Climate

The climate in the Hunter Valley is moderate, similar to a Mediterranean climate. In summer the average daily temperature exceeds 21.1°C and in winter the average minimum temperature is 4.4°C. January is the hottest month and July the coldest. The heaviest rainfalls are in summer, with a secondary peak just before winter with an average annual rainfall of 750mm.

Summer

Summer can be warm in the Hunter Valley. However, the intermittent thunderstorms throughout the season as well as the cool breezes coming from the ocean at night make sure both grapes and visitors alike are cooled. There are plenty of crisp, cool Hunter Valley whites to enjoy and swimming pools to dive into to make summer a great time for a visit.

Summer is harvest time and therefore also an exciting and vibrant time of year. Harvest starts around the end of January and continues on until March.

Autumn

As the summer rolls on and autumn days draw closer, many of the vine leaves turn a warm orange-red hue and start dropping off the vines. Autumn is the time to celebrate nature’s bounty and the year’s harvest. Lovedale Long Lunch is a popular annual event celebrated by seasoned regulars & newcomers to the experience in May.

Winter

Winter in Wine Country is a beautiful time of the year, with clear blue skies and mild temperatures averaging 18°C during the day and cozy fireplaces and winter-warming food at night.

Even in winter, the Hunter Valley is a sight to be seen. The stark contrast of the dormant grapevines and display of winter grass and flowers in the vineyards will delight every photographer.

Spring

Spring is a particularly picturesque time in the area. The vines spring to life with delicate light green foliage and the hills and pastures are green. The gardens of the Hunter Valley are brimming with blooms and the Festival of Flowers is on in the months of August and September.

Temperatures are in the early 20's, and the good weather lends itself to outdoor events such as the Jazz in the Vines and Opera in the Vineyards.