Briar Ridge: Wine and dine in Australia’s oldest wine region

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It may have just turned 50, but forward-thinking Briar Ridge is continuing to impress with its award-winning approach to winemaking.

As the oldest wine region in Australia, the Hunter Valley has been producing wine since the early 19th century. While it’s renowned for its quality grapes with winemaking traditions steeped in old-world heritage, it’s the forward-thinking approach to new-world blends that sets Briar Ridge apart. The winery calls it “classically radical”.

Heart of Hunter Valley

Located on an idyllic mountainside in this stunning part of New South Wales, the foundations of this family-led winemaking estate are firmly embedded in tradition. Owner Jaclyn Davis’ father purchased the property at Mount View 50 years ago; today, she manages the estate and its wine club that offers exclusive access to unique bottles in limited numbers.

Award-winning wines

Overseeing wine production is award-winning winemaker Alex Beckett, who combines traditional and experimental techniques with emerging varieties for tastes that are set to become iconic. Beckett has a passion for pushing new winery technology, which has elevated Briar Ridge to world-leading status and saw him take out ‘Other White (and Blends) of the Year’ at the 2023 Halliday Wine Companion Awards, with a gold medal score of 95 points for the Briar Ridge 2021 Limited Release Albariño.

Beckett was also awarded the Riedel 2022 Hunter Valley Young Achiever of the Year award, recognising the exceptional talent of young winemakers.

Grown at a great height

Regardless of its blends, the techniques have largely remained the same. Providing low-yield, high-quality fruit enhanced by Mount View’s unique micro-climate, cooler temperatures due to an altitude of between 130 and 180 metres, and rich, red limestone-based soil. The steep slopes surrounding the cellar door are home to the prized single vineyards of Dairy Hill, Briar Hill and Red Hill. Here they grow traditional Semillon, Shiraz and Chardonnay grapes to be bottled for the premium Single Vineyard and Stockhausen range. More modern styles found in the popular Varietal range include Fumé Sauvignon Blanc, The Dam Verdelho, Cold Soaked Cabernet Sauvignon and Old Vines Shiraz.

50 years in the making

This year, Briar Ridge is celebrating its Jubilee anniversary. It’s been 50 years since it planted its first vines in November 1972.

From humble beginnings to the forward-thinking, award-winning wines of today, Briar Ridge has much to celebrate. Showcasing classic techniques with truly radical innovation in winemaking to deliver Australian wines that deserve a place on your table.

Visit the estate to enjoy a ‘Wine Gusto’ wine tasting. Then spend a leisurely afternoon at the Osteria, a new eatery with an al fresco terrace. Here you’ll find Italian-inspired dishes and artisan antipasti boards using the best local produce. Come on Sunday and you’ll also be serenaded with live music.

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