When it comes to wine, Australia produces some of (if not THE) best wines in the world. Ok, I might be biased, but we do have a thriving wine making industry and a booming wine exporting business in Australia so I’m guessing I’m not the only one that enjoys a drop of the Aussie grape juice.

The Hunter Valley is located 2 hours north of Sydney and is home to  more than 150 wineries, plenty of restaurants and romantic or family friendly getaway options galore (some are even pet friendly! #winning). Whether or not you only have a weekend or a full week, visiting the Hunter Valley should be on your bucket list if you’re visiting Australia or Sydney. Here are just 3 Hunter Valley wineries you should make time to check out.

Piggs Peake

Source: Instagram/ @piggspeakwines

Piggs Peake is my absolute favourite winery to visit whenever I am in the Hunter Valley. Why? 3 reasons:

• I love every single wine they produce (yes seriously)
• The owners and wine makers are the kindest and most passionate people and are typically the people to take you through a wine tasting. Steve is a true craftsman and has a wealth of knowledge
• They’re dog people. They have their own dog that likes to hang out with wine tasters 

Unlike other wineries in the Hunter, Piggs Peake do not grow their own grapes…well except for the ornamental patch out the front of the winery. They source their grapes from Mudgee, Moree, Orange, Young, McLaren Vale and the Hunter Valley and then do a bit of science to create phenomenal wines.

They’ve just recently opened a restaurant, so you can enjoy a bite to eat while you continue to sip on some amazing wines. My suggestion, do not pass up the opportunity to taste the Werewolf.

Source: Instagram/ @piggspeakewines

Cockfighters Ghost

Source: Instagram/ @cockfightersghostwines

If you’re a fan of ghost stories and legends like I am, then Cockfighters Ghost is your new wine haunt.  According to Aussie legend, in 1835 Governor Macquarie was on a mission to open up routes to the Hunter Valley (maybe because he knew how damn good the wine will be and wanted share..aww, how sweet!) and told explorers to make it happen. Then, in true horror and ghost movie style, the explorers attempted to cross a flooded a creek during a stormy and windy night with their strongest horse named Cockfighter. Unfortunately, Cockfighter drowned trying to get across the creek (why does the hero always die?!). Rumour has it that when convict gangs were sent to construct a bridge over the creek, Cockfighters Ghost could be seen galloping across the land and near the creek bank. Even now, it’s believed Cockfighters Ghost still haunts the vineyards that are planted on the bank of the creek.

Legends aside, the winery is absolutely stunning and the restaurant has some great food. The staff are also extremely friendly and knowledgeable. Grab a glass of their amazing single vineyard McLaren Vale Sangiovese Rose, graze on the farmhouse cheese and crackers platter from the restaurant Hunters Quarter and enjoy a relaxing day with friends. Or settle in for the night at the winery in their cute af cottage called the White House and wait to see Cockfighers Ghost!

Audrey Wilkinson

Source: Instagram/ @audreywilkinsonwines

What were you doing when you were 15 years old? I would bet not running a winery. Well that’s exactly what young Audrey was doing when his father died and he was left in charge of what one day would be an award winning winery. 

If award winning wines hasn’t won you over yet, Audrey Wilkinson was also rated as one of the Top 10 Cellar Doors by Gourmet Traveller Wine. And if awards and recognition doesn’t sway you, then just know that the wines are tasty af, the scenery is absolutely stunning (and if you ask my best friend Erin, it’s also the perfect backdrop for a romantic af proposal!) and the tasting experience is sure to leave you with a few new favourite wines.

The stand out wines are the shiraz, chardonnay, pinot noir and the semillion but check stop in and decide for yourself. 

Final thoughts…

The Hunter Valley Wine Region is definitely a part of Australia you need to add to your bucket list if you’re into gourmet food and delicious wines. With over 150 wineries to choose from, you are definitely spoiled for choice. So if you’re planning your first or returning trip to the Hunter Valley, be sure to add the above wineries to your itinerary. And not to get all mamma on anyone, but please always drink responsibly – wine tasting is thirsty work after all.

Get outside, stay inspired & seek adventure,

Lara
Xx

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