THE Mornington Peninsula’s wine community is mourning the loss of Nat White, who alongside his wife, Rosalie, established Main Ridge Estate in 1975.
Nat passed away on 20 June after a long battle with Parkinsons disease.
Rosalie said Nat’s journey was a joyous one full of friends, explorations, and celebrations.
“Our family is overwhelmed by the hundreds of messages of support and friendship we have already received as we come to terms with the loss of our beautiful man,” said Rosalie.
She said Main Ridge Estate began as Nat’s dream of living away from traffic and chaos and among nature.
“As the vineyard developed, so did our appreciation of the rhythm of life,” said Rosalie.
“Spring, a season of promise and new beginnings; summer, long days of toil; autumn, a season of fruitfulness; and winter, a time of mists and quiet peacefulness.”
Over five decades, Nat went beyond just establishing Main Ridge Estate. He was a pioneer of cool-climate winemaking, a founding member of the Mornington Peninsula Vignerons Association, and a mentor.
Richard McIntyre of Moorooduc Estate said he sought Nat’s help when making his first wines.
“I said, ‘I have no idea how to make wine.’ Nat said, ‘I will hold your hand.’ He did for many years,” said McIntyre.
Nat was known for his generosity and willingness to support others, helping foster the collaborative spirit of the peninsula’s wine community.
Martin Spedding of Ten Minutes By Tractor said Nat was “a giant in the story and development of Mornington Peninsula wine”.
Nat helped guide countless vineyard owners and winemakers, including Montalto Winery founder John Mitchell.
“Throughout our journey Nat and Rose offered their generous support, encouragement and wisdom,” said Mitchell.
“Unwavering, loyal, gentle and strong.”
Current Main Ridge Estate winemaker James Sexton, whose family took over the estate in 2015, said when faced with a difficult decision, he still asks himself, “What would Nat do?”.
“His influence on generations of winemakers is immeasurable,” said Sexton.
Gary Crittenden of Crittenden Wines said Nat was the regions “acknowledged technical leader and founding father”.
“Whenever I had a problem, I went straight to Nat – problem solved,” said Crittenden.
In 2017, Nat was awarded an Order of Australia medal for his significant service to the Australian wine industry.
Nat is survived by Rosalie, their children Dominic and Annalise, and their families. A private cremation will be held, and a celebration of Nat’s life will be announced at a later date.
First published in the Mornington News – 30 June 2026
