TRAVEL GUIDE

Discover The best from the Hunter Valley www.cellarmasters.com.au/ hunter-valley Hunter Valley • Cellar Doors • Restaurants • Festivals & Events • Cheese & Chocolate • Things To Do • Distilleries • Breweries • AND MORE!

Explore other with our series of travel guides for wine lovers! www.cellarmasters.com.au/travelguides PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2018 With vines first planted in the early 1830s, the Hunter Valley can lay claim to Hunter Valley being ’s oldest wine growing region. Household names like Tyrrell’s, McWilliams and Draytons were founded here and wine lovers travel from far and wide to sample the exceptional“ quality the region has to offer. – Australia’s oldest The Hunter Valley is famous for both its red and white wines. Shiraz dominates wine growing region the region’s reds while Hunter Semillon is iconic. With its close proximity to , the Hunter Valley is beloved by

Sydneysiders who regularly make the region a holiday or weekend destination. Unsurprisingly, it’s also one of Australia’s leading tourist attractions.

Separated into the Lower Hunter and Upper Hunter, the majority of wineries are clustered in the southern foothills of the Brokenback Ranges in the Lower Hunter. If you haven’t experienced Hunter Valley “ wines, then I recommend you add it as a destination on your wine journey. As well as world-class wines you’ll discover beautiful countryside and fantastic restaurants – and we’ve picked our favourites to help you plan your visit. Enjoy!

Christine Ricketts Cellar Director

Please note: Prices and information correct at the date of publication based on publicly available information. It is always best to contact the supplier directly to ensure the information presented in this guide remain accurate.

PagePage A 2 || | Page 3 5 Practical Facts 5 Fast Facts

Best time to visit What wines to expect 150 cellar doors Visitors frequent the Hunter Valley year- Shiraz is a Hunter Valley speciality. Red As Australia’s oldest wine producing region, you will be spoiled for choice when visiting the round, so it really comes down to what you lovers travel to the region to experience the Hunter Valley. There’s more than 150 wineries to visit, not to mention a great selection of are after. You can enjoy the spectacular fresh and vibrant examples this famed region restaurants led by forward thinking chefs. changing colours during autumn, blue skies produces with pure fruit character, medium and cosy fireplaces in winter, and lush, weight, and judicious spice and oak handling. Historic wineries You’ll find some of Australia’s most famed wineries in the Hunter Valley. McWilliam’s, green hills and picturesque blooms when White wine drinkers will already be aware Draytons, Tyrrell’s and McGuigan to name just a few. There’s also plenty of boutique wineries spring arrives. Although summer days can of the Hunter’s distinctive Semillon. With to discover, too. get hot, many accommodation options have its lean, racy style that’s light in alcohol, you sparkling swimming pools to help you cool won’t find anything like it in the world. An eventful visit down. It’s also time from January, The Hunter Valley is a vibrant, close-knit community and the locals really know how to draw a making it an exciting time of year to visit. crowd. From festivals that celebrate wine and food, to top musical performers at A Day On the Green, hot air ballooning and the famous Hunter Valley Gardens that regularly holds events Plan your stay The Hunter Valley is a geographically for the whole family, you’ll be hard pressed to fit everything in. big region, so plan your day by region. A village feel Depending on where you are staying, start Pokolbin is considered by many to be the heart of the Hunter Valley but make sure you at Lovedale (travelling from Sydney, you explore the other areas within the Hunter Valley. A little further afield is , a quaint hit Lovedale first with Pokolbin being a village that has maintained its feel as an early pioneering settlement. Broke Fordwich is a 15 min car trip from Lovedeale and Broke peaceful spot to relax that’s also home to the area’s largest organic winery, while nearby an extra 25-30 min drive inland), make Lovedale is an artistic hub with galleries to explore as well as horse riding and hot air your way through to Pokolbin and finish ballooning. in Broke before heading back to your accommodation. This way you aren’t back tracking and wasting precious Spot a roo! wine tasting moments! The region is known for being home to mobs of kangaroos so don’t be surprised if you spot more than one during your visit. A short stay or a week-long adventure The Hunter Valley’s close proximity to Sydney makes the area easy to visit. If you only have a weekend, you’ll have no shortage of wineries, restaurants and attractions to visit, while those visitors with Bordering regions more time can really immerse themselves The Hunter Valley lies inland from the in the region’s top quality wines and stunning coastal areas of Port Stephens, restaurants. With more time up your sleeve Newcastle and Lake Macquarie. For an you can also enjoy the natural beauty of the extended stay, you can soak up the sun and area and even play a round or two of golf. sand in these nearby areas before or after a visit to the Hunter.

