Wine Tasting Tours from Melbourne

Experience the Finest Wines of Victoria Without the Driving Stress

Located just an hour from Melbourne, the picturesque Yarra Valley boasts more than 80 cellar doors that produce some of Australia’s most exceptional cool-climate wines. This stunning region is renowned for its elegant Pinot Noir, world-class Chardonnay, and exquisite traditional method sparkling wines. Discover the essence of wine country in the Yarra Valley, where every sip tells a story.

Red Carpet Wine Tours offers a seamless journey to the heart of wine country. Enjoy handpicked visits to exclusive wineries, experience tastings directly from the cellar door, and learn what sets Yarra Valley wines apart. Forget about the designated driver; there's no need for crowded bus tours. Immerse yourself in a day filled with exceptional wine, breathtaking views, and a relaxed atmosphere.

What Awaits You on a Wine Tasting Tour?

Embarking on a wine tasting tour transcends mere drinking; it is a journey of discovery. Here’s a glimpse into a typical day:

Engage with Winemakers At most cellar doors, you will be guided through tastings by knowledgeable staff who are passionate about their wines. They will share insights into the varietals, the specifics of the vintage, and what makes each wine distinct. Don’t hesitate to ask questions; they genuinely enjoy sharing their expertise.

Sample Over 20 Varieties Throughout 4-5 winery stops, you will have the opportunity to taste a diverse array of styles, from crisp whites and aromatic rosés to rich reds and refined sparkling wines. Most cellar doors typically offer 4-6 wines per tasting, ensuring a comprehensive experience.

Learn at Your Own Pace You don’t need to be a wine connoisseur to appreciate our tours. They cater to everyone, from novices to seasoned enthusiasts. Expect a friendly atmosphere where the focus is on enjoying good wine and great company, free from pretentiousness.

Savour Lunch with Scenic Views Most tours include a lunch stop at a winery restaurant, where you can pair local wines with seasonal dishes. Whether you prefer a leisurely lunch at Domaine Chandon or a casual meal at Hubert Estate, dining in wine country enhances the overall experience.

Take Home Your Favourites Did you discover a wine that captured your heart? Most cellar doors provide bottles for purchase, often at exclusive cellar door prices. We have chilled coolers on board to ensure your selections remain safe during your journey.

Explore Our Exclusive 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 ready-made adventure in the Yarra Valley.

What’s included in your tour:

• Convenient pickup from Federation Square at 9am, returning around 5pm
• Tastings at five distinguished 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) with breathtaking vineyard views
• 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.

Custom Private Wine Tasting Tours Tailored Just for You

Do you wish to select your preferred wineries? Is there a birthday, hens day, or special occasion on the horizon? Our private tours grant you complete control over your experience.

Here’s what you can decide:

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

What we offer:

• A stress-free, fully hosted experience tailored to your needs
• Luxury Mercedes vehicles for 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 lunch in the vines.
• Hens day tours offering cheese boards, picturesque photo stops, and bubbles.
• Team building events with engaging wine games and exclusive access.
• Romantic getaways that include private tastings and scenic drives through the vineyard.

Indulge in the Exquisite Wines of the Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is renowned for its exceptional cool-climate wines that rival the finest wines globally. Here’s a selection of what you can anticipate at the cellar doors:

• Pinot Noir This is the Yarra Valley’s signature red wine. It is known for its elegance, earthy notes, and well-balanced flavour profile—truly exemplary of Australian Pinot.
• Chardonnay The Yarra Valley offers a range of Chardonnay styles, from crisp and mineral to rich and creamy. Many wineries feature single-vineyard and reserve selections that showcase the region's terroir.
• Sparkling Wine Home to Domaine Chandon, the Yarra Valley produces traditional method sparkling wines that can compete with the finest Champagne. These bubbles are perfect for celebrations, whether special occasions or casual Tuesday evenings.
• Cabernet Sauvignon Known for its full-bodied structure, Yarra Valley Cabernet boasts dark fruit flavours, fine tannins, and excellent ageing potential, making it a favourite among wine aficionados.
• Other Varietals In addition, you’ll discover Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Nebbiolo, and more—especially from boutique producers experimenting with Italian and French varietals.

