DECEMBER 2012 THB

THE

Celebration ISSUE

www.thehunterblackboard.com

THE

B L A C K B O A R D The No.1 magazine for visitors to Hunter Valley Wine Country

DECEMBER 2012

SPARKLING WINES LET’S CELEBRATE OUR

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS Spectacular AT HUNTER

VALLEY GARDENS

TRADITIONAL FARE A SWEET MATCH FOR

CAROLS AT THE GARDENS SING-ALONG WITH SANTA

MAKING A DIFFERENCE LOCAL MARKET STALLS

THB DECEMBER 2012

F O R Y O U R DIARY

1ST TO 31ST DECEMBER CHRISTMAS NATIVITY EXHIBITION at Morpeth Gallery The annual Christmas Na vity Exhibi on commences on the 3rd of November at Morpeth Gallery. Throughout the exhibi on you’ll discover hundred’s of na vi es in all shapes and sizes, made from all manner of materials – glass, wood, resin, n, ceramic, po ery. Light-ups, musicals, modern and tradi onal—every one of the na vi es is for sale. Visit www.morpethgallery.com.au

MONDAY 31ST DECEMBER NEW YEARS EVE at Hunter Valley Gardens Bring in the new year at the Hunter Valley Gardens and enjoy the night with the en re family. Enjoy the Christmas Lights Spectacular, live entertainment, amusement rides and the best fireworks in the Valley! Visit www.hvg.com.au for more informa on

9TH NOVEMBER TO 26TH JANUARY CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SPECTACULAR at Hunter Valley Gardens This is a magical event the whole family will enjoy! Exci ng new displays and over a million Christmas lights on show throughout designated areas of Hunter Valley Gardens. Including special guest Santa, entertainment with fes ve food and beverages available for purchase on site. Also have your photo taken with Santa by a professional photographer. Village Shops and Cafes open late on selected evenings. Special night rates apply. Visit www.hvg.com.au

MONDAY 31ST DECEMBER THIRSTY MERC DO NEW YEARS EVE at Harrigan’s Irish Pub One of Australia's most recognised bands, THIRSTY MERC will bring 2013 in with a bang this New Years Eve at Harrigan’s. Book early as this looks to be a sell out event. Visit www.harrigans.com.au for more informa on and to purchase ckets.

SATURDAY 8TH DECEMBER CAROLS AT THE GARDENS at Hunter Valley Gardens Village Green Join us for this community event and experience the wonder and spirit of Christmas under the stars. Featuring all the old favourites, everyone is invited to come along and enjoy the show. Even the jolly gentleman Santa will make a special appearance. A spectacular fireworks display will finish off the night and is sure to delight all who a end. Held in the Village picnic area behind Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village. For more info visit www.hvg.com.au

SUNDAY 16TH NOVEMBER SACRED TREE MARKETS at Branxton If you’ve le your Christmas shopping to the last minute then this is the place to be! These markets have taken the Hunter Valley by storm and it’s no surprise—the organisers are commi ed to bringing the community good quality organic foods, arts, handmade goods, fun for the kids and the perfect coffee! The markets are held at the Old St Brigids School Grounds on the corner of Sta on Street & the New England Hwy at Branxton. For further informa on visit ww.sacredtreemarkets.com.au.

THURSDAY 6TH DECEMBER SCOTTISH WHISKY DEGUSTATION DINNER at Wandin Hunter Valley Wandin invites you to join the 'Whisky Ambassador' in a celebra on of good food, entertainment and great whisky. An evening of tradi onal Sco sh cuisine matched with single malt and blended whiskies that have been hand selected by the Ambassador himself; Mr James Bun n. Bring your evening to life, filled with unforge able experiences that include bagpipes, haggis and whisky! Visit www.wandinhuntervalley.com.au

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SATURDAY 8TH DECEMBER A DAY ON THE GREEN PRESENT SIMPLE MINDS & DEVO at Bimbadgen. In what promises to be one of the most cap va ng tours of the year, Simple Minds and Devo will perform a day on the green shows as part of their na onal tour later this year. Joining them, and adding another highlight to savour, will be one of Australia’s finest, The Church and eclec c 80s popsters Models, led by Sean Kelly. For more info visit www.adayonthegreen.com.au

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T H I N G S T O D O I N DECEMBER

On the 23rd of November “Home” an exhibi on bringing together four female ar sts who explore the idea of home, took residence at Cessnock Regional Art Gallery.

The exhibi on explores the idea of home. Is this a safe place? Is it warm and comfor ng? One would hope so. But the more you explore this exhibi on, the more you realise that nothing is ever as it seems. Every home bears a cross.

The JaM collec ve combines a soundscape with an eerily swaying, suspended room, asking visitors to ques on the very fabric of places which were once that of solace.

Dr Melissa Laird creates shrines of eerily assembled mementos, pieced together from found objects to create a Grandma’s cabinet of hoarded trinkets. Specimen-like organs by Tammie Castles capture memories of Cessnock’s coal mining past, ques oning what happens when a community loses the industry that created it.

The ar sts of Home were selected by Cessnock Regional Art Galleries previous director Virginia Mitchell from the 2011 Sculpture in the vineyards exhibi on. She felt that each ar st had a uniquely playful sensibility and that all the selected ar sts had created a subtle but powerful experience through their installa ons in the vineyards. Home will con nue through to December 21st.

For more informa on visit www.crag.net.au.

COMING HOME TO OUR REGIONAL ART GALLERY

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F O R Y O U R DIARY 24TH DECEMBER. Try a tradi onal Christmas Eve Feast at Emma’s of Lovedale this Christmas. There’s a choice of two menus...tradi onal European and tradi onal Australian. Priced at just $78pp, diners can choose from a delicious set menu featuring dishes such as roasted pork with crisp pork belly and a house-made apple & pear relish, ente mit rotkraut und bratkartoffeln (which we have on good authority translates to Duck Confit with Red Cabbage) and of course no meal would be complete without a tradi onal Christmas pudding with creme anglaise. Enjoy your meal with a drop of Emmas Co age wines. For bookings call 4998-7333.

31ST DECEMBER. Visit Esca Bimbadgen for the Beach Party to end all beach par es! Enjoy canapes and sparkling on arrival followed by a four course feast and Bimbadgen Sparkling wine at midnight to toast the New Year! Live entertainment from 'Whiskey Tango Foxtrot' will provide the grooviest NYE party playlist as we welcome in 2013. For more informarion and bookings visit www.bimbadgen.com.au.

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MAGICAL FAMILY EVENT CHRISTMAS LIGHTS 2012

Every year the Hunter Blackboard team visit the Christmas Lights Spectacular at Hunter Valley Gardens on opening night, and every year we decide (pre-visit) that there is no possible way they could be be er than last year. I’m pleased to say that we are wrong—again!

Over 250,000 lights have been added to this year’s Christmas Lights Spectacular at Hunter Valley Gardens ensuring that the event, with over 1.25 million lights in total is certainly the best yet! The Gardens have been filled with vibrant colour, incredible light and sound displays and are open every night un l Saturday 26th January, 2013 (excluding Christmas Day and night).

Now in its sixth year, Christmas Lights Spectacular is the largest lights display in the Southern Hemisphere making it a must see for the en re family and a great way to kick start the fes ve season.

Hunter Valley Gardens General Manager, Kyle McKendry says, “This year is bigger, brighter and be er than previous years. We have live entertainment for all ages, delicious food and wine and more Christmas lights than ever illumina ng the Gardens.” The Twelve Days of Christmas music and light display in the Border Garden, the cactus musical extravaganza and the three mega trees that are an incredible 12, 9 and 6 metres high are sure to amaze visitors. There are also light and music displays throughout the Storybook Garden and the greatest story ever told at the na vity scene. Even the “Rockin’ Trees” have got their groove going, and this year they’re doing the Gangham Style!

Gates will open nightly from 6.30pm, with pre-lights entertainment and food stalls. The lights display will commence at 7.30pm.

ENTRY TO CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SPECTACULAR

Adult $20.00 Children (4-15 yrs) $15.00

Children 3 yrs & Under FREE. Each child will receive a FREE glow s ck.

Family (2adults +2children) $60.00 Extra Child (with Family Pass) $5.00

Day/Night (Return) Adult $35.00 Day/Night (Return) Child $15.00

For more informa on visit www.hvg.com.au

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Celebra ng its 7th year, Carols at the Gardens is set to provide all who a end with a memorable Christmas experience on Saturday the 8th of December.

This free community event presented by Newcastle Permanent is one of the regions finest Carol’s events and will be staged in the Hunter Valley Gardens Village picnic grounds. This is located outside the display garden overlooking the magnificent Mountain Ranges.

Carols at the Gardens promises all who a end a special evening of entertainment with only the best performers and professional musicians. Even the jolly gentleman Santa will make a special appearance. A spectacular fireworks display will finish off the night and is sure to delight all who a end.

This year’s event is jam packed with fresh and fabulous talent. Carols regulars including Marty Worral, Caitlin Harne , Kristen Lane, Rachael Noakes, Amanda Barrass, Keryann McKi rick and Daniel Gordon will all be there to help those that a end to get into the Christmas spirit.

Roche Group General Manager, Kyle McKendry says, “Newcastle Permanent Carols at the Gardens is always a memorable community event for the whole family to a end. The event is now in its seventh year and is a great way to get the family together and into the Christmas spirit.”

For further informa on regarding the Newcastle Permanent Carols at the Gardens visit www.hvg.com.au or call 02 4998 4000.

S I N G - A L O N G W I T H S A N TA

CAROLS AT THE GARDENS 5PM—Pre Show Entertainment. Come along early and stake your picnic rug spot! Relax to the strains of local performers and the Australian Army band.

7.30PM—Main Show including the arrival of Santa—This year features Caitlin Harne , Kristen Lane, Marty Worrall, Daniel Gordon, Amanda Barrass, Rachael Noakes, Kerryann McKi rick, and a visit from Santa and much more...

9.30PM—Fireworks Display

The philosophy behind the food served at The Golden Door Health Retreat Elysia in the Hunter Valley is rela vely simple, the aim being to create ‘good food for good results’ and they ensure it can be easily recreated at home.

The delicious cuisine is low fat, gourmet and primarily vegetarian. The absence of processed foods, preserva ves, addi ves, ar ficial colourings or flavouring and heavy animal proteins lessens the toxic load on the body and leaves you feeling lighter and energised.

Head Chef, Corryne Parkhill is extremely passionate about healthy food and making a difference to people’s health and wellbeing. “The Golden Door not only teaches you the art of healthy cooking, but the art of a healthy lifestyle, it teaches you healthy mind, body and spirit. It is a challenge for most chefs to cook without fat, low salt and no sugar. I love the challenge, not only to help change other people’s lives, but to change my view of the food world." says Corryne.

Corryne also presents an entertaining and educa onal cooking demonstra on each week for guests at the Retreat.

The Golden Door Health Retreats are famous for their health and Wellness programs, guiding and educa ng guests on healthy lifestyle choices to enhance their lives. The real surprise for most people is how fantas c the food is and that healthy can be great tas ng and fulfilling. For more informa on please contact info@elysia.com.au or visit the open day on Wednesday 12th December.

