Wine Tasting Tours Near Melbourne: Unforgettable Experiences Await

Experience the Splendour of Victoria's Wine Region Without the Stress of Driving

Located just an hour from Melbourne, the stunning Yarra Valley boasts over 80 cellar doors producing some of Australia’s finest cool-climate wines. This exceptional area is renowned for its elegant Pinot Noir, premium Chardonnay, and remarkable traditional method sparkling wines. Immerse yourself in the true spirit of wine country in the Yarra Valley, where each glass tells a unique and enchanting story.

With Red Carpet Wine Tours, enjoy a seamless exploration into the heart of wine country. Relish meticulously planned visits to exclusive wineries, indulge in tastings straight from the cellar door, and gain insights into the distinctive characteristics that define Yarra Valley wines. Let us take care of the driving, freeing you from the hassle of a designated driver or the discomfort of crowded bus tours. Enjoy a day filled with exceptional wine, breathtaking landscapes, and a tranquil atmosphere.

What Awaits You on Your Wine Tasting Tour?

Participating in a wine tasting tour transcends mere wine sampling; it is a rich experience that unveils the intricate art of winemaking. Here’s what you can expect during a typical day:

Engage with Passionate Winemakers At most cellar doors, knowledgeable staff guide you through tastings, sharing their fervour for wine. They provide valuable information on various varietals, details about the vintage, and what sets each wine apart. Feel free to engage and ask questions; they enjoy sharing their expertise and enthusiasm.

Discover Over 20 Wine Varieties Throughout your journey, you will visit 4-5 wineries, sampling an impressive array of styles—from refreshing whites and aromatic rosés to robust reds and refined sparkling wines. Each cellar door typically offers 4-6 wines per tasting, ensuring a thorough and enjoyable experience.

Learn About Wine at Your Own Leisure Whether you're a beginner or an experienced wine enthusiast, our tours are tailored to accommodate all levels of wine lovers. Expect a friendly atmosphere where the emphasis is on enjoying exceptional wine and delightful company, free from any pretentiousness.

Relish Lunch Amidst Scenic Vistas Most tours feature a pleasant lunch stop at a winery restaurant, allowing you to pair local wines with seasonal dishes. Whether you choose a leisurely lunch at Domaine Chandon or a casual meal at Hubert Estate, dining amidst the vineyards adds to your overall enjoyment.

Take Home Your Favourite Wines Have you found a wine that you absolutely adore? Most cellar doors offer bottles for sale, often at exclusive cellar door prices. We provide chilled coolers on board to ensure your selections remain safe and fresh during your journey.

Discover Our Tailored Wine Tasting Tours

Join Our Daily Yarra Valley Wine Tasting Tour for Just $109

This is our most sought-after option, ideal for solo explorers, couples, and small groups looking for a curated adventure in the Yarra Valley.

What’s included in your tour:

• Convenient pickup from Federation Square at 9am, returning around 5pm
• Tastings at five renowned cellar doors, including Soumah, Hubert Estate, and Balgownie Estate
• A delightful chocolate tasting experience at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie
• A lunch stop (pay as you go) featuring breathtaking views of the vineyards
• A small group format ensuring a relaxed and unhurried experience
• Chilled coolers on board for secure storage of your wine purchases

All this is available for just $109 per person, with all tastings included.

Customised Private Wine Tasting Tours Tailored to Your Preferences

Are you excited to select your preferred wineries? Planning a birthday, hens day, or another special celebration? Our private tours enable you to fully personalise your experience.

Here’s what you can customise:

• Select the wineries you wish to visit (up to five stops)
• Choose your pickup location (we come to you)
• Determine your start time and pace
• Curate a playlist to set the mood

What we offer:

• A hassle-free, fully hosted experience tailored to your needs
• Luxury Mercedes vehicles accommodating groups of up to 14 people
• Access to larger buses and coaches for larger gatherings
• Expert local knowledge and bespoke recommendations

Popular ideas for private tours include:
• Birthday celebrations featuring sparkling wine and a delightful lunch in the vines.
• Hens day tours offering cheese boards, picturesque photo opportunities, and bubbly drinks.
• Team building events with engaging wine games and exclusive access.
• Romantic escapades that include private tastings and scenic drives through the vineyards.

Savour the Exceptional Wines of the Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is celebrated for its exceptional cool-climate wines, which compete with the finest globally. Here’s a glimpse of what you can look forward to at the cellar doors:

• Pinot Noir This grape variety embodies the Yarra Valley’s signature red wine. It is famed for its elegance, earthy nuances, and a beautifully balanced flavour profile—truly a quintessential Australian Pinot.
• Chardonnay The Yarra Valley offers a diverse range of Chardonnay styles, from crisp and mineral to rich and creamy. Many wineries showcase single-vineyard and reserve selections that highlight the region's unique terroir.
• Sparkling Wine Home to Domaine Chandon, the Yarra Valley produces traditional method sparkling wines that rival the best Champagne. These effervescent delights are perfect for celebrations, whether for a special occasion or a casual Tuesday night.
• Cabernet Sauvignon Known for its robust structure, Yarra Valley Cabernet exhibits dark fruit flavours, fine tannins, and excellent aging potential, making it a favourite among wine enthusiasts.
• Other Varietals Additionally, you will discover Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Nebbiolo, and more—particularly from boutique producers experimenting with Italian and French varietals.

