The hidden-gem wineries of Mount Gambier you need to know about

Tahlia Pritchard Tahlia Pritchard
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Explore the lush family-owned vineyards and intimate cellars in one of Australia’s emerging wine regions, known for its smooth and tasty pinot noir.

South Australia may be well known for the Barossa when it comes to wine, but Mount Gambier, located in the heart of the Limestone Coast in South Australia, is quickly building itself up as an exciting premium wine region. From its smooth whites to fragrant reds, teamed with the spectacular countryside and lake-filled volcanoes, Mount Gambier is a picture-perfect place for an indulgent wine tour.

From family-run wineries to boutique vineyards, Mount Gambier may be Australia’s youngest wine region but due to the climate of the region and the rich volcanic soils, it’s becoming more well-known for producing prized wines, especially with its pinot noir varieties.

Here’s a guide to get you started on where you should be sipping when you visit the stunning Mount Gambier region.

1. Herbert Vineyard

Renowned for its smooth and silky pinot noir, Herbert Vineyard  resides close to the centre of Mount Gambier, a mere five-minute drive from the city centre. Not only is the wine fragrant and light, but it also pairs perfectly with the delicious fresh bread served alongside olive oil from the family’s olive farm.

Bonus for families travelling in the region – the vineyard also has a maze for the kids to frolic in while you sample some of the best wine not only in the region, but in the state.

an aerial shot of Herbert Vineyard
Herbert Vineyard spans diverse patches of verdant greenery. (Image: David Herbert)

2. Noski Wines

A hidden gem in the Mount Gambier winery scene, this boutique winery  is home to some delicious, well-valued wine. Located on the slopes of the stunning Blue Lake, the fertile volcanic soils have benefited the array of premium wines on offer, including chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, and of course, another stellar pinot noir variety. All the grapes are hand-picked, which means it’s only the highest quality in each bottle. While it’s less than a 10-minute drive from the heart of Mount Gambier, make sure to call and book ahead for a tasting session – the reviews will entice you in, and the generous tasting pours will definitely make your experience a merry one.

3. Square Mile Estate

A smaller vineyard but still a must-visit, Square Mile Estate is a boutique winery  that lays on the outskirts of Mount Gambier, a 10-minute drive from the main area. The winery boasts a warm and cosy atmosphere, with friendly service that tops off the beautiful wine perfectly. You’ll leave with a fuzzy feeling, big smile, and, of course, a couple of bottles of delicious red to enjoy later.

4. Caroline Hills

Producing small-batch wines using minimal intervention and utilising hand plunging and pumping, Caroline Hills  is open Saturday and Sunday afternoons, and by appointment for tasting and sales.

When visiting, you can also enjoy a beautiful tasting plate to go along with your wine experience. Located 15 minutes from the main Mount Gambier centre, the vineyard focuses on wines from their pinot noir and pinot gris grapes and all wines are bottled with low sulphur.

5. Haig Vineyard

Established in 1982, Haig’s was the first commercial winery in the Mount Gambier region, and is well-known for its crisp, late-harvest chardonnay, cab sav, and pinot noir. Open daily from 11am to 5pm, Haig’s is located near local attractions such as the Blue Lake, Piccaninnie Ponds Conversation Park, and the magnificent Umpherston Sinkhole, so stop by for a drop before exploring some of Mount Gambier’s most awe-inspiring attractions.

For more foodie tips when visiting Mount Gambier, read our guide to the best Mount Gambier restaurants.
Tahlia Pritchard

Tahlia Pritchard

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This is Mornington Peninsula’s most indulgent itinerary

    Kellie Floyd Kellie Floyd
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    The Mornington Peninsula blends vineyards, galleries, golf and delicious finds for an unforgettable getaway that indulges all penchants. 

    Just over an hour from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula blends coast and country in a way that feels effortlessly indulgent. It’s a region where vineyard views meet acclaimed dining, art and culture is never far from the sea, and where hot springs bubble alongside rolling fairways. Whether your escape is a long lunch, an immersive art trail or a round of golf, the Mornington Peninsula has an itinerary to match. And there’s always a glass of good local pinot waiting for you at the end of the day.  

    A creative trail through the Peninsula 

    The Mornington Peninsula is a haven for artists and creatives. Its coastal views and rolling landscapes have long been a source of inspiration. Stay at the historical InterContinental Sorrento , a grand hotel established in 1875, recently renovated to blend heritage charm with contemporary elegance. With curated art lining the hotel’s corridors and rooms, you could spend hours simply wandering the halls, studying the walls. 

    Pt Leo Estate outdoor gallery
    Wander around Pt. Leo Estate’s outdoor gallery. (Image: Visit Victoria/Jesse Hisco)

    If looking for an outdoor gallery with sea views, head to Pt. Leo Estate , a landscaped vineyard home to a sculpture park featuring more than 70 large-scale works by both local and international artists, all easily accessible by connecting paths. After strolling through the vineyards, there are three dining options: fine dining at Laura, a relaxed meal at Pt. Leo Restaurant or a vino at the Wine Terrace. For something more hands-on, sign up for the Sip & Sketch experience. And if you book directly into the elegant Lancemore at Lindenderry Red Hill , you’ll enjoy free access to the sculpture park.  

    food at Pt Estate
    Pt Leo Estate boasts three elegant dining venues. (Image: Visit Victoria/Two Palms/Arianna Harry)

    For those who like their art framed by rolling hills, vines and wetlands, Montalto is the place. More than 30 sculptures are dotted throughout the property. The vineyard offers a formal restaurant and casual tables among the seasonal produce in a setting that feels like Mr. McGregor’s Garden from Peter Rabbit. And there’s always the option to picnic on the lawn.  

    Montalto Vineyard
    Montalto Vineyard is an idyllic setting for afternoon wining and dining. (Image: Visit Victoria/Robyn Lea)

    The Sorrento-Portsea Artists Trail offers a self-guided walk along bush paths and sea cliffs to see the same landscapes that once inspired brushstrokes of some of Australia’s most famous artists. Along the way, interpretive signs share insights into the area’s artistic past. And, if the peninsula’s weather turns a little wild, the region is brimming with galleries, particularly around Flinders, Sorrento and Red Hill. Artisan studios are open by appointment.  

    A feast for food and wine lovers 

    With more than 200 vineyards, around 60 wineries and cellar doors, plus an abundance of breweries, distilleries, orchards and family-run farms spanning generations, the Mornington Peninsula is a playground for food and wine enthusiasts.  

    Cassis Red Hill
    Luxurious stay, Cassis Red Hill.

    The perfect base for a culinary inclined trip is Cassis Red Hill , where luxury accommodation is tucked between grape vines and olive trees. A quiet nod to the fishing village of Cassis in the south of France, this retreat is all about contemporary elegance – crisp linen, sunlit interiors and a private mineral plunge pool. 

    Then, for a stand-out lunch, Green Olive at Red Hill offers a delicious way to enjoy the region. Graze on generous tasting plates with house-made relishes, lamb sausages, local cheese and just-picked garden produce. Pair it with a wine flight or order a picnic hamper to enjoy among the olive grove; there’s a picnic option for your dog, too. And for a playful twist, Green Olive is home to what is believed to be Australia’s only pickleball court set within a vineyard or orchard.  

    Amid the many wineries with open cellar doors, Main Ridge Dairy offers a delicious detour – a goat dairy where you can sample handcrafted cheeses and even meet the resident goats. For a more refined experience, Paringa Estate is one of the peninsula’s most awarded wineries, offering fine dining with sweeping vineyard views and a menu crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.   

    If you’re looking to step outdoors before a lingering lunch, during winter Flinders Truffles offer the chance to join their clever dogs and search for the black gold under oak trees. For an authentic taste of the region, time your visit with one of the Peninsula’s vibrant farmers’ markets.

    From golf days to spa stays 

    Kingswood CountryGolf Club
    Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    With its champion courses, the Peninsula is a dream destination not only for those who love to tee off but for those who enjoy the post-golf wind down. Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club draws keen golfers from around the world, while Peppers Moonah Links Resort is a course that has hosted both a PGA tournament and two Australian Opens. For a true test of skill, The Dunes Golf Links is one of Australia’s top public courses. Each golf course offers accommodation, and staying onsite means maximum convenience, especially at The Dunes, where premium rooms have you sleeping right next to the fairway. Off-course indulgence is close at hand, too.  

    Alba Thermal Springs& Spa
    Soaking at Alba Thermal Springs & Spa. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Peninsula Hot Springs and Alba Thermal Springs are just next door, where thermal waters drawn from geothermal mineral springs deep underground provide the ultimate recovery after a day of perfecting your swing. These award-winning wellness sanctuaries offer everything from bathing pools to private plunges and spa treatments. 

    Jetty Road Brewery
    Jetty Road Brewery.

    After sinking the last ball, and the 19th hole beckons, the Peninsula serves up just as many dining options as it does golf courses. Just minutes away and right on the beach, Jetty Road Brewery  is a laid-back spot perfect for a round of beers and typical pub fare. For something a little elevated, book a table at Epicurean . Here, a glass of local red pairs beautifully with handmade pastas and woodfired pizza, all served in a historical coolstore and packing shed dating back more than a century.