Pokolbin: Picnic & Wine Tasting at Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard

Thinking about a visit to Hunter Valley and wondering if a wine tasting experience with a picnic is worth it? We’ve looked into the Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard’s popular tour, and here’s what you need to know before you book. While we haven’t done this exact experience ourselves, the reviews and details paint a pretty clear picture of what you can expect.

What really catches the eye are the spectacular views of the Hunter Valley and Brokenback Ranges, plus the chance to enjoy a guided wine master class led by friendly, knowledgeable hosts. On the flip side, it’s a tour designed for adults — so if you’re traveling with kids, this might not be the right fit. But if you love good wine, scenic landscapes, and a relaxed pace, this experience could be just what you’re after.

One thing to keep in mind is the duration — at just 1.5 hours, it’s a fairly quick experience, but the number of highlights packed into that time is impressive. It’s especially well-suited for couples or small groups craving a personalized, intimate setting. Just be prepared for the weather, as most seating options are undercover but some spots are outdoors.

Overall, if you’re after a well-organized, enjoyable way to taste some of the region’s best wines while soaking up the views, this tour checks all the boxes. Now, let’s break it all down in detail.

Key Points

• Stunning Location: Situated at the foothills of the Brokenback Mountain Ranges, offering incredible views of Hunter Valley.
• Expert-led tasting: A wine master class with in-house experts introduces you to classic varietals.
• Beautiful scenery: Perfect backdrop for a relaxed picnic among the vines or at scenic outdoor spots.
• Personalized experience: Small groups limited to 8 participants mean more interaction and attention.
• Flexible options: Choice of picnic spot and wine to suit your mood and preferences.
• Value for money: With a guided tasting, picnic hamper, and scenic setting, many reviews say it’s good value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What You Can Expect

When you arrive at Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard’s cellar door, the first thing you’ll notice is the jaw-dropping scenery. The vineyards stretch across gentle hills with the mountains providing a dramatic backdrop. It’s the kind of view that makes you want to settle in with a glass of wine and stay forever.

Your tour begins with a tour of the on-site museum, which offers a glimpse into the vineyard’s history. While some visitors might wish for a more in-depth look at the winemaking process — as one reviewer pointed out, it would be great to see more of the production side — the museum is a charming addition that sets the scene.

Next, you’ll join a wine master class led by an experienced host. The tone is friendly and conversational — not overly formal — which makes it approachable even if you’re new to wine tasting. You’ll learn about the different varietals, what makes them special, and how to taste wine properly. This step adds value because it’s both educational and enjoyable, especially when paired with the tasting of premium wines.

The tasting itself features a selection of classic varietals that the winemakers are proud of. Many guests rave about the quality of the wines and the expertise of the hosts. One reviewer shared, “Allie, who did the tasting, was particularly great,” highlighting the personal touch that small group tours can deliver.

Once your palate is satisfied, you’ll be handed a packed picnic hamper along with a bottle of your preferred wine. The hamper typically includes a variety of tasty bites — cheeses, meats, crackers, and more — designed for sharing and enjoying outdoors. You’re free to find your own spot among the vines, on the lawn, or at one of the undercover verandah tables. The flexibility allows you to tailor your experience, whether you want a sunny picnic or cozy cover during rain.

Many guests mention the views as a standout feature. Watching the sunset over the vineyards or simply soaking in the panoramic scenery makes for a memorable experience. One visitor remarked, “The view is stunning, and the picnic was amazing,” capturing the overall vibe perfectly.

The Group and Duration

The experience is designed for small groups, capped at 8 participants, which fosters a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, a length that’s ideal if you’re fitting it into a busy day or prefer a shorter, impactful outing.

While the tour doesn’t include a full winery tour with production insights, the focus on wine tasting and scenery makes it a great choice for those wanting a low-key, intimate experience. The duration and size mean you won’t feel rushed, and the guided element keeps everything flowing smoothly.

Pricing and Value

While exact prices aren’t listed here, reviews suggest that the experience is good value for money given what’s included — a guided master class, premium wine tasting, a picnic hamper, and stunning views. It’s particularly appealing because everything is included in the ticket price, with no hidden costs. Plus, the reserve now and pay later option adds flexibility, allowing you to book early without commitment.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The meeting point is clearly signposted at the Audrey Wilkinson Cellar Door at 750 De Beyers Road, Pokolbin. The experience is conducted in English, with knowledgeable hosts leading the way. If the weather isn’t cooperative, there are undercover seating options, so rain shouldn’t spoil your day.

Note that this tour isn’t suitable for children under 18, so it’s best for adults looking for a grown-up outing. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated if you let the organizers know when booking, ensuring everyone can enjoy the picnic.

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Authentic Guest Feedback

The reviews confirm the generally high satisfaction level. Guests love the knowledgeable guides — “Marcus was super fun and helpful,” and “Liz made the experience great with her friendly attitude.” The views and picnic are consistently praised: “The view is stunning,” “The picnic was amazing,” and “The food was beautiful.” Guests also appreciate the good variety of wines and the chance to learn more about the region’s wines in a relaxed setting.

Some points for improvement mentioned include wishing for more of a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process, but overall, the reviews are glowing. Notably, many mention the value for money and highlight how the experience feels personalized and intimate, thanks to the small group size.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a wine enthusiast wanting to deepen your appreciation with guided tastings and engaging hosts, this tour hits the mark. Couples looking for a romantic afternoon with stunning views will enjoy it, as will small groups of friends. It’s also ideal for travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic experience with good food and wine but not necessarily a full-on winery tour.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 18, and those hoping for a behind-the-scenes look at wine production might find it somewhat limited in scope.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians or people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, dietary requirements can be met if you inform the organizers at booking time, so you can enjoy the picnic hamper without worries.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for about 1.5 hours, making it perfect for a quick but meaningful flavor of the region.

Can I choose where to enjoy my picnic?
Absolutely. You can sit among the vines, on the lawn, or at undercover tables depending on your preference and the weather.

Is this a family-friendly activity?
No, it’s designed for adults over 18, mainly due to the wine tasting component.

What’s included in the experience?
A guided wine master class, premium wine tasting, a packed picnic hamper, and scenic views.

Are there options for bad weather?
Yes, undercover seating is available if the weather turns less than ideal.

Is the group size small?
Yes, limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a minimum age?
Yes, only guests over 18 are permitted.

Do I need to bring anything?
Just bring your curiosity and a love for good wine and scenery — everything else is provided.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic, and educational wine experience in Pokolbin, Audrey Wilkinson’s picnic and wine tasting tour is a solid choice. It’s perfect for those who appreciate beautiful views, friendly guides, and a well-curated selection of wines. The small-group setting ensures a more intimate outing, making it feel less like a tour and more like sharing a special moment with friends or a partner.

While it’s not a deep dive into winery operations, it offers enough insight and taste to satisfy most casual wine lovers. The included picnic adds a charming touch, letting you enjoy your wines surrounded by nature. Just keep an eye on the weather, and don’t forget to book ahead to secure your spot.

To sum it up, this experience provides a balanced blend of scenic beauty, quality wine, and relaxed enjoyment — ideal for travelers looking to sample the best of Hunter Valley in a laid-back, friendly setting. If that sounds like your kind of day, it’s worth considering.

Remember: The best part of experiences like this is the chance to unwind, learn a little, and take in some incredible scenery. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, Audrey Wilkinson’s tour offers a memorable taste of Hunter Valley’s charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: