Wine Tasting Tours Near Melbourne for Memorable Adventures

Experience the Thriving Wine Culture of Victoria Without the Stress of Driving

Situated just an hour from Melbourne, the stunning Yarra Valley is home to over 80 cellar doors producing some of Australia’s most exceptional cool-climate wines. Renowned for its refined Pinot Noir, high-quality Chardonnay, and exquisite traditional method sparkling wines, this remarkable region offers a journey into the heart of wine country, where each glass tells a fascinating story waiting to be discovered.

Red Carpet Wine Tours ensures a seamless exploration of this enchanting wine region. Relish in meticulously planned visits to prestigious wineries, indulge in tastings straight from the cellar door, and gain insights into what sets Yarra Valley wines apart. By allowing us to handle the driving, you can fully immerse yourself in a day filled with exceptional wine, breathtaking landscapes, and a tranquil atmosphere, without the worry of designating a driver or joining crowded bus tours.

What Awaits You on Your Wine Tasting Tour?

Participating in a wine tasting tour transcends merely tasting exquisite wines; it is a comprehensive experience that unveils the intricate art of winemaking. Here’s a look at what a typical day entails:

Engage with Passionate Winemakers At most cellar doors, enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff guide you through the tasting experience, sharing their fervor for wine. These experts provide valuable insights into diverse varietals, vintage details, and the unique characteristics that distinguish each wine. Feel encouraged to ask questions and engage; they take pleasure in sharing their expertise and passion.

Discover a Diverse Selection of Over 20 Wines As part of your journey, you will visit 4-5 wineries, offering you the chance to taste an impressive variety of styles—from invigorating whites and aromatic rosés to bold reds and sophisticated sparkling wines. Typically, each cellar door presents 4-6 wines per tasting, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching experience.

Enjoy a Relaxed Learning Experience About Wine No matter if you are a novice or an experienced wine aficionado, our tours are tailored to accommodate all levels of wine enthusiasts. Expect a friendly atmosphere where the emphasis is on relishing outstanding wines and enjoying great company, free from any pretentiousness.

Delight in a Scenic Lunch Experience Most tours feature a delightful lunch break at a winery restaurant, allowing you to pair local wines with seasonal dishes. Whether you choose a leisurely meal at Domaine Chandon or a casual dining experience at Hubert Estate, enjoying your lunch amidst the vineyards significantly enhances your overall experience.

Take Home Your Favourite Wines Did you find a particular 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.

Discover 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, perfect for solo travellers, 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 esteemed 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 leisurely 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.

Customised Private Wine Tasting Tours Designed for Your Preferences

Do you wish to select your preferred wineries? Are you planning a birthday, hens day, or a special celebration? Our private tours allow you to fully tailor your experience to your desires.

Here’s What You Can Decide:

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

What We Provide:

• A stress-free, completely hosted experience tailored to your needs
• Luxury Mercedes vehicles accommodating groups of up to 14 individuals
• 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 vineyards.
• Hens day tours offering cheese boards, picturesque photo opportunities, and bubbly drinks.
• Team building events featuring engaging wine games and exclusive access.
• Romantic getaways that include private tastings and scenic drives through the vineyards.

Savour the Remarkable Wines of Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is celebrated for its outstanding cool-climate wines, which stand shoulder to shoulder with 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. Renowned for its elegance, earthy undertones, and harmonious flavour profile, it is truly a quintessential Australian Pinot.
• Chardonnay The Yarra Valley boasts a diverse array of Chardonnay styles, ranging from crisp and mineral to rich and creamy. Many wineries feature 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 finest Champagne. These effervescent delights are perfect for celebrations, whether for a special occasion or just a casual Tuesday night.
• Cabernet Sauvignon Known for its robust structure, Yarra Valley Cabernet showcases dark fruit flavours, fine tannins, and excellent aging potential, making it a preferred choice among wine connoisseurs.
• Other Varietals Additionally, you’ll encounter Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Nebbiolo, and more—especially from boutique producers experimenting with Italian and French varietals.

Wineries Highlighted in Our Tours

Our daily tour features a meticulously curated selection of the valley’s finest cellar doors:

• Soumah of Yarra Valley A boutique winery that focuses on Italian varietals. Immerse yourself in breathtaking views, a relaxed trattoria atmosphere, and exclusive wines that are not available elsewhere.
• Hubert Estate (St Huberts Cellar Door) A historic site with a contemporary cellar door, an indigenous art gallery, and the outstanding Quarters Restaurant, perfect for a delightful lunch.
• Balgownie Estate Our concluding stop, known for its sweeping views, exceptional wines, and a relaxed environment to round off your afternoon.
• Domaine Chandon Australia’s premier 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 immensely popular. Enjoy guided chocolate tastings, gelato, and a variety 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 is the ideal opportunity to connect with fellow wine enthusiasts, enjoy shared meals, and have a delightful day out without the stress of planning.
• Couples A wine tasting tour offers a memorable date experience. Savor exquisite wines, stunning scenery, and the comfort of knowing there will be no disputes about who drives back.
• Groups of Friends Whether it’s a relaxed 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 entertaining, or year-end celebrations, we cater to numerous corporate groups, fostering a professional yet relaxed atmosphere that is always appreciated.
• 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 consistently recommend.

Beyond Wine: Discover Culinary Delights, Chocolate & More

Wine tasting tours provide more than just wine sampling; the Yarra Valley is a culinary destination in its own right.

• Winery Restaurants Many cellar doors boast exceptional on-site dining options. Oakridge, Yering Station, and Levantine Hill are famous for their fine dining experiences. Zonzo Estate excels in delightful Italian cuisine, while Chandon adds a touch of French sophistication.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Join a guided tasting of over 10 chocolates, along with gelato, hot chocolate, and a store 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 be seamlessly added to 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 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 according to your needs.
• Do I need to have prior wine knowledge? Not at all. Our tours accommodate all levels of wine enthusiasts. Just bring your curiosity and a passion for discovery.
• 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 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 crucial since tours frequently fill up quickly, particularly on weekends. Book online to secure your place.

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 experience.

Are the tours accessible for wheelchair users? Most wineries we visit are wheelchair accessible. Please contact us ahead of time, and we’ll ensure that the itinerary accommodates 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.