Lovedale, Hunter Valley Vineyard Cooking Classes

Established in 2007, our cooking classes are hugely popular with locals and visitors to our spectacular region. 

 Cooking Classes are held in the covered courtyard of our cafe. Splashing fountains, chilled music and sensational vineyard views create a unique relaxed outdoor cooking class environment for our participants.  

We accept bookings from individuals and groups. Our class sizes are limited so that we can provide plenty of one-on-one tutorial opportunities and plenty of time to be able to answer your questions. 

Tickets are $155 per person and include a hands-on cooking class, souvenir apron, recipe booklet, a glass of wine or beer and lunch. Lunch can be enjoyed on-premises or can be packed-up to take home.  Bookings close 48 hours prior to the class start time.  

Classes are hosted by Majors Lane Cooking School and Lovedale      Smokehouse’s Owner/Chef/Pitmaster Ben Sales. 

Ben, a level 4 qualified Chef has hosted our cooking classes since they commenced in 2007. 

Ben is extremely passionate about food and loves inspiring participants with his in-depth knowledge, skills and travel and food experiences. With over 30 years as a Head Chef in the Hunter Valley Ben knows all of the tricks of the trade and looks forward to sharing them with you. 

 Give the ultimate experience to your loved one, a gift certificate to join us for a fun outdoor cooking class on our beautiful vineyard! 

Gift certificates are valid for 3 years.

The gift certificate recipient can select their preferred class and date (subject to availability). 

Gift Certificates are emailed to you immediately upon purchase. 

Your senses will be ignited by the smells, sounds and flavours of Thailand as you learn how to compile a tantalising menu, find and select the best local produce and balance the fundamental flavours of Thai cuisine.

Our Chef Ben will teach you how to make curry pastes from scratch, make balanced dipping sauces and use knife and presentation skills to bring your authentic dishes to life.

Much more than just a cooking class, Ben will share his experiences of travel throughout Thailand with tales of the people, culture, history, sights and food.

Our Low and Slow Smoking Cooking Classes in the Hunter Valley will give you all the knowledge and skills you need to make top-grade, mouth-watering slow smoked meats. We offer Beef Brisket or Pork Rib Masterclasses.

Whilst meats smoke in the Traegar smoker in front of you, our Pitmaster Ben will cover topics such as meat selection, preparation, smoking methods, cooking temperatures, cooking times, smoker types and timber selection.

Each class has additional learning opportunities which depending on the class you choose may include sauces, rubs and sides.

Once the smoked meats are ready, you will enjoy a meat-sweat inducing meal to enjoy on-site or to take home. 

Private cooking classes in the Hunter Valley are available with a minimum 6 participants-maximum 24 participants

Our private cooking classes are perfect for family get-togethers, wine tours, social groups hen's parties, bucks parties, team building & as a conference breakout experience. 

Private classes are available Mondays, Thursdays & Fridays with a start time between 9.30am & 11.00am. Please allow 3 hours (including lunch) for the entire experience. 

Choose between our Vibrant Thai Street Food class or a Low and Slow Smoking Rib or Brisket Masterclass.