HEALTHY FOOD... Healthy Mind. Body & Spirit

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The Hunter Dis llery team, a er spending the last 12 months scouring the world to find the best organic chilli to infuse into our premium organic vodka, are now onto a winner.

A er hundreds of prototypes, Hunter Dis llery have finally formulated a winning premium organic Chilli Vodka which will be available for sale from December.

The Chilli Vodka will complement the Dis llery’s range of premium organic vodkas; which includes Green Apple, Vanilla, Premium and the interna onal gold award winning Lemon Myrtle Vodka.

If the Chilli Vodka is too hot, try the dis llery’s Chilli Schnapps which is a unique blend of

Bu erscotch Schnapps and Chilli. What a great Christmas Gi !

The Hunter Dis llery is located at 1686 Broke Road Pokolbin and is open 7 Days from 10am to 5pm or visit www.HunterDis llery.com.au

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DECEMBER 2012 THB

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Tradi onal holiday fare is notoriously hard to pair with wine. Between turkey or ham and all the trimmings from fruity to earthy, not to men on sweet desserts like Christmas pudding and mince pies...

So with Christmas fast approaching, there is no be er me to start planning the Christmas dinner and selec ng what wines to complement the feast.

Even though it's a bit more flavorsome than chicken, turkey is s ll open to the imagina on when it comes to wine pairing - especially when it comes to taking into considera on the sauces and side dishes that can influence the type of wine to pair with. Many people make the mistake of assuming red is the way to go with turkey. However, the truth is that white wines are just as likely to work.

The big ques on is which wines will suit the variety of tastes, textures and aromas that present themselves during the typical Christmas dinner? Should you choose a single wine to carry the dinner from entrée to desserts .. . Or should you choose several wines to emphasis the varying courses and also cater to a variety of palates?

From entrées, to white and dark turkey meat, baked potatoes, herb-filled stuffing, cranberry relish, pickled this and peppered that, all the way to the Christmas pudding or Christmas cake – is there truly a single wine that can take you seamlessly from start to finish?

Enter, sparkling wines - an increasingly popular pairing partner that brings both elegance and great food-pairing versa lity to virtually any meal, but at Christmas these wines really stand out.

The pairing of wine with food always comes down to personal preferences; however, some safe bets for Christmas are Pinot Noir and Shiraz (Syrah) for red wine lovers, and Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Riesling and Pinot Grigio / Pinot Gris for those who prefer white wines. With white wines the pairing priority is finding a wine with well-balanced acidity and with reds you are aiming for fairly tame tannins that will support the flavors of the food. If you have yet to decide on a dessert wine for the meal - the honeyed richness of a late-harvest wine can be perfect with any Christmas meal. For the meal itself try...

Best Christmas Celebra on White Wines

Riesling: A white wine that may either be bone dry or fairly sweet, excellent with any dishes that are spicy, salty or sweet. Riesling wines are a top pick white wine for pairing with Christmas lunches or dinners and perfect pair with sweet potatoes, turkey meat and spice-laden or herb-filled stuffing. Our Pick: 2011 Pokolbin Estate Vineyard Hunter Riesling

Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp white wine is known for its citrus-based flavours that can make it a prime pairing candidate for turkey and baked potatoes. Our Pick: Bimbadgen Regions (Tas) 2011 Sauvignon Blanc

Pinot Grigio (Pinot Gris): Capable of handling garlic and onions, herbs and rich, flavourful, high-fat dishes, this white wine is a natural for the demands of Christmas Day. Our pick: Adina Vineyard's 2011 Estate Pinot Grigio.

Viognier: While it may not always be a ''top of mind'' wine choice, this white wine has perfect pairing power with a Christmas Day dinner. Our pick: Wandin HV 2011 Viognier - Wandin Hunter Valley

Top Red Wine Christmas Celebra on Op ons

Pinot Noir: This red wine is a tradi onal favourite for Christmas Day. Pinot Noir’s subtle earthy undertones tend to show well with the tradi onal flavours of turkey and stuffing. Our pick: DenMar Estate 2009 Pinot Noir

Shiraz: The Shiraz grape can bring a spicy edge or a meaty character to the table. The o en peppery notes of Shiraz will partner well with the herb-infused stuffing and both the white and dark turkey meat. Our pick: First Creek 2010 Shiraz

Rosé: Rosé wines, are the perfect compromise for those that are not fixed on either red or white wine decisions. A drier selec on will be the most versa le for pairing with virtually any part of the Christmas feast. Our pick: Capercaillie 2011 Hunter Valley Rosé

A S W E E T M AT C H F O R

Traditional Fare

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PICK OF THE CROP Pierre’s Wines 2009 Méthode Tradi onelle Chardonnay/ Pinot Noir. Dosage: ZD, Cuvée 936

An excellent aperi f style made from 65% Chardonnay and 35% Pinot noir grapes. This classic sparkling wine is clean and refreshing. The current release is from the excellent 2009 vintage with an addi onal 36 months maturing on yeast lees in the bo le. The “ZD” stands for Zero Dosage. We believe this wine is so fine it needs no addi on of sugar at disgorging. Cellar Door Price: $40.

