Hunter Valley (New South Wales)

The stunning Hunter Wine country is a 2 hour drive north of Sydney in New South Wales, and is home to more than 100 wineries. The wine is produced in astoundingly beautiful surroundings, with lush landscapes of mountains and river valleys. The breathtaking panoramic views can be best seen from a hot-air balloon. The Valley is home to much more than just wine- there are an abundance of quaint gift shops, antique dealerships and art galleries to explore.

On your trip to the Hunter Valley you will visit Drayton’s Family Wines, a family orientated business that has been producing wine since the 1850’s. On your tour of the vineyard, you will see how they produce their famous wines including Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz Cabernet, and Merlot, in addition to other delicious liquors such as Chocolate Liquor, Log Pres Port and Cream Sherry. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy private tastings of some of the Drayton’s finest produce!

Shakey Tables

The Hunter Valley is world renowned for its production of superb quality wine, but the area is also a drawcard for lovers of fine cuisine. Cold-pressed olive oil, olive products, Hunter cheese, honey, jams and pickles are produced in the area and readily available for purchase – the Hunter Valley truly is a food and wine enthusiast’s paradise!

On your trip to the Hunter Valley, you will be dining at the multi-award winning Shakey Tables Restaurant which overlooks fantastic bush and vineyard views. The restaurant’s décor of wooden furniture and lively, vibrant colours provides a warm welcome for guests. The chef, Paula Rengger, is a proficient artist and her eye-catching works adorn the restaurant walls.

Paula originates from Scotland, and her partner Simon Rengger is Swiss, so both their heritage influences combined with traditional and modern Australian cuisine make for a delicious and unusual menu. Simon is the restaurant’s sommelier, and chooses wines from the Hunter Valley and throughout the rest of Australia and the world to compliment Paula’s gastronomy.

Paula and Simon pay great attention to detail, ensuring that each and every guest has a unique and enjoyable dining experience. Simon brings each glass of wine suggested to compliment individual courses to the table for diners to taste; most restaurants would only offer this service if diners are purchasing the whole bottle. Franz Scheurer of the Australian Gourmet Pages commented that the service within Shakey Tables is much more professional than other many country eating establishments, “Service is attentive, friendly and professional. Something rarely seen outside the city.”

Below is a sample menu from Shakey Tables – guaranteed to make your mouth water!

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