Full day Hunter Valley Tour started with a pick up of myself- from the free camp in Broke to the Rydges to pick up life long friends Janice and Linda! They were older ladies and great fun throughout the day.
Out first stop was an organic winery- Tamburlaine – where we sampled some really easy drinking wines. Not many that I did not like- though the Pinot Gris- usually a favourite- was a little dry for me.
Next was Pokolbin Wines- where Linda struck up a great deal for us- to make use of a 120 for 6 bottle deal of the Riesling. This one only stays on the vines for 2 more weeks than a previous sample we had and the sweetness gained in that time is quiet lovely! So, Linda got 3, Janice 2 and I got 1 bottle.
Next stop was Garden Cellars- in the village -and more a liqueur /spirits stop as well as lunch- where we fended for ourselves. By far- my favourite here was the cucumber gin! Really good and will keep my eye out for it in the future!
After lunch we picked up a half day tour couple- also from the Rydges- to join us. By the stage Linda and Janice were really happy and didn’t like the drinking interruption – hahahaha!!
Together we all headed to McLeish Estate. A small-scale producer of some lovely wines too. My favourite wine here was the granny smith apple tasting Auld Kille white wine. Here I paid back my debts to Linda by purchasing her a cheese plate – which she was kind enough to share.
A very unexpected stop- Vamp- Lisa McGuigan Wines. Décor here is gothic and medieval- all leather and metal. It’s very different than the usual winery vibe!
Next we went back to the village to try some vodkas and liqueurs at Small Mouth. All their products have edible glitter and so they sparkle -nice for cocktails. I made Janice participate so that I could have more of her tastings 😊.
Our last stop was at Fat Cow for a cheese and chocolate tasting. We also started with some garlic virgin olive oil and a balsamic reduction. The cheese was also lovely.
