Wine Tasting Tours Near Melbourne: Unforgettable Experiences Await

Discover the Allure of Victoria's Wine Country with Effortless Travel Experiences

Situated merely an hour from Melbourne, the breathtaking Yarra Valley boasts over 80 cellar doors, each dedicated to crafting some of Australia’s most exquisite cool-climate wines. This remarkable region has gained acclaim for its sophisticated Pinot Noir, exceptional Chardonnay, and outstanding traditional method sparkling wines. Experience the genuine essence of wine country in the Yarra Valley, where the story of each wine unfolds with every sip, inviting you to indulge and relish the moment.

Red Carpet Wine Tours provides a seamless and unforgettable journey into the heart of this magnificent wine region. Enjoy thoughtfully curated visits to exclusive wineries, partake in tastings directly from the cellar door, and gain a deeper understanding of what elevates Yarra Valley wines to such heights. Let us take care of the driving, allowing you to relax without the worry of finding a designated driver or navigating busy bus tours. Immerse yourself in a day filled with exceptional wines, stunning landscapes, and a serene atmosphere.

What Can You Expect During Your Wine Tasting Tour Experience?

Participating in a wine tasting tour transcends merely sampling exquisite wines; it is an enriching journey that unveils the intricate art of winemaking. Here’s an overview of what a typical day on the tour entails:

Engage with Passionate Winemakers At every cellar door, knowledgeable staff guide you through tastings, sharing their enthusiasm and expertise about the wines. They provide invaluable insights into the various varietals, specific vintages, and the unique characteristics of each wine. Do not hesitate to ask questions; they are more than willing to share their knowledge and passion with you.

Sample Over 20 Unique Wine Varieties Throughout your adventure, you will visit 4-5 distinguished wineries, where you can taste an impressive assortment of styles—from refreshing whites and aromatic rosés to bold reds and elegant sparkling wines. Typically, each cellar door offers 4-6 wines per tasting, ensuring a diverse and satisfying experience for all.

Explore the World of Wine at Your Own Pace Our tours are designed to welcome all wine lovers, regardless of their experience level. Expect a warm and friendly atmosphere where the focus lies on enjoying exceptional wine and delightful company, free from any snobbery or pretentiousness.

Savour Lunch Amidst Picturesque Settings Most tours include a charming lunch stop at a winery restaurant, allowing you to pair local wines with seasonal culinary delights. Whether you opt for a leisurely meal at Domaine Chandon or a relaxed lunch at Hubert Estate, dining amongst the vineyards will undeniably enhance your overall experience.

Take Home Your Favourite Wines Did you discover a wine that particularly enchanted you? 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 throughout your journey.

Explore Our Exclusive Wine Tasting Tour Packages

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

This is our most popular option, perfect for solo travellers, couples, and small groups seeking a tailored experience in the Yarra Valley.

What’s Included in Your Tour:

• Convenient pickup from Federation Square at 9am, returning around 5pm
• Tastings at five esteemed 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 stunning 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 of this is available for just $109 per person, with all tastings included.

Personalised Private Wine Tasting Tours Designed for Your Unique Preferences

Are you excited to choose your favourite wineries? Whether you are organising a birthday celebration, a hens day, or a special occasion, our private tours offer the flexibility to tailor your ideal experience.

Here’s what you can customise:

• Choose the wineries you wish to visit (up to five stops)
• Select your preferred pickup location (we come to you)
• Decide on your start time and pace
• Curate the playlist to match your mood

What We Deliver:

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

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

Delight in the Exceptional Wines of Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is celebrated for its extraordinary cool-climate wines, which stand proudly alongside the finest globally. Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you at the cellar doors:

• Pinot Noir This grape variety exemplifies the Yarra Valley’s signature red wine. It is lauded for its elegance, earthy undertones, and harmonious flavour profile—truly a quintessential Australian Pinot.
• Chardonnay The Yarra Valley offers a wide range of Chardonnay styles, from crisp and mineral to rich and creamy. Numerous wineries feature single-vineyard and reserve selections that highlight the region's exceptional terroir.
• Sparkling Wine Home to Domaine Chandon, the Yarra Valley produces traditional method sparkling wines that rival the finest Champagne. These effervescent creations are perfect for celebrations, whether for a landmark event or a casual evening.
• Cabernet Sauvignon Renowned for its robust structure, Yarra Valley Cabernet showcases dark fruit flavours, fine tannins, and exceptional ageing potential, making it a favourite among wine aficionados.
• Other Varietals Additionally, you’ll encounter Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Nebbiolo, and more—especially from boutique producers experimenting with Italian and French varietals.

Wineries Featured in Our Tours

Our daily tour includes a carefully selected array of the valley’s top cellar doors:

• Soumah of Yarra Valley A boutique winery celebrated for its Italian varietals. Immerse yourself in stunning views, a relaxed trattoria atmosphere, and exclusive wines that are unavailable elsewhere.
• Hubert Estate (St Huberts Cellar Door) A historic estate with a modern cellar door, an indigenous art gallery, and the exceptional Quarters Restaurant, perfect for a delightful lunch.
• Balgownie Estate Our final stop, renowned for its expansive vistas, outstanding wines, and a laid-back atmosphere to conclude your afternoon.
• Domaine Chandon Australia’s foremost sparkling wine producer, included as a lunch stop on our daily tour or featured in private tours.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie While not a winery, it remains a crowd favourite. Indulge in guided chocolate tastings, gelato, and a variety of treats available for purchase.

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 Wine Tasting Tours?

• Solo Travellers If you are exploring Melbourne on your own, our daily tour provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with other wine lovers, enjoy shared meals, and have a delightful day out without the stress of planning.
• Couples A wine tasting tour creates a memorable experience for dates. Relish exquisite wines, stunning views, and the peace of mind that you won’t argue over who drives home.
• Groups of Friends Whether it’s a casual catch-up or a birthday celebration, a wine tasting adventure with friends is always an excellent choice. Our private tours cater to groups of any size.
• Corporate Groups For team-building, client entertainment, or year-end parties, we accommodate various corporate groups, creating a professional yet relaxed atmosphere that is always well received.
• Visitors to Melbourne If you have a spare day and wish to venture beyond the city limits, this is the day trip that locals consistently recommend.

Beyond Wine: Indulge in Culinary Delights, Chocolate & More

Wine tasting tours provide much more than just wine sampling. The Yarra Valley is recognised as a culinary destination in its own right.

• Winery Restaurants Many cellar doors feature outstanding on-site dining options. Oakridge, Yering Station, and Levantine Hill are celebrated for their fine dining experiences. Zonzo Estate excels in delightful Italian cuisine, while Chandon brings a touch of French sophistication.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Participate in a guided tasting of over 10 chocolates, complemented by gelato, hot chocolate, and a shop filled with delectable treats. This experience is included in our daily tour.
• Cheese & Artisan Produce The region boasts artisan cheesemakers, vibrant farmers' markets, and local farm gates. Private tours may include visits to producers like Yarra Valley Dairy.
• Gin & Spirits If you prefer gin over wine, several distilleries in the region offer tastings—these can easily be 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 chosen 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 based on your needs.
• 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 exploring 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 home.
• 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 provides 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 during 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? Certainly! Many stops offer non-alcoholic options, and the scenery, food, and chocolate alone make the trip worthwhile.

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 hinder 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 ideal for solo travellers and small groups. Private tours are fully customisable—you select 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.