Spicers Retreats is set to brand Tower Estate lodge in Pokolbin, one of the New South Wales Hunter Valley’s most celebrated properties.
As part of the move, Tower Estate will be reimagined by its owners, thanks to an AUD$6 million renovation, expected to be complete by June 2022. The move is part of a collaboration between two family-owned businesses that share a deep passion for the region and its vinous roots, Spicers Retreats and Tower Estate.
Tower Estate is owned by Michael and Karen Hope of nearby Hope Estate and they are excited to announce the inception of Spicers Tower Lodge in the heart of Hunter Valley wine country.
Michael said Spicers Tower Lodge is a labour of love that “will bring back to glory a magnificent venue with a rich history, built by two partners with a strong presence in the region”.
“Hope Estate shares much with Spicers Retreats,” he said. “We’ve both worked to do something wonderful with our piece of heaven in the Hunter, and draw in more people seeking somewhere to enjoy life to the fullest.
“But we each bring something unique to the partnership… Spicers have perfected their brand of relaxed luxury, and we’re the custodians of Tower Estate. This area is my family’s lifeblood,” Hope said.
Michael said the Hope Estate winery, brewery and distillery in Pokolbin is set in spectacular grounds, and home to Australia’s largest winery concert amphitheatre.
Spicers Tower Lodge will become the third Spicers Retreat in the area, joining Spicers Vineyards Estate and Spicers Guesthouse.
Spicers Retreats Managing Director, David Assef, said each retreat compliments the region, offers a very different experience and was excited about what Spicers Tower Lodge would bring to the mix.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to be working with the Hope family to restore Tower Estate,” he said.
“It’s a great opportunity for all of us to bring back an iconic lodge drawing on its history and creating something special together.”
“We have ambitious plans for the Lodge and function space. The buildings will have that sense of place and a strong connection to the landscape, with plentiful natural materials and colours.
“Spicers Tower Lodge will be a new way to experience the flavour and landscapes of the beautiful Hunter Valley tapping into the world class wines of the region and working alongside Australia’s best chefs and restaurateurs in the region,” Assef said.