The Hunter Valley is a year-round destination but has distinct seasons. The wine harvest runs from late January through March — a busy and exciting time, with picking activity in the vineyards and many cellar doors running harvest events. This is the best time to understand what actually goes into the wine.
Summer (December to February) is hot — temperatures regularly reach 35°C or more — which can make heavy wine tasting uncomfortable. Spring (September to November) and autumn (April to May) are the most pleasant times for outdoor activities and leisurely cellar-door visits. Winter brings crisp days and cold nights; the valley is quieter and many wineries offer fireside tastings that have their own appeal.
The valley is heavily booked on weekends throughout the year and during school holidays. A midweek visit gives a more relaxed experience at cellar doors.