Broke Fordwich, A Hidden Gem in the Hunter Valley

Introduction

Tucked away in the western part of the Hunter Valley lies the Broke Fordwich sub-region, an area often described as one of the hidden gems of Australian wine country. While it may not carry the same renown as Pokolbin, Broke Fordwich is a sub-region of unique character and distinction, known for its stunning landscapes, boutique wineries, and a growing reputation for producing exceptional wines.

This article in our series will take a closer look at Broke Fordwich, exploring its history, the climatic conditions that influence its vineyards, the diverse soils that contribute to its unique terroir, and the grape varietals that thrive in this serene and picturesque part of the Hunter Valley. We’ll also delve into the stories of the people who have played a pivotal role in shaping Broke Fordwich’s winemaking identity, as well as some fascinating facts that make this sub-region truly special.

Each September, the village of Broke hosts the Broke Village Fair, a popular event that features a vintage car display, local produce, and, of course, wine tastings. It’s a great opportunity to experience the local community and sample some of the sub-region’s best wines.

A History of Quiet Persistence

The history of Broke Fordwich is one of quiet persistence and gradual evolution. Unlike Pokolbin, which saw rapid development in the early days of Australian viticulture, Broke Fordwich’s rise as a wine-producing area has been more understated, yet no less significant.

The area was first settled in the early 19th century, with agriculture being the primary industry. The fertile soils and favorable climate eventually led to the establishment of vineyards, though these were initially small and family-run operations. For much of its history, Broke Fordwich remained a relatively obscure part of the Hunter Valley, known more for its farming than its winemaking.

However, the latter half of the 20th century saw a resurgence in viticulture, driven by a renewed interest in the potential of the region’s unique terroir. The official recognition of Broke Fordwich as a distinct sub-region within the Hunter Valley in 1997 marked a turning point, bringing greater attention to the area’s wines and solidifying its place within the broader Australian wine landscape.

Broke Fordwich is known for its picturesque wine trails, which offer visitors a chance to explore the area’s boutique wineries at a leisurely pace. Many of the wineries are family-owned, offering a warm and personal experience.

Today, Broke Fordwich is home to a mix of long-established family wineries and newer, innovative producers. The sub-region’s relative isolation has allowed it to maintain a sense of tradition and authenticity, with many of its vineyards still owned and operated by the families who first planted them.

Climate: A Cooler, Calmer Valley

Broke Fordwich enjoys a slightly cooler and more temperate climate compared to other parts of the Hunter Valley, largely due to its location and the influence of the surrounding geographical features. This climate is one of the key factors that contribute to the distinctiveness of the wines produced here.

The sub-region is sheltered by the Brokenback Range to the east and the Wollemi National Park to the west, creating a natural amphitheater that moderates temperatures and protects the vineyards from harsh weather. This sheltered position means that Broke Fordwich experiences less humidity and more stable conditions during the growing season, reducing the risk of disease and allowing for a slower, more even ripening of the grapes.

The cooler temperatures, particularly at night, help to preserve the acidity in the grapes, resulting in wines that are fresh and balanced, with a distinct elegance. This is particularly evident in the white varietals, such as Semillon and Verdelho, which thrive in these conditions.

Rainfall in Broke Fordwich is relatively low compared to other parts of the Hunter Valley, particularly during the critical ripening period. This reduced rainfall, combined with the well-drained soils, ensures that the vines are not overly vigorous, leading to lower yields but higher quality fruit. The drier conditions also mean that irrigation is often necessary, allowing winemakers greater control over the water supply to the vines, which can be critical in managing vine stress and achieving optimal ripeness.

Soil and Geography: A Mosaic of Terroirs

The soils of Broke Fordwich are as diverse as its climate, contributing to a mosaic of terroirs that produce a wide range of wine styles. The sub-region is characterised by a mix of alluvial flats, sandy loams, and volcanic soils, each bringing something different to the wines.

The valley floor is dominated by deep, fertile alluvial soils, particularly along the banks of the Wollombi Brook and the Fordwich Sill, a prominent geological feature that runs through the sub-region. These soils are rich in nutrients and retain moisture well, making them ideal for the cultivation of white varietals like Semillon and Verdelho. The wines produced from these areas are typically fresh and vibrant, with crisp acidity and a lively fruit character.

Moving away from the alluvial flats, the soils become lighter and sandier, particularly on the slopes of the surrounding hills. These well-drained soils are better suited to red varietals such as Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. The reduced fertility of these soils means that the vines produce smaller, more concentrated berries, resulting in wines with greater intensity and depth of flavor.

The Fordwich Sill itself is a unique feature of the sub-region, composed of ancient volcanic basalt that weathers into fertile, red-brown loams. These soils are particularly prized for their ability to produce complex, structured wines with a distinctive minerality. The wines from vineyards on the Fordwich Sill are often described as having a distinct earthiness and depth, reflecting the volcanic origins of the soil.