LET’S CELEBRATE OUR Sparkling Whatever the occasion, we have adopted the habit of celebra ng with sparkling wine and are reaching for this ''bubbly wine'' like never before. So brace yourself for the sound of enthusias c cork popping as we get down to the business end of the bubbles this fes ve season ... A li le known fact, and something most appreciators of sparkling wine would not be aware of, is that sparkling wines were originally winemaking accidents. It would occur when the winemaker, whilst in the process of making wine, would bo le and seal the wine thinking the fermenta on process was complete. But, when sugar was s ll present in the bo le, along with a few living yeast cells, a second fermenta on would occur and because the bo le was sealed, the carbon dioxide gas would be trapped and when the bo le was opened the wine would be effervescent (bubbling) as well as cloudy from the yeast residue. While drinkers came to love the gassy wine, they were less happy with the cloudiness. However, the science behind the secondary fermenta on was not well understood - some mes the wines had insufficient gas, and some mes too much gas resul ng in exploding bo les! Fortunately modern winemakers are able to manage the process and you can be confident in the quality of modern sparkling wines. The best, and most expensive wines are made by the méthode tradi onelle, which is how all French Champagne is made. With this method the effervescence for more complex wines is produced by secondary fermenta on in the bo le itself..

The cheaper and less interes ng sparkling wines are produced by a variety of methods - one being a process similar to making soda water. The aromas and flavours of true méthode tradi onelle wines come not only from the variety of grapes used, but also from the yeast in the bo le. These yeast derived characters can be described as bready, doughy and toasty. The longer the yeast are in contact with the wine, the more intense and complex these yeasty characters will become. At Pierre’s Wines we never release a wine with less than two years bo le matura on “on lees” and our range of sparkling wines are made by the authen c méthode tradi onelle. In addi on our wines are completely processed by hand. The a en on to detail is shown by the delicacy and clarity of the aromas. By careful pressing in our stainless steel basket press we achieve a so ness which allows our wines to be enjoyed without the addi on of high sugar concentra ons at disgorging. There is no compromise in our methods. Pierre’s Wines may be one of the smallest producers in the Hunter, but our range of sparkling and table wines is one that we are proud of. We usually have at least five different sparkling wines available for tas ng at our cellar door, from zero dosage aperi f styles through to sparkling reds. At Pierre’s Wines you can talk with the winemaker and see how our passion for sparkling wines is reflected in the premium product.

Wines Contributed by: Peter Went of Pierre's Wines at Branxton - Specialists in true

Méthode Tradi onelle Sparkling Wines

Pierre’s Wines 2009 Méthode Tradi onelle; Chardonnay/Pinot noir Rosé, Dosage: 5g/L, Cuvée 936

Made from the classic combina on of grape varie es, the rosé shows lovely red berry nuances from the pinot noir component. The delicate pink colour enhances the fine train of bubbles and the mousse. This wine is more fruity and so er than the other sparkling wines in our range. A complex wine that can be enjoyed at any me! Cellar Door Price: $40.

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B E H I N D T H E

CELLAR DOOR

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December marks the start of Summer and bunches of grapes are now very obvious on the vine although green and hard with very li le sugar and high in organic acids. At this me of the year, vi culturists and vineyard managers are predominantly concerned with vine and fruit protec on - protec ng the grapes from birds and insects. This is the period when véraison, or berry colora on and so ening, typically begins and the grower starts to es mate the total amount of fruit for the current vintage. The winemaker then uses this informa on to calculate how much tank and barrel space will be needed once the grapes are harvested. .

Here are some of the latest happenings on the local Wine Scene.

Mul -award winning wine producer McGuigan Wines has claimed the tle of ‘world’s best winemaker’ for the third me in four years at the

pres gious Interna onal Wine & Spirit Compe on (IWSC) in London. Having already won the award in 2009 and 2011, McGuigan Wines was awarded the tle of Interna onal Winemaker of the Year at the awards ceremony in central London on 14th November.

In addi on to three Interna onal Winemaker of the Year trophies, in the last four years McGuigan Wines has been named Australian Producer of the Year by the IWSC in 2009, 2011 and 2012, as well the ‘world’s best white winemaker’ by the Interna onal Wine Challenge (IWC) in London in 2009 and 2012.

First Creek Wines have launched their new Wine School - ''The World in a Glass'' - to complement their free daily winery tours at 10:30am. Tours run for 30 minutes each day from 10:30am, or con nue straight to the wine school to gain a deeper insight into wine and the flavours that make the Hunter Valley unique. Classes are $50 per head, which includes all course notes and an opportunity to purchase any of the wines tasted at special prices, plus all par cipants receive a $20 voucher to spend on wine from the course or at the First Creek cellar door. Phone: 4998 2992 to book.

For Those Who Like it Hot! The Hunter Dis llery team, a er spending the last 12 months scouring the world to find the best organic chilli to infuse into our premium organic vodka, are now on a winner with their new premium organic Chilli Vodka now available for sale. The Chilli Vodka complements the Dis llery’s range of premium organic vodkas; which includes Green Apple, Vanilla, Premium and the interna onal gold award winning Lemon Myrtle Vodka. Visit the Hunter Dis llery at 1686 Broke Road Pokolbin – Open Thursday to Sunday inclusive from 10am to 5pm. Phone: 4998-6737

McWilliams, one of Australia’s oldest family owned wineries, has scooped the prize pool at the 2012 Royal Adelaide Wine Show - considered the most highly regarded wine show in Australia, - a rac ng 2,862 entries from 386 wineries. McWilliams also took out the Most Outstanding Red or White Wine in Show trophy for its 2008 McWilliams 1877 Cabernet Shiraz – the wine also winning the Best Red Wine in Show and Tradi onal Australian Red Blend tles. The McWilliams’ 1877 Cabernet Shiraz also took out the pres gious Gramp, Hardy, Hill Smith Prize for Most Outstanding Wine of Provenance – the first me a winery has won both major tles.

