Wine Tasting Tours Near Melbourne: Memorable Experiences Await

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

Just a short drive of approximately an hour from Melbourne, the stunning Yarra Valley boasts over 80 cellar doors, all dedicated to producing some of Australia's most exceptional cool-climate wines. This extraordinary region is renowned for its elegant Pinot Noir, premium Chardonnay, and exquisite traditional method sparkling wines. Discover the authentic spirit of wine country in the Yarra Valley, where each glass tells an enchanting story and reveals the passion behind the craft.

Red Carpet Wine Tours offers a seamless journey into the heart of this captivating wine region. Enjoy meticulously planned visits to exclusive wineries, indulge in tastings straight from the cellar door, and gain insights into what sets Yarra Valley wines apart. Leave the driving to our professional guides, eliminating the need for a designated driver or overcrowded bus tours. Immerse yourself in a day filled with remarkable wines, breathtaking vistas, and a tranquil atmosphere that enhances your experience.

What Can You Anticipate During Your Wine Tasting Tour?

Participating in a wine tasting tour transcends mere sampling of fine wines; it encompasses a rich experience that unveils the intricate art of winemaking. Here’s a glimpse of what a typical day entails:

Engage with Passionate Winemakers At most cellar doors, you'll find knowledgeable staff who guide you through tastings while sharing their fervour for wine. They provide insights into various varietals, details about the vintage, and the unique characteristics that make each wine special. Feel free to engage with them and ask questions, as they genuinely enjoy sharing their expertise and enthusiasm.

Dive into Over 20 Varieties of Wine As you traverse the region, you will visit 4-5 wineries, where you can savour an impressive range of styles—from refreshing whites and aromatic rosés to bold reds and refined sparkling wines. Each cellar door typically presents 4-6 wines per tasting, ensuring a thorough and enriching experience.

Discover Wine Knowledge at Your Own Pace Whether you're a novice or a seasoned wine enthusiast, our tours are designed to accommodate all levels of wine lovers. Expect a welcoming environment where the emphasis is on enjoying exquisite wines and delightful company, free from any pretentiousness.

Savour Lunch Amidst Scenic Surroundings Most tours incorporate a charming 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 enhances your overall experience significantly.

Take Home Your Favourite Wines Did you stumble upon a wine that captured your heart? Most cellar doors allow you to purchase bottles, often at exclusive cellar door prices. We provide chilled coolers on board to ensure your selections stay safe and fresh throughout your journey.

Discover Our Tailored Wine Tasting Tour Options

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 seeking a curated experience in the Yarra Valley.

What’s included in your tour:

• Convenient pickup from Federation Square at 9 am, returning around 5 pm
• 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 breathtaking vineyard views
• 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.

Customised Private Wine Tasting Tours Designed for You

Are you excited to select your preferred wineries? Whether you're planning a birthday celebration, hens day, or any special event, our private tours offer you the flexibility to fully customise your experience.

Here’s what you can arrange:

• Select the wineries you wish to visit (up to five stops)
• Choose your pickup location (we come to you for convenience)
• Determine your preferred start time and pace
• Curate a playlist to match your vibe

What we provide:

• A stress-free, fully hosted experience tailored to your requirements
• Luxury Mercedes vehicles accommodating groups of up to 14 individuals
• 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 wines 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.

Savour the Outstanding Wines of the Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is renowned for its exceptional cool-climate wines, which stand shoulder to shoulder with the best globally. Here’s a sneak peek of what awaits you at the cellar doors:

• Pinot Noir This grape variety embodies the Yarra Valley’s signature red wine. It is celebrated for its elegance, earthy nuances, and a well-balanced flavour profile—truly a quintessential representation of Australian Pinot.
• Chardonnay The Yarra Valley presents a diverse array of Chardonnay styles, ranging from crisp and mineral to rich and creamy. Numerous 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 finest Champagne. These effervescent delights are perfect for celebrations, whether for a momentous occasion or a casual Tuesday evening.
• Cabernet Sauvignon Renowned for its robust structure, Yarra Valley Cabernet showcases dark fruit flavours, fine tannins, and remarkable ageing potential, making it a preferred choice among wine aficionados.
• Other Varietals Additionally, you’ll encounter Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Nebbiolo, and more—particularly from boutique producers experimenting with Italian and French varietals.

Wineries Showcased in Our Tours

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

• Soumah of Yarra Valley A boutique winery specialising in Italian varietals. Immerse yourself in stunning views, a relaxed trattoria atmosphere, and exclusive wines that are not available elsewhere.
• Hubert Estate (St Huberts Cellar Door) A historic estate featuring a contemporary cellar door, an indigenous art gallery, and the exceptional Quarters Restaurant, perfect for a delightful lunch.
• Balgownie Estate Our final destination, renowned for its sweeping views, outstanding wines, and a relaxed atmosphere 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 While not a winery, it remains a beloved stop. Enjoy guided chocolate tastings, gelato, and a range of 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 Is Well-Suited to Enjoy Our Wine Tasting Tours?

• Solo Travellers If you are exploring Melbourne independently, our daily tour offers the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow wine enthusiasts, enjoy shared meals, and experience a joyful day out without the hassle of planning.
• Couples A wine tasting tour creates an unforgettable date experience. Relish exquisite wines, stunning scenery, and the peace of mind that comes with not having to worry about who will drive 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, ensuring everyone has a memorable time.
• Corporate Groups For team-building activities, client entertainment, or end-of-year celebrations, we cater to numerous corporate groups, fostering a professional yet relaxed atmosphere that is always appreciated.
• 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 for its unique offerings.

Beyond Wine: Uncover Culinary Delights, Chocolate & More

Wine tasting tours provide more than just wine sampling. The Yarra Valley stands out as a culinary destination in its own right, offering a plethora of flavours and experiences.

• Winery Restaurants Many cellar doors boast remarkable 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 adds a touch of French elegance to its offerings.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Engage in a guided tasting of over 10 chocolates, alongside gelato, hot chocolate, and an array of delicious treats available for purchase. This experience is included in our daily tour, enhancing your culinary journey.
• Cheese & Artisan Produce The region is home to artisan cheesemakers, vibrant farmers' markets, and local farm gates, making it a haven for food lovers. Private tours may include visits to producers like Yarra Valley Dairy, providing an authentic taste of the area.
• Gin & Spirits For those who prefer gin over wine, several distilleries in the region offer tastings, which can be seamlessly incorporated into private tours, adding to the diverse experience.

Essential Information for Your Tour Experience

• Where do tours commence? Our daily tour departs from Federation Square (outside the Ian Potter Centre) at 9 am sharp. Private tours can pick you up from your chosen location, ensuring convenience.
• What is the duration of the tour? The daily tour returns to Melbourne around 5 pm. Private tours offer flexible timing—most typically run from 9 am to 5 pm, but we can adjust according to your preferences.
• Do I need to have prior wine knowledge? Not at all. Our tours are designed to cater to all levels of wine enthusiasts. Just bring your curiosity and a love for learning.
• 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 secure and fresh for your 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 to have something on hand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Wine Tasting Tours

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

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, ensuring a wide-ranging experience.

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 and avoid disappointment.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol? Definitely! Many stops offer non-alcoholic options, and the scenery, food, and chocolate experiences alone are well worth the visit.

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

Are the tours accessible for wheelchair users? Most wineries we visit are wheelchair accessible. Please contact us ahead of time, 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 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 individuals.