Best of Newcastle
Hunter Valley Day Trip from Newcastle: Wine, Food and Cellar Doors
The Hunter Valley wine region begins about an hour northwest of Newcastle via Cessnock, making it one of the most accessible wine regions from any Australian city. Pokolbin and Lovedale are the heart of the cellar door trail, with dozens of wineries ranging from small family-run operations to large estates open for tastings. Semillon and Shiraz are the Hunter's signature varieties, though the range has broadened considerably. The area also has well-regarded restaurants, a strong cheese and produce scene, and a number of accommodation options for those extending to a weekend. Saturday is the busiest cellar door day; a midweek visit in the Dry months is quieter and often more enjoyable.
The Daily Newcastle brief
Love Newcastle? Get the daily briefing, free.
- 1
Bimbadgen Estate
One of the Hunter Valley's most spectacular cellar doors, on a hilltop near Pokolbin, with a wide range of Hunter shiraz and semillon and an outdoor concert venue.
- 2
Tyrrell's Wines
One of the oldest family-owned wineries in Australia, producing the benchmark Hunter Valley semillon since 1858.
- 3
Hunter Valley Gardens
A large privately operated garden in Pokolbin, with 10 themed garden rooms, an annual Christmas lights show and a village retail precinct.
- 4
Leogate Estate Wines
A boutique Hunter estate with a relaxed cellar door, strong single-vineyard shiraz and an outdoor terrace overlooking the vineyards.
- 5
Cessnock, Hunter Valley Gateway
The main service town for the Hunter wine region, 30 minutes from Newcastle, with accommodation, restaurants and the Hunter Valley Visitor Centre.
Missing from this guide?
Suggest a Newcastle business
Sponsored placements