Under The Tuscan Sun… in The Hunter Valley

For those who yearn for the romance of the Tuscan sun but can’t quite stretch their bank balance to the long-haul flight – don’t despair! There’s a little slice of Italy right here in the Hunter Valley waiting to welcome you.

Estate Tuscany is an intimate mix of cultures. A touch of Italy in an Australian setting, the property is situated with views second to none in the Hunter Region. There’s a casual and welcoming feel to it, from when you arrive, you’re welcomed by a team of quintessential Australian personalities all ready to provide exceptional service alongside a slick and delicious food and beverage operation. “One of the Estates most unique features would have to be its view and of course the Tuscan feel,” said Kirsty Gregson, General Manager.

“Set on over 300 acres and with uninterrupted views of the Brokenback Ranges and Vineyards, guests often remark about how they truly feel like they could be in Tuscany with the added advantage of Kangaroos basking at the back door.”

Estate Tuscany was built in 1997 with The Mill complex added in 2001 providing the property with a conference and wedding venue, The Mill Restaurant and the Brokenback Bar.

In 2016 Estate Tuscany previously known as “Tuscany Wine Estate” underwent a name change as guests often assumed that the Estate was a winery. The Estate also underwent some refurbishment to rooms and updates to the restaurant and bar.

“The refurbishment provided us with the perfect opportunity to rename the hotel Estate Tuscany – a name more suited to the style of hotel that we are,” said Kirsty.

The Gregson and Edmunds family have owned Estate Tuscany for over 16 years. Bill Gregson was the Managing Director until 2007 when daughter Kirsty took the reins and has revelled in the General Manager’s role ever since.

“We all love what we do and feel like our team at Tuscany is family; we all welcome our guests in this way; nothing is too much trouble,” she said.

But they’re not just family – their also a very talented and highly qualified team – something which Kirsty says she is very proud of.

Heading the Food and Beverage Department is Aaron Rothe with a double degree and MBA; Aaron found his calling for the food and beverage industry and foundations laid from the IHG group while running the Front Desk and House Keeping Department is Cassey Taylar, who has been with Estate Tuscany for two years. Heading up the events department is Kate Mercer – Kate joined the team in 2014 when she moved to the Hunter Valley from Sydney with her family, bringing with her over 15 years in hotel hospitality and a passion for creating amazing events focusing on good food and wine.

Over the years Estate Tuscany has been lucky enough to enjoy a series of brilliant Chefs who have dedicated some of their illustrious careers to the estate; Scott Smith trained by master chef Peter Meier, Emilio Llausas who truly set the standard and was possibly the most naturally talented chefs to work at the estate, to Corey Campbell previously of Vue de Monde, and more recently Adam Gibson.

Adam is originally from Sydney where fine dining was his calling, running hatted restaurant Ducks Crossing on Burton for the two years that the restaurant maintained its hat. His mantra – “Food is not just a resource it is a passion,” is something Adam brings to the table daily at Estate Tuscany. Kirsty says that the ability to provide one venue that caters to every need for event organisers has been key to their success as a business.

“Estate Tuscany offers guests the complete Wedding and Events package. With our superb setting in picturesque Hunter Valley, great choice of venue spaces, quality catering and friendly staff offering everything guests need to create a memorable day,” she said.

“We not only offer accommodation for wedding guests but can provide an on-site ceremony, various reception venues (including outside options under the stars) and also pre and post celebrations with a casual get together the night prior to the wedding and a party after the reception in the on-site bar.”

Of course, you don’t have to hold or attend an event to enjoy the hospitality, food and atmosphere of Estate Tuscany. Guests are treated to this slice of Tuscan heaven in the Hunter Valley each and every day. For more information visit www.estatetuscany.com.au