Lovedale Long Lunch a big drawcard

Seven wineries will open their doors to gourmets from the region and beyond, showcasing their best food and wine over two days.

The lunch is an unofficial introduction to Hunter Valley Food and Wine Month, which runs through June.

Allandale Winery spokeswoman Fiona Hinton-Rodgers said early indications were that 28,000 people could attend the renowned Lovedale event.

‘‘May is just such a good time weather-wise in the Hunter; it’s just cold enough for something a bit rich and red,’’ she said.

‘‘A lot of the wineries have booked good bands, because our focus has always been the food and the wine but our feedback on the entertainment has been really good as well.’’

Ms Hinton-Rodgers said the Long Lunch had retained its spirit despite some service changes, including a token system for buying alcohol.

‘‘It’s a huge number of people, and we just take that responsibility to look after our customers very seriously,’’ she said.

* Emma’s Cottage Vineyard

* Saltire Hunter Valley

* Sandalyn Wilderness Estate

* Wandin Hunter Valley

* Gartelmann Hunter Estate

* Tatler Wines

* Allandale Winery

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