Breweries & Distilleries

Passion is a serious business in The Hunter Valley. That’s why its breweries and distilleries are dedicated to creating the best beers, ciders and spirits in Australia. Taste award-winning craft beers, refreshing cider or small-batch whiskey, then take a tour behind the scenes to meet the makers and see where the magic happens.

Beer

The Hunter Beer Co is the Hunter Valley’s first microbrewery. Settle into the intimate tasting area and sample award-winning craft beers, refreshing golden ales and dark German lagers. You can also enjoy a guided tour of the brewery. At Hope Estate, there are 12 beers and ciders to try, all made on site.

Continue your brewery adventures at the IronBark Hill Brewhouse, Matilda Bay Brewery (formerly the Bluetongue Brewery) and Sydney Brewery Hunter Valley. Not sure where to start? Join the half-day Hunter Valley Ale Trail tour, which will collect you from your accommodation and take you on a tour of the region’s finest.

Cider

For something to cleanse the palate, try the crisp Classic Apple Draught at Pokolbin Cider House. Sample a range of varieties, from the Pear and Passionfruit or Raspberry and Cranberry to the vintage range for the traditional cider drinker. Many of the other breweries also produce delicious apple and pear ciders.

Spirits

Hunter Distillery is a certified organic distillery that produces a top range of spirits, including vodka, liqueur and schnapps, including award-winning Valli Vodkas. Try the Black Label Chocolate vodka. A daily cellar door experience will introduce you to the full product range.

At Millbrook Estate, you’ll discover one of the few distilleries left in Australia producing brandy. Aged in stainless steel and copper stills, many of their customer believe Millbrook brandy is equal to the best cognacs of Europe. The distillery also produces a range of flavoured liqueurs that can be tasted.