Tintilla Estate: A Family Legacy of Wine, Olives, and Hospitality

Credit: Destination NSW

A drive along Hermitage Road leads you to one of the Hunter Valley's most cherished hidden gems – Tintilla Estate.

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For over three decades, this picturesque 25-hectare property has embodied the perfect harmony of exceptional wines, artisanal produce, and warm family hospitality. Established in 1994 by former vascular surgeon Robert Lusby, Tintilla Estate draws inspiration from European wine traditions while celebrating the unique terroir of the Hunter Valley. The estate's name itself pays homage to an Old-World term for red wine used in 17th-century Bordeaux, reflecting the Lusby family's commitment to honouring its winemaking heritage.

What sets Tintilla apart is its holistic approach to the vineyard experience. While award-winning wines remain the centrepiece, visitors are invited to engage with the estate's complete agricultural bounty. The property features over 500 olive trees planted even before the first vines, showcasing varieties including Spanish Manzanillo, Sevillano, Verdale, Jumbo Kalamata, and the nutty Tuscan Frantoio.

"Our travels in Europe have shown us that internationally, especially the Tuscans and Burgundians, showed the way with integrating family, wine and food. We have sought to take this international experience and bring it to the Hunter Valley," says Robert Lusby, reflecting on the estate's philosophy.

The tasting experience at Tintilla exemplifies this Mediterranean approach to hospitality. Guests can savour premium wines in large Riedel glasses while enjoying cheese platters garnished with house-made condiments – all with panoramic views of the rolling vineyards. The estate's handcrafted offerings extend beyond wines to include olives and tapenades, vincotto (a spiced grape must elixir), seasonal jams, and their signature chilli tomato relish.

Today, Tintilla is very much a family affair with winemakers Robert and son James Lusby continuing to produce distinctive single-vineyard wines that showcase the region's potential. The Dionysian dancer adorning their labels – a nod to ancient Greek wine traditions – embodies their philosophy that wine is meant to be enjoyed in communion with good food and company.

As the seasons shift across the Hunter Valley, Tintilla's bounty evolves with nature's rhythm. The estate's orchard provides fresh ingredients for their artisanal preserves, while their vineyard yields exceptional varietals including Shiraz, Semillon, Merlot, and Sangiovese.

Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply seeking an authentic taste of Hunter Valley hospitality, Tintilla Estate welcomes visitors daily from 10:30am to 5:30pm. Groups of eight or fewer can simply drop in, although bookings are recommended. For a truly immersive Hunter Valley experience that combines Old World charm with the warm hospitality of a family-run estate, Tintilla remains one of the region's most rewarding destinations, where every glass tells a story of heritage, passion, and exceptional craftsmanship.

Visit Tintilla Estate at 725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin |Phone: 02 6574 7093 | www.tintilla.com.au