Wine Tasting Tours for Unforgettable Experiences Near Melbourne

Experience Victoria's Wine Paradise with Hassle-Free Transport

Located merely an hour from Melbourne, the stunning Yarra Valley is home to over 80 cellar doors that produce some of Australia's most exquisite cool-climate wines. This exceptional region is renowned for its sophisticated Pinot Noir, high-quality Chardonnay, and luxurious traditional method sparkling wines. Immerse yourself in the authentic essence of wine country in the Yarra Valley, where every sip reveals a fascinating narrative.

Red Carpet Wine Tours offers a seamless journey into the heart of the wine region. Delight in meticulously planned visits to exclusive wineries, enjoy tastings straight from the cellar door, and gain insights into what makes Yarra Valley wines truly special. Let us handle the driving, so you can relax without the stress of finding a designated driver or dealing with crowded public transport. Embrace a day filled with exceptional wine, breathtaking landscapes, and a tranquil atmosphere.

What to Anticipate During Your Wine Tasting Tour Experience?

Participating in a wine tasting tour extends beyond merely sampling fine wines; it becomes a rich experience that unveils the intricacies of winemaking. Here’s an overview of what a typical day entails:

Engage with Passionate Winemakers At most cellar doors, knowledgeable staff members guide you through tastings, sharing their deep-seated passion for wine. They provide valuable insights into the various varietals, details regarding the vintage, and what sets each wine apart. Feel free to engage in discussion and ask questions; they relish sharing their expertise and enthusiasm.

Sample Over 20 Distinct Wine Varieties Throughout your adventure, you will visit 4-5 wineries, where you can taste an impressive array of styles—from refreshing whites and aromatic rosés to bold reds and elegant sparkling wines. Typically, each cellar door presents 4-6 wines per tasting, ensuring a broad and comprehensive experience.

Discover Wine Knowledge at Your Own Leisure Regardless of whether you are a novice or a seasoned wine enthusiast, our tours are thoughtfully designed to cater to all levels of wine lovers. Expect a friendly atmosphere where the primary focus is on enjoying outstanding wine and delightful company, free from any sense of pretentiousness.

Savour Lunch Amidst Breathtaking Views Most tours include 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 enhances your entire experience.

Bring Home Your Favourite Wines Did you stumble upon a wine that you simply adored? Most cellar doors allow you to purchase bottles, often at exclusive cellar door prices. We provide chilled coolers onboard to ensure your selections remain safe and fresh throughout your journey.

Discover Our Unique Wine Tasting Tour Offerings

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

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

What does your tour include?

• 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) showcasing stunning vineyard views
• A small group format ensuring a relaxed and unhurried experience
• Chilled coolers onboard for secure storage of your wine purchases

This entire experience is available for just $109 per person, with all tastings included.

Customised Private Wine Tasting Tours Tailored for You

Are you excited to select your preferred wineries? Planning a birthday, hens party, or a special occasion? Our private tours allow you to fully personalise your experience.

Here’s what you can tailor:

• Select the wineries you wish to visit (up to five stops)
• Choose your pickup location (we come to you)
• Determine your starting time and pace
• Curate the playlist to match your vibe

Here’s what we provide:

• A hassle-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 gatherings
• 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 cheese platters, picturesque photo opportunities, and sparkling drinks.
• Team building events complete with engaging wine-related activities and exclusive access.
• Romantic getaways that include private tastings and scenic drives through the vineyards.

Relish the Remarkable Wines of Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is acclaimed for its outstanding cool-climate wines, which stand shoulder to shoulder with the finest 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 prized for its elegance, earthy undertones, 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 reflect the region's distinctive terroir.
• Sparkling Wine Home to Domaine Chandon, the Yarra Valley produces traditional method sparkling wines that rival the best Champagne. These effervescent delights are perfect for celebrations, whether for a significant occasion or a casual Tuesday evening.
• Cabernet Sauvignon Renowned for its robust structure, Yarra Valley Cabernet exhibits dark fruit flavours, fine tannins, and exceptional aging potential, making it a preferred choice for wine aficionados.
• Additional Varietals Furthermore, you’ll discover 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 showcases a thoughtfully curated selection of the valley’s finest cellar doors:

• Soumah of Yarra Valley This boutique winery focuses on Italian varietals. Immerse yourself in breathtaking views, a relaxed trattoria atmosphere, and exclusive wines that cannot be found anywhere else.
• Hubert Estate (St Huberts Cellar Door) A historic venue featuring a modern 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, superb wines, and a relaxed ambience 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 crowd favourite. Engage in guided chocolate tastings, enjoy gelato, and browse an array of treats available for purchase to 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 independently, our daily tour provides a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow wine enthusiasts, share meals, and enjoy a delightful day out without the stress of planning.
• Couples A wine tasting tour offers a memorable date experience. Relish 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 an excellent choice. Our private tours can accommodate groups of any size.
• Corporate Groups For team-building events, client entertainment, or year-end parties, we cater to various corporate groups, fostering a professional yet relaxed environment that is consistently well received.
• Visitors to Melbourne If you have a day to spare and wish to explore areas beyond the city limits, this is the day trip that locals frequently recommend.

Experience Culinary Delights: Beyond Wine and Chocolate

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

• Winery Restaurants Many cellar doors feature outstanding dining experiences. Oakridge, Yering Station, and Levantine Hill are celebrated for their exquisite dining options. 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, along with gelato, hot chocolate, and a shop brimming with delicious treats. This experience is included in our daily tour.
• Cheese & Artisan Produce The region proudly hosts 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 area 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 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 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. 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 provide 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 is 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 onboard. Lunch is pay-as-you-go.

How many wines will I have the opportunity to taste? You will 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 secure your spot.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol? Absolutely! 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 affect 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 requirements.

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 entirely customisable—you choose 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.