Planning a day trip to the Yarra Valley? This highly-rated winery tour, run by Vinetrekker Wine and Food Tours, promises a well-rounded experience of Australia’s famous wine region. With a focus on boutique wineries, beautiful scenery, and excellent food, it appeals to travelers seeking a relaxed yet enriching day out.
What makes this tour particularly attractive are its small-group setting, which ensures personalized attention, the diversity of vineyards visited, and the delicious gourmet lunch at Yering Station. On the flip side, you might want to consider the full 10-hour duration if you’re not used to long days or extensive travel.
If you love wine and scenery, crave top-notch food, and appreciate guides who are both knowledgeable and personable, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for those wanting a curated experience without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.
Key Points
- Small-group tours foster a more intimate, personalized experience.
- Visiting four different vineyards provides variety and insight into regional styles.
- The lunch at Yering Station offers a gourmet meal paired with estate wines and scenic views.
- Expert guides enhance the experience with interesting commentary and local insights.
- The tour is value-packed, considering the inclusions of tastings, lunch, and transportation.
- It caters to wine enthusiasts who appreciate boutique and well-known vineyards alike.
The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect
Ready for another glass? Here are more wine experiences we've reviewed in Yarra Valley
Pickup and Journey to the Yarra Valley
Most tours begin with hotel pickup, which is a big plus if you’re staying in Melbourne or nearby. The transportation, typically a comfortable Mercedes van, makes the roughly hour-long drive pleasant. The route takes you through suburbs like Templestowe, Eltham, and Kangaroo Ground, giving a glimpse of Melbourne’s leafy outskirts before entering the rolling hills of the Yarra Valley.
Travelers consistently mention the ease of this part of the experience. Reviewers like Richard from the UK appreciated that “pickup was uncomplicated and well communicated,” which sets a relaxed tone for the day.
De Bortoli Vineyard: Cheese and Wine Pairing
The first stop is De Bortoli Vineyard at Dixons Creek, known for its elegance and generous tastings. Here, visitors enjoy a cheese platter paired with selected wines, giving a taste of the region’s approachability and craftsmanship. One reviewer noted they appreciated the “delicious cheeses” and the chance to start the day with a relaxed tasting.
De Bortoli is a popular introduction, blending history and flavor with its reputation for high-quality wines. The pairing of cheese and wine at this vineyard often delights guests, giving an approachable start before moving to larger and more historic estates.
Yering Station: The Historic Heart of the Yarra Valley
Next, the tour visits Yering Station, the oldest vineyard in the region, established in 1838. This site is a must-see, with its historic buildings dating back to 1859, complemented by a gallery of local artworks and produce.
The highlight here is the estate wine tasting in the original winery, which offers a chance to sample Yering Station’s classic chardonnay, pinot noir, and sparkling wines. The tasting experience is enhanced by its scenic setting, and reviews often mention the “beautiful views” and “delicious wines.”
For lunch, guests move to Yering Station’s acclaimed restaurant. The a la carte menu features a selection of main courses paired with a glass of wine, allowing visitors to indulge in quality cuisine amidst gorgeous surroundings. Many reviewers, including Trudie from the UK, described the lunch as “lovely” and “gourmet,” praising the atmosphere and the views.
More Great Tours NearbyAfternoon Visits: Boutique and Family-Owned Wineries
Post-lunch, the tour shifts to smaller, more approachable wineries like Payten & Jones. This family-run operation produces small-batch wines like chardonnay, pinot noir, syrah, and Mediterranean varietals. Reported by reviewers as “producing wines with a personality,” it’s a chance to taste wines that have a distinctive character. Behn Payten and Troy Jones focus on approachable, approachable wines, often described as friendly and easy-drinking.
If Medhurst Vineyard is not open on the day, the itinerary includes options like Punt Road, Dominique Portet, Giant Steps, or Oakridge Vineyards—each offering a different vibe. Medhurst, established in 1999, is family-owned and situated in the Warramate Ranges, providing elegant table wines with a small-batch feel.
Final Stop(s): Unique and Characterful Vineyards
The last part of the day offers a chance to visit vineyards like Medhurst, known for their elevation and small production, or alternative boutique wineries. Visitors love the chance to sample a variety of styles and learn about different winemaking philosophies.
