Tamworth region food and wine

Foodies and wine aficionados know that northern NSW makes a delicious destination for a weekend away thanks to its fertile farmland and cool-climate wines. The area abounds with paddock-to-plate dining, the country pubs are legendary and the seasonal produce available from farm gates is some of the best in the country.

Food festivals

With the Liverpool Plains around Gunnedah and Quirindi, and New England High Country vineyards around Uralla, the Tamworth region  is one of Australia’s richest agricultural areas. Local produce is showcased at farmers markets around the district and the 10-day Taste Tamworth Festival in April is a drawcard.

The annual one-day Seasons of New England Expo in March celebrates the region’s producers, including wineries, distilleries and breweries, with stalls and live music. The Nundle Country Picnic, also in March, is another delightfully delicious day out with the option of a two-course catered picnic lunch and boutique stalls.

Eat

Tamworth and the surrounding towns are full of gourmet and specialty stores, such as Odgers and McClelland and Nundle District Craft Inc, where you can purchase unique cooking supplies and homemade cakes, pies and preserves. Take home another taste of the region by catching your own rainbow trout at the Arc-en-Ciel Trout Farm.

You’ll find farm-fresh produce in many local venues. DECO Wine Bar & Restaurant has a modern Australian menu in chic surroundings, SSS BBQ Barn claims to serve up the best steak in Tamworth and Graze, near Quirindi, has its own dry-ageing room for succulent beef and lamb reared on Colley Creek pastures.

Like any self-respecting country town, the historic pubs here are known for big, hearty meals. The Pig and Tinder Box in Tamworth dates back to 1848. On the way to Quirindi, stop off at the 1838-built Currabubula Pub & Cafe. For great beer gardens, visit the 1860-built Peel Inn in Nundle and the 1881-built Top Pub in Uralla.

Drink

Tamworth is part of the acclaimed New England wine region, known for its cool climate drops. Northeast of Tamworth is Uralla, where you can visit cellar doors and vineyard restaurants at Merilba Estate and Eastview Estate. For a fine selection of craft beers, stop by the New England Brewing Company.