The Brokenwood Journey

The Brokenwood Journey offers wine enthusiasts a rare opportunity to explore the storied past and innovative present of one of Australia’s most acclaimed wineries. Guests embark on a guided tour that immerses them in Brokenwood’s rich history, dating back to its founding in 1970. Along the way, they’ll indulge in barrel tastings of pre-release premium wines, paired with exquisite canapes, while engaging with the winery’s passionate guides and culinary team. This unique experience not only showcases the artistry and craftsmanship behind Brokenwood’s acclaimed wines but also promises to leave visitors with a newfound appreciation for the region’s vibrant wine culture.

Key Points

• Brokenwood Wines offers a comprehensive winery tour highlighting its storied history, innovative winemaking practices, and the opportunity to taste pre-release premium wines.
• The tour provides an immersive experience, including a guided exploration of the facilities, a premium wine tasting paired with canapes, and an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the barrel hall.
• Visitors can learn about Brokenwood’s pioneering role in shaping the Hunter Valley wine industry, its commitment to quality, and the art and science behind its diverse portfolio of wines.
• The experience features personalized attention, with a maximum group size of 12, and allows guests to interact with the winemakers and culinary team for a deeper appreciation of the winery’s offerings.
• The tour culminates in a visit to the on-site restaurant, The Wood, where guests can savor a delectable pairing of seasonal canapes and Brokenwood’s premium wines in a modern, rustic setting.

Overview of the Experience

The Brokenwood Journey offers visitors a behind-the-scenes tour of Brokenwood Wines in the Hunter Valley region of Australia, providing them with a comprehensive and immersive wine tasting experience.

With an impressive 5.0 overall rating based on 66 reviews, this tour promises to be a highlight of any trip to the area.

Over the course of the tour, guests will learn about the history of Brokenwood, see the wine-making process firsthand, and meet the chef of The Wood Restaurant.

They’ll also have the opportunity to taste pre-release premium wines directly from the barrel, all while enjoying a selection of six canapes expertly paired with six premium wines, three white and three red.

Tour Highlights

On the Brokenwood Journey tour, visitors have the opportunity to learn about the rich history of the winery. They’ll also witness the wine-making process firsthand, from grape to glass. Plus, guests can meet the chef responsible for creating the expertly paired canapes served throughout the tasting.

The tour highlights include:

Experience	Description
History Lesson	Learn about Brokenwood’s storied past and how it has evolved over the years.
Inside Look	Go behind the scenes and observe the winemakers at work, crafting the premium wines.
Chef Meet & Greet	Engage with the talented culinary team and discover the thought process behind the canape pairings.
Barrel Tasting	Savor a preview of Brokenwood’s upcoming releases, sampled directly from the barrel.

Included Features

Amidst the Brokenwood Journey tour, visitors are treated to an array of included features that elevate the wine-tasting experience. Highlights include a guided winery tour that immerses guests in the intricacies of Brokenwood’s winemaking process, complemented by a premium wine tasting showcasing both white and red varietals expertly paired with six canapes.

On top of that, the tour grants access to Brokenwood’s barrel hall, where attendees can savor a preview of the winery’s upcoming releases. The personalized attention of a maximum of 12 travelers ensures an intimate and engaging experience throughout the journey.

These included features combine to provide an exceptional behind-the-scenes exploration of one of Australia’s premier wine destinations.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Guests gathering for the Brokenwood Journey tour will find the meeting point at Brokenwood Wines, located at 401-427 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320, Australia.

Upon arrival, they’re advised to notify the concierge desk to ensure a smooth start to their behind-the-scenes exploration of this premier winery. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, completing the immersive Brokenwood experience.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and guests should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed.

Proper enclosed flat footwear is required, and anyone under 18 years of age isn’t permitted on the tour.

History of Brokenwood

Founded in 1970, Brokenwood Wines has a rich history of pioneering the Hunter Valley’s wine industry.

