Hunter Valley
The Ultimate Getaway: Hunter Valley Edition
Located only two hours from Sydney, the picturesque Hunter Valley is an internationally renowned wine producing region best known for its fine semillons and shiraz. With over 140 wineries to visit, wine tasting at the Hunter is perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway. Encore Cars offers private tours so you can comfortably enjoy your day trip to the Hunter and explore at your own pace. Here are five of the best boutique wineries to get you started on discovering this amazing region:
Audrey Wilkinson
With incredible 360 degree views of the Hunter’s hillsides and groves, Audrey Wilkinson’s Winery is a must-visit vineyard for all tourists. One of the oldest wineries in the Hunter, Audrey Wilkinson has been consistently rated as a 5-star winery known for its founder’s mantra of “it’s all about the taste”. The winery’s signature vintage is their crisp and refreshing Rosé as well as their premium quality reserve Shiraz.
Audrey Wilkinson, DeBeyers Road, Pokolbin 2320 www.audreywilkinson.com.au
Brokenwood
Visit Brokenwood for its famous Graveyard Shiraz, a complex, and full-bodied wine that is characteristic of the exquisite shiraz wines from this region. Brokenwood has an extensive collection of quality wines for you to try and also offers a behind-the-scenes tour for those who want to learn more about their production processes.
Brokenwood, 401-427 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin 2320 www.brokenwood.com.au
David Hook
Another essential stop, David Hook has earned rave reviews from top sommeliers and restaurateurs due to its consistently top-notch quality wines. Hidden away in a shady and charming courtyard at Peppers Creek, David Hook’s rustic décor is not unlike a winery typical of regional France. Savour the popular Sauvignon Blanc with its fresh and fruity finish and for reds, try Barbera which is exceptionally balanced and has a soft finish.
David Hook, Cnr Broke and Ekerts roads, Pokolbin 2320 www.davidhookwines.com.au
Meerea Park
Meerea Park is owned by brothers Rhys and Garth Eather, who continue their family tradition of wine producing with an innovative twist. Calling themselves ‘terroirists’, the brothers have snapped up many awards for their wines, each featuring quirky names such as ‘Hell Hole’ and ‘XYZ’. Meerea Park’s flagship wine is an earthy shiraz named after their grandfather Alexander Munro.
Meerea Park, 2198 Broke Rd, Pokolbin 2320 http://meereapark.com.au/
Scarborough
The family-run Scarborough is well known for their hospitality and outstanding White and Yellow Label Chardonnay. Scarborough also produces Black Label Shiraz, a traditional red with smooth and earthy flavours that ages particularly well in the cellar. Visitors are able to round off their Hunter Valley trip by sampling the wines with a serving of bread and cheese and tap into the expertise of Scarborough’s wine makers who are always up for a chat.
Scarborough, 179 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin 2320 http://www.scarboroughwine.com.au/