Estate to Plate: Montalto Vineyard Gourmet Lunch and Wine-Tasting Tour

An Authentic Taste of Mornington Peninsula: Estate to Plate at Montalto Vineyard

Imagine a peaceful vineyard estate just an hour from Melbourne, where you can stroll through lush kitchen gardens, orchards, and olive groves, tasting and learning about the ingredients that elevate the local cuisine. This is exactly what you get with the Estate to Plate tour at Montalto Vineyard, priced at $141.68 per person and lasting around three hours. Led by knowledgeable staff, this experience combines a guided estate tour, private wine tasting, and a delicious 3-course lunch paired with wines that truly complement each bite.

What we appreciate most is the intimate setting, with a maximum of 4 travelers. It feels more like visiting friends’ farm than a commercial tour, but with the professionalism and expertise of a well-run operation. Two standout features are the focused private wine tasting of single vineyard wines and the fresh, seasonal ingredients in your meal, sourced directly from the estate’s gardens and groves.

One consideration is that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation from Melbourne. This tour suits travelers who enjoy authentic, small-group experiences with a focus on local food and wine. If you’re keen to see the workings of a family-owned estate and taste award-winning wines in a scenic setting, this could be perfect.

Key Points

• Authentic Estate Experience: Visit a family-run vineyard, orchards, and gardens.
• Expert-Guided Tour: Learn about cool climate wines and estate operations.
• Private Tasting: Sample a selection of premium, single vineyard wines.
• Gourmet Meal: Enjoy a 3-course lunch paired skillfully with matching wines.
• Flexible & Intimate: Small group size enhances the experience.
• Leisure Time: Explore wetlands and sculpture collections at your own pace.

The Journey through Montalto’s Scenic Estate

The tour begins at the Montalto estate in Red Hill South, where you’ll meet your guide at the designated meeting point at 10:30 am. From the outset, the emphasis on family ownership is clear, and you can expect your guide to share stories about how the estate combines vineyard cultivation, olive growing, and culinary arts.

The guided estate tour is a highlight, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the wine-making process. You’ll see the vineyards that produce the estate’s award-winning cold climate wines—a key reason why Montalto’s wines are so highly regarded. The staff explains how the estate’s kitchen garden, orchard, and olive trees contribute to the restaurant’s reputation for fresh, seasonal dishes. We loved the way the guide described the estate’s integrated approach to farming and culinary arts, making the experience feel both practical and inspiring.

During the tour, you’ll have opportunities to ask questions about how the estate manages its organic practices and the specifics of their wine production. The estate’s setting is stunning, with views over rolling vineyards, wetlands, and sculptures scattered throughout the grounds. This part of the experience is great for those who enjoy knowing how their food and wine are made, and for anyone interested in sustainable farming practices.

Private Wine Tasting: A Focused Look at Montalto’s Wines

After the estate tour, you’ll settle into a private tasting led by one of the estate’s expert staff. Here, you’ll sample single vineyard wines, which means you’re tasting wines that truly showcase the unique terroir of Montalto. The tasting is structured, allowing you to appreciate the differences between varieties and vintages, all with the scenic estate as your backdrop.

One visitor noted, “The wines were exceptional, especially the reds and the crisp whites. It was a real treat to understand what makes Montalto’s wines special.” This part of the tour is particularly valuable for wine enthusiasts who want to deepen their knowledge of cool climate varietals, such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

You’ll also learn about the estate’s approach to wine-making and tasting notes, which can help you pick out your favorites and understand what makes these wines suited for pairing with food. The private nature of the tasting means you get tailored attention—more time to ask questions and savor every sip.

A Gourmet 3-Course Lunch Paired with Local Flavors

Following the wine tasting, it’s time for the highlight—your 3-course meal in the winery’s restaurant. The menu emphasizes seasonal, local ingredients, many of which come directly from the estate’s own gardens and groves. Expect dishes that are simple yet refined, with flavors that celebrate the best of Mornington Peninsula’s produce.

