First Timers Guide To A Weekend In Orange
If you need an excuse to escape Sydney for a weekend of rolling vineyards, top-tier dining, and some of the best cool-climate wines in the country, consider this it.
Orange's FOOD Week Festival is back this March, turning the region into a playground for food lovers with long lunches, chef collaborations, and cellar doors pouring their finest drops. As a Brit who's recently moved to Australia and my first time heading to Orange (partially influenced by Ms Darlinghurst review) I was so excited to experience it for myself.
The Schoolhouse Restaurant at The Union Bank
Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, The Schoolhouse Restaurant at The Union Bank is a favourite among locals. The menu was a minefield of temptation, starters causing a minor dilemma: Chicken Liver Pâté with wine jelly and rhubarb, or Mozzarella with tomato, peach, za'atar, and pomegranate molasses. This was only the beginning of a…
Under the guidance of Paula, a fourth-generation farmer, visitors wander through rows of apple and peach trees, sampling sun-ripened fruit straight from the branch.
Welcomed by Terry, an absolute character of a winemaker. Eccentric, passionate, and brimming with stories, he and his wife Julie make an unstoppable duo—she, his greatest cheerleader, and he, a man on a mission to push the boundaries of winemaking. Their claim to fame, Australia's first ice wine, was indeed something special. The 2022 Viognier,…
Revealed Tom Ward's expertise in cool-climate winemaking. Celebrating 30 years in the industry, his craft was evident in the 2023 Eliza Riesling, a vibrant and citrusy wine that left you dreaming of long summer lunches—the kind where the only pressing decision is whether you really need another bottle. The sweeping views of Mount Canobolas were…
Nestled within the stunning Rowlee Vineyard Estate. This was dining done right—long, slow hours spent over shared plates, deep in conversation, sipping wine as the sky turned from dusk to night. With generous hospitality from waiter Bon and dishes gracefully placed in front at what felt like the exact right moment. All designed for lingering,…
Offered an intimate glimpse into the art of winemaking. Steve and Nadja's passion for their craft was evident in their meticulous approach. The cellar door experience led by Steve with Barnacle, his black lab there to oversee operations and customer service responsibilities. Overlooking the vineyard, this was a moment of pure tranquility. Their wines, paired…
Provided a comforting conclusion to the weekend. The atmosphere, reminiscent of a traditional Italian family gathering; warm and inviting. The beef carpaccio, thinly sliced and expertly seasoned, was a standout. The pasta special, black squid ink tagliarini, with cherry ripe tomatoes and fresh mussels was decadently dressed in olive oil, topped with parsley and chilli.…