Wineries Included in Our Tours

Our daily tour features a handpicked selection of the valley’s finest cellar doors:

• Soumah of Yarra Valley A boutique winery that specialises in Italian varietals. Experience 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, indigenous art gallery, and the exceptional Quarters Restaurant for a delightful lunch.
• Balgownie Estate Our final stop of the day, known for expansive views, superb wines, and a relaxed atmosphere to conclude your afternoon.
• Domaine Chandon Australia’s premier sparkling wine producer, available as a lunch stop on our daily tour or a highlight of private tours.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie While not a winery, it is a crowd favourite. Enjoy guided chocolate tastings, gelato, and plenty of 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 visiting Melbourne independently, our daily tour is your perfect opportunity to meet fellow wine enthusiasts, enjoy shared dining experiences, and have a social day out without the need for planning.
• Couples A wine tasting tour makes for an unforgettable date day. Enjoy exquisite wine, stunning scenery, and peace of mind knowing there’s no debate over who drives home.
• Groups of Friends Whether it’s a casual catch-up or a birthday celebration, a wine tasting experience with friends is always a fantastic idea. Our private tours can accommodate groups of any size.
• Corporate Groups For team building, client entertainment, or end-of-year celebrations, we have hosted numerous corporate groups. Expect a professional, relaxed atmosphere that is always a hit.
• Visitors to Melbourne If you have a free day and wish to explore beyond the city, this is the day trip that locals highly recommend.

Beyond Wine: Discover Food, Chocolate & More Delights

Wine tasting tours extend beyond just wine. The Yarra Valley is a culinary destination in its own right.

• Winery Restaurants Many cellar doors feature exceptional on-site restaurants. Oakridge, Yering Station, and Levantine Hill are celebrated for fine dining experiences. Zonzo Estate is famous for its delightful Italian cuisine, while Chandon offers a touch of French elegance.
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Experience a guided tasting of over 10 chocolates, along with gelato, hot chocolate, and a shop full of delicious treats. This experience is included in our daily tour.
• Cheese & Artisan Produce The region boasts artisan cheesemakers, vibrant farmers markets, and 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 incorporated into private tours.

Essential Information for Your Tour

• Where do tours start from? Our daily tour departs from Federation Square (outside the Ian Potter Centre) at 9am sharp. Private tours can pick you up from your doorstep.
• How long does the tour last? The daily tour returns to Melbourne around 5pm. Private tours offer flexibility—while most run from 9am to 5pm, we can adjust as needed.
• Do I need prior wine knowledge? Absolutely not. Our tours are designed for all levels of wine enthusiasts. Just bring your curiosity and a love for learning.
• What should I wear? Smart casual attire is ideal. Ensure you wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking around cellar doors and vineyards.
• Can I take wine home with me? Certainly! We have chilled coolers on board to keep your purchases safe and fresh.
• Is lunch included in the tour? 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 (wineries and chocolaterie), and chilled coolers on board. Lunch is pay-as-you-go.

How many wines will I get to taste? You’ll sample over 20 wines across 4-5 cellar doors throughout the day.

Do I need to book ahead of time? Yes, advance bookings are essential as tours tend to fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Book online to secure your spot.

Can I join if I don’t consume alcohol? Absolutely! Many stops provide non-alcoholic options, and the scenery, food, and chocolate alone are worth the trip.

What happens if it rains? Our tours proceed rain or shine. Tastings are conducted indoors at cellar doors, so weather typically does not impact the experience.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs? Most wineries we visit are wheelchair accessible. Please contact us in advance, and we’ll confirm that the itinerary accommodates your requirements.

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

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