Wine Tasting Tours Near Melbourne for Memorable Adventures

Uncover the Wonders of Victoria’s Wine Scene Without the Inconvenience of Driving

Located just an hour from Melbourne, the stunning Yarra Valley boasts over 80 cellar doors, each dedicated to producing some of Australia’s finest cool-climate wines. This extraordinary region is renowned for its elegant Pinot Noir, exceptional Chardonnay, and exquisite traditional method sparkling wines. Discover the true essence of wine country in the Yarra Valley, where each glass tells a compelling story waiting to be told.

Red Carpet Wine Tours offers a seamless journey into the heart of this enchanting wine region. Delight in meticulously planned visits to exclusive wineries, relish tastings directly from the cellar door, and gain insights into what makes Yarra Valley wines truly special. You can leave the driving to us, removing the hassle of needing a designated driver or dealing with crowded bus tours. Immerse yourself in a day filled with exceptional wine, breathtaking landscapes, and a tranquil atmosphere that rejuvenates the spirit.

What Should You Anticipate During Your Wine Tasting Tour?

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

Engage with Passionate Winemakers At most cellar doors, enthusiastic staff guide you through tastings, sharing their deep passion for wine. They provide insights into the various varietals, the history of the vintage, and what sets each wine apart. Feel free to ask questions; they genuinely appreciate the opportunity to share their expertise and excitement.

Dive into Over 20 Varieties of Wine Throughout your adventure, you will explore 4-5 wineries, where you will have the chance to taste an impressive array of styles—from refreshing whites and aromatic rosés to robust reds and sophisticated sparkling wines. Generally, each cellar door presents 4-6 wines per tasting, guaranteeing a comprehensive and fulfilling experience.

Discover Wine Knowledge at Your Own Pace Whether you are a newcomer or a seasoned wine enthusiast, our tours are tailored to accommodate all levels of wine lovers. Expect a friendly atmosphere where the emphasis is on enjoying superb wine and delightful company, free from any pretentiousness.

Relish Lunch with Spectacular Views Most tours feature a delightful lunch break at a winery restaurant, allowing you to pair local wines with seasonal dishes. Whether you choose a leisurely meal at Domaine Chandon or a casual dining experience at Hubert Estate, eating amidst the vineyards significantly enhances your overall adventure.

Take Home Your Favourite Wines Did you uncover a particular wine that captured your heart? Most cellar doors offer bottles for purchase, frequently at exclusive cellar door pricing. We provide chilled coolers on board to ensure your selections stay safe and fresh throughout your journey.

Discover Our Unique Wine Tasting Tours Tailored to You

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

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

What’s included in your tour:

• 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) featuring 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.

Bespoke Private Wine Tasting Tours Crafted Just for You

Are you excited to select your preferred wineries? Planning a birthday celebration, a hens day, or another special occasion? Our private tours enable you to fully customise your experience to your liking.

Here’s what you can personalise:

• Select the wineries you wish to visit (up to five stops)
• Choose your pickup location (we travel to you)
• Decide your starting time and pace
• Curate the playlist to match your desired mood

What we provide for your convenience:

• A stress-free, fully hosted experience tailored to your preferences
• 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 themes for private tours include:
• Birthday celebrations featuring sparkling wine and a delightful lunch amongst 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.

Delight in 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 globally. 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 cherished for its elegance, earthy notes, and a balanced flavour profile—truly a quintessential Australian Pinot that captivates the palate.
• Chardonnay The Yarra Valley presents a diverse selection of Chardonnay styles, ranging from crisp and mineral to rich and creamy. Many 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 compete with the finest Champagne. These effervescent delights are perfect for celebrations, whether for special occasions or a casual Tuesday evening.
• Cabernet Sauvignon Renowned for its robust structure, Yarra Valley Cabernet showcases rich dark fruit flavours, fine tannins, and an excellent potential for ageing, 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, enriching the local landscape.

Wineries Highlighted in Our Tours

Our daily tour features a thoughtfully 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 that are not available elsewhere.
• Hubert Estate (St Huberts Cellar Door) A historic estate featuring a modern cellar door, an indigenous art gallery, and the exceptional Quarters Restaurant, perfect for a delightful lunch.
• Balgownie Estate Our final destination, celebrated 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 Although not a winery, it remains a beloved stop. Enjoy guided chocolate tastings, gelato, and a variety of treats available for purchase to take home.

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

Who Can Enjoy Our Wine Tasting Tours and What’s In Store?

• Solo Travellers If you are navigating Melbourne by yourself, our daily tour provides a perfect opportunity to connect with fellow wine enthusiasts, share meals, and enjoy a delightful day without the stress of planning.
• Couples A wine tasting tour offers a memorable date experience. Enjoy exquisite wines, stunning scenery, and the peace of mind knowing 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 option. Our private tours can accommodate groups of any size.
• Corporate Groups For team-building, client entertainment, or year-end celebrations, we cater to various corporate groups, creating a professional yet relaxed environment that is consistently 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 frequently recommend.

Explore Beyond Wine: Discover Culinary Delights, Chocolate & More

Wine tasting tours provide more than just wine sampling. The Yarra Valley is celebrated as a culinary destination in its own right.

• Winery Restaurants Numerous cellar doors feature exceptional on-site dining options. Oakridge, Yering Station, and Levantine Hill are well-known for their fine dining experiences. Zonzo Estate excels in delightful Italian cuisine, while Chandon adds a touch of French sophistication.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Participate in a guided chocolate tasting experience featuring over 10 chocolates, alongside gelato, hot chocolate, and a store filled with delectable treats. This delightful experience is included in our daily tour.
• Cheese & Artisan Produce The region is home to artisanal 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 incorporated 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 chosen 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 passion for learning about the art of wine.
• 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? 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, especially on weekends. Book online to guarantee your spot.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol? Definitely! 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 affect your enjoyment.

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 requirements.

What distinguishes daily tours from private tours? The daily tour follows a predefined itinerary with a fixed 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 experience.

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.