKOLBIN GALLERY and MISTLETOE SCULPTURE GARDEN also in the grounds of the Cellar Door.

771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin 2320

PH 1800 055 080 FAX 02 4998 7792 E office@mistletoewines.com | W www.mistletoewines.com

The Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s best white wine areas - consistently winning a disproportionate number of awards in National Wine Shows. While the area is famous for its long lived Semillon white wines, the Hunter Valley is also known for producing Australia’s first Chardonnays in the 1970’s and the popular single varietal wine - Verdelho, has been planted in the Hunter Valley for over 100 years. SEMILLON - Often referred to as ‘’Australia’s unique gift to the wine world’’, Hunter Valley Semillon is a unique white wine which keeps getting better with age and is considered to be the highest quality and best example of dry white Sémillon wine produced anywhere in the world. Classic Hunter Sémillon is restrained, with piercing acidity and lemon flavours and are renown for their ability to age well, evolving through an array flavours, slowly developing into richer and more honeyed characters. CHARDONNAY - This adaptable and hearty grape flourishes easily in most climates and conditions, and is now one of the most widely-planted grape varieties worldwide, is planted in more wine regions than any other and is an important component of many sparkling wines around the world, including Champagne. VERDELHO - The characteristics of Verdelho vary significantly according to the climate, growing conditions, the wine-maker’s skill as well as 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.

PAGE 28 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

PINOT GRIGIO (also known as pinot gris) Although they are the same grape, the two names have over time come to infer two different styles of wine. Immensely popular, the Italian style Pinot Grigio wines are typically lighterbodied, crisp, fresh, with vibrant stone fruit and floral aromas and a hint of spice. In contrast, Pinot Gris wines are more full-bodied, richer, spicier, and more viscous in texture. They also tend to have greater cellaring and ageing potential. VIOGNIER - Although a relatively new white grape variety to Australia, it is rapidly gaining a strong following. The most distinctive attribute of Viognier is its stone fruit character, most notably that of apricot or peach and its generous alcohol content and low acidity. There are other powerful flower, fruit and spice aromas evident in these wines - which are dependant on where the grapes are grown, the weather conditions and age of the vines. Most of these wines are intended to be consumed young, although some - especially those from old vines and the late-harvest wines, are suitable for ageing. GEWÜRZTRAMINER - In Australia this variety is also known as Traminer, especially in the warmer regions where it is most commonly used as a blending companion for Riesling. The wines are highly perfumed and quite full-bodied, more so than other white wines. The bouquet is intense and complex, offering an explosion of exotic fruits such as lychee, passion fruit, pineapple and mango characters with rose petal, gardenia, honeysuckle and even spicy (gingerbread, peppermint, cloves and pepper) aromas. In fact the name Gewurztraminer literally translates as “spicy Traminer”.

THE CRAFT ALE! “Rich passionfruit and citrus flavours balanced by a toasted caramel and malt sweetness make this a flavour sensation…”

It’s the sort of richly detailed description of flavour you’d expect to find on a wine label – not on the back of beer bottle.

PAGE 30 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

ALL HAIL THE CRAFT ALE! After too many years of consuming schooners of factory-line formulations, increasing numbers of Australian beer drinkers are looking for something more – something different. Something that is not just brewed, but instead something that has been crafted. Today the amber fluid has a far more sophisticated image, with beer lovers all over the world experimenting with new, innovative and interesting varieties, from diverse places and even matching them to food. Australia is very quickly catching up with America and the rest of the world in terms of craft brewing – with people becoming increasingly educated about beer and more aware of boutique producers, non-mainstream brands and the different flavours in beer. In many ways, the beer market is following the same trend as most other food products, where people are tending to focus on flavour first. The result of this is a move away from industrial main stream beer to premium boutique beers, including the hand-crafted varieties. It’s a phenomenon that has been sweeping bars and bottle shops across Australia for the past few years – with the Hunter right at the forefront of this craft beer revolution. For more than a decade, the Hunter has been home to one of Australia’s smallest craft beer breweries – the Hunter Beer Co. Located in the grounds of Potters Hotel and Brewery at Nulkaba, the business was established in 2003 and originally contracted to brew St Arnou beers for a Sydney-based craft beer company. Today, with Keith Grice as Head Brewer, the Hunter Beer Company offers an array of multiaward winning beers – from the bold American style Pale Ale, the dark German styled Bock, the ever popular full strength Lager and the refreshing Kolsch to the pale, light flavoured Belgian Witbier. There is also a deliciously crisp Ginger Beer, low alcohol beers and seasonal beers. “The industry and Hunter Beer Co. have gone gangbusters,” says Keith. “The volume of beer that we produce has grown dramatically, with the Hunter Beer Co. now producing three times as much beer a year than we used to a few years ago.” This phenomenal growth of the craft beer industry is reflected throughout Australia with the number of breweries in Australia now numbering somewhere between 200 and 250 breweries. Almost half of that number were opened in the last three years.

Similarly in the Hunter Valley, two new breweries – Hope Brewhouse at Hope Estate and the Lovedale Brewery have opened in the last 12 months. When you talk to Keith, his unbridled love of and enthusiasm for the beers he brews is clear – as is his belief of what is driving this exodus from commercial concoctions to craft beer brews. “The main reason is flavour – craft beer has flavour,” said Keith. Keith also believes that one of the big differences about the craft beer industry is that it’s very much a people business – where people can get to meet and talk to the people who are brewing the beer. “Genuine craft is small scale and that’s one of the things that I love about where I work, that you can walk in and you meet the people who are brewing the beer that ends up in your glass”, he said. While Hunter Beer Co. continues to brew its classic styles, there is always something new on tap to tempt the tastebuds of the craft novice and connoisseur alike. More recently this included everything from their Slaked Magpie vanilla milk porter, to Liquid Bacon – a beer that, despite not containing any trace of actual meat, still managed to deliver the sumptuous smell and taste of smoked bacon. Each year, the Hunter Beer Co. also offer up their annual Christmas Ale – a dark and spicy beer with a Belgium twist that tastes of a festive fruit cake – as well as a mixed berry beer perfect for summery Sunday afternoons. “Variety is what drives the market at the moment”, Keith said. At Hope Brewhouse, brewer Matt Hogan brings a winemakers approach to brewing, adding new dimensions to old favourites and an ever changing proposition. At any given time Hope Brewhouse has about 10 different beers on the go, from classic sunny afternoon cleansers, to heavyweight oak barrel flavoured monsters. What is clear is that the rapid increase in the number of local breweries, along with the increasing popularity of these hand-crafted beers, reflects the growing demand for this more flavoursome brew and confirms that people are becoming increasingly adventurous and educated about beer and the different flavours available to them. Blessed are the brewers! WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 31

Much more than a

vineyard...

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

205 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin Ph 02 4998 7887 E hunter@constablevineyards.com.au www.constablevineyards.com.au

food hampers

PAGE 32 | WINTER â&#x20AC;˘ SPRING 2015

gourmet take away food

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 33

Pokolbin South Wine & Dine Trail DeBeyers

y untr e Co Win

M cd on al ds Rd

Broke Road

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Oakey Cr

eek Rd

The area of Pokolbin is synonymous with all things relating to wine and food and is internationally recognised for its world class vineyards and restaurants and for being Australia’s oldest commercial wine producing area - with some vineyards being in operation for well over 120 years. Pokolbin is considered the ‘’hub’’ of the Hunter Valley wine region and where the largest collection of wineries, accommodation houses and restaurants can be found. Viticulture in the Hunter Valley is often considered to have commenced with James Busby when on returning from a tour of French and South African vineyards in the 1830’s brought with him numerous cuttings of vines, sending half to the newly established Royal Botanical Gardens in Sydney and the remaining vines planted at the family estate of Kirkton - just north of Belford. It was there he established what was probably the first vineyard in the region. Some of the most well respected names in Hunter Valley wine history today shortly followed establishing vineyards in the area in the 1850’s Some of these long-established names are still in existence today.

PAGE

And the Winner is Oscars

Aust. Regional Food Store

Blaxlands Inn

Pokolbin South Trail provides information and the location of cellar doors, restaurants and gourmet food providers located on the southern side of Pokolbin - the area stretching from Broke Road to Oakey Creek Road and includes some of the most highly regarded and award winning restaurants and wines available in the Hunter.

For more information about events visit www.HunterValleyOnline.com.au or www.hvg.com.au

NAME

Buon Cibo Ristorante Chez Pok

Circa 1876

Drayton’s Family Wines

Drayton’s Log Press Café

Eighty Eight

Elements Bar and DIning Elizabeth’s

Ernest Hill Wines

Goldfish Bar and Kitchen

Gundog Estate

Hanging Tree Wines

Harrigan’s Irish Pub

Y Y

Hope Estate/Harvest Restaurant

Hungerford Hill Wines

Hunter Valley Cheese Co.

Hunter Valley Chocolate Co.

Infuzion Restaurant

C3/C6

Iron Gate Estate

Ivanhoe Wines

Kevin Sobels Wines

Lambloch Estate

McLeish Estate

Muse Restaurant

Oishii Japanese Thai

Y Y

Peterson House

Pokolbin Estate

THINGS TO SEE & DO

Restaurant Cuvee

Visit Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village With 17 specialty shops, 4 restaurants and cafes, an amazing hair salon & beauty spa, putt putt and aqua golf plus the largest display gardens in the southern hemisphere, this is a shopping village that is a fun day out for the whole family! Broke Road Pokolbin.

Tamburlaine Organic Wines

Thalgara Estate

PAGE 34 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

MAP

The Cellar Restaurant

Twine Restaurant

Wine Selectors

Wynwood Estate

Y Y

104

Hunter Valley Gardens Village Hunter Valley Chocolate Co. The Cellar Restaurant And The Winner is Oscars

Harrigan’s Irish Pub EKERTS RD

BROKE

Tempus Two Complex Oishii Japanese Thai Goldﬁsh

Elements Bar & Dining

Hope Estate & Harvest Restaurant HV Chocolate Co. Peterson House & Restaurant Cuvee BROK

Buon Cibo Restaurant

E RD

Chez Pok HV Cheese Co. PS M SR

Circa 1876

HALLS RD

O TH

Aust. Regional Blaxlands Food Store Inn

Kevin Sobels

Tamburlaine

Thalgara Estate DEBEYERS RD

MCDONALDS RD

DEBEYE

Gundog Estate

Wine Selectors

RS RD

Ernest Hill Wines

Infuzion Restaurant

Ivanhoe Wines OA

Hanging Tree Wines Wynwood Estate O’CONN ORS RD & Twine Restaurant

KEY C Drayton’s Family REEK RD Wines & Log Press Café

MAR ROW B

MAP LEGEND

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Elizabeth’s

Mcleish Estate

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Iron Gate Estate

CHEZ POK

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

R TRY D COUN WINE

Eighty Eight Pokolbin Estate & Hunter Olive Centre

Hungerford Hill & Muse Restaurant

Lambloch Estate 2320 HV Chocolate Co.

Ekerts Rd, Pokolbin PH 4993-8999 www.peppers.com.au chezpok@peppers.com.au

Chez Pok is a Hunter Valley icon, inspiring locals and lovers of food since 1984. Chez Pok offers a unique dining experience that showcases the best of the region’s local food and wine. Rustic French influences and an ever changing menu ensure a delicious dining experience. Enjoy the picturesque view across the valley, a romantic table for two on the outdoor terrace or by the fireside in winter.

OPENING HOURS BREAKFAST 7 Days Mon - Fri 7AM - 10AM; Sat/Sun 7.30AM-10.30AM LUNCH Fri - Sun 12.30PM-3PM DINNER 7 Nights 6.30PM-9PM DINING STYLE French influenced Hunter Valley menu MAP REF: C2

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 35

AND THE WINNER IS OSCARS And the Winner is Oscars Café is located in the Hunter valley gardens village. We serve honest wholesome food in a relaxed environment. We have a delicious breakfast menu, morning tea options, gourmet lunch options, great GLEE coffee and an ice creamery.

Shop 15, Hunter Valley Gardens Broke Rd Pokolbin PH 4998-7355 info@thewinnerisoscars.com.au OPENING HOURS Mon, Tues & Fri 9am - 4pm Sat & Sun 8am - 4pm Open 7 days in school holidays

DINING STYLE •Family Friendly •Casual Environment •Vegetarians & GF options All of our menus are available available to dine in or take away. We accommodate for groups and have •Dine in & Takeaway set menus, high teas and picnic GROUPS hampers available. •Welcome •Set menu available upon request Come in and meet our friendly team or call 4998 7355 to PRICE GUIDE book now. From $15 to $30. BYO, no corkage!

MAP REF: C3

AUST. REGIONAL FOOD STORE

426 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-6800

• Dine indoor or alfresco in our stunning natural bushland setting with peaceful water views. • Modern Australian cuisine, fully licensed. Trained barista’s working daily. • Childrens menu, light snacks available. • Dogs welcome outdoors (please bring leash). • Free Wi-Fi & Travellers information

australianregionalfoods.com.au australianregionalfood@westnet.com.au

DINING STYLE Clean, green Aussie produce in a relaxed bush setting. OPENING HOURS 7 Days 9AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day & Good Friday GROUPS Bookings Essential PRICE GUIDE Main Meals from $17 to $23 SPECIALTIES Family friendly dining, high chairs available and Vegetarian menu Dine inside or al fresco

MAP REF: C4 PAGE 36 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

BLAXLANDS INN

2198 Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7550

Nestled in the heart of the Hunter Valley, in Pokolbin. Blaxland’s Inn is situated next to Tower Estate on 100 acres of vineyards and gardens. Offering a relaxed experience with a casual enjoyable atmosphere, it is the perfect place for a great meal with family and friends, or a cold drink after a long day of exploring all that the beautiful Hunter Valley has to offer. Offering a warm country ambience, with friendly staff and great value meals, a trip to the Hunter Valley would not be complete without calling in to see us. Dine inside by our open fire, or outside under the stars. With an outdoor campfire, you can relax and unwind whilst enjoying a truly Australian experience. Our meals range from Certified Angus steaks, salads and burgers. You might also be tempted to try one of our famous deep dish pies! Blaxland’s provides an alternative watering hole, a place to relax and unwind with a refreshing ale or glass of wine selected from the best local boutique wineries. We are able to cater for small or large groups and for any functions. Our courtesy vehicle is available for pickup and drop off within the Valley (bookings advised).

www.blaxlandsinn.com.au info@blaxlandsinn.com.au DINING STYLE Casual dining OPENING HOURS LUNCH Wed - Sun from 12PM-3PM DINNER Wed - Sun from 6PM-9PM CAFÉ Wed - Sun All Day GROUPS Groups welcome SPECIALITIES & AWARDS Certified angus beef & deep dish pies Trip Advisor Restaurant Excellence Award PRICE GUIDE Main meals from $12.95 - $44.95

MAP REF: C5

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 37

BUON CIBO RISTORANTE

Pokolbin Village, 2188 Broke Rd Pokolbin PH 4998-7945

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

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

MAP REF: C4

CIRCA 1876

64 Halls Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-4998 Circa 1876 {EAT. DRINK. STAY. PLAY} Begin with a sip of perfection in our Taittinger Champagne Lounge, then head through to your table underneath ornate chandeliers surrounded by rich, wooden furniture. Peruse our organically minded, modern Australian, farm to fork menu. If you cannot choose your favourite from our deep and decadent selection, one of our divine staff will help guide you through the different dishes available. Understanding the nuances of each plate will help you create the perfect path for your dining experience. Our own bees supply bush honey, free range chickens offer up our eggs each day, and a lush, bountiful kitchen garden is lovingly tended to by Chefs with a passion for presenting you produce that comes light on carbon footprint and high on flavour. Sink into the rich soil of Circa 1876 and transport yourself you to a truly exceptional dining experience.

PAGE 38 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

www.circa1876.com info@circa1876.com DINING STYLE Fine Dining OPENING HOURS LUNCH 7 Days from 12PM DINNER 7 Nights 6.30PM until late GROUPS Bookings Essential SPECIALTIES Ethical and Sustainable Paddock to Plate menu PRICE GUIDE Main Meals from $25 to $45 OTHER High-chairs and Vegetarian options available

H U N T E R

V A L L E Y

MAP REF: C5

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

proudly produce wines of outstanding quality and standing. Drayton’s Family Wines provides something for everyone under the labels of Oakey Creek, New Generation, Hunter Valley, Vineyard Reserve and Heritage Vines. The range of Limited Release wines are also of exceptional quality. Drayton’s Family Wines are also prominent producers of premium ports and fortified wines, with one of the largest ranges of fortifieds in Hunter Valley Wine Country. Open 7 days, winery tours are available by appointment as well as private group tastings in our ‘Log Press Room’. To complete your visit the Drayton’s Log Press Cafe offers delicious morning teas, lunch and afternoon teas in a relaxed friendly atmosphere.

