As the vibrant hues of autumn begin to paint the Hunter Valley, it’s time to embrace that little nip in the air with hearty meals, good company and a glass of something special. Autumn is the perfect season for long lunches, slow-cooked dinners and Easter or Mothers Day celebrations, and whether you’re planning an intimate evening in or a festive gathering, the right wine can elevate any occasion.
Here at Ivanhoe, we’ve handpicked some of our favourite wines to suit the season—from crisp whites to medium-bodied reds, bold Shiraz and something a little special for your celebration table.
Fresh Whites for Good Friday & Light Autumn Fare
For seafood feasts and lighter fare, you can’t go past a refreshing white. Our 2023 Semillon is a classic match for Good Friday traditions—think grilled fish, prawns or fresh oysters. With citrusy brightness and a dry finish, it lifts the flavours of the sea beautifully.
The 2023 The Archer offers a more complex option with its elegant blend of fruit and acidity, ideal alongside creamy pasta dishes or roast chicken with lemon and herbs - the perfect Mothers Day menu! For those who enjoy something richer, the 2023 Chardonnay is a lovely match for dishes like roast pork belly or pumpkin risotto, bringing a touch of warmth and buttery texture to the table this Autumn
Rosé for Lazy Mothers Day Lunches & Sharing Plates
The gentle blush of our 2024 Rosé suits the season in more ways than one. Fresh and vibrant with hints of red berries, this wine is tailor-made for lazy lunches with antipasto platters, roast vegetable tarts or a warm chicken salad on Mothers Day. Its versatility makes it a brilliant crowd-pleaser for Easter Sunday gatherings where the menu might stretch from seafood to ham.
Medium-Bodied Reds for Roasts and Comfort Food
As the evenings grow cooler, medium-bodied reds step into their own. Our 2022 Chambourcin is smooth, savoury and food-friendly—ideal with glazed ham, mushroom-based dishes or even a traditional shepherd’s pie. For a touch of spice, the 2022 Shiraz Grenache brings a soft, warming character to slow-cooked comfort food like lamb shanks or a beef and red wine pie.
And for a truly special Easter dinner? The 2021 Prince of Thieves Cabernet Sauvignon is bold and structured, making it a wonderful companion to roast lamb with rosemary, duck à l’orange or a robust cheese board. It’s a wine that speaks of celebration.
Bold Shiraz for Cosy Nights In
Autumn wouldn’t be complete without a glass of bold, velvety Shiraz to sip fireside. The 2022 Jouster Shiraz and 2022 Swordsman Shiraz offer depth, spice and richness that pair beautifully with barbecued ribs, hearty casseroles or blue cheese. For something truly indulgent, the 2022 Shiraz Pressings or our 2021 Premium Reserve Shiraz deliver power and finesse—perfect for your finest glassware and your favourite cut of beef.
Sparkling & Sweet Finishes
Cooler weather doesn’t mean skipping the bubbles—quite the opposite. Our 2022 ‘The Chalice’ Sparkling Red is rich, festive and just right for a celebratory autumn toast. It works a treat with roast turkey, chargrilled vegetables or even dark chocolate desserts.
And to finish? The Ivanhoe Liqueur Verdelho is a golden delight. Serve it with a gooey cheese plate, sticky date pudding or fruit crumble for an indulgent finale to your autumn feast.
Whether you’re hosting an Easter lunch, planning a cosy dinner or simply raising a glass to the changing seasons, Ivanhoe has a wine to match the moment. Explore the full range and stock up for your autumn entertaining online or visit our cellar door for a beautiful Autumn tasting experience..