PagePage A 4 || | Page 5 Getting Here & Around

By car The Hunter Valley is located about two hours north of Sydney by car (that is, when not driving in peak traffic). The fastest way to get there is to drive over Sydney Harbour Bridge, follow the A1 (Pacific Highway) towards Hornsby and then take the M1 (Pacific Motorway) north towards Newcastle and take the the M15 exit (). By Bus Coach tours to the Hunter Valley’s best wineries are available from Sydney, as well as bespoke tours from Sydney. pick up from Morisset train station and match their transfers with train timetables. Hunter Valley www.rovercoaches.com.au By Train There is a Cityrail service that travels to Maitland or Morisset with connecting buses from each of these stations to Cessnock. From Cessnock it is a 20 minute taxi ride to your desired location in Wine Country. A Countrylink express service (7 stops) also runs Orange from Sydney Central to Singleton Station. From Singleton it is a 20 minute taxi ride to your desired location in Wine Country. By Plane SDNE If you are travelling from further afield, is the closest airport, based in the heart of Country. Swan Hill It is accessible by private charter and helicopters only so most visitors take one of the domestic flights to Newcastle Airport, which is approximately a 45 minute drive from Hunter Valley Wine Country. Canberra Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Tours Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Tours specialise in small personal wine tours. Travelling in a luxury Mercedes Benz bus, you’ll enjoy wine tastings at a great selection of 4 Hunter wineries/ cellar doors, with lunch options and visits to the local cheese and chocolate shops during the day. They operate tours daily from Sydney as well as a local wine tour operating from within the Hunter Valley and regular departures from Newcastle. www.huntervalleywinetastingtours.com.au

PagePage A 6 || | Page 7 Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen Muse Restaurant and Deli Located at the entrance to Pokolbin in 5 Places Two Fat Blokes have created an ambience to the iconic Hungerford Hill Winery, Muse rival the small cafés of Provence or Tuscany 5 Places Restaurant aims to be a showcase of with their gourmet kitchen serving a fresh Hunter Valley produce with an emphasis for Breakfast range of local, Australian and international to Eat on seasonality and quality. The menu is food. It’s a great place to plan your day of constantly changing but an underlying wine tasting while sipping on a coffee and philosophy of technique, restraint and Alley Cat Espresso the breakfast menu won’t leave you hungry Oishii Japanese and Thai Cuisine respect makes this one of the top fine dining with the popular Two Fat Blokes Breakfast or Alley Cat Espresso brings a little bit of Proudly positioned as the only Asian options for visitors to the Hunter Valley. the Breakfast Tower. Melbourne to Melbourne Street, East restaurant in a winery, Oishii is located at Broke Road, Pokolbin Maitland, with its pop up shop. Set up in a 1616 Broke Road, Pokolbin the Tempus Two Cellar Door in the heart 02 4998 6777 tent, Alley Cat delivers a character-filled café 02 4998 6699 of the Hunter Valley. Whether dining experience. They serve Black Drum Coffee inside the minimalist Asian themed dining and aim to keep it simple by selling good Breakfast at the Levee hall or outside in the undercover terrace quality coffee with warm local service. If you’re stopping in at Maitland, chances overlooking the vines and an architecturally designed amphitheatre, Oishii is a favourite 92 Melbourne Street, East Maitland are you’ll come across the Levee, a local community hub that features a blend of for locals and visitors alike. Cnr McDonald Road and Broke Road, Fawk Foods Kitchen & Bakery entertainment and dining options. This includes no shortage of breakfast places Pokolbin If you’re after a relaxed breakfast spot, put to choose from. Dragonfly Foods pours 02 4998 7051 Harrigan’s Irish Pub Fawk Foods on your list of places to visit. Silverskin Roasters coffee alongside famous At Harrigan’s Bistro, they like to wish Brought to you by Frank Fawkner and the homemade cupcakes. Or for soft, mild coffee guests “Céad Mile Failtá” which means ‘A team at EXP Restaurant, it features an onsite EXP. Restaurant visit Sweet Retreat Café which, true to hundred thousand welcomes’ in the native bakehouse that is known for its fantastic EXP’s focus is to create a unique dining their name, has a menu of sweets, waffles, language of Celtic. Harrigan’s Bistro offers sourdough and pastries. The menu offers all experience that’s delicious, entertaining pancakes and shakes. Coffee enthusiasts the perfect setting for relaxed dining year the breakfast classics but delivers them in a and interactive. In the chic dining room that should head to Black Label Espresso where round. Famous for their award winning and way that sets them apart due to using only features handcrafted local furniture, guests you can also pick up toasties, wraps and prestigious Beef and Guinness Pot Pie and the freshest local produce. can sit along the bar and peer directly into bagels. tender steaks, they also offer a range of 2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin the kitchen so they can interact directly with High Street, Central Maitland tempting weekly specials. 02 4998 6585 Chef Frank Fawkner and his team. The menu is driven by the seasons and local produce to 2090 Broke Road, Pokolbin create a unique version of . 02 4998 4300 Café Enzo Praised for its unique ambience and 1596 Broke Road, Pokolbin enchanting courtyard, Café Enzo has been 02 4998 7264 Twine Restaurant serving excellent coffee and food in the heart Twine Restaurant at Wynwood Estate offers of the Hunter Valley since 1996. Set in the a mouth watering modern Australian menu Tuscan inspired Peppers Creek Village, the influenced by the local seasonal produce. breakfast menu features a range of delicious Combined with spectacular views, this is homemade and locally grown produce. a truly memorable dining experience. The restaurant is open for lunch 5 days a week. Broke Rd & Ekerts Rd, Pokolbin 02 4998 7233 310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin 02 4998 7449

