The Hunter Valley is the most important quality wine producing region of New South Wales, lying in the hinterland above Sydney. Soils are generally rich volcanic and alluvial. The best vineyard sites appear to be located near to the Brokenback Range, which is exposed to the cool sea breezes coming up the Hunter River. Shiraz and Semillons can be exceptional here, as well as some producers also making very fine Cabernet Sauvignons and Chardonnays.