A short drive from Sydney, this historical city comes to life through the food, flavour and wine that makes Mudgee magic.
New South Wales has a recorded 636 wineries with more than 60 located in Mudgee. The region is known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, but many other local blends and varieties can be tasted throughout each cellar door.
The Gilbert Family Wines cellar door in Mudgee. © Destination NSW
Di Lusso Estate specialises in Italian varietal wines which can be enjoyed alongside a wood-fired pizza in the garden. The restaurant is always in full swing, attracting many visitors and locals for an affordable and tantalising lunch with charming views by the lake. Robert Fairall is the Director of di Lusso Estate and is adamant that, “you should choose your food first, then the wine to go with it”, as wine can enhance the flavour palette of any dish.
Rob also conducts a very informative and relaxed wine tasting in the cellar where you can learn about wine jargon, harvesting, blends and how best to enjoy them. Although Rob’s estate is picture-perfect, there are many other wineries that should be on any Mudgee to-do list. Burnbrae, Lowe Wines, Moothi Estate and The Cellar by Gilbert are all ranked in the top four wineries in Mudgee on Trip Advisor.
Couple enjoying a wine tasting experience at Gilbert Family Wines, Mudgee. © Destination NSW
There is more to Mudgee
Serving up good ol’ fashion country pub meals with live music and a buzzing atmosphere is Kelly’s Irish Pub in the town centre. The venue itself is two storeys complete with an outdoor area for those summer afternoon beverages. It’s one of the most popular venues in town to enjoy a drink and a dance well into the night. Mudgee Brewing Company is a short walk around the corner from Kelly’s. While strolling through the town centre to your next destination, don’t forget to admire the architecture of the famous Mudgee Clock Tower built in 1952 as well as the beautiful St John the Baptist Anglican Church.
The Mudgee WWII Memorial Clock at the roundabout intersection of Church and Market Streets, Mudgee. © Destination NSW
In a similar fashion to Kelly’s, Mudgee Brewing Company provides diners with entertainment, a selection of craft beers and exceptional food. If you can picture wooden beams across a large open ceiling and the chatter of a crowd, you’ve got the right idea.
Mudgee is a scenic town to visit apart from all the glitz and glamour of great wine and food. Mudgee often attracts visitors from Sydney over the weekend as it’s well known for its relaxing pace and comforting hospitality.
The Mudgee WWII Memorial Clock at the roundabout intersection of Church and Market Streets, Mudgee. © Destination NSW.
A discontinued railway track runs right through the centre of town and is often the place where you will see locals either horse-riding, bike riding or going for an afternoon walk. If you begin at the historic Mudgee Railway Station, you can enjoy a coffee first while looking at the Arts and Crafts Gallery which operates from within the historic building. Depending on the season, be mindful of the hazards in the area as it is discontinued, and vegetation maintenance is done haphazardly throughout the year.
Couple enjoying a visit to Lowe Wines, Mudgee. © Destination NSW
Staying in Mudgee
If you’re after a great location and modern accommodation facilities, the BIG4 Holiday Park in Mudgee is a fantastic facility. It’s a quick trip to the centre of town with the benefits of quiet nights after a long day of exploring. The park itself has BBQ facilities, a big playground with a jumping balloon, a swing set, a basketball hoop with half-court and even a pool and spa.
Alternatively, if you’re after something within walking distance of everything in the centre of town, The Woolpack Hotel offers affordable and stylish accommodation above the pub. As it is above the hotel and so central, the weekends can get fairly loud so be mindful of this when booking.
For more inspiration on great food and wine holidays in Aus, check out the Margaret River in WA.