Throughout the day, guides provide insights into the regional wine scene, the history of each vineyard, and the unique qualities of their wines, elevating the experience beyond just tasting.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour’s value is bolstered by inclusions like hotel pickup, multiple tastings, cheese platter, main course lunch, and a glass of wine at Yering Station. Bottled water and coffee are also included, helping guests stay refreshed throughout the long day.
Not included are personal purchases—wine or souvenirs you might want to buy at each vineyard. The price, at $191 per person, is reasonable given the comprehensive experience, especially considering the high-quality inclusions, scenic stops, and expert guide. Many reviewers feel the tour offers good value, with some describing it as “fabulous,” “outstanding,” and “worth the price,” particularly for wine lovers looking for a curated day.
Transportation and Group Size
The tour operates in a small-group setting—most reviews highlight the benefit of personalized attention and the relaxed atmosphere. The Mercedes van is described as “immaculate,” and the intimacy allows for more interaction with guides like Shane, Rob, or Paul, who are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
Duration and Practicalities
The full-day experience lasts about 10 hours, starting with hotel pick-up (if in central Melbourne) and ending back at your accommodation or nearby. The long duration means you’ll want to be prepared for a lot of walking, tasting, and scenic driving.
Some considerations include dress code (smart casual, no singlets or flip-flops) and age restrictions (minimum age 18). The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so it’s best suited for able-bodied travelers.
Authentic Experiences and Guest Perspectives
Guests consistently mention how guides like Paul, Rob, Adrian, and Shane make the tour special with their deep knowledge and friendly approach. Richard from the UK said, “Great knowledge and great choice of wineries,” highlighting the curated nature of the itinerary.
Many reviewers also appreciate the variety—visiting both historic and boutique wineries, sampling different wine styles, and enjoying the beautiful landscape. Trudie from the UK called the day “wonderful,” and Gary from the US said, “Our guide Rob provided great color commentary and a very personable experience.”
Lunch at Yering Station is often singled out as a highlight, with many mentioning the “beautiful setting” and “delicious meals,” making the day feel luxurious without being overly formal.
Additional Noteworthy Details
Several reviews note how well-organized the trip is, with reconfirmation of pickup times and smooth transitions between stops. The inclusion of cheese pairings, multiple tastings, and the scenic backdrop ensure a memorable experience.
The Sum Up
This Yarra Valley winery tour offers a well-balanced, highly personalized day for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. With a good mix of historic and boutique vineyards, topped with a gourmet lunch at Yering Station, it provides excellent value for the price. The guides’ professionalism and local knowledge shine through, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
Ideal for those who want a relaxed yet rundown of the region’s wine scene, this tour is especially beneficial if you appreciate good food, scenic drives, and small-group intimacy. Although long, the day is crafted to be engaging and memorable—from the first sip of wine to the final toast at the end of the day.
If you’re visiting Melbourne and want to explore a renowned wine region with ease and style, this tour ticks all the boxes.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from or close to your Melbourne hotel is included in the tour, making logistics simple. If staying outside the city, you’ll meet in the central area.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 10 hours, offering a full day of tastings, sightseeing, and dining.
What’s the price?
At $191 per person, the tour includes multiple tastings, cheese and food pairings, a gourmet lunch, and transportation, making it a good value considering the experience.
Are drinks included at each vineyard?
Yes, wine tastings are included at every stop. You also receive a glass of wine with lunch and a cheese platter at De Bortoli.
Can I buy wine during the tour?
While wine purchases are not included, you are free to buy bottles at the vineyards, which are often offered at special prices.
Is this tour suitable for large groups?
No, it’s designed for small groups, ensuring a more personalized experience. Large groups are not the focus here.
What should I wear?
Smart casual attire is recommended. No sandals or flip-flops. Comfortable shoes are best for walking and vineyard visits.
Is there an age restriction?
Yes, the minimum age to participate is 18 years.
Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility for changing plans.
Overall, this Yarra Valley winery tour is a thoughtfully curated experience that balances scenic beauty, boutique wines, and fine dining in one seamless day. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy the region’s best without the stress of planning or the crowds of larger tours.
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