Looking for a boozy weekend away from Melbourne? A trip to Mornington is definitely what you need - with over 200 Mornington Peninsula wineries in the region, the toughest part of your trip is probably going to be picking between them and deciding whether you’ll have yet another glass of wine!
The cool, temperate climate of the peninsula makes it the ideal place to grow quality grapes, leading to producing some of the world's finest wines. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just keen for a different scene this weekend, here is a list of our favourite wineries in the Mornington, plus some of the best things to do in the Mornington Peninsula.
- Trofeo Estate
- T'Gallant Wines
- Merricks General Wine Store
- Montalto Winery
- Quealy Winemakers
- Green Olive at Red Hill
- Foxeys Hangout Wine Co.
- Pt. Leo Estate
- Paringa Estate
- 10 Minutes by Tractor
- Port Phillip Estate
1. Trofeo Estate
Take in the lush views of the vineyard as you sample wines. Image Credits: @wildadventuresmelbourne on Instagram
This family-owned vineyard is all about bringing back the best from the past. It's housed in a restored 1930s building used to pack fruits. It prides itself on its Terracotta amphora-aged wine, which results in fruity flavours and an excellent mouthfeel. Plus, all of their wines are 100% vegan.
Address: 85 Harrisons Road, Dromana, Victoria 3936
Opening Hours: Every day from 10am to 5pm
Known For: Being the largest producer of terracotta amphora wine in the southern hemisphere
Maximise your time in the area and combine your Mornington Peninsula winery tour with a full-day adventure around the region. Go on a paddleboard adventure, a trip to the iconic bathing boxes, a hike through the Bushrangers Bay, and a soak in the Peninsula Hot Springs. How's that for a jam-packed weekend trip away?
2. T'Gallant Wines
Indulge in delicious, quality white wines. Credit: @tgallantwines on Instagram
When it comes to pairing a glass (or two) with delicious food, look no further than T'Gallant Wines. Their crisp, bright Pinot Grigio is best enjoyed alongside a slice of pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven or a tray of finely aged cheeses. If Pinots are not your thing, you can also try the estate's sparkling Moscato and refreshing Rosé varieties.
Address: 1385 Mornington-Flinders Rd, Main Ridge VIC, 3928
Opening Hours: 10 am to 5 pm
Known For: popularising Pinot Gris and Grigio in Australia
Pack in the sights and the bites on a full-day Mornington Peninsula tour that will take you to Murray’s Lookout, local orchards, and strawberry farms. You'll even get time to explore Flinders and shop for artisan-made souvenirs. Not to mention a visit to the peninsula's famed bathing boxes for a chance to take great photos.
3. Merricks General Wine Store
Take in the lush views of the vineyard as you sample wines. Image credits: @merricksgeneralwinestore on Instagram
There's no better place than Merricks General Wine Store to get an authentic local experience on the peninsula. Merricks has been serving the local community for almost 100 years. It might not be a winery, but it is a great place to enjoy savoury, aged wine from the Baillieu and Elgee Park vineyards. You can take your pick from the region's best-selling Pinots to the lesser-known but exceptionally made Shiraz and Merlot varieties.
Address: 1385 Mornington-Flinders Rd, Main Ridge VIC, 3928
Opening Hours: 8:30 am to 5 pm
Known For: its rich 99-year history in the Mornington Peninsula
Since you're already in the area, why not make it into a day of exploring the highlights of the Mornington Peninsula wine region? Enjoy lunch with fine wine at Merricks and spend the rest of the day seeing the peninsula's beautiful rolling hills and learning about its colourful winemaking heritage.
4. Montalto Winery
Learn about the delicacies of wine from an expert. Image credit: @montaltovineyard on Instagram
As a Halliday Red Five Star winery, Montalto has secured its place at the top of Australia's list of best winemakers. The estate's Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines have garnered awards for their outstanding depth of flavour. To make the most out of your visit, combine it with a tasting experience that will bring the best out of the wine and gourmet food.
Address: Shoreham Road, Red Hill South, VIC 3937
Opening Hours: 11 am to 5 pm
Known For: producing award-winning Pinots and Shiraz varieties
Expand your Mornington Peninsula winery lunch into a jam-packed day of discovering the region's best. Indulge in wines at various estates as you learn the ins and outs of producing a good bottle. You can also take in fantastic views when you visit Murray's Lookout and the colourful bathing boxes.
5. Quealy Winemakers
Get to know the different facets of wine at Quealy’s. Image credit: @quealywines on Instagram
Among the most distinguished Mornington Peninsula wineries, Quealy Winemakers' light and fruity Pinot Gris and Grigio are must-tries. Besides the classics, they're also known for their new and experimental varieties like the amphora-fermented Turbul Friulano and Secco Splendido. Their innovative ways translate to the vibe of the estate, which brings about a unique, rustic charm, unlike other wineries.
Address: 62 Bittern-Dromana Road, Balnarring, VIC 3926
Opening Hours: 9 am to 5 pm
Known For: the founder, Kathleen Quealy, has been hailed as the Queen of Pinot Grigio
Just a short 20 minutes away, we recommend heading over to Arthurs Seat Eagle, where you can take in uninterrupted views on a relaxing gondola ride - with views of swaying Manna Gums, grazing kangas and the trace of distant coastlines!
6. Green Olive at Red Hill
Have a blast trying out different drinks with friends Image credit: @greenoliveatredhill on Instagram
For an authentic farm experience, Green Olive at Red Hill is the place to be. The family-owned vineyard boasts a cosy, countryside charm, making it one of the most unique Mornington Peninsula wineries to visit. The 27-acre estate is home to a garden of veggies and herbs, a vibrant vineyard, and animals such as sheep, ducks, and chickens.
Address: 1180 Mornington Flinders Road, Main Ridge, VIC 3928
Opening Hours: Thursdays to Mondays from 9 am to 5 pm; open every day during school holidays
Known For: its 27-acre sustainable farm
One of the best ways to make the most out of your visit to Green Olive is to go on a farm picnic for two. Take your pick among the winery's wide range of selections, from Pinot and Shiraz to Chardy and Rosé wines, and enjoy your bottle alongside fresh fruits, bread, and cheese. Breathe in the fresh air and revel in the view of the estate as you eat.
7. Foxeys Hangout Wine Co.
Discover how great Pinot Grigios are made at Foxes Hangout Wine Co. Image credit: @foxeyshangout on Instagram
Keen for a break from the bustling city life? Foxes Hangout is just what the doctor ordered. Its laid-back vibe and flavourful wines combine for a relaxing, indulgent experience. Make sure to try out the food when you visit. With a certified chef at the helm, the estate offers delectable dishes to complement their luscious wines.
Address: 795 White Hill Road, Red Hill, VIC 3937
Opening Hours: 11 am to 5 pm
Known For: the first winery on the Mornington Peninsula to be certified biodynamic by Australian Certified Organic
For something different from the usual Mornington Peninsula winery tours, go on a self-guided bike adventure and pedal around vineyards, farms, breweries, and more. Stop by the region's restaurants and boutique shops at your own pace and sample the peninsula's best products. You can also take the time to check out Mornington’s finest cafes to get your daily dose of caffeine.
8. Pt. Leo Estate
Taste the finest wines at Pt. Leo Estate. Image credit: @ptleoestate on Instagram
Discover the best of the west when you head to Pt. Leo Estate. The expansive property boasts a vibrant vineyard, cattle farm, and the Sculpture Park, making it a visual and culinary adventure in one. For the ultimate experience, grab a bite to eat at Wine Terrace. Savour finely-aged Pinot Gris to go along with your gourmet meal while taking in the sweeping views of the estate.
Address: 795 White Hill Road, Red Hill, VIC 3937
Opening Hours: 11 am to 5 pm
Known For: its Sculpture Park that features works by renowned international and Australian artists like Jaume Plensa, Inge King, and Bruce Armstrong
If you're not much of a wine enthusiast, don’t fret. You can go on a Mornington Peninsula distillery tour that will have you trying quality, locally produced whiskey, gin, rum, and beer. The private tour can accommodate up to 7 people, making it the perfect trip for friends.
9. Paringa Estate
Discover the intricacies of winemaking from an expert sommelier. Image credit: @paringaestate
For the perfect combination of food and wine, you can't go wrong with Paringa Estate. Garnering recognition from The Age and the Savour Awards, it has solidified its status as one of Australia's best restaurants and wineries. You'll get something different with every visit since it uses only the freshest, seasonal ingredients for every dish, plus its award-winning Pinot and Chardy wines.
Address: 44 Paringa Road, Red Hill South VIC 3937
Opening Hours: 11 am to 5 pm
Known For: one of the pioneers of winemaking in the Mornington Peninsula
Looking for exciting date activities? Try going on a mystery picnic that will have you solving riddles and snacking on quality food around the Mornington Peninsula. Along the way, you'll also visit local producers to discover what the region has to offer.
10. Ten Minutes by Tractor
Indulge in the finest aged wines. Image credits: @10xtractor on Instagram
For 24 years, Ten Minutes by Tractor has impressed both locals and visitors alike. With acclaimed wines, carefully selected ingredients, and stunning views, the estate has something to offer for everyone. The restaurant has partnered with local producers for fresh, quality ingredients, so you'll enjoy only the peninsula's best.
Address: 1333 Mornington Flinders Road, Main Ridge, VIC 3928
Opening Hours: 11 am to 5 pm
Known For: serving quality food and topnotch wines
If you don't have much time in the area, book a bus winery tour with lunch to experience the region's highlights in a single day. You'll visit four handpicked Mornington Peninsula wineries, where you'll sample their finest bottles and discover the intricacies of winemaking. You just have to sit back and relax — no planning needed!
11. Port Phillip Estate
Enjoy a great night out with friends at Port Phillip Estate Image credits: @portphillipestate on Instagram
Thanks to its strategic location near the coast and its stunning architecture, Port Phillip Estate is one of the most visually exciting Mornington Peninsula wineries. But beyond aesthetics, it's also among the best Mornington Peninsula accommodation and premier winemakers around, winning James Halliday’s Winery of the Year award in 2012. For the ultimate visit, stay for a night and pair your dinner with fine wine at the restaurant to enjoy everything the estate has to offer.
Address: 263 Red Hill Road, Red Hill South, Mornington Peninsula, VIC 3937
Opening Hours: 11 am to 5 pm
Known For: award-winning winery in an architectural marvel
If you want to make your trip to the Mornington just that bit more memorable, we'd also recommend checking out horse riding in the bush through the scenic Gunnamatta trail. The experience is perfect for beginners as a professional guide will be there the entire time for the 1 hour horse ride.
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