THE GRAPEVINE BLOG

Autumn in the Hunter Valley is a fusion of endless days of sunshine and warmth followed by crispy, clear evenings, the perfect setting to come together over good food and wine with loved ones. A time when wine, food and connection is a focus for the region, come and discover why the Hunter Valley’s reputation for food and wine is second to none. There are so many wine and food events in the region during this time that it can be hard to know where to start. Whether you are travelling with friends, with your family, or with your partner, we have helped unpack some of the events taking place over the next few weeks for you. 

This time of year the Hunter Valley is buzzing with action as harvest and vintage take place across our vineyards and wineries. If you’re visiting the region over the next few weeks you may come across large groups of pickers out at dawn until dusk harvesting this year’s crops, or tractors on the roads transporting tonnes of fruit from the vineyard to be crushed in the winery. Whatever the activity - it usually means vintage and with it, a crop of new whites and reds to enjoy. There is no better time to partake in a behind the scenes winery tour whilst the wineries are in full swing with their work.

The warming weather means refreshing, easy drinking vinos are to be chilled on ice, and what better poolside beverage to have in your glass than a clean, zesty Semillon? Often referred to as the region’s white icon variety, Hunter styles of Semillon are known for being a young, light, lemon citrus wine before blossoming into a highly complex, nutty, toastier style with a bit of age. Here are some of our top summer drinking Semillons for the warm weather. 

The Hunter Valley is a region that has built its reputation around relatively traditional winemaking, signature varieties, family values and in general, doing what’s been perceived as “what the Hunter does best” for over a century. Fast forward to the 2020’s, some 150 years after the region’s inception, there are some exciting developments, some new entrants to the market, some traditionalists challenging the norm, and some young blood bringing more responsible farming and winemaking practices into their businesses and worldly experiences into practice back in their valley.

The drive from Sydney to the Hunter Valley via the M1 and Expressway can feel like it goes on forever and ever. Why not take the scenic route? Next time you’re driving up for a visit to the Hunter Valley, take the road less travelled and discover the rich history and natural beauty of Tourist Drive 33. Not long after you get onto the M1, you'll soon find yourself driving on a motorway that cuts through the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, which is full of bush-walking trails and offers the perfect opportunity to take a break during your travels. The motorway is also bordered by huge sandstone cut walls that lead in and out of lush bushland.