Epic Yarra Valley Wine Tour + Lunch, Chocolate & Gin/Beer Option

Thinking about escaping Melbourne for a day to indulge in some of Australia’s best produce? The Epic Yarra Valley Wine Tour + Lunch, Chocolate & Gin/Beer Option promises a hassle-free experience packed with tastings, scenic views, and delicious food. With a perfect 5.0 rating from over 1,500 reviews, it’s clear this tour strikes a chord with travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic day out.

What we love about this tour are the carefully curated winery visits, the generous two-course lunch with wine included, and the flexibility to swap final winery stops for craft gin or beer tastings. The fact that all logistics are sorted, with comfortable transport and small group sizes, makes it an appealing choice.

The only potential caveat? The tour runs on sunny days (which is often the case in summer), so if flies, heat, or sun bother you, it’s worth preparing accordingly. Perfect for wine lovers, foodies, or anyone wanting a taste of Victoria’s renowned countryside without the fuss of planning, this tour suits those who appreciate good value, authentic experiences, and a relaxed pace.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Enjoy visits to four hand-picked wineries, a two-course lunch, and the option to explore a chocolate factory, all included.
• Expert Guides & Small Groups: Knowledgeable guides like Stefan and Danny ensure an engaging experience in intimate settings.
• Flexible Tasting Options: Swap the last winery for a gin distillery or brewery, perfect for varied tastes.
• Comfort & Ease: Hassle-free transfers from Melbourne’s CBD mean you won’t have to worry about driving.
• Great Value for Money: For around $130, you get multiple tastings, a meal, and several memorable stops.
• Authentic & Fun Atmosphere: Reviewers consistently highlight the friendly guides, great company, and scenic locations.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary: A Well-Structured Day of Sipping and Scenery

Meet in the artsy heart of Melbourne at the Arts Centre Melbourne Spire by 8:45 am, ready for a day of wine and fun. The tour departs promptly at 9:00 am, making punctuality important to keep the schedule on track. From there, it’s about a 45-minute drive through some of Victoria’s most picturesque landscapes, with guides like Stefan and Danny adding local insights along the way.

Yering Station is usually the first stop. Known for its historical charm and high-quality wines, this spot offers a chance to explore their expansive estate and sample a variety of styles. Reviewers consistently mention their appreciation for the quality tastings here, with one describing the experience as “a chance to enjoy wines you may not have tried before in beautiful surroundings.”

Depending on the day, the tour then visits Soumah or Tokar Estate. Soumah is praised for its boutique vibe and diverse range of wines, with one guest noting the “excellent service and a lovely atmosphere.” Tokar impresses with its acclaimed Tempra and other styles, offering guided tastings that many say are informative and unhurried.

The Lunch: A Shared Two-Course Feast with a Glass of Wine

One of the highlights, according to reviews, is the delicious two-course meal, typically featuring antipasto and mains with sides. Guests say the food is “excellent,” with some mentioning that mains are shared, which adds a communal, convivial vibe. Included in the price is a glass of wine, making the dining experience both enjoyable and convenient.

The Wineries: Small-Scale Producers & Hidden Gems

Visiting boutique wineries like Payten & Jones provides a chance to taste eclectic, locally-made wines. Reviewers highlight that these smaller wineries often let visitors sample their full range and purchase bottles directly—perfect for wine enthusiasts wanting to bring home something special. Several mention being surprised by the quality and uniqueness of the wines, often describing the tasting as “really cool” and “a highlight.”

The Sweet Finish: Chocolate & Ice Cream

No matter your sweet tooth, the Yarra Valley Chocolate & Ice-Cream Factory caps off the day perfectly. It’s a chance to indulge in handmade chocolates, jams, and locally-made ice cream. Multiple reviews mention this stop as “absolutely delicious,” with many buyers taking home a few treats or gifts. It’s a lighthearted, fun way to conclude the tour.

The Optional Tasting Swap: Gin & Beer

On certain days, you can opt to skip the last winery and instead visit Four Pillars Distillery for gin or Watts River Brewing for craft beers. Both options are highly rated, with travelers noting the knowledgeable guides’ ability to make tasting fun and educational.

Return & Reflection

The tour wraps up around 5:30 pm at Federation Square, giving you enough time to relax or continue exploring Melbourne. The small group size (max 20) means you’ll get plenty of personalized attention, and the comfortable mini-bus ensures a smooth ride.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

The value here is undeniable. For around $132, you’re getting multiple tastings, a hearty meal, and visits to some of Victoria’s top producers—all without the hassle of organizing transport or navigating the countryside solo. The guides earn consistent praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to keep the day flowing smoothly, even when adjusting the itinerary to meet guest preferences.

The scenic drives and small group setting foster a relaxed, social atmosphere—perfect for solo travelers, couples, or groups of friends. Reviewers frequently mention making new friends and sharing the joy of tasting and discovery.

Foodies and wine lovers will appreciate the variety of wineries and the quality of the tastings. Many reviewers highlight the “excellent wines” and “delicious lunch,” emphasizing the genuine care taken to showcase the best local produce.

Those seeking something special beyond wine—like craft gin or beer—will find the swap options add extra value, with the guides providing insights into the local craft scene.

A Few Considerations

While the tour is generally praised for its organization and value, it’s worth noting that the day is scheduled around good weather. Summer visitors should be prepared for flies or heat, and those with mobility issues should be aware that some stops involve walking around estates or stairs.

Also, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickups or additional tastings or gifts at the chocolate factory, so budget for extras if interested.

Final Thoughts

This Yarra Valley tour offers a well-rounded day filled with tastings, stunning scenery, delicious food, and friendly guides. Its small-group format and all-in-one approach make it ideal for those who want a stress-free, authentic experience without sacrificing quality or value.

If you’re a wine enthusiast eager to explore top boutique wineries, a foodie craving a hearty lunch, or simply someone wanting a fun, social day out with knowledgeable locals, this tour hits the mark. The option to include gin or beer tastings adds a fun twist, catering to a range of tastes and interests.

This tour is a smart choice for anyone visiting Melbourne who values genuine experiences, good company, and a taste of Victoria’s finest produce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at Arts Centre Melbourne Spire, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What is the approximate duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours and 30 minutes, from around 8:45 am to 5:30 pm.

Can I customize the tasting experiences?
Yes, on certain days, you can swap the last winery for a gin distillery or brewery. Contact the operator beforehand to confirm availability.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a two-course shared lunch with a glass of wine is part of the package.

What wineries are visited?
Typically, Yering Station, Soumah, Tokar Estate, Helen & Joey Estate, and Payten & Jones. The exact stops may vary depending on the day.

Are the tastings at each winery guided?
Yes, guided tastings are included, with the guides offering insights into the wines and the wineries’ histories.

Can I buy wines or other products at the stops?
Absolutely. Many wineries and the chocolate factory sell their products, giving you a chance to bring home some favorites.

Is this suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour is mainly for adults 18+ and involves some walking around estates, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a positive attitude. If you’re sensitive to flies or heat, pack accordingly.