Hatted Chef Unlocks Pokolbin's Hidden Gem for Exclusive Events
For two decades, the magnificent Sweetwater Estate in Pokolbin, Hunter Valley, has remained a closely guarded secret, hidden from public view. That is all set to change dramatically this September, as acclaimed chef Troy Rhoades-Brown opens the gates to this extraordinary property through his new venture, Muse at Sweetwater.
A Deep Connection to the Land
Troy Rhoades-Brown, the celebrated chef and owner of the two-hatted Muse Restaurant, has nurtured a profound relationship with Sweetwater Estate that extends far beyond business. "I'm there every couple of weeks picking mulberries, oranges, ruby grapefruit, heirloom lemons, figs, bay leaves ... there are hidden orchards all through the place," he reveals. "For a long time now, the inspiration for dishes at Muse Restaurant has come from Sweetwater. Over the years I've fallen in love with the place."
This intimate connection made the opportunity to collaborate with property owner Sam Arnout irresistible. While Rhoades-Brown had previously considered opening a restaurant in Newcastle, the alignment between Sweetwater's ethos and Muse's culinary philosophy proved perfect. "It's just so aligned with what we do at Muse, it's just around the corner and I am already attached to it," he explains.
European Grandeur in the Hunter Valley
Sweetwater Estate is no ordinary property. Spanning 120 acres of pristine Hunter Valley landscape, the estate features:
- Vineyards covering approximately 40 acres
- An olive grove and serene lake
- Established European-style gardens
- A castle constructed from reclaimed architectural elements
The property's centerpiece is a European-style castle that crowns the estate, built more than twenty years ago using authentic materials sourced from historic castles and chateaux across southern Europe. "We're talking about people going all over southern Europe and selecting the marble and light fittings and roof tiles and chandeliers out of manors, chateaux and castles from France, Spain and Italy," Rhoades-Brown describes with admiration. "Money alone couldn't have put that place together. This is the work of someone astute who had an addiction to making something so perfect."
Transforming Spaces for Unforgettable Events
Muse at Sweetwater will offer exclusive access to previously private areas of the estate for weddings, bespoke corporate gatherings, and private events. While the castle itself remains a private residence, couples will have the unprecedented opportunity to use its exterior and the transformative courtyard for wedding photographs.
"It's the first time this has ever been offered at Sweetwater," Rhoades-Brown confirms. "That was a big drawcard for me - the opportunity to take the bride and groom up to this courtyard after the ceremony so that they can have a moment, and a glass of champagne together, before the bridal party comes up for photos."
The estate offers multiple event spaces including:
- The Gatekeepers House, a two-bedroom accommodation featuring a luxurious wedding suite with a remarkable $40,000 limestone bathtub
- A charming on-site chapel that has previously hosted wine events for Sweetwater's wine club members
- A newly developed amphitheatre area with four grass tiers, decorative stonework, and a marquee platform
"That area is yours to create; a blank canvas," Rhoades-Brown says of the amphitheatre space. "You can come in and activate different areas, everything from bespoke cocktail, caviar and champagne bars to medieval games."
Culinary Excellence with a Sense of Place
True to the Muse Restaurant brand, Muse at Sweetwater will deliver exceptional culinary experiences that reflect both the seasons and the unique character of the Hunter Valley. Rhoades-Brown describes the food offering as "refined European" with menus carefully crafted to celebrate the region's finest produce.
"Muse at Sweetwater's food offering is aligned with what we believe the Muse brand is - it's refined, it's beautiful, it's expressive, it champions some of the best growers in the state, it tells a story of a place," he emphasizes. "I've had to write four menus that work with the seasons. We'll champion one particular piece of produce, let's say, duck, and then there is a spring, autumn, winter and summer garnish to go with each individual protein."
The chef's personal connection to the estate's bounty ensures that each dish will carry the authentic taste of Sweetwater, creating dining experiences that are both luxurious and intimately connected to their surroundings.
A New Chapter for Hunter Valley Hospitality
From September 2026, Muse at Sweetwater will begin welcoming guests to experience this previously inaccessible slice of Hunter Valley paradise. The venture represents a significant addition to the region's hospitality landscape, combining architectural grandeur with culinary excellence in a setting that feels transported from southern Europe.
"There's a real sense of romance at Sweetwater," Rhoades-Brown reflects. "Some places, like the courtyard up behind the castle, are completely transformative. It's like you are no longer in Australia in any capacity. You are in a southern European manor's courtyard. It's just a really, really special place."
With weathered stone, wrought iron detailing, and stories embedded in every archway, Sweetwater Estate offers an authenticity that cannot be manufactured. Through Muse at Sweetwater, Troy Rhoades-Brown is now sharing this magical property with those seeking truly exceptional events in one of Australia's most celebrated wine regions.
