Wine Tasting Tours Near Melbourne: Unforgettable Adventures Await

Experience the Ultimate Victoria Wine Adventure Without the Stress of Driving

Located just an hour's drive from Melbourne, the stunning Yarra Valley boasts over 80 cellar doors, each dedicated to producing some of Australia’s most exquisite cool-climate wines. This extraordinary region is renowned for its elegant Pinot Noir, exceptional Chardonnay, and remarkable traditional method sparkling wines. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of wine country in the Yarra Valley, where every sip tells a fascinating story.

Red Carpet Wine Tours offers a seamless and enjoyable experience in the heart of wine country. Indulge in thoughtfully curated visits to exclusive wineries, relish tastings directly from the cellar door, and discover what sets Yarra Valley wines apart. Leave the driving to us, so you can avoid the hassle of a designated driver or crowded bus tours. Enjoy a day filled with superb wines, breathtaking landscapes, and a tranquil atmosphere.

What Awaits You on Your Wine Tasting Tour?

Participating in a wine tasting tour transcends mere wine sampling; it offers a rich experience that unveils the intricate art of winemaking. Here’s what you can anticipate on a typical day:

Engage with Passionate Winemakers At most cellar doors, enthusiastic staff guide you through tastings, sharing their love for wine. They provide insights into various varietals, information about the vintage, and details about what makes each wine unique. Feel free to interact and ask questions; they are eager to share their expertise and passion.

Discover Over 20 Varieties of Wine Throughout your journey, you will explore 4-5 wineries, where you can sample an impressive selection of styles—from refreshing whites and fragrant rosés to robust reds and sophisticated sparkling wines. Typically, each cellar door offers 4-6 wines per tasting, ensuring a thorough and enjoyable experience.

Learn About Wine at Your Own Leisure Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned wine enthusiast, our tours cater to all levels of wine lovers. Anticipate a welcoming atmosphere focused on enjoying fantastic wine and delightful company, devoid of any pretentiousness.

Savour Lunch Surrounded by Picturesque Views Most tours include a delightful lunch stop at a winery restaurant, enabling 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 amidst the vineyards elevates your overall experience.

Take Home Your Favourite Wines Did you discover a particular 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 throughout your journey.

Explore Our Curated Wine Tasting Tours

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

This option is our most sought-after, ideal for solo adventurers, couples, and small groups looking for a thoughtfully curated journey through the Yarra Valley.

What’s included in your tour:

• Convenient pickup from Federation Square at 9am, returning around 5pm
• 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) featuring stunning views of the vineyards
• A small group format ensuring a relaxed and unhurried 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.

Customised Private Wine Tasting Tours Tailored for You

Do you wish to select your favourite wineries? Planning a birthday, hens day, or a special celebration? Our private tours allow you to fully personalise your experience.

Here’s what you can customise:

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

What we provide:

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

Popular ideas for private tours include:
• Birthday celebrations with sparkling wine and a delightful lunch in the vineyards.
• Hens day tours featuring 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.

Savour the Exceptional Wines of Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is renowned for its outstanding cool-climate wines, which rank among the best globally. Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you at the cellar doors:

• Pinot Noir This grape variety epitomizes the Yarra Valley’s signature red wine. It is celebrated for its elegance, earthy undertones, and a well-balanced flavour profile—truly an iconic Australian Pinot.
• Chardonnay The Yarra Valley showcases a diverse selection of Chardonnay styles, ranging from crisp and mineral to rich and creamy. 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 finest Champagne. These sparkling delights are perfect for celebrations, whether for a special occasion or a casual Tuesday evening.
• Cabernet Sauvignon Known for its robust structure, Yarra Valley Cabernet displays dark fruit flavours, fine tannins, and exceptional ageing potential, making it a preferred choice among wine aficionados.
• 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 Showcased in Our Tours

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

• Soumah of Yarra Valley A boutique winery that excels in Italian varietals. Immerse yourself in breathtaking views, a relaxed trattoria atmosphere, and exclusive wines unavailable elsewhere.
• Hubert Estate (St Huberts Cellar Door) A historic venue featuring a modern cellar door, an indigenous art gallery, and the remarkable Quarters Restaurant, perfect for a delightful lunch.
• Balgownie Estate Our final destination, renowned for its expansive views, exceptional wines, and a relaxed ambiance to conclude your afternoon.
• Domaine Chandon Australia’s leading producer of sparkling wine, included as a lunch stop on our daily tour or featured in private excursions.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie While not a winery, it remains a crowd favourite. Indulge in 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 Enjoy Our Memorable Wine Tasting Tours?

• Solo Travellers If you are exploring Melbourne independently, our daily tour presents the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow wine enthusiasts, enjoy shared meals, and have an enjoyable day out without the stress of planning.
• Couples A wine tasting tour creates an unforgettable date experience. Delight in exquisite wines, stunning scenery, and the comfort of knowing there will be no disputes over who drives home.
• Groups of Friends Whether it’s a relaxed gathering or a birthday celebration, a wine tasting experience with friends is always an excellent choice. Our private tours can accommodate groups of any size.
• Corporate Groups For team-building activities, client entertainment, or year-end celebrations, we cater to numerous corporate groups, creating a professional yet relaxed environment that is always well-received.
• Visitors to Melbourne If you have a day to spare and wish to venture beyond the city, this is the day trip that locals consistently recommend.

Beyond Wine: Discover Culinary Delights, Chocolate and More

Wine tasting tours provide an experience that extends beyond wine sampling alone. The Yarra Valley stands out as a culinary destination in its own right.

• Winery Restaurants Numerous cellar doors feature outstanding on-site dining options. Oakridge, Yering Station, and Levantine Hill are celebrated for their exquisite dining experiences. Zonzo Estate excels in delightful Italian cuisine, while Chandon adds a touch of French sophistication.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Participate in a guided tasting of over 10 chocolates, including 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, lively 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 effortlessly 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 start 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 requirements.
• Do I need 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 exploring various cellar doors and vineyards.
• Can I take wine home with me? Certainly! We have chilled coolers on board to keep your purchases safe and fresh for your 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 wish.

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 throughout the day.

Should I book in advance? Yes, advance bookings are essential since tours tend to fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Book online to ensure 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 experience.

Are the tours accessible for wheelchair users? Most wineries we visit are wheelchair accessible. Please contact us prior to your visit, and we’ll ensure 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 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 individuals.