Destination: 'Ocean Eight, Mornington Peninsula’



Chris and Gail Aylward started producing wine on the Peninsula in 1997 when they established Kooyong. The focus was top quality wine that suited the climate of the Mornington Peninsula. Quality was maintained by controlling all aspects of production including vineyard management, winemaking and bottling. Kooyong was sold in 2004 to the owners of Port Phillip Estate.
In this same year the Aylwards started Ocean Eight, which was to grow into 17 hectares of vineyards dedicated to cool climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris fruit. The winery for Ocean Eight was built into the hillside at the family's property in Shoreham. Son Mike Aylward is now winemaker, aided by viticulturist Luke O’Conner.