Wine Tasting Tours Near Melbourne for Memorable Adventures

Experience the Finest of Victoria's Wine Region Hassle-Free

Located just an hour from Melbourne, the stunning Yarra Valley boasts over 80 cellar doors that produce some of Australia's most exceptional cool-climate wines. This extraordinary region is renowned for its refined Pinot Noir, outstanding Chardonnay, and exquisite traditional method sparkling wines. Immerse yourself in the authentic essence of wine country in the Yarra Valley, where each glass reveals a fascinating narrative.

Red Carpet Wine Tours offers a seamless journey into the heart of this wine paradise. Relish meticulously planned visits to exclusive wineries, enjoy tastings directly at the cellar door, and uncover the unique characteristics that set Yarra Valley wines apart. Let us handle the driving, removing the stress of finding a designated driver or dealing with crowded bus tours. Embrace a day filled with exceptional wine, breathtaking landscapes, and a tranquil ambiance.

What Awaits You on Your Wine Tasting Tour?

Joining a wine tasting tour transcends mere wine sampling; it is a fulfilling experience that unveils the intricate art of winemaking. Here’s a glimpse into what a typical day entails:

Engage with Enthusiastic Winemakers At most cellar doors, knowledgeable staff will guide you through tastings, sharing their passion for wine and insights into various varietals, the intricacies of the vintage, and what makes each wine distinctive. Feel free to interact and pose questions; they genuinely enjoy sharing their expertise and enthusiasm.

Sample an Impressive Selection of Wine Varieties Throughout your journey, you’ll visit 4-5 wineries, where you can taste a remarkable array of styles—from refreshing whites and aromatic rosés to bold reds and elegant sparkling wines. Typically, each cellar door presents 4-6 wines per tasting, ensuring a thorough and enriching experience.

Discover Wine Knowledge at Your Leisure Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned wine enthusiast, our tours are crafted to accommodate all levels of wine lovers. Anticipate a welcoming atmosphere focused on enjoying outstanding wine and amiable company, devoid of pretentiousness.

Savour Lunch Amidst Picturesque Surroundings Most tours feature a delightful 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 dining experience at Hubert Estate, enjoying a meal amidst the vineyards significantly enhances your overall experience.

Bring Home Your Favourite Wines Did you find a particular wine that captivated your palate? Most cellar doors offer bottles for sale, often at exclusive cellar door prices. We provide chilled coolers on board to ensure your selections stay safe and fresh during your journey.

Explore Our Exclusive Wine Tasting Tours

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

This is our most sought-after option, perfectly suited for solo adventurers, couples, and small groups in search of a curated 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 only $109 per person, with all tastings included.

Customised Private Wine Tasting Tours Just for You

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

Here’s what you can choose:

• 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 suit your mood

What we offer:

• A stress-free, fully hosted experience tailored to your specifications
• Luxury Mercedes vehicles accommodating groups of up to 14 people
• Access to larger buses and coaches for larger groups
• Expert local knowledge and personalized 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 getaways that include private tastings and scenic drives through the vineyards.

Delight in the Exceptional Wines of Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is renowned for its remarkable cool-climate wines, which stand among the finest globally. Here’s a sneak peek of what awaits you at the cellar doors:

• Pinot Noir This grape variety epitomizes the Yarra Valley’s signature red wine. It is celebrated for its elegance, earthy nuances, and harmonious flavour profile—truly a quintessential Australian Pinot.
• Chardonnay The Yarra Valley presents a diverse array of Chardonnay styles, from crisp and mineral to rich and creamy. Many wineries offer 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 finest Champagne. These effervescent delights are perfect for celebrations, whether for a special occasion or a casual Tuesday evening.
• Cabernet Sauvignon Known for its robust structure, Yarra Valley Cabernet showcases dark fruit flavours, fine tannins, and excellent aging potential, making it a favoured choice among wine connoisseurs.
• Other Varietals Additionally, you’ll discover Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Nebbiolo, and more—especially from boutique producers experimenting with Italian and French varietals.

Wineries Highlighted in Our Tours

Our daily tour includes a thoughtfully curated selection of the valley’s premier cellar doors:

• Soumah of Yarra Valley A boutique winery renowned for its Italian varietals. Immerse yourself in breathtaking views, a relaxed trattoria ambiance, and exclusive wines not available elsewhere.
• Hubert Estate (St Huberts Cellar Door) A historic property featuring a modern cellar door, an indigenous art gallery, and the exceptional Quarters Restaurant perfect for a delightful lunch.
• Balgownie Estate Our final stop, celebrated for its expansive views, outstanding wines, and a relaxed atmosphere to wrap up your afternoon.
• Domaine Chandon Australia’s leading producer of sparkling wines, included as a lunch stop on our daily tour or featured in private tours.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Although not a winery, it remains a crowd favourite. Enjoy guided chocolate tastings, gelato, and an array of treats available for purchase and to 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 Benefit from Our Wine Tasting Tours?

• Solo Travellers If you are exploring Melbourne independently, our daily tour presents the ideal opportunity to connect with fellow wine enthusiasts, enjoy shared meals, and have a delightful day out without the hassle of planning.
• Couples A wine tasting tour creates an unforgettable date experience. Indulge in exquisite wines, stunning scenery, and the assurance that there won’t be any disagreements about 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 a fantastic choice. Our private tours can accommodate groups of any size.
• Corporate Groups For team-building exercises, client entertainment, or year-end celebrations, we cater to numerous corporate groups, fostering a professional yet relaxed environment 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 that locals consistently recommend.

Beyond Wine: Discover Culinary Delights, Chocolate & More

Wine tasting tours offer much more than wine sampling. The Yarra Valley is also 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 fine dining experiences. Zonzo Estate excels in delightful Italian cuisine, while Chandon adds a touch of French elegance.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Participate in a guided tasting of over 10 chocolates, alongside gelato, hot chocolate, and a shop filled with delectable 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 like 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 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 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 passion for learning.
• What should I wear? Smart casual attire is recommended. Make sure to 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 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 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 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? Absolutely! Many stops offer non-alcoholic options, and the scenery, food, and chocolate alone are well 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 travelers and small groups. Private tours are fully customizable—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.