Wine Tasting Tours Near Melbourne: Unforgettable Adventures Await

Experience Victoria's Wine Paradise Without the Stress of Driving

Located just an hour's drive from Melbourne, the stunning Yarra Valley is home to over 80 cellar doors producing some of Australia's most exquisite cool-climate wines. This extraordinary region is renowned for its refined Pinot Noir, exceptional Chardonnay, and superb traditional method sparkling wines. Immerse yourself in the captivating essence of wine country in the Yarra Valley, where every sip reveals a fascinating story and a unique experience.

Red Carpet Wine Tours offers a seamless journey into the heart of this vibrant wine region. Enjoy meticulously planned visits to exclusive wineries, indulge in tastings directly from the cellar doors, and discover what sets Yarra Valley wines apart. Leave the driving to us, eliminating the hassle of a designated driver or overcrowded bus tours. Embark on a day filled with outstanding wines, breathtaking views, and a tranquil atmosphere.

What Awaits You on Your Wine Tasting Tour?

Participating in a wine tasting tour is not merely about sampling exquisite wines; it is a fulfilling experience that unveils the intricate art of winemaking. Here’s a glimpse into what a typical day entails:

Engage with Passionate Winemakers At most cellar doors, knowledgeable staff guide you through tastings, sharing their love for wine. They provide insights into different varietals, vintage details, and what makes each wine special. Don't hesitate to ask questions; they are eager to share their extensive knowledge and enthusiasm.

Delve into Over 20 Varieties of Wine Throughout your journey, you will visit 4-5 wineries, where you can taste an impressive array of styles—from refreshing whites and aromatic rosés to bold reds and elegant sparkling wines. Generally, each cellar door presents 4-6 wines per tasting, ensuring a broad and comprehensive experience.

Discover Wine Knowledge at Your Own Pace Whether you are a novice or an experienced wine enthusiast, our tours cater to all levels of wine lovers. Expect a warm atmosphere where the emphasis is on enjoying exceptional wines and great company, free from any pretentiousness.

Relish a Lunch Surrounded by Scenic Views Most tours include a delightful lunch stop at a winery restaurant, where you can pair local wines with seasonal dishes. Whether you choose a leisurely lunch at Domaine Chandon or a casual meal at Hubert Estate, dining among the vineyards enhances your overall experience immeasurably.

Bring Home Your Favourite Wines Did you stumble upon a particular wine that truly 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 stay safe and fresh throughout your journey.

Discover Our Unique Wine Tasting Tours

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

This tour is our most sought-after option, ideal for solo explorers, couples, and small groups in search of a tailored adventure in the Yarra Valley.

What’s Included in Your Tour:

• Convenient pickup from Federation Square at 9am, returning around 5pm
• Wine tastings at five distinguished 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 surrounding vineyards
• A small group format ensuring a relaxed and unhurried experience
• Chilled coolers on board for safe storage of your wine purchases

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

Customised Private Wine Tasting Tours Tailored for You

Are you excited to select your preferred wineries? Planning a birthday celebration, hen do, or any special occasion? Our private tours allow you to completely tailor your experience to your desires.

Here’s What You Can Choose:

• Select the wineries you want to visit (up to five stops)
• Choose your pickup location (we come to you)
• Set the start time and pace of your tour
• Curate the soundtrack to match your mood

What We Provide:

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

Popular Ideas for Private Tours Include:
• Birthday celebrations featuring sparkling wine and a delightful lunch amidst 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 breathtaking vineyards.

Savour the Exceptional Wines of Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is celebrated for its remarkable 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 is the hallmark red wine of the Yarra Valley. It is appreciated for its elegance, earthy nuances, and a well-rounded flavour profile—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. Numerous wineries showcase single-vineyard and reserve selections that highlight the region's distinctive terroir.
• Sparkling Wine Home to Domaine Chandon, the Yarra Valley produces traditional method sparkling wines that rival the finest Champagne. These delightful effervescent wines are perfect for celebrations, whether for a special occasion or a casual Tuesday night.
• Cabernet Sauvignon Known for its robust structure, Yarra Valley Cabernet exhibits dark fruit flavours, fine tannins, and excellent ageing potential, making it a beloved 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 Showcased in Our Tours

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

• Soumah of Yarra Valley A boutique winery renowned for its Italian varietals. Immerse yourself in breathtaking views, a relaxed trattoria atmosphere, and exclusive wines unavailable elsewhere.
• Hubert Estate (St Huberts Cellar Door) A historic estate featuring a modern cellar door, an indigenous art gallery, and the exquisite Quarters Restaurant—ideal for a delightful lunch.
• Balgownie Estate Our final destination, known for its expansive views, exceptional wines, and a relaxed ambiance to conclude your afternoon beautifully.
• Domaine Chandon Australia’s premier sparkling wine producer, featured either as a lunch stop on our daily tour or included in private tours.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Although not a winery, it remains a crowd favourite. Enjoy guided chocolate tastings, gelato, and a wide selection 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 Revel in Our Wine Tasting Tours?

• Solo Travellers If you are adventuring around Melbourne solo, our daily tour is the perfect opportunity to connect with other wine lovers, enjoy shared meals, and have an exciting day without the hassle of planning.
• Couples A wine tasting tour creates a memorable experience for dates. Savor exquisite wines, enjoy stunning scenery, and relax knowing there will be no arguments about who drives back.
• Groups of Friends Whether it’s a casual catch-up or a birthday celebration, a wine tasting adventure with friends is always a superb choice. Our private tours can accommodate groups of all sizes.
• Corporate Groups For team-building, client entertainment, or end-of-year celebrations, we cater to numerous corporate groups, ensuring a professional yet relaxed atmosphere that is always well received.
• Visitors to Melbourne If you have a day to spare and wish to explore beyond the city limits, this is the perfect day trip that locals consistently recommend.

Beyond Wine: Indulge in Culinary Delights, Chocolate & More

Wine tasting tours encompass more than just wine sampling. The Yarra Valley shines 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 celebrated for their exceptional dining experiences. Zonzo Estate excels in delightful Italian dishes, while Chandon brings 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 also include visits to producers like Yarra Valley Dairy.
• Gin & Spirits If gin is your preference, 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 collect you 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 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 desire to learn.
• What should I wear? We recommend smart casual attire. 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 provide 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 encompasses return transport from Federation Square, tastings at five venues (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 experience 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? 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 will go ahead 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 perfect 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.