Mornington Peninsula Breweries: 10 Best Spots For A Beer Or Cider
Introduction
Australia is renowned for its vibrant craft beer and cider scene, and the Mornington Peninsula is no exception. Nestled just southeast of Melbourne, this picturesque region is home to an impressive array of breweries and distilleries that are sure to delight beer and cider enthusiasts.
Whether you’re a local looking to explore the best spots for a pint or a visitor wanting to experience the unique flavors of the area, the Mornington Peninsula offers an abundance of options. From traditional breweries to innovative distilleries, there’s something for everyone’s taste.
The breweries on the Mornington Peninsula not only provide top-quality beverages but also offer stunning views, inviting atmospheres, and often delicious food to accompany your drink. This makes it the perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
In this article, we will take you on a journey through the ten best breweries and distilleries on the Mornington Peninsula. Get ready to discover hidden gems, learn about the brewing process, and savor some exceptional beers and ciders along the way.
Whether you’re a fan of hoppy IPAs, smooth stouts, zesty sours, or crisp ciders, the Mornington Peninsula’s breweries have you covered. Each establishment has its own unique character and specialties, ensuring a diverse and memorable experience for every palate.
So, grab a designated driver or plan your public transport route, because it’s time to embark on a beer and cider adventure through the Mornington Peninsula. Let’s raise a glass and dive into the vibrant world of craft beverages this beautiful region has to offer.
Red Hill Brewery
The Red Hill Brewery is a must-visit destination for beer lovers on the Mornington Peninsula. Located in the idyllic countryside of Red Hill, this family-owned brewery has been crafting exceptional beers since 2005.
At Red Hill Brewery, you’ll find a range of handcrafted ales and lagers made with premium malt and hops. Their core range includes favorites like the Golden Ale, Scotch Ale, and Wheat Beer, while their seasonal releases showcase their creativity and innovation.
One of the highlights of visiting Red Hill Brewery is being able to enjoy your beer in their rustic beer garden. Surrounded by rolling hills and leafy green trees, the beer garden provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon of beer tasting and socializing.
Red Hill Brewery also offers brewery tours, giving you the opportunity to learn about their brewing process and gain insights into the craftsmanship behind their beers. You’ll get to see their state-of-the-art brewing equipment and hear stories about the brewery’s history.
If you’re feeling hungry, Red Hill Brewery has you covered with their wood-fired pizzas that perfectly complement their beers. From classic margherita to gourmet options like prosciutto and rocket, there’s something to satisfy every pizza lover’s taste buds.
For those looking to take a piece of Red Hill Brewery home, their cellar door offers a range of packaged beers to purchase. You can also join their beer club, which delivers a selection of their latest releases straight to your door.
Overall, Red Hill Brewery offers a laid-back and welcoming environment where you can enjoy handcrafted beers, soak in the stunning natural surroundings, and indulge in delicious food. It’s a quintessential Mornington Peninsula experience for beer enthusiasts and a must-stop for anyone exploring the region.
Mornington Peninsula Brewery
The Mornington Peninsula Brewery is a celebrated institution in the local craft beer scene. Situated in Mornington, this brewery has been producing award-winning beers since 2010.
What sets Mornington Peninsula Brewery apart is their commitment to using only the finest ingredients and traditional brewing methods. They source their malt from Australia’s top producers and carefully select hops to create balanced and flavorsome beers.
Step inside the brewery’s welcoming taproom, and you’ll be greeted with a friendly atmosphere and an extensive range of beers on tap. From refreshing pale ales to rich dark beers, there’s something for every taste preference.
One of the signature beers at Mornington Peninsula Brewery is their IPA. Bursting with hop flavor and aroma, this beer is a favorite among hopheads. They also offer limited-release and seasonal brews, showcasing their brewing prowess and creativity.
If you’re interested in learning more about the brewing process, you can join one of their brewery tours. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours take you behind the scenes, giving you a glimpse into the craftsmanship that goes into each batch of beer.
When it comes to food, Mornington Peninsula Brewery doesn’t disappoint. Their on-site kitchen serves up a delicious menu featuring locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. Pair your beer with a mouthwatering burger, pizza, or shareable plates for a satisfying dining experience.
In addition to their taproom, Mornington Peninsula Brewery also has a beer garden where you can relax and enjoy your beer amidst the beautiful scenery. With ample outdoor seating and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to unwind with friends and family.
Don’t forget to visit their merchandise shop, where you can purchase branded apparel, glassware, and other beer-related accessories as a memento of your visit.
The Mornington Peninsula Brewery is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts who appreciate exceptional craftsmanship and a diverse range of flavors. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this brewery offers an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of the Mornington Peninsula’s craft beer culture.
