There’s a reason they’ve been pouring wines for over 100 years. Steeped in history and charisma, this local gem belongs at the top of your Mudgee must-visit list. Get your notepad out, it’s time to jot down Roth’s Wine Bar and Cellar.
Some venues make it to your wish list, perhaps for their unique charm or popularity. But the really special places? They’re the ones that find a permanent spot on your must-visit list; the establishments you return to time and time again. And no matter how many times you visit, the experience never grows old. Roth’s, one of New South Wales’ oldest wine bars, is one of those places.
Those special places always have something in common. There’s never just one component that keeps you returning like a boomerang – they have the whole package. From the atmospheric twinkling fairy lights to the share-style wood-fired pizzas, the acoustic live music and the vintage fit-out, everything melds together to create this one-of-a-kind establishment.
Just when you thought the atmosphere couldn’t get better, there’s the trivia. Try your hand at trivia against the locals. Roth’s donates a dollar for every person who plays Thursday trivia to Wings for Kids, their chosen charity that flies children to medical assistance from regional areas to major hospitals.
Wander just 100 metres from Mudgee’s iconic clock tower and you’ll spot Roth’s, a seemingly small venue that surprises with its 140-seater capacity, complete with a bar, cellar, courtyard and shed. Whether you’re seeking a fire-side dinner for two or a large event celebration, “nothing is off the table” says the team at Roth’s.
Rewind time to over 100 years ago, Roth’ s started life as a general store, where farmers could discreetly purchase a little more than just essentials. When these extra items appeared on the farmers’ accounts, they read as ordinary farm supplies, names like “1080” concealing the alcoholic concoctions within.
In 1923, the store transformed into Roth’s Wine Bar, officially licensed to serve the same drinks that had long been flowing under the counter. Now, a century later, Roth’s continues to honour its origins by serving these original potions alongside its impressive menu of regional wines. The history is etched into the very fabric of the building, with its unique general store terrace harking back to those early days.
There’s something about share-style, hands-on food that brings about an essence of home. Roth’s menu has been designed to share – it’s about bringing people together to enjoy good food and good wine. I can confirm, they’ve hit the mark.
Along with hearty pizzas and dishes showcasing local produce, you’ll find no shortage of a glass of your favourite (or perhaps new favourite), beverage. The bar serves everything from local Baker Williams Distillery spirits to Small Batch Brewery ales and of course, Roth’s pride and joy: Grapes of Roth.
Grapes of Roth is a special range of nine wines produced using only Mudgee fruit, crafted by local winemakers in honour of the region and Roth’s Wine Bar and Cellar’s century-long legacy. Try a casual wine tasting to sample over 18 wines, including the Grapes of Roth range, and leave with a bottle you love.
Whether it’s the charm of the history or the warmth of the hospitality, Roth’s Wine Bar and Cellar is where Mudgee's past and present come together.
