THE GRAPEVINE BLOG

On paper, this might be the worst possible time to launch a new wine brand. Economic pressures, shifting drinking habits and a wine glut all should ring alarm bells. Yet at the inaugural “Valley Rising” festival, thirteen emerging Hunter Valley producers gathered to show that invention, belief and ambition are alive and well in Australia’s most historic wine region.

Sommeliers from leading Sydney restaurants and hospitality groups descended on the Hunter Valley for a hands-on, immersive two-day “Backstage” vintage experience. Kicking off with a masterclass hosted by industry legends Andrew Thomas, Andrew Spinaze and Iain Riggs, flagship Semillon vineyards including Thomas Braemore Vineyard, Mount Pleasant Lovedale Vineyard, Tyrrell's Vat 1 Vineyard, Brokenwood ILR Vineyard and Audrey Wilkinson Ridge Vineyard were showcased. The pure, fresh vibrancy of the 2025 wines were contrasted with a retrospective look at the golden 2006 vintage. “These wines are classics for the ages that will still be revered in 10–20 years,” said Thomas.

Getting the gang together for a long lunch or delicious dinner is super-easy in the Hunter Valley with 50 plus fabulous eateries. You can break bread amid the bustle of the main dining room, which is always fun, but if you want to spoil yourself with a discreet outing away from the crowd we've got that covered too. Here are five favourites that off...

Fire up your winter weekends with What's on this Winter and June long weekend in the Hunter Valley

Fire up the Autumn and Winter season with a range of great events in the Hunter Valley. From big weekends out to more intimate experiences, there’s something happening almost every week in the Hunter Valley. Here's what coming up in the Hunter Valley.