Pokolbin

Postcode: 2320

Pokolbin is the centre of the famous Lower Hunter Valley wine region in New South Wales, Australia. It is a rural locality rather than a town or village. It is located between the towns of Cessnock and Branxton.

There are dozens of wineries, ranging from large multi-nationals to small family run operations. In addition to the long-established names like Drayton's, Lindemans, McWilliams Mount Pleasant, Tulloch, Lake's Folly and Tyrrell's, newer plantings from the likes of Brokenwood, Don Francois, Allandale, Petersons and Bimbadgen only add to the quality of wine coming out of the area. Much of the rolling countryside around Pokolbin is under vine with the traditional varieties Shiraz and Semillion still dominating but extensive plantings of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and the occasional plot of Pinot Noir can be seen.

Experts agree that the Lower Hunter shouldn't be able to grow such great wines because the climate is not what could be called ideal....extremely hot summers and freezing winters with frequent frost present a constant challenge to vineyard managers and winemakers alike. These experts also agree that the saving graces of the region are the mountains which encircle three sides of the valley, the cloud cover, and afternoon easterly sea breezes which during summer help to mitigate the blazing sunshine and keep humidity moderated in the crucible of the valley floor. The differing soil types encountered vary so much ranging from rich red volcanic soil from the long-extinct volcano of Mount View and sandy loam which benefits most white varieties. The much-prized red volcanic soil is fickle to say the least as it occurs mostly on the southern ridges however it can be found in patches on the valley floor that dive under the sandy loam only to re-appear across the road in a neighbour's vineyard! Winemaking in the Lower Hunter Valley can definitely be a battle with nature.

There is a vast array of accommodation in the area due to the wine industry and Pokolbins' proximity to Sydney (about 140 kilometres south). There are country resorts, golfing resorts, motels and guest houses and hostels. There are many excellent quality restaurants where visitors can eat well and try local wines.

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