Pokolbin: Picnic & Wine Tasting at Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard

Imagine sitting under the sun, surrounded by rolling vineyards and mountain views, sipping on some of the region’s finest wines while nibbling on a thoughtfully curated picnic hamper. That’s exactly what you get with the Pokolbin: Picnic & Wine Tasting at Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard—a highly rated experience that blends education, scenery, and relaxation in a way that appeals to both wine novices and seasoned connoisseurs.

We’re here to break down what makes this tour a standout, what you can expect from it, and why it might just be the perfect addition to your Hunter Valley adventure. From the friendly guides to the stunning vistas and delicious wines, there are many reasons to consider booking this experience. But, as with all things, there’s a small consideration about the time commitment and group size that’s worth keeping in mind.

If you love learning about wine with a personal touch, enjoying scenic outdoor setups, and indulging in good-value experiences, then this tour is likely to tick a lot of boxes for you.

Key Points

• Expert-led master class offers insight into classic varietals and the region’s winemaking.
• Stunning views of Hunter Valley and Brokenback Ranges provide a picturesque backdrop.
• Premium wine tasting includes in-house selections that showcase the vineyard’s best.
• Leisurely picnic among the vines allows for a relaxed, personalized experience.
• Small group size (limited to 8 people) ensures a more intimate, friendly atmosphere.
• Good value for money at $63, including a guided experience, tastings, and a picnic hamper.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What is the Experience All About?

The Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard is located at the foot of the Brokenback Mountain Ranges, offering a spectacular setting that immediately sets the tone for a memorable visit. The journey begins at the cellar door, where you’ll be welcomed and guided through an on-site museum filled with regional and winemaking history—perfect for those curious about the background of their favorite varietals.

The highlight here is the wine master class, led by a friendly and knowledgeable host. We loved the way guides like Danni, Marcus, and Allie bring their passion and expertise, making each tasting engaging and accessible. Expect to learn about the vineyard’s approach and the characteristics of the wines, which are considered some of the best examples of classic Hunter Valley varietals.

The Tasting Experience

Once the educational part wraps up, you’ll move on to the premium wine tasting. This is where the real tasting begins—sampling a selection of the vineyard’s showcase wines, carefully curated by the winemakers. Reviewers consistently mention the quality of the wines, with many noting that the wine was absolutely beautiful and that the hosts are informative and friendly. One reviewer appreciated that “Allie did a great job explaining the wines,” making the tasting both enjoyable and educational.

Scenic Picnic in the Vines

After the tasting, you’re encouraged to pick up your packed picnic hamper and a bottle of wine to enjoy at your leisure. Whether you want to settle among the vines, lounge on the lawn, or sit undercover on the verandah, the choice is yours. The views are often described as stunning, with one guest describing the experience as “fabulous scenery and experience.” The picnic spread is well-regarded, with one reviewer calling the food beautiful, and the value for money is considered excellent, especially when you get to keep a bottle of your favorite wine.

Viewpoints and Atmosphere

The vineyard’s position provides sweeping views of the Hunter Valley and the Brokenback Ranges, making it ideal for photography or simply soaking in the scenery. Guests mention the sunny spots on the lawn or undercover verandah tables, which keep you comfortable regardless of the weather. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and intimate, with small groups limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personal touch.

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What to Expect: The Details

Itinerary Breakdown

• Start at the Cellar Door: Located on De Beyers Road, the experience begins with a warm welcome and a short walk to the on-site museum. The museum showcases the vineyard’s history, giving visitors a sense of place and tradition.

• Participate in the Wine Master Class: Led by a personable host—like Danni or Marcus—this segment lasts around 30 minutes and covers the basics of winemaking, regional characteristics, and tasting techniques. Guests often comment that their guides were “very relatable” and “quiet informative,” adding a layer of authenticity.

• Premium Wine Tasting: Post-lesson, you’ll sample a selection of what the vineyard considers their classic varietals. Expect to taste wines considered some of the best on-site, with descriptions that help you identify flavors and aromas.

• Picnic and Relaxation: After the tasting, you’ll collect your packed picnic hamper and a bottle of wine of your choice. The setting is flexible—you can sit at a scenic vantage point among the vines, on the lawn, or under cover, depending on the weather. Reviewers note that the picnic was ample and delicious, making for an enjoyable, unhurried meal.

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience runs for about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable, leisurely activity that fits well into a day of exploring Hunter Valley. The small-group format (limited to 8 people) ensures a more personalized, friendly environment, perfect for conversations and questions.

Cost and Value

At $63 per person, this experience is seen as providing excellent value. For that price, you get an educational master class, premium tastings, a picnic hamper, and the chance to enjoy the views and atmosphere. Reviewers frequently mention that they felt they received more than their money’s worth.

Accessibility and Additional Info

• Dietary requirements can be accommodated if communicated at booking.
• Weather considerations: Undercover seating is available if the day turns rainy or too hot.
• Children under 18 are not permitted, emphasizing the adult-focused nature of the experience.
• Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers flexibility for travelers’ plans.

Authentic Experiences Shared by Guests

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides for their friendliness and expertise. One reviewer, Rahul, appreciated Liz’s pleasant attitude and knowledge, saying she made the experience “a great one,” while others highlighted guides like Sean and Marcus for their “brilliant, light-hearted” approach.

The views and scenery are also a recurring highlight. Multiple reviews mention the stunning vistas, with some describing the location as ‘one of their favorite’ vineyards in the Hunter. The picnic setup among the vines adds a personal, relaxed touch that many travelers love—one said it was a ‘wonderful way to spend the afternoon’.

The wine quality is also a standout. Several reviewers mention how beautiful the wines are and that they appreciated being able to choose a bottle for their picnic, adding a tangible souvenir to their visit.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples seeking romance and scenic views, groups of friends wanting a relaxed, social outing, or anyone curious about Hunter Valley wines but with limited time. The small group size and personalized service make it particularly appealing for those who prefer an intimate setting over large tours.

It’s also perfect if you want a combination of education and leisure—learning about wine in a beautiful outdoor environment. However, if you’re traveling with children under 18, this tour isn’t suitable, and those looking for a full-day experience might find it too brief.

The Pokolbin: Picnic & Wine Tasting at Audrey Wilkinson offers a balanced mix of guided education, premium wines, and breathtaking scenery. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that values intimacy, quality, and authenticity. For around $63, you get much more than just a tasting—you gain a memorable moment in the Hunter Valley, perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a relaxing day with friends or loved ones.

If you appreciate knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and well-crafted wines, this tour is a must-do. It’s especially suited for travelers who seek a laid-back, personal experience that combines learning with leisure, all set against the backdrop of one of Australia’s most beautiful wine regions.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 1.5 hours, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing.

Is there a minimum group size?
The tour is limited to small groups of up to 8 people, ensuring a more personal and interactive experience.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?
Yes, dietary needs can be met if you provide the information when booking.

What’s included in the tour price?
You’ll participate in a wine master class, enjoy a premium tasting, and receive a packed picnic hamper with a bottle of wine to enjoy afterward.

Are the vineyard views scenic?
Absolutely. The vineyard’s position at the foothills of the Brokenback Mountain Ranges offers stunning views perfect for photos and relaxing moments.

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for guests 18 and over.

What if the weather is bad?
Undercover seating is available, so the experience can proceed comfortably regardless of rain or intense sun.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In summary, the Audrey Wilkinson Picnic & Wine Tasting in Pokolbin delivers a charming, well-rounded taste of Hunter Valley wine culture. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a blend of education, scenic beauty, and relaxed indulgence—truly a highlight for any wine lover’s itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: