Hunter Valley, NSW, Australia

Getting there from Sydney: Driving's the best bet, as it's two hours
north. Better still is to book a coach or use a local tour group to get
around.
If you're staying in the valley, local accomodation shouldn't be
difficult with the number of resorts and cottages around Pokolbin.

Where to go: McWilliams' Mount Pleasant is one of the best sites for
good Semillon. Other stand out wineries in the area: Tempus Two,
Brokenwood, De Bortoli, and Peterson Champagne House for something
quite unusual - an array of good sparkling wines. Most don't require
appointments for tastings.

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Gibbston Valley, Central Otago, New Zealand

Getting there from Queenstown: Driving's the best bet, as it's less
than an hour's drive from the township. Tours around the area can also
be arranged easily.

Where to go: Gibbston Valley Wines has very good Pinot Noir and Rosé,
not to mention some very good Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling. Further
down the road, Peregrine Winery isn't to be missed either. No need for
appointments here either.

Salil