Celebrating the Hunter Valley's small producers
The Hunter Valley might be famous for its big-name wineries and iconic cellar doors, but there's a whole other side to discover about the region's wine scene.
And this November, Valley Rising is bringing some of its most exciting small-batch producers together for one weekend of tasting, discovery and local talent.
On Saturday, 28 & Sunday, 29 November, Valley Rising returns, bringing 14 of the Hunter Valley's adventurous winemakers and distillers together at Avani Cypress Lakes Resort.
Following a successful debut in 2025, the festival is back to shine a spotlight on the smaller, independent producers helping shape the future of the Hunter Valley's wine and spirits scene.
Think small-batch semillon, shiraz, and locally crafted spirits, made by producers who aren't afraid to experiment, challenge tradition, and put their own spin on the region's signature varieties.
Unlike a traditional cellar door experience, Valley Rising gives visitors the opportunity to discover multiple producers in one place, taste their creations, and meet the people behind the labels.
It's a chance to get to know the winemakers and distillers doing things a little differently, hear their stories, and discover a few new favourites along the way.
This year's festival also moves to a new home at Avani Cypress Lakes Resort, bringing the celebrations to one of Pokolbin's best-known destinations.
With entry just $10, including a glass, it's an easy addition to a weekend exploring the Hunter Valley.
Whether you're a dedicated wine enthusiast or simply curious about what's happening beyond the region's bigger cellar doors, Valley Rising is all about celebrating the next wave of Hunter Valley producers.
On pour
→ Aeon Wines
→ Bani Vino
→ Death of a Classic
→ Duff Wines
→ Far Distilling
→ Glover Wines
→ Grandis Wines
→ Gunpowder Wines
→ Lambs Valley Wines
→ Majama Wines
→ Noman Wines
→ Pokolbin Vintners
→ Sabi Wabi
→ Sabine Wines
→ Thea Wines
→ Wick Boys
→ Woodward’s Wines
→ Ziliotto Wines
Valley Rising
When: Saturday, 28 – Sunday, 29 November 2026
Where: Avani Cypress Lakes Resort, 15 Thompsons Road, Pokolbin
Time: 11.30am – 6.30pm
Cost: $10 entry, including a glass
To find out more and book tickets, visit Valley Rising 2026.
