Oakvale Winery & Distillery

Nestled in the rolling green hills of the Hunter Valley, Oakvale Winery & Distillery offers a quintessential Australian wine-country experience with a twist. This family-run estate is one of the region’s oldest vineyards, yet it also produces small-batch gin and vodka, making it a standout stop for travellers who appreciate both fine wine and craft spirits. The cellar door is housed in a charming sandstone building, and the surrounding gardens are perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

Highlights & What to See

• Cellar Door Tastings – Sample a range of estate-grown wines, from crisp Semillon to rich Shiraz, plus their signature gins infused with native botanicals.
• Distillery Tours – Peek behind the scenes at the copper-pot stills and learn how they craft their award-winning spirits.
• Oakvale’s Heritage – The original homestead and century-old vines give a glimpse into the Hunter’s winemaking history.
• Lawn & Picnic Area – Grab a bottle or a gin and tonic and settle in on the grass with views over the vineyard.
• Local Produce Pairings – The cellar door often offers cheese platters and seasonal bites that complement the drinks.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend about 1–1.5 hours here for a relaxed tasting and a wander around the grounds. If you’re doing a distillery tour or planning to picnic, allow up to 2 hours. It’s an ideal midday stop before moving on to lunch at another winery or heading back to Port Stephens.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Stephens – Just a 30-minute drive away, with stunning beaches, dolphin cruises, and sand dunes at Stockton Bight.
• Nelson Bay – The hub of Port Stephens, offering waterfront dining and whale-watching tours (May–November).
• Anna Bay – Famous for its massive sand dunes where you can go sandboarding or take a 4WD tour.
• Hunter Valley Wine Country – Extend your trip with visits to other renowned wineries like Tyrrell’s or Brokenwood, just 15 minutes south.

Please check official sources for current details.