The Story of Ernest Hill Wines

Nestled on the gateway to the Hunter Valley, Ernest Hill Wines is a boutique family-owned winery with a rich connection to one of Australia's oldest wine regions.

Our story begins long before the Ernest Hill name appeared on a wine label. The vineyard itself was originally planted in the early 1970s by Hunter Valley wine pioneer Harry Tulloch. Recognising the site's unique potential, the vineyard was established on gently sloping ground, creating the perfect conditions for producing premium Hunter Valley fruit.

In 2002, Ernest Hill Wines was born, with a vision to craft small-batch wines that showcase both the character of the vineyard and the distinctive qualities of the Hunter Valley. From the beginning, quality has always taken precedence over quantity, with careful vineyard management, low yields, and a hands-on approach guiding every vintage.

Today, the vineyard spans 16 acres and is home to classic Hunter Valley varieties including Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Gewürztraminer, Shiraz, Tempranillo and Merlot. Much of the fruit is hand-picked, allowing only the best grapes to make their way into the winery.

Under the stewardship of Ross and Jason, Ernest Hill Wines continues to honour the vineyard's heritage while embracing modern winemaking techniques. Their passion for producing approachable, award-winning wines has helped establish Ernest Hill as a favourite destination for visitors seeking an authentic Hunter Valley experience.

While much has changed over the years, our philosophy remains the same: great wine begins in the vineyard. Every bottle reflects the seasons, the land, and the dedication of the people who care for it.

Whether you're discovering Ernest Hill Wines for the first time or have been visiting us for years, we invite you to become part of our story. From our historic vineyard to your glass, we're proud to share a little piece of the Hunter Valley with every bottle we produce.

Here's to our past, our present, and the many vintages still to come.