Hunter Valley – Click to Enlarge
Hunter Valley Wine Region – NSW
Arguably the most recognised wine region in New South Wales, the Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s oldest wine regions. Dating back to 1825 when James Busby acquired property between Braxton and Singleton and planted the first vines 5 years later in 1830.
The vineyard was later expanded to 4 hectares in 1834. George Wyndham was the next wine-maker to try plantings in the area in 1830. By 1832 there were 10 small vineyards planted and the future of the Hunter region was set.
During the 1840s the plantings increased from 80 to 200 hectares spread over 50 vineyards. The region hit a peak in 1875 with 1800 hectares of plantings. The next growth cycle wouldn’t begin in earnest again until the 1970s when the region grew to 4200 hectares by 1976. Today it is home to more than 150 cellar doors.
There are three subregions in the Hunter region, Upper Hunter Valley, Broke Fordwich and Pokolbin.
The Upper Hunter centres around Muswellbrook and the lower Hunter, although not strictly defined, centres around Pokolbin, Lovedale and Broke.
Pokolbin has a pretty little town centre in the heart of the main wine region and offers different types of accommodation for that perfect weekend away.
The success of the region’s wine industry has been largely due to its proximity to Sydney. Settlement and plantings in the 19th century were fuelled by the trade network that linked the city to the valley. Steady demand for consumers from Sydney continues to drive much of the region’s industry.
The region is now famous for recognisable brands such as Tyrrell’s, McGuigan and Brokenwood.
Be sure to check out Oakvale, and Gundog Estate for wines of regional distinction.
