Hunter Valley Cellar Door of the Year 2023

One of the country’s most successful entrepreneurs, the woman who brought PANDORA Jewellery to Australia, has transformed one of the Hunter Valley’s iconic and historic vineyards into one of Australia’s newer superb wine tourism destinations.

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And now, Karin Adcock’s efforts have been recognised by one of the industry’s most respected critics, James Halliday, when her prized winery was shortlisted for Best New Winery in the 2024 Halliday Wine Companion. Winmark Estate’s foray into the industry’s renowned Halliday “bible” came with a prized 5-star rating, which is rare for a winery's first listing. All four wines produced by this Chardonnay-only maker were rated in the 90s, including two outstanding 95 & 96-point scores.

Winmark Wines & Art Gallery was also recently named 2023 Hunter Valley Cellar Door of the Year at the Hunter Valley Wine Industry and Legends Awards. Winmark shone above all other 18 finalists to be presented the award sponsored by Wine Selectors, which is determined by the results of a rigorous third-party secret-shopper style reviewing process.

Danish-born Karin has created a wine lover’s haven in the spectacular Broke Fordwich subregion of the Hunter Valley. Winmark Estate offers a place where everyone, from wine enthusiasts to art and nature lovers, can gather. This recognition confirms that the transformation of this 50-year-old vineyard, formerly known as Poole’s Rock and owned by Macquarie Bank executive David Clarke, is nothing short of incredible.

Karin Adcock.

Open to visitors seven days a week, Winmark Estate offers a complete day out with an art gallery, gift store, immersive sculpture garden and walking tour, coffee cart and luxury accommodation for up to 34 guests across the guesthouses.

2023 has been a landmark year for Winmark Wines with its official launch into the trade with a newly appointed wholesale distributor in NSW, and now this recognition by Halliday and the Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association.

Having taken several years to build up vine quality and the wine range, the range now consists of four incredible Chardonnays, all 100% grown on the property and made by winemaker Xanthe Hatcher under the watchful eye of international winemaker John Belsham. The wines now adorn the wine lists of many great Sydney restaurants, and as distribution continues to grow, so will the enjoyment of Chardonnay lovers worldwide.

“Winning the trophy for the Best Young Chardonnay for our 2021 Winmark Reserve Chardonnay at the NSW Small Winemakers Wine Show last year was such a highlight for my young brand, but Halliday’s recognition and winning Hunter Valley Cellar Door of the Year has raised the bar for Winmark and puts us in amongst the top echelon of wine producers in Australia. It’s such a joy to be recognised in such great company,” said Karin.

“We are so humbled by this recognition. It’s a tough award to win with the secret shopper style of appraisal, so we are beyond excited to have won!”

Winmark Wines & Art Gallery is located at 229 Wollombi Road, Broke. The Cellar Door, Art Gallery, Boutique, Sculpture Garden, Coffee Cart and Sculpture Garden walks are open daily. For opening times, visit www.winmarkwines.com.au or call (0429) 265 268.