Stimulate your taste buds in the vineyards around the Hunter Valley
Hunter Valley is one of the world’s most acclaimed wine-producing regions. It is located in the Australian state of New South Wales. The valley is an extremely popular tourist destination and there are excellent accommodation facilities, plus lots to do and see. It is just an hour and a half drive from Sydney. Making it a great location for a day trip or to stay a night or two in one of the many Hunter Valley Accommodation options available.
In 1797, European settlers accidentally discovered the Hunter River. The area was being searched by Lieutenant John Shortland for escaped prisoners. It quickly became a major supplier of coal and timber to steamships travelling to Sydney and its surrounding areas. By the year 1823, the region now known as Dalwood/Gresford featured 20 acres of vineyards that were planted on the river banks.
Following this, the valley began to flourish as many families turned to wine-making. These included the Wilkinson, Tyrrell and Drayton families, as well as the illustrious Dr Henry Lindeman. Still today, Lindemans wines are known all over the world. Each year they win national and international awards. The intriguing history of this early era can be seen at a number of historical villages and museums in the valley.
The winter months of April to October are the best times to visit Hunter Valley. The days are clear, sunny and cool, while the nights are chilly and crisp. After a busy day of sight-seeing, relax in a hot spa. Then enjoy a drink next to a roaring fire before dining by candlelight with a bottle, or two, of fine local wine.
Wine tours are obviously very popular. This region is best known for its superb Cabernet Sauvignon, Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz wines. Some of the best estates to visit are Pepper’s Creek, Tyrrell’s Vineyards, Lake’s Folly, Wyndham Estate, Lindemans, Rosemount Estate and Farrell’s Wines. Tasting a wine where it was made and chatting to the winemaker is something very special. Three other major estates are McWilliams, Rothbury Estate and Mt Pleasant.
The valley is also noted for its beautiful locally produced foods. The Tinker family, in addition to making wine, grows fantastic seasonal produce that includes avocados, figs, citrus, peaches, table grapes and nectarines. Everything is picked when perfectly ripe to ensure that no flavour is lost. These products can be purchased on site, along with many home-made jams, marmalades, pickles and relishes.
A perfect way to tour the valley is by horse-drawn carriage. Book a tour and relax as you travel through the gorgeous countryside. Spend the day wine-tasting and sampling locally produced chocolates, cheeses, olives and other delightful fare. Those with a more adventurous spirit can take a horse-back riding tour. This is a great way to experience the stunning scenery.
Apart from its wines, Hunter Valley is also noted for an award winning brewery. This is the Hunter Beer Company. For the last three years, it has received 13 bronze medals and 11 silver medals at the Australian International Beer Awards. Feel free to stop in any time and sample the beers, talk to the brewers or enjoy a relaxing Brasserie lunch in the beer garden cooked by fine chefs.
