Pokolbin is a standout spot for wine lovers. It’s not just because of the world-class wineries but also because of the rich variety of tours available. Whether you’re after a quick tasting or a full-day adventure, Pokolbin offers options that cater to different tastes and budgets. We’re particularly fond of the half-day Hunter Valley tour with cheese and wine because it combines intimate tastings at boutique wineries with a fun kangaroo-spotting trip at Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen. That blend of local charm, expert pairing, and relaxed atmosphere makes it a top choice. Plus, it’s a great way to get a taste of the region without a long commitment.
If you want to take your experience further, the full-day wine, spirits, and cheese tour stands out for its behind-the-scenes access and variety. It’s perfect for those who want a deeper dive into local craftsmanship—from organic vodka to handcrafted cheeses—making it a very well-rounded day. These tours offer a genuine look at the Hunter Valley’s best and are perfect for travelers craving depth and quality in their wine adventures.
1. Pokolbin: Hunter Valley Half-Day Tour with Cheese and Wine
At number 1, this half-day tour is a fantastic introduction to the Hunter Valley’s wine scene. For only $72 per person, you get about four hours of private tastings at three boutique wineries, avoiding the crowds and enjoying a more personalized experience. What makes this tour stand out is the focus on pairing wine and cheese—you’ll learn how to get the most flavor out of both, guided by experts. The visit to Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Kitchen adds a playful element, where you might spot kangaroos while tasting local cheeses.
Guests appreciate the relaxed pace and the opportunity to explore less commercial wineries. This tour is ideal for first-timers or those with limited time but wanting a taste of the region’s best. The main downside is it’s only four hours—so if you’re looking for a longer day, consider a full tour. Still, it offers excellent value for its price and intimacy.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, quality introduction to Hunter Valley wines with a fun Australian twist.
2. Pokolbin: Picnic & Wine Tasting at Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard
At number 2, this short but sweet experience is about a 1.5-hour wine master class combined with a scenic picnic among the vines. The highlight is the friendly host’s engaging storytelling and the chance to sample premium wines directly from the vineyard. The incredible views of the Brokenback Ranges make the picnic hamper even more memorable. You’ll get to choose your favorite wines to pair with your picnic, and the on-site museum adds a layer of local history—perfect for those interested in the story behind the wines.
For just $63, this tour offers a personalized experience with intimate tastings and stunning scenery. It’s especially suited for couples or small groups wanting a relaxed, educational outing. The main limitation is the brief duration, so if you’re craving a full-day experience, this might be too condensed. Nonetheless, it’s a highly rated, value-packed option.
Bottom Line: A charming, scenic tasting with a picnic, perfect for a romantic or leisurely afternoon.
3. Hunter Valley: Wine, Spirits, and Cheese Tour with Lunch
Number 3 on our list offers a full six-hour day exploring the best of Hunter Valley. This small-group tour includes visits to three wineries, with tastings of white and red wines, plus a behind-the-scenes look at wine production. It’s a standout for its mix of wine, gin, cheese, chocolate, and a one-course lunch—all with a complimentary drink included. The tour’s focus on organic spirits like vodka and gin—served in test tubes—adds an unusual, memorable touch.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to see how wine and spirits are made. The inclusion of chocolate and cheese pairings makes this especially appealing to foodies. Although the price is higher at $178, the variety and depth of experiences justify the cost.
Bottom Line: An immersive, tasty day for those wanting a comprehensive look at Hunter Valley’s wine and spirits scene.
4. Hunter Valley: Wine, Gin, Cheese and Chocolate Tour
Number 4 is a 6-hour day trip that combines boutique wineries and local artisanal foods. For $148 per person, it includes visits to three wineries with tastings, plus gin, vodka, cheese, and chocolate sampling. The tour provides a relaxed experience with hotel pickup and drop-off—ideal for visitors staying in the area who want convenience. The mix of wine and spirits makes it stand out among more traditional tours.
Travelers comment on the delicious tastings and the chance to try locally made cheeses and chocolates. The tour is great for those wanting variety without sacrificing quality. The only potential downside is that it’s a full-day commitment, so less suitable if you’re short on time.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, relaxed day exploring Hunter Valley’s best food and drink with convenience.
5. Hunter Valley: Wine and Cheese Tasting
Number 5 offers a one-hour experience at Pooles Rock cellar door for just $36, ideal for those new to wine tasting or short on time. You’ll sample sparkling, white, and red wines paired with locally crafted cheeses. The al fresco deck offers a lovely setting to enjoy your tastings while absorbing the vineyard’s atmosphere.
Guests love this focused tasting experience for its quality wines and the chance to relax with a small group. It’s a good way to dip your toes into the region’s wines without a big time or money commitment. If you want more in-depth exploration, this might be too brief, but it’s perfect for a quick, high-quality taste.
Bottom Line: An excellent, compact tasting — ideal for a quick stop and a relaxed experience.