Pioneers of the Hunter – Since 1853

555 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7513 www.draytonswines.com.au drink@draytonswines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days Mon - Fri 8AM - 5PM Sat & Sun 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Welcome. We recommend bus groups make a booking WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Traminer, Verdelho, Sauvignon Blanc RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot FORTIFIED WINES Vast range of fortified wines including Liqueur Verdelho & 1978 Tawny SPARKLING Traditional, Charmat Method AWARDS Over the past 20 years the Liqueur Verdelho has been awarded10 x Gold, 10 x Top Gold & 12 x Trophies. WINEMAKER Edgar Vales PRICE RANGE From $8 - $70/bottle MAP REF: F3 WINERY TOURS

DRAYTONS LOG PRESS CAFÉ

555 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7513

Located at Drayton’s Family Wines on the hill. Sisters, Georgina & Susan have a team of great staff to look after you with delicious breakfast & lunch options, their terrific in-house made desserts and rich flavoured Danes Coffee. From cranky eggs, to open grilled chicken sandwich to the famous malteser caramel baked cheesecake, you will be sure to find something for everyone. They also provide a wide range of local olive oils, chutneys, preserves as well as locally handmade scented candles & chocolates to offer as a special gift idea….

grinegd@hotmail.com OPENING HOURS 7 DAYS Mon - Fri 9AM - 5PM Sat & Sun 8AM - 4PM GROUPS Group bookings welcome Private Functions, High Tea’s, Off Site Catering DINING STYLE Home style casual Dining SPECIALTIES House-made desserts MAIN MEAL PRICE $16 - $25.50

MAP REF: F3

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 39

EIGHTY EIGHT

88 Halls Road, Pokolbin PH 4998-4999

Eighty Eight is a restaurant for lovers. Those passionate about sustainability and fresh food will be enraptured with this experience. Ethically sourced ingredients with minimal environmental impact and blended perfectly with a focus on non –allergenic comfort food. The menu is broad and hearty with a strong selection of vegetarian and gluten free options. The true heroes of the menu are the incredible flavours found in each dish due in large part to their local origins. When was the last time you remember tasting a whole meal prepared from ingredients so fresh that they all came from either the ground at your feet, or were sourced from sustainable farmers in the local area? Nestled within the grounds of Peppers Convent, and offering superb service and comfort, make sure to add Eighty Eight to your next foodie trail through the Hunter Valley. It is the future of farm to fork dining.

www.peppersconvent.com convent@peppers.com.au OPENING HOURS Open for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & High Tea Monday to Thursday 7am - 3pm Friday to Sunday 7am - Late GROUPS For group bookings 12+ please contact events@circa1876.com or call (02) 4998 4989 DINING STYLE Casual and fine dining, using fresh seasonal produce with a French flair, vegetarian menu available SPECIALTIES Organic and ethical menu, Caters to all dietary preferences allergies & intolerances PRICE RANGE From $12.00 to $64.00

MAP REF: D5

ELEMENTS BAR & DINING

Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-2000 www.mercurehuntervalley.com.au reception@mercurehuntervalley.com.au

OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri 5.30PM - 9PM Sat & Sun 12PM - 9PM Open on Christmas for lunch only. GROUPS Bookings in advance. DINING STYLE Casual dining with a menu that highlights the best of local produce as well as a french feel. Vegetarian menu available. SPECIALTIES & AWARDS ‘New Restaurant’ September 2014. Come and try our Snapper Souffle! PRICE RANGE 2-course $58.00 pp or 3-course $68.00 pp.

the inception of éléments bar and dining has unified the earthy stone feel with fresh water fountain views, a warm fire and art works delivering conversation pieces for your evening. PAGE 40 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

MAP REF: C3

ELIZABETH’S

401 Marrowbone Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7505 www.mountpleasantwines.com.au elizabeths@mcwilliamswines.com.au

OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday 12pm - 3pm Saturday and Sunday 9AM - 3PM Closed Christmas Day & Good Friday GROUPS Groups welcome - up to 50 people (set menu, bookings essential)

Elizabeth’s allows guests the opportunity to enjoy seasonal produce complimented with McWilliams Mount Pleasant’s well awarded wines. Located in Pokolbin, the Estate boasts some of the world’s oldest shiraz vines. A great location for weddings, functions and private dinners.

DINING STYLE Modern Australian cuisine PRICE GUIDE Meals from $15 - $30 OTHER Highchairs available. No BYO Vegetarian Options

MAP REF: G2

ERNEST HILL WINES

307 Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba PH 4991-4418

It’s our pleasure to be part of your wine journey…

www.ernesthillwines.com.au wines@ernesthillwines.com.au

Unique & Boutique • Family owned and operated. Call in and meet the Wilson family. • Wines exclusive to the Cellar Door and selected local restaurants

OPENING HOURS 7 Days 10AM to 5PM, Closed on Christmas Day & New Years Day GROUPS Groups welcome

Internationally Acclaimed Wines • We are passionate about the quality of our wines and our winemaking practices, which enable us to produce wines of the highest quality. • Home of the multi-award winning ‘Cyril’ semillon, ‘Alexander’ chardonnay and the ‘William Henry’ shiraz Unique Wines • Sample our delicious quartet of unique lighter style dessert wines. The ‘Silver Moon’ Botrytis Semillon, the red and white moscato styles, ‘Luna Spark’ and ‘Luna Rouge’ and our late harvest Gewurztraminer ‘Moondance’. • Complete the tasting with our luscious liqueur Muscat, the 11 O’Clocker. Excellent Service • Friendly and informative service in the relaxed surroundings of our picturesque cellar door, with spectacular views of the Hunter Valley.

WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Unwooded Chardonnay, Moscato Style Semillon, Dessert Semillon, Dessert Gewurztraminer RED WINES Shiraz, Merlot, Tempranillo, Cabernet, Shiraz (Rosé), Moscato (Red) SPECIALTIES & AWARDS Estate grown Tempranillo, Merlot/ Cabernet Range of lighter style sweet wines. Reserve William Henry Shiraz, Reserve Alexander Chardonnay, Liqueur Muscat 11 O’Clocker WINEMAKER Mark Woods PRICE RANGE From $18 - $50/bottle

MAP REF: E7 WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 41

GOLDFISH

Cnr Broke & McDonald’s Rds, Pokolbin PH 4998-7688 www.thegoldfish.com.au infohv@thegoldfish.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 Days Midday - Late Food available until late GROUPS Welcome. Bookings required functions@thegoldfish.com.au

Tantalising Drinks Overlooking the Vines

DINING STYLE Casual share style dining AWARDS 2013 R&CA awards small bar national winner, 2013/2014 Bar awards small bar regional finalists SPECIALTIES World-Class Cocktails Must-have Pizzas Child Friendly Vegetarian Menu Options Terrace Dining MAIN MEAL PRICE $18 - $32

FOOD - COCKTAILS - WINE Extensive new / old world wine and cocktail list with an international food menu Open 7 days - 12pm til late. Never closed before midnight on Friday’s & Saturday’s. • Food available at all times • No room hire for events • Cocktail classes • Courtesy shuttle Fri/Sat nights • Late night pizzas to 11pm on Fridays and midnight on Saturday’s

MAP REF: C4

WWW.THEGOLDFISH.COM.AU

GUNDOG ESTATE

101 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-6873

“Best Small Cellar Door – Lower Hunter” Gourmet Traveller WINE Magazine “Five Star Winery” 2015 James Halliday Wine Companion

www.gundogestate.com.au sales@gundogestate.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM-5PM Closed Christmas Day, New Years Day & Good Friday GROUPS Maximum group size 12 people

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

Gundog – Redefining the tasting experience PAGE 42 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

WHITE WINES Semillon RED WINES Shiraz FORTIFIED WINES Muscat AWARDS - Numerous Gold and Silver Medals in 2014; Hunter Valley Wine Show, NSW Small Winemakers Show, Australian Boutique Winemakers Show, Royal Queensland Wine Show SPECIALTIES Semillon & Shiraz WINEMAKER Matt Burton PRICE RANGE From $25 to $60/bottle

MAP REF: E2

HANGING TREE WINES

294 O’Connors Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-6608 www.hangingtreewines.com.au info@hangingtreewines.com.au

Hanging Tree Wines offers one of the most welcoming cellar doors - housed within an old cow-shed and surrounded by vines, rose-beds, horsewhispering lodge and an original black-smith’s cottage. The Hanging Tree stands tall at the entrance of the property - the site where beasts (and rumoured bushrangers), from the first settlement, were hung. Hanging Tree grapes are handpicked from aged vines and handcrafted to produce various red, white, sparkling, and fortified wines. So come book your next getaway/ function or pop in today to taste our award-winning wines.

WINE TASTING & SALES Fri, Sat, Sun & Public Holidays 10AM to 5PM Weekdays by appointment Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Welcome on booking WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay RED WINES Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Grenache, Merlot, Blends FORTIFIED WINES Port, Botrytis Semillon, Reserve Aged Muscat SPARKLING Brut, Moscato SPECIALTIES & AWARDS Hunter Valley Boutique Wine Makers Show - Silver & Bronze Medals, Cowra Wine Show - Silver & Bronze Awards WINEMAKERS Gary Reed & Gary McCLean PRICE RANGE From $20 - $80/bottle MAP REF: F6

HARRIGANS IRISH PUB

Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-4300

Harrigan’s Irish Pub offers excellent meals with generous servings in a friendly relaxed atmosphere at affordable prices. The bistro at Harrigan’s is well known for its great service and value for money.

www.harrigans.com.au enquiries@harrigans.com.au

DINING STYLE Casual pub-style dining OPENING HOURS BREAKFAST 7 Days 7AM - 10.30AM LUNCH 7 Days 12PM - 3PM A popular stable of hearty pub DINNER 7 Nights 6PM - 9.30PM meals, including the Beef & CLOSED 25th December Guinness Pie, provide tourists and locals alike with a great GROUPS alternative to café & restaurant Bookings essential meals. SPECIALTIES With an open fire in the cooler Beef & Guinness Pie months and an extensive deck Good hearty traditional pub meals and outdoor dining area available AWARDS on warmer days there are heaps Sydney Morning Herald - Top 3 Best of options at Harrigan’s! Country Pubs 2010. Score 18/20 On the weekends a free jumping PRICE GUIDE castle is on hand for the kids and Main meals from $18.90 to $39 regular promotions, events and live entertainment ensure there’s always something happening. The sports bar features a pool table and the only TAB in the winery precinct. Good times, great food and cool ale are always standard fare at Harrigan’s Irish Pub.

MAP REF: C3 WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 43

HOPE ESTATE Hope Estate is perfectly located in the heart of Pokolbin in the Hunter Valley and set on 420 acres just two hours from Sydney. Hope Estate is the ultimate location for estate produced wines, fine dining, weddings, functions and is home to the Pokolbin’s newest Craft Brewery. The Estate is also home to the Australia’s largest purposebuilt outdoor concert amphitheatre that hosts an array of international performers each concert season. Musical legends who have performed at the Estate include Fleetwood Mac, Elton John, Bruce Springsteen and The Rolling Stones. Hope Estate is dedicated to making sensational premium wines. We are firm believers in estate grown varietal wines. It’s the only way to ensure that the distinctive regional characters can shine through. Following this philosophy, Hope Brewhouse craft brewery opened early 2014. With a range of 12 beers available on tap, the brewery is located behind the Cellar Door where guests can relax and view the brewing process while enjoying a tasting paddle. Our Cellar Door is open 7 days and visitors can enjoy a personalised tasting experience with our friendly and knowledgeable staff in the surrounds of this historic site. Harvest Restaurant offers breathtaking views of Hope Estate’s amphitheatre, vineyards & rolling countryside alongside a sumptuous meal complimented by Hope Estate wine and craft beer. Executive chef Mert Tansu and his team provide an innovative menu which reflects Mert’s cultural background and culinary training.

We invite you to visit our facilities and enjoy all that Hope Estate has to offer.

HUNGERFORD HILL Hungerford Hill is a boutique estate in the heart of the Hunter Valley making distinguished wines that are regional and authentic. The passion behind the wine comes from an able team guided by Winemaker Adrian Lockhart, making wines with a focus on cool climate regions from around NSW that are packed with character and interest. Our stylish Cellar Door offers... • Award winning wines • Epic seated tasting experience – bookings essential • Gourmet produce • Extensive range of books and wine accessories • Home to hatted Muse Restaurant

2213 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 4993-3555 or 4993-3599 (Restaurant) www.hopeestate.com.au info@hopeestate.com.au harvest@hopeestate.com.au OPENING TIMES Harvest Restaurant Lunch 7 Days 12pm-2pm Dinner Friday & Saturday 6pm-8pm Bookings essential Cellar Door Open 7 Days 10am - 5pm Bookings for Groups larger than 15 Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day & Good Friday WHITE WINES Semillon, Semillon/ Verdelho, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Late Harvest Verdelho RED WINES Cabernet/Merlot, Rose, Shiraz, Merlot, Virgin Hills Red Blend SPARKLING Pinot Chardonnay, Shiraz PRICE RANGE Main Meals $28 - $42, Wines $20 - $70 p/bottle DINING STYLE Exquisite food in a unique setting MAP REF: B5 WINERY TOURS

2450 Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7666 www.hungerfordhill.com.au wines@hungerfordhill.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 Days Mon to Thurs & Sun 10AM to 5PM Fri & Sat 10AM to 6PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS By appointment WHITE WINES Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Verdelho, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay RED WINES Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Cabernet, Merlot, Rosè FORTIFIED WINES Liqueur Shiraz, Liqueur Muscat SPARKLING Chardonnay/ Pinot SPECIALTIES & AWARDS

BEST SPARKLING – Canberra Regional Wine Show 2014, BEST SPARKLING – Le Concours des Vins du NSW 2014, BEST CHARDONNAY – Le Concours des Vins du NSW 2014, CELLAR DOOR OF THE YEAR – Hunter Valley Legends & Wine Industry Awards 2012, WINE OF THE YEAR – Citibank New South Wales Wine Awards 2012

WINEMAKERS Adrian Lockhart PRICE RANGE From $18 - $90/bottle MAP REF: C7 PAGE 44 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

HUNTER VALLEY CHEESE COMPANY

447 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7744 www.huntervalleycheese.com.au huntervalleycheese@westnet.com.au

• 100% Australian & Regional Hand Made Cheese Factory. • Lunch all day 9AM to 5PM. • Visit our cheese tasting room and sample an array of our in-season cheese and regional produce. • Factory outlet specials and product promotions change daily. • Cheese tutorial in front of the viewing Windows daily at 11AM and 3PM.

PRODUCE SOLD Handmade speciality cheeses, local produce, preserves, muscatels, deli supplies, fresh breads, gourmet crackers, cheese platters OPENING HOURS 7 Days 9AM-5.30PM Closed Christmas Day & Good Friday GROUPS Bookings essential for groups of 10 or more AWARDS Numerous medals and awards from the Sydney Royal Show, Australian Dairy Industry Awards and Aust. Specialty Cheesemakers Association. SPECIALTIES Artisan Regional Cheesemakers The HVCC has been producing handmade preservative free cheeses on site for over 15 yrs MAP REF: C3

Blessed are the Cheesemakers.

HUNTER VALLEY CHOCOLATE COMPANY Established more than 15 years ago and with 3 stores in the area, the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company is one of the premier attractions in the Hunter. The latest outlet known as ‘’Twenty-3-Twenty’’ located on Broke Road in Pokolbin features a large viewing window where our Chocolatiers and Fudge-makers can be observed busily making our range of chocolate and fudge for our stores. ‘’Twenty-3-Twenty’’ also has a large Coffee Lounge area, alfresco seating offering wonderful views, a terrific range of Gelato and Frozen Yoghurt, delicious Churros and Chocolate Pots as well as an exciting range of gourmet products not to be missed. And so much more! A visit to one of our stores is a ‘must’ during your visit to the Hunter Valley... one bite will keep you coming back for more. • See the extensive range of wedding and corporate packaging. • Join the Chocolate Lovers VIP Club – with benefits that include, 15% discount on all purchases, monthly draws, on line ordering, gift vouchers. Enquire now! • Also available are a delightful selection of gourmet trays and baskets incorporating other fine products from the Wine Country region. • All stores open 7 days.

