HUNTER VALLEY LEGENDS

John Drayton Living LegendJohn’s career started in 1989 when he joined his father Max and brother Greg and late brother, Trevor, in the family business, Drayton’s Family Wines. The family legacy of winemaking now stands at over 170 years. John’s contribution to the Hunter Valley tourism industry has been significant. As a Board representative and Chairman of Cessnock City Tourism and Hunter Valley Wine Country Tourism for 19 years, John’s leadership laid the foundations for the success of the region as a wine tourism destination. John was also recognised for his exceptional commitment to community service through his involvement with the Pokolbin Rural Fire Service, the Pokolbin Irrigation District and in strengthening connections between the wine industry and the local community with the establishment of a vineyard at Mount View High School; believed at the time to be the first school in NSW to be granted a Vigneron’s Licence.

John Drayton was inducted as A  Living Legend in  2024.

HUNTER VALLEY LEGENDS

Col Peterson Living Legend

Colin Peterson was inducted as the 2024 Wine Industry Living Legend. Petersons Wines now enjoys widespread recognition in the Hunter Valley and across the Australian wine industry, from its origins in 1964 with the purchase of Glenesk Mt View by Colin’s parents, Ian and Shirley. 15 years later, Petersons produced their inaugural Vintage, marking the start of a 40-year collaboration with Winemaker, Gary Reed. Colin has led the family business since 2000, when he sold Wollundry (Calais Estate) and opened his Mt View winery and Savannah Estate cellar door. His wine business now grows over 30 grape varieties across its NSW vineyards and employs over 250 people. In 1992, Colin had a vision to produce traditional method sparkling wine and nearly two decades on, Peterson House is the hub of sparkling wine in the Hunter Valley. In 2017, Colin and Brian McGuigan purchased Ben Ean, the former Lindeman’s Estate returning the property to its 174-year historical roots of the Hunter. Taking the business overseas, Colin has expanded with Petersons Wines Singapore and China, capitalising on the demand for Hunter wine in these markets. Over his career, Colin has mentored and collaborated with winemakers and grape growers across the region, with perhaps the best yet to come by mentoring his daughter Savannah.

Colin Peterson was inducted as a legend in  2024.

The quaint Palmers Lane located conveniently in the heat of the Hunter Valley is a haven for wine lovers and holiday makers alike.

BOUTIQUE WINERIES

Receive a warm welcome from passionate winemakers at boutique family-owned wineries and relish in the taste of exceptional wines. Be taken on a journey of wine exploration as you partake in an immersive wine experience all with the backdrop of uninterrupted Valley Views. Hear from family wine-dynasties and discover the pleasures of sustainable, small batch wines. Enjoy a bite to eat, and explore the gift shop Come What May Homewares before retreating to your centrally located accommodation.

UNIQUE ACCOMMODATION

The unique accommodation offerings along the Palmers Lane wine trail allow you to find relaxation in the heart of the Hunter Valley. Whether you decide to head off and explore or stay in and enjoy a morning coffee in the sun at your self-contained lodge, a swim at the on-site pool, or roasting marshmallows with the little ones on an open fire. 

10 things to do in the Hunter Valley this Winter

 things to do Winter

1. HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE AT DAWN

Experience the beauty of the Hunter Valley from above by taking a hot air balloon ride. Enjoy panoramic views of the vineyards, countryside, and maybe even catch a glimpse of kangaroos hopping around.

hot airballoon winter

2. SNOW TIME AT HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS

Discover the magic of Winter at Hunter Valley Gardens as the Gardens transform into a winter wonderland with artificial snow, ice skating rinks, and various winter-themed activities. Families and visitors can enjoy tobogganing, build snowmen, participate in snowball fights, and explore the enchanting gardens adorned with icy decorations.

snow time hvg

3. WINE BY THE FIRE

There is no better way to warm up this Winter than a glass of award winning Shiraz in hand by the fire. Whether you want to tempt your tastebuds with a wine tasting or simply sip on a glass, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor places to cosy up by a fire. Discover wines next to the fireplace at cellar door, or relax fireside at your accommodation

boydells fireside

4. HORSE RIDING

Saddle up and enjoy spectacular valley views. Take it outdoors and explore the Hunter Valley's natural wonders with a horse riding adventure, trail ride or tour.

horse riding winter

5. LEARN TO MAKE YOUR OWN HEARTY MEAL AT A COOKING SCHOOL

Get your hands dirty at one of the many cooking classes on offer this Winter. From authentic pasta classes at Our Italian Table to low and smokey meats at Major Lanes Cooking School, there is plenty on offer.

Our italian table winter

6. TAKE A SCENIC HIKE THROUGH ONE OF THE NATIONAL PARKS

Get the heart rate pumping with a leisurely bush walk through one of the many national parks. For breathtaking views across the Hunter Valley you can hike up to Mount Bright Lookout, Bimbadeen Lookout or Pokolbin Mountains Road lookout. 

yengo nation park

7. GOLF

Get into the swing of things in Hunter Valley Wine Country with our golf course round-up. Golfers are spoilt for choice with championship golf courses offering scenic views. With three quality courses within 20 kilometres of Pokolbin, the region can mount a strong case of being regarded as one of the pre-eminent golf-and-wine destinations in the country.

golf winter

8. INDULGE IN A DEGUSTATION

Whether you want to go all out or simply just can't decide, opt in for the degustation at one of our many award winning restaurants and allow our skilled chefs to take you on a gastronomical journey as they put forward their personal selection of must-try dishes.

fine dining winter

9. TREAT YOURSELF TO A SPA DAY

Escape the cold and submit yourself to a deep state or rest and relaxation at one of our many spas this Winter. Imagine basking by your own private woodfire post- couple’s massage, with a satisfying glass of Hunter Valley wine.

spa winter

10. DISCOVER OUR ART SCENE

In a place so beautiful, creativity, arts and culture go hand in hand with wine and food culture. A sip of wine and you might feel inclined to explore your creative side with a gallery visit, culture walk, or art class, or discover a host of artistic endeavours at the Singleton Arts & Cultural Centre.

art winter

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