When you are one of the smallest wine growing areas in the country, there’s only one way to stand out — by consistently producing some of the best wines in the world.

The Hunter Valley is a dynamic and historic wine region, encompassing both the Lower and Upper Hunter. The Lower Hunter Valley is home to more than 150 premium producers and is made up of a collection of distinctive subregions including Broke Fordwich, Lovedale, Mount View, Pokolbin and Wollombi Valley, each with its own character, nuances and stories to uncover.

Extending approximately 80–120 kilometres northwest, the Upper Hunter stretches through Singleton, Scone, Denman and Murrurundi. More rural and expansive in nature, the Upper Hunter is a rich agricultural region and a multi-billion dollar horse breeding powerhouse, home to more than 150 thoroughbred studs. With a warmer, drier climate than its Lower Hunter counterpart, it produces generous, fruit-driven styles of Semillon, Chardonnay, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, alongside emerging alternative varieties.

Together, the Upper and Lower Hunter form a region of contrast and depth, from vibrant cellar door hubs to quietly authentic country experiences.

Hunter Valley is Australia’s oldest wine growing region, with vines first planted in the early 1820s from cuttings brought by James Busby, widely regarded as the father of Australian wine.

Today, the Hunter Valley is home to some of Australia’s most distinctive and outstanding wines. The most recognised of these is Hunter Valley Semillon — a truly remarkable wine often described as “Australia’s unique gift to the world.” A standout in both quality and style, it reflects over 150 years of evolving techniques, craftsmanship and the influence of pioneering figures such as Maurice O'Shea, alongside iconic winemaking families including the Tyrrell's Wines, Drayton's Family Wines and Tulloch Wines.

From its early days, when it was known as Hunter River Riesling, Semillon formed a unique bond with the region. So strong is this connection to its terroir that the style has not been replicated anywhere else in the world. In its youth, Hunter Valley Semillon is crisp and vibrant, with bright citrus characters that pair beautifully with seafood. With time, it transforms, developing complex notes of toast, honey and vanilla, gaining depth, richness and remarkable longevity.

The Hunter Valley is also renowned for producing exceptional Shiraz and continues to evolve through the exploration of alternative varieties and styles, including Tempranillo.

Come and visit the Hunter Valley and discover the difference that heritage, diversity and place can make.