Farmers Lunch - Food and Wine for 2

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Farmers Lunch – Food and Wine for 2: A Local Farm Experience in Victoria

If you’re craving a relaxed, farm-inspired dining experience on the Mornington Peninsula, the Farmers Lunch – Food and Wine for 2 offered by Green Olive at Red Hill might just be your ideal escape. This two-hour session combines stunning views, seasonal grazing plates, and estate wines, creating a laid-back atmosphere that celebrates the region’s bountiful produce. While it’s not a full-blown winery tour, it offers a cozy glimpse into farm life with thoughtful touches.

What we absolutely love about this experience is its small-group intimacy, the delicious grazing style food inspired by local ingredients, and the dog-friendly environment—perfect for travelers who want to bring their furry friends along. However, if you’re expecting a comprehensive wine tasting or a longer gourmet experience, this might be more of a leisurely, farm-themed lunch rather than a deep dive into wine craftsmanship. This experience suits couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a quiet, authentic taste of rural Victoria without leaving the wine region.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic farm-to-table experience with seasonal grazing plates.
Includes a glass of estate wine, beer, or cider for each person.
Dog-friendly environment, ideal for pet owners.
Two-hour duration with morning and afternoon options.
Limited to small groups (up to 2 participants), ensuring an intimate vibe.
Beautiful views of vineyards, dam, and kitchen garden enhance the experience.

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What to Expect from the Farmers Lunch Experience

Green Olive at Red Hill is more than just a winery; it’s a genuine farm experience spread across 27 acres of lush landscape just an hour from Melbourne. The farm’s diverse produce—olives, grapes, herbs, vegetables, lemons, hops, and bush food—provides the basis for the grazing plates. Raising sheep and maintaining a vibrant kitchen garden, the farm embodies sustainable, farm-fresh food.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Guests typically choose between 11:45 am and 2:00 pm booking slots. The experience begins with a warm welcome from friendly staff who are known for their helpfulness and local knowledge. As it’s limited to small groups—just two participants—you’ll enjoy a relaxed, personalized atmosphere.

The main event is the two seasonal grazing plates designed to highlight the farm’s produce. These plates are shared between two people, allowing you to taste a variety of flavors. Expect a mix of cheeses, cured meats, fresh vegetables, and possibly some dips or spreads—all inspired by what’s currently in season.

While some reviews mention the “very friendly and helpful staff,” others appreciate the way the food is presented amongst the farm surroundings, making each bite feel more connected to the land. During the meal, guests can admire the views of the vineyard, ducks on the dam, and the kitchen garden—a perfect backdrop for a leisurely lunch.

Drinks and Dessert

Each person receives a choice of a glass of estate wine, beer, or cider, which pairs beautifully with the grazing plates. The inclusion of bottled sparkling or still water keeps hydration up without complications. After the main plates, everyone is treated to a farm-made dessert of their choice—be it a slice of cake, a tart, or other sweet delights—adding a satisfying finish to the meal.

The experience also includes farm-roasted coffee or loose leaf tea, which guests say completes the farm-inspired vibe. Reviewers note the coffee is particularly good, adding to the comfort of the midday treat.

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The Value of the Experience

At $99 per group for two people, the price feels quite reasonable, considering the high-quality, farm-fresh food, drinks, and stunning rural views. You’re paying for a cozy, authentic experience rather than a commercialized tasting, which offers genuine value if you’re into rustic charm and local produce.

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The Farm Setting and Atmosphere

Green Olive’s 27-acre farm is a highlight in itself. Visitors love the way the environment transforms into a rustic haven—there are ducks on the dam, sprawling vineyards, and a vibrant kitchen garden, all within sight of your grazing plates.

Reportedly, the views of the pools, vineyards, and surrounding greenery are idyllic, making it an ideal spot for relaxed conversation and photos. The farm’s cool climate and volcanic soil contribute to the quality of the produce and wines, which you’ll taste during your visit.