OPEN 7 DAYS

PH 4930-7388

www.hvchocolate.com.au admin@hvchocolate.com.au RETAIL OUTLETS Twenty-3-Twenty 2320 Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-6999 The Stonehouse @ Petersons Champagne House, 2 Broke Rd, Pokolbin. PH 4998-7301 Shop 5, HV Gardens Village Broke Rd, Pokolbin. PH 4998-7221 OPENING HOURS All stores OPEN 7 DAYS Opening hours will vary from store to store. From 9 or 9.30AM to 4PM or 5PM with 2320 Broke Rd Open until 5.30PM weekends and Public Holidays. Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Bus groups most welcome with bookings advised SPECIALTIES Hand made chocolates and fudge, Candy, Gourmet produce and Gift items A/C

MAP REF: C3/C6 WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 45

INFUZION RESTAURANT

336 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7680 www.sebelhuntervalley.com.au H8797@accor.com BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER 7 Days 7.30AM - 9PM

Infuzion Restaurant based at The Sebel Kirkton Park Hunter Valley offers up seasonal menus showcasing the natural quality of the region, offering a gastronomic experience that calls for a return trip every time you visit the Hunter Valley! The food quality and quantity combined with a superb offering of wines and excellent customer service will leave you feeling satisfied and wanting for nothing. If you are looking for daytime dining, the light filled Conservatory overlooking the rose garden and water fountain is ideal. We serve breakfast and lunch daily, with an indulgent high tea experience available between noon and 4pm, 7 days a week.

GROUPS Groups welcome with reservations Group menus may apply DINING STYLE Seasonal Australian cuisine showcasing the natural quality of the Hunter Valley region SPECIALTIES High tea Vegetarian options

MAP REF: F5

IRON GATE ESTATE

Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-6570

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

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

MAP REF: G7

PAGE 46 | WINTER â&#x20AC;˘ SPRING 2015

IVANHOE WINES

525 Marrowbone Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7325

Ivanhoe is known for great wines, friendly, knowledgeable service and spectacular views. Come in and try our range of multiple award winning wines today.

www.ivanhoewines.com.au tracy@ivanhoewines.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES 7 Days 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Good Friday and Anzac Day GROUPS Welcome. Bookings essential for buses and large groups PRICE RANGE $25 - $65/ Bottle MAP REF: F2

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

5 Halls Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7766

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

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

MAP REF: C5 Drop into the Cellar Door and you may meet Kevin Sobels who is the 2014 Hunter Valley Living Legend of Wine (as well as Archie, the Cellar Door Dog!)

DOES WINE SERVING TEMPERATURE REALLY MATTER? The temperature at which a wine is served is important as we tend to drink our white wines too cold and our reds too warm. A wine served a little too cold or a little too warm can lose an awful lot of character, particularly with respect to aroma. Serving a wine too cold also suppresses its fruit flavour and exaggerates the oak character and tannins in the wine. On the other hand, serving it too warm exaggerates the alcohol but softens the tannin – the stuff that causes red wine to have a puckering effect in the mouth.

Most household refrigerators maintain a temperature at around 4ºC, which is far too cold for most white wines. A good rule of thumb is to serve Champagne and dry white wines at a moderately chilled temperature somewhere between 8ºC and 12ºC. On the other hand the ideal serving temperature for red wines is between 14ºC to 18ºC which is at cool room temperature. Many reds, unless stored somewhere cool, will benefit from half an hour in the refrigerator before being served.

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 47

LAMBLOCH ESTATE

2342 Broke Rd Pokolbin PH 4998-6722 www.lambloch.com cellardoor@lambloch.com TASTING & WINE SALES 7 Days 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years GROUPS Bookings needed for 8 or more.

There is no other Cellar Door quite like Lambloch Estate.

WHITE WINES Semillon, Riesling & Chardonnay RED WINES Shiraz & Cabernet SPECIALTIES & AWARDS Highly rated Hunter Valley Shiraz- 96 points James Halliday in 2009/2010 PRICE RANGE From $19.50 - $95 per bottle

The picturesque views of the vineyard are set on the stunning backdrop of the Broken Back Range, and offers the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and enjoy some of the Hunters finest premium wines. A taste of The Loch Shiraz whilst visiting this modern cellar door, is a must for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life, with a 96 point rating, 3 years running from James Halliday. Planted in the 1950’s on prized volcanic loam soils, this wine is sure to impress even the toughest critics. If you’re looking for some fun and exciting wine the Flipside range will certainly please. The Flipside Shiraz and Semillon will amaze you with their unique semi-sweet fruit filled refreshing taste.

McLEISH ESTATE Australia’s Most Awarded Boutique Winery Celebrating 30th Vintage NSW Wine of the year 2014

Two Trophies - 2014 Australian Boutique Wine Show Two Trophies - 2014 Hunter Valley Wine Show Four Trophies - 2014 Sydney Royal Wine Show Trophy - Best Semillon in 2013 & 2014 Sydney International Wine Competition Trophy - Best Semillon 2012 & 2013 London International Wine Challenge James Halliday “2015 Australian Wine Companion”

The Family… In 1985 McLeish Estate was born - a true family affair with Bob & Maryanne McLeish overseeing every aspect of the venture. Having celebrated its 25th Vintage in 2010, McLeish Estate has established itself as the Hunter Valley’s most awarded premium boutique wineries. The Wines…. The high standard of estate grown fruit reflects the finest quality that you will taste in our wines. We are proud to be 100% Hunter Valley and only use hand picked grapes from McLeish Estate to produce a diverse range of premium wines. A visit to McLeish Estate Cellar Door is a MUST whilst in the Hunter Valley. Join the friendly staff, experience the atmosphere and be treated to the taste of premium current releases and aged wines. We also have our own picnic & BBQ facilities—so spend the day with us!

PAGE 48 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

MAP REF: C6

462 De Beyers Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7754 www.mcleishhunterwines.com.au mcleishwines@exemail.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES 7 Days 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day GROUPS By appointment WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho RED WINES Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz SPARKLING Culloden Sparkling Semillon, Culloden Sparkling 2005 Shiraz FORTIFIED Late Harvest Semillon SPECIALTIES & AWARDS Specialising in Semillon & Shiraz WINEMAKER Andrew Thomas PRICE RANGE From $25 to $60/ bottle MAP REF: E4

MUSE RESTAURANT

Hungerford Hill Wines, Broke Rd Pokolbin PH 4998-6777

In March 2009, Megan and Troy Rhoades-Brown opened Muse with the aim of evolving their establishment into one of Australia’s finest regional restaurants. Muse prides itself in providing superior contemporary Australian cuisine and professional and friendly service in a world class setting. Sourcing local produce when possible with a strong focus on seasonal ingredients. The menus are formed with strong depth of classic techniques and wellseasoned, balanced flavours in mind. At Muse, it’s not about dinner it’s about dining.

www.musedining.com.au muse@musedining.com.au DINING STYLE Contemporary Australian Fine Dining Restaurant OPENING HOURS LUNCH Sat & Sun 12PM - 3PM DINNER Wed to Sat 6.30PM - 10PM CLOSED Christmas Day GROUPS welcome Shortened & set menus available AWARDS SMH Good Food Guide, Two Chefs Hats! Chefs Hat - 2011, 2012, 2013 & 2014 & 2015 Restaurant & Catering Industry Awards 2010, 2011, 2012 & 2013 Contemporary Australian Restaurant formal; Hunter Region 2010 Restaurant of the Year; Regional NSW 2010, 2012; Restaurant of the Year - Hunter Region

PRICE GUIDE 2 courses $75pp, 3 courses $95pp 8 course degustation $115pp

MAP REF: C7

OISHII JAPANESE THAI RESTAURANT Oishii Japanese and Thai at Tempus Two offers a welcome unique dining alternative in the Hunter Valley. The authentic Asian restaurant offers an award winning menu including popular favorites such as Sushi, Sashimi and Teppanyaki selections as well as fragrant Thai salads and curries. Many menu items can be adapted for vegetarians and gluten sensitive guests.

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

Cnr McDonalds & Broke Rd’s Pokolbin PH 4998-7051 www.oishii.com.au info@oishii.com.au DINING STYLE Casual authentic Japanese and Thai Dining OPENING HOURS LUNCH 7 Days from 11.30AM - 3PM DINNER 7 Nights from 5.30PM-9.30PM CLOSED Christmas Day GROUPS Bookings preferred SPECIALTIES Sushi, Sashimi, Teppanyaki, Teriyaki PRICE GUIDE Starters $9 - $15 Mains $20 - $27

MAP REF: C4

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 49

PETERSON HOUSE

Cnr Broke Rd & Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin PH 4998-7881

Peterson House is unique to the Hunter Valley, as we specialise in premium sparkling wines made in the traditional method. We host a series of sparkling wine varieties, guaranteed to satisfy the discerning drinker. Our sparkling range consists of the easy drinking ‘Blush’ through to the premium blends and museum vintages enjoyed by all. Established in 1995, Peterson House is located at the ‘gateway’ to the Hunter Valley. Visit our friendly Cellar Door, and allow our staff to assist in helping you choose your favourite sparkling. With the diversity of our range, we can certainly cater for any sparkling wine occasion.

www.petersonhouse.com.au bubbles@petersonhouse.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 Days 9AM to 5PM GROUPS Groups of 8 or more people require a booking WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay RED WINES Merlot, Shiraz SPARKLING Gateway, Cuvée Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Verdelho, Semillon Pinot, Chardonnay Pinot, Blanc de Blanc, Pinot Chardonnay Meunier, Pink Blush, Illusion Rosé, Moscato, Merlot, Shiraz, Chambourcin, Shiraz Voignier, Cabernet Sauvignon, Botrytis FORTIFIED WINES Muscat, Shiraz SPECIALTIES Sparkling Wine WINEMAKER John Reid PRICE RANGE From $7 to $70/bottle

MAP REF: C6

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

www.petersonhouse.com.au cuvee@petersonhouse.com.au DINING STYLE Casual inside & al fresco dining OPENING HOURS BREAKFAST 7 Days From 8.30AM - 11AM LUNCH 7 Days From 12PM - 3PM CLOSED Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Yrs Day GROUPS Groups welcome. For groups of 12 or more we have a group menu. Please contact us for further details SPECIALTIES Bubbly breakfasts PRICE GUIDE Breakfast from $18, Main Meals from $28

MAP REF: C6

PAGE 50 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

POKOLBIN ESTATE

298 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7524 www.pokolbinestate.com.au sales@pokolbinestate.com.au

The Vineyards—Pokolbin Estate Vineyard was first planted in 1970 comprising of the Hunters more traditional wine varieties Shiraz, Semillon and Riesling, and developed to showcase true varietal character. Our sister label Belebula Vineyard was planted some time later in 1999 and not conforming to the tradition styles elected to propagate wine varieties with a more Mediterranean influence such as Tempranillo, Sangiovese and Nebbiolo.

The Hunter Olive Centre was launched in late 2003 to integrate our love for food and wine and to showcase some of the finest gourmet foods produced in the Hunter Valley. Since then the Hunter Olive Centre has grown to be one of the largest specialty food outlets in the Hunter Valley, displaying a range of over 500 locally made and National products of which up to 50 gourmet food products are on tasting at any one time.

WINE TASTING & SALES 7 DAYS 9AM to 5PM OLIVE CENTRE 7 DAYS 10AM - 5PM (Olive tasting 10AM until 4PM) GROUPS Up to 50 - $3 pp wine tasting fee redeemed on purchase WHITE WINES Semillon, Riesling, Late Harvest Riesling, Chardonnay RED WINES Shiraz Viognier, Reserve Shiraz, Tempranillo, Sangiovese, Nebbiolo Bella Rosa, Rosé DESERT WINES Riesling FORTIFIED WINES Tawny Port, Solera Riesling WINEMAKER Andrew Thomas PRICE RANGE From $20 to $60/ bottle

MAP REF: D3

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

358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-4200 www.tamburlaine.com.au info@tamburlaine.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 9AM to 5PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS By appointment WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Marsanne RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Chambourcin, Grenache SPARKLING Pinot Chardonnay FORTIFIED Liqueur Muscat, Framboise (raspberry liqueur) AWARDS James Halliday Winery Awards for individual wines can be viewed on our website WINEMAKER Mark Davidson & Ashley Horner PRICE RANGE From $20 - $40/bottle

MAP REF: D3 WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 51

THALGARA

536 De Beyers Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7717 www.thalgara.com.au info@thalgara.com.au

Thalgara is a small vineyard and winery in the foothills of Pokolbin in the Hunter Valley. Our vines are some of the oldest in the area producing hand made parcels of premium wines made with great care.

OPENING HOURS 7 Days 10AM-5PM Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day

Our wines have won some 96 medals and 15 trophies, so please visit the Cellar Door and try them or stay in our accommodation set above vineyards with spectacular views.

GROUPS By appointment

MAP REF: E3

THE CELLAR RESTAURANT

HVG Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7584

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

www.the-cellar-restaurant.com.au thecellar@bigpond.com OPENING HOURS LUNCH Mon to Sat 12PM-3PM DINNER Mon to Fri 6.30PM-9PM and Sat 6PM-9PM CLOSED Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Contact us for details MAP REF: C3

TWINE RESTAURANT 310 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7449 Twine Restaurant is located on Wynwood Estate and serves up a great selection of Modern Australian cuisine cooked with passion. Try our signature dish…. Half dozen oysters done six different ways. Boasting some of the Hunters most amazing views with inside and outside dining you are sure to be impressed.

wwwtwinerestaurant.com.au bookings@twinerestaurant.com.au DINING STYLE Casual Fine Dining OPENING HOURS LUNCH 7 Days From 12PM - 3PM DINNER Fri & Sat 6PM - 9PM and Sunday “Tastes from Around the World” 5.30PM - 7.30PM GROUPS Groups welcome with reservations SPECIALTIES Private Dining room for up to 30 guests, Oysters done six different ways PRICE GUIDE Lunch from $49 for two courses Dinner Entrée from $18 Mains from $34

MAP REF: G5

PAGE 52 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

WYNWOOD ESTATE

310 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998-7885

Wynwood Estate Recreating History

Wynwood Estate is one of the newest boutique wine brands with some of the oldest and most renowned vineyards, producing traditional, premium quality wines reminiscent of the grand vines of the 1970’s. Wy n w o o d E s t a t e o f f e r s a personalised and relaxing wine tasting experience like no other. Let our experienced staff guide you through our extensive range, from easy drinking styles through to Award winning Hunter Classics such as Shiraz, Verdelho, Chardonnay and Semillon, as well as varieties not regularly seen in the Hunter like Chambourcin, Durif and Merlot. Specialising in corporate and wine tasting you should plan your Hunter visit around a visit to Wynwood Estate. Experience the quality that comes from old vines at Wynwood Estate.

www.wynwoodestate.com.au cellar@wynwoodestate.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 DAYS 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day GROUPS Welcome. Function Centre available, Corporate Groups welcome WHITE WINES Late Harvest selections, Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc RED WINES Rosé, Shiraz, Merlot, Chambourcin, Durif and special range from Barossa SPARKLING Moscato, Shiraz, Semillon SPECIALTIES Award Winning 2013 Semillon, Cabernet Fanc, Old Vine Dry Grown Shiraz WINEMAKER Peter Lane PRICE RANGE From $18 to $70 per /bottle

MUSEUM

MAP REF: G5

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 53

SIR LUNCHALOT

Two great spots to Lunch - alot! Restaurant reviews by Sir Lunchalot - Peter Firth Welcome to all our readers once again, Already six months have passed since writing my last article. It certainly has been a mixed bag of weather both during Vintage and then the horrendous floods in April. Despite the rain that occurred during the 2015 Vintage that takes place in January and February each year, our winemakers have managed to produce some great wines, but with smaller volume. The 2014 Vintage still stands out with the whites being released recently and reds still to come. I suggest you buy as much as you can, as it is the best Vintage since 2007. Lady Lunchalot and I gave up our time once again to check out some restaurants for our readers. I am sure that you will understand how difficult that was! Here are some of our dining experiences that we would like to share with you.

TWINE RESTAURANT @ WYNWOOD ESTATE Oakey Creek Road

This restaurant has only been open for about 2 years and has already established a great name for itself in this short period of time. There are both indoor and outdoor dining areas. The latter overlooks rose gardens and vineyards with mountain views. It is a beautiful setting and an ideal venue for weddings, gatherings and parties. We went with another couple who are well known “foodies” - Steve and Sue are close friends, with whom we “lunch” often. The Twine Signature Oyster Platter is a great starter if you are an oyster lover. This is often just enough for me for a light lunch with a couple of wines. The oysters are served with six different flavours including smoked salmon, crème fraiche and salmon caviar; tomato gazpacho served in a glass with a celery stick and another (which is my favourite) tempura with Asian crab salad. These are just a few of the versions and they may vary weekly. A great way to enjoy the dishes on the menu is to share some of the starters. I recommend the grilled ocean trout with white anchovy nicoise and a delicate raspberry vinaigrette. I am not usually a big fan of crispy skin pork belly as there is often too much fat, however a friend suggested I try Twine’s version, which I did, and it was great. This was served with Asian blue swimmer crab, green tea soba noodle salad and nam jim. Very tasty! PAGE 54 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

Another way to have your lunch is to start with the Chefs Mezze Plate. The day we went there, the plate included zucchini flowers with beetroot relish, prawn and saffron veloute plus others. We followed this with a choice of one main dish each. I chose the pork cutlet with sage, confit garlic, peach, witlof and bocconcini. This was garnished with spec and artichoke salsa. An excellent combination, especially the peach. Lady Lunchalot loves her fish and she selected the chermoula wild kingfish, which was accompanied with warm cous cous, corinder yoghurt and tomato gazpacho. I managed to get a taste! Excellent! Steve chose the black angus grangebeef fillet, potato galette, roasted swiss mushrooms, house-made beetroot mustard with a red wine jus. We all agreed this was the dish of the day. It was cooked as it was ordered and just melted in your mouth. It will be my choice on our next visit. There is also a children’s menu and a large lawn for them to expend some of their energy. I am positive you will enjoy this restaurant if you are able to pay it a visit.

SIR LUNCHALOT EXP RESTAURANT @ OAKVALE WINERY Broke Road

This restaurant only opened a few weeks ago. The Executive Chef and owner is Frank Fawkner, who started his apprenticeship at Crowne Plaza and after graduating moved to London to further his career. He then returned to the vineyards to join Troy Rhoades-Brown at Muse Restaurant, which has 2 Hats. The venue has a lovely setting looking onto the vast herb and rose gardens. Frank uses only fresh and local produce in his cooking. This was very obvious when tasting his food. There are both indoor and outdoor dining areas. When you walk into EXP, you will see not only a dining area, but a bar with stools where you can observe the chefs preparing your food. We both remarked on the tables, which we found out later are hand-made from Red Mackay, which is a lovely Queensland timber. We were also informed when our food was presented that all the plates and bowls are hand-made locally as well. After we had ordered, Frank arrived with a small pestle and mortar emitting a vapour of nitrogen and containing fennel, parsley, thyme and sage. We were instructed to grind these. Home-made butter was then delivered to our table which we mixed with the herbs and spread on two brioche rolls. Light and fluffy! There were demolished in a matter of minutes. The menu is designed so that you can have 2, 3, 4 or 7 courses, the 7 course menu having the option of matching wines. We opted for the 4 course menu. The food on the menu is categorised as EARTH, SEA, LAND & SKY, CHEESE and SWEETS. We both chose one dish from each section and shared. The first dish to arrive was the house-made haloumi dressed with carrot, olive, tarragon and cider. The presentation, as with all the dishes, was amazing and the taste sensational. We are not Haloumi fans, but have been converted! Then followed the black garlic risotto with cauliflower and Pyengana cheddar. The risotto was cooked to perfection and the whole dish was excellent. At this stage we were thinking that the food couldn’t get better. We were soon proven very wrong. Our next course was the ocean trout, potato gnocchi, citrus and fennel. The sauce was something we had never tasted before. It presented like a work of art and was enjoyed immensely. This was followed by the pan fried scallops served with pumpkin, apple and

malt with a touch of brown sugar. We just looked at each other and smiled. By the way I forgot to mention when each dish is brought to the table it is all explained to you. After a small break came the spiced bacon, chickpeas, spice broth and lemon. This was my choice. Ros had ordered the braisedlamb, eggplant, yoghurt and pomegranate with an amazing jus. The lamb was voted the better dish, but both were given the thumbs up! Very little had been said during lunch until I looked at Ros and said “dessert?”, I received a positive nod. A friend had told us about the passionfruit, dark chocolate, parfait, basil seeds and toffee. I will let you make up your minds. We were blown away. I can honestly say it was the best dessert we have ever eaten! The jasmine rice pudding with pear, rhubarb and thyme was well above average, but unfortunately came second in this case. Congratulations to Frank and the team. It was dining experience and we cannot wait to return. I do hope that if you are able to dine at EXP you will enjoy the food as much as we did. We hope you enjoy our wine and food, while you are in the Vineyards.

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 55

Just two of our tidings... Grab one before they fly away!

OPEN 7 DAYS PH (02) 4930 7113 701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale NSW 2321 â&#x20AC;˘ www.gartelmann.com.au

Great wine deserves a great glass.

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

Shop 3, Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village Phone 4998 6888 Open 7 Days PAGE 56 | WINTER â&#x20AC;˘ SPRING 2015

You will meet passionate people with stories to tell. Here they grow the grapes and olives using organic and biodynamic farming principles; they make the wine and oil and can’t wait to share. Don’t miss ‘Meet the Makers’ on Saturday July 25th and the ‘Broke Village Fair’ on September 13th. Relax a bit, enjoy the scenery of this unspoilt part of the Hunter Valley – an easy short cut back to Sydney via Wollombi and Peats Ridge. Fine and fun dining, cosy accommodation – expect the unexpected!

www.brokefordwich.com.au | info@brokefordwich.com.au WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 57

MCLEISH ESTATE 2014 Semillon

GARTELMANN WINES 2014 Sarah Elizabeth Chardonnay

The 2014 McLeish Estate Semillon is of a winning pedigree, hand harvested from the estate single vineyard that has achieved the title of the World’s Best Semillon at the London International Wine Challenge, also starred as the Best Small Wine Producer and Best NSW Wine at the Sydney Royal Wine Show.

Gartelmann Wines has always had a great reputation for producing premium Hunter Chardonnay and the 2014 Sarah Elizabeth Chardonnay is one of the best to date. Jorg Gartelmann has said that “the 2014 vintage was one of the most outstanding the Hunter has seen in years”.

Tasting: Luminous quartz colour with a Tasting: The wine shows layers of vibrant aroma of lemongrass and lime primary fruit characters and is irresistible to the nose. The palate delivers highlighted by creamy notes from its a balance of quality primary fruit to crisp time on lees. sleek acidity, providing a tight structure A zesty, elegant Chardonnay with a with citrus acid finish. Our expression of palate of peaches, melons and soft oak Semillon is crafted to display vibrancy and integration. lean acidity in its youth, while cellaring into A favourite amongst Chardonnay lovers, the next 10 years will reward with the 2014 this wine is an ideal match with creamy dishes and grilled Semillon developing added complexity and honey comb salmon. texture over time. Cellaring: Drink now through to 2018.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2028.

Australia’s Most Awarded Boutique Winery Celebrating 30th Vintage

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NSW Wine of the Year 2014 Two Trophies - 2014 Australian Boutique Wine Show Two Trophies - 2014 Hunter Valley Wine Show Four Trophies - 2014 Sydney Royal Wine Show Trophy - Best Semillon in 2013 & 2014 Sydney International Wine Competition Trophy - Best Semillon 2012 & 2013 London International Wine Challenge.

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

McLEISH ESTATE PAGE 58 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

McLeish Estate Wines 462 DeBeyers Road Pokolbin PH (02) 4998 7754 www.mcleishhunterwines.com.au

TOP DROPS MISTLETOE WINES 2014 Hunter Fiano

TAMBURLAINE 2014 Reserve Semillon

Made from the Italian grape Fiano, a new variety to the Hunter Valley but boasts ancient roots. Hailing from Campania in Southern Italy, it was traditionally grown by the Romans, who called the variety “Apiano”, due to its perfumed ripe fruit attracting honey bees – “Apis”.

Tamburlaine Organic Wines is Australia’s largest producer of organic wines – with a reputation of producing exceptional award winning wines from their Hunter Valley and Orange vineyards that are true to the terroir of the region.

The Fiano variety is admirably suited to the Hunter Region, as it manages very well with high temperatures during the growing, ripening season.

The 2014 Reserve Hunter Semillon was produced using 100% organic Hunter Valley Semillon grapes. Once again, Tamburlaine’s Hunter Semillon has been awarded more than 95 points by James Halliday.

Tasting: Whilst the Mistletoe 2014 Hunter Fiano is full bodied, rich and luscious, with honeyed herbaceous notes on the nose and palate, the natural mineral acidity cuts through the rich fruit flavours and pulls the wine into lovely balance. This crisp white wine is the ideal accompaniment to fresh seafood cooked on the BBQ.

Tasting: Fresh lemongrass, lime, apple seed. Attractive fruit length and acidity from a top vintage. Enjoy some early and hold a quantity in the cellar to experience its bottle development over the next decade and beyond.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2020.

Cellaring: 10 + years.

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

JAMES HALLIDAY 5 STAR RATING 2007 - 2012

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 59

TINTILLA ESTATE 2013 Reserve Shiraz

ERNEST HILL WINES 2014 Andrew Watson Tempranillo

The Tintilla Estate vineyards were planted by the Lusby family in 1995 and all the wines are still 100% Estate made by father and son winemaking team Robert & James Lusby.

Ernest Hill was an early entrant with the Tempranillo variety in the Hunter Valley, planting a small block almost 10 years. Ross and Jason were inspired by the great tempranillo blends of the Rioja region in northern Spain and the early ripening varietyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s suitability to the Hunter climate, so decided to give it a go. The outstanding 2014 vintage has produced a 100% estate grown tempranillo that is excellent quality with a distinctive Hunter character.

Shiraz is a classic Hunter variety, reflecting the natural adaptability of the shiraz grapes to the new world and the Hunter in particular. Grown in red clay soil over limestone conglomerates, on a north east sloping hillside, the Tintilla Shiraz vines enjoys ideal growing conditions.

Tasting: A medium bodied wine displaying a ripe raspberry fruit palate, with hints of liquorice and spice. Twelve months maturation in French and American oak barrels has added some wonderfully subtle toasty characters.

Tasting: Very dense ruby red in colour with fragrant aromas of fruits of the forest, vanilla oak and sweet tar dominating the nose. It enjoys an explosive front palate, good depth of fruit on mid palate, with a round, nice dry tannin to finish.

Enjoy this awarding winning wine with white bean and chorizo casserole or roast suckling pig.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2026

Cellaring: Drink now to 2020

Open 7 days 10:30pm to 6pm 725 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin PH 6574 7093 www.tintilla.com.au PAGE 60 | WINTER â&#x20AC;˘ SPRING 2015

TOP DROPS RIDGEVIEW ESTATE 2011 “Impressions” Shiraz

LAMBLOCH ESTATE 2013 The Loch Shiraz

RidgeView’s aim in making this wine was to leave an impression.

Great wine starts with the vineyard. The Lambloch Estate vines were planted in the 1950’s in prized red volcanic soil not often seen in the Hunter. These single vineyard Shiraz vines produce stellar fruit and will only be used to make The Loch on the best vintages.

Tasting: The multiple gold medal winning 2011 ‘’Impressions’’ Shiraz was handpicked from their ‘’Effen Hill’’ vineyard and displays a bright red colour with a vibrant purple hue and aromas of raspberry and cherry. The generous palate is long and complex, beautifully balanced between layers of ripe red berry fruits and a refined tannin structure combined with subtle French oak characters.

The 2013 The Loch is the 4th vintage of this stunning wine. The 3 previous vintages have all received a rating of 96 points by James Halliday Wine Companion. Tasting: Designed with elegance and structure in mind, this wine produces rich spicy black fruits whilst retaining a soft mouth feel with a long finish and after taste.

Enjoy this complex red wine on its own, or as an excellent accompaniment to any red meat dish. Cellaring: Drinking well now - medium term cellaring of 4 6 years will allow for further complexity.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2020. The screw cap ensures you will be rewarded further after long term cellaring.

Wine. withbodyandsoul #

We continue to challenge industry conventions and lead others down a path less travelled in pursuit of wine excellence. Our approach, we term ‘contemporary organics’, is a result of our enthusiasm to re-think winemaking and experiment with modern best practice in vineyard management, incorporating practical and sustainable strategies that will continue to produce award winning wine - with body and soul. 358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin | 02 4998 4200 | www.tamburlaine.com.au

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 61

Lovedale, Rothbury & Branxton Wine & Dine Trail Lovedale, often referred to as the “Heart of the Hunter”, is located just east of Pokolbin and is renown for its interesting community, award-winning boutique wineries and cellar doors as well as quality accommodation, fine restaurants and unique galleries.

New England Hwy

Settlement in Lovedale dates prior to 1825 when there were significant land grants along Black Creek. This area was particularly suitable for vineyards and was also favoured for its proximity to the ‘Old North Road’ to Windsor. Before the 1920s there were more wineries in the area than there are today. The Love’s Winery in Lovedale Road processed grapes from other vineyards as well as their own and closed in 1927. Unfortunately by the late 1920’s most of the Lovedale vineyards ceased operations due to the impact of the Depression and a widespread outbreak of downy mildew. In the 1960’s the vineyards began to re-emerge and wine production began once again. Lovedale also hosts a number of events throughout the year, with the signature event being the famous Lovedale Long Lunch held on the third weekend in May each year.

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

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Capercaillie Wine

The Deck Café

DeBortoli Wines

Emmas Cottage Vineyard

Emmas of Lovedale

Gartelmann Wines

Lovedale Smokehouse & Café Pierre’s Wines

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Adina Vineyard - The Hunter Providore

Royal Federal Hotel

Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar

Sandalyn Estate

Tatler Wines & Tapas

THINGS TO SEE & DO Take in the scenery on horse-back If you’re up for a bit of adventure then Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures in Talga Road is the place to find it. Here you will find trails for both the beginner and the experienced rider... all with spectacular valley views. It’s advisable to book, phone 4930 7111.

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

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

Go Hot Air Ballooning Balloon Aloft run sunrise ballooning adventures daily, all year round. They are the most experienced ballooning company in Australia and provide a lovely gourmet champagne breakfast at a winery post-flight. Contact 1300 723 279.

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Adina Vineyard The Hunter Providore

Debortoli Wines

Lovedale Smokehouse & Café

Tatler Wines & Tatler Tapas

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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 • Over 25 wines for tasting including Semillon, Shiraz, Pink Moscato, Liqueur Muscat, sparkling wines and much, much more! • Local Artisan Craft Markets held every Saturday

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

MAP REF: H3 WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 63

ADINA VINEYARD

492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale PH 4930-7473

Wine, Olives & The Hunter Providore

www.adinavineyard.com.au info@adinavineyard.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM - 5PM GROUPS Welcome. Bookings necessary

Call into Adina Vineyard and enjoy wines from some of the oldest Pinot Gris and Sangiovese vines in Australia. You can also taste our other award winning wines.

WHITE WINES Chardonnay, Semillon, Pinot Gris, Verdelho RED WINES Rosé, Moscato, Shiraz, Sangiovese, Cabernets SPARKLING Traditional Methode Chardonnay, Pinot Noir FORTIFIED Dessert Semillon, Liqueur Muscat AWARDS 40+ awards in the last three years including trophies WINEMAKER Dan Binet PRICE RANGE $10 - $45 per bottle

Adina also grows and processes on site olives, olive oils, tapenade and makes some outstanding vinegars such as our very popular Caramelised Balsamic. You can also taste and buy our unique Hunter Providore range of relishes, caramelised onions and exotic sauces…the perfect enhancement to any meal. The Adina wine club is certainly another reason to visit with great discounts to our A-list members.

MAP REF: G5

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

CAPERCAILLIE WINES

4 Londons Rd, Lovedale PH 4990-2904

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

www.capercailliewine.com.au sales@capercailliewine.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 DAYS 10AM - 4.30PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day GROUPS Prefer small groups less than 20, Corporate Groups, Winery Tours by Appointment WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Gewϋrtztraminer (Dry & Dessert) RED WINES Rosé, Chambourcin, Shiraz, Cabernet Blend, Pinot Noir SPARKLING Verdelho, Chardonnay, Moscato FORTIFIED WINES Port SPECIALTIES Ghillie Shiraz, Clan Cabernet Blend, Creel Semillon AWARDS To date - 30 Trophies, 84 Gold, 183 Silver, 462 Bronze medals. Numerous Tourism Awards PRICE RANGE From $25 - $95/bottle

MAP REF: I4 PAGE 64 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

THE DECK CAFÉ

701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale PH 4930 9007

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

www.deckcafelovedale.com.au bookings@deckcafelovedale.com.au OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri 8.30AM - 3.30PM Sat - Sun 8.AM - 3.30PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day DINING STYLE Casual Café MAP REF: F5

EMMAS COTTAGE VINEYARD 438 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale PH 4998-7734 Emma’s Cottage Vineyard is a small family owned vineyard found in the picturesque Lovedale region, the heart of the Hunter Valley. History tells us life is enhanced by three things – art, food, and wine. Some said it was relationships, roses, and the vine. To both, wine was paramount. Make your own decision at Emma’s Cottage Vineyard, and discover the estate-grown wines, friendly staff, restaurant, art gallery, abundant roses and cottages overlooking the vineyard. Partake in a wine tasting guided by our staff, whilst browsing the wonderfully eclectic collections of the gallery. Our wines are produced using handpicked grapes from our 7 acres of vines, nurtured at every step from soil to cellar door. In life, there should always be time to enjoy the beautiful things, and what better way than with a glass of Emma’s Cottage wine in hand.

