Tyrrell’s Wines is an absolute icon in the Hunter Valley, a name that’s been shaping the region’s winemaking for over 160 years. Family-owned and still very much hands-on, this winery is all about tradition, quality, and letting the land do the talking. Whether you’re a serious wine enthusiast or just here for a top-tier tasting experience, Tyrrell’s has something special in store.

History

• Established in 1858 by Edward Tyrrell, this is one of Australia’s oldest family-owned wineries.
• The Tyrrell family has remained at the helm for six generations, keeping the focus on handcrafted wines that reflect the Hunter Valley’s unique terroir.
• Home to the legendary Vat 1 Semillon, a wine that’s won more awards than you can count and is widely regarded as one of Australia’s greatest white wines.
• The historic Red Barn and original family home still stand on the estate, a nod to the winery’s deep roots in the region.
• Sustainability and tradition go hand in hand here, with a mix of modern techniques and old-school winemaking still shaping their approach.

Wine Varietals

Tyrrell’s is best known for Hunter Valley classics, with a focus on the region’s most famous varietals:

• Semillon – The hero of the Hunter! Crisp and citrusy when young, transforming into a toasty, honeyed beauty with age. Vat 1 is the benchmark.
• Shiraz – Elegant and medium-bodied, Hunter Valley Shiraz is all about savoury spice, bright red fruit, and fine tannins. Tyrrell’s Vat 9 is a standout.
• Chardonnay – Rich yet balanced, Tyrrell’s Chardonnay blends bright stone fruit with a touch of oak for complexity.
• Pinot Noir – A rarity in the Hunter, but Tyrrell’s produces a delicate and earthy expression from cooler vineyard sites.
• Blends & Special Releases – With a winemaking history this long, expect limited releases, museum wines, and old-vine selections that showcase the estate’s depth.

Tasting Experiences @ Tyrrell’s Wines

Tyrrell’s tastings are as much about the stories as they are about the wines. The team here knows their history, and you’ll get a proper insight into what makes Hunter Valley wines so unique.

• Classic Tasting – A line-up of Tyrrell’s best, including their flagship Semillon and Shiraz. A great intro for first-timers.
• Winemaker’s Selection – If you want to dive deeper, this tasting includes some of the more exclusive and premium-tier wines.
• Sacred Sites Tasting – A must for serious wine lovers, featuring Tyrrell’s rarest and most sought-after single-vineyard wines.
• Behind-the-Scenes Tour & Tasting – Get up close with the winemaking process, wander through the historic winery, and finish with a private tasting of their finest drops.
• Museum Release Tastings – Occasionally, Tyrrell’s pulls out some well-aged beauties from the cellar, giving visitors a taste of how their wines evolve over decades.

No matter which experience you choose, Tyrrell’s delivers a genuine slice of Hunter Valley history with every pour. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to taste the region’s best from a family that’s been perfecting the craft for generations.