As the Hunter Valley shakes off the winter chill and the days grow longer, now is the perfect time to refresh your wine rack. This spring, we are thrilled to unveil five stunning new releases—four crisp, vibrant wines from our 2026 vintage, plus a very special 2025 single-vineyard Italian varietal close to our family’s heart.

The 2026 vintage here in the Hunter was fast and furious. Ideal hot and dry conditions condensed our harvesting window into an intense four-week sprint. Because the vines flourished during the dry growing season, the resulting fruit quality was exceptionally high—an absolute dream for a small, family-owned winery like ours.

Combined with our 2025 Single Vineyard Pecorino, this lineup is built for sunshine, long lunches, and good times with great friends.

2026 Special Release Guardian Rosé 

We love crafting rosé, so bringing bubbles into the mix was an easy decision. Exclusive to our DeWine Club members and cellar door guests, this sparkling rosé is crafted from estate-grown Merlot and Shiraz. It bursts with crushed red berries and an energetic, fine bead of bubbles before wrapping up with a crisp, brilliantly dry finish.

• How to enjoy it: Chilled in the afternoon sun alongside a grazing board loaded with triple cream brie, salty prosciutto, and crusty bread, or paired with smoked salmon blinis.

2026 Estate Rosé 

If you prefer your pink wine still, our 2026 Estate Rosé is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Freshly pressed Merlot and Shiraz juices were fermented on their skins for just two hours to achieve a delicate cotton-candy hue. Cool fermentation locked in aromatics of strawberries, peaches, and cream, backed by lush raspberry fruit and lively natural acidity.

• How to enjoy it: Made to be drunk in its youth during long lunches that merge into dinner. Think pink for food pairings: charcuterie, grilled salmon fillet, tuna niçoise, or a crispy pork banh mi.

2026 Estate Semillon

Grown on our Lovedale Road property where our first Semillon vines were planted in the early 1990s, this wine is a testament to the Hunter Valley’s world-renowned viticultural heritage. Expect a highly aromatic nose of bright lemon and fresh lime, leading into a punchy, bone-dry palate with subtle jasmine florals and a racy line of acidity.

• How to enjoy it: Pour a glass right now with a dozen freshly shucked Sydney Rock oysters, crispy salt and pepper squid, or grilled flathead. Have patience? Tuck a few bottles in the cellar for five or more years to watch those citrus notes evolve into rich, creamy lemon curd and meringue.

2026 Estate Verdelho 

Verdelho has deep roots in the Hunter Valley dating back to the 1820s, and our Lovedale Road vines (planted in the early 90s) continue to do this historic variety proud. This 2026 release delivers an immediate tropical hit of lychee, passionfruit, and crushed pineapple, balanced by bright natural acidity and a clean, dry finish.

• How to enjoy it: Its juicy fruit profile and bright acidity make it a brilliant partner for spice. Pair it with fragrant Thai green chicken curry, Vietnamese prawn rice paper rolls, or spicy fish tacos with mango salsa.

2025 Single Vineyard Steven Vineyard Pecorino

Rounding out our spring release is a wine that pays homage to the De Iuliis family’s roots in Abruzzo, Italy. We were the first in the Hunter Valley to plant this native Italian white variety back in 2020 on the alluvial, sandy flats of our Steven Vineyard. Handpicked, basket-pressed, and aged on full lees in neutral French oak barriques for nine months using indigenous yeast, the 2025 vintage offers incredible palate weight, creamy texture, and a zippy salinity.

• How to enjoy it: Drink now or cellar for 3–5 years. Pair Italian varietals with Italian food: calamari fritti, cavolo nero pesto pappardelle, or Risotto alla Milanese. Buon appetito!

From world-class cellar doors to long lunches and fireside feasts, the Hunter Valley has perfected the art of indulgence. Here’s how to make the most of 48 delicious hours.

By Olivia Jay, Halliday Wine Companion

Want to squeeze a whole Hunter Valley vineyard escape into two glorious days? Perfect. Buckle up (wine glass in hand) and let’s roll through the best way to spend a (quite packed) 48 hours in NSW’s Hunter Valley.

 

Getting there

If you’re coming from interstate, your best gateway to the Hunter Valley is Newcastle Airport. Recent renovations to the airport include larger, stylish arrival halls, better signage and enhanced pick-up zones, meaning that you can be in and out smoothly and on your way in no time. The airport is less than an hour’s drive from Pokolbin, so once you’re on the road it’s all rolling hills, gum trees and a sense that good things are ahead.

Day 1: The perfect introduction

Morning

Once you’ve settled in for your drive, the first item on the agenda is finding a good coffee. I’d recommend stopping by Cafe Enzo on Broke Road, Pokolbin; the courtyard of the Tuscan-inspired cafe is glorious on a sunny day, and it’s also right next door to the Charteris Wines cellar door. Owned by Kiwi-born winemaker PJ Charteris and his wife, Chrissi, Charteris produces elegant wines from Central Otago and the Hunter Valley. If you’ve got time, why not stop in for a tasting and sample your first semillon of the trip?

Lunch

Your next stop of the day is Bistro Molines in Mount View. With linen-draped alfresco tables, rustic charm and sweeping valley views, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve wound up in France, not Australia. Lead by Robert and Sally Molines and head chef Garreth Robbs, the menu features French provincial dishes perfect for sharing and savouring over a long, long lunch. Order the crumbed zucchini flowers, a glass of chardonnay and settle in.

Afternoon

Once you’ve finished your long lunch, it’s time to check in at your base for the next 48 hours: The Lane Retreat. Nestled on 15 hectares of vineyard and natural bushland, The Lane Retreat features 60 premium suites dotted across the property, each with a private deck for you to enjoy the view and the fresh vine air.

If you’ve got time before dinner, go for a stroll around the lake, take a dip in the pool or (if you’re like me) sleep off your post-lunch food coma with a quick nap. You’ll want to be refreshed and with an appetite for the evening ahead.

Dinner

As night falls, head to EXP. Restaurant – recipient of two Hats and Regional Restaurant of the Year in the 2026 SMH Good Food Guide. Founded in 2015 by husband and wife duo Emma and Frank Fawkner, EXP. champions creativity and local ingredients, so come expecting creative plates and an immersive dining experience (and a few ‘wow’ moments). I’m still thinking about the buttery sourdough crumpet topped with salmon caviar, sour cream and finger lime.

Day 2: Food, wine and a final farewell

Morning

Start slow – you’re on Hunter time now. As part of your stay at The Lane Retreat, you’ll receive a complimentary selection of gourmet breakfast provisions ready for you to enjoy, so can start your morning at your leisure. Grap a coffee from The Lane Pantry, just a few minutes’ stroll from your room, or enjoy a juice on your private deck. Don’t sleep in too long though, because you’ve got another busy day ahead.

After breakfast, start your day the right way with a tasting flight at one of the Hunter’s many standout cellar doors. Unfortunately, it’s impossible to visit them all, so here’s a shortlist for you to choose from:

• Thomas Wines – Come for a deep dive into the region’s defining varieties. Andrew Thomas is one of the Hunter’s leading champions of semillon and shiraz (two of his wines made this year’s Top 100 Wines list), and his single-vineyard tastings show just how expressive these classics can be.

• First Creek Wines – This 5-Red Star Halliday winery is the family business of Greg Silkman, son Shaun Silkman and Shaun’s wife, Liz, Halliday’s 2025 Winemaker of the Year. First Creek Wines encompasses a range of classic and emerging varieties, with something for every palate and pricepoint, so it’s a great spot to pick up a bottle for your suitcase, too.

• Scarborough Wine Co – This homely cellar door feels like stepping into your favourite family lunch, only with better chardonnay. Expect warm hospitality, killer views and wines that always overdeliver.

• Bimbadgen – Bimbadgen is your go-to for big Hunter energy: striking architecture, sweeping vineyard vistas and a lineup of wines that shine just as brightly. It’s the kind of place where one tasting can easily turn into an entire afternoon.

• De Iuliis – De Iuliis is where serious quality meets zero pretension. Think award-winning drops served with a generous side of fun. Come for the standout semillon and shiraz; stay because the vibes (and the wines) are just that good.

