Wine Tasting Tours Near Melbourne: Unforgettable Experiences Await

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

Situated just an hour from Melbourne, the stunning Yarra Valley is home to over 80 cellar doors that produce some of Australia's most exceptional cool-climate wines. This extraordinary destination is renowned for its elegant Pinot Noir, premium Chardonnay, and exquisite traditional method sparkling wines. Immerse yourself in the true spirit of wine country in the Yarra Valley, where every sip tells a fascinating story.

Red Carpet Wine Tours offers a seamless journey into the heart of this enchanting wine region. Enjoy thoughtfully curated visits to exclusive wineries, sample tastings straight from the cellar door, and discover what makes Yarra Valley wines truly unique. Leave the driving to us and avoid the hassle of a designated driver or crowded bus tours. Embrace a day filled with remarkable wine, breathtaking landscapes, and a tranquil atmosphere.

What Can You Anticipate on Your Wine Tasting Tour?

Participating in a wine tasting tour transcends mere sampling of exquisite wines; it is a rich experience that unveils the intricacies of winemaking. Here’s what you can expect during a typical day:

Engage with Passionate Winemakers At most cellar doors, knowledgeable staff will guide you through tastings while sharing their deep-rooted passion for wine. They provide valuable insights into the various varietals, information about the vintage, and what sets each wine apart. Don’t hesitate to ask questions; they are eager to share their expertise and enthusiasm.

Discover Over 20 Varieties of Wine Throughout your journey, you will visit 4-5 wineries, where you can sample an impressive array of styles—from refreshing whites and aromatic rosés to bold reds and sophisticated sparkling wines. Typically, each cellar door presents 4-6 wines during each tasting, ensuring a thorough and comprehensive experience.

Absorb Knowledge About Wine at Your Own Speed Whether you are new to wine or a seasoned enthusiast, our tours cater to all levels of wine lovers. Anticipate a friendly atmosphere where the emphasis is on enjoying exceptional wine and delightful company, free from any pretentiousness.

Delight in a Scenic Lunch Most tours feature a delightful lunch stop at a winery restaurant, allowing 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 uncover a wine that completely captivated you? 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.

Discover Our Tailored Wine Tasting Tours

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

This is our most sought-after option, ideal for solo travellers, couples, and small groups looking for a curated escapade in the Yarra Valley.

What Awaits You on This 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) offering stunning views of the vineyards
• A small group format ensuring a relaxed and unhurried experience
• Chilled coolers on board for safe storage of your wine purchases

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

Customised Private Wine Tasting Tours Designed for You

Are you keen to select your preferred wineries? Organising a birthday, hens day, or a special celebration? Our private tours allow you to completely tailor your experience.

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)
• Choose your starting time and pace
• Curate the music playlist to match your mood

What We Offer:

• A seamless, fully hosted experience customised to your preferences
• 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 Suggestions for Private Tours Include:
• Birthday celebrations featuring sparkling wine and a delightful lunch in the vineyards.
• Hens day tours offering delicious cheese boards, picturesque photo opportunities, and bubbly drinks.
• Team building events with engaging wine games and exclusive access.
• Romantic retreats that include private tastings and scenic drives through the vineyards.

Savour the Exceptional Wines of Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is revered for its outstanding cool-climate wines, which stand shoulder to shoulder with the world’s finest. 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. It is noted for its elegance, earthy nuances, and a balanced flavour profile—truly a quintessential Australian Pinot.
• Chardonnay The Yarra Valley showcases a diverse range of Chardonnay styles, from crisp and mineral to rich and creamy. Numerous wineries offer single-vineyard and reserve selections that highlight the region's unique terroir.
• Sparkling Wine Renowned for Domaine Chandon, the Yarra Valley produces traditional method sparkling wines that rival the finest Champagne. These delightful effervescent wines are ideal for celebrations, whether for a special occasion or a casual Tuesday evening.
• Cabernet Sauvignon Recognised for its robust structure, Yarra Valley Cabernet exhibits dark fruit flavours, fine tannins, and exceptional ageing potential, making it a preferred choice among wine aficionados.
• Other Varietals Additionally, you will discover 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 carefully curated selection of the valley’s finest cellar doors:

• Soumah of Yarra Valley A boutique winery that specialises in Italian varietals. Immerse yourself in breathtaking views, a relaxed trattoria atmosphere, and exclusive wines unavailable anywhere else.
• Hubert Estate (St Huberts Cellar Door) A historic property boasting a contemporary cellar door, an indigenous art gallery, and the exceptional Quarters Restaurant—ideal for a delightful lunch.
• Balgownie Estate Our final stop, known for its sweeping views, exceptional 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, this remains a beloved stop. Enjoy guided chocolate tastings, gelato, and an array of treats to purchase and take home.

For private tours, we can also visit additional wineries of your choosing, including Oakridge, Yering Station, Rochford, Levantine Hill, De Bortoli, Zonzo Estate, and many more.

Who Can Delight in Our Wine Tasting Tours?

• Solo Travellers If you are exploring Melbourne independently, our daily tour offers 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 provides a memorable date experience. Relish exquisite wines, breathtaking scenery, and the reassurance of 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 an excellent choice. Our private tours accommodate groups of any size.
• Corporate Groups For team-building, client entertainment, or year-end celebrations, we cater to numerous corporate groups, fostering a professional yet relaxed atmosphere that is always well-received.
• 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: Indulge in Culinary Delights, Chocolate & More

Wine tasting tours encompass more than just sampling wine. The Yarra Valley is recognised 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 cuisine, while Chandon brings a touch of French sophistication.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Engage in a guided tasting of over 10 chocolates, alongside gelato, hot chocolate, and a shop filled with delectable treats. This experience is included in our daily tour.
• Cheese & Artisan Produce The region boasts artisan cheesemakers, vibrant farmers' markets, and local farm gates. Private tours may include visits to producers like Yarra Valley Dairy.
• Gin & Spirits If gin is more your style, several distilleries in the area offer tastings—these can be seamlessly integrated into private tours.

Essential Information for Your Tour Experience

• Where do tours begin? 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 timings—most typically run from 9am to 5pm, but we can adjust according to your preferences.
• Do I need prior wine knowledge? Not at all. Our tours are designed for all levels of wine enthusiasts. Just bring your curiosity and a desire to learn.
• What should I wear? Smart casual attire is recommended. Please ensure to 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 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 taste? You will have the opportunity to sample 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, especially 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 continue regardless of weather conditions. Tastings take place indoors at the cellar doors, so rain typically does not hinder your experience.

Are the tours accessible for wheelchair users? Most wineries we visit are wheelchair accessible. Please contact us in advance, and we’ll ensure that the itinerary accommodates your needs.

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

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