Welcome to Moorooduc Estate, a hidden gem located in the captivating Mornington Peninsula. This idyllic destination offers a simple yet exquisite place to savor and relish in the delights of great wine. As the autumn season graces the landscape with its golden hues, there is no better time to embark on a journey to this dynamic region.

Nestled an hour outside of Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula has evolved from a tranquil beach region to a luxurious haven for food and wine enthusiasts. It has swiftly become the most visited area in Victoria, drawing in visitors from far and wide to experience its treasures.

What sets this region apart is its commitment to enotourism. The winery tasting rooms, fondly known as cellar doors, play a pivotal role in the economic stability of the wineries. At Moorooduc Estate, for instance, their tasting room accounts for 40% of their wine sales. This collaborative region is predominantly family-run, which adds to the warm and welcoming hospitality.

When visiting Moorooduc Estate, make sure to keep an eye out for Reg The Peacock, an iconic figure on the property. And if you happen to visit on Saturdays or Sundays, you’re in for a treat with Richard McIntyre’s homemade sourdough bread and Jill McIntyre’s delightful preserves, available while supplies last. Capture a photo of Reg for your Instagram story and create lasting memories.

Another esteemed winery in the region is Stonier, which planted its first vines in 1978. Chardonnay was followed by Pinot Noir four years later. They offer a range of cheese from Red Hill Cheese, a local producer, to accompany their exceptional Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and sparkling wine. It’s the perfect spot to relax and savor the flavors while enjoying the tranquil surroundings.

For those seeking a mid-day indulgence, Ocean’s Eight cellar door is open from Friday to Sunday, offering a selection of stunning wines to savor. The Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and sparkling wine showcase the skill and craftsmanship of the winemakers.

To truly immerse yourself in the vineyard experience, a trip to Ten Minutes By Tractor is a must. Their outstanding restaurant combines delectable cuisine with their award-winning wines, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, rosé, and sparkling wines. The farm-to-table concept shines through their innovative menu, ensuring a memorable dining experience.

Yabby Lake Vineyard is renowned for its premium single-vineyard and single-block wines, particularly Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. They also boast a delightful restaurant that serves lunch daily. Indulge in seasonal and refined local fare while taking in the picturesque views from their dining room or the outdoor deck overlooking the vineyards.

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking panorama at Port Phillip Estate. Their cellar door reveals a dining room with expansive windows and a spacious balcony, offering unparalleled views of the vineyards and bay. The combination of stunning surroundings and exceptional wines creates an unforgettable experience.

When it comes to accommodations in Mornington Peninsula, Polperro Winery stands out. Located in the heart of the famed Red Hill wine region, this tranquil haven offers four beautifully appointed studio apartments. Open seven days a week, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of this region for as long as you desire. Start your day with a continental breakfast, and explore the various packages available for yoga classes, dining, and excursions.

Polperro Winery’s restaurant is a culinary delight, striving to create a harmonious bond between the kitchen and the vineyard. The innovative menu, crafted by the chef and the winemaker, offers a truly enlightening dining experience that celebrates the relationship between people, landscape, and produce.

Be sure to visit the finely crafted cellar door at Polperro and Even Keel wines. Winemaker Sam Coverdale adheres to a philosophy that promotes minimal intervention and sustainable practices, allowing the unique qualities of the vineyard sites to shine through in the wines.

Mornington Peninsula offers a haven for wine lovers and food enthusiasts, a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of Melbourne and unwind in the beauty of the vineyards. Embark on a journey to this enchanting region and discover the magic that awaits. Cheers to great wine, exquisite cuisine, and unforgettable moments.

***Phillip Estate: An Enchanting Fusion of Architecture, Gastronomy, and Viticulture***

Tucked away in the picturesque undulating hills, Phillip Estate stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of sustainability and modernity. A magnificent limestone structure emerges from the landscape, showcasing the alchemy of architecture, food, and wine that awaits within. As you step through the cellar door, a breathtaking panorama unfolds before your eyes, with vast windows revealing a dining room that seamlessly merges with a spacious balcony, providing mesmerizing views of the vineyards and bay.

The casual chic ambience of the dining room sets the stage for a culinary journey shaped by the local terroir and seasonal delights. From Wednesday to Sunday, lunch is served, while dinner is reserved for Fridays and Saturdays. It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, as this experience is one that should not be missed. The menu features a carefully curated selection from both Port Phillip and Kooyong Estates, offering a true exploration of the region’s exquisite wines.

Venturing further into the depths of the winery, a subterranean world awaits. Six private suites beckon visitors with their luxurious offerings. Each suite promises a haven of indulgence, boasting a king-size bed, opulent bathroom, sunken living area, fully equipped kitchen, and a private terrace overlooking the sprawling vineyards. Pampering bath products, cozy bath robes, and thought-provoking art adorn these intimate spaces, inviting guests to immerse themselves in tranquility.

Should you choose to extend your stay at Phillip Estate, you have the option to revel in a romantic interlude or indulge in a weekend getaway. As you bask in the charming allure of the surroundings, it becomes evident that if legendary filmmakers Stanley Kubrick and David Lynch were to collaborate on a hotel, it would surely be the extraordinary Jackalope Hotel of Mornington Peninsula.

Louis Li, the visionary son of renowned hotel developers, made Melbourne his home in 2007. A film student at heart, Li combined his artistic passion with his profound understanding of the hospitality industry to create a destination that defies convention. Drawing inspiration from American neo-noir films, the Jackalope Hotel is a symphony of rustic charm, sleek style, and a touch of Blue Velvet/Pulp Fiction sensibility. Prepare to have your expectations shattered as this unique establishment effortlessly delivers on luxury while defying logical boundaries.

The casual delights of lunch await at Rare Hare, the cellar door restaurant. Here, a delightful array of small plates infused with local flavors tantalizes the taste buds. Quench your thirst with beers crafted by nearby brewers and sip on the exquisite Willow Creek Vineyard wine, lovingly cultivated on the property. Following a delectable lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the vineyards or plunge into the invigorating waters of the daring infinite pool, immersing yourself in the serenity that surrounds you.

The pinnacle of culinary excellence is found at Doot Doot Doot, a must-visit for dinner. This chic restaurant presents a sensational, indulgent 5-course dinner that transcends mere sustenance. Elevating this gastronomic experience to new heights is a captivating installation of 10,000 golden, undulating lights, symbolizing wine during the mid-ferment process. This awe-inspiring creation is the vision of artist Jan Flook and adds an ethereal touch to an evening of culinary delights. For the perfect finale to your night, savor a nightcap at the trendy Flaggerooot bar or retreat to one of the 46 luxurious rooms. Sip a glass of wine on your private terrace or luxuriate in a deep soak in the Japanese tub, complete with provided bath salts. In this haven, every choice is the right one.

It is important to note that to fully relish the offerings of Phillip Estate, including cellar doors, restaurants, and accommodations, advance reservations are required. This ensures that you receive the utmost attention and enjoy an experience that will forever leave an indelible mark on your senses.

Prepare to embark on a journey that seamlessly unites architecture, gastronomy, and viticulture. Discover the enchantment of Phillip Estate and the mesmerizing allure of Mornington Peninsula’s Jackalope Hotel. Let these remarkable destinations redefine your expectations and leave you yearning to return time and time again.