Wine Tasting Tours Near Melbourne for Unforgettable Experiences

Discover the Ultimate Yarra Valley Wine Tour Experience with Seamless Travel Solutions

Nestled just an hour away from Melbourne, the breathtaking Yarra Valley boasts over 80 cellar doors dedicated to crafting some of Australia’s most exquisite cool-climate wines. This remarkable region is particularly famous for its refined Pinot Noir, exceptional Chardonnay, and outstanding traditional method sparkling wines. Immerse yourself in the genuine essence of wine country in the Yarra Valley, where each glass reveals a captivating tale waiting to be enjoyed.

Red Carpet Wine Tours facilitates a flawless journey into the heart of this magnificent wine region. Relish in meticulously curated visits to exclusive wineries, indulge in tastings straight from the cellar door, and uncover the secrets behind what makes Yarra Valley wines truly exceptional. With us managing the transportation, you can set aside the worries of finding a designated driver or contending with crowded bus tours. Dive into a day filled with remarkable wines, stunning landscapes, and a serene atmosphere.

What Can You Expect During Your Wine Tasting Tour?

Participating in a wine tasting tour transcends mere wine sampling; it is an enlightening journey that reveals the intricate art of winemaking. Here’s an overview of what a typical day on the tour entails:

Engage with Passionate Winemakers At every cellar door, knowledgeable staff guide you through tastings, sharing their fervour and expertise about the wines. They provide invaluable insights into the various varietals, vintage details, and distinctive characteristics of each wine. Feel free to ask questions; they are always keen to impart their knowledge and passion with you.

Savour Over 20 Unique Wine Varieties Throughout your journey, you will visit 4-5 wineries, where you can sample an impressive assortment of styles—from refreshing whites and aromatic rosés to full-bodied reds and sophisticated sparkling wines. Generally, each cellar door offers 4-6 wines per tasting, ensuring a diverse and satisfying experience for all.

Explore the World of Wine at Your Own Pace Regardless of your level of experience, our tours are designed to cater to all wine lovers. Anticipate a welcoming environment where the emphasis is on enjoying exceptional wine and delightful company, free from any pretentiousness.

Relish Lunch Surrounded by Scenic Vistas Most tours include a delightful lunch stop at a winery restaurant, allowing you to pair local wines with seasonal culinary delights. Whether you opt for a leisurely meal at Domaine Chandon or a casual dining experience at Hubert Estate, enjoying your meal amidst the vineyards will undoubtedly enhance your overall visit.

Take Home Your Favourite Selections Did you stumble upon a wine that particularly enchanted you? Most cellar doors offer bottles for sale, often at exclusive cellar door prices. We provide chilled coolers on board to ensure your selections remain safe and fresh throughout your journey.

Explore Our Tailored Wine Tasting Tour Options

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

This is our most popular choice, perfect for solo adventurers, couples, and small groups seeking a bespoke experience in the Yarra Valley.

What’s Included in Your Tour:

• 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 stunning views of the vineyards
• A small group format ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable 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.

Personalised Private Wine Tasting Tours Designed Just for You

Are you thrilled at the prospect of choosing your favourite wineries? Whether you're organising a birthday celebration, a hens day, or a special event, our private tours offer the flexibility to create your perfect experience.

Here’s what you can customise:

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

What We Provide:

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

Popular concepts for private tours include:
• Birthday celebrations featuring sparkling wine and a delightful vineyard lunch.
• Hens day tours with cheese boards, stunning photo spots, and bubbly drinks.
• Corporate team-building events with fun wine games and exclusive access.
• Romantic escapades that include private tastings and picturesque drives through the vineyards.

Relish the Exceptional Wines of Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is celebrated for its outstanding cool-climate wines, rivalling the best in the world. 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 renowned for its elegance, earthy undertones, and well-balanced flavour profile—truly a quintessential Australian Pinot.
• Chardonnay The Yarra Valley offers a diverse range of Chardonnay styles, from crisp and mineral to rich and creamy. Numerous wineries feature single-vineyard and reserve selections that highlight the region's exceptional 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 milestone event or a casual evening.
• Cabernet Sauvignon Known for its robust structure, Yarra Valley Cabernet showcases dark fruit flavours, refined tannins, and excellent ageing potential, making it a popular choice among wine connoisseurs.
• 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 Featured in Our Tours

Our daily tour includes a carefully selected array of the valley’s finest cellar doors:

• Soumah of Yarra Valley A boutique winery celebrated for its Italian varietals. Engage in breathtaking views, a relaxed trattoria vibe, and unique wines that you won’t find 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 stop, renowned for its expansive views, exquisite wines, and a relaxed environment 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 favourite. Enjoy guided chocolate tastings, gelato, and a variety of treats to take home.

For private tours, we can also include additional wineries of your choice, such as Oakridge, Yering Station, Rochford, Levantine Hill, De Bortoli, Zonzo Estate, and many more.

Who Can Enjoy Our Wine Tasting Tours?

• Solo Travellers If you are exploring Melbourne solo, our daily tour presents the ideal chance to connect with fellow wine enthusiasts, share meals, and enjoy a day out without the stress of planning.
• Couples A wine tasting tour provides a memorable date experience. Indulge in exquisite wines, gorgeous views, and the comfort of knowing you won't argue about who drives home.
• Groups of Friends Whether it's a casual get-together 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, client entertainment, or end-of-year parties, we serve numerous corporate groups, creating a professional yet relaxed atmosphere that is always appreciated.
• Visitors to Melbourne If you have a free day and wish to venture beyond the city, this is the day trip that locals consistently recommend.

Beyond Wine: Delight in Culinary Experiences, Chocolate & More

Wine tasting tours offer much more than just wine sampling. The Yarra Valley is recognised as a culinary haven in its own right.

• Winery Restaurants Many cellar doors feature exceptional on-site dining. Oakridge, Yering Station, and Levantine Hill are renowned for their fine dining experiences. Zonzo Estate excels in delightful Italian cuisine, while Chandon infuses a touch of French sophistication.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Participate in a guided tasting of over 10 chocolates, accompanied by gelato, hot chocolate, and a shop filled with delectable treats. This experience is included in our daily tour.
• Cheese & Artisan Produce The region boasts artisan cheesemakers, vibrant farmers' markets, and local farm gates. Private tours may incorporate visits to producers such as Yarra Valley Dairy.
• Gin & Spirits If gin is more to your taste than wine, several distilleries in the area offer tastings—these can be seamlessly integrated into private tours.

Essential Information for Your Wine 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 based on your requirements.
• Do I need prior wine knowledge? Not at all. Our tours cater to wine enthusiasts of all levels. Just bring your curiosity and a desire to learn.
• What should I wear? Smart casual attire is recommended. Ensure you wear comfortable shoes, as you will explore 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 chance 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 crucial since tours often fill up quickly, especially 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 proceed regardless of weather conditions. Tastings occur indoors at the cellar doors, so rain typically does not hinder 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 the itinerary accommodates your needs.

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 people.