Tyrrell's Vineyards took home the Finlaysons Trophy for Best Semillon in Show for their Vat 1 Semillon (2005) at the 2012 Royal Adelaide Wine Show

Gartelmann Wine Estate Benjamin 2009 Semillon won a trophy for the Winestate Top Semillon of the Year in Adelaide in November (overall winner). This superb wine just keeps on winning awards with other awards won this year including the 2012 Hunter Valley Wine Show (Gold); 2012 Winewise Small Vignerons Awards (Trophy); 2012 NSW Small Winemakers Awards (Trophy); 2012 Winestate tas ng – June Edi on of Winestate Magazine (5 Stars) and 2012 Cowra Wine show (Silver).

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For 27 years Mark Davidson - Managing Director and Chief Winemaker at Tamburlaine Organic Wines has been making fine wines from premium vineyards of Australia.

The winery was first established in 1966 in the renowned Pokolbin district of the Hunter Valley. In 1985, Mark and a small group of investors purchased the Hunter Valley based winery from its founder Dr Lance Allen, and set about turning Tamburlaine Organic Wines into Australia’s largest producer of labelled organic wine. In that same year, Mark (formerly an HR Trainer/Psychologist for the Australian Government), began working at this newly purchased winery in the Hunter Valley and took up the day to day responsibility for the whole business including winemaking and vi culture.

Today, the 47 year-old winery is one of the largest cer fied organic wineries in the Southern Hemisphere, based on 100 per cent organic and biodynamic farming, turning out upwards of 80,000 cases a year. A favourite brand with wine appreciators and wine cri cs, the winery was recently awarded a red five-star ra ng in James Halliday’s 2012 Australian Wine Companion, with seven of its wines given 94 points for outstanding quality.

Situated in Pokolbin, the vineyard includes vines that have been under cul va on since the mid 1960’s and currently total 50 hectares. In 1995, Tamburlaine expanded its produc on and quality base through the acquisi on of 90 hectares of prime vineyard land in the emerging cool climate wine region of Orange, Up to 70% of the annual produc on now comes from Orange.

The focus is on producing high quality wines with cu ng edge and environmentally sound produc on techniques. The success of the company is as much about Mark's sheer determina on and commitment to a vision of achieving excellence and the people behind the scenes, as it is the quality and value of the wine in the bo le. The company has an enviable record in the Australian domes c market with one of the largest wine clubs in Australia and the awards gained that include trophies and gold medals for red and white wines alike.

All vineyards in the Hunter Valley and Orange are cer fied with the Biological Farmers Federa on. However, Tamburlaine Organic Wines has taken things a step further, by integra ng an Environment Management System that includes strategies for water and waste management and energy saving techniques in the Pokolbin based winery. Such innova ons have halved the company's energy consump on (saving 740 tonnes of carbon pollu on) and savings of $110,000 per annum.

As a result the winery became the first cer fied carbon neutral winemaker in Australia and its efforts a rac ng interest in Japan, China, Sweden, Korea, Nepal and the USA - with the company now expor ng approximately 30% of its total sales to these countries.

F I V E S TA R ORGANIC WINES

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French-born Jean-Marc Pollet is the Execu ve Chef & Director of Food and Beverage at Mercure Resort Hunter Valley in Pokolbin - and an all round nice guy.

Born and raised in Calais, Jean Marc was admi ed to hotel school in Paris at the very young age of 15 where he did it rela vely tough - working long hours at the Grand Hotel in Paris, for minimum wages every weekend and then spending his weekdays studying.

Being on low wages meant he could only afford a small room on the top floor of a very cheap hotel in ''Rue Provence'' which was also very popular with the local pros tutes in the area. Despite the hardships, Jean Marc fell in love with Paris - cap vated by the fast pace of city living, its parks, museums, galleries and restaurants.

A er living in Paris for almost 5 years and having also completed his military service, Jean Marc le Paris to go to Toulouse where he worked for a few months in a small country restaurant, before moving to Monte Carlo where he was the Sous-Chef at the five star Beach Plaza Hotel. It was here in Monte Carlo that he fell in love with a French girl and got married. Unfortunately the marriage did not last - a period that Jean Marc recalls as being a hec c few years in his life.

A er Monte Carlo Jean Marc put his heart and soul into his career with a brief s nt in Geneva before travelling overseas to Australia where in 1985 he worked at the Hotel Regent Sydney before joining the Peppers Group where he was the Execu ve Chef at Peppers Guest House and then Peppers Anchorage un l 2008. He was then asked to join the Mercure Resort Hunter Valley as Execu ve Chef & Director of Food and Beverage.

While Pollet's background is French, his experiences in Europe and Asia have had a significant impact on his methods and menus with dis nc ve French, Mediterranean and Asian influences evident and flowing into the mix of his cooking.

His reputa on as a master chef is substan ated by the mul tude of awards he has won throughout his 30+ year career - winning the American Express award for Best Restaurant in the Hunter Region on 4 occasions and the Restaurant and Catering Associa on Restaurant of the Year award two years in a row. Jean Marc also took out the Catering Associa on Award for Best Restaurant in the Hunter Region three mes and in 2011 was the winner of the HMAA Award for Best Restaurant.

Jean Marc con nuously works on improving his culinary skills and knowledge - drawing inspira on from reading cookbooks and travelling overseas to try out different restaurants and foods. Jean Marc lives at the Bay and when not at work in the kitchen, he spends his spare me walking on the beach, gardening, fishing and crabbing and spending me in his boat apprecia ng the feeling of space and freedom.

