Wine Tasting Tours Near Melbourne for Memorable Adventures

Uncover the Wonders of Victoria's Wine Scene Without the Stress of Driving

Located merely an hour from Melbourne, the stunning Yarra Valley boasts over 80 cellar doors dedicated to producing some of Australia's finest cool-climate wines. This extraordinary region is renowned for its sophisticated Pinot Noir, exceptional Chardonnay, and delightful traditional method sparkling wines. Immerse yourself in the authentic essence of wine country in the Yarra Valley, where every sip tells a fascinating story that you won't want to miss.

Red Carpet Wine Tours offers a seamless adventure into the heart of wine country. Relish in meticulously planned visits to exclusive wineries, enjoy tastings directly from the cellar door, and gain insights into what sets Yarra Valley wines apart. Allow us to handle the driving, so you can avoid the hassle of finding a designated driver or dealing with crowded bus tours. Immerse yourself in a day filled with exceptional wine, breathtaking scenery, and a tranquil atmosphere that rejuvenates the spirit.

What Can You Anticipate During Your Wine Tasting Tour?

Participating in a wine tasting tour goes beyond merely sampling exquisite wines; it is an enriching experience that unveils the intricate art of winemaking. Here's a glimpse of what a typical day includes:

Engage with Passionate Winemakers At the majority of cellar doors, experienced staff guide you through tastings, passionately sharing their love for wine. They provide insights into the various varietals, details about the vintage, and the unique characteristics that make each wine special. Feel free to ask questions; they are eager to share their expertise and enthusiasm.

Discover Over 20 Varieties of Wine Throughout your adventure, you will visit 4-5 wineries, where you can sample a remarkable range of styles—from refreshing whites and aromatic rosés to rich reds and refined sparkling wines. Each cellar door typically showcases 4-6 wines per tasting, ensuring a wide and comprehensive experience that will delight your palate.

Absorb Wine Knowledge at Your Own Speed Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned wine aficionado, our tours are designed to cater to all levels of wine enthusiasts. You can expect a warm and inviting atmosphere where the emphasis is on appreciating exceptional wine and enjoying great company, free from any pretentiousness.

Enjoy Lunch Amidst Breathtaking Views Many 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 surrounded by vineyards will elevate your overall experience.

Take Home Your Favourite Wines Did you stumble upon a wine that you absolutely adored? 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 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 looking for 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 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) showcasing breathtaking views of the vineyards
• A small group format ensuring a relaxed and leisurely experience
• Chilled coolers on board for secure storage of your wine purchases

All this is available for only $109 per person, with all tastings included.

Customised Private Wine Tasting Tours for Your Enjoyment

Are you keen to select your preferred wineries? Planning a birthday celebration, hens day, or a special event? Our private tours allow you to entirely personalise your experience.

Here’s what you can decide:

• 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 soundtrack to match your mood

What we provide:

• A hassle-free, fully hosted experience tailored to your specifications
• Luxury Mercedes vehicles accommodating groups of up to 14 people
• Access to larger buses and coaches for bigger groups
• Expert local knowledge and customised 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.

Experience the Remarkable Wines of Yarra Valley

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

• Pinot Noir This grape variety embodies the Yarra Valley’s signature red wine. It is renowned for its elegance, earthy undertones, and a harmonious flavour profile—truly a quintessential Australian Pinot that wine lovers cherish.
• Chardonnay The Yarra Valley showcases a variety of Chardonnay styles, ranging from crisp and mineral to rich and velvety. Many wineries present 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 world's finest Champagne. These effervescent delights are perfect for celebrations, whether it's a special occasion or a casual Tuesday night.
• Cabernet Sauvignon Known for its robust structure, Yarra Valley Cabernet displays dark fruit flavours, refined tannins, and excellent ageing potential, making it a preferred choice among wine aficionados.
• Other Varietals Additionally, you’ll discover Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Nebbiolo, and more—especially from boutique producers experimenting with Italian and French varietals.

Wineries We Feature in Our Tours

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

• Soumah of Yarra Valley A boutique winery that specializes in Italian varietals. Immerse yourself in stunning views, a relaxed trattoria atmosphere, and exclusive wines not available anywhere else.
• 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 The last stop, known for its expansive views, exceptional wines, and a relaxed atmosphere, capping off your afternoon perfectly.
• 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 Although not a winery, it remains a beloved favourite. Enjoy guided chocolate tastings, gelato, and a wide array of treats to purchase and take home.

For private tours, we can also accommodate visits to additional wineries of your choosing, such as Oakridge, Yering Station, Rochford, Levantine Hill, De Bortoli, Zonzo Estate, and many others.

Who Can Benefit from Our Wine Tasting Tours?

• Solo Travellers If you are exploring Melbourne independently, our daily tour offers the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow wine aficionados, enjoy shared meals, and experience a fun day out without the stress of planning.
• Couples A wine tasting tour creates an unforgettable date experience. Indulge in exquisite wines, stunning landscapes, and the peace of mind knowing there will be no disagreements about who will drive back.
• Groups of Friends Whether it’s a relaxed 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 to ensure everyone has a great time.
• Corporate Groups For team-building, client entertainment, or end-of-year festivities, we cater to numerous corporate groups, fostering a professional yet comfortable atmosphere that is always well received.
• Visitors to Melbourne If you have a day to spare and wish to venture beyond the city limits, this is the day trip that locals always recommend.

Beyond Wine: Discover Culinary Delights, Chocolate & More

Wine tasting tours encompass more than just wine sampling. The Yarra Valley is also recognised as a culinary destination in its own right.

• Winery Restaurants Many cellar doors boast outstanding 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 sophistication.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Enjoy a guided tasting of over 10 chocolates, along with gelato, hot chocolate, and a shop brimming 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 like Yarra Valley Dairy.
• Gin & Spirits If you prefer gin over wine, several distilleries in the region offer tastings—these can easily be added to private tours for a varied experience.

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 preferred 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 needs.
• Do I need prior wine knowledge? Not at all. Our tours cater to 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 shoes, as you will be walking around various cellar doors and vineyards.
• Can I take wine home with me? Certainly! We have chilled coolers on board to keep your purchases secure 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 opportunity 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 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 offer 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 impact your enjoyment.

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 meets 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 customizable—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.