God bless the Queen

It's been a few drinks since my last visit to NSW's major wine region of the Hunter Valley - and since my last holiday, to be honest - so I'm quite stoked about a forthcoming road trip up north a couple of hours, which serendipitously coincides with a food festival.

Today marks the beginning of the fourth annual Hunter Valley Wine and Food Month, with a series of themed events and masterclasses running through the month of June till the 27th.

There's so much on, it's mind-boggling so I recommend checking out the website for event scheduling. There are gnocchi and cheese making classes, olive appreciation, food and wine matching experiences, a weekend long gastronomic festival, and intimate dinners with leading winemakers and chefs. Not to forget a good drop or two to guzzle.

I'm heading up for the June long weekend (bless Lizzie), which will feature Flavourfest at the Hunter Valley Gardens. I love a good festival, especially outdoors, and the more food and wine, the better. I'm hanging out for Tobie Puttock and Pete Evans, but the three day event will also feature fine food, exquisite wine, merchandise, cooking demonstrations, celebrity guest hosts and music. Fingers crossed for clear skies - or wellies on sale.

Outside the festival, you'll probably find me at the Smelly Cheese Shop, exploring little wineries, checking out some local eateries or in front of some fireplace with a gigantic glass of shiraz. Now, where are my winter socks and festival/eating pants?