Accessibility and Group Size

This tour is designed for small groups, limited to just 2 participants, ensuring a private, tailored experience. It’s wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors. The host, who speaks English, is known for being friendly and knowledgeable—adding a personal touch that elevates the experience.

Considerations

While the experience is laid-back and intimate, it’s worth noting that it’s not a full-blown wine tasting tour or a gourmet multi-course affair. The focus is on sampling seasonal farm produce alongside estate wines, making it more of a relaxed lunch rather than a formal tasting session. Also, the bookings are strictly at 11:45 am or 2:00 pm, so plan your day accordingly.

The Reviews: Authentic Perspectives

One recent guest from the UK, Rebecca, rated the experience a full 5 out of 5, praising the idyllic views of the pond and vineyards. She also appreciated the friendly staff, noting she would recommend it to friends in the area. Her comments highlight how the scenery and warmth of the staff can elevate the experience beyond just the food.

Another reviewer mentions the delicious grazing plates and the farm’s charming environment, making it clear that the combination of food, scenery, and hospitality creates a memorable outing. The fact that it’s dog-friendly is a bonus for pet owners, with some guests bringing their pups along to enjoy the farm vibe.

Why Choose This Experience?

This experience is ideal for couples or small groups looking for a peaceful, farm-based lunch in Victoria’s wine country. If you enjoy local, seasonal food served in a scenic setting, and want to combine a bit of farm life with good wine, it’s a worthwhile choice. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate authentic, intimate experiences rather than large, commercial tastings.

It’s also a great option for dog owners seeking a pet-friendly outing where both humans and pups can relax. The two-hour duration makes it a perfect midday activity without feeling rushed.

The Sum Up

The Farmers Lunch at Green Olive offers a genuine farm-to-table experience paired with estate wines and lovely scenery. Its small-group format ensures a personal touch, while the focus on seasonal grazing plates makes it a tasty, authentic outing. The inclusion of a dessert and coffee rounds out the visit, making it more of a relaxed, farm-inspired feast.

It’s best suited for lovers of good food, scenic views, and relaxed atmospheres—especially those who appreciate local produce and pet-friendly environments. If you’re looking for a peaceful, beautifully situated farm experience that balances quality, authenticity, and intimate service, this lunch ticks all the boxes.

For a memorable escape into Victoria’s rural charm, this experience offers excellent value and a taste of life on the farm—not to mention some seriously delicious bites.

FAQ

What is included in the Farmers Lunch experience?
You get two grazing plates (of your choice) to share, a glass of estate wine, beer, or cider for each person, a farm-made dessert per person, and coffee or loose leaf tea.

How long does the experience last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, with available slots at 11:45 am and 2:00 pm.

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians?
The grazing plates are inspired by farm produce, but the description mentions cheeses and cured meats, so vegetarians should check with the provider if plant-based options are available.

Is it pet-friendly?
Yes, the farm environment is dog-friendly, making it perfect for pet owners who want to include their dogs in a scenic, relaxed outing.

What is the price?
The experience costs $99 per group, suitable for up to two people, offering good value considering the quality of food and setting.

Is the experience accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, accommodating guests with mobility needs.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if plans change.

Where is it located?
Green Olive at Red Hill is about an hour from Melbourne, situated in the Mornington Peninsula wine region, with stunning views and a peaceful farm atmosphere.

What should I expect in terms of scenery?
Guests can expect views of vineyards, a pond with ducks, a lush kitchen garden, and rolling countryside—ideal for relaxing and taking photos.

Final Thoughts

If slow, farm-fresh food paired with scenic vineyard views sounds like your kind of day, then the Farmers Lunch at Green Olive is well worth considering. It’s a balanced experience combining good company, authentic produce, and stunning surroundings, perfect for a laid-back escape. While it may not satisfy those seeking a full wine tour or gourmet banquet, it offers genuine farm hospitality in a cozy, intimate setting—ideal for a relaxed, memorable day on the Mornington Peninsula.

You can check availability for your dates here: