Hunter Valley's Finest: 17 Top Wineries You Must Visit

The Hunter Valley is the oldest and the most critically acclaimed wine region in the country, producing some of the most respected and delicious drops in Australia and beyond. People flock from all over the world to experience the wine scene of the Hunter, and with the region’s Semillon and Shiraz ranking amongst world-renowned wines, there’s something to impress even the most critical wine connoisseurs. With wineries opening their doors from Monday through to Sunday, experience the finest wine, beer and spirits in guided tastings, culinary greatness from prestigious fine dining to alfresco woodfire pizza on the rolling hills, your very own grape picking experience and vineyard tours, plus the opportunity to shop artisanal, locally made products. With over 150 wineries, there’s not nearly enough time to explore them all at once. So, here are some of our top picks for must-see wineries during your Hunter Valley stay.

1.    Bimbadgen

Bimbadgen is impressive from the first glance, with a photo-worthy fountain amidst meticulously trimmed hedges and seasonal jacaranda flowers, followed by a large indoor space welcoming guests through a crafty door reminiscent of a barrel. Overlooking the vast vineyards, choose from indoor or outdoor seating, and with its cellar door, pizza kitchen and event space, there’s room for everyone and every occasion. With a spotlight on their lively semillon, rich chardonnay, and refined shiraz, a guided tasting can help you pick a favourite while you sit back and soak up the gorgeous greenery with friends. Address: 790 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin NSW Contact: 02 4998 4600 (02 4998 4650 for cellar door bookings) Cellar door open hours: Monday to Saturday 10am – 4pm. Sunday 11am – 3pm Website: https://www.bimbadgen.com.au/Book Online

2. Audrey Wilkinson

As their ethos states, “It’s all about the wine.”, and this is where you will find some of the best in the Hunter Valley. The five-star rated winery is perched amongst the Brokenback Mountain Ranges boasting unforgettable panoramic views from its spacious location, garnished with a stunning colonial style cellar door that welcomes visitors for wine tastings and memory making. As one of the most visited cellar doors in the region, their astonishing 150-year expertise means the most refined of wines, including specialty shiraz and semillon, true to the Hunter Valley reputation. Address: 750 De Beyers Road, POKOLBIN NSW 2320 Contact:  (02) 4998 1866 Cellar door open hours:10am-5pm daily. Website: https://audreywilkinson.com.au/

3. Peterson House

Often called the gateway to the Hunter Valley, Peterson House welcomes droves of visitors with a prominent stance on the main road leading into the Hunter. Boasting over 30 different varieties of sparkling wine (because life’s worth celebrating) you can choose to pop to the cellar door for a tasting to help you pick your favourite or indulge in delicious cuisine at the onsite restaurant. With a special Pink Blush Rose that must be tried, overlook the pristine lake and soak up the simple pleasures in life. Address: Corner Broke Road and Wine Country Drive Contact:  02 4998 7881 Cellar door open hours:10am-5pm daily. Website: https://petersonhouse.com.au/

4.  Hanging Tree Wines

A special boutique winery known for its handcrafted wines and picturesque vineyard setting, enjoy unique varietals and personalised tastings amidst the Hunter charm. The family and pet friendly cellar door opens daily for visitors to enjoy a range of wines, including semillon, chardonnay and unique flavours of Petit Verdot and Durif amidst an ambient and accommodating atmosphere lined with olive trees. Explore the heritage listed cottages, koi fishpond and rose garden, and with the buzz of live Jazz on Sundays alongside daily puppy cuddles from the four friendly resident labradors, Hanging Tree is not to be missed.

Address: 294 O'Connors Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320 Contact: info@hangingtreewines.com.au Phone: +61 2 4998 6608 Cellar door open hours: Open daily, 10am to 5pm Website: https://hangingtreewines.com.au/

5. Scarborough Wines

Positioned in a pocket of the valley amidst rolling green hills, settle into the welcoming atmosphere of Scarborough Wines with a taste of the esteemed Yellow Label Chardonnay that skyrocketed in popularity in the 90’s, or perhaps sip on a perfectly curated pinot noir or shiraz. Pioneering wine in a can for perfect summer picnics on the green, sip on crisp white in the sunshine and enjoy the view – inarguably the best way to spend a Sunday!

Address: 179 Gillards Road Pokolbin, NSW 2320

Contact: P | (02) 4998 7563 E | info@scarboroughwine.com.au Cellar door open hours: Open 7 days a week, 10am – 5pm Website: https://www.scarboroughwine.com.au/

6. Tyrrells

Established in 1858, Tyrrells is one of the most respected of the Valley. With a vast selection of wines, including the famous Vat 1 Semillon that has won almost 5,500 medals and more than 330 trophies (making it Australia’s most awarded white), or the 1976 Vat 6 pinot noir that is classified as the best in the world, you’re spoilt for choice and guaranteed quality. You can even bring your furry friend to explore the vineyards (just not inside the tasting room!), or stroll around the premises appreciating the heritage buildings and iconic history of the site.

