Some things in life just make sense—like bacon and eggs, motorsport and adrenaline, or hitting snooze on a Monday morning. But if there’s one combo that stands above the rest, it’s wine, cheese, and chocolate. The holy trinity of indulgence. The ultimate excuse to ditch the diet and embrace your love for great food. But why do these three work so damn well together? And more importantly, where in the Hunter Valley can you experience this glorious trifecta at its finest? Let’s get into it.
The Science Behind the Magic
But let’s be honest—science aside, wine, cheese, and chocolate just taste damn good together. It’s the kind of trio that makes you wonder why every meal isn’t built around this combination. Whether you’re celebrating, catching up with mates, or just treating yourself (because you deserve it), this indulgent mix never disappoints.
Alright, let’s not get too nerdy, but there’s actually a reason wine, cheese, and chocolate are a match made in heaven. It all comes down to balance:
- Fat meets tannin: The creamy richness of cheese softens the tannins in red wine, making everything feel smoother. Meanwhile, dark chocolate—rich in cocoa butter—can do the same, mellowing out bold wines.
- Sweet vs. Savory: Chocolate’s sweetness contrasts beautifully with a dry red, while cheese’s salty, umami goodness makes wine taste even better. (Ever had blue cheese with a sticky Semillon? Mind-blowing.)
- Complexity breeds greatness: Good wine, good cheese, and good chocolate all have layers of flavor. When paired right, they don’t just taste great individually—they elevate each other.
Where to Get Your Fix in the Hunter Valley
Now, onto the fun part—where to indulge in this delicious trifecta in the Hunter.
Now, onto the fun part—where to indulge in this delicious trifecta in the Hunter.
1. Glandore Estate – Chocolate & Wine Pairing
If you think wine tasting is good, wait till you add chocolate. Glandore Estate has perfected this art, pairing their rich reds with handcrafted chocolate to bring out hidden flavours. https://glandorewines.com/
3. Tulloch Wines – A Little Bit of Everything
Tulloch Wines doesn’t just do wine—they do experiences. Their Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Tasting is a game-changer, matching their best drops with locally sourced cheese and artisan chocolates. It’s the ultimate all-in-one indulgence session, perfect for those who refuse to choose between sweet and savory. https://www.tullochwines.com/
4. Hunter Valley Chocolate Co. – A Chocoholic’s Dream
For those who take their chocolate seriously, Hunter Valley Chocolate Co. is a must-visit. From smooth truffles to decadent chocolate-dipped treats, they’ve mastered the art of crafting sweets that pair perfectly with wine. Try a rich dark chocolate with a full-bodied Shiraz, or a creamy milk chocolate with a buttery Chardonnay—it’s a game-changer. https://www.hvchocolate.com.au/
5. Hunter Belle Cheese – Artisan Perfection
If you love cheese, then Hunter Belle Cheese is your next stop. Specializing in handcrafted, locally produced cheeses, they offer everything from sharp cheddars to creamy bries. Their blue cheese with a sweet Semillon is a pairing worth writing home about, and their truffle-infused varieties will have you questioning why you don’t eat cheese for every meal. https://www.hunterbelledairy.com/
6. Make It a DIY Experience
Can’t make it to the Hunter Valley just yet? No worries—you can recreate the magic at home. Grab a bold Shiraz, a creamy brie, and some dark chocolate, and see how the flavors interact. Experiment with different pairings—try a crisp Semillon with white chocolate or a nutty cheddar with a robust Cabernet Sauvignon. The beauty of wine, cheese, and chocolate is that there are no strict rules—just pure enjoyment.
Final Sip
At the end of the day, wine, cheese, and chocolate go together because they just do. No need to overthink it—just grab a glass, load up a cheese board, break off some chocolate, and let the magic happen. And if you’re in the Hunter Valley? Well, you’re in the perfect place to do exactly that.
Cheers to the finer things in life. 🍷🧀🍫
See our full guide on cheese, choc & wine venues here
