A Fun, Relaxed Tasting Experience at Savannah Estate
Mount View boasts some of the most stunning views of the Hunter Valley and some of the region's most picturesque vineyards. Nestled in this beautiful corner of the world is Savannah Estate - the perfect first stop on any wine tour. While it is close to Cessnock and has easy access for travellers, it will feel like you've arrived in another world.
The Savannah Estate story began in 1964 when Ian and Shirley Peterson purchased an old dairy farm at Mount View, intending to farm cattle. In 1971, ten acres of Semillon were planted to supply the nearby McWilliams winery. As they say – the rest is history.
As the vines flourished, new varieties were planted, and by 1981, 40 acres of vines had been planted consisting of Semillon, Chardonnay, Viognier, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir. In 1981, Petersons Wines was formed, and the cellar door in Mount View opened that same year, cementing the Peterson family as one of the early contributors to the Hunter Valley wine renaissance, which continues to this day. Today, Ian's son, Colin, runs and manages the business, maintaining and building on his father's legacy.
Savannah Estate was later established on a neighbouring property and named after Savannah Peterson - third-generation winemaker, granddaughter to Ian and Shirley Peterson and daughter to Colin and Judy Peterson, who involved their daughter Savannah in winemaking from an early age.
Savannah has since taken the helm of Savannah Estate, involved across all areas of the business and producing quality wines from small select parcels of premium fruit grown in renowned viticulture areas that best reflect their regionality and character.
Savannah embraces wine and food with the same intensity and passion as her forbears and is always hard at work with Gary Reed, who has been the Chief Winemaker across Savannah Estate and Petersons Wines for more than 30 years, to produce new and alternate varieties and styles that include Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Pinot Gris, Vermentino, Tempranillo, Rosé, Chambourcin, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz as well as a Sparkling White and Sparkling Malbec.
When you get to know the Peterson family history, it's clear their wine isn't produced in the pursuit of money, although it is profitable. Instead, it's derived from the family's passion and love for the winemaking industry and their close ties to the Hunter wine region.
"I can confidently say that I truly love what I do, and it never feels like work," says Savannah.
"Making wine is less about business than it is a passion or a hobby. The fact that people buy our wine to take home and enjoy it – that's our reward."
Well positioned to keep the Peterson family wine legacy alive with fresh ideas, love and hard work – Savannah is uncompromising when it comes to consistency and quality.
"Consistency is key at Savannah Estate; wine trends may come and go, but quality will forever be in fashion."
Maintaining her grandfather and father's tried and tested traditional techniques, Savannah is now focused on the 2023 vintage and steering the winery towards bigger and better wines with every vintage.
"Like any business, a large part of our success can be attributed to the people who work and run Savannah Estate daily. We're lucky to employ some of the most knowledgeable and passionate staff in the Hunter Valley, many of whom have extensive wine industry experience and deep roots in the region," says Savannah.
"While experience counts, so does attitude, and our staff aren't just wine connoisseurs, they're also really great people who all contribute a tight-knit culture of positivity and fun."
Of course, all of this makes for a fun, relaxed tasting experience at the Cellar Door, and there's nothing like a romantic country scene to help you relax, enjoy the view and, most importantly – drink wine!
But if you don't feel like wine tasting, grab a glass (or bottle) and a delicious cheese plate made to order to recharge the battery. The Cellar Door also offers a range of condiments and gift ideas from local producers and welcomes your fur babies!
Walk-ins are accepted when available, otherwise please call to book at www.savannahestate.com.au.
