If you’re heading to Hunter Valley and love a good sparkling wine, this Tulloch Wines Wonnarua Sparkling Tasting offers more than just a sip of bubbly. For $30 per person, you get a 45-minute private experience that combines exquisite sparkling wines with an authentic look into the Wonnarua people’s land and traditions. Led by a knowledgeable Wine Ambassador, this experience feels intimate and personalized, with a strong emphasis on connection to the land and indigenous heritage.
Two things we particularly appreciate are the virtual Welcome to Country Smoking Ceremony, which provides a respectful and immersive introduction to the land, and the native ingredients in the brunch that follow. These touches turn a standard tasting into a meaningful cultural journey. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the duration—if you’re expecting a lengthy afternoon affair, this might feel a bit brief. However, for those seeking a well-rounded, authentic experience with limited time, it hits the mark perfectly.
This tour is perfect for culture lovers, wine enthusiasts, or families looking for a family-friendly activity. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to understand the land’s story while enjoying high-quality sparkling wines and native foods.
Key Points
- Cultural immersion: Experience a Welcome to Country ceremony led by Uncle Warren, connecting you deeply with Wonnarua traditions.
- High-quality wines: Tasting three of Tulloch’s current release sparkling wines, including Vineyard Selection Cuvée and Prosecco.
- Local ingredients: Savor a shared brunch featuring indigenous bush foods like Kakadu Plum Jam and Lemon Myrtle.
- Family-friendly: Activities for children and teens, including a Wonnarua-themed activity pack or kombucha tasting, make it accessible for all ages.
- Personalized experience: Led by a knowledgeable Wine Ambassador in a private seated setting.
- Supporting a cause: $5 from each booking goes toward protecting Wonnarua significant sites.
An In-Depth Look at the Wonnarua Sparkling Tasting Experience
When you arrive at Tulloch Wines, you’re stepping into a family-run winery with four generations of history. Their focus on tradition and quality is evident from the start. The experience begins with a virtual Welcome to Country Smoking Ceremony led by Uncle Warren, a Wonnarua Elder who shares stories and welcomes guests onto his land. This quiet, respectful introduction is a highlight, offering an authentic glimpse into the spiritual significance of the land for the Wonnarua people.
Following this, the learning component kicks in with Tulloch’s family story. The host shares how their winery has been part of the landscape for over 129 years, weaving a narrative of family dedication and local resilience. For wine aficionados, this background adds a layer of appreciation—they’re not just tasting wine; they’re tasting a piece of local history.
Next up is the main event — a private, seated tasting led by a Wine Ambassador. You’ll sample three current Tulloch sparkling wines, including their Vineyard Selection Cuvée, Cellar Door Release Prosecco, and Verascato. Each wine is carefully chosen to showcase the versatility and craftsmanship of Tulloch’s sparkling range, which has earned praise even from seasoned tasters.
What really elevates this experience is the shared brunch board featuring native ingredients. Think Kakadu Plum Jam, Lemon Myrtle, Bush Tomato Relish, and other indigenous flavors. The brunch is not only delicious but also provides a tangible taste of the land’s bounty. It’s served in a way that encourages conversation and sharing—perfect for small groups or couples.
Throughout the session, you receive individual tasting mats to guide your palate and enhance your tasting. The experience concludes with a take-home wine guide, allowing you to replicate or expand your tasting at home.
This is also a family-friendly tour—kids can enjoy a special Wonnarua-themed activity pack or a kombucha tasting for teens. The experience is designed to be inclusive, with accessible parking, entry, and friendly support dogs welcomed inside.
Planning more time in Pokolbin? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Cultural Significance and Why It Matters
This experience stands out because it’s not only about wine but about respect and recognition of the Wonnarua people’s connection to the land. The virtual Welcome to Wonnarua Country is a thoughtful gesture that reminds us of the importance of acknowledging indigenous custodianship, making the experience much more meaningful than just tasting wine.
