Things to Do in Pokolbin: A Local's Guide by Mercedes

Things to Do in Pokolbin: A Hunter Valley Local's Guide by Mercedes - a Hunter Valley local since 1987.

1. The Best Way to Experience Pokolbin Wine Country (Without the Logistics)

Relax in your accommodation and have the wine experience come to you. Stay n' Sip provides private wine tasting in Pokolbin hosted by passionate wine professionals so you don't need to drive anywhere. Each experience includes a tasting of locally produced wines made from locally grown fruit that don't appear in any cellar door. Perfect for group wine tasting in the Hunter Valley or a corporate wine tasting experience.

Image from Tinklers Wines.

2. The Cellar Doors Worth Adding to Your Day

Everyone has their favourites but this is where I would recommend visiting during your stay in Pokolbin.

• Tinklers Wines on Pokolbin Mountain Road is a hidden gem. Started over 100 years ago and still family owned and operated, you can expected exceptional wines and traditional charm.
• Keith Tulloch Wines on Hermitage Road boasts beautiful views, fine wines and sits above an artisanal chocolate shop. Need I say more?
• Scarborough Wine Co on Gillard Road is a cellar door within the old residence of founders Merralea and Ian Scarborough. Known for outstanding wine tasting experiences whilst guests overlook a spectacular view of Pokolbin, they offer fabulous wine at very reasonable price points.

Image from Irongate Kitchen.

3. Where to Eat: The Pokolbin Long Lunch Done Right

• Irongate Kitchen is the coolest restaurant in Pokolbin, attached to the Irongate Estate cellar door and offering Basque tapas, you can't regret a stop here. 
• Spicers Guesthouse for a sophisticated bar menu, impressive wine list with luxurious surrounds and great service.
• Rydges Resort Hunter Valley has the best breakfast buffet in the Hunter Valley. Start your day here before heading off for wine tasting. You will be impressed by the sheer range of delectable options available. 

4. How Locals Actually Plan a Weekend in Pokolbin (Hunter Valley Insider Tips)

The Hunter Valley is home of the long weekend and lazy days spent eating and drinking local produce. 

Locals go for quality over quantity, limiting cellar door visits to just one or two in a day with a long lunch in between and a light dinner of casual eats or even cheese from local Binnorie Dairy. 

If you can, stay an extra day and make a stop at Bistro Molines, the most beautiful, warm and inviting restaurant in the Hunter Valley, perched on the hillside of Mount View. The food and service is second to none. On a Monday, you will be surrounded by locals. 

5. Ready to Bring the Hunter Valley to You? 

If getting to the Hunter Valley is too hard, have the Hunter Valley come to you! Stay n' Sip travels all over Sydney and New South Wales so you can experience the best of our produce, right where you are. Perfect for celebrating at home or in your office. Book your wine tasting now.