THE GRAPEVINE BLOG

In a milestone achievement, Balloon Aloft has become the first tourism operator in Australia to progress through the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard and then achieve Ecotourism Australia’s globally recognised Sustainable Tourism Certification.

As winter settles in, there's no better way to embrace the season than by cosying up next to a crackling fire with a glass of Hunter Valley red wine. Known for producing some of Australia's finest red wines, the Hunter Valley offers the perfect selections for those intimate winter evenings. Here's a curated list of the best Hunter Valley red wines that promise to warm your heart and enhance your fireside experience.

The Hunter Valley is becoming a vibrant destination for craft gin enthusiasts. Our expanding gin scene features unique spirits that showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of local distilleries.

Whether you're looking for one-of-a-kind gifts, local crafts, or artisanal treasures to take home, the Hunter Valley's retail spaces offer a treasure trove of exceptional finds. Explore charming boutiques, artisanal shops, and galleries that showcase the region's creativity and craftsmanship. Here's a glimpse of some must-visit shopping destinations that will make your trip to the Hunter Valley even more memorable.

Local dynamic winemaking duo Liz and Shaun Silkman’s – Silkman Wines – has been named amongst only 6 Australian wineries in contention for the prestigious title of Winery of the Year by the world-renowned wine bible – Halliday Wine Companion for its soon to be released 2025 edition.

Next time you visit the Hunter Valley, get ready to tantalize your taste buds with one of the region's unique wine and food pairing experiences. Our expert winemakers have meticulously curated pairings that highlight the finest local produce complimenting the region's acclaimed wines. Indulge in one (or several) of these unforgettable culinary adventures that showcase the very best of Hunter Valley's gourmet offerings.

Broke has cemented its position as one of the state’s most outstanding regional destinations after claiming silver in the 2024 NSW Top Tourism Town Awards.

The Hunter Valley village of Broke, nestling in the Wollombi Valley and home to fine wines and great food, celebrates 200 years in 2024.

The annual awards held at Rydges Resort Hunter Valley united more than 360 industry professionals and guests from the Hunter Valley wine and tourism industry. The Legends Awards honours the region's rich and vibrant history, celebrating the lasting influence and legacy of those who contribute outstanding service to the industry. Colin Peterson and John Drayton were inducted as 2024 Hunter Valley Living Legends.

Today the Hunter’s culinary not-for-profit body, known for producing one of the region’s hottest foodie events – the Food Fight, has unveiled its four Chefs for 2024. The four chefs, all at the top of the culinary chain will vie for the consumer’s vote at the popular lunch in the Hunter Valley in June.