IN THIS ISSUE OF WINE & DINE… A Food & Wine Lover’s Paradise! It is no coincidence that some of the best restaurants can be found in some of the finest wine growing regions where wine is just as prevalent in the cooking process as it is in the Welcome to the Hunter Valley and this third glass, and the Hunter is fortunate to have such issue of Wine & Dine in the Hunter. a diversity of restaurants spread throughout the Not only is the Hunter Valley Australia's region and with some of most awarded chefs in best known and oldest wine region, but it is the country. a major wine producing area, gaining We have been preparing for your visit for more international recognition for its winemakers than 175 years! So while you are here, we and the quality and distinct regional invite you to relax, indulge a little and enjoy a characteristics of its premium wines - in wealth of diverse activities that may include particular Hunter Valley Semillon and booking a wine tour, playing golf, cycling, bush Shiraz. Hunter Valley wine is equal to the walking and visiting some of the finest cellar best in the world and the wine sector is doors, restaurants, cafes and specialty food A WCP MEDIA recognised for producing a full range of providers for which the Hunter Valley is so PUBLICATION wine styles and varietals - one to match renowned - confirmation that the Hunter Valley is not just the home of great Australian wine, EDITORS/PUBLISHERS every meal. Quentin von Essen Today, the Hunter Valley is as much about but one of the finest, most authentic culinary Di von Essen food as it is about wine. The region has a destinations in Australia. strong food and wine culture that is CONTRIBUTORS reflected in its superlative wines, world Peter Firth class restaurants, abundant fresh regional Neil McGuigan Salt&Peppa Reviews produce and gourmet food products. Quentin & Di von Essen—Publishers ''Nothing more excellent or valuable than wine was ever granted by the gods to man''. Plato
FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION CALL 61 2 4930 9072 info@wineanddineguides.com.au
PO Box 241 Cessnock NSW 2325 Australia © Copyright 2012 WCP MEDIA All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or whole or use without permission is strictly prohibited. For information regarding permissions please contact us at the above address. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, WCP MEDIA cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur. All opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily that of the publishers. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising due to inappropriate content.
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SPECIAL FEATURES
Quick Index to Cellar Doors Quick Index to Restaurants Quick Index to Providores All About ...Lower Hunter Valley Wine Country 9 Trail Maps ...Index to Trail Maps 10 Pokolbin 1 Wine & Food Trail,
7
The History Behind… Australia’s oldest wine producing region.
8
George Francisco… Seven hats ...and counting!
28
26 Lets Hear it for the Girls!
Wineries, Restaurants & Providores Pokolbin 2 Wine & Food Trail, Wineries, Restaurants & Providores
24 Matt Burton The Gundog star continues to rise...
52 Lovedale, Rothbury & Branxton 46 Wine & Food Trail, Wineries, Restaurants & Providores 50 66 Mount View, Cessnock & Nulkaba Wine & Food Trail, Wineries, 64 Restaurants & Providores 76 78 Broke Fordwich Wine & Food Trail, 85 Wineries, Restaurants & Providores 82 Wollombi Wine & Food Trail, 88 86
Wineries, Restaurants & Providores Wine & Dine Services Wine & Food Tours and Experiences
Shaking things up at Bimbadgen Two Great Spots. To lunch...alot! Top Drops Our picks of the season Dining at...Amanda's on the Edge Dining at...Restaurant Sanctuary Dining at...Oishii Japanese Thai The Last Word...by Neil McGuigan
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OPTIMISED FOR iPHONE, iPAD & ANDROID DEVICES
REGULAR ITEMS
QUICK INDEX TO CELLAR DOORS (A-O) Adina Vineyard
54
492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale
7 Days
Allandale Winery
54
132 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale
7 Days
Arrowfield Estate
12
Cnr Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin
7 Days
Bimbadgen Estate
13
790 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
Blueberry Hill Vineyard
14
999 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
Briar Ridge Vineyard
69
Mount View Rd, Mount View
7 Days
Capercaillie Wine Co.
55
4 Londons Rd, Lovedale
7 Days
Constable Estate
15
205 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
DeBortoli Wines
54
532 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin
7 Days
Denmar Estate
15
479 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin
Fri to Mon
Emmas Cottage Vineyard
55
438 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale
Fri to Sun
Ernest Hill Wines
32
307 Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba
7 Days
Gartelmann Wines
56
701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale
7 Days
Gemelli Estate
16
168 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin
Fri to Mon
Gundog Estate
33
101 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
Hermitage Rd Cellars
17
Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
Hungerford Hill Wines
34
2450 Broke Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
Iron Gate Estate
35
Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
James Estate
17
1210 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
Kelman Vineyard
70
2 Oakey Creek Rd, Mount View
7 Days
Kevin Sobels Wines
36
5 Halls Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard
79
712 Wollombi Rd, Broke
Sat & Sun
Lindeman’s Wine
37
119 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
Macquariedale Organic Wines
18
170 Sweetwater Rd, Rothbury
7 Days
McGuigan Wines
36
447 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
38
462 DeBeyers Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
38
2198 Broke Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
Millbrook Estate
83
1617 Mt. View Rd, Millfield
7 Days
Misty Glen Wines
18
293 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin
Fri to Mon
Mount Broke Wines
79
130 Adams Peak Rd, Broke
Fri to Sun
Mount View Estate
70
502 Mount View Rd, Mount View
7 Days
Nightingale Wines
80
1239 Milbrodale Rd, Broke
7 Days
Noyce Brothers Wines
83
2884 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi
7 Days
Oakvale Wines
19
1596 Broke Rd,Pokolbin
7 Days
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McLeish Estate Meerea Park
QUICK INDEX TO CELLAR DOORS (P-Z ) 40
Cnr Broke Rd & Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin 7 Days
Petersons Wines
71
552 Mount View Rd, Mount View
7 Days
Pierre’s Wines
58
82 Elderslie Rd, Branxton
Mon to Fri by appointment. Sat & Sun
Pokolbin Estate
41
298 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
Ridgeview Wines
19
273 Sweetwater Rd, Pokolbin
Wed to Sun
Saddler’s Creek Wines
72
15 Marrowbone Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
Sandalyn Estate Wines
59
Wilderness Rd, Lovedale
7 Days
Savannah Estate
72
402 Mount View Rd, Mount View
7 Days
St Clements Estate
60
136 Talga Rd, Rothbury
7 Days
Stomp! Wines
80
1273 Milbrodale Rd, Broke
Sat & Sun & By Appointment
Stonehurst Cedar Creek
84
1840 Wollombi Rd, Cedar Creek
7 Days
Tallavera Grove
74
749 Mount View Rd, Mount View
Thurs to Mon
Tallowwood Mount View
74
147 Mount Bright Rd, Mount View
Sat & Sun & By Appointment
Tamburlaine Organic Wines
42
358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
Tatlers Wines
60
477 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale
7 Days
Tempus Two
43
Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rds, Pokolbin
7 Days
Tintilla Estate
20
725 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
Travertine Wines
21
110 Old North Rd, Pokolbin
Fri to Sun
Tower Estate
44
Cnr Halls & Broke Rds, Pokolbin
Thurs-Mon
Undercliff Winery & Gallery
84
152 Yango Creek Rd, Wollombi
7 Days
Veladare Wines
21
463 Deasys Rd, Pokolbin
Fri-Sun
Vinden Estate
22
17 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin
Wed to Sun
Wandin Hunter Valley
61
12 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale
7 Days
Waverley Estate
23
207 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin
7 Days
Wollombi Village Vineyard
84
2971 Payne’s Crossing Rd, Wollombi
Sat & Sun
Wollombi Wines
84
Wollombi Rd, Wollombi
7 Days
Wombat Crossing Vineyard
23
530 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin
Weekends only
Wyndham Estate
62
700 Dalwood Rd, Dalwood
7 Days
Wynwood Estate
45
310 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
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Peterson House
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QUICK INDEX TO RESTAURANTS (A-R) Al-Oi Thai Restaurant
68
19 Vincent St, Cessnock
Lunch & Dinner 7 Days
Australia Hotel
68
136 Wollombi Rd, Cessnock
Lunch & Dinner 7 Days
Amandas on the Edge
12
1039 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin
Lunch Fri to Mon; Dinner 7 Nights
And the Winner is Oscars
30
Shop 15 Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days Broke Rd, Pokolbin
Australian Regional Food Store
30
426 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin
Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days
Bistro Vinden
22
17 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin
Lunch Fri to Sun
Black Creek Farm
14
803 Old North Rd, Rothbury
Lunch Fri-Mon; Dinner Sat & Sun
Bistro Molines
68
749 Mount View Rd, Mount View
Lunch Thurs to Mon; Dinner Fri & Sat
B.L.U.E Thai
69
137 Mount View Rd, Cessnock
Lunch Wed to Sat; Dinner Tues to Sun
Blaxlands Inn
31
2198 Broke Rd, Pokolbin
Lunch & Dinner Wed to Sun
Bodega Restaurant & Bar
32
At Cypress Lakes Resort, 15 Thompsons Rd, Pokolbin
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 7 Days
Briar Grillade
69
Mount View Rd, Mount View
Wed to Sun
Café 1843 at Lindeman’s
37
119 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
Café DenMar
15
479 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin
Fri to Mon
Café Pokolbin Hill
15
Leisure Inn Pokolbin Hill, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rds, Pokolbin
Emersons at Pokolbin
16
1014 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin
Breakfast 7 Days; Lunch Wed to Sun; Dinner Mon to Sat Lunch Thurs to Mon; Dinner Thurs to Sat
ESCA Bimbadgen
13
790 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin
Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Wed to Sat
Harrigan’s Irish Pub
33
Broke Rd, Pokolbin
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 7 Days
Harry’s at Tatler
56
477 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale
Lunch Thurs-Tues; Dinner Fri & Sat
Hunter Valley Steakhouse
35
Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rd’s, Pokolbin
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 7 Days
Infuzion Restaurant
32
Sebel Kirkton Park 336 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 7 Days
Leaves and Fishes
57
737 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale
Lunch Wed to Sun; Dinner Fri & Sat
Lillino’s Bar Trattoria
60
136 Talga Rd, Rothbury
Lunch Thurs to Sun; Dinner Thurs to Tue
Magpie Café
56
701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale
Breakfast & Lunch Fri to Mon
Mojos on Wilderness
58
84 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale
Dinner 6 Nights (closed Tues)
Muse Kitchen
18
At Keith Tulloch Wines, Lot 17 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin
Lunch Wed-Sun
Muse Café & Restaurant
39
At Hungerford Hill, 1 Broke Rd, Pokolbin Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Wed to Sat
Nightingales Restaurant
80
1239 Milbrodale Rd, Broke
Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant
39
Cnr McDonalds & Broke Rd’s , Pokolbin Lunch & Dinner 7 Days
Restaurant Cuvee
40
Restaurant Sanctuary
41
Ridgeview Restaurant
19
Cnr Broke Rd & Wine Country Drv, Pokolbin Peppers Guesthouse, Ekerts Rd, Pokolbin 273 Sweetwater Rd, Pokolbin
Lunch Wed to Sun; Dinner Mon to Sat
Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 7 Days Breakfast Fri to Sun; Lunch & Dinner Thurs to Sun
QUICK INDEX TO RESTAURANTS (R-Z ) Roberts Restaurant
42
Halls Rd, Pokolbin
Lunch Fri to Sun; Dinner 7 Nights
Royal Federal Hotel
58
50 Maitland Rd, Branxton
Lunch & Dinner 7 Days
221 Restaurant & Bar at The Royal Oak Hotel
71
221 Vincent Street, Cessnock
Lunch & Dinner 7 Days
Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar
59
319 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale
Fri to Mon
San Martino Restaurant
20
At Hunter Resort, Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 7 Days
SSS BBQ Barns
73
4 Wollombi Rd, Cessnock
The Olive Mill Café
54
492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale
The Beltree
19
266 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin
Lunch Fri to Sun; Dinner Fri & Sat
The Brickworks Brasserie
74
At Potters, Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 7 Days
43
Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin
Lunch & Dinner Mon to Sat
The Cellar Restaurant
Dinner 7 Nights; Lunch groups by appointment Breakfast Fri to Sun; Lunch Fri to Sun
The Olive Tree Restaurant
59
Wyndham Estate, Dalwood Rd, Branxton
Breakfast Sundays; Lunch Sat & Sun
The Verandah Restaurant
22
At Calais Estate, Palmers Lane, Pokolbin
Lunch & Dinner Thurs to Sun
Twine Restaurant
44
310 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin
Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Fri-Sun
Vittorios Italian Café Restaurant
45
Pokolbin Village, 2188 Broke Rd, Pokolbin
Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Tues to Sat
Wandin Wine Bar & Diner
61
12 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale
Lunch 7 Days; Dinner Fri & Sat
QUICK INDEX TO PROVIDORES Adina Vineyard
54
492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale
7 Days
Australian Regional Food Store & Café
30
426 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
14
1 Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin
Tues to Sun
Gartelmann Wines
56
701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale
7 Days
Gundog Estate & Hunter Pantry
33
101 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
Hunter Olive Centre
41
298 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
Hunter Valley Cheese Company
34
At McGuigans Complex, 447 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
Hunter Valley Chocolate Company
57
Shop 5, HVG Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin
7 Days
Hunter Valley Chocolate Company
57
Peterson House, Cnr Broke Rd & Wine Country Drv, Pokolbin
7 Days
Hunter Valley Chocolate Company
57
Factory & Showroom 820 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale
7 Days
Mojos The Deli
58
84 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale
7 Days
Nulkaba Hatchery
70
78 Fleming St, Nulkaba
Mon to Sat
Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar
59
319 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale
Fri to Mon
Sandalyn Estate
59
Wilderness Rd, Lovedale
7 Days
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Binnorie Dairy
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 Onsite Restaurant/Café Functions/Events/Weddings
On Site Parking
Family Friendly
Picnic /BBQ Area
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Accommodation
Vineyard Views
Cellar Door On Site
On Site Gallery
Order On-Line
A/C
Air Conditioning
Free WiFi
On Site Golf Course
Beer On Tap
Picnic Hampers
Scenic Views
Gourmet Produce
Cooking Classes
Baby Change Facilities
The history behind Australia’s oldest wine producing region The first major planting in the Hunter Valley occurred in the early 1830's when James Busby - an amateur viticulturist, returned to New South Wales after travelling throughout Europe and South Africa, collecting cuttings from over 500 vineyards. Some of these cuttings were sent to the newly established Royal Botanical Gardens in Sydney and the rest planted at the family estate of Kirkton (between the towns of Branxton and Singleton) - establishing what was probably the first vineyard in the region. It was these cuttings which established the Hunter Valley’s claims to viticulture fame. From these beginnings, the Hunter Valley flourished, with several families establishing vineyards in the area including the first vineyards by George Wyndham of Wyndham Estate. By the end of the decade, plantings had expanded from 200 acres to approximately 500 acres and by 1876 land planted with vine had exceeded 1800 acres.
wines, fortified ports and sherry signaled a period of fast decline for the Hunter Valley. After World War I, many returning soldiers were given land grants in the Hunter Valley, but the Great Depression and devastating hail storms between 1929– 30 caused many of these new land owners to abandon their vineyards. Some of the land was bought up by the larger and more established land owners at the time who would later become driving forces behind the Hunter Valley's wine industry. The 1950s and 1960s saw consumer taste shift toward drier styles of wine. As a result the 1960's saw a dramatic increase in the number of plantings of vine including red wine varietals and the reintroduction of Cabernet Sauvignon to the Hunter Valley.
As Hunter red wines were gaining acclaim, Hunter whites were also being noticed. In the 1960s, a Sydney wine merchant named Leo Buring began marketing the By the 1860s, plantings of vineyards began to move from first commercially successful Hunter Valley Semillon the fertile alluvial plains along the Hunter River towards which was initially known as ''Hunter Riesling''. the foothills of the Brokenback range near Pokolbin and Rothbury (Lovedale) where many of the most well The year 1971, saw the first commercial bottling of established and highly regarded vineyards of the Hunter Chardonnay - an event that sparked the beginning of can be found today. the Australian Chardonnay craze. Sydney was a lucrative market for the Hunter Valley largely due to the regulations in place at the time that placed prohibitive duties on wines from other areas such as Victoria and South Australia. By the turn of the 20th century, this virtual monopoly over the Sydney market changed significantly with a new constitution banning such interstate trade barriers. The Sydney market was opened to out of state wine producers. This coupled with the changing public tastes from dry wines to sweeter
By 1976, plantings in the Hunter Valley had grown to exceed 10,000 acres and despite a small reduction during the recession of the 1980s, the Australian wine boom of the 1990s pushed plantings even further to over 11,000 acres. Today the Hunter Valley remains Australia's oldest wine producing region and one of Australia's most recognisable regions with over 140 wineries in the Hunter, producing a wide range of wine.
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GeorgeF rancisco Seven Hats….and counting!
