A timeless classic
The historic homestead of this 100-year-old Hunter Valley icon has had a stunning upgrade and, much like the fine wine it produces, is only getting better with age.
Nestled in the foothills of the Hunter Valley’s Brokenback Ranges lies one of Australia’s oldest wineries. Mount Pleasant Wines – known for its artisanal semillon blends and rich table reds – was established in 1921 by the “father of modern winemaking”, Maurice O’Shea. The young O’Shea recognised the potential in the region’s ancient sandy seabed and scorching summer heat and put the wine region on the world map. Now, a century on, it has undergone an elegant revival, led by award-winning architects and interior designers Luchetti Krelle, to kick off its second hundred years.
The newly refurbished Pokolbin cellar door is positioned to take advantage of the vineyard views. Gather around the gleaming zinc-and-blackbutt counter for a themed tasting flight. Each tasting showcases Mount Pleasant’s four historic vineyard styles and the wine produced from each.
Enjoy an exquisite share-plate menu from newly appointed chef Kyle Whitbourne in collaboration with acclaimed chef Justin North. Sample wild boar and fennel salami between sips of the 2019 Maurice O’Shea vintage – a pure shiraz made from the estate’s best grapes. For something lighter, the yellowfin tuna with sesame, kohlrabi and dashi pairs beautifully with the fragrant, delicate Lovedale semillon.
An impressive selection of artworks are also displayed throughout the homestead. The selection was curated by Jaklyn Babington, previously of the National Gallery of Australia, and includes Rosemary Laing’s cinematic photo series and nostalgic oils of Mount Pleasant by Archibald Prize winner (and O’Shea’s nephew) Garry Shead.
Don’t leave before taking in the wine store, which showcases current releases and rare museum bottles. Take home a souvenir from Mount Pleasant’s highly anticipated 2021 Vintage range, including the Old Paddock 1921 Shiraz and Old Hill Pinot Noir, which comes from the oldest pinot noir vineyard in Australia.