The topography of Broke Fordwich, with its gentle slopes and varied elevations, also plays a crucial role in shaping the terroir. The slopes allow for better drainage and exposure to sunlight, both of which are critical for achieving optimal ripeness in the grapes. The varied elevations also mean that different parts of the sub-region experience slightly different microclimates, contributing to the diversity of wine styles produced here.

Grape Varietals and Winemaking Techniques

Broke Fordwich is known for its diverse range of grape varietals, with both red and white wines being produced to high standards. The sub-region’s unique combination of climate, soil, and geography allows for the cultivation of a variety of grapes, each expressing the distinct characteristics of their terroir.

Broke Fordwich is a leader in sustainable viticulture, with many of its vineyards practicing organic or biodynamic farming. This commitment to sustainability is reflected in the quality and character of the wines produced here.

Semillon is one of the standout varietals of Broke Fordwich, with the sub-region producing some of the finest examples in the Hunter Valley. The cooler climate and fertile soils of the valley floor are ideal for this varietal, resulting in wines that are crisp, vibrant, and full of citrus and green apple flavours. These Semillons are typically made in a dry style, with high acidity and low alcohol, making them perfect for aging. As they age, they develop complex flavours of honey, toast, and nuts, all while maintaining their fresh, zesty character.

Verdelho is another white varietal that thrives in Broke Fordwich. Originally from Portugal, Verdelho has found a second home in the Hunter Valley, where it produces wines with a rich, tropical fruit character and a refreshing acidity. Broke Fordwich Verdelho is often enjoyed young, offering a burst of pineapple, guava, and citrus flavours, with a crisp, clean finish. It is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of foods, making it a popular choice among both locals and visitors.

Shiraz is the most important red varietal in Broke Fordwich, with the sub-region producing wines that are distinct from those of Pokolbin or the Upper Hunter Valley. Broke Fordwich Shiraz is typically medium-bodied, with a focus on balance and elegance. The wines often display flavours of dark berries, plums, and black pepper, with a fine tannin structure that makes them suitable for aging. The volcanic soils of the Fordwich Sill contribute a distinctive earthiness and minerality to the wines, adding layers of complexity and depth.

Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are also significant varietals in Broke Fordwich. Chardonnay from the sub-region ranges from crisp, unoaked styles to richer, barrel-fermented wines, with flavours of stone fruit, citrus, and a touch of oak. Cabernet Sauvignon, while less widely planted than Shiraz, produces wines of great intensity and structure, with dark fruit flavours and firm tannins.

Winemaking in Broke Fordwich is marked by a respect for tradition, combined with a spirit of innovation. Many of the sub-region’s winemakers are committed to sustainable practices, using organic or biodynamic methods to cultivate their vineyards. The use of natural yeasts, minimal intervention, and careful oak aging are common techniques, all aimed at producing wines that truly reflect the unique terroir of Broke Fordwich.

The People: Stewards of the Land

Broke Fordwich’s winemaking identity is deeply connected to the people who have cultivated the land for generations. The sub-region is home to a number of long-established family wineries, as well as newer producers who are bringing fresh ideas and energy to the area.

The Margan family is one of the most influential in Broke Fordwich, with their Margan Wines estate being a cornerstone of the sub-region’s wine industry. Andrew Margan, the winemaker and owner, has been a pioneer in sustainable viticulture and winemaking in the Hunter Valley. Margan Wines is known for its focus on producing wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the Fordwich Sill soils, particularly their Semillon and Shiraz. The estate is also home to a hatted restaurant, where visitors can enjoy local produce and wines in a stunning vineyard setting.

Another key player in the region is Nightingale Wines, a boutique winery that has gained a reputation for producing innovative, small-batch wines. The winemakers at Nightingale Wines are passionate provovateurs, carefully experimenting with different varietals and winemaking techniques, often using wild fermentation and minimal intervention to create wines with distinct personality and flair. Their approach reflects the growing trend in Broke Fordwich towards artisanal, terroir-driven wines.

The sub-region is also home to a number of other family-run wineries, such as Krinklewood and Whispering Brook, each bringing their own unique perspective to the winemaking process. These producers are united by a common goal: to produce wines that are true to the land and reflect the unique terroir of Broke Fordwich.

Conclusion

Broke Fordwich may be one of the lesser-known sub-regions of the Hunter Valley, but it is a place of quiet beauty and exceptional wines. With its cooler climate, diverse soils, and a growing reputation for producing elegant, terroir-driven wines, Broke Fordwich is a sub-region that deserves to be explored and appreciated. As we move to the final article in our series, we will journey to the Upper Hunter Valley, where we will discover yet another facet of this remarkable wine region.