Located high on a hill in the heart of the Hunter Valley wine region is Pokolbin winery Bimbadgen. With a name meaning ‘Place of Good View’, it’s no surprise that the cellar door has ample vineyard vistas coupled with visionary architecture designed to complement the stunning natural surrounds. Family owned and operated since 1997, Bimbadgen’s iconic bell tower has now become synonymous with standout examples of Hunter Valley classics such as semillon, chardonnay and shiraz. With a portfolio of highly rated wines, casual and high-end dining experiences – plus the upcoming addition of an on-site distillery – the five-star rated winery has established itself as a certified must-visit Hunter Valley food and wine destination.
After more than 20 years in operation by the Lee family, 2020 saw the Bimbadgen brand go through a rebirth of sorts. In May, Belinda Stapleton was appointed the new General Manager of the business, as a one million dollar investment saw exciting renovations begin – including expansion across its accommodation offering, additional distillery operations and a rejuvenation of the brand as a whole. “Covid closures gave us all time to take stock and re-think about how we wanted to run the business,” says Belinda. “Whilst 2020 was certainly a very challenging year across the wine industry post drought, bushfires and then being hit with the Covid19 pandemic, we have taken it as an opportunity to re-invigorate Bimbadgen, getting creative and producing new ways for connecting with our customers”.
Bimbadgen’s new offerings join the existing Cellar Door Tasting Room, Signature Esca restaurant and relaxed courtyard Pizzeria. Headed by winemaker Richard Done, the Bimbadgen winemaking philosophy begins by treating every individual block as a potential Signature wine, vinified separately with equal care. As one of the Hunter’s many passionate young winemakers, Richard also enjoys experimenting with other varieties from renowned growers around the region, playing with alternate methods, styles and grape varietals. At the Bimbadgen Tasting Room you can expect a full education on the range – from signature to experimental. Book ahead for $10 per person.
The casual, Tuscan-inspired Bimbadgen courtyard pizzeria is the perfect place to take in the spectacular view with a glass of wine. Or, for a special occasion fine-dining experience, make a reservation at the renowned Esca Bimbadgen, showcasing Bimbadgen wines by matching them with simple, elegant food in a jaw-dropping setting. Nick Samaras, Esca Bimbadgen Executive Chef, has created a new menu showcasing his passion for the abundance of gourmet local produce available in the region. Nick suggests pairing the 'Pan-seared lamb cutlets, mint pesto and mint salad' with a glass of the 2018 Bimbadgen Signature Shiraz.
2018 Bimbadgen Signature Shiraz
"Fruit crushed into stainless steel fermenter, neutral yeast. Regular pump overs for colour and tannin extraction. Pressed into French barriques. Maturation in new and old French oak for 16 months. Old vines – from blocks planted in '68 and '70 – show how it's done with powerful, concentrated fruit qualities shining through. Cinnamon, cardamon, acacia, Italian espresso, panforte. Comes together nicely on the palate, but still a little taut". – Jeni Port.
Drink to 2041 | RRP $95 | 95 points
*This article was produced in partnership with the featured winery.
Newly appointed Bimbadgen General Manager Belinda Stapleton with Winemaker Richard Done.
After more than 20 years in operation by the Lee family, 2020 saw the Bimbadgen brand go through a rebirth of sorts. In May, Belinda Stapleton was appointed the new General Manager of the business, as a one million dollar investment saw exciting renovations begin – including expansion across its accommodation offering, additional distillery operations and a rejuvenation of the brand as a whole. “Covid closures gave us all time to take stock and re-think about how we wanted to run the business,” says Belinda. “Whilst 2020 was certainly a very challenging year across the wine industry post drought, bushfires and then being hit with the Covid19 pandemic, we have taken it as an opportunity to re-invigorate Bimbadgen, getting creative and producing new ways for connecting with our customers”.
Bimbadgen’s new offerings join the existing Cellar Door Tasting Room, Signature Esca restaurant and relaxed courtyard Pizzeria. Headed by winemaker Richard Done, the Bimbadgen winemaking philosophy begins by treating every individual block as a potential Signature wine, vinified separately with equal care. As one of the Hunter’s many passionate young winemakers, Richard also enjoys experimenting with other varieties from renowned growers around the region, playing with alternate methods, styles and grape varietals. At the Bimbadgen Tasting Room you can expect a full education on the range – from signature to experimental. Book ahead for $10 per person.
Inside the stunning Esca Bimbadgen restaurant.
The casual, Tuscan-inspired Bimbadgen courtyard pizzeria is the perfect place to take in the spectacular view with a glass of wine. Or, for a special occasion fine-dining experience, make a reservation at the renowned Esca Bimbadgen, showcasing Bimbadgen wines by matching them with simple, elegant food in a jaw-dropping setting. Nick Samaras, Esca Bimbadgen Executive Chef, has created a new menu showcasing his passion for the abundance of gourmet local produce available in the region. Nick suggests pairing the 'Pan-seared lamb cutlets, mint pesto and mint salad' with a glass of the 2018 Bimbadgen Signature Shiraz.
2018 Bimbadgen Signature Shiraz
"Fruit crushed into stainless steel fermenter, neutral yeast. Regular pump overs for colour and tannin extraction. Pressed into French barriques. Maturation in new and old French oak for 16 months. Old vines – from blocks planted in '68 and '70 – show how it's done with powerful, concentrated fruit qualities shining through. Cinnamon, cardamon, acacia, Italian espresso, panforte. Comes together nicely on the palate, but still a little taut". – Jeni Port.
Drink to 2041 | RRP $95 | 95 points
For more on events, bookings and weddings & function hire – plus the full range of Bimbadgen wines – click here.
*This article was produced in partnership with the featured winery.
