Wine Tasting Tours Near Melbourne for Memorable Adventures

Explore Victoria's Premier Wine Regions Without the Stress of Driving

Situated just an hour from Melbourne, the stunning Yarra Valley boasts over 80 cellar doors producing some of Australia’s most exceptional cool-climate wines. Renowned for its refined Pinot Noir, exquisite Chardonnay, and traditional method sparkling wines, this extraordinary region invites you to immerse yourself in the authentic charm of wine country, where every sip tells a fascinating tale.

Red Carpet Wine Tours offers a seamless journey into the heart of this enchanting wine region. Relish in meticulously planned visits to exclusive wineries, savour tastings directly from the cellar door, and discover the unique attributes that set Yarra Valley wines apart. Leave the driving to us, so you can enjoy the day without the hassle of a designated driver or the discomfort of crowded bus tours. Engage fully in a day brimming with remarkable wines, breathtaking landscapes, and a tranquil atmosphere.

What Can You Anticipate on Your Wine Tasting Tour?

Participating in a wine tasting tour transcends merely sampling exquisite wines; it provides a deeply enriching experience that unveils the intricate art of winemaking. Here’s what you can look forward to during a typical day:

Engage with Enthusiastic Winemakers As you visit various cellar doors, knowledgeable staff will guide you through tastings, sharing their passion and expertise about the wines. They will provide insights into the diverse varietals, details about the vintage, and what makes each wine extraordinary. Don’t hesitate to ask questions; they are eager to share their knowledge and joy for wine.

Sample an Impressive Selection of Over 20 Wines On your journey, you will explore 4-5 wineries, allowing you to taste a magnificent variety of styles—from crisp whites and fragrant rosés to robust reds and refined sparkling wines. Typically, each cellar door features 4-6 wines for tasting, ensuring a rich and comprehensive experience for all.

Absorb Wine Knowledge at Your Own Leisure Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned connoisseur, our tours are tailored to accommodate all levels of wine enthusiasts. You can expect a friendly atmosphere where the emphasis is on enjoying exceptional wine and delightful company, free from any pretentiousness.

Relish a Lunch Surrounded by Scenic Vistas Most tours include a delightful lunch break at a winery restaurant, allowing for the perfect pairing of local wines and seasonal dishes. Whether you prefer a leisurely meal at Domaine Chandon or a relaxed lunch at Hubert Estate, dining amidst the vineyards significantly enhances your overall experience.

Take Home Your Favourite Wines Did you stumble upon a 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 during your journey.

Discover Our Unique Wine Tasting Tour Experiences

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 scenic lunch stop (pay as you go) featuring 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 just $109 per person, with all tastings included.

Custom Private Wine Tasting Tours Designed for Your Preferences

Are you excited to select your preferred wineries? Planning a birthday celebration, hens day, or a special occasion? Our private tours empower you to fully customise your experience.

Here’s what you can tailor:

• 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 personalised playlist to set the mood

What we provide:

• A stress-free, fully hosted experience tailored to meet your needs
• Luxury Mercedes vehicles accommodating groups of up to 14 people
• Access to larger buses and coaches for bigger gatherings
• Expert local knowledge and customised recommendations

Popular suggestions for private tours include:
• Birthday celebrations featuring sparkling wines and a delightful lunch in the vineyards.
• Hens day tours offering cheese platters, picturesque photo opportunities, and bubbly beverages.
• Team building events with engaging wine games and exclusive access.
• Romantic getaways that include private tastings and scenic drives through the stunning vineyards.

Indulge in the Exceptional Wines of Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is celebrated for its remarkable cool-climate wines, which rival 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. Known for its elegance, earthy undertones, and a harmonious flavour profile, it is truly a quintessential Australian Pinot.
• Chardonnay The Yarra Valley presents a diverse array of Chardonnay styles, from crisp and mineral to rich and creamy. Numerous wineries showcase 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 compete with the finest Champagne. These effervescent delights are perfect for celebrations, whether for a special occasion or a casual evening.
• Cabernet Sauvignon Renowned for its robust structure, Yarra Valley Cabernet showcases dark fruit flavours, fine tannins, and excellent ageing potential, making it a preferred choice among wine aficionados.
• Other Varietals Furthermore, you will encounter Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Nebbiolo, and others, particularly from boutique producers experimenting with Italian and French varietals.

Wineries Featured in Our Bespoke Tours

Our daily tour features a carefully curated selection of the valley’s premier cellar doors:

• Soumah of Yarra Valley A boutique winery focusing on Italian varietals. Immerse yourself in breathtaking views, a relaxed trattoria ambiance, and exclusive wines that you won’t find elsewhere.
• Hubert Estate (St Huberts Cellar Door) An historic property featuring a modern cellar door, an indigenous art gallery, and the exceptional Quarters Restaurant perfect for a delightful lunch.
• Balgownie Estate Our final destination, celebrated for its expansive views, outstanding wines, and a relaxed environment to wrap up your afternoon.
• 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 While not a winery, it remains a popular stop. Enjoy guided chocolate tastings, gelato, and an array of delectable 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 by yourself, our daily tour presents the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow wine enthusiasts, share meals, and enjoy a fun-filled day without the stress of planning.
• Couples A wine tasting tour presents a memorable date experience. Savour exquisite wines, stunning scenery, and the assurance that there will be no disputes 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 an excellent 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, creating a professional yet relaxed atmosphere that is always well received.
• Visitors to Melbourne If you have a spare day and wish to explore beyond the city limits, this is the day trip that locals consistently endorse.

Beyond Wine: Discover Culinary Delights, Chocolate & More

Wine tasting tours encompass more than just the sampling of wines. 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 famous for their exceptional dining experiences. Zonzo Estate excels in delightful Italian cuisine, while Chandon introduces a touch of French elegance.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Engage in a guided tasting of over 10 chocolates, alongside gelato, hot chocolate, and a store brimming with tempting 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 favour gin over wine, several distilleries in the area provide 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 according to your preferences.
• Do I need to have prior wine knowledge? Not at all. Our tours cater to all levels of wine enthusiasts. Just bring your curiosity and a willingness 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? 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 Regarding Our Wine Tasting Tours

What’s included in the $109 daily tour? Your ticket encompasses 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 sample? You’ll enjoy tasting over 20 wines across 4-5 cellar doors throughout the day.

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

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 occur indoors at the cellar doors, ensuring that rain typically does not detract from your experience.

Are the tours accessible for wheelchair users? The majority of wineries we visit are wheelchair accessible. Please contact us in advance, and we’ll make sure that the itinerary accommodates your needs.

What distinguishes daily tours from private tours? The daily tour follows a fixed itinerary with a set price, making it perfect for solo travellers and small groups. Private tours are fully customisable—you choose the wineries, pickup location, and the speed of your adventure.

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