I have been traveling around Australia for a year now, seeing alot sights and of vineyards (as I write for a paper back at home in the UK) but one that really stood out was in NSW, Hunter Valley - Constable Estate Vineyards. I followed Gillards road right to the end out of curiosity - then turned into this secluded beautiful paradise, it was just amazing - i felt like i had stumbled upon buried treasure.

The history of the gardens had been started more than 26 years ago by two friends, Mr Constable and Mr Hershon, making wine from their own grapes they grew. (Now this is - VERY hard to find these days- everyone i have discovered brings grapes in from other states of Australia - MADNESS!!!! - they should use Hunter fruit only, I am here to taste Hunter, NSW - not Yarra Valley, VIC).

 The gardens on the property reminded me of something from the movie Pride and Prejudiced, the scenic bowling green lawns, formal gardens with collectible artwork scattered in front of the vineyard.

I approached the cellar door to ask permission if i could ride my bike around the path - in which i ended up staying for nearly an hour tasting and chatting like i had known them for years. I definitely recommend the Cabernet Merlot and the Unwooded Chardonnay (and the dessert wine if there is one open!!!) which i had bought - carrying this in my back pack on the bike! I laid on the lawn and ate my packed lunch, I could have stayed there all day but i knew the ride back to my accommodation was going to be long traveling nightmare - the roads are atrocious and not suited for bike riding.

Overall, I found this to be the is the most beautiful garden experience, it is free to look around and not be charged with all that commercial rubbish for tourists and i will recommend this to anyone who wants an honest opinion. Overall? Apart from the Hunter Valleys overpriced restaurants and expensive wines with fancy labels ..poor quality in some cellar doors which i grew tired of - chasing that tourist dollar..... Constable Estate revived my opinion that there is beauty amongst the vines and thank you.