Hunter Valley wine country is one of the most visited locations in Australia, and for good reason, because the Hunter Valley region is known for its stunning terroir that produces a variety of premium wines. Today, we're here to look at Hunter Valley's best wineries, so you can have the best cellar door experience and immerse yourself in both traditional and contemporary winemaking. Hunter Valley vineyards have some of the best grapes in the world, which makes visiting any Hunter Valley cellar door a true treat!
The best Hunter Valley wineries include:
- Bimbadgen Winery
- Leogate Estate Wines
- Peterson House
- Brokenwood Wines
- Audrey Wilkinson
- Calais Wines
- Tyrrell’s Wines
- Mount Pleasant Wines
- Scarborough Wine Co.
- De Iuliis Wines
- Hungerford Hill
- Tulloch Wines
- Krinklewood Estate
- Margan Wines
- Oakvale Wines
Best Hunter Valley Wineries
Without further ado, here are the 15 best wineries in the Hunter Valley wine region, with detailed descriptions of each, so you know exactly what you're getting into with every cellar door and wine tasting experience.
1. Bimbadgen Winery
Bimbadgen Cellar Door
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Address: 790 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin, NSW 2320, Australia
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Website: www.bimbadgen.com.au
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Hours:
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Monday to Thursday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
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Friday & Saturday: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
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Sunday: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
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Bimbadgen Restaurant - Esca Bimbadgen
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Hours:
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Lunch: Thursday to Monday: 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
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Dinner: Friday & Saturday: 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
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Bimbadgen Winery, located in Pokolbin, is a must-visit destination that combines quality winemaking with a stunning setting, making it one of the most sought-after Hunter Valley wineries. Its name, derived from the local Indigenous word meaning “place of good view,” perfectly captures the essence of this elevated estate, which offers panoramic views over the Hunter Valley.
Bimbadgen focuses on regional varietals, with their Semillon and Shiraz as flagship offerings. The Semillon delivers a crisp profile with citrus and floral notes that develop complexity with age, while the Shiraz offers rich dark berry flavours complemented by a peppery finish.
The winery also crafts a Chardonnay with a delicate balance of acidity and oak, and their Verdelho, with tropical fruit notes and a clean finish, remains a crowd favourite. Wine enthusiasts can explore the range through guided tastings at the modern cellar door. The wine tasting experience at Bimbadgen is second to none.
Dining is central to the Bimbadgen experience. Esca Bimbadgen, the estate’s fine-dining restaurant, offers a seasonal menu showcasing the best of local produce.
Signature dishes such as roasted pork belly and crispy barramundi are expertly paired with wines to enhance the dining experience. For a more relaxed meal, the casual wood-fired pizzeria serves artisanal pizzas that pair beautifully with Bimbadgen’s Verdelho or Rosé.
The estate also hosts various events, including live music festivals and outdoor cinema nights, making it a vibrant venue for visitors of all interests.
2. Leogate Estate Wines
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Address: 1693 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320, Australia
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Website: leogate.com.au
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Cellar Door Hours: Daily: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
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Restaurant Hours (The Gates):
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Lunch: Thursday to Monday: 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
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Dinner: Friday & Saturday: 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
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Leogate Estate Wines, found at the base of the Brokenback Range, offers an elegant experience with breathtaking vineyard views and a commitment to crafting premium wines. Those who want to go for a wine tasting in Australia's oldest wine region would be wise to explore Leogate.
Leogate’s standout wines include the Brokenback Shiraz, which boasts a bold, structured profile with dark fruit and a hint of spice, and their zesty Semillon, known for citrus and mineral undertones.
The Chardonnay, with creamy stone fruit notes and subtle oak, also consistently earns acclaim. These wines, made exclusively from estate-grown fruit, highlight the region’s unique terroir.
The estate’s on-site restaurant, The Gates, delivers a refined paddock-to-plate menu. Signature dishes like slow-cooked lamb shoulder and confit duck leg are tailored to pair with Leogate’s robust Shiraz, while lighter seafood options work beautifully with the Semillon or Chardonnay. The dining room, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, provides diners with stunning views of the surrounding vineyards.
For those interested in learning about winemaking, Leogate offers guided tours of the vineyard and winery. Visitors can delve into their sustainability practices and gain a deeper appreciation for the craft behind their wines.
