'The vineyards that supply the grapes for these outstanding regional wines are 10 minutes apart by tractor, hence the name. A collection of old tractors reinforces the theme, but the main focus is on the cellar door and top class restaurant overlooking the verdant landscape. Picture windows bring the outside in, open fires beckon in winter and the sea lies in the distance. It's comfy and hospitable, but also very professional. Standards are very high in both food and wine; the signature Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are seriously impressive.' Ralph Kyte-Powell
Ten Minutes by Tractor (TMBT) was formed in 1999 by three families, each of whom owned vineyards close to each other on Mornington Peninsula with an aim to produce wines that reflected the unique character of their vineyards. In 2004 TMBT was bought by Martin Spedding.
Ten Minutes By Tractor has 14ha of bearing vineyards, with average age of 16 years, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris and Tempranillo. The different vineyards - different locations, elevations and orientations - give them the opportunity of picking and vinifying grapes from each block within each vineyard, separately.
In the restaurant, chef Stuart Bell produces outstanding dishes, using high quality, local produce as much as possible, including herbs, salads and vegetables from their own kitchen garden. This provides an extra dimension for their customers to further extend the wine tasting experience.
Five stars - James Halliday Australian Wine Companion 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011
One star - Gourmet Traveller 2009, 2010 and 2011 Restaurant Guide
Ranked in Victoria's top 10 regional restaurants - Gourmet Traveller 2010 and 2011 Restaurant Guide.
2008 Australian Wine List of the Year - Gourmet Traveller Wine List of the Year 2008
One Chef's Hat - Age Good Food Guide 2011