86-112 Tuerong Rd,
Tuerong VIC 3915
Yabby Lake came highly recommended from the folk at the Merricks General Wine Store. Situated as one of the most northern wineres in the Mornington region, it makes an ideal final stop on the way back to Melbourne.
The winery is Halliday 5 star, it produces some serious wines sourced from both its Mornington and Heathcote vineyards. There are plenty of standouts, the Yabby Lake Pinot Gris and the Syrah both stood out along with their Pinot Noir's.The restaurant is a casual style affair with great views across the vineyards and plenty of light and space.
Looking over the menu, the cassoulet was the obvious choice. served with generous chunks of pork belly, cured ham, Toulouse sausage and a confit duck leg, there is plenty to satisfy a carnivore. Served with a green salad, it is plenty for two.
Overall the cassoulet was well balanced, the bean filling was rich, but not too heavy on tomato. The parmesan and bread crumb topping was icing on the cake.
Pairing the cassoulet was the Yabby Lake 2016 Block 6 Pinot Noir. This is an exceptional Pinot, good enough for 97 points from Halliday. The great thing about a cellar door restaurant is the markup in the restaurant in almost nought. In addition to this, they allow you to take home anything left over so it really encourages one to let loose on a special red, but not feel obliged to complete the whole thing.
Yabby Lake is well worth a visit for both the wine and the restaurant. Winning on both fronts.
