A stunning boutique equestrian themed cellar door in the heart of the Hunter Valley
There are cellar door experiences in the Hunter Valley, and then there are cellar door experiences in the Hunter Valley like Dark Horse Vineyard!
This stunning equestrian-inspired cellar door provides a luxurious yet completely relaxed atmosphere, almost like you’re sitting on the couch at home, wine tasting experience. Best of all Dark Horse Vineyard is located right in the heart of the Hunter Valley’s wine tasting area.
Upon arrival owners Olivia and Martin Pukanic ever so graciously welcome us into their beautifully renovated, barn-like cellar door. Olivia talks us through the massive undertaking that was required by herself and Martin to turn this once colorbond shed into the spectacular cellar door that it is today.
The appropriately coloured Black Caviar exterior walls make for a dramatic contrast to the surrounding acres of vineyard and grassy pastures, which we must mention is shared by Olivia and Martin's beloved, Warmblood horses Doni and Doll.
Relocating from Sydney several years ago, Olivia and Martin fell in love with the property on first site, particularly for its five acres of Semillon and two acres of Chardonnay that were planted back in the 60’s.
Even at a quick glance you get the impression that Olivia and Martin are all about quality rather than quantity which is also reflected in their wine philosophy with the low-yielding and high quality grapes being hand-picked and exclusively grown in the Hunter Valley. Producing only 1300 bottles a year you’ll need to either visit the cellar door or go online to get your hands on one of these black beauties.
In addition to the wine Dark Horse Vineyard also doubles as a luxe homewares shopping experience. With a wine in one hand, take a browse through the beautiful range of homewares. From cushions to throws, to kitchenwares, all of which are beautifully framed by those dramatic horse portraits that you can’t help but get a little lost in.
Whether you're a horse lover or not you will absolutely fall in love with the Dark Horse Vineyard. Not just for its style and quality but for that beautiful country hospitality. It's a must visit on your next trip to the Hunter Valley.