If you are planning a spring weekend escape from Newcastle, the D'Vine Food and Wine Festival is returning to Pokolbin from Friday 11 September to Sunday 13 September 2026. Located along the Around Hermitage Wine and Food Trail on Hermitage Road, the event takes place less than an hour's drive from Newcastle. This year's official theme, 'Meet your Makers', focuses on connecting visitors directly with local grape growers, winemakers, brewers, and cheese producers across the region.
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The three-day weekend begins on Friday 11 September with a casual start and an evening Winemaker Showcase. Saturday 12 September serves as the main festival day, packed with gourmet street food, paired tastings, and live music scattered across various cellar doors. Some featured experiences include vertical tastings at Tintilla Estate, wine-paired dining at Restaurant Botanica, and dumpling pairings at Latitude 32 Wines. Music lovers can catch sessions such as 'Wine & Unwind' at McCaffrey's Estate Wines or the 'Pink Prosecco Garden Party' hosted by Hunter Wine Lab. There are also family-oriented options, including the Italian Festival at Nicita Estate featuring pasta-making and gelato, as well as a Kids Corner at Mercer Wines. If you plan to visit Wombat Crossing Vineyard, keep in mind that the venue is strictly dog-free to safeguard local wombat rescue efforts.
Getting around the trail during the peak days is straightforward thanks to a dedicated hop-on hop-off shuttle bus service. A A$35 weekend shuttle pass covers transport for Friday night and Saturday, running every 15 minutes between participating Hermitage Road venues. The full loop takes about an hour, so scheduling 30 to 60 minutes between stops helps keep your itinerary relaxed. The organisers also run a free shopping concierge service, allowing you to buy bottles along the trail and have them collected and delivered to your local accommodation. Sunday 13 September is set aside for a self-drive, walking, or cycling pace along the 35km Hermitage Road cycleway, ending with events like high tea at Elliott's @ Oakvale. Remember to wear smart casual attire with closed-toe shoes, as heels and sandals are not permitted on the winery grounds.
Published Date
21 July 2026
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