A Journey from Classroom to Vineyard. Lindsay McCall, a former geography teacher, planted his first vines in 1985. By 1996, he had left teaching to fully immerse himself in winemaking, driven by a passion sparked by a taste of a 1980 Seville Estate Shiraz. His hands-on approach and relentless pursuit of quality have made Paringa Estate synonymous with exceptional wines. The home vineyard may be modest in size, but the quality of its fruit, combined with select regional vineyards, produces wines of unmatched complexity and character.

Paringa Estate is renowned for its dense and rich Pinot Noir, and Shiraz with spicy herbal notes and concentrated fruit flavours. The Chardonnay and Pinot Gris are equally compelling, full of varietal flavour and complexity. James Halliday has consistently rated Paringa Estate with five stars, highlighting the exceptional gift Lindsay has for winemaking.

Paringa Estate Pinot Noir is dense and rich while the Shiraz has spicy herbal notes and concentrated fruit flavours. The Chardonnay and Pinot Gris are full of varietal flavour and complexity.  James Halliday rates Paringa Estate five out of five wine glasses in the new edition of the James Halliday Australian Wine Companion:  ‘Lindsay McCall has shown an absolutely exceptional gift for winemaking across a range of styles, but with immensely complex Pinot Noir and Shiraz leading the way. The wines have an unmatched level of success in the wine shows and competitions Paringa Estate is able to enter, the limitation being the relatively small production of the top wines in the portfolio.’

The estate’s wine portfolio is divided into three distinct series:

• Peninsula Series Wines: Sourced from leased vineyards and select sites around the Mornington Peninsula, these wines emphasise lively fruit flavours and the region’s distinctive style.
• Estate Series Wines: Made from the low-yielding, mature vines on the estate, these wines are aged in new French oak barrels, combining powerful fruit flavours with meticulous winemaking to create the unique Paringa “style.”
• Single Vineyard Series Wines: The pinnacle of Paringa’s portfolio, these wines come from the oldest blocks in the home vineyard. Only made in exceptional vintages, these wines are a pure expression of Paringa’s unique terroir.

The Paringa Estate Restaurant, opened in 1999, offers an exquisite dining experience with expansive vineyard and valley views. The dining room, with its rich timber ceiling and wood fire, provides warmth and intimacy for lunch and evening dining, while the deck captures the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Under the leadership of Head Chef Nick McGonigal, who brings an impressive resume including stints at The Ledbury, Bentley Bar & Restaurant, and Society, the restaurant’s menu is a celebration of the region’s bounty. McGonigal’s philosophy revolves around respect for nature, place, and seasonality, sourcing beef from Gippsland, pork from the Western Plains, mussels from Mt Martha, and cod from Lakes Entrance. He even forages for wild mushrooms and sea herbs, incorporating these unique ingredients into his dishes.

Dishes are always seasonal and change but the following are indicative of what your tastebuds can expect to devour – standouts in the past included grilled saganaki with caviar and preserved lemon oil, drunken chicken ribs with hot mint, duck fat potatoes, wakame spiced calamari with wasabi dipping sauce, and truffle and parmesan croquettes to name but a few. For heartier appetites, the main menu offers beef eye fillet steak, pork belly, and nduja stuffed chicken, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Lindsay’s journey from a wine enthusiast to the owner of one of Australia’s top wineries is nothing short of inspirational. His first vintage in 1987 may have been modest, but it set the stage for decades of award-winning wines and culinary excellence. The first commercial vintage was in 1988, and by 1996, Lindsay was able to devote himself full-time to winemaking.

His first major accolade came in 1990 when his Shiraz won gold at the Yarra Valley Wine Show. This was just the beginning of a cascade of awards, culminating in 2007 when Paringa Estate was named “Best Winery in Australia” in the James Halliday Wine Companion.

Today, the winery continues to thrive under the watchful eye of Lindsay and his son, Jamie McCall, who has followed in his father’s footsteps to become head winemaker. Jamie, with his international experience and passion for viticulture, is poised to carry the legacy of Paringa Estate well into the future.

