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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Crittenden Easter Long Weekend

Live music sets the tone on Friday and Saturday across the Easter long weekend.

On Easter Sunday, the focus turns to family, with visits from the Easter Bunny, face painting and plenty of space for ball games on the lawn.

For the adults, enjoy a specially curated Easter-inspired cocktail, while the kitchen prepares something a little extra special to mark the occasion.

The Restaurant & Terrace will be open all Easter Long weekend , the perfect excuse to gather, unwind and enjoy the Mornington Peninsula.

Lunch: Open everyday

Dinner: Friday & Saturday evenings

Cellar Door: Closed Good Friday | Open Easter Saturday, Sunday & Monday

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From relaxing hot springs to scenic hikes and long winery lunches, autumn is the perfect excuse to slow down and discover a new favourite spot.

Take A Scenic Coastal Walk

Cooler autumn temperatures make it the perfect season for exploring the peninsula’s dramatic coastline.

One of the most spectacular walks is along the cliffs between Cape Schanck and Bushrangers Bay. The trail winds past rugged coastal scenery, rock pools and sweeping ocean views — ideal for photographers and nature lovers.

Another favourite is exploring the wild landscapes around Cape Schanck Lighthouse, where boardwalks and staircases lead down to volcanic rock platforms and hidden beaches.

For a longer adventure, the coastal trails within Point Nepean National Park offer incredible views across Port Phillip Bay and Bass Strait.

Soak In Natural Thermal Springs

Cool mornings and crisp evenings make autumn the perfect time to relax in geothermal mineral pools.

At Peninsula Hot Springs, you can wander through dozens of bathing experiences including hilltop pools, cave baths and thermal pools surrounded by nature. The spa features more than 70 wellness experiences and bathing areas designed for relaxation.

The Bath House area is family-friendly, while the Spa Dreaming Centre provides a quieter experience for adults seeking spa treatments and private pools.

It’s one of the most relaxing ways to spend a cool autumn afternoon.

Enjoy A Long Winery Lunch

Autumn is harvest season on the Mornington Peninsula, making it a fantastic time to visit the region’s wineries.

The cooler months are ideal for lingering over a long lunch paired with local pinot noir or chardonnay.

Ride The Gondola At Arthurs Seat

For one of the best views on the peninsula, take a ride on the Arthurs Seat Eagle.

The gondola lifts visitors from Dromana to the summit of Arthurs Seat, climbing over 200 metres while offering panoramic views across Port Phillip Bay.

Once at the top, there are walking trails, lookouts and cafés where you can enjoy the scenery before heading back down.

Explore Nature And Wildlife

For a quieter outdoor experience, visit Coolart Wetlands and Homestead Reserve.

This historic estate features walking trails through wetlands and coastal woodlands, making it a popular spot for birdwatching, picnics and relaxed nature walks.

Families will also enjoy visiting Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, where you can see native Australian animals including kangaroos, koalas and rare wildlife species.

Take A Relaxed Autumn Drive

One of the best ways to explore the Mornington Peninsula is simply by taking a scenic drive through its villages, beaches and vineyards.

Wind through the rolling hills of Red Hill, stop at a cellar door for wine tasting, explore coastal towns like Flinders or Sorrento, and finish the day with dinner overlooking the ocean.

Autumn’s cooler weather and golden landscapes make it the perfect season for a relaxed road trip through the region.

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The property benefits from the distinct microclimate of this tightly held Mornington Peninsula region close to Western Port and only an hours drive from Melbourne.

The vineyard plantings include approximately:

• 20 acres of Pinot Noir (clone MV6)
• 5 acres of Merlot
• 4 acres mixed varieties including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz
• 850 olive trees, producing approximately 1,000 litres of olive oil annually

Water security is supported by two bores (one requiring a new pump) plus a dam with approximately 500,000 gallons of storage.

Set privately away from the commercial operations, the residence offers comfortable accommodation including three bedrooms, kitchen, family room, loungeroom, bathroom and laundry.

An exceptional lifestyle and business opportunity in one of Victoria’s most desirable wine regions.

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Sundays in February are made for long afternoons on the Crittenden Terrace.

Join us every Sunday in February for “Terrace Tunes”, with live music by local musician Alex Jozza from 1–4pm.

Sip cocktails and estate wines, graze on delicious eats from our food truck, and soak up the Peninsula summer vibes.

Kids welcome, space to roam, and plenty of room to unwind.

– Terrace opens at 12pm. Food service finishes at 5pm.

– Walk-ins only

– No BYO food or drinks

– No pets

– Cricket sets and ball games for the kids (and adults!)

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Crittenden; Mornington Peninsula is firmly in both camps. It’s not pretentious. It doesn’t posture. And that, more than anything, is why people keep coming back. What’s offered here isn’t a performance of hospitality, but a lived-in sense of ease — one that suits families, couples, groups of friends, and anyone who simply wants to spend time somewhere generous, grounded and quietly confident.

Set around a lake and surrounded by gardens that invite wandering rather than direction, Crittenden; Mornington Peninsula encourages you to slow down almost without noticing. Indoors and out flow naturally into one another. Tables stretch into long lunches. Kids drift off to explore. Conversations soften. You’re held by nature, supported by attentive but relaxed staff, and freed from the sense that you need to be anywhere else.

This is dining that understands how the market has changed and what patrons are yearning for these days.

A tale of two tables: Restaurant & Terrace

Crittenden’s food offering is split across two distinct but complementary experiences — the Restaurant and the Terrace — each with its own rhythm, mood and menu. Both share the same underlying philosophy: thoughtful food, fair pricing, and menus designed to enhance the moment rather than dominate it.

The Terrace
The Terrace is casual, sunlit, and quietly joyful. Sitting right on the lake’s edge, it’s the kind of place where a quick stop can easily become an afternoon. Walk-ins only, open-air, and family-friendly, it’s hospitality without friction.

The menu here is deliberately approachable, offering breadth without excess. Pizzettes sit comfortably at $26 each, making sharing easy and unforced — and the Charred Pumpkin pizzette, with gorgonzola dolce, pecan and wild garlic, is a standout that consistently surprises. It’s balanced, generous, and far more than a token vegetarian option.

For something heartier, the California Poke Bowl (around the $28–29 mark) is worth every cent — fresh, satisfying and refreshingly healthy in style, with the choice of tuna or tofu and flavours that linger longer than expected. It’s the kind of dish that feels good to eat and even better to order again.

Small plates span a sensible range — from the low teens through to the high twenties — making it easy to build a table without overthinking it. The Ocean Trout Tostadas are particularly memorable: light, fresh and layered, they strike that rare balance between refinement and ease. The Karaage Chicken (at $24) is a crowd favourite for good reason — crisp, comforting, and deeply satisfying, with a nod to Korean flavours that feels confident rather than forced.

Families are well catered for too. The Little Critters Macaroni (at $16) is a genuine flavour bomb — not a consolation dish, but something kids actively love which in turn lets parents relax and enjoy their own meal properly.

It’s all supported by an extensive drinks list, anchored by Crittenden’s own wines, alongside easy spritzes, local beers and thoughtful non-alcoholic options — the kind of list that meets people where they are, whether it’s mid-afternoon or edging toward evening

The Restaurant
If the Terrace is about ease and openness, the Restaurant offers a more intimate expression of the same values. Refined but never formal, it’s a space that works just as well for quiet dinners as it does for shared celebrations.

The menu here continues the theme of accessibility without compromise. Eleven small share plates invite exploration and conversation, with highlights including the Wagyu Scotch Tacos, the beautifully handled Scallop Ceviche, and oysters finished with Marigold Mignonette — dishes that feel special without tipping into excess.

Value is a quiet strength. When you benchmark offering, price and quality against peers, Crittenden Mornington Peninsula consistently holds its own. But what you can’t benchmark — and can’t price — is the environment itself. The surrounds. The way the lake, the gardens, the accomodation and the cellar door and the space between tables shape the experience as much as what’s on the plate.

Dessert often has to wait — not from lack of temptation, but because time slips by unnoticed. Which, frankly, is a good problem to have.

Uncompromised & ambient dining

Crittenden exemplifies what we think of as uncompromised & ambient dining. Diners are no longer chasing formality or spectacle. They’re seeking destinations — places where space, setting and atmosphere are as important as the menu. Dining that feels generous rather than crowded. Considered rather than choreographed. High quality, yes — but human first.

Here, the ritual of eating out has evolved. Tables are well spaced. Nature isn’t just a backdrop; it’s part of the experience. Fresh maritime air drifts across the lake. Wine is enjoyed in context — with time, with light, with conversation. It’s immersive without being engineered.

This is also a deeply connected experience. The outdoors is not something you look at through glass; it’s something you inhabit. Guests breathe, wander, linger. The estate absorbs different cultures, different generations, different ways of gathering — and does so without hierarchy.

