Wine Tasting Tours Near Melbourne: Unforgettable Adventures Await

Experience the Finest of Victoria's Wine Region Without the Hassle of Driving

Located just an hour away from Melbourne, the stunning Yarra Valley is home to over 80 cellar doors, each dedicated to producing some of Australia’s most exceptional cool-climate wines. This extraordinary region is renowned for its sophisticated Pinot Noir, premium Chardonnay, and exquisite sparkling wines produced using traditional methods. Discover the authentic essence of wine country in the Yarra Valley, where each sip tells a unique and captivating narrative.

Red Carpet Wine Tours offers a seamless journey into the heart of wine country. Enjoy meticulously curated visits to exclusive wineries, indulge in tastings directly from the cellar door, and gain insights into what sets Yarra Valley wines apart. With us handling the driving, you can relax without the worry of selecting a designated driver or navigating crowded bus tours. Immerse yourself in a day filled with exceptional wines, breathtaking landscapes, and a tranquil atmosphere.

What Experiences Await You on Your Wine Tasting Tour?

Embarking on a wine tasting tour is not merely about sampling exquisite wines; it is an enriching journey 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 enthusiasm for wine. They provide insights into various varietals, information about the vintage, and what makes each wine distinct. Feel free to engage with them and ask questions; they are eager to share their expertise and passion.

Explore an Impressive Selection of Wine Varieties Throughout your journey, you will visit 4-5 wineries, sampling a remarkable array of styles—from refreshing whites and aromatic rosés to bold reds and elegantly refined sparkling wines. Typically, each cellar door offers 4-6 wines for tasting, ensuring a thorough and immersive experience.

Learn About Wine at Your Own Pace Whether you are a novice or a seasoned wine enthusiast, our tours cater to all levels of interest. Expect a friendly atmosphere where the emphasis is on enjoying outstanding wine and delightful company, without any pretentiousness.

Enjoy Lunch with Scenic Views Most tours include a delightful lunch stop at a winery restaurant, providing an opportunity 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 enhances your overall experience.

Take Home Your Favourite Wines Did you discover a particular wine that you absolutely adored? 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 Just $109

This is our most sought-after option, ideal for solo adventurers, couples, and small groups seeking a curated experience in the Yarra Valley.

What’s included in your tour:

• Convenient pickup from Federation Square at 9am, returning approximately at 5pm
• Tastings at five renowned 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 breathtaking vineyard views
• 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 Just for You

Are you excited to select your favourite wineries? Planning a birthday, hens day, or a special celebration? Our private tours allow you to completely tailor your experience.

Here’s what you can personalise:

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

What we provide for your tour:

• A stress-free, fully hosted experience customised 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 suggestions 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.

Savour the Exceptional Wines of Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is renowned for its outstanding cool-climate wines, which stand on par with the finest in the world. Here’s a preview of what awaits you at the cellar doors:

• Pinot Noir This grape variety embodies the Yarra Valley’s signature red wine. It is celebrated for its elegance, earthy undertones, and a perfectly balanced flavour profile—truly a quintessential Australian Pinot.
• Chardonnay The Yarra Valley presents a diverse range of Chardonnay styles, from crisp and mineral to rich and creamy. Many wineries showcase single-vineyard and reserve selections that highlight the region's unique terroir.
• Sparkling Wine As home to Domaine Chandon, the Yarra Valley produces traditional method sparkling wines that rival the finest Champagne. These effervescent delights are ideal for celebrations, whether for a special occasion or a casual Tuesday evening.
• Cabernet Sauvignon Known for its robust structure, Yarra Valley Cabernet exhibits dark fruit flavours, refined tannins, and excellent aging potential, making it a preferred choice among wine enthusiasts.
• Other Varietals Additionally, you will encounter Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Nebbiolo, and more—especially from boutique producers experimenting with Italian and French varietals.

Wineries Featured in Our Exclusive Tours

Our daily tour features a thoughtfully curated lineup of the valley’s finest cellar doors:

• Soumah of Yarra Valley A boutique winery that specializes in 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 property featuring a contemporary cellar door, an indigenous art gallery, and the exceptional Quarters Restaurant, perfect for a delightful lunch.
• Balgownie Estate Our final stop, celebrated for its expansive views, exceptional wines, and a relaxed atmosphere to conclude your afternoon.
• Domaine Chandon Australia’s leading producer of sparkling wine, featured as a lunch stop on our daily tour or included in private tours.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie While not a winery, it remains a crowd favourite. Indulge in guided chocolate tastings, gelato, and a selection of delectable 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 alone, our daily tour presents the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow wine enthusiasts, enjoy shared meals, and have a memorable day out 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 disputes 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 choice. Our private tours can accommodate groups of any size.
• Corporate Groups For team-building events, client entertainment, or year-end celebrations, we cater to various 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 explore beyond the city limits, this is the day trip that locals consistently endorse.

Beyond Wine: Discover Culinary Delights, Chocolate & More

Wine tasting tours offer much more than just wine sampling. The Yarra Valley stands out as a culinary hub in its own right.

• Winery Restaurants Many cellar doors feature exceptional on-site dining options. Oakridge, Yering Station, and Levantine Hill are renowned for their fine dining experiences. Zonzo Estate excels in delightful Italian cuisine, while Chandon adds a touch of French elegance.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Join a guided tasting of over 10 chocolates, as well as gelato, hot chocolate, and a store filled with mouth-watering 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 such as Yarra Valley Dairy.
• Gin & Spirits If you prefer gin over wine, several distilleries in the area offer tastings—these can be seamlessly integrated into 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 cater to all levels of wine enthusiasts. Just bring your curiosity and a passion for learning.
• What should I wear? Smart casual attire is recommended. Ensure comfortable footwear, 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 essential since tours often fill up quickly, particularly on weekends. Book online to secure your spot.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol? Definitely! Many stops offer non-alcoholic options, and the scenery, food, and chocolate alone are well worth the trip.

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 affect 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 fixed itinerary with a set price, making it ideal for solo travellers and small groups. Private tours are fully customizable—you choose the wineries, pickup location, and 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.