Polperro

If you’re after a quintessential Mornington Peninsula dining experience, Polperro should be at the top of your list. The 80-seat bistro offers panoramic views of the surrounding vineyard and native angophora trees, which inspired the clean, two-tone Hecker Guthrie interior. There are lights from Amsterdam, an open fireplace and a deck facing out towards the valley.

The menu features European-inspired dishes that celebrate the seasons. Traditionalists will appreciate the range of dishes built around poultry and seafood, but there’s also an equal emphasis on vegetables. A meal here is presented as a journey exploring not just flavour, but also texture and colour through each elegant course.

The extensive wine list features local and international producers, alongside the winery’s own cool-climate-focused labels. Polperro’s founder, Sam Coverdale, worked for Tyrrell’s and Hardys in Australia and Europe before starting the Even Keel brand in 2006. Under that name he sources riesling, chardonnay, pinot noir and syrah (shiraz) from the Clare Valley, Canberra, Tumbarumba and Orange.

Polperro (established in 2009) is a single-vineyard label which only uses grapes from the property itself. Both labels are produced at an old apple cool store just up the road.

Polperro also has on-site accommodation. There are four rooms available, each featuring an open fireplace and private views.