There is something here for everyone. All walks of life. All ages. All moods. A true family setting in the broadest, most generous sense of the word.

Why people return

You can measure menus by price and quality. You can compare wine lists and kitchens. What you can’t quantify is how a place makes you feel.

Crittenden feels relaxed without being casual. Polished without being precious. Earned rather than designed. It’s relevant because it respects nature. Because it understands modern life. Because it offers choice without pressure, quality without compromise, and hospitality without theatre.

And that — more than anything — is why we believe visitors will return.

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Founded by Garry and Margaret Crittenden in the early 1980s, this family-owned winery is one of the region’s oldest, playing a pivotal role in putting the Mornington Peninsula on the map. With just a handful of wineries in the area back then, Garry and Margaret’s hard work and vision were instrumental in fostering the growth of both the local wine industry and tourism. Garry’s love of plants and background in horticulture naturally led him to winemaking, with the understanding that good grapes are the cornerstone of great wine. What started as a modest five-acre vineyard has blossomed into a celebrated family enterprise.

While Garry has now semi-retired, leaving behind a legacy recognized by his designation as a Legend by the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival in 2012, his spirit and dedication live on through his children. Rollo Crittenden, who grew up among the vines, is now the General Manager, Winemaker, and Vineyard Manager, passionately continuing the family tradition of excellence and innovation. With winemaking experiences across the globe and a focus on sustainability, Rollo crafts wines that capture the essence of the Peninsula, believing that a wine’s taste begins in the vineyard and is perfected in the winery.

Zoe Crittenden, with her marketing expertise, has been shaping the brand’s style and sophistication for over 16 years. She and Rollo manage the day-to-day operations, ensuring that every visitor leaves with a memorable experience and a deeper appreciation for what makes Crittenden unique.

A visit to the Crittenden Wine Centre offers more than just wine; it’s a journey into the heart of sustainable winemaking. The family’s commitment to biological farming practices ensures a thriving ecosystem that nurtures not only the vines but also the environment for future generations. Their philosophy is simple: respect the land, and it will yield the best fruit.

Crittenden’s Cellar Door seasonal tasting experiences add an extra layer of delight. Whether you’re indulging in a Wine & Cheese or Pinot & Prosciutto pairing, these offerings are crafted to elevate your understanding and enjoyment of their wines. These experiences, alongside their prestigious accolades—such as the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2024, AGFG Reader’s Choice Award 2024, and The Real Review Top Wineries 2024—underscore Crittenden’s commitment to excellence.

For those who appreciate a personal touch, the Crittenden Cellar Door offers two distinct tasting experiences. The Standard Tasting introduces you to a variety of styles, allowing you to choose from 6-8 wines that match your preferences, for just $20 per person. For a deeper dive, the Premium Tasting includes their finest single-vineyard selections and a closer look at their sustainable practices, available for $30 per person. Both options promise an intimate, informative experience that will leave you with a newfound favourite to take home.

For something truly special, book a private tasting room experience. This allows for an in-depth exploration of their wines, guided by expert staff in an intimate setting. Whether you’re impressing friends or simply seeking a quiet moment to savour each sip, this is a chance to truly connect with the wines and the stories behind them.

Crittenden Cellar Door is more than a destination; it embodies the concept of ‘indoor-outdoor,’ capturing the seamless blend between nature and venue. This positive flow creates an inviting atmosphere where the connection between nature and the venue enhances the social and emotional environment.

As you leave, you carry with you not just the taste of world-class wines, but a piece of the Crittenden legacy—a testament to their passion, perseverance, and profound respect for the land. It’s an experience that leaves an indelible mark, inviting you to return and be a part of their story.

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Eight wineries situated within 5km of scenic Merricks North on the Mornington Peninsula are kindly donating tastings of boutique wines to help fund the restoration of historic Fenton Hall. Each patron will receive a delicious snack pack with local cheeses and quince paste and some wineries are offering fabulous food. Local businesses are kindly donating valuable prizes, such as wine and cider.

Choose 4 wineries from Avani, Fenian, Merricks Creek, Merricks Estate, Mont Rouge, Paradigm Hill, Quealy, Scorpo and spend just under an hour at each from 12 noon to 4pm. The winemakers will discuss their wines with you. Everyone who attends this event has a great time meeting the winemakers and other visitors!

Tickets $50 per person.

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