Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard: Picnic with Wine Masterclass Tasting

Experience the Charm of Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard: A Picnic and Wine Masterclass in Hunter Valley

Imagine strolling through a 270-acre vineyard with rolling hills and vines as far as the eye can see. At Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard, that’s exactly what you get, along with a thoughtfully curated experience that combines a self-guided museum tour, a professional wine masterclass, and a delicious picnic amid the vines. For $64.41 per person, this 2-hour adventure offers a delightful mix of education, scenic beauty, and relaxing indulgence, making it a perfect choice for anyone wanting a taste of authentic Hunter Valley life.

What we love about this experience is the personalized touch—a small group size (max 15 travelers) ensures you get plenty of attention from guides, who are both knowledgeable and friendly. The spectacular views from the vineyard provide a stunning backdrop for your picnic, making this more than just a tasting; it’s a memorable, Instagram-worthy moment. Plus, the inclusion of a gourmet picnic hamper with a bottle of wine of your choice elevates the experience beyond standard tastings.

A possible consideration is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to get to 750 De Beyers Rd in Pokolbin. Also, the tour is strictly for those 18 and older, which is typical for wine experiences but worth noting for groups with younger travelers.

This tour suits visitors who appreciate a combination of education and scenery, love tasting a curated selection of wines, and enjoy leisurely outdoor meals. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking a romantic outing, or simply want a relaxed day among the vines, this experience offers great value and authenticity.

Key Points

• Beautiful Setting: Over 270 acres of picturesque Hunter Valley vineyards provide an incredible view for your picnic.
• Expert Guidance: A professional in-house wine expert leads a masterclass, sharing insights into wine production, history, and tasting notes.
• Authentic Experience: Self-guided museum tour allows you to learn about the vineyard’s history at your own pace.
• Inclusive Package: Each guest receives a bottle of wine, a gourmet picnic hamper, and an etched glass, adding personal touches.
• Great Value: At just over $64, the experience packs in tasting, education, scenery, and a picnic, making it an excellent deal.
• Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll enjoy a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

A Deep Dive into the Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard Picnic and Masterclass

The Location and Its Atmosphere

Located at 750 De Beyers Rd in Pokolbin, the Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard offers a setting that invites relaxation and appreciation for nature. The sprawling 270-acre estate means plenty of space to spread out, find a quiet spot, and truly feel like you’ve got the vineyard to yourself. Many visitors comment on the stunning views, with some mentioning the sunset picnic as a highlight, while others describe the scenery as “beautiful and inspiring.”

The Self-Guided Museum Tour

Your journey begins with a self-guided visit to the vineyard’s onsite museum. This is a chance to get a concise but informative history of Audrey Wilkinson, one of the area’s pioneering winemakers, and understand the broader local wine tradition. The museum, although not overly large, offers enough details to deepen your appreciation for the wine you’ll taste later. It’s a relaxed way to get acquainted with the estate’s heritage without feeling rushed.

The Masterclass with a Wine Expert

Following the museum visit, you’ll participate in a wine masterclass, led by an in-house guide who is both knowledgeable and engaging. The reviews repeatedly praise guides like Gemma and Meg for their friendly approach and clear explanations. Expect to learn about how wine is made, the different production methods, and what makes each variety unique. The tasting session features premium wines, carefully selected to showcase the vineyard’s best offerings.

Many reviewers mention that the guides are patient and happy to answer questions, making the tasting both educational and enjoyable. The inclusion of an etched Audrey Wilkinson glass adds a nice souvenir touch, turning a simple tasting into a keepsake.

The Gourmet Picnic

Once your tasting is complete, it’s time for your gourmet picnic hamper. Each person receives a thoughtfully prepared basket, which you can share with a partner or friend. The picnic setup is designed for outdoor enjoyment—think delicious food, a comfortable rug, and a bottle of wine of your choice. The reviews frequently highlight the delicious food and the beautiful picnic setting, often paired with views of the vines or even wildlife like kangaroos.

Many guests say that the picnic made their experience special, especially at sunset, turning a wine tasting into a romantic or family-friendly outing. The ability to choose your scenic spot within the estate means you can tailor the experience to your mood, whether seeking quiet reflection or a lively gathering.

The Experience’s Flow and Group Size

The tour is approximately 2 hours long, with a flexible schedule allowing you to pick departure times that suit your plans. The small group size (maximum 15 people) ensures a personal touch, with plenty of time for questions and relaxed conversation. No transportation is included, so plan your arrival accordingly — many visitors find it easiest to rent a car or join a guided transfer.

Authenticity and Value

What makes this experience stand out is the balance of education, scenery, and indulgence. You’re not just tasting wines; you’re learning about their origins, enjoying spectacular views, and savoring a gourmet meal—all at a reasonable price point. Many reviewers comment on its excellent value, especially considering the quality of wines and the personalized service.

Authentic Feedback from Visitors

Authentic reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with comments like “Gemma was an awesome guide and very informative” and “Cameron ensured we were comfortable.” The scenic views and quality of wines are also frequently highlighted, with many describing the overall experience as “beautiful,” “special,” and “relaxing.”

Practical Tips

• Arrive a few minutes early to settle in and enjoy the views.
• Bring a camera or smartphone for photos—views are stunning.
• Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor seating.
• While transportation isn’t included, most visitors find renting a car or arranging a driver is the easiest way to get here.
• Remember, minimum age is 18; this is a wine experience for adults only.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed, educational, and scenic experience, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a more personalized wine tasting away from the busier, larger wineries. Foodies who appreciate well-prepared picnic fare will find the meal a nice bonus. And if you’re a fan of beautiful vineyard views, this experience offers some of the best in Hunter Valley.

This tour is less suited for those seeking a fast-paced or large-group activity, or travelers without access to transportation, given that the location isn’t within walking distance or public transit.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation to and from Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard is not provided, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there.

What is the cost of this experience?
It costs approximately $64.41 per person, which includes the wine tasting, masterclass, picnic hamper, and a souvenir etched glass.

How long does the experience last?
The entire experience is roughly 2 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each part without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the minimum drinking age is 18, and children are not allowed on this tour.

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, the tour offers a choice of departure times to fit your schedule.

What is included in the package?
You receive a bottle of wine, a gourmet picnic hamper, wine tasting, a professional guide, and your etched glass.

Are the wines local?
Yes, the wines are produced on-site at Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard, showcasing their best selections.

Is the picnic setup outdoor only?
You can find a scenic spot within the vineyard to enjoy your picnic, often with views over the vines or sunset.

How many people participate in this tour?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, making for a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel and get a refund?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In summary, this combined wine education, scenic picnic, and vineyard experience at Audrey Wilkinson offers a charming, authentic way to enjoy Hunter Valley’s renowned wines. It’s well-suited for those who value personal interactions, beautiful views, and good food—all at a fair price. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a leisurely day among the vines, this tour delivers a memorable taste of Australian wine country.