I was thinking that it wld be ok to just drop in on the wineries but husband think we shd get a half-day tour or so - feels it's rude just appearing at the cellar. Any opinions welcomed.

Probably be staying in the Cessnock /Polkobin region, shd we do it on our which vineyard wld you recommend ?

Do most of the eateries allow BYO ? Wld there be corkage chg ?

As always thanks.

I have gone to plenty of wineries without being on tour. The people get bored so welcome some company I think! Also have a good old chat.

They seem to charge these days if you don't buy. Used to be free if memory serves me correct. maybe $3

I like the view from the Peterson vineyard but wines taste in inself is a personal choice so won't go there.

Moody, no need to book a tour, just drop in to any that look interesting.
There are zillions of vineyards in the Hunter Valley. Here are a few links for you:
www.winecountry.com.au
www.hunterwines.com.au
www.huntertourism.com
www.hunterweb.com

BYO - lots of restaurants will allow (obviously not those attached to wineries (LOL)). Corkage varies, usually not much. Enjoy your trip

Hi moody...I agree with Bokhara. Don't do a tour. If you have a car you can just drop in to most places. By the way if you do go to the Cessnock area leave some time to have a look at the fairly new gardens near there . They are lovely.

Thanks all for your kind help & wishes. Will be leaving for Syd in less than 24 hrs!
Will try to "write home abt my trip" when I get back!

And don't worry about inconveniencing the wineries. They wouldn't be running tastings if they didn't think they'd augment their marketing strategy, so they're not doing it out of the goodness of their hearts.

Thanks Neil. Really want to try the sparkling reds - is that Tulloch which has that - or any recommendation ?

Ok,ok .. I'm leaving ...

I'm hopeless at remembering wines (probably due to destroying brain cells with same), but someone else here might have some sparkling shiraz suggestions. Whatever, don't miss trying some - if it's not out for tasting, buy a bottle, and if you don't see it at a winery, hit a liquor store.

The VERY best Australian Sparkling Shiraz is Rockfords Black Shiraz, heaven in a bottle, like an angel crying on your tongue ! A wine to celebrate babies or to make babies or just because the sun rose again !! Can you tell I like it !

We will have one day in Hunter Valley just before New Year. Staying at the Hunter Valley Resort. We (4) would like to see about 4 wineries in half a day, but would like to taste so not drive. How do you recommend we do it. Is a taxi an option? Or a half day tour?
Thanks
Michele