Rich pickings in the Hunter Valley

Media Release

It’s harvest time in the Hunter Valley and Australia’s most historic winemaking region is predicting it will be a standout 2013 vintage.

“The warm, dry weather this summer has produced an excellent crop of grapes that have ripened faster than usual,” said Andrew Margan, Hunter Valley Wine Industry Association President. “Vintage started around January 12, which was two weeks earlier than normal. Early picked Chardonnay, Verdelho and Semillon is being harvested and the initial signs are very promising. Great flavour balanced with nice acidity is already evident in everything picked. Yields will vary depending on the soils where the vines are grown, but generally the crop looks up around 10 per cent on average.”

Harvest time in the Hunter Valley

It’s an exhilarating time to be visiting wine country with a flurry of grape picking, crushing and harvesting throughout the region adding to the wine-tasting experience. However 2013 is set to be an excellent year all-round with the Hunter Valley Wine Industry Association collaborating with the finest Hunter Valley food and wine producers for several events.

The crème de la crème of the Hunter Valley winemaking industry come together to celebrate the achievements and excellence of their peers at the prestigious Hunter Valley Legends & Wine Industry Awards on Thursday May 23. The awards acknowledge and congratulate those who have contributed to the growth of the region, and are announced at a gala black-tie dinner.

The next event on the calendar is Hunter Valley Wine & Food Month, which showcases the region’s finest wine and gourmet food throughout June 2013. Supported by Destination NSW, the month-long festival is the perfect opportunity for visitors to meet Hunter Valley winemakers, chefs and producers with a variety of events, including wine flights by the fire, food and wine matching experiences, winemakers’ dinners and much more.

The Clear Image Hunter Valley Wine Show 2013 Celebrations Luncheon on Friday August 16 is another date to add to the diary. Recognised in the wine industry as one of the leading regional wine shows, this event celebrates the premium winemaking standard of Hunter Valley wine producers with medals and trophies announced at the Celebrations Luncheon.

And on Sunday November 3, Hunter Valley Uncorked Balmoral will celebrate its eighth year of showcasing the region’s best wines and produce to Sydneysiders. With entertainment and free entry, this beachside event is a real family favourite.

Consumers can visit the website – www.huntervalleyuncorked.com.au – for more information and media/trade who require more details, please contact Kylie White at White Ink kyliewhite@whiteink.com.au

PH (02) 9439 1633 or (0401) 408 080

Photo courtesy of Chris Elfes