The winery was established by a group of Sydney-based lawyers who shared a passion for producing high-quality wines, and over the decades, it has evolved into one of the region’s most respected and awarded wine producers.

From its humble beginnings, Brokenwood has consistently pushed the boundaries, experimenting with new grape varieties and winemaking techniques to craft exceptional wines that showcase the unique terroir of the Hunter Valley.

Today, the winery’s commitment to innovation and excellence is reflected in its diverse portfolio, which includes acclaimed Shiraz, Chardonnay, and Semillon wines that have earned it a global reputation.

Wine-Making Process

The tour guides at Brokenwood Wines take visitors through the intricate wine-making process, showcasing the winery’s state-of-the-art facilities and innovative techniques.

From the carefully tended vineyards to the modern crush pad and fermentation tanks, each step is meticulously executed to ensure the highest quality.

Visitors witness the delicate balance of art and science as the winemakers monitor temperatures, pH levels, and fermentation progress.

The tour culminates in the barrel hall, where guests have the opportunity to sample pre-release wines directly from the oak casks.

Throughout the experience, the guides share their passion for winemaking, imparting valuable insights into the craftsmanship and attention to detail that defines the Brokenwood approach.

The Wood Restaurant

As visitors venture from the barrel hall, they’re welcomed into The Wood Restaurant, where the Brokenwood team’s commitment to showcasing the finest local produce comes to life.

Under the expert guidance of the resident chef, guests embark on a culinary journey, savoring delectable canapes that perfectly complement the premium wines tasted earlier.

The menu highlights the region’s bountiful harvest, featuring seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms and artisanal producers.

With its modern, rustic ambiance and attentive service, The Wood Restaurant provides a harmonious dining experience that elevates the Brokenwood winery tour.

Diners depart with not only an appreciation for the winemaking process but also a deeper understanding of the region’s vibrant food culture.

Barrel Hall Tasting

Visitors are led through the grand entryway of the barrel hall, their senses immediately captivated by the rich aroma of aging wine and the rhythmic hum of oak barrels.

The expert guide eagerly shares the secrets of this hallowed space, inviting guests to witness the evolution of Brokenwood’s premium wines as they mature in the barrel.

The tour highlights three key aspects of the barrel hall experience:

1. Sampling the pre-release wine directly from the barrel, allowing guests to taste the wine in its most nascent form.

2. Learning about the intricate barrel-aging process, including the impact of different wood types and toasting levels on the wine’s flavor profile.

3. Appreciating the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into Brokenwood’s winemaking, as evidenced by the pristine, temperature-controlled conditions of the barrel hall.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, you cannot bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a guided wine tasting paired with six canapes, so outside food and beverages are not permitted. All refreshments are provided as part of the tour experience.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Dietary Restrictions?

The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions, as the canapes are offered with a variety of options. Guests should notify the tour operator in advance of any specific dietary needs to ensure an enjoyable experience.

What Is the Refund/Cancellation Policy for This Experience?

The Brokenwood winery tour has a flexible cancellation policy – guests can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. There are no fees for changes or cancellations made within this window.

Can I Purchase Wine or Merchandise at the End of the Tour?

Yes, visitors can purchase wine and merchandise at the end of the Brokenwood Wines tour. The winery’s retail shop is located on-site, allowing guests to browse and purchase their favorite wines and souvenirs after the guided experience.

Is There a Dress Code or Any Special Requirements for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but visitors should wear enclosed flat shoes as the tour includes walking through the winery. Casual, comfortable attire is recommended to fully enjoy the behind-the-scenes experience at Brokenwood Wines.

Recap

The Brokenwood Journey offers an immersive wine experience that showcases the winery’s rich history and innovative practices.

Guests embark on a guided tour, enjoying barrel tastings of premium wines paired with canapes, while engaging with passionate guides and the culinary team.

This unique tour highlights the artistry and craftsmanship behind creating acclaimed wines in Brokenwood’s stunning Hunter Valley setting.