The Hunter Valley’s Pokolbin serves up some of Australia’s finest lunch experiences, perfectly paired with local wines. The best tours combine vineyard visits with relaxed, high-quality meals featuring regional specialties. I’m particularly fond of the guided experiences that include door-to-door service and local expertise – they eliminate any worries about driving after wine tasting.
My favorite tours pack in great value, offering both spirits and cheese tastings alongside traditional wine samplings. The small-group formats ensure personal attention, and the included gourmet lunches showcase fresh, local ingredients with stunning vineyard backdrops.
Let’s explore the top lunch tours that bring Pokolbin’s flavors directly to your table.
Good To Know
- The Hunter Valley tour offers a relaxed lunch with local wine and vineyard views, providing an excellent dining experience in Pokolbin.
- The Spirits and Cheese tour includes a one-course lunch with a choice of wine or beer, paired with local cheeses and other regional specialties.
- The tours offer a small-group setting with an English-speaking guide, ensuring a personalized and knowledgeable experience.
- Attendees can purchase souvenirs from the tours, allowing them to take a piece of the Pokolbin experience home.
- Advance reservations are recommended due to the popularity of these lunch and tasting experiences in the Pokolbin region.
From Pokolbin: Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Tour With Lunch
This immersive 7-hour tour offers visitors a chance to explore the renowned Hunter Valley wine region from Pokolbin. Priced from $144.68 per person, the tour includes pickup and drop-off, a local driver and guide, and comfortable modern vehicles.
Guests can look forward to guided sit-down wine tastings at 3-4 boutique wineries, where they’ll sample between 20 to 35+ wines.
The highlight of the day is a relaxed lunch with a glass of local wine, enjoyed while taking in the picturesque vineyard views. Visitors can also indulge in local cheeses, handmade chocolates, and even sample regional vodka and gins.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 66 reviews, this tour is praised for its excellent service, knowledgeable guides, and well-planned winery visits.
However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for children under 18, and certain restrictions apply.
Read our full review: From Pokolbin: Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Tour With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Hunter Valley: Wine, Spirits, and Cheese Tour With Lunch
Departing from the Hunter Valley, this six-hour wine, spirits, and cheese tour immerses visitors in the region’s acclaimed local producers.
Priced from $160.11 per person, the tour visits three wineries, offering exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences and tastings of red and white wines. Guests can also sample organic vodka, schnapps, gin, and liqueurs served in test tubes.
Complementing the drinks is a one-course lunch with a glass of wine or beer, as well as a chocolate, cheese, and wine pairing. The small-group tour with an English-speaking guide includes pickup from select locations and souvenirs.
While not suitable for children under 18, the experience has earned a 4.7/5 rating from 81 reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable guide and value for money.
Attendees should bring their passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate attire, as no outside alcoholic drinks are allowed on the vehicle.
Read our full review: Hunter Valley: Wine, Spirits, and Cheese Tour With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Time Does the Lunch Service Typically Start and End?
Lunch service typically starts around 12 pm and ends around 3 pm at most restaurants in the area. The exact hours can vary, so it’s best to check with individual establishments for their specific lunch service times.
Can Dietary Requirements Be Accommodated on the Tours?
Many Pokolbin restaurants accommodate dietary requirements with advance notice. Guests can typically enjoy lunch services from mid-day to late afternoon. It’s best to inquire about specific offerings and timing when booking to ensure the experience meets individual needs.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Lunch Experiences?
The cancellation policy usually allows for a full refund if the booking is cancelled within 72 hours of the scheduled lunch experience. However, cancellations made after this time may incur a partial or full fee.
Are Children Welcome on the Wine Tasting and Lunch Tours?
Children are generally welcome on the wine tasting and lunch tours, though policies may vary. It’s best to check with the specific tour operator to confirm their age requirements and any special accommodations they offer for families.
Do the Tours Include Transportation to and From Pokolbin?
Many Pokolbin lunch tours don’t include transportation, but some providers do offer pickup and drop-off services. Customers should check with individual companies to see if transportation is available and what the costs might be.
The Sum Up
The Hunter Valley offers an array of excellent lunch experiences. From guided wine tasting tours with a gourmet lunch to indulgent cheese and spirits pairings, there’s something to suit every palate. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply seeking a delightful midday meal, Pokolbin’s renowned food and wine scene provides a memorable dining experience in a picturesque setting.