PagePage A 8 || | Page 9 Hunter Valley Balloon Fiesta Hunter Valley Olive Co. Each year in September/October, the Established in 2006, the Hunter Valley Olive 5 Happenings annual Balloon Aloft Hunter Valley Fiesta 5 Local Produce Co. produces high quality extra virgin olive oils, takes place over the skies of the Hunter vinegars and condiments. Stocked in local green Valley in an amazing display of colour Favourites grocers, butchers, gourmet delis and IGAs around and excitement. Each day, up to 25 hot air the area, you can also taste their products at Hunter Valley Wine & Food balloons take to the skies. Whether you their tasting room at theThe Ben Ean Winery in Festival join in the fun as a passenger or watch Pokolbin. An annual, much-anticipated wine and food the display from the ground, it’s a truly Binnorie Dairy 119 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin event that showcases the region’s diverse memorable experience. Binnorie is a must stop for lovers of soft 02 6547 1055 wine and food culture. Two months of www.balloonaloft.com/locations/hunter- cheese. Located in Lovedale, they have just moved to spacious new premises themed activities are held throughout May valley/balloon-fiesta Amber Drop Honey and June, providing visitors with the chance encompassing cheese making facilities What started as a hobby grew into a sweet to wine and dine with leading winemakers and a bespoke tasting experience space. business! A few years ago, couple Ana and Sven and chefs, get involved in interactive cooking You can drop in, sit down or linger as long decided to help the local population with classes, and enjoy all that the Hunter Valley as you like. With a range of meats, dessert a few hives in their backyard. Today they have has to offer during the cooler months. liquor and coffee on the menu (along with 130 colonies and are supplying households www.winecountry.com.au/events/wine- an amazing Binnorie cheese platter), we across the Hunter with seriously good honey and-food-festival think you’ll choose to linger! via several market stalls and stockists. 25 Lodge Road, Lovedale www.amberdrophoney.com.au 02 4998 6660 A Day On The Green Good food, fine wine and great music: A Day On The Green holds regular music Lovedale Long Lunch This relaxed neighbourhood east of Pokolbin festivals featuring headline acts at various is famous for its annual Lovedale Long Lunch, times throughout the year. In the Hunter held in May each year. A weekend celebration Valley, the festival is held at Bimbadgen of food and wine, guests hop on and hop off Estate, located high on a hill in Pokolbin. buses and enjoy wine, food and live music at www.adayonthegreen.com.au the participating wineries. Many guests even get their fancy dress on! The Stick Pastry Kitchen www.lovedalelonglunch.com.au Specialising in exceptional desserts and Donarch Chocolates pastries, the Stick Pastry Kitchen is located Donarch Chocolates is a destination product, within the beautiful Tulloch Wines cellar Markets meaning chocolate lovers come from all over door. They use single origin chocolates and From freshly baked bread, local cheese, olives, to sample and purchase the products. This give their chefs room to get creative, and jams, handmade soaps and more, the Hunter boutique chocolate maker has an eye for the result is a delicious range of goodies Valley holds many regular market stalls. Every detail, which won them two Gold medals at the including savoury menu items like quiche. weekend of the month there’s something Australian Fine Food Awards for their Raspberry The café boasts a spacious interior for a happening including harvest markets, farmers Heart. While you’re in the Hunter, don’t miss comfortable dine-in experience or go outside markets, community markets, plus the well- your chance to experience their top quality to one of the nearby picnic tables to soak in known Handmade In The Hunter Markets. Head chocolates. to the Wine Country website for a full listing. the Hunter Valley views. 49 Maize Street,Tenambit www.winecountry.com.au/events/markets-in- 628 De Beyers Road, Pokolbin 02 4202 9721 the-hunter-valley 02) 4998 6861

