Jacqui Felgate reviews: Hubert Estate — the PERFECT location on a cold Melbourne day
Is there a better place on a cold Melbourne day in May than a cellar door, tucked up on a cosy leather couch with a glass of pinot noir in hand? In my humble opinion there isn’t.
Hubert Estate in the Yarra Valley is the latest venture from businessman Gerry Ryan. If you’ve been to the wonderful Mitchelton Winery, the reimaged Hubert Estate is rather similar.
The Mornington Peninsula wine region is well serviced for this kind of experience, with a myriad of dining and accommodation options popping up over the last few years. But choice in the Yarra Valley has been somewhat limited – until now.
Gerry is doing what he did at Mitchelton… build it and they will come. Hubert Estate includes the cellar door, wine store, the restaurant Quarters, event space Harriet, an art gallery and building is underway for an 80 room hotel and wellness centre. We dined mid-week at Quarters and it was buzzing. It’s a long barn-style space, with gorgeous large wooden tables. It’s smart, modern, beautifully presented Australian fare, created by head chef Michael Smith (formally Coda and Tonka).
A moorish scallop served in the shell with nduja, chilli and parsley (7.50 each) was the perfect opening to what was an exceptional lunch.
We followed with hiramasa kingfish ceviche ($17) with orange, fennel and Yarra Valley herbs. This dish was as pretty as it was tasty. For main we shared the Prawn pizza with confit garlic, green chilli pickled red onion and rocket ($27) – ideal for helping soak up a nice glass of Mitchelton rose.
But the hero of the day was the sticky BBQ ribs with slaw and gherkin. For $18 they are excellent value – I could have eaten two plates!
Everything here was really good value for money. The kids’ menu has six options and includes grilled fish, broccoli, zucchini and carrot or grilled chicken skewers with salad and chips.
The only surprise of the day was having to order at the counter or by using the QR code on the table. Food this good deserves wait staff at the table.
We concluded lunch in the cellar, a short walk down the path. A tasting of three Yarra Valley reds, and a charcuterie. Heaven.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the cellar! Tucked in a concrete bunker in the side of the hill, it’s the perfect way to finish off the day.
Hubert Estate
1-3 St Huberts Rd, Coldstream
Ph: 8756 1600