FOCU

S O

N Jean Marc POLLET

EXECUTIVE CHEF & DIRECTOR OF FOOD & BEVERAGE MERCURE RESORT HUNTER VALLEY

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What’s new on our food scene...

Summer is here and seasonal menus reflect the change in temperature. This is the perfect me of the year to make the most of the warm December weather with a mid a ernoon lunch in view of the vines or dine al-fresco under the stars making the most of the warmer evenings.

Here are some of the latest happenings on the local Food Scene at this me of year.

Wandin Hunter Valley is hos ng a Classic Sco sh Degusta on Dinner on Thursday 6th December from 6pm - consis ng of tradi onal Sco sh cuisine matched with Malt & Blended Whiskies. The evening includes a five course degusta on dinner intertwined with Whiskeys from likes of Glenlivet, Glenmorangie, Talisker, Glenfiddich, and many more. The evening ends with decadent chocolate and a selec on of Whiskey Liqueur. Price: $90.00 pp. Ph: 4930 9888.

Fireside Sundays at Twine Restaurant! Join Adam and his team on Sunday evenings from 5.30pm - 7.30pm and receive a Mezze plate, a selec on of meats plus sides followed by dessert for just $45 pp (kids under 12 eat free). To book phone 4998 7449

Locals Night at The Verandah Restaurant - Sunday the 2nd and Tuesday 4th December, "Christmas Treats". Starts at 6:30pm with complimentary canapés and bubbles, followed by a 5 coarse Tapas Style degusta on. $50 per person BYO No corkage. Ph: 4998 7231.

Locals Night at Roberts Restaurant - every Tuesday and Wednesday night... Mul -award winning Execu ve Chef George Francisco has created a specials locals night menu for these always popular dinners. Ph: 4998 7330.

Recently opened Boy O Boy Restaurant at Tempus Two Winery provides ''food with a French twist'' and is now offering ''Mystery Vineyard Lunches''. Chefs Ben and Peter use fresh daily ingredients to compose a mystery 3 course menu on the day for just $45 - matching wines $15. Ph: 4998 6980

Harry's at Tatler in Lovedale is celebra ng Summer with ice cold ''dirty granny'' mature cider - a full bodied crushed apple cider that works well with their simple chef cra ed food. Ph: 4930 9139

Esca Bimbadgen is serving up High Tea - 7 days a week from 3pm to 5pm. $40 for two people or $50 for two people with a glass of Bimbadgen Sparkling Semillon or Rose. Ph: 4998 4666

Hunter Valley voted No. 1 by food and wine lovers ! The Hunter Valley was voted as the ''Top Food and Wine Region in Australia'' in the Telegraph poll. Receiving almost a quarter of the votes (24.27%). Margaret River was voted in second (source: The Telegraph).

For a comprehensive list of local restaurants, dining reviews and food and wine trail maps for each of the 5 key wine growing areas - see the latest issue of Wine & Dine in the Hunter or visit www.wineanddineguides.com.

CHRISTMAS FARE IN THE HUNTER! Roberts Restaurant - Roberts are offering an all day Christmas

Day dining op on star ng around midday and going into the evening with a 7 course menu priced at $185 per person.

Ph: 4998 7330. Hunter Valley Steakhouse: open Christmas Eve and Christmas

Day with a 5 course tradi onal lunch $119 per adult and children $49 (ages 5 - 12) and $69 (ages 13-16). Ph: 4998 2000

Emmas at Lovedale - Open New Years Eve and offering a tradi onal European and Australian influenced menu.

Ph: 4998 7449 Blaxlands Restaurant - Open Christmas Eve. Ph: 4998 7550

Emerson's at Pokolbin are open on Christmas Eve from 11am to 3pm. Ph: 4998 7733

Harry's at Tatler: Open for Christmas Eve - serving lunch. Ph: 4930 9139

Esca Bimbadgen: Open for Christmas Eve - serving lunch. Ph: 4998 4666

Harrigan's Irish Pub: Open Christmas Eve. Ph: 4998 4300 Po ers - Brickworks Brasserie: Open Christmas Eve.

Ph: 4991 7922

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Boy-O-Boy restaurant in the Hunter Valley is fast gaining a reputa on for providing diners with fantas c food and at great prices. Run and managed by two chefs extraordinaire - the ''boys'' Ben and Peter who opened the restaurant just 3 months ago, this highly popular and trendy restaurants is one of the more recent dining establishments to enter the local food scene.

Both ''boys'' declare themselves to be passionate about fresh food with a specialty for revamping classic French cuisine. Ben was raised on the northern beaches of Sydney and is the son of renown Australian chef Mark Armstrong, while Peter was born and raised in Manly on Sydney's Northern beaches.

Ben started his career with his father at a very young age at Armstrong's North Sydney before commencing his appren ceship at Bathers Pavilion under Serge Dansereau. It is here that both Peter and Ben trained together before both deciding to join Bistro Marlo - another restaurant in the Armstrong family.

Looking for overseas experience, Ben then travelled to France to work with world renowned chefs the Pourcel Brothers where he worked as one of their execu ve chefs for almost 6 years, opening several restaurants around the world in ci es that include Beirut, Bangkok, Shanghai, Saigon, Hanoi, Abu Dhabi, and New York along with many other restaurants throughout France.

Peter went on to work at the trendy Will and Toby’s in Darlinghurst and Nu’s (Thai) Restaurant in McMahons Point in Sydney while also teaching at Hostec College in Sydney - a market leading provider to the hospitality, tourism and leisure industries.

Ben returned to Australia inspired by the me he spent in France and overseas, and mo vated to put to use all the wonderful flavours and techniques he had discovered whilst travelling. Together with their shared love and apprecia on of fine food and wines Ben and Peter came up with the concept ''Boy-O-Boy'' - serving ''French food with a twist'' at a small trendy venue they established at Tempus Two in Pokolbin.

