Terroir Translated Hunter Valley Signature Wines
The Hunter Valley stands as Australia's oldest and most distinguished wine region, where nearly two centuries of winemaking heritage have cultivated world-class wines that celebrate the unique terroir of this remarkable landscape.
At the heart of the Hunter Valley's global reputation are its distinctive Semillon and Shiraz—the region's true hallmark varieties. Hunter Valley Semillon, described as "Australia's wine gift to the world" by renowned British wine journalist and critic Jancis Robinson, represents a truly singular achievement. This flagship variety produces wines of extraordinary quality and longevity, with aging potential stretching 20 years or more, creating a style that remains unmatched worldwide.
While over 150 cellar doors now grace the Hunter's picturesque wine trails, you'd be hard-pressed to find one without exceptional Semillon or Shiraz among their premier offerings. Beyond these signature varieties, the region's talented winemakers also excel with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Verdelho.
Innovation flourishes here too, with impressive results from alternative varieties including Grenache, Tempranillo, Sangiovese, Durif, Nebbiolo, Barbera, Vermentino, Fiano, Pinot Grigio, and Viognier— testament to the region's versatility and pioneering spirit.
So, what exactly makes a wine "signature" or "flagship"?
The definition remains wonderfully subjective. While no formal industry criteria exist, flagship wines universally represent exceptional quality, embodying both the grape variety and the region's distinctive character. A winery's flagship might be its most awarded wine, the winemaker's personal favourite, or the bottling that best captures their artistic vision.
This concept extends globally, with regions worldwide known for their definitive varieties: Malbec in Argentina, Sangiovese in Tuscany, Pinotage in South Africa, Tempranillo in Spain, Zinfandel in California, and Riesling in Clare Valley.
These signature wines serve as brilliant ambassadors, drawing enthusiasts to discover not only these standout varieties but all the treasures a region offers—wines that eloquently express the unique confluence of place, tradition, craftsmanship, and terroir that makes the Hunter Valley genuinely exceptional.
Hungerford Hill
Classic 2024 Verdelho
Verdelho is the Hunter Valley's forgotten gift. Coming from Madeira, Portugal. It thrives in the Hunter Valley due to its warm climate. Known for its bright fruity aromatics and lively acidity, Verdelho offers a treat for the palate with soft finish.
TASTING Aromatics of pineapple and mandarin that may also translate to the palate. The wine's acidity is the driving force, providing a crisp and invigorating mouthfeel.
FOOD MATCH Seafood such as grilled prawns and scallops. Spicy food or big bold intense cheeses.
CELLARING Best for drinking now.
PRICE $27
Latitude 32 Wines
The Enigma 2024
The Enigma represents Latitude 32’s pursuit of innovation. A white wine in appearance but with red wine characteristics, the Enigma is a wine that pushes your sensory boundaries. Inspired by travels to Alsace, France, this is possibly the only true white Pinot Noir made in Australia.
TASTING Made from 100% Pinot Noir, the Enigma showcases a refined elegance, marked by well-integrated oak and subtle tannins that provide a sophisticated structure. On the palate, it unfolds with layers of berries, melon, stone fruit, and baked apple, all underscored by a delicate spice. The bright acidity provides a firm backbone and a memorable finish. But it’s the unexpected hue in your glass that challenges expectations.
FOOD MATCH Pair with a dinner party and people who think they know everything about wine.
CELLARING 5-8 years.
PRICE $65
Wandin Valley Estate
2023 Reserve Semillon
Wandin Valley Estate's 2023 Reserve Semillon is a true expression of just how good Hunter Semillon can be. Only premium small parcel fruit has been sourced to create this crisp, yet refreshing classic, Hunter Valley staple.
TASTING Lemon zest and mineral undertones.
FOOD MATCH Freshly shucked oysters with a lime caviar.
CELLARING Up to 12 Years.
PRICE $45
Bonvilla Estate
Mia Rosè
Perfected from 100 % Shiraz grapes, single vineyard, Hunter Valley. Pale to mid salmon pink with a light orange blush.
TASTING Notes of strawberry, cherry and rose water, deliciously dry, light blush.
FOOD MATCH Pan seared swordfish on pea purée.
CELLARING Designed to enjoy now.
PRICE $32
Blueberry Hill Vineyard
2023 Shiraz
An exciting change in style for Blueberry Hill Vineyard, the 2023 Shiraz is an equal blend of estate grown and Barossa Valley sourced fruit, resulting in a unique, delicious wine, bringing the depth and weight of the Barossa to compliment the
fruit complexity of the Hunter Valley.
TASTING Distinct berry notes on the initial palate, with a smoky, leathery finish. Oak presence is subtle.
FOOD MATCH Red meats, especially steak.
CELLARING 10-15 yrs.
PRICE $50
Ben Ean
Still House Wines Tempranillo
The Still House Tempranillo is sourced from a one and half acre block on the Ben Ean Vineyard. This planting is believed to the be oldest planting of Tempranillo in the Hunter, planted in the mid 1990’s. Tempranillo is a variety that is wonderfully
suited to the warm climate of the Hunter Valley.
TASTING With vibrant red hues balancing out the lifted, perfumed, floral and savoury nose with fruit aromas. Upfront flavours of blood plum and raspberry give a mid-weight and gamey mouth feel. The mid palate is spicy with flavours of dried herbs.
FOOD MATCH BBQ lamb cutlets, cured meats and pickled vegetables.
CELLARING Now – 4 years
PRICE $38
