CLP now calls me her little social butterfly after suggesting we invite hosts to share a bottle of red we purchased last night. They also bought a bottle along so once again too much to eat and drink yada yada yada. Another day has dawned and weather seems very pleasant . No rain and no heat . Once again actual planning is somewhat hampered by fact so many places of interest are closed on Tuesdays! A rather unnecessarily large cooked breakfast means first stop may be along walk on the beach and then let the day flow over us with the promise of no mingling after hours . Promise
Checked out another golf course – The Dunes – on way to beach. Not great beach walking weather but at least not raining . And no other people stupid enough to be on the beach in this weather . The sunnies kept the sand out of eyes at least .
With the threat of having to spend time at the Ashcombe Maze and Lavender Emporium looming large I quickly alerted all local tour operators to descend immediately and was suitably pleased when first big busload of Japanese rocked in a minute later thus making paying $18.50 to walk around in a circle even less appealing then it already was. Sweet, on to wineries . First up was Montalto Winery and Olive grove. I therefore assumed we would get a martini with each olive but was wrong again. Had the requisite tasting and then a short walk through an interesting array of sculptures
Time for a quick coffee at nearby Cellar & Pantry before dropping in at Polperro Winery . Very impressive cellar door with little Dutch boy Eric running the show . Very informative time spent with someone who actually seems to enjoy his job. It was a small intimate room so was happy we were guzzling the last one as a busload from nearby low security twilight home rocked him with zimmer frames and knitting needles. Eric the half a bee would have his work cut out for him
By now was a bit peckish and flushed of face so must be lunch time . Luckily Port Phillip Estate was nearby with world renowned Restaurant attached . It was closed . We had a quick tasting with the June Dally Watkins drop out behind the counter before settling in for the “ bistro” cheeky lunch 3 course surprise . Compared to Eric this was clearly just a job for said lass and not a passion. Unlike her love of mascara and makeup. Still it was a stunning location and the meal was passable if not memorable . I forget .
The wobbly boot was well attached by now and with no breweries open nearby we concluded we were tired of tasting Chardonnay and Pinot Noir for now so let’s head home for a cuppa and a lie down. Better be careful that bus from the home may come and pick us up ! I prefer to think of it as common sense . I was driving – now she tells me – and pushing my luck and not as if it was our last day . Eric had suggested 3 wineries a day is enough but then he is Dutch. I think 3 wineries between each brewery is enough but our options were limited . It has been a wonderful short stay in Mornington Peninsula but will remember in future not to be here on Monday / Tuesday if partaking in the drinking caper
One thing worth noting for visitors – and confirmed by hosts – is that the “taste pour” is on the small side in this area . More like the 10-15 ml aliquot of panadol elixir you give kiddies which is appropriate when discussing Chardonnay really. Not a bad thing of course but very noticeable especially when usually a tasting fee and a limited range of 5-6 wines. Not really a complaint as such just an observation . I inform as I amuse , it’s in my DNA
Fear not though fans as on to Healesville tomorrow for 2 days which does have wineries and breweries aplenty . And even Four Pillars Gin Soakery . Could be just the Tonic I need.
I’m here all week, try the veal
flashman181 