PagePage A 10 | | | Page 11 5 Cellar Doors with Outstanding Reds

De iuliis Wines De iuliis Wines is a family owned and operated business. Their fresh approach to creating wines truly expressive of the Hunter Valley began in the 1990s and today they are recognised as one of the region’s top producers. The secret to success is in the attention to detail paired with a modern, small-batch approach to . Stand-out wine: De iuliis sought to create a fun, early drinking style of wine. In what is largely Shiraz Expert tip While you’re visiting the cellar door, take territory, this light bodied red shines. It has a advantage of the Two Fat Blokes Gourmet soft mouth feel of fine-grained tannins, ripe Kitchen, which is an on-site Euro-deli/café with plums and blackberries, and is made to be great casual lunches or coffee and sweets. enjoyed young.

Cost EXCLUSIVE OFFER Wine tastings are complimentary for smaller If you mention this travel guide when groups. There is a $5 tasting fee for groups visiting the cellar door, not only will you get of 10 or more which is redeemable upon a complimentary tasting, but you’ll also get purchase. Many wines are exclusive to their a free bottle of wine when buying a dozen cellar door and visitors have the opportunity on the day! to broaden their tasting experience with gourmet cheese boards (for an additional fee). Bookings are essential for groups of 10 1616 Broke Road, Pokolbin people or more. 02 4993 8000 www.dewine.com.au

PagePage A 12 | | | Page 13 Boutique, family run winery

comprehensive wine experience when Tulloch Wines you visit. Tastings are complimentary For over four generations and 122 years, wine experiences on offer. Groups are Tulloch has been crafting classic and welcome but by appointment only. emerging wine styles. Christina Tulloch who Tintilla Wines Cost is the great granddaughter of the original Expert tip Wine tastings are complimentary and Tintilla founder is CEO of the winery and the family’s The cellar door has many different quirky If you’re looking for a boutique cellar door is open seven days a week. passion for premium, hand crafted wines has wine experiences available. For instance, food and wine experience in the Hunter won them many fans. why not try the Mystery Wine Tour ($35 per Valley, this thoughtfully run family vineyard, Expert tip person) where you and your friends have fun winery and olive grove should be on your If you visit the cellar door, be sure to ask if Stand-out wine: while you try to figure out what the six wines list. The wines reflect the traditions of the they have any Angus Semillon or Reserve Hector Limited Release Shiraz 2014 that are being served are - this experience with the tastes and flexibility of the Shiraz. Recent vintages have all picked up This is Tulloch’s flagship wine and it’s only comes with a scrumptious charcuterie board! new, and the wholesome family warmth you’ll some impressive gongs. made in exceptional vintages in very limited experience when you visit the cellar door is quantities. Crafted from premium Hunter Valley fruit that is sourced from some of the what keeps people returning time after time. EXCLUSIVE OFFER EXCLUSIVE OFFER area’s most historic vineyards, the Hector is Upon showing this travel guide, get 20% Stand-out wine: Saphira Get a scrumptious cheese & meat platter, a typical expression of the famed elegant off purchases/orders of 6 bottles or more Harvested in the early morning, the result and wine tasting of up to 8 wines, for only Hunter Valley Shiraz style. It displays firm, on the day of your tasting. is a medium bodied and firm Sangiovese $20 (for two people) upon showing this velvety tannins layered over blackcurrant with an elegant palate of cherries, plums, travel guide! and plum flavours with integrated oak giving violets, savoury cranberries and earth the wine great structure and length. Corner of McDonalds & DeBeyers Road, characters. It will pair wonderfully with 725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin Polkolbin roasts and gamey meals. Cost 02 6574 7093 Tulloch have won the Cellar Door of 02 4998 7580 www.tintilla.com.au the Year Award twice, so expect a tullochwines.com