When not in the kitchen - Peter and Ben love going to Sydney to eat in the new hip and happening restaurants and cook extremely luxurious barbecued meals at home.

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For decades the Hunter Valley has been a place to enjoy a midweek break or a weekend away in the country enjoying some of the world class wines available through the 120 plus cellar doors. Today however, the Hunter Valley offers the visitor so much more! The Hunter Valley is now one of the most exci ng des na ons for ‘foodies’ in Australia, with a growing number of award winning and ‘ha ed’ restaurants, celebrated chefs, culinary innova on and an extensive range of locally grown and produced gourmet produce. The problem for today’s visitor is purely being spoilt for choice. The old adage “so much to do...so li le me” has never been more relevant to visitors than right now. With your copy of the latest Wine & Dine in the Hunter in hand you can now easily choose a restaurant or cellar door close to where you are located or enjoy exploring one of the 6 wine and food trail maps detailed in this exci ng new publica on. Inves gate your chosen dining des na on using the dining reviews, or read about the latest ''top drop'' or celebrated chef. Alterna vely choose a wine tour, wine school, or simply sit back, relax and learn something about the history of the Hunter region and the various wine growing areas making up the Hunter

Valley's wine country. Wine & Dine in the Hunter makes it so much easier and pleasurable to explore the Hunter Valley, with a conveniently sized publica on that is divided into the respec ve wine growing regions and accompanied by handy, easy to use and prac cal maps. If you’re s ll in the planning stage of your next visit to the Hunter Valley or you prefer to read digitally there’s a web-site, interac ve on-line publica on and mobile digital publica on—all available for download. Visit the fully interac ve digital version at www.wineanddineguides.com or scan the QR code (see le ) to use on your iPhone, iPad and Android devices. No ma er how you like to read it, pick up your copy today, and enjoy some of the best wine and food experiences the Hunter has to offer.

P U T T I N G T H E H U N T E R palm of your hand! in the

M A R K E T S TA L L SNow well established on the local calendar the Sacred Tree Markets are held on the third Sunday of every month. The variety and quan ty of stalls has expanded rapidly since the first market day back in September. Stalls that par cularly took our interest were those whose proceeds were used to the be erment of others less fortunate than ourselves….

Cheka-Cheka means "giggle" in Swahili and the stall Cheka Cheka Kids sells beau ful children’s and baby clothing and accessories. Not only do they strive to make your infant happy but they also share some of that happiness to children in rural Kenya by providing employment opportuni es in rural areas and funding projects aimed at providing relief for disadvantaged children in western Kenya.

Around the world to India where, Calcu a is home to some of the poorest communi es in the world. Many young women live in the

various slums near the railway tracks and life is a daily struggle to feed and clothe their families. Shelano was established out of a desire to bring freedom to these women. They train and employ these local women, giving them the dignity and independence they need for a brighter future. Products produced and sold at the markets include bags, cards, aprons, baby wraps and throws.

Of course, these are only two of over 70 stalls on offer at Sacred Tree markets. There’s a plethora of fantas c gi s and homewares and plenty to fill your Christmas hampers with including James Estate and Partridge Wines. Sample the yummy delights of Fantasy Cupcakes or find out what your future holds and have your palm read!

Sacred Tree Markets are held the third Sunday of every month at the Old St Brigid’s School on the new England Highway at Branxton. For more info visit www.sacredtreemarkets.com.au.

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THROUGHOUT JANUARY—Take the MORPETH HERITAGE WALK at Morpeth Hunter Valley The integra on of wri en history with the crea ve

les you see as you explore the walk work to breath life into historically significant sites of years gone by. Experience the transforma on of Morpeth as you take a trip back in me and discover the fascina ng differences between the se lement of Morpeth as it once was, to the buzzing township it has become today. Pick up a guide from the Maitland Tourism Informa on Centre before you set out or download from VisitMorpeth.com

It’s time to get out of the city and relax! Let the stresses of the silly season melt away as you put your feet up and relax in the beautiful Hunter Valley. When you’ve recovered, put your feet back on the ground and get out and about to discover the Hunter Valley at it’s summer-time best! Until January 26th 2013. CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SPECTACULAR at Hunter Valley Gardens What be er me to get back to the Gardens and see the Christmas Lights one last me before they’re packed up and stored away for next Christmas! Exci ng new displays and over a million Christmas lights on show throughout designated areas of Hunter Valley Gardens. Village Shops and Cafes open late on selected evenings. Special night rates apply. Visit www.hvg.com.au Sunday 20th January 2013. SACRED TREE MARKETS at Branxton Sacred Tree Markets has a commitment to bringing the best of the Hunter & beyond together in one place. Here you’ll find organic foods, arts, handmade goods, fun for the kids and the perfect coffee! The markets are held at the Old St Brigids School Grounds on the corner of Sta on Street & the New England Hwy at Branxton. For further informa on visit ww.sacredtreemarkets.com.au.

18th to 27th January 2013. AUSTRALIA DAY at Bimbadgen. Keep an eye out on the Bimbadgen website for Australia Day Celebra ons within the Bimbadgen Cellar Door and Esca Bimbadgen restaurant www.bimbadgen.com.au

Monday 28th January 2013. WOLLOMBI AUSTRALIA DAY MARKETS at Wollombi Sales

Yards. Held each Long Weekend Monday in historic Wollombi, this market boasts over 100 stalls, including local produce and cra s, plants, clothes, tools, bric-a-brac and much more. A variety of food is available at

the market and from the cafes and the tavern in the Wollombi village. Visit

www.wollombimarkets.com.

