Melbourne: Mornington Peninsula Wine Day Tour

When it comes to wine country close to Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula shines brightly. This tour promises a full day of tasting cool climate wines, paired with stunning scenery, a relaxed country lunch, and plenty of insider insights. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and itinerary details paint a compelling picture of what you can expect.

What really catches our eye are the personalized small-group vibe, the chance to sample award-winning wines, and the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views from Arthurs Seat. The only thing to consider is the 10-hour duration—so, be prepared for a full day of sightseeing and sipping. This experience is perfect for wine lovers, foodies, or anyone craving a taste of Victoria’s scenic hinterlands with a side of fine wine.

Key Points

• Exclusive small-group experience offers personalized attention and better interaction with guides.
• Diverse vineyard visits showcase a range of cool-climate wines, from pinot noir to Italian-inspired varietals.
• Excellent value with tastings, a three-course lunch, cheese platter, and bottled water included.
• Stunning scenery from vineyard views to Arthurs Seat lookout, perfect for photo lovers.
• High-rated guides like Paul and Cam excel in providing informative and friendly commentary.
• Ideal for wine aficionados, foodies, and those who enjoy scenic day trips from Melbourne.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

This tour begins with a comfortable drive through Melbourne’s southeastern suburbs, quickly leaving urban sights behind for the lush landscapes of the Mornington Peninsula. Surrounded by Port Phillip and Westernport Bays, the region is famed for its beaches, rolling vineyards, and striking vistas.

First Stop: Yabby Lake Vineyard

Your first taste of the region’s excellence comes at Yabby Lake Vineyard, a family-owned operation since 1998. Here, you’re greeted with the chance to taste award-winning, cool-climate wines grown on-site, including pinot noir, chardonnay, shiraz, and pinot gris. Yabby Lake’s reputation for quality makes it a favorite for wine enthusiasts, and the fact that it covers 120 acres makes for impressive tasting grounds.

One reviewer highlights the personalized experience they received at Yabby Lake, especially when the tour turned into a private outing. Our guides are known for their friendly, knowledgeable style, often sharing insights about vineyard practices, wine production, and regional differences that truly enhance the tasting.

Crittenden Estate: A Regional Favorite

Next, a quick drive along the coast brings you to Crittenden Estate in Dromana, active since 1984. This vineyard offers a more established experience, with regional classics like chardonnay, pinot noir, and pinot gris. The estate also features Italian and Iberian varietals, making tastings particularly interesting for those looking to explore a variety of flavors.

Guests often appreciate learning about the regional history and vineyard stories, with one reviewer praising the guide for their informative commentary. This stop deepens your understanding of the region’s wine heritage, making each sip more meaningful.

Quealy Vineyard: Italian Inspiration

Crossing over to Balnarring, you arrive at Quealy Vineyard. Here, the focus is on lively Italian-inspired wines paired with a cheese and biscuit platter. The setting is relaxed, and the wine selections are described as “lively” and perfect for pairing with the local produce.

Many reviews mention enjoying the casual yet refined atmosphere, with one guest emphasizing the value of tasting a diverse range of wines in one visit. The cheese platter adds a communal, picnic-like vibe that makes this stop both fun and tasty.

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The Heart of the Day: Lunch at Merricks General Store

Lunch is hosted at the charming Merricks General Store, a beautifully restored 1920s timber building. Here, you’ll indulge in an impressive a la carte menu, choosing your main course and enjoying a glass of wine chosen to complement your meal.

Guests love the warm, country welcome and the authenticity of the setting. One reviewer mentions the delicious food and friendly service, which elevates the whole experience. This stop not only fuels you for the rest of the day but also gives you a taste of local, hearty fare.

Afternoon Highlights: Ten Minutes by Tractor Vineyards

Post-lunch, the tour heads to Ten Minutes by Tractor at Main Ridge, renowned for its high-quality wines and scenic vineyards. It’s a great chance to sample more premium wines in a picturesque setting, with some reviews noting the impressive wine quality and friendly guides.

Final Stop: Arthurs Seat Viewpoint

The day wraps up with a visit to Arthurs Seat, the highest point on the peninsula. Here, panoramic views stretch across the landscape—perfect for photos and a moment of reflection on the day’s adventures. Many guests mention how this outlook offers a perfect finale, combining scenic beauty with a sense of achievement.

What We Love About the Tour

Expert Guides: Reviewers repeatedly praise guides like Paul and Cam for their knowledgeability, friendliness, and ability to make each stop special. Their insights turn a simple tasting into a rich story, making the experience more engaging.

Stunning Scenery: From vineyard vistas to sweeping lookout views, the tour is as much about the landscape as the wine. It’s a visual feast that makes every moment feel special.

Diverse Tasting Experiences: Visiting multiple vineyards with different focuses—award-winning wines, Italian-inspired varietals, and family-owned estates—ensures you get a well-rounded snapshot of the region’s offerings.

Authentic, Local Lunch: The lunch at Merricks General Store is more than just fuel; it’s a highlight that demonstrates the region’s homegrown charm and culinary quality.

What to Keep in Mind

While the tour offers tremendous value, it is a full-day commitment of about 10 hours. This means long hours on the road and plenty of wine tastings, so comfortable shoes, a good attitude, and hydration are essential. Also, the tour is not suitable for children under 18, and groups of bachelor or bachelorette parties are discouraged—probably to keep the atmosphere relaxed and respectful.

The price of $205 per person includes tastings, lunch, cheese, water, and a glass of wine. When you consider the number of vineyards visited, the quality of wine, and the included meal, it’s a solid deal for an all-encompassing day trip.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Victoria’s cool-climate varietals in a relaxed, scenic setting. It’s also perfect for food lovers who appreciate a hearty, local lunch paired with tastings. Travelers wanting a personalized, intimate tour experience will find the small-group format very appealing.

If you’re after a comprehensive yet laid-back introduction to Mornington Peninsula’s wine scene—without the hassle of arranging your own tastings—this tour offers great convenience, expert guides, and plenty of memorable moments.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for wine beginners?
Absolutely. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, and tastings are designed for all levels. They will help you understand what you’re tasting, regardless of your experience.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 10 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening. Be prepared for a full day of sightseeing and tasting.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers all wine tastings, cheese and biscuits, a three-course lunch with a glass of wine, bottled water, and the services of a live guide.

Are there any restrictions during the tour?
Yes, large bags, drones, smoking, drinking alcohol outside tastings, and food or drinks in the vehicle are not permitted. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 18 or groups celebrating bachelor/bachelorette parties.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
While purchases aren’t included in the price, you are free to buy wine directly from the vineyards if you wish.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option if your plans change.

Final Words

The Melbourne: Mornington Peninsula Wine Day Tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and tasting-filled adventure that showcases the best of Victoria’s cool-climate wines. It balances professional guidance with personal touches, making it perfect for wine lovers and curious travelers alike.

While it’s a long day, the diversity of experiences—from vineyard visits to stunning outlooks—ensures you get real value for your money. It’s an authentic taste of the region’s rich viticulture, paired with beautiful scenery and hearty local food. This tour suits those looking for a relaxed, expertly led day out that captures the essence of Mornington Peninsula’s wine and landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: