From Hunter to Hilltop: NSW's Finest Under One Roof
Hungerford Hill stands as one of the Hunter Valley's most innovative wine destinations, where tradition and modern winemaking converge under the expertise of Chief Winemaker Bryan Currie.
Home to the region's only two-hatted restaurant, Muse, this iconic establishment offers a complete wine and dining experience that showcases the best of New South Wales, all housed within its distinctive barrel-shaped cellar door on Broke Road in Pokolbin.
The estate's diverse portfolio draws from an impressive collection of vineyards across NSW's premier wine regions. Each location contributes unique characteristics: Dalwood Estate's sandy soils produce elegant, aromatic Shiraz; Sweetwater Estate's red clay over limestone delivers fuller-bodied wines, while Hungerford Hill's dark clay creates wines of exceptional density. The cool climate of Hilltops proves ideal for Mediterranean varieties like Sangiovese and Tempranillo, while Tumbarumba's colder conditions are perfect for Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.
Innovation drives Hungerford Hill's current approach to winemaking. Since 2020, they've pioneered vegan-friendly and preservative-free wines, using plant proteins like pea and potato starch for fining. These techniques have led to wines with more savoury, textural profiles appealing to contemporary palates and dietary preferences. The winery is particularly excited about its Spanish-style wines, combining early-ripening Tempranillo with late-ripening Graciano from their Hilltops vineyard.
The estate's commitment to excellence extends beyond the cellar to Muse Restaurant, where contemporary Australian cuisine celebrates local produce in a sophisticated style. Their popular Epic Tasting Experience offers visitors a mini-degustation that pairs Hungerford Hill's finest wines with Muse's culinary creations for $60 per person, providing an accessible entry point to fine dining and wine appreciation.
With an eye toward the future, Currie continues to push boundaries, particularly with innovative blends that capitalise on the Hunter Valley's unique climate.
"We're proud to offer a wine for every palate and every occasion," says Currie. "It's about creating the full NSW wine experience, where the variability in seasonal climate makes our wines truly distinctive."
Visit www.hungerfordhill.com.au for more information.