Bass and Flinders Distillery
For those looking to explore the world of spirits, Bass and Flinders Distillery is a must-visit destination on the Mornington Peninsula. Located in Red Hill, this boutique distillery is renowned for its premium handcrafted gins, brandies, and liqueurs.
Established in 2009, Bass and Flinders Distillery takes pride in using traditional production methods and sourcing the finest Australian ingredients to create their spirits. Their attention to detail and dedication to quality is evident in every bottle.
Upon entering the distillery’s tasting room, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and love for spirits. They will guide you through a tasting experience, allowing you to sample their range of gins, each showcasing unique botanical blends.
One of the highlights of visiting Bass and Flinders Distillery is their distillery tours. Led by expert guides, these tours provide a fascinating insight into the distillation process and the art of creating spirits. You’ll learn about the history and origins of gin-making and have the chance to witness the stills in action.
After your tour, be sure to visit their onsite cellar door, where you can purchase your favorite spirits to take home. With a selection of gins, brandies, and liqueurs, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste.
Bass and Flinders Distillery also offers a range of gin masterclasses for those wanting to delve deeper into the world of gin. Led by their distillers, these interactive sessions allow participants to experience the craft of gin-making and create their own personalized gin blend.
If you’re feeling peckish, the distillery has a charming café where you can enjoy a light lunch or indulge in a cheese or chocolate pairing experience. Pairing their spirits with carefully selected accompaniments enhances the flavors and provides a unique tasting adventure.
Visiting Bass and Flinders Distillery is a delightful experience for spirit enthusiasts and those looking to expand their knowledge of Australian craft spirits. The dedication to quality, the range of unique botanical blends, and the immersive tour experiences make it a standout destination on the Mornington Peninsula.
Jetty Road Brewery
Tucked away in the heart of Dromana, Jetty Road Brewery is a hidden gem on the Mornington Peninsula. This family-owned brewery takes pride in producing high-quality craft beers that reflect the unique flavors and spirit of the region.
Jetty Road Brewery offers a diverse range of beers, each with its own distinctive character and style. From hoppy ales to smooth lagers and rich stouts, there’s a brew to please every beer lover’s palate.
What sets Jetty Road Brewery apart is their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, including malt from the nearby Otway Ranges and hops from the Victorian High Country. This dedication to supporting local suppliers and showcasing the flavors of the area shines through in their beers.
When you visit Jetty Road Brewery, you’ll be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. Their spacious and stylish taproom provides the perfect setting to enjoy a pint or two with friends. You can also soak up the sun and enjoy picturesque views of the surrounding vineyards from their outdoor seating area.
In addition to their core range of beers, Jetty Road Brewery offers limited-release and seasonal brews that showcase their creativity and experimentation. These unique brews push the boundaries of traditional beer styles and provide an exciting and ever-changing selection for patrons to explore.
Pair your beer with a tasty meal from their food menu, which features a range of delicious options made from locally sourced ingredients. From wood-fired pizzas to gourmet burgers and shareable plates, the food at Jetty Road Brewery complements their beers perfectly.
If you’re keen to learn more about the brewing process, Jetty Road Brewery offers brewery tours where you can get a behind-the-scenes look at their operations. Led by their knowledgeable staff, these tours provide insights into their brewing techniques and the craft beer industry as a whole.
Whether you’re a local looking for a laid-back hangout spot or a visitor seeking an authentic taste of the Mornington Peninsula, Jetty Road Brewery is a must-visit destination. With its commitment to quality, local ingredients, and innovative brews, this brewery offers a memorable and enjoyable experience for beer enthusiasts of all kinds.
Dainton Family Brewery
Located in Carrum Downs, the Dainton Family Brewery is a true labor of love and creativity. Founded by father and son duo, Dan and Kieran Dainton, this brewery prides itself on pushing boundaries and producing unique and experimental beers.
At Dainton Family Brewery, you’ll find an ever-changing lineup of beers that are constantly evolving and surprising. From hazy IPAs to bold sours and barrel-aged brews, their range showcases their passion for innovation and pushing the limits of traditional beer styles.
When you step into the brewery’s taproom, you’ll be greeted by a vibrant and lively atmosphere. The industrial-chic decor creates a trendy and welcoming space where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy their eclectic beer offerings.
One of the highlights of visiting Dainton Family Brewery is their commitment to collaboration. They often team up with other breweries and even local businesses to create unique and limited-edition brews. This collaborative spirit adds a sense of excitement and community to their beers.
Aside from their main beer offerings, Dainton Family Brewery is also known for their experimental and wild fermentation program. These small-batch brews utilize wild yeast and bacteria, resulting in complex and intriguing flavors that appeal to beer enthusiasts looking to explore new taste experiences.
In addition to their exceptional beers, Dainton Family Brewery also hosts lively events, including beer launches, live music, and food truck pop-ups. These events further enhance the vibrant atmosphere and provide an opportunity to connect with the local community.
If you’re interested in learning more about the brewing process, the team at Dainton Family Brewery offers brewery tours where you can witness firsthand their innovative techniques and hear the stories behind their beers. It’s a chance to gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and creativity that goes into each brew.
Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer aficionado or just starting to explore the world of unique and experimental brews, Dainton Family Brewery is a destination worth seeking out. Their passion for pushing boundaries and creating one-of-a-kind beers makes for an exciting and memorable visit on the Mornington Peninsula.
Main Ridge Estate
While the Mornington Peninsula is most renowned for its breweries, Main Ridge Estate offers a different experience for wine lovers. This family-owned winery, located in Main Ridge, is known for producing exceptional cool-climate wines that showcase the region’s unique terroir.
Main Ridge Estate prides itself on its commitment to organic and sustainable farming practices. The vineyard is managed with great care, resulting in wines that truly reflect the character of the land and the climate.
When you visit Main Ridge Estate, you’ll be captivated by the beauty of the vineyard and the stunning surrounding landscape. The picturesque views of rolling hills and vine-strewn valleys provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxed and enjoyable wine tasting experience.
The cellar door at Main Ridge Estate offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Knowledgeable staff members will guide you through their impressive selection of wines, which includes elegant Pinot Noir, aromatic Chardonnay, and refined Shiraz, among others.
During your tasting, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the winemaking process, the unique characteristics of the grapes grown on the Mornington Peninsula, and the story behind each wine. The staff’s passion for their craft shines through as they share their knowledge and love for their wines.
If you’re interested in gaining deeper insights into winemaking and the vineyard itself, Main Ridge Estate offers vineyard tours. Led by experienced guides, these tours take you through the vineyard, showcasing the different grape varieties and giving you a behind-the-scenes look at their winemaking process.
After your tasting or tour, take the opportunity to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings with a picnic on the estate grounds. Main Ridge Estate provides picnic facilities where you can unwind, savor a bottle of their wine, and soak in the beauty of the vineyard.
With its commitment to quality, sustainable farming practices, and stunning location, Main Ridge Estate is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts on the Mornington Peninsula. It’s an opportunity to experience the region’s elegant cool-climate wines and appreciate the beauty of the land where they are grown.
Hickinbotham of Dromana
Hickinbotham of Dromana is a renowned winery located in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula. With its rich history and commitment to producing exceptional wines, it has become a favorite destination for wine enthusiasts.
Established in 1988, Hickinbotham of Dromana is known for its sustainable and organic farming practices. The vineyards are meticulously managed, ensuring that only the best-quality grapes are used in their wines. This dedication to quality is reflected in each bottle.
When visiting Hickinbotham of Dromana, you’ll be greeted by a beautiful cellar door that exudes warmth and elegance. Here, you can engage in a wine tasting experience that showcases the diverse range of wines produced by the winery.
From elegant Chardonnay to complex Pinot Noir and velvety Shiraz, Hickinbotham of Dromana offers a variety of wines to suit every palate. The knowledgeable staff will guide you through the tasting, sharing insights about the winemaking process and the distinctive characteristics of each wine.
In addition to their cellar door, Hickinbotham of Dromana boasts a stunning restaurant that overlooks the vineyards. The restaurant offers a seasonal menu inspired by local produce, expertly paired with their wines. It’s the perfect place to indulge in a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner while enjoying the tranquil ambiance.
For those wanting a more immersive experience, Hickinbotham of Dromana offers vineyard tours. Led by passionate guides, these tours take you through the vineyards, where you can see the vines up close and learn about their sustainable farming practices.
Furthermore, Hickinbotham of Dromana hosts various events throughout the year, such as wine dinners and winemaker’s lunches. These events provide an opportunity to engage with the winemakers, sample their limited-edition releases, and gain a deeper understanding of their craft.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a novice looking to expand your palate, a visit to Hickinbotham of Dromana is a must. It’s a chance to taste exceptional wines, learn about sustainable winemaking practices, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Mornington Peninsula’s wine country.
St. Andrews Beach Brewery
Nestled near the stunning St. Andrews Beach on the Mornington Peninsula, St. Andrews Beach Brewery offers a unique beer experience in a breathtaking coastal setting. This brewery combines beer production, a rustic brewpub, and a surf-inspired vibe to create an unforgettable destination for beer lovers.
St. Andrews Beach Brewery boasts a state-of-the-art brewing facility that produces a range of handcrafted beers. From refreshing pilsners to hop-forward IPAs, their beers are crafted using traditional brewing techniques and only the finest ingredients.
The brewery’s venue is designed to provide a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Settle into their spacious brewpub, which features a rustic and beach-inspired interior with large windows and high ceilings that let in plenty of natural light.