When George Francisco joined the Tower Group as Executive Chef at the award winning Roberts Restaurant in February this year, the landmark venue prepared itself for a new culinary direction. Under the Tower Estate umbrella, Francisco is also the Executive Chef of Tower Estate restaurant, Nine. Now visitors to the Hunter Valley get to experience the culinary delights created by this chef who has been awarded no less than 7 hats in the 11 years he has been in Australia. George started his career in 1980 working under famous chef, Marcel Desaulniers and working at some of the best restaurants on the US West Coast including working at San Francisco's Star’s under Jeremiah Tower and Mark Franz followed by his first head chef role at the now famous Café Claude before moving to the Miyako Hotel as Executive Chef of YoYo Bistro. George then later went back to work for Chef Mark Franz as Chef de Cuisine of the very famous and still operating, Farallon Restaurant in San Francisco. George made the decision to move to Australia in 2001 believing that Sydney had incredible potential for being ''a major force in the world's food scene". “I was so impressed with the Australian food scene, everything tasted so much better and fresher and it is so much easier to grow your own produce here than anywhere I have lived - something that all chefs aspire to” says George after setting up home in the Hunter. Upon arriving in Australia his first job was Executive Chef at Wildfire Restaurant at Circular Quay in Sydney before going on to open his own restaurant the critically acclaimed Dish in Sydney’s Northern Beaches which
earned 3 chefs hats over a 3 year period. George then joined Jonah’s at Whale Beach where he was the Executive Chef for 5 years earning 4 hats in that time and also became known for his famous creation the ''wobbly panna cotta'' which became a u-tube sensation. George is now aiming for his eighth Chefs Hat with Roberts and Nine restaurant at Tower Lodge. Since arriving in the Hunter, George has put his own personal stamp on Roberts, spending his time training and developing the kitchen team, refurbishing the restaurant and redesigning the menu to which he has added some of his signature dishes which include CharGrilled Aged Rangers Valley Rib Eye and the Confit of Berkshire Duck Belly. One of his latest projects has been to restore the wonderful wood-fired oven in the main restaurant which has become a focal point of the dining experience at Roberts and is now also used to cook lamb shanks, oxtail and for smoking bacon. George’s modern Australian style of cooking has a significant French influence but it is his passion for locating and using the best and freshest local produce that ensures diners at Roberts Restaurant are treated to a truly memorable dining experience. George is also a member of the Slow Food Club - a testament to his undying passion for food. Founded in Italy in 1986 Slow Food is a grassroots international organisation that links pleasure and food with awareness and responsibility. When not in his kitchen, George spends his time fulfilling his love for growing things in his garden in Lovedale, surfing at Anna Bay and spending time with his partner and two children aged 9 and 11 and their newly discovered adventure - yabby catching!
LOWER HUNTER VALLEY WINE COUNTRY INDEX TO WINE & FOOD TRAIL MAPS
Trail Map
PG
Pokolbin 1
10 / 11
Pokolbin 2
28 / 29
Lovedale, Rothbury, Branxton
52 / 53
Mount View, Cessnock 66 / 67 & Nulkaba Broke Fordwich
78 / 79
Wollombi Valley
82 / 83
WOLLOMBI MILLFIELD
About the Lower Hunter Valley The soils in the Hunter Valley vary widely from sandy alluvial flats to black silty loams and friable red duplex soils. Most of the vineyards are situated on the red clay soils on the foothills of the Brokenback Range or on the creek flats below them, which have sandy soils greatly suited to whites. The Lower Hunter can get as much as 400–530mm of rain during harvest which takes place between the months of January to early March, creating significant challenges for winemakers as the rain, along with the heat, encourages high relative humidity in the region and the subsequent threat of mould. The most widely planted grape varieties in the Hunter Valley are Chardonnay, Semillon and Verdelho among the whites and Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot among the reds. The area is famous for its Semillon white wines and its soft rich reds made from Shiraz. The Hunter Valley produced Australia's first Chardonnays in the 1970's and its soft lavish fruit driven style, adds another staple variety to the area. Verdelho has been planted in the Hunter Valley for over 100 years but it is has only recently become popular as a single varietal wine producing a dry wine with spicy tropical fruit characters.
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The Hunter Valley is Australia's oldest wine region with vines first being planted in the early 1830's. Vineyards are located in two areas - Upper and Lower Hunter Valley. The Lower Hunter Valley is nestled amidst the Brokenback Range and located 160km north of Sydney and 40km from the Pacific Coast. Famous for its world-class wines, most notably Hunter Valley Semillon and Shiraz, the Lower Hunter is said to have pioneered Australian wine tourism and is now well established with a good selection of accommodation, cellar doors and restaurants. The majority of cellar doors and tourist developments are found in the Lower Hunter Valley with the area consisting of a number of very distinct wine areas - these include the areas of Pokolbin, Rothbury (or Lovedale), Mount View, Wollombi Valley and Broke-Fordwich, each unique in their own way. Broke-Fordwich is the only officially recognised sub-region of the Lower Hunter. Renown for its food and wine, the Hunter Valley is abounding with choice with more than 65 restaurants, over 140 wineries and cellar doors and a diverse range of gourmet foods and regional produce spread throughout the area. The Hunter Valley also has a vibrant calendar of events throughout the year to capture the imagination of wine and food lovers - most notably the Lovedale Long Lunch and Hunter Valley Wine & Food Month.
POKOLBIN WINE & DINE TRAIL 1 (NORTH)
Pokolbin Trail 1 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. The rural locality of Pokolbin sits in the shadow of the Brokenback Range and is considered to be the ''hub'' of the Hunter Valley wine region and where the largest collection of wineries, accommodation houses and restaurants can be found. 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.
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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.
TRAIL 1 CELLAR DOORS
PAGE
MAP
Arrowfield Estate Bimbadgen Estate Blueberry Hill Vineyard Constable Estate Denmar Estate Gemelli Estate Hermitage Rd Cellars James Estate Macquariedale Organic Wines
12 13 14 15 15 16 17 17 18
C1 D7 C7 E4 B2 E7 C2 E2 B4
Misty Glen Wines Oakvale Wines Ridgeview Wines Tintilla Estate Travertine Wines Veladare Wines Vinden Estate Waverley Estate Wombat Crossing Vineyard
18 19 19 20 21 21 22 23 23
D5 F2 B4 C2 B3 D6 E5 E7 B1
TRAIL 1 CELLAR DOORS WITH RESTAURANTS
PAGE
MAP
Bimbadgen Estate Denmar Estate Hermitage Rd Cellars Ridgeview Wines Vinden Estate
13 15 17 19 22
D7 B2 C2 B4 E5
TRAIL 1 RESTAURANTS
PAGE
MAP
Amanda's on the Edge Bistro Vinden Black Creek Farm CafĂŠ DenMar CafĂŠ Pokolbin Hill Emersons at Pokolbin ESCA Bimbadgen Muse Kitchen Ridgeview Restaurant San Martino Restaurant The Beltree The Verandah Restaurant
12 22 14 15 15 16 13 18 19 20 19 22
C7 E5 B6 B2 F6 E2 D7 D2 B4 C2 A1 E7
TRAIL 1 PROVIDORES
PAGE
MAP
Binnorie Dairy
14
C1
TO MAP POKOLBIN WINE & FOOD TRAIL 2 (SOUTH)
Annual Events
i
For more information about events visit www.thehunterblackboard.com
HOW TO USE WINE & DINE
In the following pages you will find information about Wining & Dining in the Pokolbin North area. This area is differentiated by the colour ORANGE throughout and also by the shaded bar down the outside of each page. Listings are in alphabetical order where possible and can be easily identified by the following symbols: Wineries—will display the following symbols: = White Wines
= Sparkling Wines
= Red Wines
= Fortified Wines
Restaurants– will display the Providores— will display the
symbol symbol
PAGE 11 11 PAGE
Hunter Valley Wine & Food Month For the entire month of June the Hunter Valley showcases and celebrates Hunter Valley wines and fresh local produce. Check out the events at www.hvwineandfood.hvva.com.au. Throughout June. Jazz in the Vines Jazz in the Vines is unlike any other Jazz concert in Australia. It’s more a picnic with good friends, fantastic food and great Hunter Valley wines. Artist's include some of the country’s biggest names. Last weekend in October. A Day on the Green Bimbadgen plays host to this popular concert series, running from September through to February. The line-up features both local and international stars. Visit www.adayonthegreen.com for announcements.
TO MAP POKOLBIN WINE & FOOD TRAIL 2 (SOUTH)
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Image courtesy of Wyndham Estate
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Image courtesy of RidgeView Wines
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Matt Burton
The Gundog Estate star continues to rise...
In just 12 years, Matt has had a fascinating and illustrious career in winemaking which now involves operating his own wine business and cellar door Gundog Estate on McDonalds Rd in Pokolbin, as well as Burton International Wine Consultants, a company he founded in 2010. Through this business, he provides a consulting service covering all major aspects of wine production and wine business, to other small wine producers. Matt also has extensive experience exporting wine to numerous countries including the US, Japan, Denmark and China. Drawing on this experience, Matt also assists Australian and International businesses in the establishment of new export trade. Matt has been involved at various levels of winemaking and wine business management for the last twelve years. Starting out as a Trainee Winemaker in the Hunter Valley, Matt then gained invaluable experience making wine in the United States and France before heading to Coldstream
The History of
PAGE 24
THE CORK!
