Just fifteen minutes from Mudgee, sitting snug in the breathtaking landscape of Apple Tree Flat valley, is Skimstone Wines. The estate stands in an echelon of its own, with estate-grown wines crafted from a uniquely diverse vineyard, nurtured by the mountain-protected Cudgegong River. The varied soil the vines are planted upon – from rocky ridges to rich clay – produce sophisticated French and Italian varietals with depth and character. The beauty of the landscape is funnelled into the elegance of every bottle. From classic varietals like chardonnay, merlot, barbera and sangiovese to bold and innovative blends – such as Tre-Onde (a mix of sangiovese, merlot and shiraz) and Ripples (a sparkling sangiovese rosé) – each wine pays homage to the land where its grapes are grown.

These drops are not only well loved by visitors, but they have also received widespread acclaim. Skimstone’s Barbera 2023 and Sangiovese Rosé 2023 both received gold medals at the 2023 Mudgee Wine Show, while the 2021 Cabernet Merlot similarly impressed at the 2022 New South Wales Wine Awards, also taking home gold and the trophy for Best Red Blend.

The winery boasts a history as rich as the wines themselves. Established in 1988, the vineyard began with an ambitious planting of all its vines. In 2018, the current owners took over the winery, bringing with them more than twenty years of experience – including founding the first company to export Australian wine to China. Since then, the winery has reached new levels – transforming itself into a must-see destination for locals and travellers alike. If you’ve come from afar to delight in all the Mudgee region has to offer, the recently added vineyard accommodation is the perfect place to take a beat. The guesthouses, offering two to three bedrooms, treat visitors to stunning views of the mountainous valley and are just a one-minute walk from the cellar door.

The cellar door is the perfect venue for special events, comfortably hosting more than 100 guests, with the option to extend the space using a marquee. Whether you’re planning a wedding, engagement, or a gathering with family and friends, there are flexible catering options, including self-catering or in-house services. With breathtaking views and a spacious, welcoming atmosphere, it’s an ideal setting for a relaxed and unforgettable occasion.