Wine Tasting Tours Near Melbourne for Memorable Adventures

Experience the Enchantment of Victoria's Wine Region Without the Stress of Driving

Located just an hour away from Melbourne, the stunning Yarra Valley is home to over 80 cellar doors, each creating some of Australia’s most exceptional cool-climate wines. This extraordinary region is renowned for its sophisticated Pinot Noir, premium Chardonnay, and exquisite traditional method sparkling wines. Delve into the heart of wine country in the Yarra Valley, where every sip tells a fascinating story that reflects the unique terroir.

Red Carpet Wine Tours offers a seamless journey into this enchanting wine landscape. Enjoy meticulously planned visits to exclusive wineries, indulge in tastings directly from the cellar door, and gain insights into what sets Yarra Valley wines apart. Relinquishing the driving responsibilities means you can fully appreciate the day without the concerns of designated drivers or crowded bus tours. Immerse yourself in an unforgettable day filled with remarkable wine, breathtaking scenery, and a tranquil atmosphere.

What Can You Anticipate During Your Wine Tasting Tour?

Embarking on a wine tasting tour transcends mere sampling of exquisite wines; it is a profound experience that unveils the intricate craft of winemaking. Here’s a glimpse of what your day may entail:

Engage with Passionate Winemakers At most cellar doors, knowledgeable staff guide you through tastings, sharing their ardour for wine. They provide insights into various varietals, details regarding the specific vintage, and what makes each wine truly special. Feel free to engage and ask questions; they are always eager to share their wisdom and enthusiasm.

Discover an Array of Over 20 Wine Varieties Throughout your adventure, you will visit 4-5 wineries, where you can sample an impressive range of styles—from refreshing whites and aromatic rosés to robust reds and refined sparkling wines. Each cellar door typically presents 4-6 wines per tasting, ensuring a broad and enriching experience.

Absorb Wine Knowledge at Your Own Pace Whether you are a novice or a seasoned wine aficionado, our tours are designed to accommodate all levels of wine enthusiasts. Expect a friendly atmosphere that emphasises enjoyment of exceptional wine and delightful company, devoid of any elitism.

Enjoy a Scenic Lunch Experience Most tours feature a delightful lunch at a winery restaurant, allowing you to pair local wines with seasonal dishes. Whether you choose a leisurely meal at Domaine Chandon or a relaxed dining experience at Hubert Estate, eating among the vineyards will heighten your overall adventure.

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 that 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 travellers, couples, and small groups seeking a curated adventure in the Yarra Valley.

Here’s what your tour includes:

• Convenient pickup from Federation Square at 9am, returning around 5pm
• Tastings at five acclaimed 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) offering breathtaking 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 of this is available for just $109 per person, with all tastings included.

Customised Private Wine Tasting Tours Just for You

Would you like the freedom to select your preferred wineries? Planning a birthday, hens day, or a significant celebration? Our private tours empower you to completely tailor your experience to your desires.

Here’s what you can choose:

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

What we offer:

• 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 groups
• Expert local knowledge and personalised recommendations

Popular ideas for private tours include:
• Birthday celebrations featuring sparkling wine and a delightful lunch in 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.

Indulge in the Remarkable Wines of Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is celebrated for its remarkable cool-climate wines, which stand alongside some of the finest in the world. Here’s a preview of what awaits you at the cellar doors:

• Pinot Noir This grape variety epitomises the Yarra Valley’s signature red wine. It is lauded for its elegance, earthy nuances, and a well-balanced flavour profile—truly a quintessential Australian Pinot.
• Chardonnay The Yarra Valley offers 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 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 special occasions or a casual Tuesday evening.
• 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 enthusiasts.
• Other Varietals Additionally, you’ll discover Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Nebbiolo, and more—especially from boutique producers experimenting with Italian and French varietals.

Renowned Wineries Featured in Our Tours

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

• Soumah of Yarra Valley A boutique winery known for its Italian varietals. Immerse yourself in stunning views, a relaxed trattoria atmosphere, and exclusive wines unavailable elsewhere.
• 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.
• Balgownie Estate Our final stop, renowned for its expansive views, outstanding wines, and a relaxed atmosphere to conclude 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 a favourite among visitors. Participate in guided chocolate tastings, gelato sampling, and an assortment of treats to purchase and take home.

For private tours, we can also visit additional wineries of your preference, 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 solo, our daily tour presents a 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 creates an unforgettable date experience. Relish exquisite wines, stunning scenery, and the assurance that there will be no disagreements 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 fantastic option. Our private tours accommodate groups of any size.
• Corporate Groups For team-building, client entertainment, or year-end celebrations, we cater to various corporate groups, fostering a professional yet relaxed environment that is always appreciated.
• Visitors to Melbourne If you have a day to spare and wish to explore beyond the city limits, this is the day trip that locals consistently recommend.

Beyond Wine: Discover Culinary Treats, Chocolate & More

Wine tasting tours offer so much more than just wine sampling. The Yarra Valley is also celebrated as a culinary hotspot in its own right.

• Winery Restaurants Many cellar doors boast outstanding on-site dining options. Oakridge, Yering Station, and Levantine Hill are renowned 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 types of chocolates, along with gelato, hot chocolate, and a shop 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 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 integrated into private tours.

Essential Information for Your Tour Experience

• Where do the tours start? Our daily tour departs from Federation Square (outside the Ian Potter Centre) at 9am sharp. Private tours can pick you up from any location of your choice.
• What is the duration of the tour? The daily tour typically returns to Melbourne around 5pm. Private tours offer flexible timings—most commonly running from 9am to 5pm, but we can adjust according to your preferences.
• Do I need prior wine knowledge? Not at all. Our tours cater to all levels of wine enthusiasts. Simply bring your curiosity and a passion for learning.
• 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. You are welcome 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 a pay-as-you-go option.

How many wines will I get to taste? You’ll have the opportunity to sample 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, especially during 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 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 beforehand, and we will ensure that the itinerary accommodates your needs.

What differentiates 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 entirely customizable—you choose the wineries, pickup location, and the pace of your journey.

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.