Page 14 | | Page 15 Pepper Tree Wines Expert tip Quality Hunter Valley wines don’t get much Pepper Tree Wines was founded almost 30 better than this. Pepper Tree is one of the years ago with a focus on grapes from the most awarded boutique wineries in Australia Hunter Valley. Today they also produce wines amassing a show record out of all proportion from three other prized regions and their to its size, and James Halliday has rated state of the art 1,000 tonne winery produces them 5 Red Stars eight years running. up to 55,000 cases of wine annually. Gwyn Olsen, head winemaker, has won awards for the quality of her wines as well as Gourmet EXCLUSIVE OFFER Traveller WINE, Young Winemaker Medal and Get a free bottle of wine when you order Rising Star of the Year award at the Hunter a dozen wines at the cellar door upon Valley Legends Awards. showing this travel guide! European vibes Stand-out wine: Block 21A Single Vineyard 86 Halls road, Pokolbin Drawing on fruit from their best Cabernet 1800 655 965 vineyard in the Wrattonbully region, this www.peppertreewines.com.au single block Cabernet Sauvignon boasts big, bold flavours of sweet, ripe berry fruits balanced by French oak. Technically it’s not a Hunter Valley red, but if you won’t tell, neither will we! It’s superb. Cost Iron Gate Estate Complimentary wine tastings are available Cost Boutique, family-run Iron Gate Estate seven days a week as well as personalised The cellar door offers complimentary winery is inspired by the great winemaking group tasting experiences on the verandah tastings. On weekends, there is also the traditions of . They produce unique, (bookings essential). option of The Vault; a structured tasting handcrafted site-specific wines that capture of single vineyard, premium and museum the essence of the Hunter Valley. Pass Expert tip release wines – from $10 per tasting, through the iconic gates at the entrance Iron Gate Estate’s plantings are extensive redeemable on purchase. and you’ll be transported to the great wine and include Semillon, , , regions of Europe. No expense has been Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz as well as some spared on the striking cellar door, which more exotic styles. is reminiscent of the grand villas of the Mediterranean. EXCLUSIVE OFFER Upon showing this guide during your cellar Stand-out wine: Sweet Shiraz Iron Gate Estate’s unusual Sweet Shiraz is door visit, you get a 10% discount AND a one their most popular wines. Designed to free bottle when you buy a dozen. be served cold alongside a range of dishes, it’s a beautiful accompaniment to spicy beef Corner of Ingles Lane & Oakey Creek Road, dishes like Mexican or Indian curry, or with Pokolbin desserts featuring chocolate. 02 4998 6570 www.irongateestate.com

PagePage A 16 | | | Page 17 5 Cellar Doors with Outstanding Whites

Briar Ridge Cost Briar Ridge’s cellar door is open seven days Briar Ridge is a 5 star winery nestled in a week for complimentary wine tastings. the Mount View area of the Hunter Valley. There are also locally sourced tasting They are one of the leading producers of platters that can be enjoyed on a beautiful iconic Hunter Valley wines and have been deck overlooking tranquil gardens. Groups awarded numerous accolades on both the are welcome by appointment. National and International Wine Show Circuit. With Chief Winemaker Gwyn Olsen leading Expert tip production, their wines have been gaining Cheeky pooch alert! Watch out for Saffy and worldwide acclaim. Ernest when you visit. The furry duo will try to distract you with their cuteness and then Stand-out wine: steal your cheese. Classic Hunter Valley Semillon If you’re keen to try the Hunter Valley’s iconic Semillon, Briar Ridge excels at this EXCLUSIVE OFFER varietal. You can choose from their elegant Get 10% off all wine purchases in the cellar Dairy Hill Single Vineyard Semillons or the door when you show this guide! Stockhausen Signature Semillons, as well as Early Harvest vintages. With intensely flavoured palates and great length, these 593 Mount View Rd, Mount View classic Semillon will grow in complexity with 02 4990 3670 further bottle age. www.briarridge.com.au

