Wine Tasting Tours Near Melbourne: Memorable Adventures Await

Experience the Best of Victoria's Wine Region with Hassle-Free Transport

Situated just an hour from Melbourne, the stunning Yarra Valley is home to over 80 cellar doors producing some of Australia’s most exceptional cool-climate wines. This extraordinary area is renowned for its elegant Pinot Noir, premium Chardonnay, and exquisite traditional method sparkling wines. Immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of wine country in the Yarra Valley, where every sip tells a fascinating story.

Red Carpet Wine Tours offers a seamless journey into the heart of this wine paradise. Relish in carefully planned visits to exclusive wineries, enjoy tastings straight from the cellar door, and discover what sets Yarra Valley wines apart. Allow us to handle the driving, so you can forget about the hassle of finding a designated driver or navigating crowded bus tours. Enjoy a day filled with remarkable wines, breathtaking landscapes, and a tranquil ambiance.

What Awaits You on Your Wine Tasting Tour?

Participating in a wine tasting tour transcends mere wine sampling; it becomes an enlightening experience that unveils the intricate art of winemaking. Here’s a glimpse into what a typical tour day entails:

Engage with Passionate Winemakers At many cellar doors, enthusiastic staff guide you through tastings while sharing their deep-seated passion for wine. They provide valuable insights into the different varietals, vintage specifics, and the unique characteristics that distinguish each wine. Don't hesitate to engage with them and ask questions; their eagerness to share their knowledge and excitement is palpable.

Discover a Diverse Range of Over 20 Wine Varieties Throughout your adventure, expect to visit 4-5 wineries, allowing you to sample an impressive array of styles—from refreshing whites and fragrant rosés to robust reds and sophisticated sparkling wines. Generally, each cellar door presents 4-6 wines per tasting, ensuring a thorough and enjoyable experience.

Explore Wine Knowledge at Your Own Pace Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned connoisseur, our tours cater to all levels of wine lovers. Anticipate a friendly atmosphere where the spotlight is on relishing exceptional wine and enjoying delightful company, free from any pretentiousness.

Delight in a Scenic Lunch Experience Most tours include a charming lunch break at a winery restaurant, where you can pair local wines with seasonal dishes. Be it a relaxed meal at Domaine Chandon or a casual dining experience at Hubert Estate, eating amidst the vineyards elevates your overall enjoyment.

Bring Home Your Favourite Wines If you stumble across a particular wine that captures your heart, most cellar doors provide bottles for purchase, frequently at exclusive cellar door prices. We supply chilled coolers on board to keep your selections secure and fresh during your journey.

Discover Our Unique 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 seeking a curated adventure in the Yarra Valley.

Your tour includes the following:

• Convenient pickup from Federation Square at 9am, returning around 5pm
• Tastings at five prestigious 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, which includes all tastings.

Customised Private Wine Tasting Tours Tailored to Your Preferences

Are you excited to select your favourite wineries? Whether you are planning a birthday, hens day, or any special occasion, our private tours allow you to completely 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 that fits your mood

What we offer:

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

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

Savour the Exceptional Wines of the Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is celebrated for its outstanding cool-climate wines, which stand shoulder to shoulder with the finest in the global market. Here’s a sneak peek of what you can expect at the cellar doors:

• Pinot Noir This grape variety epitomises the Yarra Valley’s signature red wine. It is known for its elegance, earthy undertones, and a well-balanced flavour profile—truly a quintessential Australian Pinot.
• Chardonnay The Yarra Valley boasts a wide selection of Chardonnay styles, ranging from crisp and mineral to rich and creamy. Many wineries showcase single-vineyard and reserve selections that accentuate 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 bubbly delights are perfect for celebrations, whether for a special occasion or just to brighten a Tuesday evening.
• Cabernet Sauvignon Renowned for its robust structure, Yarra Valley Cabernet features dark fruit flavours, fine tannins, and remarkable aging potential, making it a preferred choice among wine aficionados.
• Other Varietals Additionally, you’ll discover Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Nebbiolo, and more—particularly from boutique producers experimenting with Italian and French varietals.

Wineries Featured in Our Exceptional Tours

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

• Soumah of Yarra Valley A boutique winery that focuses on Italian varietals. Immerse yourself in breathtaking views, a relaxed trattoria atmosphere, and exclusive wines that cannot be found elsewhere.
• Hubert Estate (St Huberts Cellar Door) A historic venue featuring a modern cellar door, an indigenous art gallery, and the exceptional Quarters Restaurant, making it perfect for a delightful lunch.
• Balgownie Estate Our final destination, celebrated for its expansive views, outstanding wines, and a relaxed atmosphere to conclude your afternoon.
• Domaine Chandon Australia’s premier sparkling wine producer, featured as a lunch stop on our daily tour or included in private tours.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie While not a winery, it remains a beloved stop. Engage in guided chocolate tastings, gelato, and an array of treats to purchase and take home.

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

Who Are Our Wine Tasting Tours Ideal For?

• Solo Travellers If you are exploring Melbourne independently, our daily tour presents the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow wine enthusiasts, enjoy shared meals, and experience a fun day out without the stress of planning.
• Couples A wine tasting tour creates an unforgettable date experience. Enjoy exquisite wines, stunning scenery, and the comfort of knowing there will be no arguments 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 thrilling 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 numerous corporate groups, nurturing 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.

Beyond Wine: Indulge in Culinary Delights, Chocolate & More

Wine tasting tours encompass much more than just sampling wine. The Yarra Valley is distinguished 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 acclaimed for their fine dining experiences. Zonzo Estate excels in delightful Italian cuisine, while Chandon adds a touch of French elegance.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Take part 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, lively farmers' markets, and local farm gates. Private tours may include visits to producers like Yarra Valley Dairy.
• Gin & Spirits If gin is more your style, several distilleries in the area offer tastings—these can be easily added to private tours.

Essential Information for Your Tour Experience

• Where do the tours start? 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 prior wine knowledge? Not at all. Our tours are designed for all levels of wine enthusiasts. Just bring your curiosity and a desire to learn.
• What should I wear? Smart casual attire is recommended. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking around various cellar doors and vineyards.
• Can I take wine home with me? Certainly! We provide chilled coolers on board to keep your purchases safe and fresh for the return journey.
• 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 Regarding Our Wine Tasting Tours

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

How many wines can I expect to taste? You will have the pleasure of sampling over 20 wines across 4-5 cellar doors throughout the day.

Should I make a reservation in advance? Yes, advance bookings are essential as tours often fill up quickly, particularly on weekends. Book online to secure your place.

Can I join if I don’t consume alcohol? Absolutely! Many stops provide 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 are held indoors at the cellar doors, so rain usually does not impact your experience.

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

How do daily tours differ from private tours? The daily tour follows a fixed itinerary with a set price, making it ideal for solo travellers and small groups. Private tours offer complete customisation—you select the wineries, pickup location, and the pace of your journey.

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