Hunter Valley: Ivanhoe Wines Premium Tasting & Cheese Plate

Summary

Premium wine tasting at Ivanhoe with local stories and cheese

You’ll settle into Ivanhoe Wines’ cellar door for a relaxed premium wine tasting in Hunter Valley—with locally made cheeses and stories from passionate hosts. Taste exclusive wines not found in stores, learn little etiquette tricks, and enjoy vineyard views that linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely sat down before the first glass arrived—Chardonnay, I think, though I was already distracted by the view over the vines. Our host, Mark, had this easy way of talking about grapes like they were old friends. He slid a cheese plate between us (“Best with the next pour,” he said), and I caught a whiff of something nutty and sharp—maybe aged cheddar? The room felt warm even though it was cloudy outside, and you could hear a magpie somewhere out among the rows.

I tried to swirl my glass like Mark showed us but ended up sloshing some onto my hand—he laughed and said everyone does that their first time. There’s something about sitting there, looking out over eighty acres of Hunter Valley vines, sipping wines you can’t find in bottle shops (I asked; he grinned), that makes you slow down. We tasted a sparkling white next—tiny bubbles, almost lemony—and then reds that made the cheese taste even better. At one point someone asked about etiquette and we got this whole story about how locals toast at weddings. I tried repeating the phrase in my best attempt at an Aussie accent; didn’t quite land it.

The hour went fast. I kept thinking how different it felt from other tastings—no rush, no pressure to buy (though I did anyway; they engrave bottles if you want). Even families with prams rolled through easily; everything’s flat and open. When we left, the light had shifted just enough to make the vineyard look almost silver-green. Still think about that last red sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Premium wine tasting with cheese plate

• Arrive at Ivanhoe Wines cellar door
• Enjoy seated wine tasting experience
• Taste white wines
• Taste bubbly wine
• Taste red wines
• Sample cheese plate with crackers
• Learn wine etiquette tips

Top questions

How long does the Ivanhoe Wines premium wine tasting take?

The experience lasts about one hour.

Is the wine tasting at Ivanhoe Wines wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

Are children or infants allowed at Ivanhoe Wines?

Yes, infants and small children can attend in a pram or stroller.

Do they serve food during the wine tasting?

Yes, a cheese plate with various cheeses and crackers is included.

Are service animals allowed at Ivanhoe Wines?

Yes, service animals are welcome on site.

Can I book a specific time for my wine tasting?

You can request your preferred time when booking; they’ll confirm availability by phone.

Are Ivanhoe Wines available in bottle shops?

No, their wines are boutique and only available directly from the winery.

Is there an option to personalize bottles at Ivanhoe Wines?

Yes, they offer premium engraving for special occasions like birthdays or weddings.

What’s included

Your visit includes all wine tastings—whites, sparkling, reds—and a generous cheese plate with crackers. The experience is fully seated and guided by knowledgeable staff who share tips on wine etiquette. Everything is wheelchair accessible and family-friendly; just let them know your preferred time when booking.