PagePage A 18 | | | Page 19 Margan Wines Expert tip Visitors don’t just come to Margan for the Located in the picturesque Broke Fordwich wines. The Margan Restaurant is regarded as region of the Hunter Valley, Margan Wines acclaimed agri-dining at its finest and they is an award winning, family owned winery pioneered the Kitchen Garden concept in producing estate grown and estate made the region. wines. Rated 5 Red stars by James Halliday for the last 9 years, they have also been awarded Hall of Fame for Best Winery at the 1238 Milbrodale Road, Broke NSW & Hunter Tourism Awards and Hunter 02 6579 1317 Cellar Door of the Year in 2018. www.margan.com.au Stand-out wine: Aged Release Semillon The Aged Release Semillon has been made in a very pure style to reflect the traditions of the . With a palate of lemon pith, grapefruit, flint and lime sorbet, it is only released 5 years after bottling, which gives it a wealth of complex flavours and a never- Tyrrell’s Wines Cost ending finish. Complimentary wine tastings (for all wines Cost Established in 1858 by English immigrant up to but not including Winemaker’s Edward Tyrrell, Tyrrell’s Wines is one of Margan offer a range of tasting and tour Selection range) are available seven days a experiences. Their striking Cellar Door Australia’s pre-eminent family-owned wine week. companies. Headed by fourth generation is open 7 days a week and provides the family member Bruce Tyrrell, and fifth Expert tip ideal setting for a unique food and wine generation Jane, John and Chris Tyrrell, they As well as sampling award-winning wines, experience. Tastings are $10 per person have produced some of Australia’s most visitors to the historic Tyrrell’s winery can see redeemable on purchase. awarded wines and have won over 5,000 the original iron bark hut that Edward Tyrrell trophies and medals. lived in and the Short Flat Vineyard, home of Australia’s most awarded white wine, Vat 1 Stand-out wine: Winemaker’s Semillon, with its vines first planted in 1923. Selection Vat 47 Hunter Chardonnay This flagship wine is made only in small volumes and produced using the best 1838 Broke Road, Pokolbin parcels of fruit from top vineyards. It’s a more 1800 045 501 delicate and textural Chardonnay that is a www.tyrrells.com.au more modern take on this famous style. The palate has the generosity of Chardonnay in a toned down form and the fruit is balanced with fresh acidity.

Page 20 | | Page 21 Brokenwood Wines Fun fact Brokenwood was founded by a trio of Established in 1970, 5 Red Star winery Sydney-based solicitors, who paid a then Brokenwood Wines is one of Australia’s most record price of $970 per acre for a 10-acre premium wine labels and a must-visit in block in the foothills of the Brokenback Crowned world’s the Hunter Valley. It’s home to the famous Ranges. The original block was destined to Graveyard Vineyard Shiraz, the highly be a cricket ground for the local community best winemaker acclaimed ILR Reserve Semillon, and the but was instead planted with Cabernet popular Cricket Pitch range. Sauvignon and Shiraz, which would later Stand-out wine: Late Picked Semillon form the basis of their Cricket Pitch range. The fruit is allowed to get a bit riper and then the fermentation is stopped when there EXCLUSIVE OFFER is a perfect balance between acid, sugar Upon mentioning this guide when and alcohol. The Late Picked Semillon is an visiting, if you buy three or more bottles excellent example with a palate of tropical in Brokenwood’s Cellar Door, receive a fruits balanced by fresh apple acidity that complimentary bottle of Cricket Pitch. runs through to the finish. Cost The cellar door is open seven days a week 401-427 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin and club members enjoy complimentary 02 4998 7559 tastings. Tastings for non-members are $5 www.brokenwood.com.au for the Varietal range and $25 for the Single Vineyard Range. Groups of more than 8 McGuigan Wines Cost people require a booking. The cellar door is open 7 days a week and The McGuigan name is synonymous with the friendly staff will guide you through a Hunter Valley wine. Crowned International complimentary tasting of the wines. Private Winemaker of the Year at the prestigious group bookings can be arranged at a cost of International Wine & Spirits Competition in $5 per person. Winery tours are also available London a record four times, this is a world and require a booking. first achievement and they are proud of their reputation of one of the most awarded Expert tip wineries in the world. McGuigan Wines now operates out of three core regions: the Hunter Valley, Sunraysia Stand-out wine: and the . Be sure to check out McGuigan Shortlist Riesling their wines from other top regions such as Although not made from Hunter Valley fruit, the Hills, Eden and Clare Valleys. the McGuigan Shortlist Riesling is a perfect example of iconic Eden Valley Riesling. Fresh and crisp with lime and floral flavours it has a Corner of Broke and McDonald Roads, nice intensity and great length. Pokolbin 02 4998 4111 www.mcguiganwines.com.au

PagePage A 22 | | | Page 23 Expert tip Visit between 10.30am and 2.30pm to enjoy 3 Quirky Salumi and Cheese, a charcuterie platter that has almost cult status – try it, and you’ll Cellar Doors see why!

