A Day at Montalto Vineyard & Olive Grove

As the days get shorter and the summer heat dwindles away, don’t fret, as there is one destination that encapsulates the essence of summer all year long. For amid the beautiful hills of the Mornington Peninsula lies Montalto Vineyard & Olive Grove; an oasis for all the senses to enjoy.

The award-winning vineyard, cellar door and restaurant recently underwent a renovation as a part of its exciting evolution, updating its restaurant to cater for a wider-array of patrons on a daily basis.

Montalto has triumphantly succeeded in bridging the gap between local cellar door and swanky vineyard restaurant, to cater for a truly niche market; families and friends.

On any given weekend, you will these parties, both young and old, revelling in the beautiful setting whilst enjoying world-class wine paired with world-class cuisine.

Just last month, Montalto retained its award-winning status, collecting its 14th hat at The Age Good Food Guide awards; an impressive feat to say the least.

The reinvigorated Montalto restaurant features a stripped back restaurant with a new, relaxed dining environment bringing focus to the views of the vines, olive groves and sculptures of the picturesque Montalto estate. With the introduction of an asado grill, a true showpiece based on the traditional parrillas of Argentina, Montalto have also stepped it up in the kitchen – which is evident in the re-designed menu.

And what does the new menu entail, you ask? Provenance. Meals at Montalto restaurant will be prepared using the strong connection Montalto has with its estate garden – a truly beautiful site located in the heart of the Montalto property – and surrounding sources of local produce.

Dishes will showcase this fresh, local produce; lettuce, tomatoes, broad beans, globe artichoke, and a range of herbs straight from the garden; meat, fish and fowl are all locally sourced from producers including Milla’s Farm Ducks (Mount Macedon) and Milking Yard Farm. It’s this relationship and connection with local produce that truly sets Montalto’s dining experience apart from neighbouring vineyards and restaurants.

Of course, the estate’s famous garden sculptures are one of the main attractions. Curated by the talented Neil Williams, Montalto’s sculptures will now feature inside the restaurant. But they are not there yet. On the hunt for the perfect piece, Williams will creatively decorate the dining room with the key piece to feature sometime in 2018, much to the delight of eager diners.

It’s not a truly unique ‘Montalto’ experience unless some wine is involved, of course. Just this month, Montalto Estate was awarded another accolade; this time, the best Victorian Chardonnay as decided by Gourmet Traveller. The prestigious award went to the 2016 Montalto Estate Chardonnay.

If that’s not tempting enough, the Montalto Pennon Hill Sparkling Rose is also an absolute treat. Refreshing and light, this sparkling rose is the perfect drop for the warmer months.

If drinking is all you are after, the team behind Montalto Estate may even entice you with a refreshing wine cocktail jug at their neighbouring property, Tucks Ridge. Sit back on one of the grass chairs (or giant swing), as you overlook the stunning views on offer.

A day at the Montalto Estate is as enjoyable as it sounds. So, grab some friends and head down the coast for the spectacle that awaits at Montalto Vineyard & Olive Grove.