Designed by the design visionaries behind The Wheelhouse, Jackalope is a luxury hotel set on the magnificent Willow Creek Vineyard in Merricks North. From rich, volcanic soil, the 11 hectare vineyard produces pinot noir, chardonnay, cabernet, pinot gris and sauvignon blanc under wine maker Geraldine McFaul. The winery restaurant, Rare Hare, is a rustic space boasting a breathtaking view over the vineyard and a menu designed by renowned chef Guy Stanaway. Make a night of it and book a stay at the Jackalope Hotel where a spa, private dining room and curated art collection are yours to experience.
Held on the first Saturday of every month from September to May, the Red Hill Market is a local institution, running in the town since 1975. Featuring the wares of local farmers, producers and craftsmen, there’s something here for everyone. Collect your local produce for the week, or shop for gifts, plants, art and crafts in a picturesque setting.
Since 1922, Merricks General Wine Store has been serving the best of local wine and gourmet fare to the Peninsula community. Unmissible from the scenic drive through Shoreham, stop in here to purchase homemade preserves, muesli, chutney, as well as wines from the region. For something more substantial, dine in the bistro for rustic, hearty food designed to share.
Famous for its signature pinot grigio, enjoy a range of wines at the cellar door including rose, moscato, tempranillo and pinot noir. The 100-arce vineyard provides amazing views from the dining area, where their signature woodfired pizzas continue the Italian theme to make for an iconic pitstop through Red Hill.
If wine’s not your thing, the Red Hill Brewery is the perfect option for beer lovers. Tucked away amongst a bush setting, the brewery is home to a traditional brewhouse with copper machinery. Pick up a tasting paddle of a range of pale ales, to heavier and craftier Belgian-style strong ales. A southern-style BBQ menu complements it all beautifully.
Visit strawberry heaven at Sunny Ridge. Pick your own strawberries from November to April, amongst the rolling fields of the farm. Afterwards, enjoy the cafe where all things strawberry are hero – taste the homemade ice cream, jams, desserts and take home a strawberry-themed gift.
Combining monumental architecture and exceptional wine, Port Phillip Estate is a spectacular destination offering fine dining and boutique accomodation, with coastal views. A rammed limestone building designed by Wood Marsh creates a captivating experience, featuring the dining room, cellar door and vineyard-view rooms.
Garry Crittenden is a pioneer of the Peninsula wine region, first planting grapes in 1982, and cultivating Italian wine varieties in the area. Their range now includes Spanish and French varieties, to be enjoyed lakeside in their luxury villas, or at their on-site restaurant – the closest winery to The Wheelhouse.
Established in 1921, The Epicurean is a restored coolstore and packing shed, now converted into an expansive space for dining, coffee, wine tasting and events. The Shed is the main attraction, a dining space heralding regional produce to feature in gourmet pizzas, homemade bread, cheese, and an impressive selection of over 100 wines.