Do I have to book wine tasting in the Hunter Valley?

The Hunter Valley, alongside the Barossa and Coonawarra, is one of Australia’s most renowned wine regions.

The Hunter Valley is famed for its Cabernets, Chardonnays, Semillons and Shirazs, and wine tasting experiences are a must for anyone who likes a fine drop or just a really fine time.

As of 17 July, 2021, government restrictions are reinstated, meaning the Hunter Valley’s wineries must adhere to the one person per four metre rule. Be sure to book ahead to save yourself from heading out to the Valley without the opportunity to try some of its finest vintages, as bookings are now essential to surpass their cellar doors!

Okay, so now that we’ve got the unpleasantries out of the way, let’s get back to the wine, all that glorious, bubbly, juicy vino that makes the Hunter Valley one of Australia’s (and the whole wide world’s) top wine regions!

Be sure to book ahead for these legendary wineries…

McGuigan Wines

You know that if a winery wins the International Wine and Spirits Competition’s “International Wine Maker of the Year” award *almost* three years in a row then it must be pretty good. Well, McGuigan Wines is that winery, having taken out the honour in 2009, 2011, and 2012 (and once again in 2016 for good measure).

The winery is beloved for its wonderful cellar door experience, where seasoned professionals talk you through their tantalising varieties of Merlot, Semilon and Shiraz.

Savannah Estate

Another beautiful property serving up the very best of the Valley’s wine, Savannah Estate is renowned for its wonderful Chardonnay, Shiraz and Semillon, perfectly paired with some delightful cheese options!

Gartelmann Wines

Gartelmann Wines is a smaller producer, with its wines not making the shelves of every BWS and Dan Murphy’s across the country, but the cellar door is a delightful, family-run experience that visitors always enjoy.

Husband/wife duo Jan and Jorg Gartelmann will talk you through their superb drops, with everything from Semilon, Shiraz, Merlot and Chardonnay on the tasting menu.

Iron Gate Estate

Iron Gate Estate is one of Australia’s most beautiful wineries, hands down! This Napa-style estate was revamped in 2018 and produces some of the country’s very best Chardonnay and Shiraz. The Spanish-style villa is the perfect backdrop to an incredible cellar door experience that combines fine wine with gorgeous surroundings.

Related article: Which is the Best Hunter Valley Wine Tour?