Mornington Peninsula, Coastal wine region in Victoria, Australia

Mornington Peninsula is an Australian wine region south of Melbourne, Victoria, with a cool maritime climate and an average vintage temperature of 20.2 °C. Soils range from sandy flatlands around Moorooduc and Tuerong to pale brown alluvial soils at Dromana and deep russet volcanic soils between Merricks and Balnarring. Vineyards sit between 25 and 250 metres, focusing on Pinot noir, with Chardonnay, Pinot gris and Tempranillo also grown.

European settlement started in 1803 with a penal colony at Sorrento, predating Melbourne's founding by several years. Later development shifted from farming to wine production, which became the region's defining economic activity.

The peninsula features colorful wooden beach boxes dotted along its shores, remnants of Victorian seaside bathing traditions that remain central to local beach culture. These small structures create a distinctive visual character that defines the waterfront experience.

Most beaches offer easy access with clean shallow waters suitable for swimming and various water activities throughout the year. Roads connect the major towns and attractions, while bus services link the peninsula to Melbourne and local communities.

The peninsula ranks among Australia's oldest European settlements, established as a penal colony years before Melbourne was founded. This early history leaves traces visible in the oldest districts, particularly in Sorrento where colonial-era buildings still stand.