Usher Tinkler EXCLUSIVE OFFER Upon mentioning this travel guide, enjoy Usher Tinkler is one of Australia’s most the tasting complimentary! dynamic young winemakers, crafting wines that blur the lines between traditional and contemporary winemaking. You can taste 97 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin the range of authentic yet adventurous 02 4998 7069 wines in the old Pokolbin Church. Built in www.ushertinklerwines.com 1905, it has been renovated extensively to showcase the brand. Cost There is a $5 wine tasting fee per person redeemable on any wine purchase. Bookings are highly recommended, and it’s worth noting the cellar door does not accept groups that exceed 10 people.

Piggs Peake Winery Cost Tastings are available 7 days a week. In their own words, Piggs Peake Winery describes itself as a ‘silly place.’ With a Expert tip background in Chemical Engineering, The cellar door at Piggs Peake can get very Steve Langham produces wines that have busy so it’s recommended to ring ahead and a reputation for bending and twisting the check when the best time is to drop by. rules of winemaking. While they produce Set in an superb examples of classic varieties, you’ll also get to experience styles you least 697 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin old church expect including Orange Zinfandel and Pig 02 6574 7000 Juice! It’s not uncommon during tastings to piggspeake.com hear others use words like Heston and Willy Wonka to describe the experience.

PagePage A 24 | | | Page 25 5 Other Drink Destinations

Hope Estate Brewery Longstanding Hunter winery Hope Estate also has a brewery, contained at the back of the extensive main building with a German bierkellar style seating area overlooking the brewing equipment. They produce a range of German, American and Australian style beers including a Gluten Free Pilsner and their standout India Red Ale. 2213 Broke Road, Pokolbin Scarborough Wine Co. 02 4993 3555 Scarborough Wine Co. is a family owned and operated boutique Hunter Valley winery. Founded by Ian and Merralea, Ian spent his early years working for famous wineries such as Saltram and Tulloch before establishing his own vineyards. Today his son Jerome is making his own way in the family business with his ‘Offshoot Range’ that explores exciting varieties such as Vermentino, Rosé and more. Cost The Scarborough Wine Co. currently has two cellar doors where tastings of the ‘Offshoot Range’ are complimentary. Fun fact When Scarborough first opened their cellar door in 1990 they were effectively inviting people into a room in their own home.

The tagline ‘Our Home. Your Wine’ was INSTAGRAM CREDIT: PHOTO developed and the philosophy behind it has stuck with the brand all these years later. 179 Gillards Road, Pokolbin or Today visitors to either of the two cellar 972 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin doors get to experience a warm welcome 02 4998 7563 and a seat at the table to taste the wines. www.scarboroughwine.com.au

PagePage A 26 | | | Page 27 Sydney Brewery plus Morpeth Brewery Lovedale Brewery & Beer Co In the quaint village of Morpeth the large Brewed lovingly by hand in small batches, traditional hotel with a separate bar serves the Sydney Brewery produces seven different the whole Morpeth range of beers. Many styles of beer designed to epitomise the local are English style and there is a permanent style, people and personality of the Hunter Engine Bar that serves two of the beers on Valley. You can taste the beers at the Crowne traditional English hand pumps. They also Plaza, just next door to The Lovedale Bar and offer a tasting paddle. The brewery itself is in Restaurant. one of the small rooms of the pub with tours 430 Wine country Drive, Lovedale conducted weekly on a Saturday at 12pm. 02 4991 0000 127 Swan Street, Morpeth 02 4934 5316

5 Non-Wine Related Things To Do

Pokolbin Cider House Located in the heart of the Hunter Valley, Pokolbin Cider House produces a wide Hunter Distillery range of ciders with a winemaking twist. The Hunter Distillery is the only locally From classic Apple Cider to Raspberry & owned and operated distillery in the Hunter Cranberry, Perry (Pear) and Passionfruit region. They use premium quality organic Perry, their ciders are luscious, fruity and raw ingredients to produce an exceptional fresh. You’ll find their ciders on the drinks range of top shelf spirits including gin, vodka, list at the Blaxland Inn, Restaurant Cuvee liqueurs and schnapps. You can visit 7 days and at their tasting room open every a week and tastings are $5 per person. Ask Saturday and Sunday at Lambloch Estate about the unique test tube tasting experience. (as well as online). 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin www.pokolbinciderhouse.com.au 02 4998 6737

