A trip to the Hunter Valley can be overwhelming if you don’t do your research beforehand. In a region as magical as the wine country of New South Wales, there’s ought to be countless wineries to get tipsy at to explore, delicious fresh produce to try and cheese, cheese, cheese. But never fear! I’ve put together an itinerary to ensure that whether you’re spending a couple days in the Hunter Valley or just making a day trip, you leave feeling satisfied that you’ve been introduced to the best of what the region has to offer!
Eat
“There is no sincere love than the love of food.”
MUSE DINING
Hungerford Hill Winery
Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
Let’s start this blog off on high, shall we? According to locals and food critics, you can’t eat much better than at Muse. This restaurant is consistently dubbed one of the best in the Hunter Valley area which is evident as it has 1 Chef Hat. It features a uniquely Australian menu with contemporary dishes that are dialled back to showcase the simplicity of good food. For dessert, don’t look any further than the Muse Coconut, a dark chocolate shell covers a delectably sweet coconut cloud mousse that sits on a bed of light as air shaved coconut.
CAFE ENZO
15 Thompsons Rd
Pokolbin NSW 2320
Where do you go for breakfast, you ask? If the crowds that form outside this picturesque cafe are any indication, then it’s straight to Cafe Enzo. Here they dish up everything you’d expect to find in a high-end cafe but pair that with their use of locally fresh produce and you’ve found your favourite breakfast place in the region.
COCOA NIB
Drink
” The first taste of a wine is like a first kiss: you look forward to the second.”
AUDREY WILKINSON
750 De Beyers Rd
Pokolbin NSW 2320
Time and time again, Audrey Wilkinson comes out on top as the prettiest winery in the Hunter Valley, and who could argue with that really? Their cellar door holds a cozy homestead vibe that looks out on to manicured gardens and a gorgeous valley. So yes, this is the moment where you whip out your phone and take a million selfies for Instagram. No ones gonna blame you, trust me. Of course, when you’re here it’s worth a try of the Hunter’s famed semillion but Audrey Wilkinson’s Lion Share Shiraz is also a top contender.
TULLOCH WINES
638 De Beyers Rd
Pokolbin NSW 2320
The Tulloch family has been at the forefront of Hunter Valley wines for over 144 years so you can safely assume that they’ve mastered their trade. You can experience this artistry at their cellar door where they cater to all types of guests whether it’s your first wine tasting or you consider yourself a connoisseur. Take comfort in the fact that they have been twice awarded Best Cellar Door.
MCGUIGAN WINES
Corner of Broke &, McDonalds Rd
Pokolbin NSW 2320
Another family owned winery, the history of McGuigan spans over four generations which is apparent by the beautiful space of their cellar door and informative tours that suggest that they too have mastered their art. The cosy space is home to Hunter’s specialty semillion and shiraz varietals and you can even join a daily tour starting at 12pm (you’ll need to book in advance) and learn how the process behind the tasteful wines they bottle.
CHEESE
“Life is great, cheese makes it better.”
THE SMELLY CHEESE SHOP
2144 Broke Rd
Pokolbin NSW 2320
What’s a visit to the Hunter Valley without a stop at the Smelly Cheese Shop? This institution has quickly become one of the standout attractions in the Hunter Valley, as the perfect accompaniment to its best friend; wine. The Smelly Cheese Shop is a providore who import only the finest cheeses you’ll find from around the world, including their own delectable range. Here you can buy the specialty cheese Al Matlo D’ Orzo E Whiskey or sit down and enjoy a tasting platter.
HUNTER VALLEY CHEESE FACTORY
447 McDonalds Rd
Pokolbin NSW 2320
This cheese factory has its own on-site tasting room where you can try out all their cheese-y delights till your heart’s content. Cheese samples are available all day so no matter what time you get there, you’ll have the chance to try some fabulous cheese. Try a tasting platter that comes with a variety of accompanients such as pate, olives, and gourmet crackers.
Read the Hunter Valley Cheese Tasting Guide: https://huntervalleytoursydney.com.au/blog/hunter-valley-cheese-tasting-guide/
SIGHTSEEING TOURS AUSTRALIA
Are you hungry yet? If you find yourself in the Hunter Valley anytime soon, hop on a tour with companies like Sightseeing Tours Australia or Hunter Valley Tours Sydney who will take you to some of the best wineries in the region for delectable tastings, as well as a distillery for some flavoured vodka! If you’re more intersted in the food side of things, they also will take you on a foodie journey for chocolate and fudge tastings and scrumptious gourmet lunches!
Link to their websites:
https://sightseeingtoursaustralia.com.au/australian-tours/sydney/hunter-valley/
https://huntervalleytoursydney.com.au/
