Upper Hunter Food and Wine

Tucked into Australia’s acclaimed Hunter Valley wine region, the Upper Hunter is home to acclaimed wineries, gourmet providores and abundant markets. Take a culinary tour and savour handmade cheeses, taste the fresh-pressed olive oils and relax in vineyard restaurants.

Wineries and Cellar Doors

You’ll discover innovative winemakers and breathtaking views on a winery tour. Visit Two Rivers Wines, named after the beautiful Hunter and Goulburn rivers near its vineyard, and enjoy a long lunch. Small Forest is run by Japan’s first female winemaker, Atsuko Radcliffe.

West of Denman is James Estate Wines, where its Baerami vineyard plantings date back to 1968. Southeast of Denman is Hollydene Estate Wines, which grows classic valley and emerging grape varieties such as tempranillo. On the estate is the Vines Restaurant, which has a seasonal menu.

Restaurants and Gourmet Experiences

Relax over a delicious meal at The Cottage, where local fare served with modern Australian twists. Sample quality Angus steak at The Thoroughbred Restaurant, in the historic Thoroughbred Hotel. Continue your tasty adventure in Muswellbrook at Hunter Belle Cheese, which makes its own cheeses by hand.

On your way to cellar doors around Denman and Sandy Hollow stop at Pukara Estate, a producer of fine olive oils and vinegars a short drive southwest of Muswellbrook. Other culinary delights include the monthly Denman Farmers Market where local produce includes wine, cheese, fruit and vegetables.

Getting there and where to stay

The Upper Hunter is a scenic 2hr 20min drive from Newcastle or around three hours from Sydney. Alternatively, you can take a scenic train trip to Scone via Newcastle and Maitland. Near magnificent national parks and World Heritage wilderness, the Upper Hunter is also home to scenic drives.

You can take your pick of places to stay from farm stays, cottages and luxury retreats to motels, caravan parks and campgrounds. At Lake Glenbawn, there are cabins, bungalows and campsites on the foreshore. Camp at Washpools campground in the Towarri National Park, among pockets of rainforest, snow gums and casuarinas.