PagePage A 28 | | | Page 29 Giddy up Treat yourself Gander the gardens Enjoy the spectacular views and country A trip to the Hunter Valley doesn’t need Soak up nature at its most stunning at fresh air of this stunning region by saddling to be action-packed. Instead why not take the Hunter Valley Gardens where you will up, or – if you’d like to be a bit more relaxed the opportunity to relax, rejuvenate and find over 6,000 trees and 60,000 shrubs, – from the comfort of a horse drawn carriage. recuperate at The Spa at Chateau Elan. waterfalls, statues, murals and more. They Hunter Valley Horses offer options for all With 17 beautifully appointed treatment regularly hold events that are renowned types of riders, from beginners to advanced, rooms, this exquisite spa retreat offers a full across the region including Snow Time as well as family tours so you can enjoy the range of treatments and beauty rituals in in the Gardens, Christmas lights and the experience with the little ones. an award-winning, luxurious setting. spring Festival of the Flowers, making it a www.huntervalleycarriages.com.au www.chateauelan.com.au great place for adults and kids alike. www.huntervalleygardens.com.au

Go wild in the zoo The Hunter Valley is a great destination for families. It features furbabies and exotic animals in a beautifully laid out environment that sits in the middle of Wine Country. There’s plenty of picnic spots so you can make a day of it, and the zoo is also a popular place for kids parties and celebrations. Experience Hunter from up in the air www.huntervalleyzoo.com.au Multi-award winning Balloon Aloft has been offering Hunter Valley balloon flights for over thirty-five years. With balloon flights beginning at sunrise to take in the picturesque views of the nearby wine regions, they cater for individuals, corporate groups and special occasions. www.balloonaloft.com/locations/hunter-valley

PagePage A 30 | | | Page 31 Pokolbin There’s a lot happening in Pokolbin, it will be hard to decide where to start. As the oldest continuous wine region in Australia with a history dating back to the early 1800s, 5 Towns & Pokolbin is the place to taste wines from some of the oldest vines in the country. It Villages to Visit has plentiful accommodation and an array of dining options from fine food to relaxed cafes. There’s also day spas, breweries, several top golf courses and the state’s most highly regarded exhibition gardens.

Lovedale Lovedale is a relaxed oasis to the east of Pokolbin that boasts rambling vineyards and sweeping pastures, often full of kangaroos and wallabies. Famous for the Lovedale Long Lunch, the area is lined with tasty eateries and small, boutique cellar doors. It’s an artist’s haven with plenty of galleries to explore, plus you can also enjoy horse riding and hot air ballooning.

PagePage A 32 | | | Page 33 Cessnock Cessnock is a lively country town located only 6km from the vineyards. It is Wine Country’s hub for business and shopping, and the place to go for all your essentials. It has one of the longest main streets in Australia, boasting a 5x Practical Websites streetscape of historical buildings and grand old pubs. There’s plenty of food options on offer winecountry.com.au from Italian, Indian, Thai and sushi, to traditional Winecountry.com is designed to make a visit to the Hunter Valley bakeries. If you have time you can also browse memorable. With comprehensive information on the wineries, restaurants the well-respected art gallery, as well as fashion and cafés, where to stay, upcoming events, places to explore and even and gift stores. where to hold your wedding or a conference, everything you need to know about this famous region is at your fingertips. hunterhunter.com.au Rothbury For all the inside information on wineries, restaurants, accommodation and Rothbury is just 10km from Cessnock and things to do, hunterhunter.com.au is presented in an editorial format so a perfect location for a mid-week break, you can enjoy exploring the range of things the Hunter Valley has to offer. romantic weekend or golf trip. The area is dotted with a range of cellar doors and the huntervalleystays.com.au region is known for producing fine olive If you’d prefer not to stay at a hotel, Huntervalleystays.com.au are premier oils, too. Whether you’d prefer to stay in providers of high quality, self-contained accommodation in the Hunter a guesthouse, homestead, cottage or spa Valley. They have a range of properties available for your next visit and the resort where you can play golf, Rothbury has hardest part will be deciding which one! something for everyone including great food and dining experiences. It’s also a great base handmadehuntermarkets.com.au to ride a bicycle between the wineries. This site has everything you need to know about one of the Hunter’s most charming country markets, which is held in the picturesque grounds of award-winning Kevin Sobels Wines in Pokolbin. You’ll find upcoming dates as well as stallholder information so you can be sure you make the most of Singleton the 50 stallholders who attend each market. Founded on the banks of the Hunter River in 1820, Singleton is a proud old mining town cellarmasters.com.au Sold on Hunter Valley wine? Cellarmasters has an extensive range of wines that is a delightful mix of old and new. Visitors from this iconic wine region that we can have delivered straight to your to the town can see historic buildings, fine front door. old mansions, and museums as well as the picturesque river. In between wine tastings, you can enjoy a meal at one of the grand old pubs or visit a bustling farmers market.

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