For more interesting cork trivia visit www.corkfacts.com
Hills in the Yarra Valley. Matt finally returned to the Hunter where he settled at Wandin Valley Estate in Lovedale where he had the dual role of Winemaker and General Manager. During his time at Wandin Valley, Matt’s wines gained many accolades, and in 2010 was recognised as the “Hunter Valley’s Rising Star” at the Hunter Valley Wine Industry Awards. Matt is passionate about single vineyard wines, regional expression and premium grape varietals. He believes well made wine should clearly reflect where the fruit is grown, and tell a story about the particular vineyard and season.
''Our unique range of wine is unlike any offering from other Australian wine producers. The decision to focus on contrasting varieties, climates and regions will challenge and delight any serious wine lover. This diversity in style, and our determination to produce some of Australia’s finest Semillon and Shiraz, will cement Gundog's reputation as one of Australia’s most dynamic and exciting new wine producers'' says Matt. It comes as no surprise to many that under Matt’s management and winemaking, both Wandin Valley Estate and Gundog Estate have been awarded a prestigious five star winery rating from Australia’s leading wine critic – James Halliday.
Cork' s first recorded use as a stopper was by the Egyptians thousands of years ago. Ancient Greeks also used cork oak bark to make stoppers for vessels for wine and olive oil. In the 1600s, a French monk called Dom Pérignon, took a giant step towards the modern, most widespread use of cork — as a wine closure. Containers holding sparkling wine traditionally had been plugged by wooden stoppers wrapped in olive oil-soaked hemp. Dom Pérignon observed that these stoppers often popped out. He successfully swapped the conical plugs for cork stoppers and cork soon became essential for wine bottling. The spread of mass-produced glass bottles with a uniform neck and opening helped to advance the acceptance of cork stoppers, not just for wine but a wide range of liquids. Production boomed in the last quarter of the nineteenth century. Between 1890 and 1917, the industry' s workforce more than doubled and by 1930 it had increased fivefold, to a total of 10,000 workers. By this time Portugal had become the world' s leading cork producer, a position it holds to this day.
Let’s Hear it for the Girls! Shaking things up at Bimbadgen.... Sarah Crowe...Senior Winemaker
Ebonnie Newby….Executive Chef
Sarah Crowe is recognised as one of Australia's brightest, young female winemakers and in 2009 was the recipient of the Hunter Valley Wine Industry Association’s Hunter Legends “Rising Star of the Year” Award. Sarah refers to herself as an ‘accidental’ Winemaker. Shortly after a trip to France, during which she was introduced to the wonders of wine, Sarah contacted Brokenwood Wines and made her way to the Hunter for what was to be just a few weeks learning vine management. It was around this time that Sarah, with the full intention of spending her days working in a vineyard, enrolled in a Bachelor of Applied Science in Viticulture at Charles Sturt University, studying part time whilst continuing to work in the field.
As Executive Chef of Esca Bimbadgen, Ebonnie Newby is one of the most talented and highly regarded chefs in the Hunter.
It was during the 2002 harvest season, where Sarah found herself working in the winery while the fruit was being harvested, that Sarah became ''hooked'' by the winemaking process and never returned to work in the vineyard. A few vintages later she became Brokenwood’s Assistant Winemaker. In 2009, Sarah was the recipient of the Hunter Valley Wine Industry Association’s Hunter Legends “Rising Star of the Year” Award - an award that instigated a new job opportunity for Sarah at the recently established Swish Wines where Sarah took on the role as Chief Winemaker, whilst also overseeing the construction of the company’s brand new wine production facility in Lovedale. Sarah later joined the team at Pokolbin based winery Bimbadgen in the position of Senior Winemaker. This new challenge sees Sarah working on a range of wine varietals across the Bimbadgen range, along with working on two premium Hunter Valley vineyards owned by the winery.
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Sarah’s first complete vintage at Bimbadgen saw the range, including her 2011 whites and 2010 reds, win a total of 3 trophies, 5 gold medals, 12 silver medals and 49 bronze medals in both national and International wine shows.
Born and bred in the Hunter Valley, Ebonnie began her apprenticeship in Newcastle and then spent her apprenticeship at Bayview's at Warners Bay, prior to becoming Head Chef at Martines. Ebonnie then set her sights on the restaurants in the Hunter Valley taking up a role as Sous Chef at the Seasons Restaurant in Hunter Valley Gardens, before accepting a position at Terroir Restaurant followed by Head Chef at Restaurant Cuvee in Pokolbin. After a number of years and with some serious culinary experience behind her, Ebonnie moved on to experience the Melbourne food scene by accepting the Executive Chef role at Melbourne’s Silk Road Bar and Lounge where she made her mark reworking the menu and sourcing all produce from local producers - a quality she gained from her experience in the Hunter Valley. Ebonnie then also worked at the Waterfront Restaurant and Station Pier in Port Melbourne as Executive Chef. With a desire to return to the Hunter Valley, Ebonnie took on the Executive Chef role at the highly regarded and awarded Esca Bimbadgen Restaurant where she is at her best cooking with local produce and with one of her favorite local ingredients, and what Esca Bimbadgen is famous for - ''duck''. When not in the Esca kitchen creating her latest masterpiece, Ebonnie loves to focus on baking cakes and decorating in her own kitchen, pottering around in her herb and vegetable garden, spending time with husband Amar and dog Jellybean, and loves having regular dinner parties with friends.
POKOLBIN WINE & DINE TRAIL 2 (SOUTH) TRAIL 2 CELLAR DOORS
Pokolbin Trail 2 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. 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.
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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. Vineyards only really began to appear in Pokolbin from the late 1870's but it was the depression of the 1890's that dealt the industry a cruel blow and it was not really until the 1960s that the wine industry based in the Lower Hunter really began to grow due to the closure of local mining operations and the arrival of European immigrants after the Second World War. By the 1980s it had replaced the mining industry as the mainstay of the local economy.
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Ernest Hill Wines Gundog Estate Hungerford Hill Wines Iron Gate Estate Kevin Sobels Wines Lindeman’s Wine McGuigan Wines McLeish Estate Meerea Park Peterson House Pokolbin Estate Tamburlaine Organic Wines Tempus Two Tower Estate Wynwood Estate
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Hungerford Hill Wines Lindeman’s Wines Peterson House Tempus Two
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TRAIL 2 RESTAURANTS
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And the Winner is Oscars Aust. Regional Food Store Blaxlands Inn Bodega Restaurant & Bar Café 1843 at Lindeman’s Harrigan’s Irish Pub Hunter Valley Steakhouse Infuzion Restaurant Muse Restaurant & Café Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant Cuvee Restaurant Sanctuary Roberts Restaurant The Brickworks Brasserie The Cellar Restaurant Twine Restaurant Vittorios Italian Restaurant
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TRAIL 2 PROVIDORES
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Aust. Regional Food Store Gundog Estate & Hunter Pantry Hunter Olive Centre Hunter Valley Cheese Factory Hunter Valley Chocolate Co.
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Annual Events HOW TO USE WINE & DINE Chocolate Festival at Hunter Valley Gardens A In the following pages you will find information about
chocolate experience like no other - great family fun and Wining & Dining in the Pokolbin South area. This area is differentiated by the colour TAN throughout and also by activities. First Weekend in July. the shaded bar down the outside of each page. Listings The Feast of the Olive Learn all that there is to know appear in alphabetical order wherever possible. about olives & olive products, with tastings, cooking demonstrations, classes & free recipes. Wineries—will display the following symbols: End September. = Sparkling Wines = White Wines Christmas Lights Spectacular at Hunter Valley
Gardens. Over a million Christmas lights on show throughout designated areas of Hunter Valley Gardens. November to January.
Restaurants– will display the Providores— will display the
= Fortified Wines
symbol symbol
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For more information about events visit www.thehunterblackboard.com or www.hvg.com.au
= Red Wines
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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.
www.blaxlandsinn.com info@blaxlandsinn.com
DINING STYLE Casual dining
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.
Wed—Sun from 12PM-3PM
Our meals range from Certified Angus steaks, salads and burgers. You might also be tempted to try one of our famous deep dish pies!
Wed—Sun from 6PM-9PM
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).
