Liz Silkman is the winemaker at First Creek, a family-owned winery in Pokolbin. Four times Hunter Valley Winemaker of the Year and Halliday Wine Companion Winemaker of the Year 2025, she works across Merlot, Semillon, Shiraz, Fiano, Chardonnay, and Vermentino. Recent wins include the Classic Hunter Valley Rosé 2025 as Best NSW Rosé, the Single Vineyard Oakey Creek Semillon 2017 as 2026 Semillon of the Year at Halliday and Best Semillon at Sydney Royal Wine Show, and the Limited Release Hunter Valley Vermentino 2025 taking Best Other White Varietal at Sydney Royal and NSW Wine's Best Other Single Variety White. Tasting fees range from $10 to $65 per person.
Checked against the winery’s website on September 5, 2026.
When to visit First Creek
Monday10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Good to know about First Creek
Yes, First Creek has a tasting room open to visitors.
First Creek focuses on Merlot, Semillon, Shiraz, Fiano, Chardonnay, and more. Signature bottles include Classic Hunter Valley Rosé 2025, Single Vineyard Oakey Creek Semillon 2017, Classic Hunter Valley Shiraz 2022, Limited Release Hunter Valley Fiano 2025, Winemaker's Reserve Chardonnay 2023, Winemaker's Reserve Shiraz 2023, Classic Hunter Valley Semillon 2025, Limited Release Hunter Valley Vermentino 2025. When booking a tasting, ask which current release best represents the estate's style.
A tasting at First Creek costs AU$10 to AU$65 per person, as listed on the winery's own website on September 5, 2026. Classic Tasting $10 · Flex Tasting $20 · Wine and Cheese Pairing $25 · Member for a Day $40 · +2 more (AUD) Fees change with the season and the experience booked, so confirm the current price when you reserve.
Yes, First Creek has food available alongside tastings. Having food while tasting reduces the effect of alcohol and helps you taste more accurately. Worth taking advantage of when offered.
Yes, First Creek welcomes dogs. Policies usually cover outdoor areas only and expect dogs on a leash. Call ahead if you're bringing more than one, or if the weather is pushing everyone indoors.
First Creek is in Pokolbin, New South Wales, in the Hunter Valley wine region. Phone: (02) 4998 7293. Confirm hours before visiting. Winery schedules vary seasonally.
The winemaking at First Creek is led by Liz Silkman. Visiting during special events or release weekends is often the best chance to meet the winemaking team and ask questions about specific vintages or techniques.
First Creek offers: Book a Tasting. Seated or guided experiences typically include more context about the wines and the estate's approach. Worth booking if you want depth over breadth.
Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Hours may vary seasonally. Confirm by phone or on their website before visiting.
Yes, First Creek has outdoor seating. Availability is weather-dependent. Call ahead to confirm, particularly outside summer months.
Where to find First Creek
600 McDonalds Rd Pokolbin, New South Wales, Australia