Address: 1838 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320 Contact:  Book through website Cellar door open hours: Monday to Saturday: 10am – 5pmSunday & Public Holidays: 10am – 4pm Website: https://tyrrells.com.au/

7. Moorebank Vineyard

A stunning boutique vineyard with a family feel and focus on quality, visit Moorebank for premium wines and hand crafted, wine inspired condiments – all created by owner Debra Moore herself. With premium pet nat and much-loved Montepulciano, the niche varietals provide an unforgettable tasting experience worth taking home. Upon arrival you’ll likely be greeted by Stella the friendly red kelpie (who has been tributed in a bottle of sparkling wine to match her dazzling smile) and kangaroos grazing between the vineyards in the afternoon light. It doesn’t get much better.

Address: 150 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin, 2320 Contact:   02 4998 7610 Cellar door open hours: 10am-5pm daily (Closed Tuesdays) Website: https://moorebankvineyard.com.au/

8. De Bortoli Wines

This sprawling site is home to some of the most premium wines with an air of classic Italian hospitality, including premier pinot gris and award winners like the Vat 7 Chardonnay and Vat 5 Semillon. Alongside beautiful wines, there’s a huge range of entertainment and culinary goodness on rotation, including weekly Sydney Rock Oyster stands, the Hunter Wine Country Markets, and Pinot and Picasso Classes. Whether you’re after a guided tasting or a self-paced glass of rose and a snack, you’re sure to stay entertained, and wined and dined, at De Bortoli. Address: 532 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin NSW 2320 Contact:   (02) 4993 8800 Cellar door open hours: Tastings available 10am to 5pm daily. Website: https://www.debortoli.com.au/visit-us/cellar-doors/hunter-valley

9. Tulloch Wines

There’s no better way to elevate your designated relaxation time in the gorgeous Valley than with fine wine and artisanal crafted goodies, and Tulloch offers these aplenty. With tasting spaces both indoors and outdoors, savour their signature vibrant Verdelho, single grape reds or blends, or opt for a touch of sweet in a fabulous, fortified wine. The family-friendly establishment even offers a unique tasting experience to cater for children, so they can be a part of the action too. It really is an experience for the whole family.

Address: 638 DeBeyers Road, Pokolbin 2320 NSW Contact:  cellardoor@tullochwines.com Cellar door open hours: 10am – 5pm daily (Closed Good Friday & Christmas Day) Website: https://www.tullochwines.com/

10.  Brokenwood Wines

Named the Best Cellar Door in New South Wales at the 2025 Halliday People's Choice Awards, Brokenwood offers a variety of wine tasting experiences that allow you to really appreciate the expertise required to make quality wines, and grow their home-grown grapes of course. With a vast outdoor space to soak up the sun with a wine in hand (or perhaps craft beer), there’s no better way to spend any day of the week absorbing glorious views of the valley. Whether you prefer a buttery Chardonnay or an oaky red, Brokenwood provides bespoke tastings tailored to your palate, alongside culinary greatness including fresh seafood and tapas style share plates.

Address: 401-427 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320 Phone: +61 2 4998 7559 E-mail: sales@brokenwood.com.au Cellar door open hours: Monday to Friday  |  11am - 5pmSaturday & Sunday  |  10am - 5pm  Website: https://www.brokenwood.com.au/

11.  Draytons Family Wines

Beginning in 1853, Draytons Family Wines is the oldest winery in Pokolbin, and one of the oldest in Australia, combining over 170 years of winemaking experience to craft their excellent selection. By fusing this rich heritage with modern techniques and equipment, they produce a wide range of wines including spectacular semillon and shiraz, as well as liqueurs and fortified tawnys of exceptional quality. With a casual yet delicious menu, indulge in woodfired pizzas to accompany your favourite drop of the day. Don’t forget to get your hands on an exclusive bottle of 2014 range of Shiraz to take home (inarguably the best year for shiraz, as you will likely learn in your wine tasting!).

Address: Draytons Family Wines555 Oakey Creek Road Phone: (02) 4998 7513 Email: drink@draytonswines.com.au Cellar door open hours: Daily 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Website: https://draytonswines.com.au/

12.  Tamburlaine Organic Wines

https://tamburlaine.com.au/As the largest independent organic grower famous for its sustainable practices, Tamburlaine creates premium, chemical-free wines while using eco-friendly techniques, highlighting their commitment to both quality and the conservation of the ever-cherished Valley. Visitors can enjoy a variety of organic wines in the stunning natural setting, navigating the walkways that are lined with flourishing grapevines. Enjoy a cellar door tasting and indulge in a cabernet sauvignon or Riesling, or take it a step further and let the professionals guide you through a paired wine and cheese tasting.

Address: 358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320 Contact:   T | 02 4998 4222 E | info@tamburlaine.com.au Cellar door open hours: Monday - Sunday 9am to 5pm. Open all public holidays except Christmas Day. Website: https://tamburlaine.com.au/

13. Hunter Wine Lab

Hunter Wine Lab is a top contender for the most creative, and their engaging cellar door experiences will have you educated about the winemaking process from start to finish, taking you all the way from the vine to the wine. Enjoy pinots to merlots and everything in between, including various special small batch wines, a beer tasting paddle for those partial to a frothy substitute, or even a wine and handcrafted chocolate tasting combination to take treating yourself to the next level. The real statement is the pink prosecco rose, their signature sip – perfect easy summer drinking.

Address: 433 Hermitage Road Pokolbin NSW Contact:  hello@hunterwinelab.com 0488 483 810 Cellar door open hours: 10am - 6pm, 7 days Website: https://hunterwinelab.com/

14. Tempus Two Cellar Door

Nestled in the Roche Estate in the heart of the Hunter Valley, the hole-in-the-wall style cellar door offers a premium selection of white, red and dessert wines to taste. Book yourself a classic tasting, a wine and chocolate tasting, or if you are not a wine fan, enjoy a premium gin tasting which comes paired with a gourmet cheese plate. Enjoy a rich, peppery shiraz or a crisp sauvignon blanc overlooking the hills descending down to the calm lake, where you are almost promised to spot local wildlife amongst the action. With plentiful restaurants within the amphitheatre-style setting of Roche Estate just steps away, there’s an abundance of choice in cuisine following this memorable cellar door experience.

Address: Roche Estate, Broke Rd &, McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320 Contact:   P | 1800 531 965 E | concierge@tempustwo.com.au Cellar door open hours: 10am – 5pm Daily Website: https://www.tempuswines.com.au/about-tempus-two.html

15. Leogate Estate

As some of the pioneers of modern winemaking, Leogate is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts, whether it’s experiencing a tasting, a vineyard tour, or a fine dining experience at the on-site restaurant. With a selection of combined canape and wine tasting packages that take the guess work out of your experience, sip your wines amongst the vibrant greenery of the outdoor alfresco area, or head to the Lion’s Den Lounge where a barrel lined interior provides ultimate ambience, and self-pick light snacks from the bar menu. Whatever you choose, Leogate is sure to impress.

Address: 1693 Broke Road Pokolbin NSW 2320 Australia Contact: P | 02 4998 7499

E | reservations@leogate.com.au Cellar door open hours: Wednesday - Sunday 10.00AM - 5.00PM Website: https://www.leogate.com.au/

16.  Bonvilla Estate

Nestled in the heart of the Hunter Valley, this 100-acre gem is perched on a scenic ridge in Pokolbin, offering uninterrupted views of the sprawling wine country. Admire the classic architecture of the winery while savouring exquisite varietals that pay homage to the region. Renowned for its profound sparkling rosé, as well as single vineyard Shiraz and Chardonnay, the winery reaps the benefits of the unique microclimate of the Hunter. With a focus on personalising your wine journey and the emphasis of promoting winemaking as an artform, learn, sip and savour your tasting experience at Bonvilla.

Address: 534 Oakey Creek Rd Pokolbin, Hunter Valley NSW Australia Contact:

P | +61 422 454 455 E | hello@bonvillaestate.com.au

Cellar Door Opening Hours: Open 7 Days – 10am to 5pm

Website: https://bonvillaestate.com.au/

17.  Usher Tinkler Wines 

A bespoke winery run by third generation wine makers, Usher Tinkler take pride in the process from start to finish. If they sell a wine, it’s from their vines, and their commitment to authenticity is evident in the varieties you taste and the experience you get. With a unique cheese and salumi (Italian cured meats) tasting to accompany skins-y semillon and charming chardonnays, appreciate the pleasant outdoor air of this pocket of the Hunter, or opt for cosiness inside the distinct converted church barn. Address: Cellar & Salumi 97 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin, NSW 2320 Contact:  (02) 4998 7069  Cellar door open hours:  Open 7 days, 10am to 5pm  Tastings available 10am to 5pm Tasting with Salumi & Cheese available 10:30am to 3pm Website: https://ushertinklerwines.com/

The Hunter Valley offers endless joy for both wine lovers and experience seekers. Hire bicycles and dash between your pick of wineries at your own pace, or join a day-long wine tour with your own bus driver to guide you through the vineyards. Whatever you choose, your stay is bound to be one to remember. Reserve your stay at The Vintage Timespace for ultimate luxury and prime access to all of the action and activities the Hunter has to offer. Warning: you may not want to leave!