24th January un l 24th February 2013. ART TRAIL at Cessnock Regional Art Gallery. An exhibi on of work by professional members of the lower Hunter Art Trail group. For more informa on visit www.crag.net.au.

T H I N G S T O D O I N . . .

Just a half hour from Wine Country, along the banks of the Hunter River, lies the historic village of Morpeth. Once the largest inland river port in NSW, it was the gateway to inland Australia and is now classified by the National Trust. Wander down cobbled streets to find colonial sandstone buildings occupied by modern inviting cafes, pubs, galleries, boutiques and antique shops....

D E S T I N AT I O N MORPETH

Australian Alpaca Barn offers a wide range of quality alpaca fashion and homewares. Beautiful alpaca jumpers, scarves, shawls, coats, socks, throw rugs, bedding, quilts & pillows, yarn, teddy bears and more! Morpeth Specialty Oils This is the perfect stop for purveyors of quality ingredients. It’s something a little bit special, a signature in your kitchen and home. All products are highest quality, sold by staff who know their business. A wonderful place for gifts and treats. OPEN 7 DAYS 10AM-4PM

Morpeth Gallery & Ginger Beer Factory Here's Cheers! Taste 13 different cordials brewed, bottled & labelled on the premises, then sample 12 Australian honeys, before you move onto 11 other shops under the one roof! www.morpethgallery.com. Miss Lily’s Lollies Open 7 Days. WOW! is the first word most people say when they enter Miss Lily’s. We have lollies from all around the world, England, Scotland, Europe, NZ, Australia and the USA. Come in and WOW! yourself!

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BEAUTIFUL THINGS An exquisite array of spectacular jewellery, stylish watches, amazing giftware and home wares. Gifts for all ages and occasions collected from all corners of the world. CANDELABRA One of Australia's most famous boutique candle stores—the stunning fragrances, colour and endless variety of product is truly amazing. CHRISTMAS IN THE VINES Where it is Christmas every day. Come on in to our little cottage, and see the great Christmas bargains in store. GEMS4U Visit Gems4u and select from a wonderful range of amazing and unique pieces—Gemstones, Minerals, Fossils, Beading and Gift Certificates. PULP ADDICTION Satisfy your paper cravings with our delightful range of designer stationery which is guaranteed to intrigue and delight. THE TWIG A gorgeous selection of home furnishings and personal giftware unlike anything else on offer in the valley. THE WAITERS FRIEND A great selection of quality kitchenware and barware and some of the best prices anywhere in Australia. VILLAGE BOOKS A fantastic range of fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books and a unique collection of quality toys, games, souvenirs and gifts. WILSON & HUNTER Summer is heating up at Wilson and Hunter with a burst of colour. The latest from Camilla, Mela Purdie, Verge, Katherine, Samantha Wills, Metalicus, Bleu Blanc Rouge,Tilly Rose,Tolani and more… WILSON & HUNTER (EMPORIUM) We've got the whole family covered. Cool cotton dresses and tops for mum, everything dad needs for a great weekend, Oobilicous fashion for the kids and footwear, swimwear and hats for the whole family. wilsonandhunter.com WINE GLASS GALLERY An extraordinary gift gallery stocking unique colourful wine glasses, original artworks, homewares, hand bags, jewellery, shot glasses, magnets, souvenirs & much more.

ZEN HAIR SKIN BODY A full Hairdressing Salon and Beauty Spa in one location, innovative & deluxe treatments in an environmentally friendly setting, the salon can cater to any need. Phone 4998-6844.

AQUA GOLF & PUTT PUTT If you fancy a bit of action then visit our Aqua Golf and Putt Putt Golf Course—fun for the whole family! Win cash & prizes! Phone 4998-7896.

Pamper

Play Broke Road, Pokolbin

Open 7 Days from 10AM

AND THE WINNER IS OSCARS Serving tasty gourmet picnics, fish, sandwiches, our famous gourmet pies, pizza and pasta, there is truly something for all tastes and pockets! Phone 4998-7355. BLISS COFFEE ROASTERS CAFÉ Relax and enjoy a delicious light meal or sweet treat and a blissful cup of coffee. Phone 4998-6700. TASTE OF THE COUNTRY Experience a Taste of the Country in this award winning café and retail outlet. This popular café is like walking into an old fashioned, country kitchen. Phone 4998-6605. THE CELLAR RESTAURANT Award winning contemporary Australian cuisine in a relaxed friendly environment. Open for lunch and dinner 6 days (closed Sundays). Phone 4998-7584.

HUNTER VALLEY CHOCOLATE COMPANY Established more than ten years ago the ORIGINAL Hunter Valley Chocolate Company & Fudge Factory is one of the premier attractions in the area.

HUNTER VALLEY COOKIES Hand-made premium cookies in designer gourmet flavours. Cookie tastings daily, delicious coffee and gluten free cookies.

HUNTER VALLEY LIQUEURS & BAERAMI OLIVES Extra virgin olive oils, infused olive oils, vinegars and a large range of specialty liqueurs and an impressive array of bottles to customize your selection.

POKOLBIN CONVENIENCE STORE In the heart of the village is a genuine general store servicing the Pokolbin area with everything you might need while visiting the Wine Country.

THE BRITISH LOLLY SHOP The largest range of imported English Confectionary. All your old favourites, humbugs, sherbet lemon, come in and sample our hospitality.

THE GARDEN CELLARS Tasting 15 boutique Hunter Valley wines daily. The largest range of local and imported beers in the Hunter Valley.

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