Wine Tasting Tours Near Melbourne for Memorable Adventures

Experience the Wonders of Victoria's Wine Region Effortlessly

Located merely an hour from Melbourne, the stunning Yarra Valley boasts over 80 cellar doors that produce some of Australia’s most distinguished cool-climate wines. This extraordinary area is renowned for its elegant Pinot Noir, exceptional Chardonnay, and remarkable traditional method sparkling wines. Discover the true essence of wine country in the Yarra Valley, where every sip tells a fascinating story of craftsmanship and dedication.

Red Carpet Wine Tours offers a seamless journey into the heart of the wine region. Relish in meticulously planned visits to exclusive wineries, indulge in tastings directly from the cellar door, and gain insights into what sets Yarra Valley wines apart. Leave the driving to us, ensuring you can fully enjoy your experience without the hassle of a designated driver or overcrowded bus tours. Immerse yourself in a day filled with exceptional wine, breathtaking vistas, and a tranquil atmosphere.

What Awaits You on Your Wine Tasting Tour?

Participating in a wine tasting tour transcends merely sampling exquisite wines; it’s an immersive experience that unravels the craft of winemaking. Here’s what a typical day entails:

Engage with Passionate Winemakers At most cellar doors, knowledgeable staff guide you through tastings, sharing their enthusiasm for wine. They provide insights into the various varietals, vintage specifics, and what makes each wine distinctive. Don’t hesitate to ask questions; their passion and expertise make for an enriching experience.

Explore an Impressive Array of Wine Varieties Throughout your journey, you will visit 4-5 wineries, where you can sample a remarkable selection of styles—from refreshing whites and aromatic rosés to bold reds and refined sparkling wines. Typically, each cellar door presents 4-6 wines per tasting, ensuring a rich and comprehensive experience.

Learn About Wine at Your Own Pace Whether you are a novice or a seasoned connoisseur, our tours cater to all levels of wine enthusiasts. Expect a welcoming environment where the emphasis is on relishing outstanding wine and delightful company, free from any pretentiousness.

Savour Lunch Amidst Breathtaking Views Most tours include 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 meal at Hubert Estate, dining amidst the vineyards elevates your overall experience.

Take Home Your Favourite Wines Did you come across a particular wine that captivated your palate? Most cellar doors offer bottles for purchase, often at exclusive cellar door prices. We provide chilled coolers on board to ensure your selections remain protected and fresh during your journey.

Explore Our Unique Wine Tasting Tours

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

This option is our most popular choice, ideal for solo travellers, couples, and small groups seeking 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

This comprehensive experience is available for just $109 per person, encompassing all tastings.

Customised Private Wine Tasting Tours Just for You

Are you eager to select your preferred wineries? Planning a birthday, hens day, or a special celebration? Our private tours enable you to completely tailor your experience to your desires.

Here’s what you can choose:

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

What we offer:

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

Popular ideas for private tours include:
• Birthday celebrations featuring sparkling wine and a delightful lunch among 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 exquisite cool-climate wines, matching some of the best in the world. Here’s a glimpse of what you can anticipate at the cellar doors:

• Pinot Noir This grape variety exemplifies the Yarra Valley’s signature red wine. It is celebrated for its elegance, earthy nuances, and a balanced flavour profile—truly a quintessential Australian Pinot.
• Chardonnay The Yarra Valley features a diverse array of Chardonnay styles, ranging from crisp and mineral to rich and creamy. Numerous wineries offer single-vineyard and reserve selections that showcase the region's distinct terroir.
• Sparkling Wine Home to Domaine Chandon, the Yarra Valley produces traditional method sparkling wines that rival the finest Champagnes. These effervescent delights are perfect for celebrations, whether for a significant occasion or a casual Tuesday evening.
• Cabernet Sauvignon Known for its robust structure, Yarra Valley Cabernet showcases dark fruit flavours, fine tannins, and excellent ageing potential, making it a preferred choice among wine enthusiasts.
• Other Varietals Additionally, you will encounter Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Nebbiolo, and more—especially from boutique producers experimenting with Italian and French varietals.

Wineries Showcased in Our Tours

Our daily tour features a carefully 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 unavailable 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 experience.
• Balgownie Estate Our final stop is renowned for its expansive views, exceptional wines, and a relaxed atmosphere to conclude your afternoon.
• Domaine Chandon Australia’s leading 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 favourite among visitors. Enjoy guided chocolate tastings, gelato, and a selection of treats to purchase and take home.

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

Who Benefits from Our Wine Tasting Tours?

• Solo Travellers If you are discovering Melbourne on your own, our daily tour offers the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow wine aficionados, enjoy shared meals, and indulge in a fun day out without the stress of planning.
• Couples A wine tasting tour creates an unforgettable date experience. Enjoy exquisite wines, stunning landscapes, and the reassurance that there will be no disagreements about who drives back.
• 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 cater to groups of any size.
• Corporate Groups For team-building exercises, client entertainment, or year-end celebrations, we accommodate numerous corporate groups, fostering a professional yet laid-back atmosphere that is always appreciated.
• Visitors to Melbourne If you have a day to spare and want 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 present more than just wine sampling. The Yarra Valley is also celebrated as a culinary destination in its own right.

• Winery Restaurants Many cellar doors feature exceptional on-site dining options. Oakridge, Yering Station, and Levantine Hill are acclaimed for their fine dining experiences. Zonzo Estate excels in delectable Italian cuisine, while Chandon adds a touch of French sophistication.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Engage in a guided tasting of over 10 chocolates, alongside 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 such as Yarra Valley Dairy.
• Gin & Spirits If you prefer gin over wine, several distilleries in the area 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 timings—most typically run from 9am to 5pm, but we can adjust to suit 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. Ensure you wear comfortable footwear, as you will be walking around various cellar doors and vineyards.
• Can I take wine home with me? Absolutely! We provide 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 will enjoy sampling over 20 wines across 4-5 cellar doors throughout the day.

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

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol? Certainly! 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 conducted indoors at the cellar doors, so rain typically 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’ll ensure that the itinerary accommodates your needs.

What differentiates daily tours from private tours? The daily tour follows a predetermined 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? Absolutely! We offer private tours for couples as well as larger groups of up to 57 people.