By Ian Neubauer
Murray’s Craft Brewing Co has inked a deal to acquire the Port Stephens Winery and plans to install a microbrewery on the site.
Murray’s proprietor, Murray Howe, said the acquisition and development proposal was a strategic initiative to expand the company’s portfolio and enhance visitor experience at the winery.
“Port Stephens provides a highly attractive tourism and retail opportunity. It offers our business a platform to expand our operations and capitalise on Australia’s growing craft beer and beer tourism markets,” he said.
“Port Stephens continues to grow in importance as a destination for day trippers and international tourists alike. We are focused on developing Port Stephens Winery into a more diverse facility, incorporating a great beer-wine-and-food experience for tourists. The improvements will also be a drawcard for the local community.”
Port Stevens Winery general manager, Tony Griffiths, said the addition of a beer experience would help ‘round out’ the venue’s product offering.
“We’ve recently opened a beer bar – with Murray’s multi-award winning craft beer now on tap. And we have also added a drink-and-dine licence to the existing café. Patrons can choose to enjoy a great meal with craft beer or boutique wine; or simply a freshly poured drink on its own,” he said.
Located at 3443 Nelson Bay Road, Bobs Farm, Port Stephens Winery is a multi-award winning tourism property that has played a significant role in the growth of the region’s tourism industry.
In addition to its own vineyard, the 35 acre property features a boutique wine centre dedicated to showcasing independent Australian wineries.