Whether you’re there for a wine tasting at the beautifully refurbished cellar door, a delightful meal at the award-winning restaurant, or to celebrate a special occasion among the vines, Paringa Estate promises an experience that engages all the senses. The cellar door offers a chance to taste the currently available wines and learn about Paringa’s grape growing and winemaking processes, often with Lindsay himself on hand to share his knowledge and passion.

Paringa Estate hosts stunning events year-round and the estate’s combination of exceptional wine, fine food, and breathtaking views makes it a premier destination for both locals and visitors.

Paringa Estate is located at 44 Paringa Road, Red Hill South. For more information and to book your visit, check out their website above.

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Jazz, Food & Wine Ticket includes entry into the winery, live jazz entertainment for the day, slow cooked winter meals (vegetarian option also available) plus an etched Paringa Estate ‘Plumm’ wine glass to keep, with a glass of your favourite Paringa Estate ‘Peninsula’ wine.

11am Wine Bar Opens

12-2pm Chef’s Winery Kitchen Open

12:30–3:30pm Live Jazz

4pm Event Concludes

This year’s event is strictly limited to just 150 tickets to ensure a relaxed, safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Tickets will be available at the door only if not sold out in advance. Booking early is recommended.

A small number of children’s tickets are also available, which include a kids’ meal.

Tickets

$75 Adult

$35 Children

Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon of jazz, blues and roots with some of Melbourne’s most celebrated musicians.

The legendary Bob Sedergreen, inducted into the Bell Awards Jazz Hall of Fame, brings his signature touch on keys. Joining him is Paul Williamson, renowned saxophonist, vocalist, and bandleader who is a true master of jazz and blues. Michael Jordan, long-time drummer and vocalist with Paul’s iconic combo, lays down the groove, while Jon Chidgey brings decades of experience on electric bass, including years alongside Bob in the Stonnington Jazz Showband.

Topping off this stellar line-up is our special guest, Kerri Simpson who is the undisputed queen of blues, soul, and gospel with a rich catalogue of acclaimed albums.

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1. Red Hill Lavender Farm and Café

There’s a unique peace that settles over you when you visit the Red Hill Lavender Farm and Café. After a brief period of closure, this beloved destination has reopened, welcoming guests with a renewed charm. With an interior refresh and lush grounds, the farm has blossomed in more ways than one. The lavender fields are in full bloom during autumn, filling the air with a calming fragrance. Visitors can enjoy a serene café experience with delicious seasonal treats, all while surrounded by the beauty of nature. It’s a place where time slows down, and you can truly reconnect with yourself and the landscape.

2. Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park

By day, the Moonlit Sanctuary is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Wander through the park, feed the Black Wallabies, and learn about critically endangered species like the Orange-bellied Parrot and the Bush Thick-knee. The sanctuary is home to a remarkable array of animals, including the Fluffy Glider and the Tasmanian Devil. As the sun sets, the park transforms into a mystical landscape during its famous lantern-lit tours. Experience the magic of nocturnal creatures like owls and gliders in their natural habitat, while the wallabies become even more active as night falls. It’s a truly unique way to connect with Australia’s wildlife.

3. Gordon Studio Glassblowers

Witnessing the delicate art of glassblowing is a mesmerizing experience, and at Gordon Studio Glassblowers, you can not only admire stunning pieces of glass art but also watch the process in action. This centuries-old craft dates back to the Roman Empire and has been perfected into functional and decorative masterpieces over time. At Gordon Studio, you can find vibrant glass artworks for sale or take a workshop to try your hand at creating your own. It’s an inspiring experience for art lovers and curious visitors alike.

4. Arthurs Seat Eagle

Soar to new heights this autumn with a ride on the Arthurs Seat Eagle, a scenic gondola that offers breathtaking views of the Mornington Peninsula. The gondola ride takes you over lush forests and rolling hills, providing a bird’s-eye view of the region’s stunning landscapes. This experience is perfect for all ages, with wheelchair and pram-friendly facilities ensuring that everyone can join in on the adventure. Whether you’re looking to embrace the exhilaration of heights or simply soak in the beauty from above, Arthurs Seat Eagle promises an uplifting experience that will leave you feeling inspired.

5. Aurora Spa and Bathhouse

Autumn is the perfect time to indulge in self-care, and what better way to do so than at the Aurora Spa & Bathhouse? Inspired by ancient bathing rituals from cultures around the world, Aurora offers a modern twist on communal bathing that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation. Located in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula, this spa experience is more than just a soak—it’s a chance to reconnect with yourself and nature. From tranquil thermal baths to rejuvenating spa treatments, Aurora is designed to nurture the body, mind, and spirit. Escape the stresses of everyday life and let the warm waters melt away your tension.

6. Red Hill Brewery

Autumn brings a flurry of activity to Red Hill Brewery, especially during the annual Hop Harvest in March. It’s the perfect time to roll up your sleeves and try your hand at hop picking, all while enjoying a delicious meal and freshly brewed beer. For beer lovers, it’s an opportunity to experience the entire brewing process, from hop harvest to the finished product. The brewery was founded by Karen and Dave Golding, inspired by the small microbreweries they visited during their travels through Germany, Belgium, and England. The family-friendly atmosphere and rich history behind the brewery make it a must-visit spot on the Peninsula.

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Whether you wind your way through the forest, follow the coast, or roll in past farmland, you’ll arrive at the Hill & Ridge Community Market in the heart of Red Hill.

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Out in the country, high on the hill, there’s a market where makers, growers, musicians and artists gather to share the bounty of the season — from fresh produce and handmade goods to vintage treasures and local art.

Whether you wind your way through the forest, follow the coast, or roll in past farmland, you’ll arrive at the Hill & Ridge Community Market, a gathering of good things in the heart of Red Hill.

First Saturday of each month (Sept – May).

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Held each year on the Saturday of the March long weekend, this lively celebration of agriculture, produce competitions, rural life and community spirit offers a fun-filled day out for all ages. From traditional livestock competitions and vintage machinery to farm animals, food trucks, live music, carnival rides, cooking demos, and hundreds of creative exhibits, the Show is a colourful patchwork of everything that makes the region special.

Crowd favourites include the thrilling woodchop competition, gumboot throw, working dog demonstrations, and the ever-popular dog high jump scramble.

Kids will love the animal nursery, pony rides, carnival attractions and hands-on activities, while adults can explore local wine, art, gardening, tractors and farm machinery – all in a beautiful bushland setting.

Whether you’re a long-time local or visiting for the first time, the Red Hill Show is a must-do event for your March long weekend.

SATURDAY 7 MARCH 2026 | FROM 8:30AM

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Our Annual Festival of Our Beer is Back!

The Head Brewer David Golding will host sessions of guided vertical tastings over the weekend. Delving into his cellars to share rarities from the past decade, a special feature on Stouts, with a very special release of a whisky barrel aged Imperial Stout, a collaboration with Chiefs Son Distillery, who are joining us for a special tasting event.

Fine lineup from the stash of aged and limited edition ales available on just 1 weekend with a big focus on dark brews:

Ember Altbier

2025 Launch of Imperial Stout plus multiple vintages available from the cellar for tasting flights

Barrel Aged Pancho Mole Imperial Stout aged in a whisky barrel

2019 Braggot, the Killer Bee!!!

Vertical tastings with the Brewmaster in the brewery at 3pm, tour, tasting, and sneak peek of a new Beer Club dark brew.

Note: 3pm Sat is Whisky tasting $25 pp ticketed

Low n Slow beer friendly food available all weekend

All welcome, no bookings required or tickets to just drop by for a pot, pint, paddle or BBQ.

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Aussie Wildlife Shows!

Get up close with Australia’s most fascinating native animals every Thursday!

Our Aussie Wildlife Shows offer an unforgettable encounter with furry, scaly, and feathery friends.

Animal shows are free but must be pre-booked on our website.

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Led by knowledgeable guides, these walks offer insights into native flora, fauna, and the rich cultural history of Wonga (Arthurs Seat).

These walks are free but must be booked and will be held on:

Tuesday 8 July at 11am & 1pm

Thursday 15 July at 11am & 1pm

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