A Hunter Valley favourite to make its return

The Hunter Valley will soon welcome the return of an old favourite after Tower Estate lodge and winery in Pokolbin has been reimagined with a $6m renovation, expected to be completed by June 2022.

Two family-owned businesses that share a passion for the wine region, Spicers Retreats and Tower Estate, owned by Michael and Karen Hope of nearby Hope Estate, have announced their plans for Spicers Tower Lodge in the heart of Hunter Valley wine country.

 

“Hope Estate shares much with Spicers Retreats,” said Michael Hope (above), the owner of Hope Estate Wines. “We’ve both worked to do something wonderful with our piece of heaven in the Hunter, and draw in more people seeking somewhere to enjoy life to the fullest.

 

“We each bring something unique to the partnership. Spicers have perfected their brand of relaxed luxury, and we’re the custodians of Tower Estate. This area is my family’s lifeblood.”

 

The Hope Estate winery, brewery and distillery in Pokolbin is set in spectacular grounds, and home to Australia’s largest winery concert amphitheatre.

 

Spicers Tower Lodge will be the third Spicers Retreat in the area, joining Spicers Vineyards Estate and Spicers Guesthouse. Each retreat compliments the region and offers a very different experience.

 

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to be working with the Hope family to restore Tower Estate,” said David Assef, Spicers Retreats managing director. “It’s a great opportunity for all of us to bring back an iconic lodge drawing on its history and creating something special together.

“We have ambitious plans for the Lodge and function space. The buildings will have that sense of place and a strong connection to the landscape, with plentiful natural materials and colours. 

"Spicers Tower Lodge will be a new way to experience the flavour and landscapes of the beautiful Hunter Valley tapping into the world-class wines of the region and working alongside Australia’s best chefs and restaurateurs in the region.” 

Founded by Jude Turner in 2002, Spicers Retreats has grown its portfolio to nine luxury retreats and eight fine-dining restaurants across Queensland and New South Wales. It also operates the iconic Scenic Rim Trail, Queensland’s only Great Walk of Australia.