Our 13 Favorite Newcastle Wine Tours

Newcastle might be famous for its beaches and coal history, but it’s also a fantastic base for exploring nearby wine country, particularly the renowned Hunter Valley. This region offers more than just good wine; it’s a place where you can learn about the craft, savor local food, and enjoy stunning views—often all in one day. We’re especially fond of tours that include exclusive tastings, like the Newcastle: Boutique Hunter Valley Wine Tour which combines artisan spirits with immersive vineyard experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just love a good sip, Newcastle’s wine tours promise a day of flavor and fun.

For this guide, we’ve gathered a variety of options—guided group tours, private experiences, and short tastings—that cater to different tastes and budgets. You’ll find everything from full-day excursions with lunch to intimate wine and cheese tastings, so you can pick the one that fits your style and schedule.

Quick Overview

Our list features full-day guided tours, like the Hunter Valley Wine Tour + Lunch, Gin, Cheese, Choc from Newcastle that include transportation, multiple tastings, and a relaxed pace. There are private options, such as the Private full-day wine tour in the Hunter Valley, which offer tailored itineraries for small groups or couples. For those interested in shorter, more focused experiences, there are tastings like the Cael’s Gate Wine and Cheese Tasting in Hunter Valley, ideal for a quick, authentic indulgence. No matter your preference, the list below has something for every wine lover.

1. Newcastle: Boutique Hunter Valley Wine Tour

At number 1, this Boutique Hunter Valley Wine Tour offers a highly-rated (5/5 from 47 reviews) experience that balances delicious tastings with craft spirits and culinary pairings. The approximately 8-9 hour tour includes three exclusive seated tastings of fine wines, plus a visit to Small Mouth Vodka, where you’ll sample eight flavoured vodkas, gins, and liqueurs, some with glitter! The highlight is the premium seated tasting at Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard, which boasts panoramic views of the Brokenback Mountain Ranges.

This tour is perfect for those wanting a comprehensive Hunter Valley experience in one day, combining wine, spirits, and food. Reviewers love the friendly guides and the well-paced itinerary—“Nathan took us on a splendid tour,” says one happy guest. The value is clear, given the three wine tastings, spirits, and a gourmet lunch included. A great choice for those who want depth and variety in their tasting experience.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded, immersive tour ideal for lovers of wine and craft spirits wanting a full-day adventure.

2. Hunter Valley Wine Tour + Lunch, Gin, Cheese, Choc from Newcastle

Next on our list is a Hunter Valley Wine Tour + Lunch, Gin, Cheese, Choc. With a 5-star rating from 28 reviews, this 7-to-8-hour group tour offers guided tastings at three wineries and a distillery, along with lunch and plenty of opportunities to sample local cheese, chocolate, and spirits. The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Newcastle, making logistics simple.

What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on variety and regional specialties, with guided behind-the-scenes tours at some locations. Guests mention the delicious lunch and the friendly guide, Chris, who is praised for his knowledge. At just over $161 per person, it offers solid value considering the tastings and transport included. Perfect for travelers who want to meet new people and experience a well-organized day with a good mix of wine and food.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a social, taste-rich day in the Hunter Valley with everything taken care of.

3. Private full-day wine tour in the Hunter Valley

For those seeking a personalized experience, the Private full-day wine tour is top of the list. It’s tailored to your preferences, whether you want to focus on reds, whites, or a specific vineyard. This up to 4-person tour lasts about 6 to 7 hours and includes visits to your favorite wineries or ones suggested by your guide, who is a local with deep knowledge of the region.

The appeal here is the flexibility—you can customize your itinerary and enjoy private tastings that are more relaxed and intimate. Reviews highlight the personal touch and customized experience that makes this tour a favorite for couples or small groups. Price-wise, it’s more expensive ($355 per group), but the personalized service often makes it worth it.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want complete control over their day and a private, relaxed tasting experience.

