For a laid-back and enjoyable dining experience, Nicol's Paddock is the spot to be.
This charming winery and restaurant, run by a small family, promises a relaxing vibe that pairs perfectly with their exquisite wines.
In 1997, Peter Nicol planted the vineyard on-site, opening a cellar door in 2001. Fast forward to 2015, and the reins were taken over by Pete’s son, Jack Nicol, and his wife, Katherine Anderson. Nicol’s Paddock specialises in producing Shiraz and Rose from estate-grown fruit, with small batches of Viognier and Pinot Noir crafted on-site.
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The restaurant sets the stage for convivial and relaxed shared-style dining, boasting a modern atmosphere with a menu that changes with the seasons. Nicol’s Paddock emphasises a communal dining experience featuring locally sourced and seasonal delights, accompanied by a stellar selection of regional wines.
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Summer at Nicol’s Paddock brings highlights like house-made sourdough, scallop ceviche, apple & maple pork ribs, and whole jerk chicken. Vegetarian and vegan options shine, including heirloom tomatoes with basil and cauliflower steak with fennel, green peppercorns & pomegranate. Thanks to a rotating menu, the kitchen collaborates with various local suppliers, treating patrons to a taste of the region. There’s also a range of local beers and wines too, including the likes of Heroes Vineyard, Empire of Dirt, Bells Beach Brewing and Blackman’s Brewery.
Picture this: an ornamental vine gracefully climbing over the restaurant, offering views of the vineyard and towards Waurn Ponds Creek. The setting is nothing short of heavenly. The tables provide stunning views of the vineyard through large windows spanning the front of the restaurant. Indoors, a fireplace keeps things warm, while evaporative air conditioning ensures comfort. Outdoors, bench seating and bar stools/barrel tables on the lawn create the perfect winery dining experience. And here’s the cherry on top – well-behaved cats and dogs are more than welcome in the outdoor dining area.
Indulge in a tasting of Nicol’s boutique wines while overlooking the picturesque vineyard at their intimate cellar door and marvel at the seasonal changes of the Shiraz vines. While the cellar door is open by appointment for groups up to 12, tastings for 1-6 people are available in the restaurant space (if space permits) without an appointment.
Nicol’s Paddock is located at 35 Waurn Ponds Drive, Waurn Ponds, and is open Thursday: 11 am – 4 pm, Friday & Saturday: 11 am – 10 pm and Sunday: 11 am – 5 pm. Find out more here.
