Stonier Wines

Stonier Wines is one of the Mornington Peninsula's earliest and most enduring producers, established in 1978 at a time when the region was still finding its footing as a serious wine district. More than four decades on, it remains a benchmark for cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the two varieties that define what the peninsula does best.

Located in Merricks — a quiet rural pocket about 90 minutes south of Melbourne — Stonier occupies a patch of well-drained, gravelly soils that suit both varieties well. The surrounding landscape is shaped by maritime influence: cooling breezes drawn in from Port Phillip Bay and the Southern Ocean temper the growing season, slowing ripening and allowing flavours to develop gradually. The result is wines with genuine structure, natural acidity, and the kind of regional character that reflects where they were grown.

The Wines

Stonier's focus is tight and deliberate — Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, full stop. These are notoriously temperamental varieties that reward careful site selection and patient winemaking, and the Mornington Peninsula's cool, maritime climate gives them the conditions they need to produce elegant, age-worthy wines. Visitors to the cellar door can expect to taste across the range, with current vintages alongside library releases available through the on-site wine shop.

Cellar Door Experience

The cellar door is designed with a relaxed, contemporary feel — approachable without being casual about the wines. Tastings centre on the flagship Pinot Noir and Chardonnay expressions, and winery tours of the winemaking facilities are available for those who want to go deeper into the production side of things.

Tasting fees, session formats, and group size limitations aren't fixed here — it's worth confirming those details directly via the Stonier website or by phone before you visit, particularly if you're travelling as part of a larger group.

Food arrangements at Stonier are also worth checking ahead of your visit. Whether you're hoping for a platter to accompany your tasting or curious about picnic policies, the winery can advise on current offerings when you book.

Getting There

Stonier is in Merricks, reached via the Moorooduc Highway heading south from Melbourne — plan for roughly 90 minutes from the CBD under normal traffic conditions. The roads leading to the winery are sealed and accessible to standard vehicles. Caravans are generally manageable on the approach roads, though it's sensible to confirm parking arrangements directly before arriving.

Public transport to this part of the peninsula is limited, so a car is the practical choice for any Mornington Peninsula wine trip.

Visitor Tips

• Book ahead during summer (December–February) and harvest (April–May) — these are the busiest windows, and cellar door and tour spots can fill quickly
• Allow 1–2 hours to get through a tasting and winery tour comfortably
• Combine your visit with other cellar doors along the peninsula; the region is compact and well-suited to a day-long loop
• Pack a light layer — cool-climate weather on the peninsula can shift unexpectedly, even in summer
• Check the wine shop for library releases if you're interested in tasting how Stonier's wines develop with a few years' bottle age

Autumn — from March through May — is a particularly good time to visit. Harvest activity brings an energy to the winery, crowds are thinner than summer, and the cooler days make for comfortable exploring. Winter visits (June–August) are quieter still, suited to those who prefer the region without the peak-season bustle.