Lunch

Make your way out to Broke for lunch at Margan Wines & Restaurant, where ‘estate to plate’ isn’t a catchphrase. It’s slightly out of the main hub, but it’s well worth the trip. Almost every ingredient comes from the on-site kitchen garden or surrounding farmland, and the wines are crafted just metres away.

Established by Andrew and Lisa Margan, and now incorporating two of the second generation, Alessa and Ollie, in viticulture and winemaking respectively, Margan crafts wines from Hunter classics as well as new and exciting varieties. If, like me, you love riesling, make sure you try the Huesgen & Margan Riesling – a collaboration between Andrew Margan of the Hunter Valley and Ado Huesgen of the Mosel.

Afternoon

It’s hard to squeeze everything into 48 hours, so we’ve got a couple of options for you here. Drop by Yellow Billy Restaurant for a pre-dinner drink or small plate by the firepit. This Pokolbin gem centres around open-flame cooking – think fire-roasted meats and vegetables – and makes for a perfect in-between stop to graze, sip and recharge. Or, if you couldn’t eat a thing more, swing by specialty butcher Hungerford Meat Co. in Branxton. Their premium cuts, heritage-breed meats and house-made charcuterie are perfect souvenirs for the trip home – or the next time you’re cooking with a glass of semillon in hand.

Dinner

As if you haven’t eaten and drunk enough already, it’s time for one last (spectacular) hurrah. Round off your Hunter adventure with dinner at Muse Restaurant, located at Hungerford Hill. With a five-course set menu for dinner Tuesday–Friday, and a seven-course menu on Saturday, Muse is contemporary Australian fine dining done right. The menu is seasonal, with many of the ingredients coming from owner and chef Troy Rhoades-Brown’s personal idyllic kitchen garden.

Confession time: I’d never had a scotch egg before visiting Muse, and I’m pretty sure it’s ruined all other scotch eggs for me for life – I can’t imagine anything could top this. Perfectly paired to Hungerford Hill wines, this dining experience is a fitting finale to your 48-hour feast.

Read the entire article over at Halliday Wine Companion here. 

Join us from September 11-13 for a weekend of flavour-filled fun, fueled by the incredible wineries, restaurants, and activity providers in the heart of the Hunter Valley’s wine region.

Find vibrant cellar doors, live music, incredible gourmet flavours, sweeping vineyard views, the finest wine the Hunter Valley has to offer, and a buzzing festival atmosphere from start to finish.

Enjoy 18 amazing events over three days, Saturday shuttle bus access, tasting vouchers, exclusive Stay 3 Pay 2 accommodation deals over the D’Vine weekend, and with our Early Bird deals, you can save on registration and tickets to our opening night party, Hunter Coastal & Lifestyle Winemaker’s Showcase.

Early Bird perks don’t stop at savings; every Early Bird Festival registration puts your name into the draw to win 6 bottles of Hunter Valley Wine!

Start your D’Vine weekend early! Take advantage of the early accommodation check-ins to spend the midday and afternoon savouring the flavours of Pokolbin before the official D’Vine opening night party!

Register today and start planning your D’Vine weekend!

Let’s be real for a second—the cost of living right now absolutely sucks, and don’t even get us started on the price of fuel. Since filling up the tank and buying groceries shouldn’t mean sacrificing your sanity (or your wine time), we wanted to do something massive for our favourite people.

To help you escape the daily grind without breaking the bank, we are rolling out our biggest accommodation offer ever, exclusively for our Wine Club family.

We are doubling your standard discount to a massive 30% off any of our Hunter Valley accommodation bookings from now until the 31st of August. Plus, to make sure you have plenty of time to unwind, we are throwing in an extra night absolutely free!

Pack the car, let us take care of you in the Hunter. You’ve earned it!

Looking for the perfect family getaway this Easter school holidays? De Iuliis Wines has you covered with the incredible Hunter Valley Family Fun Pass! This all-in-one experience is designed to create unforgettable memories for both adults and kids, showcasing the best of the Hunter Valley’s food, wine, and wildlife.

Why Choose the De Iuliis Hunter Valley Family Fun Pass?

Planning family holidays can be stressful. But with our curated pass, you can relax and enjoy a seamless adventure. We’ve handpicked the top attractions in the region, ensuring a diverse and exciting experience for everyone.

What’s Included?

• De Iuliis Wines: A Sophisticated Start for Adults, Fun for Kids!
  • Kick off your adventure at our Cellar Door! Adults can indulge in a delightful wine tasting, while the kids are entertained with a special activity pack and snacks.
• Hunter Belle Cheese Room: A Taste of Local Delights!
  • Savour the flavours of the Hunter Valley with a cheese and fudge tasting, followed by delicious gelato for the whole family.
• Taste of the Country: Hearty Meals and Warm Hospitality!
  • Enjoy a satisfying lunch with a choice of wine, beer, or soft drink for adults, and a kid-friendly meal with drinks for the little ones.
• Hunter Valley Wildlife Park: An Animal Adventure!
  • Immerse yourselves in the wonders of wildlife, with encounters with lions, binturongs, and a variety of Australian and exotic animals.

Perfect for Easter School Holidays!

• Flexibility: Enjoy the pass over 7 days, allowing for a relaxed and personalised holiday experience.
• Educational Fun: The Wildlife Park provides a unique opportunity for children to learn about animals.
• Gourmet Experiences: Indulge in the region’s finest wines, cheeses, and culinary delights.
• Value for Money: This all-inclusive pass offers exceptional value for families.

How to Get Your Pass:

• Collect your pass from De Iuliis Wines, 1616 Broke Road, Pokolbin, from 10am onwards.
• Vouchers are valid for 7 days, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

Make This Easter Unforgettable!

Treat your family to an adventure they’ll cherish forever this Easter school holidays. The Hunter Valley Family Fun Pass is your ticket to a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and culinary delights.

Plan Your Trip:

• Explore the Hunter Valley: www.winecountry.com.au
• Book Your Accommodation: huntervalleystays.com.au

The 2026 vintage officially kicked off during the second week of January, fuelled by a hot, dry end to the year that accelerated ripening. The heatwaves in November were followed by a welcome, milder December, allowing the fruit to develop more patiently and in balance.

As is tradition, Chardonnay was the first variety to leave the vine, handpicked from our Steven and Lovedale Road vineyards. It was quickly followed by our Verdelho, Semillon, and Pecorino. These early picks captured the bright, crisp acidity we look for, setting a high bar for the season.

What a difference a few weeks make! The winery floor is now stained a glorious deep purple as we shift our focus from the whites to the reds. Our Shiraz and Tempranillo blocks have been harvested and are currently bubbling away in the fermenters. Thanks to that milder December, the tannins had the luxury of time to ripen beautifully without sugar levels spiking.

This year, the Shiraz is showing incredible primary fruit intensity—think dark satsuma plum and cracked black pepper. Because the fruit arrived at the winery so cool and intact, we’ve been able to extend the ‘cold soak’ period, extracting deep colour and silky tannins before alcohol development begins.

For the Tempranillo, we are focusing on preserving its natural vibrancy. We’ve opted for a slightly cooler fermentation temperature to keep those bright, fleshy cherry notes at the forefront, ensuring the wine remains elegant rather than heavy. The balance of acidity across both varieties is the best we’ve seen in years.”
The team is currently working around the clock to manage the peak of the crush. If the current quality in the tanks and barrels is any indication, 2026 will be a vintage for the cellar.

Cheers,
Mike

Owner & Winemaker

There is an unmistakable hum in the air across the Hunter Valley right now. The tractors are out, the fruit is heavy on the vines, and at De Iuliis Wines, the first crates of the 2026 vintage are officially hitting the winery floor.

While the Hunter Valley is beautiful year-round, there is no period more electric than harvest season. If you have ever wanted to go beyond the cellar door and see how world-class Semillon and Shiraz are actually made, there is no better time to book our Deluxe Experience Winery Tour.

The Magic of Harvest in the Hunter Valley

Harvest is the “grand finale” of the vineyard cycle. In Pokolbin, this usually kicks off in January with our iconic Hunter Valley Semillon, followed closely by Chardonnay and our award-winning Shiraz.

