Premium Hunter Wine Tour with Degustation Lunch and Paired Wines

Planning a day in the Hunter Valley and want something beyond the usual tourist stops? This Premium Hunter Wine Tour promises an intimate, luxury experience that takes you off the beaten path to explore boutique, family-run wineries known for their organic and sustainable practices. With a focus on meaningful storytelling, beautiful scenery, and exceptional wine and food, this tour offers a chance to connect with the region in a way that feels authentic and relaxed.

What really sets this experience apart are three things: the opportunity to visit two lesser-known wineries with unique approaches, the delicious farm-to-table degustation lunch paired perfectly with premium wines, and the natural beauty of the vineyards and gardens you’ll encounter. For many, the slower pace and personalized touches make it a memorable day out.

A possible consideration? The tour lasts around six hours, which might be on the longer side for those keen to keep sightseeing light. Still, if you’re a wine lover or foodie who appreciates authentic local spots and thoughtful experiences, this trip could become a highlight of your Hunter Valley visit.

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts, foodies, and travelers wanting a more relaxed, in-depth look at the region’s boutique wineries. If you’re after a genuine connection to the land, people, and produce of the Hunter, this tour is a strong contender.

Key Points

• Intimate Small Group: With a maximum of 11 travelers, the experience feels personalized and relaxed.
• Exclusive Access: Behind-the-scenes tours at Margan and Krinklewood reveal insider insights and a deeper appreciation of winemaking.
• Farm-to-Table Excellence: The degustation lunch highlights seasonal, estate-grown ingredients, paired with premium wines.
• Stunning Views: From vineyard panoramas to lavender gardens, scenery is a consistent highlight.
• Authentic & Sustainable: Focus on organic, biodynamic, and low-intervention practices offers an authentic taste of local craftsmanship.
• Flexible & Convenient: Pickup options and a mobile ticket make planning straightforward.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Margan Estate

The tour kicks off at Margan Wines, a family-run operation renowned for its organic and low-intervention winemaking. Here, the “Ultimate Experience” is more than just tasting wine — it’s a behind-the-scenes journey that provides insight into how the estate’s wines are crafted.

Our guide, Daniel, leads us through the kitchen garden and estate farm, giving us a firsthand look at the ingredients that go into the farm-to-table philosophy. We loved the way he shared stories about the farm’s sustainable practices and how they influence the wine. The tasting here isn’t just a sip — it’s a layered experience: sampling wine at different stages, from tank to barrel, before bottling.

The views of the Brokenback Range add a dramatic backdrop, making the experience visually stunning. The tasting from barrel is especially noteworthy, giving a rare peek into the aging process that influences each bottle’s unique character.

Gourmet Degustation Lunch

After the fascinating tour, we settle into Margan’s award-winning, carbon-neutral restaurant for a multi-course degustation lunch. The seasonal menu emphasizes local ingredients, carefully prepared to highlight fresh, farm-to-table flavors. Each dish is paired with a Margan wine—a true treat for food and wine pairing enthusiasts.

Guests noted that the lunch was a highlight — not only for the quality of the food but also because it’s a carefully curated experience, with each course thoughtfully paired to elevate the wine. The menu changes seasonally, but you can expect a balance of sophisticated flavors and hearty, comforting dishes.

Afternoon at Krinklewood Vineyard

In the late afternoon, we visit Krinklewood, a biodynamic vineyard famous for its stunning setting and European-style wines. This estate is renowned for its lavender gardens and roaming peacocks, making it one of the most picturesque cellar doors in the region.

The guided tasting here is a more relaxed, sensory experience. We appreciated the way the hosts explained the biodynamic practices and how they influence the wine’s flavor profile. The wines are elegant and showcase a European style, emphasizing finesse and balance.

Guests also mentioned the beautiful architecture and natural surroundings that make Krinklewood a feast for the eyes as much as the palate.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Focus on Authenticity and Sustainability

This isn’t the typical commercial winery experience. Both Margan and Krinklewood prioritize organic, biodynamic, and low-intervention practices, giving you a genuine taste of the region’s dedication to quality and sustainability. Guests often comment on how these practices translate into a more expressive, terroir-driven wine.

The Personal Touch and Deep Connections

Tour hosts like Daniel bring local knowledge and stories that give the day a personal, authentic feel. This isn’t a generic tour — it’s hosted by someone with deep connections in the Hunter, ensuring you learn about the region’s history, culture, and winemaking philosophy.

Stunning Landscapes and Serene Atmosphere

From the expansive vineyard views at Margan to the lavender gardens at Krinklewood, the scenery is a major part of the appeal. Guests frequently highlight the beautiful, peaceful settings as a memorable aspect of the day.

Value for Money

Priced at $336.66 per person, the tour offers ample opportunities for tasting, a high-quality degustation lunch, and exclusive access to boutique wineries. Compared to larger, more commercial tours, the intimacy and depth of experience provide excellent value.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is the duration — six hours might feel quite long, especially if you prefer shorter, more energetic tours. Comfort with a slower pace and a moderate level of walking is advisable. Also, being a small-group experience, it’s best suited for those who appreciate personalized attention rather than a large, bus-style tour.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re a wine enthusiast eager to discover lesser-known wineries and learn about sustainable winemaking. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal degustation paired with estate wines. If you prefer a more relaxed, storytelling-focused visit rather than a hurried tasting, this tour hits the mark.

It’s also ideal for travelers seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, with scenic views and genuine connections to local producers. If you’re after a luxurious, yet laid-back day in the Hunter Valley, this tour offers a thoughtful way to enjoy the region.

Practical Information

• Duration: Approximately 6 hours, allowing for a leisurely pace.
• Start Time: 10:15 am, with pickup offered for convenience.
• Group Size: Max 11 travelers, ensuring intimacy.
• Price: $336.66 per person, including tastings and lunch.
• Includes: Behind-the-scenes tours, degustation lunch, and premium wine tastings.
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, offering flexibility if your plans change.

FAQ

What is the tour length?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, making it a full and relaxed day.

Are transportation options available?
Yes, pickup is offered, which simplifies logistics and means you don’t need to worry about driving.

How many wineries are visited?
Two boutique wineries: Margan and Krinklewood, both known for their sustainable practices.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a multi-course degustation lunch with paired wines is part of the experience.

What is the dress code?
Smart casual is recommended, especially considering the scenic venues and fine dining.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
While not explicitly stated, most high-end wineries are flexible with dietary needs — it’s best to specify in advance.

Is this tour suitable for non-wine drinkers?
While primarily focused on wine, the scenic walks and gourmet meal could still appeal, but check with the provider for specific restrictions.

How many people will be on the tour?
A maximum of 11 travelers, ensuring a more intimate, personalized experience.

What’s the best time of year to do this?
Spring and autumn are especially beautiful, with lush vineyards or harvest season, but the experience works year-round.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start time and receive a full refund.

This Premium Hunter Wine Tour offers a balanced blend of authentic winemaking insights, stunning scenery, and gourmet food. It’s best suited for travelers who want to slow down, enjoy meaningful conversations, and savor the region’s best-kept secrets. The focus on sustainability and boutique wineries means you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Hunter Valley’s craftsmanship and character.

If you’re after an intimate, high-quality experience that emphasizes genuine connections over large crowds, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a chance to explore the region’s lesser-known sides while indulging in beautiful views and excellent food and wine.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a thoughtful day out, this tour delivers a satisfying, well-rounded journey into Hunter Valley’s heart and soul.