4. Newcastle: Private Hunter Valley Wine Tour

At number 4, this Private Hunter Valley Wine Tour offers a luxurious, exclusive experience with three seated tastings, including artisan spirits and small bites. The tour is about 8-9 hours, giving plenty of time to explore Hungerford Hill Wines, Small Mouth Vodka, and Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard.

Guests praise the expert guides and the customizable itinerary, with one reviewer noting, “Kiera was fantastic, making sure we did exactly what we wanted.” It’s a high-end, private experience suited for small groups or couples seeking a luxury day without sharing the experience with strangers. The price per group (about $860) reflects its exclusivity and personalized approach.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those celebrating a special occasion or wanting a tailored, intimate wine journey.

5. Cael’s Gate Wine and Ploughman’s Lunch in Hunter Valley

For a quick, relaxing escape, Cael’s Gate offers a Wine and Ploughman’s Lunch. This 2-hour experience priced at just over $32 per person includes a professional wine tasting followed by a substantial Ploughman’s lunch on a balcony overlooking the vineyard. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want a taste of Hunter Valley’s signature wines paired with local fare.

Guests love the scenic setting and the casual, authentic atmosphere. It’s a good choice for those who want a focused experience without a long day of touring, especially if you’re already exploring the region. The tasting is hosted by knowledgeable staff who ensure a personalized experience.

Bottom Line: A short, satisfying tasting ideal for those who want a quick but quality wine experience.

6. Cael’s Gate Wine and Cheese Tasting in Hunter Valley

Next is the Wine and Cheese Tasting at Cael’s Gate, rated 5/5. For just under $18, you enjoy a delicious pairing of locally produced cheeses and wines. Conducted on the balcony overlooking the vineyard, this 2-hour session offers a personalized experience where you learn about each cheese and wine’s story.

Reviews mention the friendly host Chris and the excellent pairings, making it a highlight for those wanting a casual, authentic tasting. It’s suitable for small groups or couples looking for a relaxed event that combines gourmet food and wine in a beautiful setting.

Bottom Line: Perfect for a laid-back, intimate tasting that emphasizes quality and atmosphere.

7. Cael’s Gate Wine Tasting in Hunter Valley

This Wine Tasting offers a 45-minute private experience on the balcony or in the tasting room, showcasing current-release wines. Priced at just over $7, it’s an affordable, short-and-sweet introduction to Cael’s Gate wines. The guided experience is personalized, and the location in Broke Fordwich offers a beautiful backdrop for tasting.

It’s ideal for those wanting a quick peek into wine country without committing to a full-day tour. The reviews are limited, but the low price and personalized service make it a good option for those on a tight schedule.

Bottom Line: An affordable, quick way to taste award-winning wines in a scenic setting.

8. Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Tasting Experience in Hunter Valley

This boutique Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Tasting is rated 5/5 for its personal, handcrafted approach. For about $25, you’ll enjoy a boutique winery experience with artisan wines, cheeses, and handcrafted chocolates. The tasting is hosted by passionate staff who share the stories behind each bottle.

The intimate setting is perfect for couples or small groups who want a more authentic experience rather than large commercial tours. Guests highlight the delicious pairings and the friendly atmosphere. It’s a 2-hour session that balances indulgence with education.

Bottom Line: A charming, personalized tasting for lovers of fine food and wine.

9. Cael’s Gate Reserve Wine Tasting in Hunter Valley

This Reserve Wine Tasting offers a focused 1-hour session with exclusive reserve wines. Priced just under $18, it provides a more refined taste of Cael’s Gate’s best offerings. Guests enjoy a private experience on the balcony or patio, with a guided tasting of premium wines.

Ideal for those wanting a short visit that still packs in quality, this tasting is a great way to sample Cael’s finest without a long commitment. Reviewers appreciate the personalized service and the beautiful setting.

Bottom Line: A compact, upscale tasting perfect for connoisseurs or those with limited time.

10. Hunter Valley Wine Tour with Chocolate and Cheese Tasting

Offering a more personalized experience, this Hunter Valley Wine Tour with Chocolate and Cheese lasts about 3 to 7 hours. It includes visits to four wineries and a distillery, with the flexibility to include lunch. The tour promises a relaxed, intimate environment with full attention from the guide.

While specific reviews aren’t available, the inclusive nature and personalized service make it a good pick for those who want a customized day with tastings and local treats. It’s more flexible than larger organized tours and suits travelers who prefer tailored experiences.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a bespoke wine day with options for additional tastings and lunch.

11. Cael’s Gate Wine and Chocolate Tasting in Hunter Valley

This Wine and Chocolate Tasting at Cael’s Gate combines award-winning wines and artisan chocolates. For just under $18, you enjoy a delicious pairing in a scenic setting overlooking the vineyard. The experience lasts about an hour and offers a personal touch with knowledgeable staff.

It’s perfect for sweet-toothed wine lovers or those wanting a short, indulgent break from sightseeing. Visitors praise the beautiful setting and friendly hosts.

Bottom Line: A sweet, intimate tasting that hits all the right notes for chocolate and wine fans.

12. Cael’s Gate Wine Cheese and Charcuterie in Hunter Valley

For a more substantial tasting experience, Cael’s Gate offers a Wine, Cheese & Charcuterie experience. For about $25, you’ll enjoy artisanal cheeses, premium wines, and delicious charcuterie served with freshly baked bread. It’s a 2-hour, guided tasting on a beautiful property.

Ideal for lovers of gourmet food, this experience is highly rated for its quality pairings and relaxed atmosphere. It’s well-suited for small groups or couples looking for a more culinary-focused visit.

Bottom Line: Perfect for a gourmet day combining wine, cheese, and charcuterie in an inviting setting.

13. Historic Morpeth Cruise with Wine and Local Produce Tasting

Finally, the Historic Morpeth Cruise offers a unique blend of sightseeing and tasting. Over about 8 hours, you’ll cruise along the Hunter River, enjoy morning tea, and sample local wine, cheese, and crackers. The cruise includes time in Morpeth to explore its charming shops and cafes.

Perfect for travelers interested in history and scenery as well as wine, this experience combines relaxation with cultural discovery. The reviews are limited, but the combination of scenic ride and tastings makes it a special outing.

Bottom Line: A scenic, leisurely way to experience both the river and regional flavors in one day.

How to Choose the Right Wine Tour in Newcastle

When selecting your perfect wine tour, consider your budget, time, and interests. For a full immersion with multiple tastings and spirits, the Boutique Hunter Valley Wine Tour offers great value. If you want a personalized, private experience, the Private full-day wine tour is a fantastic choice—ideal for special occasions.

For those short on time but craving authentic flavors, the Cael’s Gate tastings provide focused, intimate experiences, whether with cheese, chocolates, or reserve wines. Budget travelers might prefer the Cael’s Gate Wine and Ploughman’s Lunch, which offers a value-packed tasting.

Booking early is recommended, especially for private or boutique experiences, as they tend to fill quickly. The best times are spring and fall, when the weather is mild and vineyards are at their most photogenic.

Final Thoughts

Newcastle’s proximity to the Hunter Valley means you’re never far from excellent wine and food experiences. Whether you prefer a guided group tour with a lot of variety, a private tailored day, or quick tastings with cheese and chocolates, there’s a perfect option waiting. We recommend considering your budget, schedule, and what kind of experience will make your visit memorable.

For a full day of exploration, the Hunter Valley Wine Tour + Lunch, Gin, Cheese, Choc offers great variety, while the Private full-day wine tour rewards those seeking exclusivity. To keep things simple and authentic, the Cael’s Gate tastings are perfect.

Whatever you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out—so start planning your tasting adventure in Newcastle today.