When it comes to legendary wineries in the Hunter Valley, Brokenwood Wines is a name that stands tall. Established in 1970, this winery has evolved from a passion project into one of Australia’s most recognised wine brands. Known for its exceptional Semillon and Shiraz, Brokenwood has built a reputation for crafting wines that capture the essence of their region while also expanding into vineyards beyond the Hunter. With a stunning, modern cellar door, premium tasting experiences, and a restaurant that serves up top-notch food, Brokenwood is a must-visit for wine lovers looking to enjoy great wines in a relaxed, stylish setting.

History

Brokenwood’s story begins with a group of Sydney-based friends who, despite having no formal winemaking experience, decided to buy a vineyard in the Hunter Valley as a weekend escape. Little did they know they were about to create one of the most respected wineries in the country. The original vineyard was actually intended for growing Cabernet Sauvignon, but when it became clear that the land was better suited to Shiraz, they pivoted—and that decision paid off big time.

As their wines gained attention, Brokenwood expanded, acquiring vineyards in regions like Beechworth in Victoria and McLaren Vale in South Australia to broaden their portfolio. Today, they produce a diverse range of wines while staying true to their Hunter Valley roots. Despite their growth, the winery has maintained its welcoming, down-to-earth ethos, making sure that everyone who visits feels like part of the Brokenwood family.

Wine Varietals

Brokenwood is most famous for two varietals: Hunter Valley Semillon and Shiraz. Their Semillon is a classic example of what the region does best—light, crisp, and citrus-driven when young, but capable of developing complex honeyed notes with age. If you’ve never tried a properly aged Hunter Semillon, Brokenwood is the place to do it.

Then there’s the Shiraz—elegant, medium-bodied, and bursting with the signature Hunter Valley mix of red fruit, spice, and earthy undertones. But the range doesn’t stop there. Brokenwood also produces outstanding Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon from their other vineyard sites, meaning there’s always something interesting to try. Their Graveyard Vineyard Shiraz is particularly well-regarded, consistently rated as one of Australia’s top single-vineyard wines.

For those who like to explore beyond the classics, Brokenwood has a few surprises up its sleeve. They’ve been known to experiment with small-batch releases, showcasing lesser-known varietals and pushing the boundaries of what Australian wine can be.

Tasting Experiences @ Brokenwood Wines

Brokenwood’s cellar door is one of the most impressive in the Hunter Valley. It’s sleek, modern, and designed for a relaxed yet high-quality tasting experience. Instead of standing at a counter and jostling for attention, visitors can enjoy a seated tasting, where the expert staff guide them through a flight of wines tailored to their preferences.

For those wanting to take things up a notch, Brokenwood offers several premium tasting experiences. Their Single Vineyard Tasting dives deep into their top-tier wines, featuring aged releases and limited-edition bottles that you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re keen to really immerse yourself in the Brokenwood story, the ‘Journey’ experience includes a behind-the-scenes tour of the winery, a tasting of their flagship wines, and a food pairing to match.

Speaking of food, their on-site restaurant, The Wood, is a serious drawcard. With a focus on fresh, local produce and dishes designed to complement their wines, it’s the perfect spot to settle in after a tasting. Whether you’re in for a long lunch or just grabbing a few share plates, it’s an essential part of the Brokenwood experience.