The meal is thoughtfully paired with wines from the estate, allowing you to appreciate how the flavors of the food and wine complement each other. One guest mentioned that the dishes were “delicious, with fresh ingredients that really brought out the wines’ character.” Whether you prefer vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options, the restaurant is accommodating—just be sure to specify dietary needs when booking.

This part of the experience offers a leisurely, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for savoring each course and discussing the estate’s food philosophy. You’ll have ample time to enjoy your meal and take in the scenic views, which include wetlands, sculptures, and the estate’s lush surroundings.

Exploring at Your Own Pace

After lunch, you’re free to explore the estate further. Many visitors enjoy wandering through the wetlands, admiring the sculpture collection, or simply soaking in the peaceful landscape. The estate’s grounds are designed to be inviting and photogenic, making it a great spot for a leisurely stroll or some quiet reflection.

While the tour is designed to be comprehensive, it’s worth noting the small group size—a maximum of 4 travelers—which makes it feel intimate and personalized. This can be a real advantage if you’re seeking a more meaningful connection with your guide and the estate, but it also means booking well in advance is wise, as it’s popular.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Duration: Approximately 3 hours, starting at 10:30 am.
• Price: Around $142 per person, which covers the estate tour, private wine tasting, and a 3-course lunch.
• Availability: Bookings typically need to be made 24 days in advance.
• Transportation: No hotel pickup or drop-off—plan to arrange your own transport from Melbourne or nearby.
• Dietary Options: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals are available if specified at booking.
• Age Restriction: Minimum age of 18, considering wine tasting.
• Physical Demand: Moderate; expect some walking around the estate grounds.
• Extras: Additional wines can be purchased, but no additional beverages are included in the package.

Authentic Experience with Value and Charm

The value here is rooted in the personalized nature of the experience. You’re paying for a comprehensive look behind the scenes of a working estate, paired with an excellent selection of wines and a locally sourced meal. The small group size ensures you’re not lost in the crowd and can really engage with your guide and the estate.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Mornington Peninsula’s wine and food culture. It’s an ideal choice for those who want more than just a tasting, seeking a meaningful connection with local producers, beautiful scenery, and authentic flavors.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you are a wine lover, eager to explore unique cool climate varietals while enjoying a scenic estate, this experience will appeal. Foodies who enjoy seasonal, farm-to-table dishes in a quiet, beautiful setting will also find plenty to love. It’s perfect for small groups or couples looking for an intimate, educational outing, and those interested in sustainable farming will appreciate the estate’s practices.

However, if you prefer large-group tours or require transport from Melbourne, this might not be the best fit. Also, if you’re not a fan of wine, the experience may be less suitable, although the estate’s scenery and food alone are still enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to make your own arrangements to reach the estate, which is located in Red Hill South.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 3 hours, starting at 10:30 am, including the estate tour, wine tasting, and lunch.

Can I customize my meal?
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available if you advise at the time of booking.

What is the age limit?
Participants must be 18 or older to participate, as the tour involves wine tasting.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor touring; consider sun protection or rain gear depending on the weather.

Are there any additional costs?
You might wish to purchase extra wines or souvenirs; these are not included in the tour price.

Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, and the estate sources many ingredients from its gardens.

Can I visit if I’m not a wine drinker?
While the main focus is wine, the estate’s gardens, scenery, and food are enjoyable even without drinking wine.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, given the small group size and popularity, booking 24 days ahead is recommended to secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

The Estate to Plate tour at Montalto Vineyard offers a well-balanced blend of scenic beauty, authentic estate experiences, and excellent wine and food. It’s perfect for those who want a deeper understanding of local wine production, combined with a meal that celebrates seasonal ingredients. The small group setting makes for a relaxed, personalized experience that’s ideal for couples, foodies, and small groups seeking intimacy and quality.

While it requires some planning for transportation, the experience’s quality and authenticity make it well worth the effort. You’ll leave with a richer appreciation for Mornington Peninsula’s culinary culture and the passion behind a family-owned vineyard.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a day of meaningful tasting and scenic beauty, this tour delivers an engaging, memorable outing that showcases the best of what the region has to offer.