OPENING HOURS LUNCH DINNER 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
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MAP REF: C5
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LINDEMAN’S WINE
119 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 02 4993-3700
One of the oldest and most respected wineries in the Hunter Valley, Lindeman’s has the enviable reputation for producing some of the worlds most revered wines. Our stylish cellar door offers something for everyone:
♦ A range of experiences, including our Ultimate Indulgence Food & Wine ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
Matching and Super Premium tastings Upstairs Wedding and Event Space for 300 Indoor and Outdoor dining at Café 1843 Gourmet Local Produce Unique and unforgettable Surroundings
www.lindemans.com.au cellardoor@lindemans.com WINE TASTING & SALES Open 7 Days 10AM-5PM
CAFÉ 1843 Open 7 Days 10AM-4PM Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day & Good Friday
GROUPS By appointment only
WHITE WINES Semillon, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Grigio, Verdelho, Sauvignon Blanc RED WINES Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rosé
SPARKLING Pinot Chardonnay, Shiraz FORTIFIED WINES Muscat, Viognier, Grand Tawny, Moscato
SPECIALTIES Sparkling Shiraz, Coonawarra Trio, Cellar Door Exclusives
WINEMAKER Wayne Faulkenburg and Brett Sharpe
PRICE RANGE From $10 to $200/bottle
As our founder Dr Henry Lindeman said “the purpose of wine is to bring happiness” With that in mind, Lindeman’s and Café 1843 are the must visit destination to share moments of happiness with family and friends everyday.
DINING STYLE Casual Wood Fired Pizzas to share
PRICE RANGE Main Meal from $15
CAFÉ 1843 @ Lindeman’s
MAP REF: E2
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The purpose of hearty wholesome food and beautiful wine is to bring comfort to the soul. Café 1843 is the destination to share moments of happiness with family & friends. ♦ Great Coffee ♦ Fresh Local Produce ♦ Wood fired Pizza Oven ♦ Sweet Treats ♦ Wine by the Glass or Bottle ♦ Indoor and Outdoor Dining ♦ Childrens Menu
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OISHII JAPANESE THAI RESTAUANT 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.
Cnr McDonalds & Broke Rd’s Pokolbin PH 4998 7051
Most importantly it blends very well with the wines from the Hunter Valley. Oishii has become one of the favorite dining venues in the Hunter Valley as it offers a sharing menu ideal and affordable for families and parties. Join the many repeat patrons and enjoy the fare either inside the dining room, on the terrace overlooking the vineyards or choose the very popular take away option.
www.oishii.com.au info@oishii.com.au DINING STYLE Casual authentic Japanese and Thai Dining OPENING HOURS LUNCH 7 Days from 11.30AM—3PM DINNER 7 Nights from 5.30PM-9.30PM CLOSED Christmas Day GROUPS Bookings preferred SPECIALITIES Sushi, Sashimi, Teppanyaki, Teriyaki PRICE GUIDE Starters $9-$15; Mains $20-$27
MAP REF: C4
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THE CELLAR RESTAURANT
HVG Village, Broke Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998 7584 www.the-cellar-restaurant.com.au thecellar@bigpond.com
“Such good food in such unpretentious surroundings is worthy of rural France”
The London Sunday Times
OPENING HOURS
LUNCH Mon to Sat 12PM—3PM DINNER Mon to Fri 6.30PM—9PM Sat 6PM-9PM Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day GROUPS Contact us for details
Chef/Owner Andrew Wright is passionate about sourcing the freshest and best quality local ingredients. 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
MAP REF: C3
LEGENDARY WINES Made Not only is the Hunter Valley Australia’s oldest wine region, but it is also recognised for producing some of world’s most exceptional and distinctive wines. The most recognised is the Hunter Valley Semillon and the Hunter Valley Shiraz - the regions two signature grape varieties.
By Legends
McGuigan, Bruce Tyrrell, Jay Tulloch, Fay McGuigan, Phil Ryan, and Christopher Barnes.
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Together this group, made up of some of the most respected and experienced members of the wine industry, represents hundreds of years of wine making experience, a deep It is therefore no surprise that it is these two varieties that were knowledge of the local area, and the regions unique grape specially selected to produce the 2010 Legends Hunter Valley varieties that make these two wines true examples of what the Semillon and the 2009 Legends Hunter Valley Shiraz. Both of Hunter Valley is renown for. these wines are produced from premium grapes donated by The Legends wines are exclusive to Hunter Valley Wine leading Hunter growers and then vinified and matured by the Society. To taste these two great wines visit the Hunter Valley "Hunter Valley Legends'' including Brian Walsh, John Tulloch, Wine Society at the Visitor Information Centre located at 455 Karl Stockhausen, Max Drayton, Perc McGuigan, Brian Wine Country Drive.(opposite Crowne Plaza Lovedale MAP REF H3).
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Mouth watering image courtesy of Twine Restaurant
NOT APPROVED
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Two great spots to lunch..alot! Restaurant reviews by Sir Lunchalot—Peter Firth
WELCOME TO ALL OUR READERS! It is hard to believe that six months has passed since our last issue and four months since the 2012 vintage. This was a very hard vintage for all concerned due to the poor weather conditions. I am informed in spite of this and although the yield was low, the quality of the wine will be above average, especially the whites. The 2010/2011 vintages of whites are outstanding as you will see when out tasting. Meanwhile Lady Lunchalot and I have managed to visit a number of Cafés and Restaurants over this period and we would like to share some of our experiences with you.
RIDGEVIEW RESTAURANT @ RIDGEVIEW WINES Ridgeview Restaurant on Sweetwater Road has only been doing Cypriot style cooking for a few months and has already established a reputation for its food. The owners, Darren and Tracey Scott, together with the Executive Chef have decided to introduce a different style of food in the Valley, namely with Middle East and Mediterranean influences, which is proving to be making its mark in the food industry.
grown of course. This was a winner—the best I have tasted as I am not usually an Haloumi fan. The next section is referred to as Plated Meals. Some of us chose The Nolan Beef cooked in port. We discovered the name Nolan is a special breed of cattle. This was served with a speck, mushroom and tomato sauce on potato puree with fresh beans. Make sure you are hungry! Another dish was the Dukkah Crusted Salmon Fillet with baby potatoes lightly sautéed, asparagus and citrus Hollandaise. Again very popular. There are a few side dishes including Greek pasta salad, cinnamon sweet potatoes and of course the chunky beer battered chips.
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This restaurant is superbly appointed, as is the tasting area, with both indoor and outdoor settings in the middle of their vineyards. It is truly an idyllic setting. It brings back memories of our times in Tuscany. Our latest visit included some friends, real “foodies”, which allowed us to Desserts sound decadent, especially the Belgian share some of the dishes. Chocolate Fondant with pistachio ice cream. There is We started with the Taste Plate, which was very well always next time! presented and consisted of Sumac spiced prawns and squid with a very delicate lemon aioli. Everybody thought On our next visit we all decided to indulge in The Cypriot this was special. In the middle was a Smoked Salmon Meze. This is a four course banquet, for which we were dish with a lightly pickled cucumber, which caused a little advised you should allow at lease three hours. For discussion as the cucumber flavour was mild and not example the third course is Lamb and Chicken Souvlaki overpowering. Lastly, there was Lamb Back Strap on cooked over the Cypriot grill, which we were told is a Tabouleh and Tzatziki. Excellent. We added to this an special form of cooking in Cyprus. This comes with Haloumi dish, consisting of caramelised pear, grilled tabouleh and cinnamon sweet potato. Sounds great! pistachios, garnished with oregano and radicchio, home
BISTRO VINDEN AT VINDEN ESTATE Bistro Vinden on Gillards Road has reopened after a couple of years and is fast becoming one of the Hunter’s favourite lunch spots. The setting is mostly outdoors with their vineyards only metres away and Guy’s vegie patch close by. He grows nearly all of his own produce including a vast variety of herbs. He also tries to use only local products. The freshness shows up in his food. Please take time out to have a wine tasting prior to eating so you can try some wines with your food. Sandra will assist you with matching if you need help. Owned by Sandra and Guy Vinden, with Sandra running the restaurant and Guy, who is a solicitor five days a week, moving into his kitchen on weekends to cook, which is his passion. This is reflected in his food both in presentation and flavour. Since the Bistro opened we have managed two visits and been able to enjoy most of the dishes. Here are just a few of his creations. We started with the Duck Liver Pate served with cornichons and lavosh. Very generous portion and extremely tasty. Enough for four!! We combined this with the Tomato and Anchovy Sourdough. The tomatoes are, of course, home grown and marinated in olive oil and white wine vinegar. The white anchovies and baby capers are added to the tomatoes and served on sourdough bread. Another entrée, my favourite, is the Garlic Prawns and Chorizo. Guy flavours these with smoky dried chillies and a little sherry. Very different, but a must!! There are several more on the menu plus specials. (In case you are concerned, there were four of us dining on that day.) Moving onto the mains, I am sure you will find it hard to
choose. We all chose a different one which we shared and this allowed me to pass these on to you. Bistro Vinden Seafood, Guy’s secret Croation recipe so he tells me, is the perfect dish for a winter’s day. It contains prawns, mussels, tomatoes, of course, and is presented with two crab halves on the top. The sauce is made up of white wine, garlic and parsley. This makes a lovely soup to dip your crusty bread into. The Signature Dish. The Beef with Asian Mushrooms is my style of food. Scotch fillet with a special Asian sauce, a variety of Asian mushrooms and five spices. This is accompanied with a garlic and ginger kumara mash. Great fusion of ingredients! Duck Confit a la Guy. This is slow roasted with juniper berries and thyme. Guy uses a sauce with a very slight orange flavour. Fresh vegetables of the season accompany this. The duck meat just fell off the bone. There are many other dishes available including lamb rack, fresh barramundi and of course specials. So far we have not managed to find room for dessert, but I saw the Spanish Chocolate Cake being served to the table next door and was told by the consumer “delicious”. There is also a children’s menu. We hope you have the chance to visit these two restaurants while in the Hunter and enjoy the food as much as we did. If you happen to see the Lunch-mobile, please come up and say “Hello” or email me at lunchalot@wineanddineguides.com. Bon Apetit! Peter Firth aka
Sir Lunchalot
Dining in the Vines at Bistro Vinden
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It’s not about dinner... ...it’s about dining. RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2010 Restaurant & Catering Industry Awards for Excellence Hunter Valley
ONE CHEFS HAT Sydney Morning Herald 2011 & 2012 Good Food Guide
BEST CONTEMPORARY AUSTRALIAN RESTAURANT 2010 & 2011Restaurant & Catering Industry Awards for Excellence Hunter Valley
1 Broke Road Pokolbin 2320 P 02 4998 6777 E muse musedining.com.au OPENING HOURS Restaurant Wed - Sat 6-10pm / Café Open 7 days 10am-5pm
TOP DROPS CAPERCAILLIE THE GHILLIE’ 2007 HUNTER VALLEY SHIRAZ
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Capercaillie’s ambition is to remain a small winery focused entirely upon the creation of premium quality wines. Critics and judges alike recognise the high standard Capercaillie maintains in their quest for distinctive and innovative wines. ‘The Ghillie’ 2007 Hunter Valley Shiraz is an exceptional Hunter Valley Shiraz and spends 14 months in a combination of new French oak barriques and Hogshead. The Ghillie is made only in excellent years but always 100% Hunter Valley, and the fruit comes from a small parcel grown on a single vineyard in Pokolbin. The 35 year old vines produce fruit of consistently outstanding quality. Tasting: Aromatic and vibrant in fruit profile with aromas of plum, mulberry, spice together with hints of leather. Medium bodied and savoury in style, this wine is fairly generous for this region which is indicative of the great vintage we had in 2007.