While enjoying their beers, you can also savor a delicious meal from their menu, which showcases the best of local produce. From wood-fired pizzas to gourmet burgers and seafood dishes, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
St. Andrews Beach Brewery also hosts regular events, such as live music performances and food festivals, creating an energetic and vibrant ambiance. It’s the perfect place to gather with friends, enjoy good beer, and soak up the lively atmosphere.
If you’re interested in learning more about the brewing process, the brewery offers guided tours. Led by knowledgeable staff, these tours provide insights into their brewing techniques, the ingredients they use, and the story behind their beers. You’ll get to see the brewing equipment up close and learn about the art of crafting high-quality beer.
For a unique experience, St. Andrews Beach Brewery is situated within close proximity to stunning beaches. After enjoying a pint, you can take a stroll along the sandy shores or even catch a wave if you’re a keen surfer.
Whether you’re a beer aficionado or simply looking for a relaxing spot to enjoy a drink and soak up the coastal atmosphere, St. Andrews Beach Brewery offers a memorable experience on the Mornington Peninsula. With its exceptional beer, delicious food, and stunning surroundings, this brewery is a true gem for visitors and locals alike.
Mock Red Hill
Mock Red Hill is a farm-based cidery located in Red Hill on the Mornington Peninsula. As a family-owned and operated business, they specialize in producing handcrafted ciders from their own orchards. Their commitment to traditional cider-making techniques and their passion for quality shine through in every sip.
One of the unique aspects of Mock Red Hill is their farm-to-glass approach. They grow their own apples, allowing them to have full control over the quality and flavor of their ciders. This dedication to using only the finest fruit ensures that each bottle delivers a true taste of the Mornington Peninsula.
When you visit Mock Red Hill, you’ll be greeted by a charming and rustic cellar door. The friendly staff will guide you through a cider tasting, offering insights into the cider-making process and the different varieties they produce.
The range of ciders available at Mock Red Hill is impressive, with options to suit a variety of tastes. From traditional dry ciders to sweeter and fruit-infused varieties, they have something for everyone. Whether you prefer the crispness of a traditional cider or the unique flavors of their limited-estate releases, you’ll find a cider to tantalize your taste buds.
In addition to their cider tasting, Mock Red Hill offers guided orchard tours. You’ll have the opportunity to explore their beautiful orchards and learn about the apple varieties they grow. These tours provide a deeper understanding of the cider-making process and the importance of sustainable farming practices.
The farm’s picturesque surroundings make it an ideal spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll among the apple trees. You can indulge in a local produce platter or pack your own picnic to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and scenic views.
Mock Red Hill also hosts various events throughout the year, including cider release parties and cider-making workshops. These events offer a chance to immerse yourself in the world of cider and gain a deeper appreciation for this beloved beverage.
If you’re a cider enthusiast or simply looking to explore the local flavors of the Mornington Peninsula, a visit to Mock Red Hill is a must. With their dedication to quality, sustainable farming practices, and a warm and inviting atmosphere, it’s an experience that will leave you with a newfound love for artisanal ciders.
Two Bays Brewing Co.
For those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, Two Bays Brewing Co. offers a unique and inclusive beer experience on the Mornington Peninsula. As Australia’s first dedicated gluten-free brewery, they are committed to producing exceptional beers that everyone can enjoy.
Two Bays Brewing Co. takes pride in creating gluten-free beers without compromising on taste or quality. Their range includes a variety of styles, from classic pale ales to crisp lagers and refreshing IPAs. Each beer is crafted using gluten-free grains and their own unique brewing process, ensuring that every sip is flavorful and satisfying.
Located in Dromana, the brewery has a welcoming and family-friendly taproom where you can sample their delicious gluten-free beers. The knowledgeable staff are happy to provide recommendations and insights into the brewing process, making your visit educational as well as enjoyable.
In addition to their taproom, Two Bays Brewing Co. also offers brewery tours where you can learn more about their gluten-free brewing techniques. You’ll have the opportunity to see the brewing equipment up close, gain insights into the ingredients they use, and appreciate the care and attention that goes into their brewing process.
The brewery’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond their beers. They have created a space that is accessible and welcoming to all, ensuring that those with dietary restrictions can enjoy a fulfilling beer experience.
Two Bays Brewing Co. also serves delicious gluten-free pizzas made with locally sourced ingredients. Pairing their beers with their mouthwatering pizzas provides a complete gluten-free dining experience that will satisfy your cravings.
Whether you have a gluten intolerance or simply appreciate the craft of gluten-free brewing, a visit to Two Bays Brewing Co. is a must. You’ll have the opportunity to sample a diverse array of gluten-free beers and discover new favorites in a warm and inclusive environment.
As Australia’s first dedicated gluten-free brewery, Two Bays Brewing Co. is at the forefront of the gluten-free beer movement, making it a standout destination on the Mornington Peninsula for those seeking exceptional gluten-free brews.