6. Pokolbin: Tulloch Hunter Heroes Wine Tasting & Cheese Board
At number 6, this one-hour tasting at Tulloch Wines offers a private seated experience with a cheese and charcuterie board. For just $35 per person, you get to try five current release wines plus a museum-aged wine. The private setting and introduction by a Wine Ambassador make it stand out for those who prefer a more personal, relaxed setting.
This tour is praised for its generous cheese platter and the opportunity to learn about local grapes and wine-making. It’s a great choice for a quick, intimate tasting if you’re pressed for time but still want a quality experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a short, tasting-focused visit with good local cheeses and wines.
7. Hunter Valley: Wonnarua Sparkling Tasting
Number 7 offers a 45-minute sparkling wine tasting combined with Wonnarua First Nations history. For $30, you get an immersive experience led by a Wine Ambassador, including a native ingredients brunch board. The storytelling element and cultural insights make this shorter tour quite special.
Guests appreciate the deep cultural connection and the chance to learn about Indigenous traditions alongside tasting premium sparkling wines. It’s ideal for those interested in local heritage and unique flavors, though the short duration may not suit those wanting a full day of winery visits.
Bottom Line: A culturally rich, unique tasting experience with a focus on Indigenous history.
8. Hunter Valley: Wine and Cheese Tasting Experience
Number 8 features a one-hour experience at McCaffrey’s Estate, a family-owned boutique winery. For just $15, you get to sample local wines paired with artisanal cheeses. The informal setting offers a chance to learn about the vineyard’s terroir and the dedication behind each bottle.
This experience is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a casual, friendly tasting. While it’s limited in time, it provides a personal touch and a good overview of the local wine scene. If you prefer a more structured or longer tour, look elsewhere, but for quick tastings, it’s a solid choice.
Bottom Line: Budget-friendly, relaxed tasting with local charm.
9. Hunter Valley: Private Wine, Cheese, and Chocolate Tour
Number 9 is a private tour for up to 2 people, offering a bespoke experience in Hunter Valley. For $389, you get door-to-door service, visits to three boutique wineries, plus stops at cheese and chocolate shops. The personalized approach makes this stand out.
Guests love the flexibility and intimate experience. It’s perfect for special occasions or travelers who want to tailor their day. The main consideration is the price, which is higher than group tours, but the exclusivity can make it worthwhile.
Bottom Line: The top choice for a private, customized tasting experience.
$389 per group up to 2
10. Hunter Valley: Pooles Rock Premiere Wine Tasting
Number 10 offers a relaxed hour in the cellar door tasting premium Pooles Rock wines. For $20, you access a selection of iconic Australian regional wines and learn about winemaking from the cellar team.
This tour is praised for its informative environment and beautiful vineyard views. It’s ideal if you’re seeking a casual yet educational tasting. The main drawback is the limited time, but it’s good for a quick, quality experience.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, educational tastings spot for wine enthusiasts short on time.
$20 per person
11. Exclusive Behind the Scenes Winery Tour with Cheese Pairing
Number 11 provides a 2-hour guided winery tour that includes a behind-the-scenes barrel tasting and a cheese pairing. For $79, it offers an in-depth look at the winemaking process and a chance to sample local cheeses.
Guests rave about the personalized guided experience and the opportunity to see the inner workings of a working winery. It’s best suited for travelers seeking more than just tastings—a truly educational experience that combines tasting and learning.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting to understand wine production firsthand along with tasting.
$79 per person
12. Sydney: Hunter Valley Overnight Wine Tour with Tastings
Number 12 is a two-day tour from Sydney, including overnight accommodation and visits to 3 wineries, a brewery, and a distillery. For $1,914 per group, this is a comprehensive option, perfect for those wanting to maximize their time.
Guests enjoy full immersion into the region, with visits to historic sites and scenic drives. It’s best for serious wine travelers or those celebrating special occasions. The higher price reflects the extensive experience and convenience.
Bottom Line: The best choice for a deep, multi-day exploration from Sydney.
$1,914 per group up to 2
How to Choose the Right Wine Tour in Pokolbin
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For a quick taste, Wine and Cheese Tasting at Pooles Rock offers good value, while Private Wine, Cheese, and Chocolate Tour is better suited for those seeking a personal experience.
If you want a cultural twist, the Wonnarua Sparkling Tasting blends Indigenous history with bubbly. For a full day of diverse tastings, the Wine, Spirits, and Cheese Tour is a top choice.
Booking early is always wise, especially during peak seasons, to lock in your preferred date and avoid missing out.
Final Thoughts
Pokolbin boasts a wide range of wine tours designed to suit different tastes and schedules. For a relaxed introduction, the Hunter Valley Half-Day Tour with Cheese and Wine hits the mark. If you’re after deep dives into wine and spirits or a private experience, options like the full-day tour with behind-the-scenes access or the private wine tour are excellent.
Travelers seeking cultural insights will appreciate the Wonnarua Sparkling Tasting, while those on a tight schedule can make the most of the quick yet flavorful tastings at Pooles Rock. No matter your style, booking early and choosing the right experience can make your trip to Pokolbin unforgettable.