June 24, 2026 — The Mornington Peninsula wine community is mourning the loss of pioneering winemaker and industry leader Nat White, who passed away peacefully on 20 June 2026 after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.
Together with his wife Rosalie, Nat established Main Ridge Estate in 1975, helping lay the foundations for what would become one of Australia’s most respected cool-climate wine regions.
A founding member of the Mornington Peninsula Vignerons Association and creator of the region’s first licensed winery, Nat was renowned not only for his winemaking skill but also for his generosity, mentorship and willingness to support others.
Reflecting on a chance meeting with Nat only weeks ago, Montalto Winery founder John Mitchell said:
“Throughout our journey Nat and Rose offered their generous support, encouragement and wisdom. Unwavering, loyal, gentle and strong.”
Over five decades, Nat helped guide countless vineyard owners and winemakers, sharing knowledge freely and helping establish the collaborative culture for which the Mornington Peninsula wine community is known today.
Richard McIntyre of Moorooduc Estate recalled seeking Nat’s help when preparing to make 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.”
Garry Crittenden of Crittenden Wines described Nat as the region’s “acknowledged technical leader and founding father”.
“Whenever I had a problem, I went straight to Nat — problem solved.”
Martin Spedding of Ten Minutes By Tractor described Nat as “a giant in the story and development of Mornington Peninsula wine” and credited him with helping create the remarkable collegiate spirit that remains a defining characteristic of the region.
His influence continues through the generations of winemakers he mentored. Current Main Ridge Estate winemaker James Sexton said:
“When faced with a difficult winemaking decision, I still find myself thinking, ‘What would Nat do?’ His influence on generations of winemakers is immeasurable.”
Rosalie White reflected on the life she and Nat built together at Main Ridge Estate.
“Main Ridge Estate began as Nat’s vague dream of living with the natural world, far removed from traffic chaos, concrete and air-conditioned surround sound. As the vineyard developed, so did our appreciation of the rhythm of life. 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.
Nat’s journey has been a joyous one, filled with friends, trials, triumphs, exploration 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.”
Nat was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in 2017 for significant service to the Australian wine industry.
He is survived by Rosalie, their children Dominic and Annalise, and their families.
A private cremation will be held, with a celebration of Nat’s life to be announced at a later date.