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

WINE TASTING & SALES Friday 1pm - 5pm Sat, Sun & Pub/Hols 10am - 5pm Twilight tastings by appointment GROUPS Small groups under 10 people no charge WHITE WINES Semillon Chardonnay, Chardonnay Verdelho RED WINES Shiraz, Rosé, Cabernet Franc Merlot SPARKLING Chardonnay/ Pinot Noir FORTIFIED WINES Liqueur Chardonnay, Liqueur Shiraz WINEMAKER David Hook PRICE RANGE From $20 /bottle

MAP REF: E3

GARTELMANN WINES 701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale PH 4930-7113 www.gartelmann.com.au sales@gartelmann.com.au

• DISCOVER Stylish, elegant wines • LEARN What makes our wines so special • ENJOY A fun, relaxed and informed approach to wine and its enjoyment • SHARE Serene, peaceful surroundings

WINE TASTING & SALES 7 DAYS Mon to Sat 10AM - 5PM Sun 10AM - 4PM Small Groups only (up to 12 people) CAFÉ OPEN 7 DAYS Mon - Fri 8.30AM - 3.30PM Sat - Sun 8AM - 3.30PM MAP REF: F5 WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 65

EMMAS OF LOVEDALE

438 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale PH 4998-7333

Drop into Lovedale’s newest café restaurant at Emma’s Cottage Vineyard. Featuring a modern European style menu….cuisine with a touch of French decadence. The seasonal menu features individual flavours, modern presentation and unpretentious pricing. From Swiss Bircher Muesli for breakfast to light seafood lunch, to a Bavarian Pan for dinner finishing with a Crepe Suzette Flambé for dessert.

www.emmasoflovedale.com.au lapiazza1@bigpond.com DINING STYLE Modern European Cuisine OPENING HOURS BREAKFAST Sat & Sun 8AM-11.30AM LUNCH Fri to Sun 12PM - 4PM DINNER Fri & Sat 6PM - 10PM Extended opening times during holidays and special events GROUPS Welcome. Booking preferred SPECIALTIES Flambés Alfresco dining available PRICE GUIDE Entrée’s $12 - $18.50 Mains $18.50 - $32

MAP REF: E3

LOVEDALE SMOKEHOUSE & CAFÉ

64 Majors Lane, Lovedale PH 4930-7832

RETAIL SALES & TASTINGS

LOVEDALE SMOKEHOUSE CAFÉ

A visit to Lovedale Smokehouse and Gourmet Pantry is a true food lover’s delight. We produce a large range of charcuterie items on site along with accompaniments and handmade local produce. Our raw produce is sourced from some of Australia’s finest graziers and fishing regions and then cured and smoked by the dedicated team of chefs from Majors Lane Restaurant using grapevine clippings from the vineyard on which we are located. The Lovedale Smokehouse & Gourmet Pantry range includes: SMOKED SEAFOOD: Smoked trout, salmon, octopus & mussels CURED & SMOKED MEATS: Air dried beef, prosciutto, chicken, ham, duck, lamb, turkey & a large range of salamis SMOKED SAUSAGES: Chorizo, chicken/honey/macadamia, jalepeno beef chipolatas, sundried tomato beef chipolatas, pepperoni, cabanossi SMOKED BACON: Rashers, short cuts, steaks, pieces & speck PATE & TERRINE: Duck pate, trout pate, chicken & pistachio terrine, rabbit terrine, veal & cashew terrine CHEESE: Smoked cheddar, smoked gouda, local & Australian brie, camembert, fetta, chevre & blue cheeses PLUS: Chutney, jam, dipping sauces, honey, olives, vinegar, olive oils, preserved fruits, dukkahs, flavoured nuts, candy along with a large range of frozen take home meals including soups, pastas, pies & curries

Enjoy a casual smokehouse produce lunch in our stunning courtyard surrounded by lush gardens, water fountains and vineyard views. Our platters and Chef’s creations showcase our range of smoked and cured produce including smoked sausages, artisan style cured meats, smoked seafood, smoked poultry, smoked cheeses, breads, hand made condiments and salads.

PAGE 66 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

Now open for lunch from 10.30am - 4pm Thursday to Monday and Dinner from 6pm Friday and Saturday.

www.majorslane.com majorslane@bigpond.com DINING STYLE Casual café style dining OPENING HOURS RETAIL SALES & TASTINGS Thursday to Monday 10AM - 5PM CAFÉ Lunch Thurs - Mon from 10.30am 4pm Function bookings welcome on other days Dinner Fri & Sat from 6pm Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Lunch packages available for groups of more than 10 people, bookings are essential SPECIALTIES Showcasing smoked local produce and charcuterie from our on site smokehouse Fully licenced BYO bottled wine welcome

MAP REF: F6

PIERRES WINES

82 Elderslie Rd, Branxton PH 0417 433 193 www.pierreswines.com.au info@pierreswines.com.au

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

TASTING & WINE SALES Mon - Fri by appointment Sat & Sun 10AM - 5PM PRICE RANGE $15 to $60/bottle WINEMAKER Peter Went

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

MAP REF: A2

ROYAL FEDERAL HOTEL

50 Maitland Rd, Branxton PH 4938-1335

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

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

SABOR IN THE HUNTER

319 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale PH 1300 958 850

SABOR IN THE HUNTER DESSERT BAR is the Valleys sweet spot, with the Hunters largest range of desserts paired with Wines & Dessert wines from the region. Indulge in our multi-award winning Portuguese Mousse, decadent cakes, Hand-made Chocolates & Portuguese tarts. A culinary experience you won’t soon forget. Our Dessert Bar offers a Gluten Free range, Cheese Plates, Barista made coffee & tea to enjoy on our alfresco patio or to takeaway.

ALSO At Lambloch Estate, 2342 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH 1300 958 939 www.saborinthehunter.com.au saborlovedale@gmail.com OPENING HOURS LOVEDALE Friday & Saturday 10AM - 9.30PM Sunday 10AM - 4.30PM POKOLBIN Thursday to Monday 10AM - 4.30PM GROUPS & TOURS Bookings essential (set menu prices) Small function room available for large bookings at Pokolbin location

SABOR HUNTER IN THE

DESSERT BAR

MAP REF: E3 WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 67

SANDALYN ESTATE Boutique Wines - Gourmet Produce Deli - Pasta & Sushi Classes. Sandalyn Wilderness Estate is situated in Lovedale in the beautiful Hunter Valley NSW. Family owned and operated and nestled in a garden setting surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, the property has extensive views to the Watagan, Brokenback and Molly Morgan Ranges. Under the banner of Hunter Valley Boutiques we provide a wide range of wine & food experiences and exceptional “locally produced” and regional food and wine. Since 2001 Sandalyn has hosted the Hunter Valley Original “hands on” Pasta making classes as seen on Getaway, Sydney Weekender and Mercurios Menu. Also available… wine, champagne, cider and beer by the glass.

Wilderness Rd, Lovedale PH 4930-7611 www.sandalyn.com.au wine@sandalyn.com.au WINE & OLIVE OIL TASTING & SALES

7 Days 9.30AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & Good Friday GROUPS Under 20 people welcome

“Let the effect of being in the centre of such tranquillity revitalise your soul ”

WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Semillon/ Verdelho, Chardonnay, Late Harvest Semillon RED WINES Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Merlot SPARKLING Fuchs Methode Champenoise, Sparkling Shiraz SPECIALTIES Pinot Noir, Fuchs Sparkling Cuvée, Fuchsia WINEMAKER Lindsay Whaling PRICE RANGE $20 - $38/ bottle

MAP REF: E4

TATLER WINES

477 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale PH 4930-9139

Tatler Wines is a destination not to be missed. Renowned for producing quality wines with timeless precision and strategically located in the heart of Lovedale, Tatler Wines is a family owned winery that continues to produce wines of outstanding quality year after year. Awarded 5 stars by James Halliday Wine Companion 2011, Tatler Wines is one of the most popular wine destinations in Hunter Valley Wine Country, Tatler Wines provide an authentic wine country experience blended with superior wines and true hospitality. Unwind in the lap of country style luxury with superb views and prized vineyards at your door step and even combine your wine tasting with a meal at the popular Tatler Tapas Café.

www.tatlerwines.com.au sales@tatlerwines.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Bookings essesntial. WHITE WINES Semillon, Semillon/ Sauvignon Blanc Blend, Chardonnay RED WINES Shiraz, Rosé SPARKLING Frizzante Semillon, Chardonnay Cuvee SPECIALTIES Tatler Over the Ditch Semillon/ Sauvignon Blanc (HV & NZ), Tatler Frizzante Semillon AWARDS 5 Stars James Halliday Wine Companion 2011 WINEMAKER Daniel Binet PRICE RANGE From $20 - $45/bottle

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PAGE 68 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

Wine & Cheese – Getting along naturally Wine and cheese are old friends with a strong affinity going back many thousands of years. Both are fermented products and require patience, care and moderate temperatures to mature naturally. Although a highly subjective topic, matching cheese and wine can be a great deal of fun and also one of the most difficult things to get right. While there are no hard and fast rules to wine and cheese matching, the following simple “rules of thumb” tend to work well:

A sparkling white wine for example goes well with a Brie or Ricotta, fruity flavours in cheese go well with fruity wines, weightier cheeses match well with weightier wines and the white and fresher the cheese, the whiter and crisper the wine choice should be. For cheese tastings, visit the Hunter Valley Cheese Co. (see page 45)

• Match white wines with soft cheese and those with stronger flavours • Match red wines with hard cheese and those with milder flavours • Fruity, sweet wines and dessert wines work well with a wide range of cheeses and therefore the safest option with cheese platters • The more pungent the cheese, the sweeter the wine should be Another handy tip is to consider the texture, colour or flavour of the cheese when choosing a wine. WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 69

REDS 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 renowned for their thoroughly unique and distinctive style and ageing ability and crafted in this region for over 180 years.

SHIRAZ - Shiraz is the Hunter’s premium red variety and the most widely planted grape variety in Australia. The typical young Hunter Valley Shiraz is a medium bodied wine showing red and dark berries, spices and a great deal of tannin. However it’s real character is seen in wines with longevity. With age, the wines become a far more complex, full bodied, and richly flavoured wine with some earthy tones. PINOT NOIR - Described as “the most romantic of wines’’ due to its gratifying perfume, Pinot Noir is light to medium in body with a broad range of textures and flavours, including a variety of complex aromas reminiscent of black or red cherry, raspberry, currant and black berry. Pinot Noir is also highly reflective of its terroir with different wine growing regions often producing very different wines. MERLOT - Merlot is renowned for its wonderfully fruity, well rounded, even fleshy character and is grown in just about every wine growing region of Australia. The summer heat of the Hunter is considered to provide the ideal growing conditions for this versatile grape variety. In recent years, Hunter Valley Merlot has experienced a surge in popularity and is often considered to be more robust and fleshy than other well regarded varieties with a rich bouquet PAGE 70 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

providing one of the most pleasurable wine experiences. CABERNET SAUVIGNON - The world’s most recognised red grape variety famous for its ability to age for decades at a time. This classic red variety of Bordeaux is second only to Shiraz in importance in Australia and can be medium to full bodied, typically leafy with ripe cassis like flavours, well structured and elegant and powerfully aromatic. The bouquet can be rich with fruity notes of black cherries and currants, herby notes of peppers and olives and spicy notes of ginger. CHAMBOURCIN - Relatively new to Australia, Chambourcin wines have a lovely, deep red colour. Most are big and fruity with a lot of raspberries, plums, prunes and even cranberries on the palate. It is not as heavy or robust as Shiraz or Cabernet Sauvignon, which can make it quite attractive to people who generally don’t like red wine. Because this variety is especially resistant to fungal diseases Chambourcin is a variety that succeeds wonderfully in the Hunter Valley climate.

SANGIOVESE - This star amongst Italian wine grape varieties, Sangiovese is now making its mark in Australia where it has become increasingly popular over the last few decades. The variety produces elegant medium-bodied wines with powerful aromas and with moderate to high natural acidity. The characteristic flavours are cherries, tomatoes, herbs, spices and tea like flavours. Australian Sangiovese wines tend to be a little more fruity, with riper flavours and higher alcohol.

Introducing the Hunter Valley's

POKOLBIN E STATE VIN EYARD

Tempranillo | Nebbiolo | Sangiovese

Get your taste for adventure today at ...Pokolbin Estate. POKOLBIN ESTATE VINEYARD 298 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin | Open 7 Days 9am -5pm PH 4998 7524 | www.pokolbinestate.com.au WINTER â&#x20AC;˘ SPRING 2015 | PAGE 71

While I do not support hunting for sport, tasting wild game purchased through a butcher or a restaurant is a treat – especially when paired with the right wines. Whatever it is on the menu, there is something about the earthy, almost primitive flavours of game meat that stirs up images of winter nights, roaring fires and long, leisurely dinners with friends. So when it comes to game meat, what wines are best to match with them? For game and most poultry dishes, the sauce and herbal flavourings can make a considerable difference to the wine you choose. While red wines tend to work well with most game dishes, some whites and dry rosé wines can work well too. We really like to partner game with a wine that is also a bit on the “wild side” – full of stark, unexpected flavours and wherever possible, made from unusual grape varieties. Often the accompaniment to a dish can also influence the choice of wine to serve. Traditional fruit based sauces or rich game stock calls for a fruit-packed wine that is not too tannic. Here Australian Shiraz fits the bill perfectly. A wonderful wine partner for most game birds is Pinot Noir with its velvety character and lots of soft fruit. Today, the key factor in matching games tends to be not how ‘gamey’ it is, but how it’s cooked and what it is served with.

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WINE & GAME PAIRING

For many duck is an interesting meat and while classified as a game meat, it is still considered by many as a slightly lighter meat. Never-the-less, it’s somewhat gamey taste “screams” out to be paired with a Pinot Noir – ideally something that is quite ‘fruity’, as it is the fruit that matches duck so well. Pinot Noir also tends to be light in the tannins, but rich in the mouth which ensures a harmonious match. Other wines considered to be good matches with duck include Cabernet Sauvignon, Chambourcin and Merlot – basically, medium and strong red wines. Wild duck such as Mallard tends to be a far richer and more flavoursome meat and therefore is better off paired with a richer more flavoursome wine such as an Australian Shiraz. Grouse is a very strong, gamey flavoured bird with meat that can cope with a full-flavoured red wine, so you can crank up the wine to partner it with – but avoid wines with too much tannin. Complex and full-bodied reds such as a new world Shiraz will do well here. When I think of pheasant, I think of the classic French casserole dish – ‘Pheasant Normande’, which is made with apple, cider and cream and is always a winner. Whites are best here, especially a dry Pinot Gris as this aromatic variety complements the sweetness of the apples and cider in the dish. Roast pheasant on the other hand very well with light, fruity red varieties such as Pinot Noir. Roast wood pigeon needs a mature, full-flavoured red wine like a Cabernet or a Shiraz – Grenache blend. But when served in a casserole and a wine has been used in the dish itself, then drink the same wine. For Wood Pigeon Casserole, which is not all that dissimilar to Coq an Vin, fruity reds such as Pinot Noirs or bigger Australian Cabernets and Shiraz work well. A popular restaurant dish is quail and depending on the stuffing or sauce, a Pinot Noir or Merlot would all work well with quail. If you prefer a white wine, choose an elegant Chardonnay with some oak. Another very popular game bird is guineafowl. The cooked flesh of guineafowl resembles

chicken in texture, but with a flavour somewhere between chicken and turkey. Its flesh has also been compared to that of pheasant, only juicer. The guineafowl is also considered to be a dark meat, thus making its carcass the foundation of rich and flavourful stocks. When roasted try a Pinot Noir or Shiraz. Also try a mature (3-8 year) barrel fermented Chardonnay. For somewhat more exotic meats such as buffalo people tend to move toward stronger, “bigger” wines with powerful flavours that can support the exotic and gamey tastes such as Zinfandel or a Cabernet Sauvignon which also goes well with most other game meats. Venison is a little different and should always be served rare. If overcooked, it can be a little tough and chewy. Venison may be eaten as steak, tournedos, roasts, sausages, dried meat (such as biltong or jerky) or as minced meat. It has a flavour reminiscent of beer, but is richer, leaner and more flavourful meat. Venison can be quite forgiving with wine matches, so Pinot Noir and Merlot are obvious choices. With venison we are looking for succulent wines that have tremendous flavour but without the big alcohol and tannins. When casseroled venison widens your choice of wine. For example, when cooked in red wine with herbs, onions and pot-vegetables, you can select more full-bodied wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz blends or Zinfandel. As with pork, when it comes to boar, everything tastes good. But Pinor Noir is a favourite – especially a smooth, savoury, medium bodied Pinot Noir. Other wines to try are Shiraz or Zinfandel. This brings us to hare – which unlike rabbit is a red meat (rabbit is a white meat). For hare, you would look to a Pinot Noir. Other wines to try are Barbera or Malbec. Rabbit – a meat that while often on the menu brings with it all kinds of emotions. Lean rabbit meat can be cooked in so many different ways, but with this fairly mild-flavoured meat, try a light red wine such as Pinot Noir. When casseroled, choose a hearty red. For the classic rabbit dish served in mustard sauce, you might like to try a white, such as a Pinot Gris or a grassy Sauvignon Blanc. Over to you…. and bon appétit. WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 73

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“Best small cellar door Lower Hunter” Gourmet Traveller Wine Magazine

“Five star winery”

2015 James Halliday Wine Companion

“Rising star”

Winemaker Matt Burton 2010 Hunter Wine Industry Awards

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

COOKING WITH WINE

Home cooking can experience some surprisingly common drawbacks when it comes to cooking with wine.

provide the same flavour to a dish as a premium wine - so save the premium wine to serve with the meal.

