The Hunter Valley Wine Industry Association has announced its line up of "home turf" and Sydney-based wine and food festivals for 2010. Each gastronomic experience will see produce and wine making families of the Hunter Valley showcasing their very best. Events throughout the year will include:
Hunter Uncorked Pyrmont - Sunday 18 April
Hosted in Pyrmont Bay Park, the "BBQ & Shiraz" themed festival will be perfect heading into winter months. 20 wineries and restaurants, live DJs, interactive games with Hunter Valley winemakers and chefs to compete in wine spitting and boules competitions will entertain the heart and soul of Sydney. For more information visit www.hunteruncorked.com.au
Hunter Valley Wine and Food Month – Throughout June
This Tourism NSW Regional Flagship Event is a non-stop month of activities where guests will sharpen their culinary skills as they participate in a multitude of wine and food master classes. Learn cheese making from the very best, preservative and jam making, olive appreciation, and wine and food matching. Indulge in ‘Flavourfest’ at Hunter Valley Gardens, and meet renowned chefs Peter Evans, Janelle Bloom, and Matthew Kemp. Relax by the fireside at one of the many fabulous resorts or cottages with a glass of Hunter Valley wine in hand. Dine with the winemakers or explore their vineyard and uncover the gems of this historic region. The list is endless but start your journey now, as early accommodation bookings are highly recommended. For more information visit www.hunterwineandfood.com.au
Hunter Valley Semillon & Seafood – Friday 8 to Sunday 10 October (changed from April date)
This iconic event of all things Semillon and Seafood will have an exciting new format perfect for the Spring months. Moved to coincide with the release of the 2010 Hunter Valley Semillons, this will mean you’ll get to try them first! Saturday’s "Main Event" will host master classes with Peter Bourne and cooking shows with major surprise guests. Indulge in fresh seafood from the Newcastle and Port Stephens region and discover the perfect marriage of oysters and Semillon, and cheer on the winemakers in the great Winemaker cook off. Special Semillon dinners, lunches and master classes with the great winemakers of the Hunter Valley will be on throughout the weekend. For more information visit www.huntersemillonandseafood.com.au
Hunter Uncorked Balmoral – Sunday 7 November
With thousands expected to attend, this wine and food frolic by the seaside is nothing short of spectacular. 30 iconic and boutique Hunter Valley wineries and restaurants will be represented and will be backed up by live jazz bands, local artists displaying their work on the promenade. For more information visit www.hunteruncorked.com.au