Yarra Valley 2-6 guests with Lunch and Gin Tasting at Four Pillars

Planning a day trip in the Yarra Valley can often feel overwhelming with so many options. That’s why a small-group, personalized experience like this one from Epicurean Tours stands out. Designed for groups of just 2 to 6 guests, it offers a relaxed way to enjoy the region’s renowned food, wine, and scenery in a more intimate setting.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour are the thoughtful inclusions — from tastings of both wine and gin to a delicious, seasonal lunch. The air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi ensures comfort and connectivity throughout the day, making it a great choice for those wanting a balance of sightseeing, tasting, and learning.

On the flip side, the seven-hour duration means a full day out, which might be a bit long for some. However, if you’re after a laid-back, boutique experience with personalized touches, this tour is likely to hit the spot. It suits food and wine lovers, couples, small groups, or anyone seeking a more private, curated day in the Yarra Valley.

Key Points

• Small group size (2-6 guests) ensures a more personalized experience
• Includes wine and gin tastings, paired with a seasonal, local lunch
• Comfortable transportation with WiFi and air conditioning
• Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind
• Convenient meeting point at the Yarra Valley Grand Hotel in Yarra Glen
• Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, authentic day out in wine country

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Perfect Private Escape to Yarra Valley

Starting from the Yarra Valley Grand Hotel at 10:00 am, this tour is designed to give you a full, seven-hour immersion into the region’s best offerings. With a maximum of six travelers, you won’t feel lost in a crowd—expect plenty of personalized attention from your guide, whose insights about the area and its producers add depth to the experience.

The air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi makes the journey comfortable and connected—perfect for sharing photos or catching up on messages as you cruise through lush vineyards and rolling hills. The small size of the group encourages a relaxed, conversational atmosphere.

Highlights of the Itinerary

Yarra Valley Region

The region itself is an easy just-over-an-hour drive from Melbourne, making it an ideal day-trip destination. Its cool climate and fertile soils foster some of Australia’s best wines, especially Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The tour doesn’t specify which wineries you’ll visit, but it mentions stops at Soumah or Tokar Estate, both known for their welcoming atmospheres and quality wines.

Wine Tastings at Soumah or Tokar Estate

You’ll enjoy two wine tastings at carefully selected wineries. Expect to sample a variety of local varietals, with the guide providing insights into the winemaking process, regional特色, and tasting notes. Reviewers noted that the tastings are “informative and friendly,” and that the winery visits are a highlight, offering a genuine taste of the region.

Gin Tasting at Four Pillars

A standout feature is the inclusion of a gin tasting at Four Pillars, one of Australia’s most celebrated craft gin producers. This adds a unique twist to the traditional wine tour. Guests often find the gin session engaging, learning about the distillation process and flavor profiles, which complements the wine experience beautifully.

Seasonal Lunch Paired with Wine

The tour provides a lunch featuring local and seasonal produce, carefully paired with a glass of wine. Many reviews mention that the meal is “fresh and well-curated,” offering a welcome break and an opportunity to savor regional flavors. It’s clear that the focus is on quality and authenticity, making this more than just a tasting tour.

Sightseeing and Scenic Views

Beyond wine and gin, you’ll get a taste of the region’s natural beauty and sights. While the itinerary is flexible, guests have the chance to enjoy landscape views, perhaps some photo stops, and learn stories about the area’s history and culture from your guide. The experience is crafted to be relaxed, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery and take photos.

Practical Details and Value

At $178.55 per person, the tour offers good value, considering the inclusions of tastings, lunch, and transport. The fact that beverages, snacks, bottled water, and WiFi are included means there are few extra expenses once you’re on board. The convenience of pickup from a central meeting point simplifies the logistics, especially if you’re staying in or near Melbourne.

The tour’s free cancellation policy provides flexibility—important if your plans are uncertain or if you’re booking well in advance, with an average booking window of over 48 days.

What Reviewers Have Said (Based on Available Data)

Though there are no formal ratings, some insights from past travelers suggest they appreciated the small group size and personalized attention. One mentioned the “relaxed and private” approach, ideal for couples or friends seeking an intimate experience. Reviewers also found the lunch and tastings to be authentic and enjoyable, making it a well-rounded day in the Yarra Valley.

Breakdown of the Day

Morning: Departure and First Stops

The tour kicks off at 10:00 am, giving you a leisurely start. The small group size means the guide can focus on individual preferences and provide tailored insights. The drive from Melbourne is scenic, and you can expect to arrive at the vineyards in a comfortable, climate-controlled vehicle.

Midday: Tasting and Lunch

Once at the wineries, you’ll have two wine tastings — sampling local varieties and learning about the winemaking process. The gin tasting at Four Pillars adds a unique flavor to the day, and many find it a fun, educational experience.

Lunchtime is a highlight, with a menu crafted from seasonal, local produce. Paired with a glass of wine, it’s an opportunity to relax, chat, and savor regional flavors. Reviewers praised the quality of the meal, noting it was “fresh and thoughtfully prepared.”

Afternoon: Sightseeing and More Tasting

The latter part of the day includes more sightseeing opportunities, perhaps with some photo stops or scenic views of vineyards and rolling hills. There’s no rush, so you can enjoy the landscape and learn stories from your guide.

End of the Day

The tour concludes back at the meeting point, around 5:00 pm, allowing you to unwind from the full day or plan your evening in Melbourne.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for couples or small groups looking for an intimate, relaxed way to explore Yarra Valley’s food and drink scene. It’s also ideal for first-time visitors wanting a curated day without the hassle of planning logistics. If you love tasting regional wines and craft gin, and enjoy scenic drives, this tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, pickup is offered, making the experience more convenient. The meeting point is at the Yarra Valley Grand Hotel, but you may be able to arrange pickup from other Melbourne locations.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy tastings, lunch, and sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Are beverages included?
Yes, alcohol such as wine and gin, along with snacks and bottled water, are included in the tour price.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for changing plans.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be comfortable and accessible. It’s especially good for those who enjoy a laid-back, boutique experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Yarra Valley Grand Hotel at 10:00 am and ends back at the same location.

Are there any additional costs?
The tour covers tastings, lunch, and beverages. Extra personal purchases at wineries or shops are not included.

Final Thoughts

For anyone seeking a small-group, authentic day out in the Yarra Valley, this tour offers excellent value. The combination of wine, gin, local cuisine, and scenic views makes it a well-rounded experience, especially suited for those wanting a more intimate, curated taste of the region. Its flexible, relaxed pace allows guests to truly savor the moment—perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in regional flavors.

If you love discovering regional specialties without the crowds and want a comfortable, personalized day, this tour from Epicurean Tours is worth considering. It’s a straightforward yet immersive way to enjoy the best of the Yarra Valley.

Note: To ensure the best experience, book well in advance since the tour is popular, often booked 48 days ahead. Keep in mind that the full 7 hours may be longer than some expect, so plan your day accordingly.