UNIQUE EXPERIENCES CRIB POINT

Elan Vineyard and Winery was established in 1985. The name Elan was inspired by their desire to produce premium wine made with flair from grape varieties both classic and unusual. They make estate grown, hand crafted, small quantities of special wines. Located on the Mornington Peninsula in Bittern, Elan Vineyard and Winery is the perfect place to sit back and enjoy the views while sipping on beautiful wines. The Wines they specialise in are Riesling, Chardonnay,Gamay, Merlot, Cabernet Merlot, Shiraz. All at reasonable prices. There is a playground with a cubby over a sandpit and a slide. There is a grassed area for ball games. Gas barbecue facilities are on-site, picnic tables, rotunda overlooking the vineyard, coffee and tea making facilities. "2009 is the thirteenth vintage of Elan Vineyard's exceptionally good Gamay which is a light, dry and fruity red wine made using the primary grape variety of Beaujolais in France. The wine is quite unique, it is light-bodied but surprisingly earthy and is terrific slightly chilled at lunch." Stuart Gregor

The grand red-brick entrance of Willow Creek Vineyard denotes the vineyard that was planted in 1989. Predominantly pinot noir and chardonnay, it has been hand tended by the same viticulturist since the beginning. His partnership with renowned cool climate winemaker Geraldine McFaul results in some of the most elegantly crafted wines in the region. At the end of the meandering driveway is the original homestead, McCormick House. Built in 1876, it creates an historical context for the property and sits opposite the entrance to the stylish cellar door and restaurant. Designed by Carr Group, its ambient bluestone and oak interior is a calm, cool oasis in summer and warmed by a crackling fire in winter. And with a purpose built tasting room in the barrel hall, touring groups can discover the intricacies of winemaking in an intimate and dedicated setting. Beyond the cellar door is Salix, with its captivating vineyard view. The bright bistro has a sunny deck for summer dining, while the sophisticated restaurant is a cosy escape in all seasons. 'See how far the Mornington Peninsula wine scene has travelled from its origins as a 'hobby' winemaking region at Willow Creek. Beautifully manicured grounds and imposing old buildings set the scene for the superbly appointed, stylish Salix Restaurant, Bistro, and separate cellar door. An extended deck overlooks a picture-postcard scene of a beautiful, tree-enclosed valley, and carefully tended vineyards spread around. Ex-Stonier's winemaker Geraldine McFaul presides over a range of outstanding benchmark wines, all worthy of the estate's quality credentials.' Ralph Kyte-Powell.

She is a one-off original, he is a clever winemaker of the highest order and together husband and wife team, Kathleen Quealy and Kevin McCarthy, like to shake things up big time. Their subversive winemaking is positively electrifying. (As described in the Gourmet Traveller Wine. April/May 2016). 

Their property is very laid back Old Balnarring, converted from orchard in the 1980’s, their vineyard is amongst the oldest on the Peninsula. Inside their winery cellar door you can taste soft voluptuous Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir alongside cutting edge natural wines Turbul Friulano and Kathleen’s favourites Pinot Grigio, Pobblebonk – a field blend and Rageous – their Sangiovese blend. As well as their own vineyard, these winemakers operate five premium vineyards in their region, all with a commitment to sustainable farming and allowing full creative reign.

Their tasting style is welcoming, informative and is a true exploration of Mornington Peninsula’s wine region.