Premium Hunter Wine Tour with Degustation Lunch and Paired Wines

A luxury taste of Hunter Valley: boutique wineries, farm-to-table dining, and behind-the-scenes access

If you’re looking to explore Hunter Valley’s wine scene beyond the busy tourist spots, this Premium Hunter Wine Tour offers a more intimate, authentic experience. For $336.66 per person, you’ll spend around six hours visiting two boutique, family-run wineries renowned for their organic and sustainable practices. The tour includes a degustation lunch paired with premium wines and a chance to go behind the scenes at Margan and Krinklewood, two vineyards that exemplify the region’s dedication to quality and eco-consciousness.

What we love about this tour is the personalized atmosphere — a smaller group of up to 11 travelers means more meaningful conversations and less rushed sightseeing. Plus, the focus on sustainable practices and organic wines makes it a compelling choice for eco-minded travelers. The highlight for many is the delectable farm-to-table lunch at Margan, set amid stunning vineyard views, and the chance to see peacocks wandering freely at Krinklewood.

A possible consideration? The tour’s pace is relaxed and unhurried, which we appreciate, but those wanting a quick overview of Hunter Valley might find it a bit slow. This experience suits foodies, wine lovers, and those seeking a deeper connection to the region’s organic wine culture, rather than just a surface-level tasting.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Limited group size enhances the personal touch and meaningful storytelling.
• Unique Access: Behind-the-scenes at Margan and a guided tasting at Krinklewood offer insights you won’t find on larger tours.
• Sustainable Focus: Both wineries emphasize organic and biodynamic practices, aligning with eco-conscious values.
• Exceptional Food: A multi-course degustation lunch paired with estate wines elevates the experience.
• Stunning Scenery: Vineyard views and picturesque gardens provide plenty of photo-worthy moments.
• Authentic Local Hosts: Daniel, the guide, shares deep regional knowledge and personal stories.

An in-depth look at this Hunter Valley wine experience

The Start: Picking up from Broke or nearby locations

This tour begins at 10:15 am, with pickup included if arranged locally. The small group size means you’re likely to get to know your fellow travelers without feeling lost in a crowd. Tour operator Coast to Cork has a reputation for thoughtful, personalized outings that emphasize quality over quantity.

Visiting Margan: A behind-the-scenes journey

Our first stop is Margan Wines, a family-run estate known for its low-intervention winemaking and organic practices. We loved the way Daniel guided us through the “Ultimate Experience,” which isn’t just tasting wine but understanding the entire process.

Walking through their kitchen garden and estate farm, we saw where much of their produce is grown — a true farm-to-bottle approach. The view of the Brokenback Range provided a breathtaking backdrop, emphasizing how much thought goes into their sustainable ethos. The highlight was sampling wine directly from the barrel, which offers a rare glimpse into the aging process and how different tanks and barrels influence flavor.

Post-tour, we sat down to a multi-course degustation lunch at Margan’s carbon-neutral restaurant. The menu changes seasonally but consistently emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and artisan techniques. Each dish was paired expertly with Margan’s estate wines, elevating the flavors and making for a memorable dining experience that felt indulgent yet rooted in regional produce.

Krinklewood: biodynamic beauty and peaceful gardens

In the afternoon, we headed to Krinklewood Vineyard, renowned for its biodynamic farming and stunning setting. Surrounded by lavender gardens and roaming peacocks, this estate offers a visual feast as well as a wine tasting.

Daniel led us through a guided tasting of their elegant, European-style wines, which showcase the vineyard’s commitment to organic and biodynamic cultivation. The setting is both chic and natural, allowing us to enjoy the wines in a peaceful environment that feels almost like a private garden party.

The overall experience: pacing, insights, and authenticity

Throughout the day, we appreciated the emphasis on storytelling and connection. Daniel’s local knowledge brought the vineyards to life, making the tasting more than just sipping wine — it was about understanding the region’s ethos, practices, and flavors.

The relaxed pace means ample time to enjoy each stop, ask questions, and take photos without feeling rushed. The stunning views at both wineries reinforce the region’s natural beauty and the care that goes into their vineyards.

Value and practicality

While $336.66 may seem on the higher end for a day trip, the all-inclusive nature — with pickup, guided tours, tastings, lunch, and wines to take home — makes it a solid value. You won’t be rushing from one tasting to the next, and the personalized experience provides a level of depth and authenticity many larger tours can’t match.

Who is this tour for?

This experience is perfect for wine aficionados eager to learn about boutique, organic winemaking and food lovers who enjoy a multi-course lunch paired with estate wines. It’s also suitable for eco-conscious travelers interested in biodynamic and sustainable practices. If you’re after a slow-paced, meaningful day in the Hunter Valley with plenty of stunning vistas and local storytelling, this is an excellent choice.

The Sum Up

For those seeking a more authentic, relaxed glimpse into Hunter Valley’s boutique wineries, this premium tour hits the mark. The combination of behind-the-scenes access, sustainable practices, and a farm-to-table lunch offers a well-rounded experience that goes beyond generic tastings. The small group size fosters a friendly, informal atmosphere, ideal for making new friends or simply soaking in the region’s natural beauty.

While the price may be higher than some mass-market tours, what you gain is a genuinely personalized trip that highlights regional craftsmanship and sustainability. It’s especially suited for travelers who value quality over quantity, enjoy learning about wine production, and want to experience the scenic charm of Hunter Valley without the crowds.

If you’re after an appreciative, leisurely day with authentic storytelling and picturesque settings, this tour is a worthwhile investment in your Hunter Valley journey.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered if you’re located nearby, and the tour includes transportation between wineries.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 6 hours, from the start at 10:15 am.

What are the main stops on the tour?
You’ll visit Margan Wines for a behind-the-scenes tour and degustation lunch, then head to Krinklewood Vineyard for a guided tasting.

Can I expect to taste wines directly from barrels or tanks?
Yes, at Margan, you can sample wines directly from the barrel, which is a rare and engaging experience.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or dietary restrictions?
While specific dietary accommodations aren’t detailed, the focus on farm-to-table food and premium dining suggests options can be discussed with the operator.

Are wines included in the price?
The tour includes tastings at both wineries, and the lunch is paired with estate-grown wines. You’ll likely be able to purchase additional bottles if desired.

What is the setting like at Krinklewood?
Expect a beautiful, peaceful environment surrounded by lavender gardens, with peacocks roaming freely, creating a very picturesque backdrop.

Is this tour appropriate for people with mobility issues?
While not explicitly stated, the tour involves walking through vineyards and gardens, so it’s best suited for those with moderate mobility.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is limited to 11 travelers, so booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot.

What makes this tour stand out from others in Hunter Valley?
The emphasis on small-group intimacy, sustainable practices, and gourmet dining makes this experience stand apart from larger, more commercial options.