Jackalope has always been a bit more of a hotel that makes wine than it is a winery with a hotel. That's not a knock – it's just where the focus is. And a night at Jackalope – though it will cost you – is one of the best hotel experiences in Victoria, if not Australia.

Some of the finest food, wine and views on the entire Mornington Peninsula, which is saying something. And the accommodation is no slouch either: there's a range of king-sized suites to choose from.

This guesthouse is another one that isn't a winery hotel, but that's so close to the vines – there's a vineyard literally on the doorstep – that it may as well be.

A cosy cottage and winery set among seven acres of vines. The cellar door is open all summer.

What this winery lacks in size, it more than makes up for in character. Whether it’s the quaint, well-appointed guesthouses (made from reconverted 1930s train carriages) or the idiosyncratic pinot noirs and pinot gris – naturally fermented with wild yeast, then hand-macerated – a visit here is sure to stand out.

This picturesque winery also has a comfortable and well-appointed villa for five – which comes with a deck with view of vineyards and the Murray River, and even a jacuzzi.

Crittenden has three on-site villas that sit right on the lake. It's a tranquil setting that's right by the vines and the estate's excellent in-house restaurant, Stillwater.