The $5 donation from each booking demonstrates a genuine effort to support the preservation of significant sites, which adds a feel-good element to your visit. It’s a small gesture that reflects a broader commitment to cultural respect and community support.
The Practical Details: Value and Comfort
For $30, this tour offers a compact, yet complete experience that balances education, taste, and culture. Compared to larger, more commercial wine tours, the personal touch at Tulloch gives you a chance to ask questions and really connect with the stories behind the wines and the land.
The duration of 45 minutes makes it accessible for those who are tight on time or want a meaningful side activity during a day of exploring Hunter Valley. Although some might wish it lasted longer, the quality of content makes it feel just right for a morning or early afternoon.
The private group setting ensures a relaxed atmosphere, with accessible parking and seamless entry. Children and non-drinkers are warmly accommodated, making it an excellent choice for families or groups with varied interests.
How It Compares to Other Experiences
While there are many wine tastings in Hunter Valley, few combine culture, history, and native foods quite so seamlessly. The focus on indigenous traditions and native ingredients sets this apart from more typical tastings that might only cover wine.
It’s also worth noting the support for local Wonnarua sites, making your visit a bit more purposeful. If you’re looking for a short, meaningful experience that blends education and indulgence, this tour ticks all the boxes.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal if you want to deepen your understanding of Hunter Valley’s land and culture while enjoying quality sparkling wines. It’s perfect for history buffs, families, or anyone seeking a respectful introduction to First Nations traditions. If you prefer larger, more commercial tours, you might find this more intimate and meaningful.
It’s also an excellent choice for those with mobility needs, thanks to accessible parking and entry, and for non-drinkers or young visitors with the kid and teen activities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome and can participate in the Wonnarua-themed activity pack. Kids aged 3-12 years are charged at the child rate and can enjoy the activities while adults taste wine.
Can teenagers join the tasting?
Yes, teens aged 13-17 can enjoy the specialized Teens Experience, which includes a selection of specialty kombuchas paired with a local cheese box.
How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 45 minutes, making it a perfect short activity that fits well into a day of exploring Hunter Valley.
Are the wines included in the price?
Yes, you will taste three current release Tulloch sparkling wines as part of the experience. Wine purchases are not included.
Is the experience accessible?
Yes, Tulloch Wines provides accessible parking and entry, and guide/support dogs are welcome inside.
What is the significance of the Welcome to Country ceremony?
It is a virtual ceremonial welcome led by Uncle Warren, intended to respectfully acknowledge the Wonnarua people and their land.
Can I buy wine after the tasting?
While wine purchases are not included in the experience price, they are typically available for purchase at the winery.
What makes this experience unique compared to other wine tastings?
The blend of indigenous culture, native ingredients, and storytelling gives this tour a meaningful edge over standard tastings.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, advance booking is required for all visitors, including children, to ensure a seamless and personalized experience.
The Tulloch Wines Wonnarua Sparkling Tasting offers a rare chance to combine sophisticated wine tasting with authentic indigenous culture. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that respects and celebrates the land’s original custodians while providing high-quality, enjoyable sparkling wines. The personalized, intimate setting makes it a worthwhile stop for anyone wanting a deeper connection to Hunter Valley’s heritage.
Whether you’re a wine lover, a history enthusiast, or a family seeking inclusive activities, this tour strikes a fine balance between education, flavor, and respect. The thoughtful touches—native foods, the welcoming ceremony, and supporting local sites—elevate it beyond a typical tasting.
If you’re in Hunter Valley and want a meaningful, high-value experience that respects both land and tradition, this tour should definitely be on your list. It offers not just a taste of sparkling wine but also a taste of the land’s stories and spirit.
Note: This experience is available in the morning and afternoon, so plan accordingly. Remember to book ahead, especially if traveling with children or teens, and enjoy a visit that’s as enriching as it is delicious.
You can check availability for your dates here: