Nicol's Paddock is a small, family-run winery and restaurant on the outskirts of Geelong in Waurn Ponds, Victoria. The winery produces estate-grown wines including Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Viognier, Red Blend, and Rosé, all lovingly made and bottled on-site by vigneron Peter Nicol. The restaurant offers lunch Thursday-Sunday and dinner Friday-Saturday with locally sourced, seasonal food and vineyard views.
Yes, Nicol’s Paddock has a tasting room open to visitors. Visits are by reservation, so book ahead rather than dropping in.
Nicol’s Paddock focuses on Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Viognier, Rose. Signature bottles include Saint Regis Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Viognier, Red Blend, Estate Rose, Estate Shiraz. When booking a tasting, ask which current release best represents the estate's style.
A tasting at Nicol’s Paddock costs AU$5 per person. Fees change with the season and the experience booked, so confirm the current price when you reserve.
Yes, Nicol’s Paddock has food available alongside tastings. Having food while tasting reduces the effect of alcohol and helps you taste more accurately. Worth taking advantage of when offered.
Yes, Nicol’s Paddock has a picnic area. Call ahead to confirm any corkage fee or outside-food policy. Some estates allow you to bring provisions; others have restrictions. Arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot.
Yes, Nicol’s Paddock welcomes dogs. Policies usually cover outdoor areas only and expect dogs on a leash. Call ahead if you're bringing more than one, or if the weather is pushing everyone indoors.
Yes, Nicol’s Paddock is family-friendly and welcomes children. Kid-friendly estates tend to have space to move and something non-alcoholic on hand. Weekday visits are calmer than weekends.
Nicol’s Paddock is in Waurn Ponds, Victoria, in the Victoria wine region. Phone: 0432 085 404. Confirm hours before visiting. Winery schedules vary seasonally.
Nicol’s Paddock was established in 1997, giving the estate 29 years to develop its wine program and farming practices.
The winemaking at Nicol’s Paddock is led by Peter Nicol, Jack Nicol, Katherine Anderson. Visiting during special events or release weekends is often the best chance to meet the winemaking team and ask questions about specific vintages or techniques.
Nicol’s Paddock offers: Cellar Door Tasting and Restaurant Dining. Seated or guided experiences typically include more context about the wines and the estate's approach. Worth booking if you want depth over breadth.
Monday: Closed | Tuesday: Closed | Wednesday: Closed | Thursday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Hours may vary seasonally. Confirm by phone or on their website before visiting.
Yes, Nicol’s Paddock has outdoor seating. Availability is weather-dependent. Call ahead to confirm, particularly outside summer months.
Where to find Nicol’s Paddock
35 Waurn Ponds Dr Waurn Ponds, Victoria, Australia