3. Peterson House
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Address: Corner of Broke Rd & Wine Country Dr, Pokolbin NSW 2320, Australia
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Website: petersonhouse.com.au
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Cellar Door Hours: Daily: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
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Restaurant Hours (Restaurant Cuvée):
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Breakfast & Lunch: Daily: 8:00 am – 3:00 pm
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Peterson House is synonymous with sparkling wine in the Hunter Valley, making it a destination for those seeking something effervescent and unique.
Their flagship Sparkling Rosé features vibrant red berry flavours balanced by a crisp, dry finish, while the Sparkling Shiraz offers a bolder profile with dark fruit notes and subtle effervescence. The Blanc de Blancs, a classic sparkling made from Chardonnay, is light, refreshing, and perfect for warm afternoons.
Dining at Restaurant Cuvée, located on-site, is a highlight of any visit. The menu features elegant dishes like smoked salmon with citrus salad and lamb rump accompanied by seasonal vegetables, with each course designed to pair harmoniously with Peterson’s sparkling wines.
For early risers, the indulgent breakfast options, including dishes like eggs Benedict and champagne pancakes, provide a unique start to the day.
The estate’s serene setting includes a tranquil lake and picturesque vineyards, creating a relaxed atmosphere for wine tastings. The knowledgeable staff guide visitors through the sparkling wine range, ensuring an engaging and educational experience.
4. Brokenwood Wines
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Address: 401-427 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320, Australia
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Website: brokenwood.com.au
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Cellar Door Hours: Daily: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
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Restaurant Hours (The Wood Restaurant):
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Lunch: Daily: 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
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Brokenwood Wines has established itself as a leader in Australian winemaking, known for its commitment to quality and innovation making it a highly regarded winery in the Hunter Valley wine region.
The Graveyard Vineyard Shiraz, one of the winery’s most acclaimed offerings, features complex layers of black fruit, spice, and earthy undertones, making it a favourite among red wine lovers.
Another standout is the ILR Reserve Semillon, which showcases vibrant citrus notes that age into honeyed richness over time. Brokenwood’s Chardonnay is equally noteworthy for its balance of bright acidity and gentle oak influence.
The modern and welcoming cellar door offers guided tastings, wine flights, and access to premium and back-vintage wines. Guests can also enjoy light bites at the Cru Bar + Pantry, which features charcuterie boards, cheese platters, and other snacks perfectly paired with the estate’s wines.
Brokenwood often hosts events and masterclasses, providing an interactive way for guests to learn about the art of winemaking, making it one of the best Hunter Valley wineries as far as learning through an immersive experience is concerned.
5. Audrey Wilkinson
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Address: 750 De Beyers Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320, Australia
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Website: audreywilkinson.com.au
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Cellar Door Hours: Daily: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Audrey Wilkinson, one of the Hunter Valley’s oldest wineries, is celebrated for its rich history and exceptional wines.
The estate’s hallmark Semillon is crisp and refreshing, with lime and lemon notes complemented by a hint of minerality. The Shiraz, another standout, boasts dark fruit flavours with a well-balanced structure. Visitors should also try the Verdelho, which is aromatic and fruit-forward, or the dry Rosé with subtle berry undertones.
Perched on a hilltop, the estate offers stunning panoramic views, making it a popular spot for picnics. Gourmet hampers, complete with cured meats, cheeses, and fresh bread, can be paired with a bottle of wine for an idyllic afternoon.
The on-site wine museum provides an engaging look at the region’s winemaking history, adding an educational aspect to the visit. Between the museum, cellar door, and intimate wine tasting, it's one of the best Hunter Valley wineries without a doubt. A helicopter wine flight to Audrey Wilkinson always makes for an excellent day when it comes to seeing Hunter Valley wineries up close.
6. Calais Wines
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Address: 151 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin NSW 2320, Australia
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Website: calaiswines.com.au
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Cellar Door Hours: Daily: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Calais Wines provides a boutique experience with a focus on small-batch, traditional winemaking techniques, making it an iconic winery and one of the most celebrated locations in Australia's oldest wine region.
The standout Chambourcin offers bold cherry and earthy flavours, while their rich Shiraz appeals to lovers of full-bodied reds. Calais also produces sparkling wines, including the vibrant Sparkling Chambourcin, which is a unique twist on the varietal.
