Less than an hour drive from Melbourne, the Morning Peninsula offer some of the most beautiful wineries, restaurants, and accommodation in the country. The traditional Aussie warmth mixes with European charm, all wrapped in a coastal living environment where the food and wine meet the sea to offer one of the great regional wine escapes.
The first winery appeared in 1972 with the planting the Elgee Park vineyard, while the first commercial winery appeared in 1975 called Main Ridge Estate and they are a jewel in this regions crown still today. There are now over 50 cellar doors, 100 wineries and 200 vineyards in the region, producing some of the countries most exciting cool climate wines.
The top dog in the Peninsula is the pinot noir. They tend to be very bright and elegant with perfumed red fruits, florals, dried herbs, and spice. But don't overlook the chardonnay as they tend to be just as stylish and sophisticated as the pinots. Pinot gris/grigio was brought in and mastered by Kathleen Quealy and Kevin McCarthy, and since the varietal has never looked back becoming a firm favourite with the public. Finally, cool climate shiraz/syrah has successfully made this region its home offering a real alternative to those who prefer brighter and lighter styles.