Scarborough Wines
Scarborough Wines’ slogan says it all: our home, your wine. This family-run winery is sure to make you feel right at home (if your home was a beautiful winery with incredible views). Founded by Ian (Scarbie) Scarborough, Scarborough Wines is famous for its Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Shiraz. The staff here are friendly and approachable, giving great wine suggestions based on your preferences.
There is only one true way to experience Scarborough Wine – order a sit-down tasting (with a complimentary cheese platter, of course) and sit back and enjoy the breathtaking 360° views of the Brokenback Mountain Ranges and vibrant vineyard. Scarborough Wines is also a photographer’s delight in autumn thanks to the vine leaves turning a striking orange-red hue.
We recommend: The Classic Tasting – sample 10 wines with a complimentary cheese platter for $5pp (fully re-fundable with any purchase).
Pepper Tree Wines
Pepper Tree Wines is a must-visit during autumn. With truly stunning gardens surrounding a rustic timber building, it’s the perfect location to admire the auburn leaves as autumn rolls in. Most famous for its Semillon and Shiraz, Pepper Tree Wines has been labelled a 5-star winery on the James Halliday Australian Wine Companion, many times.
Want to bring your pooch along? At the end of august, Pepper Tree Wines host an annual “Pooch Picnic” with music and plenty of entertainment for kids and of course, pooches.
We recommend: Cross the carpark and visit the well-renowned Circa 1876 restaurant where you can enjoy Pepper Tree Wines and delicious food while watching kangaroos hop by.
Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard
While the name may have already given it away, Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard produces certified organic wines from their organic, holistic and sustainable vineyard. Their aim is to produce wine that tastes of where it’s grown, so no herbicides, pesticides or chemical sprays. Their equally impressive grounds are French-inspired with their cellar door set amongst charming provincial gardens.
We recommend: Try the dry French-style Rosé or the unique Basket Press wines.
Audrey Wilkinson Winery
No visit to the Hunter Valley is complete without stopping at Audrey Wilkinson Winery. Founded in 1866, Aurdrey Wilkinson Winery is one of the oldest vineyards in Australia, consistently producing award-winning wines. While you’re here, enjoy incredible 360° views over the 109-hector vineyard and the Brokenback Mountain Ranges. Enjoy a tasting at the cellar door and admire the rolling vineyards in all their autumn glory or order a ‘Picnic in the vines” and nestle yourself amongst them. There is even a museum on site where you can learn all about Audrey Wilkinson and how he took over running the vineyard at just age 15.
We recommend: Don’t miss the award-winning Hunter Semillions (given a 5-star rating by Australian wine critic James Halliday).
Brokenwood Wines
Brokenwood Wines may be a household name, but have you ever visited the winery where it all began? As one of Australia’s most reputable wines, the standards are set high, but you definitely won’t be disappointed. Famous for its Chardonnay, there is no way you can visit without trying a glass. Brokenwood Wines can get very busy during peak season so visiting in autumn means you can take your time to enjoy your tasting with uninterrupted views of the vast vineyard.
We recommend: The Graveyard Block Shiraz, Semillon and of course, the Chardonnay.
Top tip: Just opposite Brokenwood Wines is the Small Winemakers Centre. This is where smaller wineries who don’t have a cellar door showcase and sell their wines. It’s a great opportunity to try wines you may not find anywhere else.
Now you know the top wineries to visit in the Hunter Valley this autumn, all that’s left to do is book your accommodation!