Wineries Featured in Our Exclusive Tours

Our daily tour includes a thoughtfully selected lineup of the valley’s premier cellar doors:

• Soumah of Yarra Valley A boutique winery focusing on Italian varietals. Immerse yourself in breathtaking views, a relaxed trattoria atmosphere, and exclusive wines unavailable elsewhere.
• Hubert Estate (St Huberts Cellar Door) A historic estate featuring a modern cellar door, an indigenous art gallery, and the splendid Quarters Restaurant ideal for a delightful lunch.
• Balgownie Estate Our final stop, celebrated for its expansive views, exceptional wines, and a relaxed environment to conclude your afternoon.
• Domaine Chandon Australia’s leading producer of sparkling wine, included as a lunch stop on our daily tour or featured in private tours.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Although not a winery, it remains a popular favourite. Enjoy guided chocolate tastings, gelato, and a selection of exquisite treats to purchase and take home.

For private tours, we can also visit additional wineries of your choice, including Oakridge, Yering Station, Rochford, Levantine Hill, De Bortoli, Zonzo Estate, and many more.

Who Can Enjoy Our Exceptional Wine Tasting Tours?

• Solo Adventurers If you are discovering Melbourne on your own, our daily tour is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow wine enthusiasts, enjoy shared meals, and have an exciting day out without the stress of planning.
• Couples A wine tasting tour creates a memorable date experience. Savor exquisite wines, stunning scenery, and the assurance that there will be no disputes over who drives home.
• Groups of Friends Whether it’s a relaxed catch-up or a birthday celebration, a wine tasting adventure with friends is always a great choice. Our private tours can accommodate groups of any size.
• Corporate Groups For team-building, client entertainment, or end-of-year celebrations, we cater to various corporate groups, fostering a professional yet relaxed atmosphere that is always well received.
• Visitors to Melbourne If you have a day to spare and wish to explore beyond the city limits, this is the day trip consistently recommended by locals.

Beyond Wine: Discover Culinary Delights, Chocolate & More

Wine tasting tours offer far more than just wine sampling. The Yarra Valley is also recognised as a culinary paradise in its own right.

• Winery Restaurants Many cellar doors feature exceptional on-site dining options. Oakridge, Yering Station, and Levantine Hill are renowned for their exquisite dining experiences. Zonzo Estate excels in delightful Italian cuisine, while Chandon adds a touch of French elegance to its offerings.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Participate in a guided tasting of over 10 chocolates, along with gelato, hot chocolate, and a shop filled with irresistible treats. This experience is included in our daily tour.
• Cheese & Artisan Produce The region is home to artisan cheesemakers, vibrant farmers' markets, and local farm gates. Private tours may include visits to producers such as Yarra Valley Dairy.
• Gin & Spirits If you prefer gin over wine, several distilleries in the region offer tastings—these can be seamlessly incorporated into private tours.

Essential Information for Your Tour Experience

• Where do tours commence? Our daily tour departs from Federation Square (outside the Ian Potter Centre) at 9am sharp. Private tours can pick you up from your preferred location.
• What is the duration of the tour? The daily tour returns to Melbourne around 5pm. Private tours offer flexible timing—most typically run from 9am to 5pm, but we can adjust according to your preferences.
• Do I need to have prior wine knowledge? Not at all. Our tours cater to all levels of wine enthusiasts. Just bring your curiosity and a desire to learn.
• What should I wear? Smart casual attire is recommended. Ensure you wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking around various cellar doors and vineyards.
• Can I take wine home with me? Absolutely! We have chilled coolers on board to keep your purchases safe and fresh for the journey back.
• Is lunch included in the tour package? Lunch is a pay-as-you-go option at the venue. Feel free to bring your own snacks if you prefer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Wine Tasting Tours

What’s included in the $109 daily tour? Your ticket covers return transport from Federation Square, tastings at five venues (including wineries and chocolatier), and chilled coolers on board. Lunch is pay-as-you-go.

How many wines will I have the opportunity to taste? You’ll enjoy sampling over 20 wines across 4-5 cellar doors throughout the day.

Should I book in advance? Yes, advance bookings are essential since tours often fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Book online to secure your spot.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol? Absolutely! Many stops offer non-alcoholic options, and the scenery, food, and chocolate alone are more than worth the trip.

What if it rains on the day of the tour? Our tours will proceed regardless of weather conditions. Tastings take place indoors at the cellar doors, so rain typically does not affect your experience.

Are the tours accessible for wheelchair users? Most wineries we visit are wheelchair accessible. Please contact us in advance, and we’ll ensure that the itinerary accommodates your requirements.

What differentiates daily tours from private tours? The daily tour follows a set itinerary with a fixed price, making it perfect for solo travellers and small groups. Private tours are fully customisable—you choose the wineries, pickup location, and the pace of your adventure.

Can I book a private tour for just the two of us? Yes! We offer private tours for couples as well as larger groups of up to 57 people.