What’s happening in the Valley
Say hello to Riggs and Wiggs
After nearly 40 years at Brokenwood, Chief Winemaker Iain Riggs AM stepped back in 2020 and purchased the renowned Mistress Block vineyard, which was planted in 1968.
Neighbour Peter Wiggs (who also owns vineyards outside of Canberra) stumbled upon 12 abandoned open concrete fermenters on his Côte vineyard, built in the 1890s. This discovery sparked a conversation with Iain about the possibility of restoring them and joining forces to create a new wine brand. And so, the amusingly named Riggs and Wiggs was born.
Launching their first Riggs and Wiggs vintage in 2024, Iain said, “We want to showcase the classic Hunter and Canberra varieties. We’re all about respecting tradition, but with an innovative perspective.”
The pair launched with four wines from the Hunter Valley, comprising two Semillons, Chardonnay, and Shiraz – which was fermented in one of the historic restored open vats. They’ve also made a Chardonnay and Shiraz from Peter’s Lake George Canberra vineyard.
Iain reflected, “I’ve always thought of Brokenwood as my home and family, so I didn’t have any plans to launch my own wine brand. But I love winemaking, it’s what I’ve done for 52 years. So, when the opportunity to access some spectacular vineyards and the old vats presented itself, I went for it.”
The Semillons have already picked up wine show medals, which is no surprise given the calibre and experience of the Riggs and Wiggs team. Currently in some of Sydney, Newcastle, and the Hunter Valley’s finest restaurants, they are available for tasting at the Wine House on McDonalds Road, or you can purchase them online.
Come for the wines, stay for the views
Whilst Novocastrians and local business owners Adam and Di Loong are long-time wine enthusiasts, becoming a winery owner wasn’t part of their plan. Looking for a Hunter Valley lifestyle weekender, they fell in love with the 60-acre Molly Morgan property.
Renovating a dusty run-down shed, they opened a bright new cellar door in December 2024. The deck, which overlooks a spectacular vineyard panorama to the Brokenback Mountains, is the best spot to enjoy your tasting.
It’s a big learning curve for the Loongs, but, as Di said, “We’re up for the challenge.”
It’s also why they have recruited local Matilda’s sporting legend Emily Van Egmond as their Brand Ambassador. According to Di, “Emily epitomises our values. She’s honest and hardworking with resilience and integrity.”
The namesake Molly Morgan was originally transported to Australia as a convict but overcame enormous adversity to become a successful pioneering landowner, farmer, publican, and valued community member.
Di commented, “Molly’s story of strength, courage, and resilience really resonated with us. We’re new to the wine industry, so it’s a big learning curve. But we’re up for the challenge.”
Enlisting locally respected winemaker Dan Binet, they offer a selection of current and back vintage wines.
Start with their Conviction Sparkling as an aperitif, then try their bright, citrusy Semillon with refreshing acidity for those sunny Autumn days. If rosé is more your style, you’ll love the fresh summer fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, and cranberries in the 2024 Molly Morgan Rosé. The 2023 Chardonnay shows ripe stone fruits, vanilla, toasted almonds, with a creamy, buttery finish. The Estate Shiraz has dark fruits, leather, and spice for cooler nights with a slow-cooked roast.
Wine tastings are $15 per person, and you can add a local Binnorie Dairy cheese plate while you sip on the wines and soak up the views.
Honouring the old, embracing the new
Tulloch Wines is synonymous with the Hunter Valley’s wine industry pioneers and rich tapestry of history. Their story began in 1895 when John Younie (J.Y.) Tulloch owned the Branxton General Store and accepted an unusual settlement for a debt – a 43-acre property in nearby Pokolbin. Tulloch took an immediate liking to the property and the five acres of neglected Shiraz vines it contained, undertaking his first foray into viticulture and winemaking.
Like any agricultural endeavour, they’ve faced their share of challenges, but they’ve persevered and succeeded, reaching this remarkable 130-year milestone.
Through four generations, the Tulloch family’s hard work, unwavering commitment to quality, adaptability, and passion has seen the company thrive, with family members recognised at the highest level.
In 2024, Hunter Valley Living Legend and 3rd generation Jay Tulloch was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his contributions and everlasting impact on the wine industry.
Jay’s daughter, 4th generation and current CEO, Christina Tulloch, also received the 2024 Graham Gregory Award, the NSW wine industry’s highest accolade, recognising her outstanding contribution.
Acknowledging success is a collective effort, the Tulloch family were quick to thank their dedicated staff, loyal Wine Club members, the Hunter Valley community, valued growers, their talented winemaking team, and their customers.
Christina commented, “Turning 130 years is such a milestone for any small family-owned Australian business. Every year Tulloch gets to celebrate feels both like a gift and an accomplishment.”
Read the full article in the Autumn Edition of Hunter & Coastal Lifestyle Magazine or subscribe here.
Story Cathy Gadd
