Visitors to the Hunter Valley may have been left puzzled last week after signage at the Tempus Two Cellar Door was replaced with a Roche Estate masthead.

While this may be the first time many have heard of the new name, Roche Group in fact purchased the property from Australian Vintage back in 2009.

Also owner of the Hunter Valley Gardens, Roche Group is hoping to grow its portfolio of properties in the region with the aim of increasing foot traffic to the Hunter Valley and turning it into a “world class tourism destination”.

Australian Vintage has confirmed however that it will continue to operate inside the property as a standalone brand.

“It is business as usual for Tempus Two”, the company said. “We continue to operate inside the property as a standalone brand and our tastings will continue to operate seven days a week.”