The cellar door is set within a rustic sandstone building that exudes charm and warmth. Personalised tastings allow visitors to explore the winemaking process and sample limited-edition releases. While there is no restaurant on-site, guests are encouraged to bring their own picnic to enjoy on the grounds, making for a relaxed and enjoyable outing.
7. Tyrrell’s Wines
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Address: 1838 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320, Australia
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Website: tyrrells.com.au
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Cellar Door Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Tyrrell’s Wines is an institution in the Hunter Valley, with over 160 years of winemaking heritage. The winery remains a cornerstone of Australian viticulture, producing some of the country’s most celebrated wines.
The Vat 1 Semillon is Tyrrell’s flagship, offering zesty citrus and floral notes that mature into honeyed complexity over time, making it a benchmark for the varietal. The Vat 9 Shiraz is equally iconic, showcasing red fruit flavours with hints of spice and earthy undertones. Additionally, their Chardonnay consistently impresses with its vibrant acidity and well-integrated oak.
Visitors to Tyrrell’s can partake in guided tastings held in a charming heritage building, where they’ll learn about the winery’s traditional methods, including basket pressing and open fermentation. The surrounding vineyard is home to some of the oldest vines in the region, further adding to its historical significance. Although there is no on-site dining, nearby local eateries provide excellent pairings for Tyrrell’s exceptional wines.
8. Mount Pleasant Wines
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Address: 401 Marrowbone Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320, Australia
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Website: mountpleasantwines.com.au
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Cellar Door Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Mount Pleasant Wines is synonymous with high-quality winemaking, blending tradition and innovation to craft wines that embody the Hunter Valley’s essence. It is another one of the most highly regarded Hunter Valley wineries there is.
Their Elizabeth Semillon is a standout, offering vibrant lemon and lime flavours that develop depth with age. The Maurice O’Shea Shiraz, named after the estate’s founder, is celebrated for its concentrated notes of blackcurrant and spice, with velvety tannins that reflect meticulous craftsmanship. Other varietals like Chardonnay and Verdelho round out their diverse range.
The estate’s cellar door is a beautifully designed space offering expansive vineyard views. Tastings are guided by knowledgeable staff who provide insights into the estate’s rich history and winemaking process. Regular wine-and-food pairing events, often featuring collaborations with local chefs, allow visitors to experience the wines in a gastronomic context.
9. Scarborough Wine Co.
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Address: 179 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320, Australia
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Website: scarboroughwine.com.au
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Cellar Door Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Scarborough Wine Co. is a family-owned winery known for its warm hospitality and a particular focus on Chardonnay. They are also known for being some of the most passionate winemakers in South Wales.
The Yellow Label Chardonnay is rich and creamy, with notes of stone fruit and vanilla, while the Blue Label Chardonnay is more vibrant and fruit-forward. Their Verdelho and Pinot Noir are also well-regarded for their balanced flavours and elegance. Visitors can explore the winery’s offerings through guided tastings at one of two cellar doors.
The Gillards Road Cellar Door provides an intimate experience with seated tastings paired with cheese platters, while the Hermitage Road venue offers a more relaxed atmosphere for picnics on the lawn. Scarborough’s dedication to personalised service ensures that each visit is both memorable and enriching.
10. De Iuliis Wines
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Address: 1616 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320, Australia
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Website: deiuliis.com.au
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Cellar Door Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
De Iuliis Wines is a modern winery that combines innovative practices with a passion for quality, creating some very unique wine styles.
Their Hunter Valley Semillon is a crisp and refreshing expression of the varietal, with vibrant citrus notes and a clean finish. The Shiraz is bold and structured, offering layers of dark fruit and spice. The winery also produces a popular Rosé, perfect for warmer days with its light and fruity profile.
The cellar door features a contemporary design, creating a relaxed environment for tastings. Special events like winemaker-led sessions and blending workshops provide a more interactive experience. Visitors can learn about the meticulous winemaking process while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding vineyards.
11. Hungerford Hill
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Address: 2450 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320, Australia
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Website: hungerfordhill.com.au
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Cellar Door Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Hungerford Hill is a Hunter Valley favourite, renowned for its classic and experimental wines.
The Classic Hunter Valley Shiraz is a staple, offering depth and richness with notes of blackberries and spice. The Fish Cage Chardonnay is another standout, showcasing vibrant acidity and subtle oak influence. For those seeking something unique, Hungerford Hill’s experimental range offers a creative twist on traditional varietals.
The Epic Tasting Experience pairs wines with small bites designed to enhance their flavours, creating a memorable culinary journey. The cellar door’s sleek architecture and large windows provide a stunning backdrop for tastings, making Hungerford Hill an engaging destination.
12. Tulloch Wines
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Address: 638 De Beyers Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320, Australia
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Website: tullochwines.com
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Cellar Door Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Tulloch Wines, with a history dating back to 1895, is one of the Hunter Valley’s most established wineries. You can rest assured that if you're looking for some of the best wine that Hunter Valley produces, you'll find it here.
The Hector Limited Release Shiraz is a standout, offering a full-bodied profile with layers of dark fruit and spice. Their Semillon and Verdelho are bright and zesty, while the Chardonnay offers a balanced and elegant palate.
Tulloch’s cellar door combines traditional charm with modern amenities, offering interactive tasting options like chocolate pairings and family-friendly flights. The winery’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its environmentally friendly practices, ensuring a lasting legacy in the region.
13. Krinklewood Estate
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Address: 712 Wollombi Rd, Broke NSW 2330, Australia
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Website: krinklewood.com
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Cellar Door Hours: Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Krinklewood Estate is a biodynamic and organic winery known for its sustainable practices and distinctive wines, along with its contemporary cellar door.
Their Verdelho is bright and zesty, with tropical fruit notes, while the Shiraz offers a medium-bodied profile with earthy undertones. The sparkling Blanc de Blancs is elegant and refined, perfect for special occasions.
The French-inspired gardens and rustic cellar door create a tranquil environment for tastings. Visitors can explore the biodynamic vineyard and learn about the holistic approach that defines Krinklewood’s philosophy, making it a must-visit for eco-conscious wine enthusiasts.
14. Margan Wines
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Address: 1238 Milbrodale Rd, Broke NSW 2330, Australia
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Website: margan.com.au
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Cellar Door Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
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Restaurant Hours: Friday – Saturday: 6:00 pm – 9:30 pm, Saturday – Sunday: 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Margan Wines combines sustainability with innovation, crafting wines that reflect the best of the Hunter Valley, and it also happens to be a great location for a winery tour.
The Semillon features zesty citrus and grassy notes, while the Fiano is gaining popularity for its textured palate and vibrant acidity. The Shiraz is bold and fruit-forward, with notes of blackberries and pepper.
Margan’s paddock-to-plate restaurant highlights the estate’s commitment to local produce, with a seasonal menu crafted from ingredients grown on-site.
Signature dishes like lamb shoulder with garden vegetables pair beautifully with their wines, creating a holistic dining experience. Visitors can also take guided vineyard tours to learn about Margan’s sustainable practices.
15. Oakvale Wines
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Address: 1596 Broke Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320, Australia
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Website: oakvalewines.com.au
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Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Oakvale Wines is one of the oldest boutique wineries in the Hunter Valley, established in 1893, and is renowned for its dedication to traditional, minimal-intervention winemaking. Located in Pokolbin, Oakvale focuses on crafting wines that authentically express the region's unique terroir.
Their wine portfolio includes a standout Semillon, known for its bright citrus notes and vibrant acidity, alongside a Chardonnay that balances stone fruit flavours with subtle oak undertones. The estate’s Shiraz is particularly notable, offering rich red and black fruit flavours with hints of spice, making it a favourite among wine enthusiasts. They also produce a refreshing Rosé and a sweet Moscato, catering to a wide variety of palates.
The cellar door experience at Oakvale is warm and inviting, with knowledgeable staff guiding visitors through tastings that highlight the winemaking philosophy and the nuances of their wine. Their tastings are often paired with local cheeses, enhancing the flavours of the wines.
One of Oakvale’s most distinctive features is its commitment to sustainability and organic practices. The winery is fully solar-powered and works exclusively with organic vineyards, ensuring that their winemaking process leaves a minimal environmental footprint.
While Oakvale doesn’t have an on-site restaurant, visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic to enjoy on the beautiful grounds, surrounded by the scenic vineyards and the peaceful Hunter Valley countryside. This blend of history, sustainable winemaking, and exceptional wines makes Oakvale a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Hunter Valley.
