Lakes Folly

Lakes Folly is a boutique winery in the Hunter Valley that feels like a well-kept secret. Tucked away on a quiet road, this family-run estate is all about small-batch, handcrafted wines – especially their celebrated semillon and shiraz. The rustic cellar door, shaded by sprawling trees, invites you to linger over a tasting while the resident dogs pad around. It’s the kind of place where the winemaker might pop out for a chat, sharing stories about the vineyard’s history and the art of minimal-intervention winemaking.

Highlights & What to See

• Cellar door tastings – Sample limited-release semillons and shiraz in a relaxed, unhurried setting; the knowledgeable staff explain each wine’s character without pretension.
• Vineyard walks – Stroll through the gnarled old vines that produce some of the region’s most expressive fruit; ask about the estate’s organic practices.
• Picnic spots – Grab a bottle and settle at one of the rustic tables under the gums, with views across the valley – perfect for a lazy afternoon.
• Meet the winemakers – If you’re lucky, owner and winemaker Stephen Lake will be on hand to talk you through his philosophy; it’s a genuine, unscripted experience.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 1–1.5 hours for a relaxed tasting and a wander around the grounds. Lakes Folly is small and intimate, so it’s best combined with one or two other wineries in the area to fill a half-day. Pace yourself – the wines are generous and the conversation tends to flow.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Pokolbin – The heart of Hunter Valley wine country, with dozens of cellar doors, restaurants, and the Hunter Valley Gardens just a short drive away.
• Broke – A quieter sub-region known for its scenic vineyards and the legendary Margan Winery & Restaurant.
• Cessnock – The main service town, with cafés, pubs, and a handy visitor centre for trip planning.
• Hunter Valley Gardens – Expansive themed gardens, a shopping village, and family-friendly attractions – a good break from wine tasting.
• Maitland – A historic river city with a charming high street, museums, and the Maitland Gaol for a dose of local history.

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