Tyrrells Wines

Set among the rolling hills of the Hunter Valley, Tyrrells Wines is one of Australia's oldest and most celebrated family-owned wineries, with a history stretching back to 1858. For travellers exploring the Port Stephens region, a detour here offers a taste of classic Aussie wine country — think vine-laced landscapes, cellar-door tastings and a genuine sense of heritage. The estate is particularly known for its Semillon, a variety that ages beautifully, and its bold Shiraz. Beyond the wine, the property’s rustic charm and knowledgeable staff make it a welcoming stop for both connoisseurs and casual sippers.

Highlights & What to See

• Cellar Door Tastings: Sample a flight of Tyrrells’ signature wines in the historic cellar door, where staff share stories of the family’s winemaking legacy.
• Vat 47 Semillon: This iconic wine, first produced in 1963, is a must-try — a crisp, citrusy white that develops honeyed complexity with age.
• Old Vineyard Tour: Join a guided walk through the original 19th-century vines, learning about traditional winemaking techniques and the estate’s sustainable practices.
• Museum Tasting: For a deeper dive, book a museum tasting featuring rare back-vintages and limited-release wines.
• Picnic Grounds: Grab a bottle and a cheese platter to enjoy on the lawns overlooking the vineyards — perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 1–2 hours here, allowing for a leisurely tasting and a stroll around the grounds. If you’re a serious wine enthusiast, add an extra hour for the vineyard tour or museum tasting. Tyrrells makes an ideal half-day trip from Port Stephens, easily combined with other Hunter Valley wineries or a lunch at a nearby restaurant.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Pokolbin – The heart of Hunter Valley wine country, with dozens of cellar doors, restaurants and galleries.
• Cessnock – A lively town with boutique breweries, antique shops and a weekly farmers’ market.
• Port Stephens – Head back to the coast for dolphin cruises, sand dunes and stunning beaches like Fingal Bay.
• Broke – A quieter wine sub-region with family-run wineries and scenic cycling routes.
• Hunter Valley Gardens – Expansive themed gardens and a shopping village, great for a family outing.

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