Marnong Estate: Rural Elegance on Melbourne’s Edge
Just 35 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, Marnong Estate is a 16-hectare winery and working farm in Mickleham, named after the native murnong (or yam daisy) that once thrived in the region. Set among rolling pastures, the estate is home to roaming Angus cattle, alpacas, and a striking blend of rural charm and refined hospitality.
More Than a Cellar Door
While wine is central to Marnong—think award-winning pinot grigio and fiano made from estate-grown grapes—it’s also a destination for exceptional dining and boutique accommodation. Executive chef Salvatore Giorgio (ex-Scopri, Bar Bambi) oversees the culinary program across multiple venues.
Laid-Back Flavours, Lawnside Feasts
On weekends, Caffe Vista serves panini and arancini perfect for pairing with a bottle from the cellar door and enjoying picnic-style on the lawns. For something heartier, head to Cucina 3064, a casual all-day eatery dishing up pizzas and pastas.
La Vetta: Dining at the Peak
At the top of the estate sits La Vetta—meaning “the peak” in Italian—a polished dining room with sweeping views of the Macedon Ranges through floor-to-ceiling windows. The space is divided by tan leather banquettes and lush planters, with private dining rooms and a cocktail bar adding to the upscale ambience.
A Menu Rooted in Italian Craft
La Vetta’s menu pays homage to traditional Italian techniques with a modern touch. Think creamy burrata with pickled vegetables, ricotta gnocchi (ndunderi) in pistachio pesto, and a rich eggplant parmigiana. The standout? A one-kilogram bistecca alla Fiorentina, served with woodfired sides. Desserts are indulgent, from a whimsical tuile "coffee cup" filled with zabaglione to tiramisu cannoli and a generous cheese board featuring 36-month-aged parmigiano.
A Homestead Stay to Remember
The on-site accommodation is another highlight. The restored 1800s homestead, set among vineyards and paddocks, houses just four suites—or you can book the whole place for a private escape. Stay overnight to sip estate-grown montepulciano by the fire and take in a glowing sunset over the ranges.
