Planning a trip to Victoria’s renowned Mornington Peninsula and craving a taste of its best wine and food? Look no further than the Ten Minutes by Tractor: Fine Wine & Gastronomy Experience. For around $445 per person, you’ll spend 4.5 hours exploring award-winning vineyards, tasting premium wines, and indulging in a gourmet multi-course meal in a celebrated restaurant. This tour offers a perfect balance of education, relaxation, and deliciousness—ideal for those who want to deepen their appreciation for fine wine while enjoying a memorable dining experience.
Two things we love about this experience are the behind-the-scenes access to the vineyard and cellar—giving you a real sense of what it takes to produce top-tier wines—and the pairing of a meticulously curated tasting menu with back vintage wines. It’s a refined way to appreciate the craftsmanship behind the wine and food you’re enjoying. One minor consideration is that the tour is designed for adults; pregnant women and children under 18 are not suited to participate. This experience suits couples, wine enthusiasts, and food lovers seeking a sophisticated, authentic taste of Victoria’s wine culture.
Key Points
- Comprehensive Vineyard Tour: Walk among vines and learn about vineyard cultivation and wine production.
- Expert-Guided Tastings: Enjoy a guided tasting of premium and single vineyard wines at the Cellar Door.
- Cellar Discovery: Explore the underground cellar while sipping Blanc de Blancs, gaining insight into wine aging and storage.
- Gourmet Dining: Savor a multi-course tasting menu in a two-hatted restaurant paired with vintage wines.
- Personalized Gift: Receive a bottle of 10X Pinot Noir as a memento of your experience.
- Small Group Intimacy: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
An In-Depth Look at the Experience
If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Main Ridge
Starting at the Cellar Door
Your journey begins in the award-winning Ten Minutes by Tractor Cellar Door, where your guide—likely a friendly expert—will introduce you to some of Australia’s finest wines. Expect to taste premium and single vineyard wines, which means you’re getting a true flavor of the vineyard’s unique terroir. The comments from previous visitors reveal appreciation for the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the wines: “We loved the way our guide explained the nuances of each vintage, making the tasting both educational and enjoyable.”
Exploring the Vineyard
Next, you’ll take a tour through the Gabrielle vineyard, a high-density planting that’s part of what makes this wine so special. Here, you’ll meander among the vines, soaking up views of the rolling landscape and learning about the nuances of grape cultivation. The attention to detail in vineyard management shows in the quality of the wines, which many guests note as exceptional.
One visitor mentioned, “Walking through the vines made us appreciate the effort behind every bottle, and the scenery alone is worth the trip.” This part of the experience is not just about tasting but understanding the passion and precision involved in growing top-tier grapes.
The Underground Cellar and Blanc de Blancs
A highlight for many is the exploration of the underground restaurant cellar. You’ll enjoy a glass of Blanc de Blancs, made in the traditional style, while marveling at the cool, dark environment that keeps the wines perfect for aging. It’s a rare opportunity to see where the magic happens behind the scenes, and many visitors find this a memorable peek into wine storage.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Gourmet Tasting Menu
The final part of your tour involves a dining experience in the two-hatted restaurant, which has received accolades for its inventive cuisine and attention to detail. The tasting menu is carefully paired with back vintage wines and wines from the cellar, allowing you to see how wine and food complement each other perfectly.
Previous guests rave about the quality and presentation of the dishes: “Each course was a revelation, and the wine pairings elevated the flavors to a whole new level.” The focus on local ingredients and innovative preparation makes this a true highlight for anyone who appreciates fine dining.
While you're exploring Main Ridge, here are other experiences we've looked into
The Personal Touch and Takeaway
To finish, you’ll receive a personalized bottle of 10X Pinot Noir, a thoughtful gift that captures the essence of your journey. Many reviewers mention how this keepsake allows them to remember their special day at home and continue discovering the wines of Victoria.
Practical Details & What to Expect
This experience is designed for a small group of no more than six people, ensuring a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. The tour lasts about 4.5 hours, typically scheduled in the morning, making it a perfect half-day activity. The tour is in English, with a live guide who will share insights and answer questions throughout.
You should come prepared with comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and sunscreen, especially if the weather is sunny—that region’s views are stunning and worth enjoying outdoors. Since the experience involves walking among vines and exploring underground cellars, mobility is helpful but not strenuous.
Note that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or anyone under 18, due to alcohol consumption. Also, cancellation is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is This Tour Worth It?
At $445, this isn’t a casual activity; it’s a well-curated, immersive day that offers great value for those interested in wine and gastronomy. When you consider the high-quality tastings, the behind-the-scenes access, and the gourmet meal, it’s a comprehensive way to learn about and enjoy Victoria’s wine culture.
Many visitors find the personalized experience and stunning vineyard views particularly memorable. While the price may seem steep, it encapsulates a luxurious, educational, and delicious experience that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.
Who Would Love This Experience?
This tour is ideal for wine lovers eager to expand their knowledge and for foodies wanting to indulge in gourmet cuisine paired with excellent wines. It also suits couples celebrating a special occasion or anyone looking for an authentic, behind-the-scenes glimpse of Victoria’s wine-making process.
If you’re after a relaxed, intimate experience with quality at the forefront, this tour hits the mark. However, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of walking and who appreciate a refined, adult-only environment.
Final Thoughts
The Ten Minutes by Tractor: Fine Wine & Gastronomy Experience offers a well-rounded look at Victoria’s premium wine and culinary scene. It’s a high-value journey blending educational vineyard walks, expert tastings, underground cellar visits, and luxurious dining into a single memorable outing. The limited group size ensures personalized attention, making the experience extra special.
While it’s a bit of a splurge, the quality of the wines, the beautiful scenery, and the gourmet meal justify the cost for most travelers who want to indulge a little. This tour is perfect for those seeking an authentic, in-depth taste of Victoria’s wine country—a day that will surely leave a lasting impression.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 4.5 hours, usually scheduled in the morning, offering enough time to enjoy every part without feeling rushed.
What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers a behind-the-scenes tour, vineyard walk, wine tastings, cellar discovery, a gourmet tasting menu, paired wines—including vintage selections—and a bottle of 10X Pinot Noir as a gift.
Is transportation provided?
The description doesn’t specify transportation, so you might need to arrange your own transport to and from the venue.
Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Since the tour involves wine tastings, it’s not suitable for non-drinkers or pregnant women.
Is this experience suitable for children?
No, children under 18 are not permitted due to alcohol consumption and the adult nature of the experience.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking among the vines and in the cellar. A sun hat and sunscreen are advisable if the weather is sunny.
Is there any flexibility with cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans change.
If you’re after an authentic, educational, and indulgent taste of Victoria’s wine country, the Ten Minutes by Tractor experience offers a refined and memorable day. It’s a splendid choice for couples, wine aficionados, and gourmets alike—providing a genuine connection to the region’s best wines and cuisine.
You can check availability for your dates here: