Hunter Valley: Tasting of 6 Shiraz Vintages at Tulloch Wines

A visit to the Hunter Valley often means exploring rolling vineyards, sipping from a glass while soaking up the landscape, and discovering the stories behind Australia’s finest wines. This particular experience at Tulloch Wines offers a focused look at one of their most iconic wines—the Pokolbin Dry Red Shiraz—through a vertical tasting of six vintages, all set against the backdrop of one of Australia’s most celebrated wine regions.

What makes this tour stand out? Firstly, it’s a chance to taste 6 vintages of Tulloch’s famous Shiraz, giving insight into how the wine evolves over time. Secondly, the private seated setting paired with a generous cheese and charcuterie board makes for a relaxed, intimate experience. Lastly, the opportunity to involve kids and teenagers with specially crafted tastings means the whole family can enjoy a taste of the Hunter Valley.

One possible consideration is that the duration is just one hour, which may seem brief for those wanting an in-depth exploration or a more elaborate experience. However, if you’re after a focused, high-quality tasting, this brevity can be a bonus – quick enough to fit into a larger day of touring, yet deep enough to satisfy serious wine enthusiasts. This experience is particularly suited for couples, small groups, or families who want a manageable, authentic taste of Tulloch Wines without the fuss of larger tours.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to six vintages of Tulloch’s renowned Shiraz
• Private, seated experience enhances comfort and focus
• Paired with local cheese & charcuterie for a well-rounded tasting
• Guided by a knowledgeable Wine Ambassador who shares stories and insights
• Family-friendly options available for kids and teenagers
• Affordable price point for the quality and intimacy of the experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to Tulloch Wines and the Hunter Valley

Founded in 1895, Tulloch Wines holds a significant place in the Hunter Valley’s wine scene. It all started when John Younie Tulloch accepted a debt settlement in the form of a 43-acre property in Pokolbin, which became the foundation for a family-run winery. Their signature wine, the Pokolbin Dry Red (PDR) Shiraz, quickly established a reputation for its consistent quality and character, making Tulloch one of the region’s original and most respected wine families.

This history isn’t just a backdrop; it enhances the tasting experience, allowing visitors to connect with a story that extends over more than a century. The current guides, often knowledgeable “Wine Ambassadors,” are keen to share these narratives, making the experience both educational and personal.

What to Expect from the Experience

At Tulloch, your visit kicks off with an introduction from a Wine Ambassador, who sets the tone by sharing the heritage of Tulloch Wines and explaining what makes the Shiraz special. The main event is the tasting of six different vintages of Tulloch PDR Shiraz—from the oldest to the newest. These tastings provide an evolving picture of the wine’s development and nuances, giving you a real appreciation for how climate, vintage variation, and aging affect the final product.

Each vintage is presented in sequence, allowing you to observe the subtle differences in color, aroma, and flavor profile. The wine is served in a private, comfortable seated area, which makes it easy to relax, ask questions, and truly savor each pour without feeling rushed.

The Tasting and Pairing

The tasting is complemented by a local cheese and charcuterie board, generously portioned and thoughtfully curated. It’s designed to enhance the wine’s flavors and provide a satisfying snack, making the tasting more than just a sip-and-spit affair. The individual tasting mat helps you keep track of each vintage, noting how the wine’s aroma and taste change over time.

Family-Friendly Add-Ons

For families or groups with children, Tulloch offers a Kids Junior Tasting with 4 soft drinks and matching snacks, all gluten and nut free. For teenagers or non-drinkers, a Kombucha tasting paired with a local cheese box provides a sophisticated alternative. These options keep the younger ones engaged while adults focus on their wine.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Vintages: What Makes Them Special?

Many reviews highlight Tulloch’s commitment to consistency and quality, but they also appreciate seeing how the wine evolves. Being able to taste 6 vintages in one sitting offers a rare snapshot of how the PDR Shiraz ages, from youthful, fruit-forward versions to more complex, layered bottles after years of aging.

Reviewers mentioned that the guide’s storytelling added depth to the experience, making each vintage come alive with context. One comment noted that the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge really helped understand what to look for in each vintage.

The Experience Itself: Practical Details

• Duration: Just one hour, making it an ideal quick but meaningful addition to a day in Hunter Valley.
• Price: $55 per person, which offers excellent value considering the private setting, multiple vintages, and pairing.
• Inclusions: The experience includes an introduction, private seated tasting of 6 wines, a cheese and charcuterie board, and a detailed tasting mat.
• Availability: Usually available in the morning or afternoon, with the option to book in advance.
• Group Size: Small, private groups ensure personalized attention.
• Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors.
• Additional Options: You can extend the experience with kids or teens tastings, priced separately.

What Travelers Say

Many reviewers praised Tulloch’s warm, welcoming atmosphere and the in-depth knowledge of guides. One remarked that the tasting felt exclusive and personal, perfect for wine lovers wanting a deeper understanding without the crowds. The cheese and charcuterie pairing was also a highlight, with several noting it added a deliciously indulgent touch.

Others appreciated the storytelling about Tulloch’s heritage, which made the experience more meaningful. When asked about the vintage tastings, one guest noted, “It’s fascinating to see how the wine changes over the years—it’s like tasting history in a glass.”

Why This Experience is Worth Considering

This tasting is a well-rounded choice for those wanting a focused, authentic encounter with Tulloch’s iconic Shiraz. The private, seated setup offers comfort and intimacy, perfect for couples, small groups, or wine enthusiasts eager to learn. The pairing with cheese and charcuterie elevates the tasting beyond just drinking wine, turning it into a sensory event.

The family-friendly options also make this experience appealing for visitors traveling with children or teenagers who want to share in the fun. The affordable price relative to the quality, ambiance, and educational value makes it a smart pick for any budget-conscious wine lover.

While the hour-long duration might feel brief for some, it’s an efficient way to taste multiple vintages and learn about Tulloch’s legacy without committing hours. If your schedule allows, you might consider combining this with other tastings or tours nearby to make the most of your Hunter Valley visit.

The Sum Up

For anyone wanting to explore one of Australia’s most historic wineries in an intimate and educational setting, this tasting at Tulloch Wines offers exceptional value. It’s perfect for those eager to understand how a signature wine like Tulloch’s Shiraz ages and develops over time, all while enjoying a private, relaxed environment.

If you’re a wine lover who appreciates storytelling, quality pairings, and a family-friendly vibe, this experience will hit all the right notes. It’s a balanced mix of heritage, taste, and personal attention—all set amidst the beautiful Hunter Valley landscape.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just seeking a memorable wine experience, Tulloch’s Shiraz tasting is sure to leave a lasting impression.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate in the Junior Tasting, which includes soft drinks and snacks, making it a family-friendly option.

Can teenagers join the tasting?
Teenagers can enjoy the Kombucha tasting paired with cheese, offering a sophisticated non-alcoholic alternative.

How long does the tasting last?
The tasting is approximately 1 hour, providing a compact but comprehensive experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private seated tasting of 6 vintages, an introduction from a Wine Ambassador, a cheese and charcuterie board, and a tasting mat.

Are there options for additional food or drinks?
Additional food and drinks are not included in the package, but can be purchased separately at the venue.

Is the venue accessible?
Yes, Tulloch Wines is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a variety of guests.

What is the group size?
This experience is designed for private groups, ensuring a personalized and intimate setting.

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

Is the experience available in the morning and afternoon?
Yes, it typically runs at both times, so you can choose what fits your schedule best.

Are wine purchases available after the tasting?
Yes, guests can buy bottles directly from Tulloch Wines if they wish to take some of the experience home.

This thoughtfully curated tasting at Tulloch Wines offers a genuine look into Australia’s cherished Shiraz, blending heritage, flavor, and family warmth—all in a memorable, intimate setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: