Hunter Valley suggestions

[ChrisV]

My girlfriend and I have one day in the Hunter - Mother's Day, Sunday 8th May. I'd like to visit a few cellar doors. Of course good wine is a consideration, but pretty cellar doors with a view are also desirable. I had my sights set on Mt Pleasant, but according to their website they are closed for renovations? (and "opening in early 2022" ). I have been to the Hunter once or twice before and been to Tyrrell's, Meerea Park, De Julius, Mt Pleasant and the small winemaker centre, quite willing to repeat any of those, it was years ago so I don't really remember them too well.

Also looking for suggestions for the following:

- A place for a hearty casual meal in Cessnock or nearby on the night of Sat 7th. We will have just been hiking for 6 hours so something like a good pub meal will probably hit the spot.

- Somewhere for lunch. Something quite nice but just a light lunch, not a degustation or anything like that.

Very grateful for any help!

Cheers
Chris

[sjw_11]

I haven't been to the Hunter in some years, but I once had a meat platter that was beyond belief at the fairly humble Hotel Cessnock on the main street.

Otherwise as to wineries, I always liked McLeish Estate. I was a member of Briar Ridge for awhile- they do a good range, well priced, well made, and I think maybe do platters etc? (or did). Historically I always had Brokenwood as a mandatory visit, and always found it pretty friendly. But as I say, it has been a long time.

[Ian S]

I did a search recently and noticed the small winemaker centre had gone, or rather morphed into something else.

[vovo]

Best view and also very pretty winery is Audrey Wilkinson. Not your typical wine nerd sort of place but the view is stunning.

Tyrells and Thomas Allen are lovely cellar doors and very good wine