By Annette Shailer
Iconic Hunter Valley winery Hungerford Hill celebrated its 40th anniversary by hosting a special lunch at its award-winning Muse Restaurant.
More than 100 wine enthusiasts turned out to enjoy fine cuisine and a selection of Hungerford Hill’s premium wines, including a 1970 Shiraz from Hungerford Hill’s very first vintage and, the much anticipated wine of the day, a 1986 ‘Imperial’ Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon.
Guests had the pleasure of mingling with past and present winemakers, Andrew Thomas, Ralph Fowler, Philip John, Ian Scarborough and current winemaker Michael Hatcher, who were all in attendance to celebrate this special occasion.
Hungerford Hill was acquired by the Kirby family in 2002 and under the leadership of James Kirby renewed its focus on regional wines from NSW, selecting the best varieties from the best regions.
In addition to expanding their estate vineyards in the Hunter Valley, Kirby also saw the potential of the emerging cool climate wine regions of Tumbarumba and Hilltops in southern NSW.
“In recent times, many great, traditional Australian brands have fallen from prominence. Resurrecting Hungerford Hill to its former greatness and beyond is our small contribution in maintaining the rich historical fabric of the Australian wine industry,” said Hungerford Hill CEO, James Kirby.
“Over the last eight years the team has worked tirelessly to put the pride back into Hungerford Hill. We have a world class cellar door facility and most importantly a range of wines that are gaining international acclaim.”
Established in 1967, and producing its first vintage in 1970, Hungerford Hill has been a Hunter Valley icon for several generations of Australian wine drinkers.