Introducing Lower Hunter Valley
The Hunter Valley is the oldest wine region in Australia, best known for its Semillon and Shiraz varieties. It’s incomparable to South Australia’s Barossa Valley, so don’t be a vino snob (it appears there are many in Australia) and try to play the two off.
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Vines were first planted here in the 1820s; by the 1860s there were 20 sq km under cultivation. A Hunter sparkling wine made its way to Paris in 1855 and was favourably compared to the French product. However, most Hunter wineries gradually declined, and it wasn’t until the 1960s that wine making again became an important industry; perhaps that’s the root of all this tribal loyalty. Old perceptions die hard in Australia.
The Hunter has an important ace up its sleeve: these wineries are refreshingly attitude-free and welcoming of viticulturists and novices alike.
There are over 140 wineries in the total area, so it can be a little overwhelming. The rigid few will grab a copy of the Hunter Valley Wine Country Visitor Guide. The rest will get to know the biggies, and then go looking for the boutiques. ‘Explore. Dream. Discover.’
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
