Wine Tasting Tours Near Melbourne: Unforgettable Experiences Await

Experience Victoria's Wine Paradise Effortlessly with Our Expert Tours

Located a mere hour from Melbourne, the stunning Yarra Valley boasts over 80 cellar doors that produce some of Australia’s most exquisite cool-climate wines. This extraordinary region is renowned for its elegant Pinot Noir, exceptional Chardonnay, and superb traditional method sparkling wines. Immerse yourself in the authentic essence of wine country in the Yarra Valley, where every glass tells a unique and captivating story.

Red Carpet Wine Tours offers a seamless journey into the heart of this wine haven. Enjoy visits to exclusive wineries, indulge in tastings straight from the cellar door, and discover what sets Yarra Valley wines apart. With us, you can forget about the hassle of driving, eliminating the need for a designated driver or crowded buses. Delight in a day filled with exceptional wine, breathtaking landscapes, and a tranquil atmosphere.

What Can You Anticipate During Your Wine Tasting Tour?

Embarking on a wine tasting tour is much more than merely sampling fine wines; it is a rich experience that unveils the artistry of winemaking. Here’s an overview of what a typical day entails:

Engage with Passionate Winemakers At most cellar doors, knowledgeable staff guide you through tastings, sharing their genuine passion for wine. They provide insights into various varietals, details about the vintage, and what makes each wine distinct. Feel free to engage and pose questions; they are eager to share their expertise and enthusiasm.

Discover Over 20 Varieties of Wine Throughout your journey, you will visit 4-5 wineries, where you can sample an impressive array of styles—from refreshing whites and aromatic rosés to robust reds and refined sparkling wines. Typically, each cellar door presents 4-6 wines per tasting, ensuring a comprehensive and expansive experience.

Enjoy Learning About Wine at Your Own Pace Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned wine enthusiast, our tours cater to all levels of wine lovers. Expect a friendly atmosphere that emphasises enjoying exceptional wine and delightful company without any pretentiousness.

Relish Lunch Amidst Breathtaking Views Most tours include a charming lunch stop at a winery restaurant, enabling you to pair local wines with seasonal dishes. Whether you choose a leisurely lunch at Domaine Chandon or a relaxed meal at Hubert Estate, dining amongst the vineyards heightens your overall experience.

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

Explore Our Exclusive Wine Tasting Tours Tailored for You

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

This is our most sought-after option, ideal 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 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

All this is available for just $109 per person, including all tastings.

Customised Private Wine Tasting Tours Designed 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 customise your experience.

Here’s what you can customise:

• 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 the playlist to match your mood

What we provide for your tour:

• A stress-free, fully hosted experience tailored to your preferences
• 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 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 Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is celebrated for its remarkable cool-climate wines, which are comparable to the finest in the globe. Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you at the cellar doors:

• Pinot Noir This grape variety epitomises the Yarra Valley’s signature red wine. It is distinguished by its elegance, earthy undertones, and a harmonious flavour profile—truly a quintessential Australian Pinot.
• Chardonnay The Yarra Valley presents a diverse selection of Chardonnay styles, ranging from crisp and mineral to rich and creamy. Numerous wineries feature single-vineyard and reserve selections that showcase 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 delicacies 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, refined tannins, and excellent ageing potential, making it a preferred choice among wine connoisseurs.
• Other Varietals Additionally, you’ll come across Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Nebbiolo, and more—especially from boutique producers experimenting with Italian and French varietals.

Wineries Featured in Our Expertly Curated Tours

Our daily tours include a meticulously selected lineup of the valley’s finest cellar doors:

• Soumah of Yarra Valley A boutique winery focusing on Italian varietals. Immerse yourself in stunning views, a relaxed trattoria atmosphere, and exclusive wines unavailable elsewhere.
• Hubert Estate (St Huberts Cellar Door) A historic location featuring a contemporary cellar door, an indigenous art gallery, and the exceptional Quarters Restaurant, perfect for a delightful lunch.
• Balgownie Estate Our final stop, known for its expansive views, outstanding wines, and a relaxed atmosphere to conclude your afternoon.
• Domaine Chandon Australia’s leading 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. Enjoy 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 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 offers a perfect opportunity to connect with fellow wine enthusiasts, share meals, and enjoy a fun day out without the stress of planning.
• Couples A wine tasting tour creates a memorable date experience. Savour exquisite wines, stunning scenery, and the assurance that there will be no disagreements about the driving arrangements.
• 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, client entertainment, or end-of-year celebrations, we cater to numerous corporate groups, fostering a professional yet relaxed atmosphere that is consistently 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: Explore Culinary Delights, Chocolate & More

Wine tasting tours encompass more than just wine sampling. The Yarra Valley is distinguished 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 renowned for their fine dining experiences. Zonzo Estate excels in delightful Italian cuisine, while Chandon adds a touch of French elegance.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Engage in a guided tasting of over 10 chocolates, alongside gelato, hot chocolate, and a store 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 such as Yarra Valley Dairy.
• Gin & Spirits If you prefer gin over wine, several distilleries in the region offer tastings—these can be effortlessly incorporated into private tours.

Essential Information for Your Tour Experience

• Where do tours depart from? Our daily tour leaves 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 needs.
• 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 passion 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 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 includes return transport from Federation Square, tastings at five locations (including wineries and chocolatier), and chilled coolers on board. Lunch is a pay-as-you-go option.

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.

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? 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 take place indoors at the cellar doors, so rain typically does not detract from 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 distinguishes 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 people.