A Convict, a Pioneer and a Really Good Shiraz

Credit: Bec Essery Photography

Some wineries have a story worth telling. Molly Morgan Wines in Lovedale has one that stretches back to 18th-century England, winds through convict Australia, and lands in one of the Hunter Valley's most scenic vineyard settings.

The winery takes its name from Molly Morgan, a woman transported to Australia as a convict for theft, who endured the harsh realities of colonial life before becoming a successful farmer and businesswoman in the Hunter Valley. Known as the "Queen of the Hunter," she is celebrated as one of Australia's first female landowners. Her pioneering spirit drives the standard to which the team at Molly Morgan Wines holds itself. This informs every bottle they craft, with heritage and purpose at the heart of everything they do.

The vineyard's foundations were laid by the Roberts family, with Semillon the first variety planted in 1963, followed by Shiraz and Chardonnay through to 1997. Fast forward to 2023, and the property entered an exciting new chapter under the ownership of Diane and Adam Loong, who bring a fresh approach and a focus on producing wines that truly represent the region. Under Chief Winemaker Daniel Binet, the vineyard now produces Semillon, Chardonnay, Rosé, Shiraz and Sparkling wine, with an exciting new Italian varietal currently being developed for planting this year. It’s a range that balances time honoured technique with contemporary winemaking sensibility.

Situated on Talga Road on the southern side of Molly Morgan Ridge, the elevated vineyard benefits from cooling breezes and a prized southern aspect. The 62-acre vineyard (15 acres under vine) is also home to three private one-bedroom boutique villas, ideal for a relaxing couple’s getaway in the heart of wine country. The cellar door, just a short stroll from the villas, is widely regarded as one of the finest vantage points among Hunter Valley wineries. Pair your tasting with a cheese board, linger over the views of Brokenback Ranges, and let the afternoon take care of itself.

Tastings here are unhurried and genuine, the kind of cellar door experience that reminds you why you fell in love with wine country in the first place. The "Mates of Molly Morgan" membership is worth exploring too, offering exclusive wine deals, free wine tastings, local business discounts and invitations to special events throughout the year. You'll find Molly Morgan Wines on Talga Road, Lovedale. Book a tasting or a villa stay at www.mollymorgan.com.