The Different Types of Wines Produced in the Hunter Region

The Different Types of Wines Produced in the Hunter Region

Written by: Cameron Ward

Published: 11/23/2016

Reading time: 3 mins

The Hunter Valley is well-known as one of Australia’s best wine regions.

Hunter Valley Wines
The Hunter Valley is located amongst scenic, sweeping valleys and sprawling fields.

The historic vineyards create delicious wine flavours that have characterised the region for more than a century. The region itself has been an important part of the historic timeline of Australian wine. In fact, it was one of the very first wine regions to get planted back in the 19th century.

There are plenty of grape varieties and wine flavours created throughout the valley. The varieties include Shiraz, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Verdelho. However, the region’s Semillon is widely considered to be the most iconic!

Its close proximity to the bustling streets of Sydney has made the Hunter Valley so popular. The valley has also been fuelled by tight trade network links with the city.

The different grape varieties in the Hunter Valley

Today, the region’s most common white wine varieties include Chardonnay, Semillon, and Verdelho. The main red wine variety produced here is Shiraz, but you can also find Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

Chardonnay
About 70% of the area is planted with Chardonnay grapes, which are often blended with Semillon to create a unique Hunter Valley flavour. The Chardonnay is recognisable by its rich, oaky flavours that hang with high notes of peaches and cream.

Semillon
Semillon is perhaps the most iconic wine of the Hunter Valley, though. The vines were originally planted in the region way back in 1830. Since then, the vines have been labelled under various names like Hunter Valley Riesling, Shepherd’s Riesling, Rhine Gold, White Burgundy, and Chablis. When it is young, the Semillon of Hunter Valley exudes lemon and grassy notes. In its more mature years, you can expect a richer flavour with heavy biscuit notes.

Verdelho
Verdelho is known for being a refreshing and crisp white wine. This wine was originally produced in Portugal but has made its way to different regions across the globe including the Hunter Valley. This full bodied wine is the perfect refresher on a sunny day in the valley.

Shiraz
Shiraz is another popular tipple produced in the Hunter Valley. The valley boasts some of the oldest rooted Shiraz vines in the world! There are a number of vineyards that host vines older than 120 years. Here, the Shiraz is characterised by its full bodied flavour. When left to sit, it takes on a silky texture with earthy undertones.

Cabernet Sauvignon
The Cabernet of the region is not too dissimilar from the Shiraz. It is commonly very earthy in taste and is often cross-blended with a variety of wines from regions outside of the Hunter Valley.

Merlot
Merlot is another delicious, full bodied wine produced in the Hunter Valley. The tasting notes can vary from plummy to earthy and are rich in flavour.
The Hunter Valley is a must-visit for any wine lover out there!

As well as sampling some of the iconic flavours of the region, you can learn all about the winemaking process and why the Valley has played such an important role in Australia’s wine history.

Visit the Hunter Valley on your own or join a tour for the ultimate wine fix!

Cameron Ward
Cameron Ward
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.