The hospitality and property investment firm, Mulpha, has added to its Hunter Valley holdings with the purchase of boutique vineyard, Emma’s Cottage.
Emma’s Cottage is found close to another Mulpha-owned vineyard, Bimbadgen Estate, in the Lovedale region of the Hunter.
Greg Shaw, CEO of Mulpha Australia identified the premium tourism trend as a key motivating factor in the purchase: “Emma’s Cottage Vineyard is a welcome addition to our premium portfolio that will capitalise on that trend as we look to rebound strongly into 2022 and beyond.
“While the past 18 months have been difficult for most tourism operators, one benefit is that it has reawakened people’s interest in enjoying unique regional experiences in their own country.
“Emma’s Cottage Vineyard is a quality boutique property in this premium tourism region that complements our existing Bimbadgen Estate offering nearby,” Shaw said.
The vineyard was established in 1985, and is one of the smallest plantings in the Hunter Valley.
Emma’s Cottage offers production, hospitality and accommodation opportunities to Mulpha, with the estate containing a three-hectare vineyard, alongside a five-bedroom homestead and four self-contained cottages. A fully licensed cellar door and a 40-seat café are also located onsite, and the vineyard is a two-hour drive from Sydney.
The property also borders the Rothbury Cemetery, a historic site that dates back to 1851. The site is maintained by the Cessnock City Council, but Mulpha believe it adds to the character and appeal of Emma’s Cottage.
Mulpha’s General Manager of Hospitality, Belinda Stapleton, said: “This is an exciting opportunity for the rising stars of the Bimbadgen team to create something different in the Hunter whilst allowing the Bimbadgen brand to stay true to its winemaking roots.
“While initially we will continue to run the existing business, we see potential to further develop a bespoke offering which will be created and launched in 2022.”