Exclusive Behind the Scenes Winery Tour with Cheese Pairing

If you’re planning a trip to New South Wales and want to really get under the skin of the Hunter Valley wine scene, this Exclusive Behind the Scenes Winery Tour with Cheese Pairing might just be what you’re looking for. As someone who’s seen a good handful of wine tours, I can say this one offers a nicely personalized experience that balances education, tasting, and scenic charm.

What I really like about this tour is how it combines a guided walk through the vineyard and winery, with exclusive tastings that you wouldn’t get just by visiting a cellar door on your own. Plus, the cheese pairing adds an extra layer of indulgence that makes it feel special. On the flip side, it’s a 2-hour experience, so if you’re after a longer, more comprehensive day, this might feel a bit brief. But if you’re short on time or prefer a more intimate, relaxed visit, it hits the mark. This experience is especially suited for couples, small groups, or anyone eager for a behind-the-scenes look at winemaking.

Key Points

• Personalized behind-the-scenes access to the winery and barrel room
• Includes a sparkling wine upon arrival and a guided vineyard walk
• Exclusive barrel tasting of the latest wines in a private setting
• Paired tasting experience with local cheeses for a gourmet touch
• Wheelchair accessible and suitable for private groups
• Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, educational experience in wine and food

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting at Pooles Rock Cellar Door

Your journey begins at the Pooles Rock Cellar Door, located at 576 De Beyers Rd in Pokolbin. As you arrive, you’re greeted with a glass of estate sparkling wine, which sets a festive, welcoming tone. That initial sip is a good way to settle in and get into the mood of the tour. The setting is inviting, with a reputation for quality and care, and the host is friendly and knowledgeable.

The Vineyard Stroll & Winery Tour

From there, the guide takes you on a leisurely walk past the ‘Post Office Block’ Shiraz vineyard. It’s a picture-perfect moment—rolling vines, historic charm, and a chance to hear about the area’s wine history. We loved the way this walk offers both a scenic backdrop and some context about the region’s winemaking traditions.

Once inside the winery, the real treats start. You’ll visit the wine laboratory—a behind-the-scenes look at how the magic happens—and then move into the barrel room. Here, you get an exclusive barrel tasting of some of the latest releases, which is a highlight for wine enthusiasts. It’s not just a sip; it’s a peek into the future of their wines, with some tasting notes and inspection of the barrels’ contents.

The Winemaking Insights

The host and winemaking team are eager to share their expertise—and this is what sets this experience apart. If you’re curious about how wine is made, or what influences the flavor profile, you’ll find the explanations clear and engaging. Some reviews mentioned that the team is passionate and willing to answer any questions, which always makes a tour more memorable.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Final Tasting & Cheese Pairing

Back at the cellar door, the tour culminates in a premier wine tasting paired with a selection of local cheeses. It’s a luxurious, relaxed moment to sample wines at their best—often the latest vintages—while enjoying thoughtfully curated cheeses. The pairing is carefully designed to complement the wines, making it a delightful sensory experience. Many reviews note that the cheeses felt fresh, local, and paired perfectly, elevating the tasting to a gourmet level.

The Overall Experience & Atmosphere

What we appreciated is the personal touch—this is a private group experience, which means fewer crowds and more tailored attention. The tour is designed to be both fun and informative, and the 2-hour duration makes it a manageable addition to a day’s itinerary. It’s worth noting that the experience is fully wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal.

Practical Details and Considerations

How It Works

• The tour begins at Pooles Rock Cellar Door in Pokolbin.
• It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it ideal for those with limited time.
• It’s a private group experience, so you won’t be part of a large crowd.
• Reserving in advance is necessary, as spots are limited and popular.
• You can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

What To Bring

• Comfortable shoes are recommended because of the vineyard stroll.
• No need to bring anything else—just your curiosity and a love for good wine and cheese.

Who Should Consider This Tour

While this is not a family activity (it’s primarily for those of legal drinking age), it’s excellent for couples, friends, or small private groups who want an intimate, educational, and tasty experience. If you’re looking for a quick but meaningful insight into the winemaking process with some quality tastings, this tour fits well.

Price & Value

Though the actual cost isn’t specified here, the focus is on quality and exclusivity—visiting the barrel room, meeting the winemakers, and enjoying paired tastings. These features make it a good value for anyone wanting an immersive experience without the longer, more commercial tours.

Final Thoughts

This exclusive behind-the-scenes winery tour offers a nicely balanced mix of scenic vineyard walks, intimate tastings, and insightful conversations about winemaking. The inclusion of barrel tastings and cheese pairings elevates it from a standard tour to a memorable sensory experience. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer a quieter, more personal setting and appreciate the finer details of wine production.

If you’re after a relaxed, educational experience with a touch of luxury, this tour will likely satisfy. The private group setup and knowledgeable guides mean you’ll get plenty of personalized attention, and the scenery and tastings ensure you leave with more than just memories—you’ll have tasted the craftsmanship firsthand.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this experience is designed for guests of legal drinking age, so children under 18 are not permitted.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, making it a good option if you want a shorter, focused experience.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is helpful if plans change unexpectedly.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, ensuring more guests can enjoy it comfortably.

Do I need to bring anything?
Just comfortable shoes. All tastings and the guided experience are included, so no need to bring extra.

What age do you have to be to participate?
You must be of legal drinking age—18 years or older.

What’s included in the experience?
A glass of estate sparkling wine, a guided vineyard walk, behind-the-scenes barrel tasting, and a premier wine and cheese tasting.

Where does the tour start?
At the Pooles Rock Cellar Door, located at 576 De Beyers Rd in Pokolbin.

Is this a private group experience?
Yes, bookings are for private groups, which means fewer crowds and a more personalized experience.

Would this be good for a romantic outing?
Absolutely. The setting, exclusive tastings, and scenic vineyard walk make it a charming choice for couples.

If you’re looking for a refined, behind-the-scenes look at Hunter Valley wines coupled with delicious local cheeses, this tour is a solid choice. It offers a mix of education, exclusivity, and indulgence—all in a beautiful setting. Perfect for a short escape or a special day out for wine lovers.

You can check availability for your dates here: