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[Herald Economy=Reporter Ham Young-hoon] The New South Wales Tourism Board, already busy promoting Sydney and its scenic outskirts to Korean travelers, is now shining a spotlight on Hunter Valley — the food-and-wine escape that’s quietly become a favorite among Koreans.
May ushers in autumn and the harvest season Down Under. Vivid Sydney (May 22–June 13) opened on the 22nd, and the pristine ecological pockets outside the city — including Hunter Valley — are bursting with fresh produce and wines coming into season.
According to the New South Wales Tourism Board on the 23rd, Hunter Valley sits about a two-hour drive north of Sydney. It’s a place of sweeping vineyards and peaceful countryside where you can pair world-class wines with thoughtful, locally driven cuisine.
Hunter Valley is the birthplace of Australia’s wine industry and has earned global acclaim for premium varieties like Semillon and Shiraz. With more than 150 cellar doors, the region offers a rich variety of tasting experiences, while innovative restaurants put local ingredients front and center.
The area isn’t just for tastings. You can slow down and soak up nature — think live music among the vines, indulgent spa treatments, and serene scenery that together create unforgettable moments for visitors, the tourism board says.
More than 150 wineries dot Hunter Valley, each with its own personality and traditions. Beyond the classic Semillon and Shiraz, you’ll find award-winning Chardonnays, Verdelho with its gentle sweetness and fresh notes, and crisp sparkling wines that have become a true local calling card.
Tyrrell’s Wines, at 1838 Broke Road, is a cornerstone of Australia’s wine history. Founded in 1858, it’s famed for “Vat 47,” a bottling credited with fueling Australia’s Chardonnay boom. Tyrrell’s remains strong in Semillon and Chardonnay.
Brokenwood Wines, on McDonald Road, launched in 1970 and has evolved into a modern premium winery with one of Hunter Valley’s most stylish tasting rooms. It’s renowned for both Shiraz and Semillon.
McGuigan Wines on Broke Road is a family-run winery with a history stretching more than a century and a trophy case of international awards. It offers hands-on tasting experiences that let visitors learn about the winemaking process, and it’s known for Shiraz, Semillon and blended wines.
Mount Pleasant Wines, at 401 Maerowonbon Road, was founded in 1921 by the legendary winemaker Maurice O’Shea and helped shape Australia’s dry table-wine tradition. Its specialties include Semillon and Shiraz.
Audrey Wilkinson, at 750 Debevyas Road, dates back to 1866. This historic winery sits on a hillside with sweeping views — a perfect spot to unwind with warm hospitality while sampling Semillon, Shiraz and other Hunter Valley offerings.
Hunter Valley also stands out for its hands-on activities beyond the cellar doors.
Sunrise hot-air balloon flights are a signature experience here. Seeing Hunter Valley from the sky at dawn reveals a whole new perspective — floating above endless rows of vines as the sun rises is a truly premium way to take in the wine country. Operators such as Balloon Aloft and Beyond Ballooning run flights, and many packages include a champagne breakfast after landing.
Riding stables and working farms nestled in the valley’s dramatic scenery offer tailored programs for everyone — from beginners to experienced riders. Options include trail rides, pony experiences, picnics and sunset rides. On a 300-acre property you can spot native wildlife like kangaroos and wombats, enjoy tractor hayrides, feed farm animals and zoom around in pedal go-karts — ideal for families.
Off-road adventures at Hunter Farm & Adventure Centre include Segway tours along an old 5.5 km cattle track that winds through forest, historic Shiraz vineyards and kangaroo-populated grasslands. Tours run in 40- and 70-minute options and welcome beginners, offering a fresh way to explore the valley. The center also features archery, axe-throwing, clay shooting and more.[Reporting assistance=NSW Tourism Board]
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