Visiting during this window (January through March) means you aren’t just visiting a tasting room—you’re visiting a working production house. You’ll smell the fermenting juice, see the cellar team in action, and witness the precise moment when “grapes” officially start their journey to becoming “fine wine.”

Inside the De Iuliis Deluxe Experience

Our Deluxe Experience was designed for the wine lover who wants to see the “why” and “how” behind the bottle. It is an intimate, guided journey that bridges the gap between the vineyard and the glass.

What to Expect on Your Tour:

• A Behind-the-Scenes Access Pass: Step into the heart of the winery. We’ll take you through the production area where you can see the sorting, crushing, and fermentation process firsthand.

• The Winemaking Philosophy: Learn about our small-batch approach and why our winemakers focus on regional typicity and modern elegance.

• Guided Premium Tasting: After the tour, settle into our private tasting area. You’ll enjoy a curated flight of our current releases, including our highly-awarded Single Vineyard wines.

• Local Pairings: No tasting is complete without the flavours of the region. Our premium wines are served alongside a selection of locally sourced cheeses.

Why 2026 is Shaping Up to be Special

Every vintage tells a story of the season’s weather, soil, and timing. Our winemaking team is already seeing incredible intensity in the early-picked fruit this year. By joining a tour during the 2026 harvest, you get a “sneak peek” at the vintage long before it ever hits the shelves. It’s a chance to see the raw ingredients of the bottles you’ll be cellaring in years to come.

Plan Your Visit to Pokolbin

De Iuliis is located in the heart of Pokolbin, making it the perfect centerpiece for your Hunter Valley weekend away. Because harvest is our busiest time of year, our Deluxe Experience tours are kept small to ensure an intimate and high-quality experience.

Tour Details:

• Availability: Daily (Bookings essential)

• Location: 1616 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320

• Perfect for: Small groups, wine enthusiasts, and curious travellers.

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Book Your Harvest Experience

Don’t just drink the wine—experience the vintage. Spots for our Deluxe Experience Winery Tour fill up quickly during the harvest months.

Click Here to Book Your Deluxe Experience Online or call our cellar door team to secure your place in the heart of the 2026 vintage.

The Hunter Valley, renowned for its exquisite wines and breathtaking scenery, isn’t just for adults. It’s also a fantastic destination for families looking to create cherished memories amidst vineyards and picturesque landscapes. From spacious homesteads to charming cottages, the region offers a diverse range of accommodations suitable for all ages. De Iuliis Wines is proud to be part of this family-friendly community, and we’re here to help you discover some of the best places to stay.

When planning your next family adventure to Wine Country, consider these exceptional venues that blend comfort, convenience, and a touch of Hunter Valley charm.

The Winemaker’s House at De Iuliis Wines: Your Home Among the Vines

Imagine waking up surrounded by the beauty of a working winery, with fresh country air. The Winemaker’s House at De Iuliis Wines offers precisely this experience, providing an idyllic retreat for families and groups.

Located just 30 metres from our acclaimed cellar door on Broke Road, this contemporary, split-level residence is designed for comfort and relaxation. It accommodates up to 7 guests across four beautifully styled bedrooms with flexible bedding configurations and 2.5 bathrooms, ensuring ample space for everyone.

Family-Friendly Highlights:

• Spacious Living: Enjoy an open-plan entertaining area with a superb kitchen and dining space, perfect for family meals.
• Outdoor Enjoyment: A secluded, enclosed courtyard with a BBQ is ideal for alfresco dining and secure playtime for children (and pets!).
• Cozy Comforts: In cooler months, gather around the fireplace for a movie night or relax with a glass of De Iuliis wine.
• Pet-Friendly: Your furry family members are welcome, with a dedicated pet enclosure for their safety and comfort.
• Complimentary Wine Tasting: As our guest, you’ll receive a free premium wine tasting at the De Iuliis cellar door, allowing adults to savour our award-winning wines just steps away from your accommodation.
• Amenities: Features include air conditioning, streaming services, and Wi-Fi, providing all the modern conveniences for a memorable stay.