TINTILLA ESTATE SAPHIRA SANGIOVESE - 2010
Until a few years ago Sangiovese was hardly known to Australians. Yet many had enjoyed the wines of Chianti not knowing what grape variety dominated the wines. Tintilla Estate was the first winery to plant Sangiovese in the Hunter Valley where the vines have thrived in the Pokolbin soil and climate. Aspects of the weather, like the hot summers and summer rains, are reminiscent of Tuscany and help to produce rich, vibrant, medium bodied wine, with a solid structure and a characteristic dry finish.
Tasting: The taste is firm yet elegant, reflecting the aromas of dark cherries and savoury cranberries with a touch of spice. Sangiovese is very food friendly, complementing rather than competing with a meal. Enjoy with game foods, duck and roasts.
TOP DROPS BRIAR RIDGE 2011 HOMESTEAD VERDELHO
MCLEISH WINES 2007 SEMILLON
The Homestead Verdelho is a popular style, typically drier than the usual semi sweet styles from the Hunter Valley. As a result it is a wine that is suited to both drinking on its own or partnering with food. Grown on the Homestead block in Briar Ridges Mount View vineyard which contains well drained sandy loam soils. The crop yields are relatively low, producing excellent concentration of fruit flavour. The wine is pale straw yellow with green hues in colour with a bouquet of lifted tropical and passionfruit aromas. The palate is rich and full flavoured with a touch of sweetness balanced with gentle acidity.
McLeish Wines have built a reputation for producing quality wines that have gone on to achieve a range of accolades both nationally and internationally. The much decorated 2007 Semillon is the winner of 4 Trophies, 12 Gold, 11 Silver & 8 Bronze awards. Awards include a trophy at the 2012 Sydney Royal Wine Show for the best open vintage Semillon and the Blue/ Gold & Top 100 rating at 2012 Sydney International Wine Show (Judged with food along with 2000 entries from all around the world.) Tasting: Citrus and very pure Semillon nose with gentle toasty and lemon citrus and honey flavours. It is still very fresh and
Enjoy on its own or partner with spicy Asian dishes (i.e.Thai), cooked seafood or salad. Awards: Silver Hunter Valley Wine Show.
tight with a strong line of acidity and good length – quite mouth puckering. This is an intense & powerful Semillon yet still fine and a natural complement to any seafood dish.
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LOVEDALE, ROTHBURY & BRANXTON WINE & DINE TRAIL CELLAR DOORS
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, cellar doors, quality accommodation, fine restaurants and unique galleries. 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. 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. 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 reemerge and wine production began once again.
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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.
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Adina Vineyard Allandale Winery Capercaillie Wine DeBortoli Wines Emmas Cottage Vineyard Gartelmann Wines Pierre’s Wines Sandalyn Estate St Clements Estate Tatlers Wines Wandin Hunter Valley Wyndham Estate
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CELLAR DOORS WITH RESTAURANTS
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Adina Vineyard Gartelmann Wines St Clements Estate Tatlers Wines Wandin Hunter Valley Wyndham Estate
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RESTAURANTS Harry’s at Tatlers Leaves and Fishes Lillino’s Bar Trattoria Magpie Café Mojos on Wilderness Royal Federal Hotel Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar The Olive Mill Café The Olive Tree Restaurant Wandin Wine Bar & Diner
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PROVIDORES
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Adina Vineyard Gartelmann Wines Hunter Valley Chocolate Company Mojos The Deli Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar Sandalyn Estate
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ANNUAL EVENTS Lovedale Long Lunch A 'progressive lunch' where visitors work their way though participating wineries, enjoying the quality food, wine, music and entertainment at all of the venues. Plan ahead for accommodation. Always the 3rd weekend each May.
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For more information about events visit www.thehunterblackboard.com or www.lovedalehuntervalley.com.au
In the following pages you will find information about Wining & Dining in the Lovedale area. The Lovedale area is differentiated by the colour GREEN throughout and also by the shaded bar down the outside of each page. Listings are in alphabetical order where possible and can be easily identified by the following symbols: Wineries/Cellar Doors—will display the following symbols: = White Wines
= Sparkling Wines
= Red Wines
= Fortified Wines
Restaurants– will display the Providores— will display the
symbol symbol
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Opera in the Vineyards Good Weekend Opera in the Vineyards a muchloved annual feast of opera, food and, of course, wine! 3rd weekend in October at Wyndham Estate
HOW TO USE WINE & DINE
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Image courtesy of Wynwood Estate
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THE OLIVE TREE RESTAURANT
Wyndham Estate’s history dates back to the early 1800s and the original homestead of George Wyndham (circa 1830) still remains and forms part of a new Heritage Walk around the property to finish your day.
www.olivetreerestaurant.com.au janet@olivetreerestaurant.com.au
OPENING HOURS BREAKFAST
Sundays 10AM—12NOON
LUNCH
Sat & Sun 12NOON– 3PM Closed Christmas Day
GROUPS
MAP REF: A6
Contact us for details
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The Olive Tree Restaurant offers alfresco dining in a spectacular country setting. The rustic Mediterranean menu is designed around the region’s abundance of fresh seasonal produce and meals are served on beautiful antique crockery. All tables have views across manicured vineyards and further afield to the Hunter River and the stunning countryside of Lambs Valley in the distance. The ambience relaxed, friendly and welcoming, making it the ideal venue for a long leisurely lunch with family and friends.
Wyndham Estate, Branxton PH 4938 1831
ST CLEMENTS ESTATE ST CLEMENTS ESTATE The brand new Cellar Door at St Clements Estate in Lovedale boasts one of the most beautiful views of the Hunter Valley and Broken Back Range, but it’s the view to the future that has owner Luigi Pinna excited. Our vision is not only to attract visitors to our beautiful cellar door and our exclusive wines but also to introduce a little piece of Italy into the area. Now open for tastings, St Clements Estate offers 2 Semillons, 2 Shiraz followed by Merlot, Pinot Grigio, Verdehlo and a unique Rosé made from Grenache. Also offered is the 2009 Premium Red which is a blend of Barbera, Nebbiolo and Grenache (a very special European blend available only at St Clements). To complete the Italian experience St Clements also produce their very own Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Red Wine Vinegar and preserved olives.
136 Talga Rd, Rothbury PH 4930-7799
Lillino’s Bar, Pizzeria & Trattoria
Lillino’s Bar Pizzeria & Trattoria offers a genuine Sardinian food experience new to the Hunter. Our newly arrived Chefs are delighted to offer a degustation of the best fresh products that the Hunter can provide and cook them in the Sardinian way. Come and try our Porcetto, the Kulurjones, salted crust Barramandi or delicious Spaghetti with sea urchin and homemade Bottarga of Tasmanian Mussels, they are just some of the delights that are available most times. With a menu` that changes regularly, you’ll enjoy a great variety of exclusive dishes. Available for any kind of function, we are only too pleased to create a menu to suit your taste and your budget. Come and join us for the Sardinian experience and a cold beer or a glass of our exclusives wines in our r o oft op g ar d e n, A K ENT ’ AN NO S y o u r host Luigi Pinna. Oyster & Prawn Bar
www.stclementsestates.com.au luigi@stclementsestates.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM-5PM RESTAURANT HOURS LUNCH Thurs to Sun12PM-3PM DINNER Thurs to Tues 6PM-LATE. Closed Wednesday GROUPS Welcome. Bookings essential. A $5pp charge applies to groups for wine tasting WHITE WINES Semillon, Verdelho, Pinot Grigio, Rosé made from Grenache RED WINES Shiraz, Merlot, BNG (blend of Barbera, Nebbiolo and Grenache) SPARKLING Pinsecco, Semi Dolce SPECIALTIES Extra virgin olive oil and preserved olives WINEMAKERS David Hook, Matt Burton PRICE RANGE From $22 to $60 per bottle. Main meals $28 to $40
OPENING SOON! MAP REF: D5
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WANDIN HUNTER VALLEY
12 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale PH 4930-9888
Wandin Hunter Valley is situated in beautiful Lovedale on the slopes of the Molly Morgan Mountains with views over the Brokenback range. The vineyard was established in the early 1970's and the mature Shiraz and Chardonnay vines are now over 30 years old. Wandin is a pre-eminent Australian wine brand and aspires to continue being a premier destination in the Hunter Valley, awarded 5 stars by James Halliday in the 2012 Australian Wine Companion. Wandin is one of the leading Hunter boutique wine producers. Our extensive range of top quality award winning wines include the Hunter classics; Semillon, Chardonnay & Shiraz. Come and meet our friendly & informative Cellar Door team, 10am to 5pm, 7 days a week. Group bookings welcome.
www.wandinhuntervalley.com.au info@wandinhuntervalley.com.au WINE TASTING & SALES 7 Days 10AM-5PM Closed Christmas Day & Melbourne Cup Day GROUPS Please book in advance Charges may apply WHITE WINES Reserve Semillon, Single Vineyard Semillon, SLA Semillon, Reserve Chardonnay, Wild Ferment Chardonnay, Viognier, Semillon / Sauvignon Blanc RED WINES Bridies Reserve Shiraz, Members Block Ruby Cabernet, Pavillion Red—Merlot/ Malbec/Shiraz, Estate Shiraz, SPARKLING Pinot Chardonnay, Moscato, Rosé, Malbec AWARDS James Halliday 5 Star Winery WINEMAKER Daniel Binet PRICE RANGE From $18 to $40/bottle
The Wandin Wine Bar & Diner is open for lunch daily from 12pm, and dinner Friday & Saturday evening. With a new ‘divvy’ plate style of dining, the menu offers both local favourites & American influenced cuisine. The perfect location for an icy cold beer & Wagyu Beef Sliders whilst watching the sports action on the big screens (arranged events only); or dine with a group of friends to enjoy an array of share plates whilst overlooking the vines from the deck, match your lunch choices with award winning Wandin wines. The Wandin cellar door is open for tastings from 10am to 5pm daily, make a day of it and enjoy the full Wandin experience.
RESTAURANT OPEN LUNCH 7 DAYS 12PM-3PM DINNER Fri & Sat 6PM-Late Closed Christmas Day & Melbourne Cup Day GROUPS Must be booked in advance Set menu (starting at $45pp applies) DINING STYLE With a new ‘Divvy Dishes’ style of dining, the menu offers both local favourites & new American influenced cuisine SPECIALITIES Wagyu Beef & Vintage Cheddar Sliders w/ Crisp Onion Rings; Blackened Salmon Fillet w/ Collard Greens; Prawn & Chorizo Jambayla; Muscat & Chilli Glazed Ribs; Salted Baby Squid w/ Fresh Lemon PRICE GUIDE Divvy Dishes from $10 to $28 each
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MAP REF: D5
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Dining at Amanda’s on the Edge a Salt&Peppa review Amanda' s on the Edge is one of the Hunter Valleys most popular restaurants amongst both locals and visitors to the Hunter and boasts numerous repeat customers and not without good reason. Situated on a picturesque vineyard on McDonalds Rd - Amanda's on the Edge combines excellent food, great wine and outstanding scenery with great effect. Operating for almost 12 years, the restaurant is very intimate and includes an outdoor dining area just a stone throw from the vines - perfect for those warm summer evenings. Inside, the spacious dining areas are very welcoming as is the friendly service with Amanda herself always available to welcome you with a smile.
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The seasonal menu is straightforward, full of delightful options that show a preference for local produce and not too big, which made choosing a meal that much easier. The choice of entrees were enticing and included the highly recommended king prawns as well as the seared scallops which come with a delicate ginger soy and sesame sauce. Other options included baked field mushrooms stuffed with garlic, fetta, basil and pine nuts or pork belly with braised a crispy skin and served on wok tossed king brown mushroom noodles. There is also a creamy crab and bug meat bisque for those who like soup. My choice for entree was the king prawns which were served pan seared in a garlic and parsley butter and looked as good as they tasted. My partner on the other hand went straight for the daily specials menu and chose the goats cheese filled zucchini flowers which turned out to be a deliciously presented dish consisting of four zucchini
flowers on top of a layer of slow cooked tomato sauce. A superb start to the meal, which would have been even better with a slightly larger serving of the delicious tomato sauce. After a such a great start we were looking forward to the mains. The Ocean trout fillet, also selected from the daily specials menu, was perfectly cooked and coupled with an avocado salsa, crispy chats and fresh asparagus. One of the stand-out features of this dish was that the skin of the trout was served separately deliciously salty and crunchy. This dish was beautifully executed and hard to beat! I had my eye on the beef eye fillet which came seared and with a thyme and potato galette, baby spinach and tomato relish. But, when dining at ''Amanda's'' you really cannot go past the duck Maryland - served crisp skinned, but with meat that was perfectly moist without being fatty and beautifully supported by sauté leek and shallot and deliciously golden kipfler potatoes that I could not get enough of. Beautifully matched and uncomplicated flavours! Amanda’s on the Edge left us with little room for dessert but we continued to persevere anyway with the stunning creme brulee - with rhubarb and cookie meringue with kahlua cream and malt ice cream. We also had the red wine poached pear with creamed rice and brulee gelato. Both delicious!
"That was absolutely superb and the Lamb Rack was fantastic" were the words we heard from a clearly very satisfied diner as we made our way out the restaurant. Amanda's on the Edge certainly lives up to its reputation and is highly recommended.
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. Mount View provides a number of wine and dine options with 2 highly 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.
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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 and the Nulkaba Hatchery in Nulkaba.
Mount View image courtesy of Mount View Tourism
CELLAR DOORS Briar Ridge Kelman Vineyard Mount View Estate Petersons Wines Sadder’s Creek Wines Savannah Estate Tallavera Grove Tallowwood Mount View
CELLAR DOORS WITH RESTAURANTS Briar Ridge Tallavera Grove
RESTAURANTS
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Al-Oi Thai Restaurant Australia Hotel Bistro Molines B.L.U.E Thai Briar Grillade 221 Restaurant & Bar at The Royal Oak Hotel SSS BBQ Barns The Brickworks Brasserie
Annual Events
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In the following pages you will find information about Hunter Valley Wine & Food Month For the entire Wining & Dining in the Mount View/Cessnock/Nulkaba month of June the Hunter Valley showcases and area. These areas are differentiated by the colour celebrates Hunter Valley wines and fresh local produce. MAROON throughout and also by the shaded bar down the outside of each page. Listings are in alphabetical Throughout June. order where possible and can be easily identified by the following symbols: Wineries/Cellar Doors—will display the following symbols: = Sparkling Wines
= Red Wines
= Fortified Wines
Restaurants– will display the Providores— will display the
symbol symbol
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For more information about events visit www.thehunterblackboard.com or www.mountview.biz
= White Wines
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Image courtesy of Kelman Vineyard
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Dining at Restaurant Sanctuary a Salt&Peppa review We last dined at Restaurant Sanctuary in February when it was warm enough to eat outside, and despite it having rained we were so impressed with our meal and the overall dining experience that we could not wait to return again which we did - but this time in Autumn. Nestled amongst the magnificent gardens of Peppers Guesthouse, Restaurant Sanctuary is without a doubt one of the most sophisticated and enjoyable dining venues in the Hunter - with exquisite meals created by Executive Chef Michael Bolam and complemented by a wide selection of excellent local wines from which to choose. The restaurant has a modern and yet refined atmosphere with tables set with white linen, elegant cutlery and pristine glasses and fantastic views of the estate. Diners are provided with the option of choosing from the superb a la carte menu which is extensive, blending traditional favourites with a contemporary style, or from the exciting and reasonably priced degustation menu which consists of six courses and an optional cheese course all complemented by matching wines. The wine list is extensive and I was happy to note that while it included wines from many other wine regions it was largely made up of local Hunter Valley wines and featured many boutique labels from the region. We chose the award winning and always pleasing Pokolbin Estate Riesling to accompany our meal. The complimentary ''taster'' of tuna tartare arrived shortly after we were seated and was a delightful hint of the exquisite meal yet to come. We soon moved on to our selection of entrees which was the roast quail served with celeriac, radish and apple remoulade, toasted almonds and vanilla emulsion and the ''tasting plate'' which consisted of a selection of three entree dishes and included the Mandagery Creek venison, chilled watermelon and soft shell crab. I would have liked more of the venison but what I had was absolutely delicious while the soft shell crab in a light tempura batter literally melted in the mouth - tempting me to order the dish again.
