Mornington Peninsula Wine Day Tour

Exploring the Mornington Peninsula Wine Day Tour

Imagine spending a day outside Melbourne, surrounded by rolling vineyards, panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay and even glimpses of the Southern Ocean. Priced at just over $210 per person, this 10-hour small-group tour offers an intimate and relaxed way to experience some of Australia’s most celebrated wineries. Led by knowledgeable guides—like Paul, Shane, or Cam—you’ll visit renowned venues such as Yabby Lake Winery, Crittenden Estate, and Stoniers Vineyard. The tour includes a hearty, locally-sourced lunch at Merricks General Store, paired with a glass of wine, ensuring you get a true taste of the region.

What we love about this experience is how it balances educational wine tastings with breathtaking scenery. The small group size means personalized attention, and you’ll get plenty of time at each stop to truly savor the wines without feeling rushed. Plus, the convenience of pickup included takes the hassle out of transportation—no need to worry about driving after sampling some of the best vintages Australia has to offer.

One possible consideration is the price, which might seem steep for some, but considering the quality of wineries, the included lunch, and the personalized approach, it delivers great value. This tour is perfect for those who appreciate authentic wine experiences and want a relaxed way to explore the region without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads.

This tour suits travelers who love discovering new wines, enjoy scenic drives, and prefer small groups for more genuine interactions. Whether you’re an avid wine connoisseur or just looking to sample some top drops in a beautiful setting, this experience ticks many boxes.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small groups (max 10) mean more attention from your guide.
• Diverse Wineries: Visit four different vineyards, each offering unique flavors and styles.
• Scenic Views: Enjoy vistas of Port Phillip Bay and on clear days, even Melbourne’s skyline.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Shane, Cam, or Paul are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Included Lunch: Savor a hearty main course at Merricks General Store, paired with local wine.
• Convenience: Pickup and drop-off included, with air-conditioned transport.

The Experience in Detail

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at 8:30 am, you’ll be picked up in Melbourne and whisked away in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle—likely a private van for your small group. The drive itself offers beautiful glimpses of the countryside, setting the tone for a relaxing day.

Yabby Lake Vineyard is your first stop, where you can enjoy tasting their highly acclaimed wines while soaking in vineyard views. The reviews often highlight this spot for its quality offerings and picturesque setting. Expect to spend about an hour here, sampling wines that have earned rave reviews from visitors.

Next, the tour moves to Crittenden Estate, known for its diverse range, including styles from Italy and the Iberian Peninsula. Here, you’ll have about an hour to explore and taste a broad selection of Peninsula favorites. Reviewers frequently mention how engaging and informative guides make these tastings not just about drinking wine, but learning about what makes each style unique.

The third stop, Quealy Winemakers, offers a playful nod to Italian wine styles. You’ll encounter a wide array of wines complemented by a well-prepared cheese platter. This venue tends to impress visitors with its impressive range and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere highlighted in multiple reviews.

A highlight of the day is the visit to Merricks General Store, a beautifully restored 1920s building that oozes character. Here, you’ll enjoy a two-hour stop for lunch, which includes a main course from their a la carte menu, a glass of wine, and coffee. Reviewers often praise this stop for its delicious food and the chance to relax amid charming surroundings.

After lunch, your journey continues to Ten Minutes by Tractor Cellar Door for a final tasting session. This venue is renowned for its high-quality wines, and many reviews note the exceptional knowledge of staff and the intimate tasting experience.

The day wraps up with a brief visit to Arthur’s Seat State Park, the highest point on the peninsula. Expect stunning views over the bay and, on a clear day, of Melbourne’s skyline. This short stop allows for some photo-taking and a breath of fresh air before returning to Melbourne.

What to Expect at Each Winery

• Yabby Lake: Known for its elegant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this vineyard offers tastings in a scenic setting that visitors find charming and memorable.
• Crittenden Estate: A wide-ranging selection, including wines from Europe, making it ideal for those wanting to compare styles and understand regional differences.
• Quealy Winemakers: Their impressive variety and cheese platter make for a relaxed, flavorful experience, with many noting the guide’s engaging commentary.
• Stoniers Vineyard: The final stop provides a tasting of their acclaimed wines, often described as a fitting end to a well-curated tour.

The Lunch Experience

One of the tour’s standout moments is the lunch at Merricks General Store. Many reviews mention the excellent quality of the food—like pasta with crab meat or other main courses—paired beautifully with local wines. The two-hour window gives you plenty of time to enjoy your meal and reflect on the morning’s tastings without feeling rushed.

The Guide and Group Size

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—like Paul, Shane, or Cam—for their friendly approach and wealth of insights. From explaining wine flavor profiles to sharing local history, they make the day more engaging and educational. The group size is capped at 10, which means fewer crowds and more personalized service, something many reviewers highly appreciate.

Transportation and Comfort

Your journey takes place in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a smooth ride between stops. The pickup service from Melbourne makes logistics straightforward, leaving you free to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Pricing and Value

While $210 might sound like a significant investment, reviews suggest it offers good value for the experience. The inclusions—multiple tastings, a hearty lunch, bottled water, coffee/tea, and snacks—make it a comprehensive package. The personalized attention, small group setting, and quality venues justify the cost for many travelers.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who appreciate wine and scenic views, enjoy learning about regional varieties, and prefer a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. If you’re keen to avoid the hassle of driving and want to explore some of Victoria’s top wineries with a knowledgeable guide, this tour checks all those boxes.

It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic, family-owned wineries and want to experience the region’s diversity in style and flavor. Those new to wine tasting will find it accessible and educational, while seasoned connoisseurs will appreciate the range and quality on offer.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 10 hours, starting with pickup at 8:30 am and ending back in Melbourne later that evening.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, your transport is included in the price, and it’s a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle suitable for small groups.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers all wine tastings, a main course lunch at Merricks General Store, bottled water, coffee and tea, snacks, and all activities at each venue.

Are there any additional costs?
You might want to budget for personal purchases at the wineries, but everything else, including tastings and lunch, is included.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the main focus is on wine tasting, non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenic drives, views at Arthur’s Seat, and the lunch. However, tastings are part of the experience.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 54 days ahead, indicating that it’s popular and best to reserve early.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 10, which allows for a more personalized and relaxed experience.

The Bottom Line

For anyone wanting to sample top-tier wines while enjoying stunning coastal views, this Mornington Peninsula tour delivers a well-rounded, personal experience. The combination of knowledgeable guides, diverse wineries, and delicious regional food makes it a standout choice for wine lovers and scenic explorers alike.

If you’re looking for a value-packed day that combines education, relaxation, and beautiful scenery, then this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially ideal for small groups who value personalized service and authentic experiences over large, commercial tasting rooms.

In the end, this tour offers a genuine taste of Victoria’s wine country, making it a memorable highlight of any Melbourne visit. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a refined day out, this journey into the Mornington Peninsula’s vinicultural treasures is sure to satisfy.