Which Hunter Valley wineries?

[mphatic]

I'm going to be down in the Hunter for a few days in late September for a conference. Some workmates who are also going suggested we do a wine tour on the arrival day (Monday) which we mostly have free (from arrival in Newcastle at 8:30ish til 5pm registration).

It will be a small group, likely 5-6, and we may possibly have access to a designated driver. One of the group is almost as keen on wine as I am, and the others haven't consumed much of the stuff, but are eager to taste and learn. So in other words, not a bunch of boozers.

So, any suggestions about which wineries we should visit? I'm thinking the likes of Brokenwood, Tyrrells, Mount Pleasant, De Bortolli, ??

Should we make appointments, or just rock up?
Any nice (and inexpenive) places for lunch or picnic?
Any winery tours that are worthwhile going on?
Do Lakes Folly and Meerea Park have cellar doors?
Does Lindemans have their premium SA wines on tasting?
If we can't get the designated driver, which tour companies would you recommend?

Any advice would be appreciated.

[Andrew Jordan]

From memory this subject was covered not too long ago ...

Here you are ... check out these threads for some good info.

http://forum.auswine.com.au/viewtopic.p ... ter+valley

http://forum.auswine.com.au/viewtopic.p ... ter+valley

http://forum.auswine.com.au/viewtopic.p ... ter+valley

[mphatic]

Thanks AJ,

Covered pretty comprehensively I see.

I did use the search tool, but I think I must have been scrolling down too quickly. I'm a bit of a google-ite I guess - if I don't find what I'm after in the first couple of hits I get very bored.

[Andrew Jordan]

Have a great time and let us know if you find any gems.

[pokolbinguy]

i would visit

- Mount Pleasant
- Tyrells
- Bimbadgen Estate
- BrokenWood
... + any others that tickle your fancy.

Making a booking would be a great idea but if you are going on a monday not as cruicial. Letting the cellar doors know is always advantageous.