A few hours north of Sydney lies a food and wine fans paradise, the Hunter Valley wine region. Since its beginnings from the early pioneering era, the Hunter Valley has produced many world-famous fine wines. It has over 150 wineries. From visiting the well-known vineyards, to the boutique cellar door experiences, a day spent wine-tasting in the Hunter Valley is a day well spent.
When you travel to the Hunter Valley on an AAT Kings Day Tour, you will be picked up in the morning, taken to three of the region’s best wineries, and dropped safely back home to your hotel door in the heart of the city. No need to pay for costly accommodation or worry about driving when you are being tempted by award winning wines.
If you find a wine you love, or some local gourmet delights, there is no shortage of storage room on the coach. So don’t be shy if you want to stock up.
The drive through Sydney’s Northern Suburbs and Central Coast and then into the luscious countryside of the Hunter region provides some amazing scenery. There is nothing better than escaping to the countryside. And appreciating the scenery and wildlife that can be spotted along the way.
First up on the Hunter Valley Harvest Wine Experience is Leogate Estate Wines. An established vineyard with its winning grapes being Shiraz, Tempranillo, Chardonnay, Semillon and Verdelho. The impressive cast iron steel gates topped with a grand lion statue greet you on your way into the rich surrounds. The estate is located at the foot of the Brokenback Range. Stop here for an hour as you join a behind the scenes tour and learn about the wine-making process from within the factory. After the tour, it is of course time for your first wine tasting with an amazing view.
INSPIRED? AAT Kings offers a range of Australian tours. See GrownUps Holidays.
Next it’s off to walk amongst the vines of Hunter Valley Resort, the picture-perfect photo opportunity!
Hunter Valley Resort’s cellar door showcases 30 wines from seven local producers. Nowhere in the region can you try so many wines under the one roof! With an evolving wine list, you can be certain you will find something you will love here. Once you have sipped as many wines as you please. It is time to enjoy a delectable lunch made with local produce as you get to know your fellow travellers and appreciate the gorgeous scenery.
Did you know that since ancient times, olives and vines have been planted together as they enjoy the same growing conditions? Olives and wine, a match made in heaven it seems! Nestled amongst the lush vines is the last winery of the day, Tintilla Estate. A family run vineyard and olive grove that appeals to both wine and food lovers alike. You will take a seat on the deck that overlooks the vineyard. During your wine tasting, you will also taste the delectable olives. These are handpicked, debittered and fermented by the family. You will have plenty of time to browse the selection of olive oils, vinegar, and conserves for sale.
Last stop is Roche Estate, home to the renowned Smelly Cheese Shop, Tempus Two Wines Cellar Door, and shops offering coffee, gelato and craft beer to finish the day.
Visiting the Hunter Valley region is an absolute must for both food and wine lovers.
Article in partnership with AAT Kings. AAT Kings offers immersive food and wine tours for people who want to explore the many tastes of South Australia. For more information and to book AAT Kings, see GrownUps Holidays.
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