Cultures from across the world all choose to celebrate marriage in different ways. For some people, it’s a drawn-out and elaborate soiree that continues for days on end. For others, it’s more of a short and wild burst of energy that you have to be there to truly understand. Hen’s parties are no different.
While each person has their own idea of the perfect hen’s party, the aim of the game is always to celebrate the soon-to-be-bride and the next chapter in her love story. At Wicked Hens, we think that’s worth making a toast to! Rather than just getting the girls together for a drink at your local pub or bar, we’ve got something a little more decadent in mind.
Fancy a day at a winery? Or more specifically a day spent sipping your way through a seemingly endless number of world-class wineries? As Australia’s oldest wine region, the Hunter Valley has been a gourmet food and wine destination for centuries. With exceptional grapes, boutique breweries, chic cellar doors, bountiful vineyards and mouth-watering venues, it’s unforgettable to say the least!
The beauty of a winery tour for your hen’s party, is that you’ll have the opportunity to bring everyone together over a drink, without having to worry about who is playing designated driver. There are plenty of buses or tour groups that can take your from spot and spot, and the Wicked Hen’s team is here to help make that all come to life.
To make the most of your hen’s wine party, we’ve curated a list of our favourite Hunter Valley wineries to visit. You can thank us later. Read on to discover the top 5 wineries in the Hunter Valley.
Found smack bang in the middle of Pokolbin, Pepper Tree Wines is a cellar door like no other. This rustic yet ultra stylish destination is designed to offer the quintessential Hunter Valley wine experience for groups of all sizes and taste preferences.
The brains behind this venue specialise in single vineyard wines and during your time here, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy up to six wines of your choosing. After selecting your drops, the expert team will curate a perfectly paired selection of cheese and olives to go with your tasting. When combined with the cellar’s leafy setting, it’s a truly unforgettable experience.
Address – 86 Halls Road, Pokolbin
While the wine is undoubtedly what calls most people to the Hunter Valley, the region is also known for the impressive food it serves up. If you’d like to pair your wine with a meal that you’ll still be dreaming about months down the track, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better option than Margan Wine and Restaurant.
This venue offers a range of limited release wines, which are all grown and produces from the 100 hectares of sustainably farmed Margan vineyards. The menu also includes a range of casual dining options, which you can nibble on as you make your way through your wine flight. Alternatively, you can find something a little heartier at the acclaimed one hat restaurant.
Address – 1238 Milbrodale Road, Broke
This is one for the history lovers out there. Tyrrell is absolutely steeped in rich culture and provides an absolutely exceptional winery experience. This oasis-like setting is home to a cellar door, relaxed winery tours, barrel tastings, and masterclasses.
During your time here, be sure to check out the winemakers wall for a veritable who’s who of Aussie viticulture. While the reds and whites are simply divine, it’s the chardonnay that truly won our hearts. We should warn you though, you may not be able to stop at just a glass or two of these bubbles!
Address – 1838 Broke Road, Pokolbin
Winmark Wines is a name you won’t want to forget. If you’re a lover of chardonnay, this place has your name all over it! The fresh and light bubbles are simply too delicious to describe and need to be tasted to be truly appreciated.
The next level glasses of bubbles are served around the fire-pit, which overlooks the property’s impeccably landscaped gardens. There’s also a majestic steel sculpture perched by the wines, which was crafted by celebrated sculptor, David Ball. During the warmer months of the year, you’ll also have the opportunity to spread out a picnic rug and enjoy your bubbles on the lawns while watching the world go by. What’s not to love about that?
Address – 229 Wollombi Road, Broke
Despite what the name might suggest, Brokenwood Wines are far from broken! In fact, they might just be as close to perfection as we’ve ever tasted. After a serious make-over, the new cellar door is now a truly architectural masterpiece that radiates elegance and sophistication at every opportunity. The timber finishes give the venue a modern feel, while the lush outlook maintains a strong connection to the local region.
Here, wine tasting ranges from $25 to $110, depending on what your budget and palate sit. There are also plenty of different experiences to choose from on the menu and friendly faces behind the bar to help walk you through every step of the tasting journey.
Address – 401 – 427 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin
Whether you’re celebrating your hen’s party with just a few girlfriends or you’ve invited your entire family, a winery tour is one of the best ways to bring everyone together and create a lifetime supply of memories to look back on for years to come. If you’re ready to start planning a customised winery tour for you or your friend, contact the Wicked Hen’s team today. We can’t wait to hear from you!
Choose your activities and accommodation to create the ultimate hens weekend