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Our choice of mains included seared Mulloway (Jewfish) accompanied with baby fennel, green olive and cherry tomato and the charred lamb backstrap which was perfectly paired with smoked potato and
dutch carrots. The lamb was the best I had ever had, incredibly tender and perfectly cooked and for me the highlight of the meal. I am not often tempted by desserts but the dessert menu at Restaurant Sanctuary is traditionally hard to ignore - especial when it comes to the renown ''A Night at the Movies'' which is an innovative and creatively elegant dessert that includes iced popcorn, sprite sorbet, honeycomb and chewy malteser. Unforgettable - but we had tried that dessert before so putting temptation aside, we decided to explore the menu further by selecting the strawberries and cream with Tahitian vanilla bean cake and marsala sabayon and the Mandarin parfait with meringue date puree and sorbet. The service at Restaurant Sanctuary is extremely good with the staff fully versed in the menu and wine list and very attentive to diners needs. This is fine dining’ at its best and is definitely one for the romantics at heart.... Our compliments to Michael Bolam and his talented team for delivering (yet again), a superb dining experience...
! NGR 2012 I EN BE
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BROKE FORDWICH 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.
CELLAR DOORS
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In the following pages you will find information about Wining & Dining in the Broke Fordwich area. The Broke Fordwich area is differentiated by the colour PEACOCK throughout and also by the shaded bar down the outside of each page. Listings are in alphabetical order where possible and can be easily identified by the following symbols: Wineries/Cellar Doors—will display the following symbols: = White Wines
= Sparkling Wines
Historically, the region was first inhabited by the indigenous Wanaruah tribe many thousands of = Red Wines = Fortified Wines years ago and were known as ‘the people of the hills and plains’ and many direct descendants Restaurants– will display the symbol symbol still live in the area today. These culturally rich Providores— will display the people left many significant cave paintings in the area which are still accessible today. Annual Events
Spirit of the Vine—Meet the winemakers and taste award winning wines from the Broke Fordwich wine region. Sample local produce, olives and cheese, relax and enjoy the live music, you may even win a case of wine. Every October. Broke Village Fair & Vintage Car Display —
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Market stalls with all sorts of things, plenty of food and drink, animals to pat, wood-chopping, snakes & lizards ... something for everybody. September
Views of Broke—photo courtesy of Catherine Vale
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For more information about events visit www.thehunterblackboard.com or www.brokefordwich.com.au
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WOLLOMBI VALLEY TRAIL
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Wollombi is a small, picturesque and historic village that has always been an important base for travellers along the Great North Road and today retains its fine architectural heritage bolstered by cafes, wineries and comfortable guesthouses. The Wollombi 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.
CELLAR DOORS Millbrook Estate Noyce Brothers Stonehurst Cedar Creek Undercliff Winery & Gallery Wollombi Village Vineyard Wollombi Wines
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For more information about events visit www.thehunterblackboard.com or www.visitwollombi.com.au
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Dining at Oishii Japanese Thai a Salt&Peppa review Oishii Restaurant is one of few restaurants that are open 7 days a week, so we decided to take up the opportunity to have dinner at this popular restaurant in the middle of the week and were surprised to see just how busy this charming family owned and operated restaurant was. Dining at Oishii is like few other restaurant experiences and it is easy to see why Oishii has become a highly recommended and favourite dining destination amongst locals and visitors. Located within the Tempus Two complex in Pokolbin and overlooking the architecturally designed amphitheatre and vines, Oishii provides a conveniently located, relaxed and affordable dining venue with dishes designed to please every palate. The menu at Oishii is a combination of two Asian cultures - Thai and Japanese, and includes traditional Thai favourites such as Thai fish cakes, stir fried vegetables, chicken cashew nuts, green curry chicken and other fragrant Thai curries right through to Japanese dishes that include assorted sushi and sashimi selections, teppanyaki and teriyaki. There are als o a v ariety of v ege tarian dis hes . We decided on the chicken satay and assorted sushi and nori rolls for entree as well as the miso soup which proved to be a perfect accompaniment to the Japanese dishes.
We then made a selection of three Thai dishes all served with steamed rice for main courses. The first included the lamb yellow curry which was selected from the specials board. This dish was superbly presented and the lamb deliciously tender with just a hint of ginger and crushed garlic. The sweet and sour chicken looking colourful and healthy, was served with cucumber, tomatoes and shiitake mushrooms and with a tangy and extremely delicious sweet and sour sauce. Our last dish was our favourite and a very traditional Thai meal - the Panang duck curry and as I later discovered, a very popular dish amongst Oishii's patrons. It came served with juicy and generous slices of skinless duck sitting within a deep-flavoured Panang curry sauce and, after the first taste, it was easy to see why this dish was such a favourite... Absolutely delicious and left us wanting more. The dishes are perfect for sharing and ideal for families or groups of friends. The setting is minimalist and with a Thai-themed dining room. Diners also have the option of dining outside on the terrace overlooking the vines - a perfect setting for those warmer days and evenings. Oishii offers a real alternative for dining in the Hunter Valley and is a “must dining experience�.
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WINE & DINE ...WINE & FOOD TOURS & 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. Alternatively, hire a bicycle and tour the regions cellar doors, restaurants and attractions at your own pace.
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 HUNTER WINE TOURS & RESTAURANT TRANSFERS* Visit the smaller Cellar Doors with us! We take time to taste Olives, Oils, Cheese and Gelato including your choice of lunch venue. All travel by brand new luxurious thirteen seat commuter bus. Operating most days with Local Pokolbin pick up. Restaurant transfers are available Friday & Saturday evenings from 6PM Central Pokolbin Area only.
www.allhunterwinetours.4t.com ahwt@bigpond.net.au TO BOOK CALL MICHAEL ON
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BEST TOUR
www.besttour.com.au
0400 427 050
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!
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The last word …. by Neil McGuigan
International Winemaker of the Year and CEO Australian Vintage The Australian wine making industry is going through one of the most difficult times on record with a surplus in the production of wine and an Australian dollar that is putting the brakes on overseas exports and limiting the number of international tourists that would normally visit our wine regions throughout the country. But things will change and we will be ready for it when it does. In the meantime there are things that we as an industry have control over - things that are fundamentally important to the success of any wine company or region. First of all, we need to continue to put more excitement in our industry and encourage winemakers to make and release quality wine - wine that is varietal, clean, fresh, faultless and that over delivers regardless of the price tag. Secondly, we also need to ensure that we continue to focus on the new and exciting varieties such as Marsanne, Rousanne, Maestri and Gruner Veltliner. Varieties not typically associated with Australia. Both of these points are vital to our continued relevance to our consumers and the world markets and future sales of wine.
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Thirdly, collaboration, unity and togetherness are important for our ongoing success as an industry.
Having said that, there is no better example of a community working together for the greater good than that provided by the Hunter Valley wine community. As an industry we are collectively focused on promoting the Hunter Valley as a region, the wines and the uniqueness of what is one of the most spectacular and celebrated wine regions in Australia. This is evident in the many industry events that take place each year such as the annual ''Wine & Food Month'' - with winemakers and restaurateurs coming together for this month long celebration and display of the Hunter's lifestyle, unique wines and fresh produce that the region has become so famous for. Another innovative development for the industry is the launch of the New South Wales Wine Industry Association Ask For It campaign, an initiative to encourage wine lovers to ‘drink and buy local’ at their favourite restaurant, wine bar or bottle shop. If your favourite NSW wine is not available, ask for it! It’s these kind of consumer led campaigns that will see not only New South Wales, but Hunter Valley wines gaining more and more listings at our states best restaurants, bars and wine shops. Great for consumers, great for our wineries. Look out for the Ask For It logo or visit www.nswwineaskforit.com.au for more info. See you at the Cellar Door sometime soon,
Neil McGuigan