Krinklewood unveils a vibrant multi-faceted new food and drink destination
Photography courtesy of David Griffen
In the heart of Broke Fordwich, among rolling vineyards and sculpted gardens, a new culinary experience has taken root – Cézan Trattoria & Bar, a vibrant addition to the iconic Krinklewood Estate.
The result of a spirited collaboration between Krinklewood and local hospitality group, Fennel & Co., Cézan is an ode to shared meals, seasonal ingredients, and a deep respect for place.
Krinklewood has long held a reputation for its certified organic and biodynamic wines, timeless French-inspired architecture, and unwavering commitment to sustainability. Under the vision of Oscar Martin – entrepreneur, sustainability advocate, and co-founder of Pedestrian Group – the estate is undergoing a striking transformation.
“Cézan really came from a simple need – where could I find a great, casual lunch in Broke? We imagined a cellar door you’d want to visit a few times a week for incredible food and wine, surrounded by nature, without any of the fuss,” Oscar said.
This vision has manifested in a warm and welcoming trattoria nestled between Krinklewood’s courtyard and vineyard. Open Friday through Sunday from brunch until late lunch, Cézan offers a relaxed, open-kitchen experience that pairs slow food and sensibilities with premium local wine.
The menu – developed in close collaboration with Fennel & Co.’s James Borg and French chef Marine Faverais – is anchored in rustic Mediterranean dishes, designed for sharing.
Expect creamy stracciatella with roasted baby tomatoes, delicate white anchovies in lemon and olive oil, and wood-fired flatbreads, all accompanied by Krinklewood’s wines.
“Training with Pierre Gagnaire and working in kitchens like Sketch in London and Tetsuya’s in Sydney taught me to let the ingredients speak for themselves. At Cézan, our menu is guided by the seasons and will rotate regularly – something we believe is key to keeping both locals and visitors coming back.
“It’s all about creating a modern cellar door experience, where each dish tells the story of the vineyard and the season,” Marine said.
Indeed, this storytelling extends from the plate to the glass.
“At Cézan, every dish begins in the garden and ends in the glass. Each pairing is carefully considered – not just for taste – but to evoke a feeling,” Valentine Moresco, Krinklewood Winemaker said.
For Tess and James of Fennel & Co., the partnership with Krinklewood has been years in the making.
“We first met Oscar in 2020 and instantly felt a shared passion for quality produce, thoughtful service, and meaningful experiences. Five years on, what began as a mutual respect has grown into genuine friendship – and now, a collaboration that feels truly natural,” Tess said.
That spirit of connection flows seamlessly into Krinklewood’s future plans. The estate is in the midst of a major expansion guided by a master plan from acclaimed architect Peter Stutchbury.
This includes a boutique 22-room motel, a mineral bathhouse, a performance stage, and eco-accommodation through Dimensions X – a sustainability-focused housing start-up.
Krinklewood’s ambitions don’t stop with food and wine. Oscar envisions the estate as a cultural destination for the Hunter Valley – hosting residencies, exhibitions, performances, and retreats. It’s a bold vision, grounded in a genuine passion for sustainability, storytelling, and thoughtful design.
“Krinklewood is unlike anywhere else. We’re pioneering a new kind of cellar door – one that honours old-world charm while embracing modern technology, architectural design, and warm, relaxed, and personable hospitality,” Oscar said.
With the launch of Cézan, Krinklewood has woven food, wine, and place into a single, seamless experience – one that captures the joy of connection and the beauty of the land.
Whether you’re dropping in for a lazy lunch, raising a glass under the stars, or celebrating a milestone surrounded by vines, Cézan welcomes you to slow down, settle in, and share.