It’s truly a “happy place” where the history and passion of the De Iuliis winemaking family come to life, offering a warm welcome to all.

DISCOVER MORE

Steven Vineyard Cottage: Modern Comfort in a Picturesque Setting

For another fantastic family-friendly option, look no further than Steven Vineyard Cottage, nestled within the glorious acres of the Steven Vineyard. This property is designed for larger groups, comfortably hosting up to 8 guests within a spacious cottage for six and an additional self-contained studio for two.

Family-Friendly Highlights:

• Ample Space: With generous living areas and bedrooms, the cottage provides plenty of room for families to spread out and relax. Publicly available information indicates it includes 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms.
• Modern Amenities: Guests can enjoy luxurious bedding, beautiful bathrooms, and a gourmet kitchen perfect for preparing family meals.
• Indoor & Outdoor Fun: Unwind by the heart-warming gas fireplace or take a leisurely dip in the custom, circular plunge pool while taking in the dreamy vineyard views. A games room offers friendly challenges for all ages.
• Prime Location: Steven Vineyard Cottage boasts an excellent location, just a hop, skip, and a jump away from numerous wineries, restaurants, cellar doors, and the popular Hunter Valley Gardens, ensuring there’s always something to do.

DISCOVER MORE

The Hunter Valley offers an abundance of activities and experiences for families, from exploring the Hunter Valley Gardens to enjoying local produce and, of course, discovering exceptional wines. Choosing the right accommodation is key to a memorable trip. Both The Winemaker’s House at De Iuliis Wines and Steven Vineyard Cottage provide excellent bases for your family to relax, explore, and immerse yourselves in all that this beautiful region has to offer.

We look forward to welcoming your family to the Hunter Valley for an unforgettable getaway!

Planning your escape for the much-anticipated NSW October Long Weekend? Look no further than the heart of Pokolbin. At De Iuliis Wines, we’re throwing open our Cellar Door to ensure your long weekend is filled with exceptional Hunter Valley wine tasting experiences, stunning scenery, and that signature warm De Iuliis welcome.

Whether you’re a local wine lover or heading to the Hunter Valley for a weekend getaway, make our award-winning Cellar Door your first stop!

Essential Visitor Information for the NSW Long Weekend

We know that planning your itinerary for a busy public holiday weekend is key. That’s why we’re making it easy for you to experience the best of De Iuliis.

De Iuliis Cellar Door Opening Hours: We are open 10am to 5pm every day, including the Monday public holiday.

Location: 1616 Broke Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320.

Bookings are Essential: The October Long Weekend is one of the busiest times in the Hunter Valley. To guarantee your spot and ensure a personalised experience, please book your wine tasting in advance!

Experience the Best of Hunter Valley Wine

Why choose De Iuliis Wines for your Hunter Valley long weekend tasting?

Our family-owned winery is a 5-star-rated producer, known for crafting small-batch, handcrafted wines that truly reflect the unique terroir of the region. This is your opportunity to experience the quality that has earned us numerous awards.

Must-Try Wines This October Long Weekend

Hunter Valley Semillon: Crisp, bright, and the perfect wine to enjoy as the Spring weather heats up. A true Hunter classic!

Award-Winning Shiraz: Experience the elegance and structure of our flagship red wines, a perfect companion for your long weekend celebrations.

Premium Tasting Flights: Dive deeper into our portfolio with a curated flight featuring our limited-release and Cellar Door exclusive wines. Discover the innovation of Mike De Iuliis’ winemaking philosophy.

Maximize Your Pokolbin Getaway

The October Long Weekend in Pokolbin is buzzing! While you’re here, take advantage of everything the region has to offer. Our central location makes us the perfect base for exploring.

Food Pairings: Ask our friendly team about our local cheese selections, the perfect accompaniment to your wine flight.

Local Attractions: We’re just minutes away from other major Hunter Valley attractions, so you can easily fit us into your action-packed schedule.

Don’t let this beautiful long weekend pass you by! Escape the city and settle into the relaxed pace of wine country. We look forward to seeing you at De Iuliis Wines for a memorable NSW October Long Weekend!

Ready to book your experience? Click here to secure your tasting reservation!