Other than helping you relax after a long day, wine has three main uses in the kitchen - as a marinade, a cooking liquid and as flavouring for a finished dish.

A common question, is what colour wine to use - red or white. Red wines tend to bring colour, clarity and a distinctly dry characteristic to the foods they are added to, while white wines are known to bring an acidic quality with a bit of tanginess. Use red wines for red meat dishes and for flavouring red sauces with red meat. For example, a robust red wine would be ideal for hearty stews with lots of heavy root vegetables. Try to avoid using very tannic and oaky reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, as the oak and tannins concentrate in the cooking process creating a very strong flavour which could overpower your dish. Lighter wines tend to work best in cooking as they are not as overpowering. Use white wines with recipes that include fish, shellfish, seafood, poultry, pork or veal and if you are making a cream sauce or seafood soup. It also helps to bear in mind that “what goes together grows together.’’ In other words, whenever possible use regional wines when cooking regional cuisine.

Cooking with wine brings additional flavour to the food being prepared and is used to intensify and enhance the flavour and aroma of food. Think of flavouring a recipe with wine in the same way you would by adding a spice or herb. The flavours tend to mellow the longer you cook the wine in the dish. For best results, wine should not be added to a dish just before serving as the wine needs to simmer with the food, or sauce, to combine with the flavours. When the wine is heated, the alcohol and the sulfates found in wine are cooked off, leaving only an aroma and light taste. For a long time, cooks believed that undrinkable wine or wine they would normally dispose of should be added to the saucepan. The reality is you can cook with all types of wine, regardless of the variety or price range - however there is a single most important rule when it comes to cooking with wine: Only cook with wines that you would drink. If you do not like the taste of a wine, you can be assured that you will not like the dish you choose to use it in. Also, refrain from using “cooking wines’’ as they tend to be cheap, salty and often include additional spices or herbs that do little to enhance your recipe. That is not to say you need to use expensive wines. A simple, good quality wine, that you enjoy, will PAGE 76 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

But always remember - cooking with wine should be fun. If you are just starting out, don’t over complicate it, keep a young bold red such as a Merlot in readiness for that favourite spaghetti bolognaise or a dash of Chardonnay for your creamy chicken marsala recipe. Also, always be prepared to experiment by using different wines in your cooking - that extra splash or two of wine is sure to make your favourite recipe a winner at the dinner table!

The TheHunter’s Hunter’sPremier PremierWine Wine Destination Destination

Fine Dining. Craft Brewhouse. Pizza Functions Café. Fine Dining. Craft Brewhouse. Weddings. And the And theodd oddconcert concertfor for 20,000. 20,000. Visit hopeestate.com.au to find out on. Visit hopeestate.com.au to find out what’s what’s on.

Mount View, Cessnock & Nulkaba Trail Mount View is situated at the southern border of Pokolbin and nestled amongst the breathtaking surrounds of the Brokenback Range in the Hunter Valley. Mount View with its winding roads and panoramic views offers some of the most outstanding scenery available in the Hunter Valley. The history of the area dates back to the mid 1800’s when early pioneers recognised the quality of the land offered by the area.

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Mount View Rd

The nearby town of Cessnock was developed as a private village on the road that is now known as ‘’The Convict Trail’’ - the original Sydney to Hunter Valley road hand-built by 3,000 convicts. Cessnock became a major mining centre at the turn of the century; however, wine and tourism have since become the major local industries. Cessnock is considered the ‘’gateway’’ to the wine region and has a number of fine restaurants, guesthouses and galleries with visitors able to visit the local Hunter Beer Co. brewery in Nulkaba.

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Mount View provides a number of wine and dine options with respected restaurants and a handful of impressive and highly acclaimed boutique wineries that seem to appear out of nowhere and all providing a relaxed and idyllic wine tasting experience and superbly welcoming hospitality. At the end of Wollombi road is the historic town of Wollombi which was settled from 1838 as a service centre for the local farming community as well as travellers. Today Wollombi displays a fine architectural heritage, a selection of cafes, eateries and comfortable guesthouses and national parks with great bush walking trails, lookouts and ancient Aboriginal rock carvings.

Wollombi Rd

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

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Al-Oi Thai Restaurant

Briar Ridge

Kelman Vineyard

Bistro Molines

Pedens Hotel Petersons Wines

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Saddler’s Creek Wines

Savannah Estate

The Brickworks Brasserie

THINGS TO SEE & DO Visit Hunter Valley Zoo Feed the animals... Hand feed kangaroos, wallabies, farmyard animals and some bird species as often as you like! Daily shows allow you to pat a wombat, cuddle up to a koala, touch a reptile and watch the monkeys being fed. Free gas barbecue facilities and undercover seating, so bring the family for a picnic lunch in a fun relaxed atmosphere. PAGE 78 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

MAP

Brewery Tours Visit the Hunter Beer Company for a brewery tour - it’s the oldest Microbrewery in the Hunter and produces several signature beers such as the Hunter Kolsch and Hunter Witbier. Tours depart daily: Mon - Fri 4pm, and Sat - Sun 12PM and 4PM. Phone 4991 7922 to book.

TO POKOLBIN WINE & FOOD TRAILS

The Brickworks Brasserie & Hunter Beer Co.

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TO MAP 2 POKOLBIN WINE & FOOD TRAIL 2 (SOUTH)

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Saddler’s Creek Wines

Kelman Vineyard MOU

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Savannah Estate

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Winery/Cellar Door Restaurant/ Café Providore/ Gourmet Produce

WOLLOMBI RD

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

19 Vincent St, Cessnock PH 4990-8666 OPENING HOURS LUNCH 7 Days 11AM - 3PM DINNER 7 Days 5PM - 10PM Take Away and Delivery available GROUPS Welcome. Bookings essential

MAP REF: F8 WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 79

BISTRO MOLINES

749 Mount View Rd, Mount View PH 4990-9553 www.bistromolines.com.au dine@bistromolines.com.au

Bistro Molines is set among the peaceful surrounds of Tallavera Grove, overlooking a valley of terraced vineyards and grazing cattle. Robert & Sally Molines take pleasure in offering French Provincial cuisine and charming hospitality. Awarded a Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide Chefs Hat 2010-2015, Bistro Molines combines the finest food with European influenced serenity.

DINING STYLE French Provençal style fine dining Unique and individually customised wedding receptions Alfresco dining available OPENING HOURS LUNCH Thurs to Mon 12PM - 3PM DINNER Fri & Sat 7PM - 9PM Open midweek for group bookings by special arrangement SPECIALTIES & AWARDS Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide Chefs Hat 2010 - 2015 PRICE GUIDE Main meals from $38 to $42

MAP REF: H2

BRIAR RIDGE

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

Nestled amongst the rolling hills of Mount View, Briar Ridge is an iconic vineyard producing classic Hunter Valley wines. Gwyn Olsen works her magic as Chief Winemaker and is passionate about producing estate grown wines for the Briar Ridge range. Enjoy a tasting while taking in the tranquil gardens and mountain views, or why not relax a little longer over an antipasto or cheese plate, and be ensconced in the beauty that is Briar Ridge. Looking for a perfect function or wedding venue? We can create the perfect tailored package just for you. GWYN OLSEN, GOURMET TRAVELLER WINE’S, YOUNG WINEMAKER OF THE YEAR!

PAGE 80 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Gewϋrztraminer, Fume Blanc RED WINES Rosé, Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo SPARKLING Pinot Chardonnay FORTIFIED WINES Liqueur Muscat, Late Harvest Gewϋrztraminer AWARDS James Halliday 5 star rating. Gourmet Traveller WINE Young Winemaker of the Year WINEMAKER Gwyn Olsen CONSULTANT WINEMAKER Karl Stockhausen PRICE RANGE From $15 - $60/bottle MAP REF: G3

KELMAN VINEYARD

2 Oakey Creek Rd, Mount View PH 4991-5456 www.kelmanvineyard.com.au admin@kelmanvineyard.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES 7 Days 10AM - 4PM Closed Christmas Day CLASSIC WINES Chardonnay (Sparkling & still), Semillon, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Tempranillo, Shiraz

Life beautifully balanced... Nestled at the Gateway to Mt. View, Kelman is a community-owned vineyard producing both classic, premium wines and a sweet wine range. Visit the Pokolbin Cellar door and sample the wines (including our mulled wine in the winter months!) You can also sample a range of delicious local olives, olive oils and condiments.

SWEET WINES Moscato, Seduction (Chardonnay), Indulgence (Shiraz) All of Kelman Wines (with the exception of the Sauvignon Blanc) are made from grapes harvested from our own vineyard.

MAP REF: E6

PEDENS HOTEL Peden’s Hotel is Cessnock’s favourite family friendly Hotel. Catering for up to 150 people, we are always fully staffed and ready to handle walk in groups of any size. Serving more meals than any other hotel in Cessnock, our food is always fresh and fabulous with a great atmosphere that adds to your dining experience. We are fortunate enough to have the friendliest team in town, which again will only add to your time with us. With all our off street parking and separate entry, we are an ideal stop off on your way home to the Central Coast, Sydney or beyond. Come and experience some country like hospitality in a lovely clean and modern hotel.

196 Vincent St, Cessnock PH 4990-1014 www.pedenshotel.com.au admin@pedenshotel.com.au OPENING HOURS 7 DAYS 10am-12pm Mon-Sat, 11am-10pm Sun LUNCH from 11.30am DINNER from 5.30pm CLOSED Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Welcome PRICE RANGE $16 - $28 MAP REF: G8

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 81

PETERSONS WINES

552 Mount View Rd, Mount View PH 4990-1704 www.petersonswines.com.au sales@petersonswines.com.au

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

TASTING & WINE SALES 7 Days Mon-Sat 9AM - 5PM; Sun 10AM-5PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day GROUPS Welcomed. Please book in advance. WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Fume Blanc, Muscat, Verdelho, Riesling RED WINES Merlot, Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Chambourcin, Durif, Petit Verdot SPARKLING Sparkling Chardonnay, Moscato, Sparkling Red FORTIFIED WINES Cellar Port, Muscat SPECIALTIES Back Block Shiraz, Old Block Shiraz, Strikes Shiraz, Botrytis Semillon, Moscato WINEMAKER Gary Reed PRICE RANGE From $19.50 -$100 p/b MAP REF: G2

SADDLERS CREEK

WINE SALES & TASTING 7 Days Mon-Fri 9AM - 5PM Sat & Sun 10AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Bookings essential. Max size 12 by appointment Large groups by discretion

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PAGE 82 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

saddlerscreek.com winery@saddlerscreek.com

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Established in 1990, Saddler’s Creek is a boutique wine company situated at Mount View in the Hunter Valley, that specialises in producing premium and super premium wines from the grapes from some of Australia’s notable wine regions. Saddler’s wines are distinctly different than the vast majority of wine product available to wine lovers. Our wines are made to a relatively simple principle, that is, to produce intense lush flavour and yet have the ability to be enjoyed with the finest of foods. We believe that fine wine has to enhance the flavour of any accompanying food. After all, wine is the only alcohol made for the sole purpose of being enjoyed with food. The only real wine is good ‘food wine’. We are lucky enough to have a VIP customer group called Equus that has a substantial membership of very loyal and committed customers proud to be a member and have the chance to enjoy wines of this calibre.

15 Marrowbone Rd, Pokolbin PH 4991-1770

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WHITE WINES Chardonnay, Semillon, Riesling RED WINES Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz/Cabernet, Shiraz/Viognier DESSERT WINES Botrytis Supreme, Muscat Exclusif AWARDS Best Australian Sweet White Table Wine – Rutherglen Wine Show, Trophy – Hunter Valley Boutique Wine Awards, Trophy – Adelaide Wine Show, Trophy – Australian Boutique Wine, Runner up – Winestate Wine of the year Awards WINEMAKER Brett Woodward PRICE RANGE From $16 to $65/bottle MAP REF: E5

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

402 Mount View Rd, Mount View PH 4990-6326

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

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

MAP REF: E5

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

Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba PH 4991-7922 www.pottershbr.com.au info@pottershbr.com.au DINING STYLE Casual dining Daily specials board

RESTAURANT OPENING HOURS 7 Days 7.30AM - 9PM CLOSED Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Bookings essential. Can pre-order PRICE GUIDE Main meals from $15 to $29.50

The Brickworks Brasserie’s menu is well known for its wonderful use of our very own on-site brewery, The Hunter Beer Co, beer as an essential ingredient of most dishes. Our courtesy bus will also pick you up and make sure you get home safely. Seating 11 people it makes it easy to organise a group lunch or dinner event at Potters Hotel Brewery Resort.

MAP REF: B5

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 83

Goldﬁsh Hunter Valley Cocktail Lounge and Casual Share Dining is an exciting venue located on one of the Hunter’s most iconic wineries “Tempus Two”. The venue blends the glamour and sophistication of a Sydney cocktail lounge, infuses it with the Hunter’s natural beauty and delivers an indulgence of the senses you will ﬁnd hard to resist.

Open 7 days a week | 12pm till late ● Kitchen open every day for lunch and dinner with a limited after hours menu in between, except Saturdays when we have our full menu available midday to 9:30pm ● Late night pizzas to 11pm on Friday nights and midnight on Saturday nights. ● Courtesy bus every Saturday evening from 7pm which runs on a 15km radius of the venue.

Providing indoor and outdoor areas, relaxed dining and a welcoming yet professional atmosphere, it is the perfect destination for an exciting get together, party, function or event. Specializing in international cocktails, refined rustic Mediterranean cuisine and gourmet pizza offering, the Goldfish staff are an internationally recognised bar & kitchen team focused on the delivery of a relaxed and professional service offering.

Tempus Two Complex, Cnr Broke & McDonald’s Rds, Pokolbin | PH 4998-7688 | infohv@thegoldﬁsh.com.au

“my thoughts behind ‘éléments’ is to reflect natures elements that produce the unique character of the region... the terroir.

the perfect wine country dining experience.

i want my menu to highlight the best of local produce as well as a few home grown items from my farm... as a chef, and through ‘éléments’, i feel a responsibility as a facilitator to allow the produce to shine for the diner. bon appetit!” - executive chef jean marc-pollet

Corner Broke & McDonalds Rd’s, Pokolbin | PH 4998-2000 for reservations PAGE 84 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

VILLA DU PAYS RESTAURANT

DRY – AGED EXPORT QUALITY BLACK ANGUS BEEF Leogate Estate oﬀers exceptional dining in the Hunter vineyards!

LEOGATE ESTATE

Succulent Black Angus beefs cuts are dry-aged on-premise for you to enjoy with our world-renowned Hunter Shiraz. Indulge your senses! Open for dinner Thurs – Mon, and lunch Fri – Mon.

AT LEOGATE ESTATE – WORLD RENOWNED SHIRAZ – 1693 BROKE RD, POKOLBIN Join our friendly cellar-door staﬀ today for a tasting of fantastic Hunter Wines from the famous Brokenback vineyard! Home of ‘The Basin’ Shiraz Winner of the World’s Best New Wine at the International Wine Challenge 2014! WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 85 FOR BOOKINGS – 4998 7499 – SALES@LEOGATE.COM.AU – WWW.LEOGATE.COM.AU

PAGE 86 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

RESTAURANT REVIEW

THE Cellar RESTAURANT The Cellar Restaurant is in a word ‘’unique’’ and without a doubt one of the finest restaurants in the Hunter.

(I wanted more) as was the crispy chorizo, but for me the winner was the deliciously rich, soft and creamy texture of the almond gazpacho sauce.

Owners Andy and Janet Wright have made The Cellar Restaurant a summer and winter favourite amongst both locals and visitors to the Hunter. In winter there is no better place to be with the centrally located fire keeping diners warm over the cooler months and in summer you get to enjoy the longer warmer evenings dining alfresco.

For our main dishes we selected the free range Berkshire pork chop and the pan fried barramundi with sides that included roast kipflers with garlic and rosemary and green beans with almonds.

The welcome is warm and friendly as we are shown to our table and being a cold evening we were pleased to be seated close to the huge stone fireplace in the middle of the room, which gives the place an unpretentious and yet almost medieval feel, which is further enhanced by the lush foliage growing around the perimeter of the restaurants interior. After a quick study of the extensive menu you soon come to realise why The Cellar is considered one of the Hunters most outstanding restaurants. We ordered wine from the wine list which is largely made up of local Hunter Valley wines, as well as those from other regions around Australia and a few overseas comparisons thrown in for good measure. For entrée we decided upon the chargrilled quail which arrived superbly presented and accompanied by local figs, labna balls, watercress and radish with a vincotto vinaigrette. This delightfully complex dish was beautifully prepared and delicious with the velvety and slightly sour taste of the labna providing a nice contrast to the sweet and sour flavours of the vincotto. The addition of sumac added an almost tangy, lemony flavour to the quail.

The Berkshire pork chop arrived perfectly cooked – succulent and juicy and the sweetness of the meat was further enhanced by the spicy fig and apple relish. The crackling delicately perched on top of the chop was some of the best I have ever tasted – wonderfully golden and perfectly crisp. The pan fried barramundi was served exactly how it should be, with the flesh firm and moist with a delicate flavour and served with café de Paris butter – a complex herb, spiced butter sauce. To me this was a perfect example of inspirational cooking with great flavour combinations. Dessert at The Cellar Restaurant is always hard to refuse and on this occasion we went with the rhubarb and apple taco with custard crumple parfait and the unusual but absolutely delicious mulled wine ice-cream with poached pear and Lancashire parkin – a traditional strongly-spiced sticky gingerbread-cum-cake flavoured with treacle and dark brown sugar. A wonderful end to a perfect meal.

a Salt&Peppa review

The second entrée ordered was the chargrilled octopus. A superb choice consisting of chargrilled octopus accompanied with chorizo and sliced pear salad sitting on an almond gazpacho sauce – creating a bold and flavour fuelled dish. The octopus had a lovely char on the outside but was melt-in-the-mouth tender and delicious WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 87

Broke Fordwich Wine & Food Trail Known as the “tranquil side of the Hunter Valley” and situated an easy 15 minute drive from Pokolbin and just 25 minutes from Singleton, the Broke Fordwich Wine Region is considered to be a separate viticultural sub-region of the Hunter Valley and accounts for approximately 11% of the vineyard area planted in the Hunter Valley. The warm climate and fertile soils produce distinctive wines such as Semillon, Shiraz, Chardonnay and Verdelho as well as Italian varieties such as Sangiovese and Barbera. The area was first settled as early as 1824 and despite being one of the oldest wine growing areas in Australia, it is only in the last 30 years that Broke Fordwich has started to become an important player in the Australian wine making industry. With the Brokenback Range and the iconic Yellow Rock escarpment in the background, the Broke Fordwich region consists of two villages - Broke and Bulga each with their own identity as well as the two smaller communities of Fordwich and Milbrodale. 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’ and many direct descendants still live in the area today. These culturally rich people left many significant cave paintings in the area which are still accessible today.

NAME Ascella Pure Wines

Brokes Promise

Krinklewood

Mount Broke Wines

Pickled & Pitted

Stomp! Wines

D KE R BR O

BROKE

Brokes Promise BROKE RD

Winery/Cellar Door Restaurant/ Café Providore/ Gourmet Produce

1 PAGE 88 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

OL W

ADA

Krinklewood

M BI

MS P

EAK

DALE MILBRO

MAP LEGEND

Pitted & Pickled Visit Pitted & Pickled to browse their superb range of olives, oils, cheeses, preserves & other specialty items all prepared locally with seasonal produce. You can also buy a selection of locally made olive oil soaps.

Stomp! Wines

Mount Broke Wines

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

FORDWICH

THINGS TO SEE & DO

THOMPSONS RD

Ascella Organic Wine

MAP

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

MILBRODALE

PAGE

TO MAP 6 WOLLOMBI WINE & FOOD TRAIL

Pickled & Pitted

ASCELLA ORGANIC WINE

203 Thompsons Rd, Milbrodale PH 6574-5275 or 0431 357 105 www.ascellawine.com sales@ascellawine.com

Organic Wines

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

Located in the pristine Broke Fordwich region, Geoff and Barb welcome you to their picturesque Country Cellar Door. We are committed to maintaining a balanced, chemical free and sustainable environment. Become a Friend of ASCELLA, have access to fantastic prices and enjoy great tasting, award winning wines. Join us in making a difference, for you, for your family and for the future of our planet!

OPENING HOURS Country Cellar Door open 7 Days GROUPS Small groups welcome by appointment. Book in for a Complimentary exclusive tasting of Ascella Wines, Organic Cheese & Olives WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Pure White RED WINES Merlot, Shiraz, Vintage Red, Rosé SPARKLING Pure Vescence SPECIALTIES Reserve Semillon 2009, Reserve Semillon 2014, Chardonnay 2011, Reserve Chardonnay 2014 WINEMAKER Liz Jackson PRICE RANGE From $15 - $50/bottle

MAP REF: A1

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

712 Wollombi Rd, Broke PH 6579-1322 www.krinklewood.com info@krinklewood.com OPENING HOURS Fri, Sat & Sun 10AM - 5PM GROUPS Small groups welcome by prior appointment only

WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Wild White, Spider Run Reserve White, Basket Press Chardonnay RED WINES Spider Run Reserve Red, Shiraz, Basket Press Shiraz, Wild Red, Francesca Rosé SPARKLING Blanc de Blanc FORTIFIED WINES Lucia Dessert Wine WINEMAKERS Rod & Peter Windrim PRICE RANGE From $18 - $50/bottle

MAP REF: B2 WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 89

BROKES PROMISE ESTATE

www.brokespromise.com.au graeme@drre.com.au

Broke’s Promise Estate is a privately owned boutique vineyard, olive grove, Farm Stay, cellar door and art gallery with panoramic views of the Brokenback Range and Yellow Rock. We specialise in handcrafting wines from some of the Hunters most renowned varieties including Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Shiraz, Merlot, and for something a little different a Northern Italian red, Barbera and French Chambourcin. Our gallery includes paintings by our local aboriginal people the Wanaruah. Come Visit!

MOUNT BROKE WINES

TASTING & WINE, OLIVE & OLIVE OIL SALES 7 Days 10.30AM - 5.30PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Welcome. Prefer 24 hours notice for groups larger than 10 people MAP REF: B2

130 Adams Peak Rd, Broke PH 6579-1314 www.mtbrokewines.com.au philmcnamara@outlook.com.au

Mount Broke Wines has defined Shiraz quality in the Broke Fordwich Region across the last decade. The vineyard also produces fine examples of Barbera, Chardonnay, Semillon and Verdelho. Stunning views from the Cellar door frame the setting for Blackboard Lunch commencing in July. Weddings and functions by appointment.

725 Milbrodale Rd, Broke PH 6579-1165

TASTING & WINE SALES Sat, Sun & Public Holidays 10AM - 5PM Blackboard Lunch 11AM - 2PM

CELLAR DOOR · CAFÉ · BAR MAP REF: B1

PICKLED & PITTED - RIVER FLATS ESTATE • Olive Oil • Locally Grown Olives • Gourmet Condiments Caremelised Vinegars, Chutneys and Relishes • BARE naturesKin Olive Oil Soap and Natural Body Products

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

PAGE 90 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

19 Singleton Street, Broke PH 6579-1063 or 0409 791 063 www.riverflatsestate.com marian@riverflatsestate.com.au OPENING HOURS Friday - Sunday 10am - 5pm Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Welcome

MAP REF: B3

1273 Milbrodale Rd, Broke PH 0409 774 280 stompwine.com.au meredith@stompwine.com.au OPENING HOURS Friday - Sun 10.30pm - 4.30pm Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Welcome

MAP REF: B2

It 's not about dinner...

...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about dining. TWO CHEFS HATS - 2015 ONE CHEFS HAT 2011, 2012, 2013 & 2014 Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide

RESTAURANT & CATERING RESTAURANT & CATERING INDUSTRY AWARDS INDUSTRY AWARDS Best Contemporary Australian Restaurant of the Year - Regional NSW 2010 Restaurant Hunter Region Restaurant of the Year Hunter Region 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 & 2014 2010 & 2012

Hungerford Hill Wines, 2450 Broke Road Pokolbin 2320 | PH 02 4998 6777 E muse@musedining.com.au OPENING HOURS Dinner Wed - Sat 6.30pm - 10pm | Lunch Sat & Sun 12pm - 3pm

COVER RECIPE

Cosy up with this comforting recipe from Harrigans Irish Pub and Accommodation that the whole family will enjoy. INGREDIENTS – SERVES 4 • 100ml chilli, garlic and parmesan oil (see following recipe) • 100g sliced red onion • 200g good quality chorizo sausage, sliced • 1 long red chilli, thinly sliced • 28 green king prawns, peeled and deveined • 100ml white wine • 600g cooked fettuccine or pasta of your choice • ½ cup freshly torn basil leaves • ½ cup roughly cut flat leaf parsley • 1 cup baby spinach • 120g heirloom tomatoes, quartered • Sea-salt and cracked pepper • Fresh lemon juice for seasoning • Shaved parmesan cheese • Lemon wedges 1. Pre-cook the pasta and reserve the water for blanching. 2. Using a large saucepan, heat the chilli, garlic and parmesan oil until it is hot. 3. Add onions, chorizo and fresh chilli, then sauté until the chorizo are golden and onions are caramelised. PAGE 92 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

4. Toss in the prawns while ensuring the pan remains hot at all times, sauté for 1 - 2 minutes. 5. Add wine to deglaze the pan and finish off the prawns. 6. Blanch pre-cooked pasta in reserved boiling water, drain really well and place in a large bowl. 7. Add prawns, chorizo and pans juices to the pasta. 8. Toss through the basil, parsley, baby spinach and heirloom tomatoes. 9. Season with lemon juice, sea-salt and cracked pepper. 10. Top with shaved parmesan, a lemon wedge and serve. CHILLI, GARLIC AND PARMESAN OIL Ingredients • 5 dried long chillies • 8 cloves of garlic peeled and scored • 150g parmesan wax rind • 300ml olive oil • 200ml grape seed oil Heat both oils together to 80 degrees then take off the heat and add the chillies and garlic. Once the oil has cooled to room temperature add the parmesan rind. Allow this to infuse for a few hours or preferably a few days to intensify the flavour of the oil. Add more chillies if more heat is preferred and store the oil in a sterilised airtight bottle.

ENJOY ENJOY AA PINT PINT AND AND AA MEAL MEAL AT AT HARRIGAN’S HARRIGAN’S

RELAX WITH LIVE MUSIC EVERY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY AFTERNOON, RELAX WITHONLIVE MUSIC EVERY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY AFTERNOON, AND PARTY WITH GREAT BANDS EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY NIGHT! AND PARTY ON WITH GREAT BANDS EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY NIGHT! Relax and enjoy a hearty meal at Harrigan’s Relax and hearty meal at Harrigan’s where you enjoy will beaimmersed in the authentic where you will in the authentic Irish décor andbe beimmersed surrounded by beautiful Irish décor and be surrounded by beautiful gardens, vineyards and mountains. gardens, vineyards and mountains.

Ph: (02) Ph: (02)

4998 4998 4300 4300

Have a pint of Guinness, a glass of Hunter Have ainpint Guinness, a glass of luck Hunter Shiraz theofBistro or even “try the of Shiraz in in thethe Bistro or even the Irish” Sports bar. “try the luck of the Irish” in the Sports bar.

Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW www.harrigans.com.au Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW www.harrigans.com.au V I N E Y A R D

Life beautifully balanced. More than a Vineyard – A Way of Life • A Unique Residential Vineyard • Cellar Door • Award Winning Classic Wines • A Range of Sweet Wines • Range of Gourmet Produce 2 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin Phone 4991 5456 Open 7 days 10am - 4pm www.kelmanvineyard.com.au

Come and try our delicious Hot Mulled Wine today. WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 93

MAKING THEIR MARK...

MARK WOODS Chief Winemaker at Leogate Estate With the impressive slew of recent accolades awarded to Leogate Estate Wines, Chief Winemaker Mark Woods has every right to boast, instead he is a quietly spoken, modest and down-to-earth man with a great passion for creating wines that showcase the unique terroir from which they are sourced. Mark recalls where his passion for wine began at 20 years of age whilst living with his father in Sydney. “Dad had a very expansive underground wine cellar containing several iconic Australian wines spanning many vintages. Each night before dinner we would go down to the cellar and select a bottle of wine we thought most suited to the meal.” This ritual continued till Mark moved to find his own apartment. “Whilst Dad very much enjoyed my company, the underground cellar was experiencing great pressure to continue supply!” It was Mark’s low-key nature and excellent credentials for wine-making that attracted him to the owners of Leogate Estate Wines, Bill and Vicki Widin. Together, Leogate Estate Wines strives to make wines that express both the vineyard terroir as well as Mark’s contemporary wine-making style PAGE 94 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

while also respecting and embracing regional characteristics. With a strong 2014 Hunter Valley vintage, it is anticipated that Leogate Estate Wines under the stewardship of Mark Woods will continue to perform strongly in both local and national competitions. Leogate Estate Wines and Mark Woods see their participation in these national competitions as essential to highlight the continued strength of Hunter Valley wines and reinforce the credibility of the Hunter Valley as a premium Australian wine growing region. Outside of the competitions, Mark continues to engage with members and visitors to Leogate Estate Wines on a daily basis. Working with new wine varieties and styles is an important part of delivering wine experiences that are meaningful and relevant to today’s wine drinkers. If his previous work at Leogate Estate Wines is any indication, there will be a great deal of excitement surrounding the next release from Mark Woods and Leogate Estate Wines in the near future.

MAKING THEIR MARK...

MARK DAVIDSON CEO & Chief Winemaker Tamburlaine Organic Wines Mark Davidson’s career started off working with Community Support Programs and then as an HR trainer and psychologist for the Australian Government. With a love of growing things and a keen interest in wine, Mark also studied viticulture and wine science at Riverina College in NSW (now Charles Sturt University). Mark met his wife Lou whilst studying at the University of Newcastle and they married in 1978 and now have two daughters Samantha and Eliza both now married. In 1985 when the wine estate known as “Tamburlaine’’ in Pokolbin came on the market, Mark and a small group of investors purchased the Hunter Valley based winery off its founder Dr Lance Allen. Mark and his team then set about expanding Tamburlaine Organic Wines into one of largest certified organic wineries in the Southern Hemisphere. Today, the 50 year-old winery is Australia’s largest producer of labelled organic wine, based on 100 per cent organic and biodynamic farming, turning out well over 80,000 cases a year. A long-standing favourite with customers and wine critics, the winery has been awarded a red five-star rating in James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion.

Situated in Pokolbin, the vineyard includes vines that have been under cultivation since the mid 1960’s and currently total 50 hectares. In 1995, Tamburlaine expanded its production and quality base through the acquisition of 90 hectares of prime vineyard land in the emerging cool climate Orange wine region. Up to 70% of the annual production now comes from Orange. The success of the company is as much about Mark’s sheer determination and commitment to a vision of achieving excellence and the people behind the scenes, as it is the quality and value of the wine in the bottle. The company has an enviable record in the Australian domestic market with one of the largest wine clubs in Australia and the awards gained that include trophies and gold medals for red and white wines alike. All vineyards in the Hunter Valley and Orange are certified with the Biological Farmers Federation. Today, Tamburlaine is Australia’s largest producer of organic wines and the first certified carbon neutral winery in Australia. Tamburlaine enjoys a thriving domestic business with export markets growing rapidly based on its reputation as a quality wine producer with an organic approach to winemaking and strong focus on sustainable farming elements.

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 95

Tastings | Dining | Shopping | Events Calais is home to one of the largest boutique wine lists in the Valley, as well as the renowned Verandah Restaurant and the vintage modern homewares shop; Come What May. Wine taste, dine, shop or just relax in the beautiful grounds. Come and enjoy the hospitality for which we are famous!

151 Palmers Lane Pokolbin NSW 2320 | PH 4998 7654 www.calaiswines.com.au | info@calaisestate.com.au PAGE 96 | WINTER â&#x20AC;˘ SPRING 2015

Explore boutique vineyards along the

Wollombi WineTrail

We welcome you to our cellar doors: Stonehurst Wines • Wollombi Wines Noyce Brothers • Wollombi Village Vineyard Undercliﬀ Winery • Millbrook Estate Enjoy a taste of country in historic Wollombi - cafes, shops, and Tavern’s Dr Jurds Jungle Juice! Visit the Great Northern Trading Post at Laguna!

www.wollombivalleywinetrail.com.au • WINTER

SPRING 2015 | PAGE 97

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

NAME Great Northern Trading Post

The Wollombi Valley vineyards have been producing fine wines in this region since the 1850’s. The Wollombi Wine Trail is made up of six boutique wineries offering visitors a unique wine tasting experience and passes through beautiful countryside at the southern gateway to Hunter Valley Wine Country following part of the Great North Road which was built by convicts in the early 19th century.

Stonehurst Cedar Creek

Wollombi Village Vineyard

100

Wollombi Wines

100

THINGS TO SEE & DO Sculpture in the Vineyards Sculpture in the Vineyards along the Wollombi Valley Wine Trail in the Hunter Valley, features large-scale outdoor and site-specific works. Annually from November to December. Wollombi Markets Visit historic Wollombi on the holiday Monday of each long weekend (Easter, June and October) and on Australia Day for this great market of over 100 stalls, including local produce and crafts, plants, clothes, tools, bric-a-brac and much more.

TO MOUNT VIEW & NULKABA TRAIL

TO BROKE FORDWICH TRAIL

TO CESSNOCK TRAIL

MOU

NT VIE

W RD

D CR NES PAY RD ING OSS

Stonehurst Wines

Wollombi Wines

WOLLOMBI RD

H NORT

Wollombi Tavern Route 33 Café Great Northern Trading Post

TO SYDNEY

NARONE CREEK RD

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

BI RD

LOM

WOL

GREAT

REE

NG YA

CEDAR CREEK RD

Wollombi Village Vineyard Noyce Brothers Wines

PAGE 98 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

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

The word Wollombi means “meeting of the waters” in the local Aboriginal dialect. Many traces of the original inhabitants survive throughout the valley and include rock engravings, sharpening grooves, hand stencils, tribal markings in caves and outcrops as well as evidence of camping sites along the Brook and its tributary creeks.

MAP

Noyce Brothers Wollombi Tavern/ Route 33 Café

Aboriginal occupation of the area dates back at least 12,000 years when the area served as a significant meeting point on the north-south trade and travel route for coastal Aboriginal peoples.

PAGE

GREAT NORTHERN TRADING POST

www.gntp.com.au

The gateway to the Hunter Valley on the historic Tourist Drive 33, the GNTP is open for breakfast, coffee, lunch and dinner every day of the week, it features an old fashioned trading post to buy basic food supplies and fuel, as well as a boutique wine bar containing a fine selection of local and imported wines.

OPEN Mon to Thurs 7am - 8ish, Fri & Sat 7am - 12am, Sun 8am - 9pm Closed Christmas Day SPECIALITIES Best Bloody Mary in the Valley! Plus Pulled Pork Sliders #6 Aust Traveller 100 Amazing Places GROUPS Welcome

The famous pulled pork sliders, gourmet pies, charcuterie and cheese sharing boards and wraps are available anytime of the week!

MAP REF: H2

NOYCE BROTHERS

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

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

ROUTE 33 CAFÉ

3718 Great North Rd, Laguna PH 4998-8244

TASTING & WINE SALES Mon, Tues & Wed 10.30AM - 3PM; Thurs - Sun 10.30AM - 5PM Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Welcome

MAP REF: G3

2994 Great North Road, Wollombi PH 4998-3261 www.wollombitavern.com.au wollombitavern@bigpond.com

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.

RESTAURANT Mon to Thurs 10am 7.45pm, Fri 10am - 9pm, Sat 9.30am - 9pm, Sun 9am - 7.45pm DINING Large 400g steaks, hamburgers, nightime bar menu available. No BYO GROUPS Welcome, bookings preferred

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

MAP REF: G2

STONEHURST CEDAR CREEK 1840 Wollombi Rd, Cedar Creek PH 4998-1576 The Heslop family is committed to producing premium quality wines through sustainable viticulture, based on organic principles. The results of this labour of love are award and trophy winning wines! We welcome you to our sandstone Cellar Door, open 7 days.

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

MAP REF: E6 WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 99

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

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

Stonehurst Cedar Creek Cellar Door

Wollombi Village PAGE 100 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

2971 Payne’s Crossing Rd, Wollombi PH 0419 997 434 wollombivillagevineyard.com.au wollombivino@hotkey.net.au TASTING & WINE SALES Sat 9AM - 6PM; Sun 9AM-4PM Closed Christmas Day GROUPS Welcome

MAP REF: F2

Wollombi Rd, Wollombi PH 4998-3427 www.wollombiwines.com.au orders@wollombiwines.com.au TASTING & WINE SALES 7 Days 10am - 5pm Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Welcome No larger than 50 seats buses MAP REF: G5

WOLLOMBI

ALONG THE Take a day or two to explore this beautiful part of Wine Country and discover for yourself why visitors return to Wollombi Valley time and time again. For many, it is the unique character of Wollombi Valley that is so special - vineyards in scenic surrounds producing award winning wines, adjacent National Parks, rich Aboriginal heritage, and abundant native wildlife and the historic village of Wollombi at its centre. Only the Wollombi Valley has all of this! The name “Wollombi” is derived from the Aboriginal meaning “meeting place” or “meeting of the waters”, with rock carvings and cave paintings found in the area standing as a visual reminder of the spiritual ties Aborigines held with the region. From the pioneering days of the 1800’s Wollombi was the gateway to the Hunter Valley. Today some two hundred years later, Wollombi with all its history and charm, still remains the gateway to wine country, with travelers choosing to take the more scenic route along what was the old Convict Trail or Great North Road. Wollombi is part of early colonial history and today the most notable features of this small isolated village are its pastoral setting and collection of early buildings that include St John’s Anglican Church which was built in 1846, the Wollombi Telegraph Office which opened in 1860, the former Police station and Courthouse (now Endeavour Museum) built c1866, the stone School building c1881 (the original school opened in 1852) and the timber General Store which is well over a century old. The mere existence of these buildings indicates the administrative importance of Wollombi prior to 1860. The courthouse and cell block are open daily as a fascinating museum. Wollombi also has a wonderful collection of delightful shops and eateries and is a wonderful place to use as a base to explore the other parts of the Hunter Valley and wine areas.

Great meals and refreshments are available daily at the Great Northern Trading Post at Laguna, as well as Panino’s Café in Grays Inn, Café Wollombi opposite and also at the renown Wollombi Tavern in Wollombi Village. Here every taste and budget is catered for. Of course we are still in Wine Country and the 6 boutique cellar doors have loads of character and each boast their own speciality. Millbrook, Noyce Brothers, Stonehurst, Undercliff and Wollombi Wines are open daily and Wollombi Village is open on weekends for tasting with the owners always ready to welcome visitors and share their winemaking secrets. The cellar doors are relatively close to each other - so their wines can be easily experienced over a day or two. This allows plenty of time for bushwalking, sightseeing, a game of tennis (visitors welcome) and a cold beverage at Wollombi General Store, Wollombi Tavern or the Great Northern Trading Post at Laguna (the oldest liquor licence in Australia). The not to be missed Sculpture in the Vineyards is a great annual sculpture exhibition open daily throughout November at Stonehurst, Undercliff, Wollombi Wines and Wollombi Village Vineyard. With a glass of fine wine in your hand, a stroll through the sculptures is truly uplifting. With all this, you may need to stay at one of the various accommodations and the choice is extensive, from quality bed and breakfast to self-contained cottages and spa suite hilltop pavilions. Whether it’s a weekend of wine tasting, a romantic weekend getaway, a concert in Pokolbin, a wedding or to take in one of the many local cultural events, the historic Wollombi Valley provides a different view of rural life in the lower Hunter and a more tranquil place to stay on your Hunter Valley visit. This corner of the Hunter Valley truly has it all!

WINTER • SPRING 2015 | PAGE 101

Wine & Food Experiences With over 140 wineries in the Hunter Valley you may prefer to avoid driving and choose instead to get on board one of the fun, friendly wine tours with itineraries that include a selection of cellar doors, gourmet food providers and in many cases lunch at one of the Valley’s many restaurants or cafes.

You can even attend wine school with short classes on wine production techniques and wine appreciation. Whatever you choose you will be well looked after by operators, instructors or drivers passionate about the region and keen to share its secrets.

ALL AROUND THE VINES

PRIVATE WINE TOURS

Come and enjoy a tour all around the smaller boutique wineries with us sampling the wines, cheeses, chocolates and Olives our valley has to offer. We also do restaurant transfers to all the fabulous restaurants. All you need to bring along is anticipation for a good time all around the vines with us..

HALLS PRIVATE TRANSFERS Personalised wine tours for 1-4 people Visit unique boutique wineries, bring your list with you! Wine, beer, cheese and chocolate tastings available Newcastle and Sydney Airport Transfers available

www.allaroundthevines.com.au enquiries@allaroundthevines.com.au • MOB 0459 145 065

BEST TOUR

pwjkhall@hotmail.com • CALL PETER 0431 810 548

www.besttour.com.au • besttour@bigpond.com TO BOOK CALL BRUCE ON 0437 149 612 Hop aboard the Best Tour Bus and join a small group tour, showing you the beautiful Hunter Valley Wine country and tasting some of the best wines that the Hunter has to offer. Best Tour is family owned and operated, and has been giving the best escorted small group tours of the Hunter Valley vineyards since 2001. Your driver guide is friendly, flexible and knowledgeable. Your tour bus is modern, air conditioned and has adjustable seats. Join our tour and take home with you lasting memories of a great day out!

Hunter Valley Guided Winery Tours • Personalised, professional tour in an air conditioned mini bus, seven days per week.

• Pick up from your local accommodation or from Sydney, Central Coast, Maitland and Singleton areas and be escorted throughout the day.

• Witness the beauty and tranquillity of Hunter Wine Country on route to our chosen boutique cellar doors, as well as vodka, schnapps, cheese, olive and chocolate tastings.

• Wedding, restaurant, concert and airport transfers available.

book@cheersbus.com • Call John on 0408 987 057 PAGE 102 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

HUNTER VALLEY SAFARIS

PH 0458 875 502

Come on a safari with us! We can arrange an array of packages to suit your needs - Winery Tours, Horse Riding, Ballooning, Helicopter Rides, Golf Packages, Wine Tastings, Whisky Tastings, Beer Tastings, Cheese and Chocolate Tastings and Lunch or Dinner at Blaxlands Inn. We also offer Airport Transfers, Concert Transfers, Wedding Guest Transfers, plus free pickup and drop off for dinner at Blaxlands Inn. Our safari vehicles seat up to 12 people. Bookings Essential.

Operating 7 Days from 10AM 2198 Broke Rd, Pokolbin www.blaxlandsinn.com.au info@blaxlandsinn.com.au (Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day)

THE JOYS OF CHOCOLATE AND WINE Some would say that Chocolate goes with anything, however it is known to be a good match to wine and pairing the right chocolate with the right wine can be a match made in heaven â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but there are a few pairing tips to keep in mind. When experimenting, the best approach to take is to pair lighter chocolates with lighter wines; darker chocolates with full-bodied wines. With White Chocolate, the mellow and buttery flavours make it an ideal match for a Sherry, a Moscato or an Orange Muscat. The Sherry and Moscato will pick up the creaminess of the chocolate and the Orange Muscat will pick up any fruit tones.

Dark, bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolates need a wine that presents a slightly robust flavour. Cabernets are an excellent match to dark chocolates. A Cabernet Sauvignon will more than satisfy any chocolate pairing expectations, as will a Pinot Noir, Shiraz or a Merlot. Finally, a Tawny or Vintage Port coupled with a dark chocolate dessert or truffle will provide the perfect end to any meal.

When it comes to Milk Chocolate and wine pairings, Pinot Noir or a lighter-bodied Merlot will complement a bar of milk chocolate, a creamy chocolate mousse or chocolate cheesecake. Rieslings, Sauvignon Blanc Muscats or even dessert wines tend to be good combinations with mild milk chocolates. Also consider a sparkling wine for pairing with milk chocolate dipped strawberries.

WINTER â&#x20AC;˘ SPRING 2015 | PAGE 103

Free crystal glasses could be yours! Join Wine Selectors’ Hunter Valley Series at the Visitor Information Centre on Wine Country Drive and you’ll receive 6 FREE European crystal glasses worth $47.94!

You can receive regular deliveries throughout the year, chosen by a Tasting Panel of Hunter Valley experts and covered by a 100% Money Back Guarantee.

Since 1975, Wine Selectors has been delivering quality Hunter wines. We draw on the talents of 60 regional producers including icons such as Tyrrell’s, Drayton’s, McWilliam’s, Brokenwood and Tulloch, as well as the Valley’s leading boutique wineries – with a minimum saving of 30% off cellar door prices.

You’ll also receive a host of benefits including up to four copies of Selector magazine per year, comprehensive tasting notes, wine region discounts and a beautiful annual calendar. To find out more, visit the Wine Selectors counter in the Visitor Information Centre.

6 FREE stal European cr y 7.94! $4 glasses worth e th when you join Series Hunter Valley HUNTER VALLEY SERIES

HR3.01-15

Welcome to your latest Hunter Valley red selection! This historic winemaking region can present some challenges for winemakers with rain often wreaking havoc during vintage. However, the 2014 vintage proved especially favourable with ideal ripening conditions with plenty of sunshine, but not too much extreme heat. There are some long-term Hunter heroes, including Bruce Tyrrell, who

have gone as far as to declare it the best of not only this century, but last as well. You can experience what all the hype is about in this selection with ten of the 12 wines featured from this incredible year. From tight, youthful Shiraz to rich, vibrant Cabernet, you’ll be thanking the weather gods for shining on the Hunter Valley and making life easier for its hardworking winemakers!

Qld

IndulgeWA in a Panel’s Pick Using Australian Wine Show judging criteria, all wines are given a score out of 20. To be eligible for the Panel’s Pick range, a wine must have an average score of 17.5 or above. Of the wines that reach this score, only 24 wines a year are chosen. By choosing wines from this collection, you’re securing the drops deemed some of Australia’s best!

2015

NT SA QLD

Hunter Valley

wineselectors.com.au/panelspick

calendar

NSW SA

NSW

VIC

Broke

Wollombi Pokolbin

Muswellbrook Lovedale

Newcastle

Vic

TAS

HUNTER VALLEY SERIES Red Selection

Tas

Refer a friend!

And receive a Wine Selectors $50 gift card

If you are happy with your regular deliveries, why not recommend a friend? As a thank you, every time you refer a friend you’ll be rewarded with a Wine Selectors $50 gift card. It doesn’t matter if your friends choose to have premium wines delivered regularly or if they’d rather select their own cases, it’s all fine with us. Once your friends have made a purchase of 12 or more wines we’ll send you your gift card. For each friend you refer, you can receive another gift card! So start referring today!

Nicole Gow, Tasting Panel Member

refer.wineselectors.com.au

wineselectors.com.au 100% Money Back Guarantee Every wine you receive is chosen by our Tasting Panel, but you’re the ultimate judge. If there’s a wine you don’t enjoy, give us a call and we’ll refund you. Customer Service hours: 8.30am – 6pm, Monday – Friday (EST).

Best enjoyed in moderation, with food and friends. Wines supplied by Australian Wine Selectors (AWS) ABN 64 056 402 772. Liquor Licence no. 117140. Wines may be available for straight case orders (subject to availability). Where stocks are unavailable AWS may elect to make an alternative offer available. Information correct at time of printing. PRO4447

Come and visit us at the Visitor Information Centre, 455 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin

wineselectors.com.au PAGE 104 | WINTER • SPRING 2015

1300 303 307 Keep in touch with us on: Named after and crafted by Tasting Panel co-Chairman and Hunter Valley Living Legend, my Pick of the Pack is the Briar Ridge Vineyard Signature Release Karl Stockhausen Shiraz 2013. This wonderful expression of one of Karl’s favourite reds never fails to deliver, year after year.

HUNTER VALLEY SERIES

One of the best things about Peppers Convent and our Estate are the number of dining options available to you, ranging from vast gourmet dinners to private and intimate meal settings. Restaurant Eighty Eight, presents a luxurious setting and a nurturing menu. With an emphasis on integrity of ingredient and nourishment, all items on this menu are ethically sourced. They are organically grown on the property, gathered or acquired locally or sustainably farmed. The meal that you eat is the culmination of every step in this important process, imbued with goodness. Breakfast | High Tea | Lunch - 7 days, Dinner - Thursday to Sunday Circa 1876 is the Hunter Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most iconic restaurant. A truly once in a life-time experience, Circa 1876 offers a gastronomic fine dining experience and features a menu with seasonal produce grown in the expansive 3 acre, organic kitchen garden on site, as well as sourcing the finest local produce. Lunch and Dinner - 7 days

Circa 1876 circa1876.com | PH 02 4998 4998 Peppers Convent and Restaurant Eighty Eight peppersconvent.com PH 02 4998 4999 Halls Road, Pokolbin NSW

Circa 1876 | Peppers Convent | Restaurant Eighty Eight | Roscrea Homestead

ROSCREA HOMESTEAD