Melbourne: Yarra Valley Wine, Gin, Cheese/Fruit & Choc Tour

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Quick Intro

If you’re looking for a day full of delicious tastings, gorgeous scenery, and lively guides, the Yarra Valley Wine, Gin, Cheese, Fruit & Choc Tour from Melbourne might just be your perfect escape. We’ve seen glowing reviews about how this tour balances fun, flavor, and comfort—all for an accessible price.

What we love most: the variety of stops (up to 6), the friendly, knowledgeable guides who keep things lively, and the stunning vistas that make every tasting even sweeter. That said, it’s a packed day, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or a less structured schedule, this might feel a bit full-on.

This tour is ideal for foodies, wine lovers, or anyone wanting a comprehensive taste of Yarra Valley with a side of scenic beauty. It’s especially perfect if you’re after great value and want to hit a variety of spots without the hassle of planning yourself.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Varied stops: Visit wineries, a chocolate factory, a cheese or strawberry farm, and a gin distillery.
Passionate guides: Guides like Danny, Sean, and Stefan are praised for their knowledge, humor, and friendliness.
Scenic views: Expect stunning mountain vistas, rolling hills, and lakes that enhance every tasting experience.
Flexible options: You can switch out gin tastings for craft beer or cider, and customize some experiences.
Value for money: At $86, you get a full day of tastings, transportation, and memorable moments.
Small-group vibe: Max 20 people, creating a friendly, personalized atmosphere.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Off in Style and Comfort

Meet-up is in front of the Arts Centre Melbourne Spire at 8:45 am, a handy central point near cafes and restrooms—perfect for grabbing a coffee before hitting the road. The modern, air-conditioned bus makes the journey comfortable, with some lively tunes and engaging commentary from your guides.

First Stop: Coldstream Dairy or Strawberry Farm

Depending on the day, you’ll either visit Coldstream Dairy or Yarra Farm Fresh. At Coldstream Dairy (Thursday to Monday), you’ll enjoy guided tastings of three local cheeses paired with crackers, chutneys, and jams. Reviewers have praised their cheese selection, with one stating, “the cheese was amazing,” and noting the guided aspect made the experience especially enjoyable.

From Tuesday to Wednesday, the tour takes a different turn with a stop at a local strawberry farm to taste fresh strawberries, with a complimentary punnet for lucky guests. This switch-up keeps the experience fresh and allows the tour to showcase seasonal produce. It’s worth noting this gift ends on September 30, 2025.

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Wine with a View: Soumah and Yering Station

Next, your guides lead you to some of Yarra Valley’s top vineyards. Soumah is renowned for its epic mountain vistas, where you can smell and sip a variety of wines amid stunning scenery. One reviewer describes Soumah’s views as “epic,” and highlights how tasting wines in such a setting elevates the experience.

Later, you’ll visit Yering Station or Greenstone, depending on the day, for more wine tastings—usually 5-6 different types at each stop. The views here are also noteworthy, with lakes and rolling hills creating a picturesque backdrop. Guests often comment on how these stops feel like tasting in a postcard.

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Lunch at Quarters Restaurant

Lunch is at St Huberts Winery’s Quarters Restaurant, where guests can purchase their own meals. While lunch isn’t included, reviewers mention the menu is great value, and the setting is beautiful. After eating, you can wander the estate or sample more wines, gins, or even whiskies at your own expense. It’s a relaxed yet elegant spot that lets you soak in the vineyard vibe.

Afternoon Sips: Chocolates and Gins

The second half of the day is equally indulgent. The Yarra Valley Chocolate Factory serves up a guided tasting of 10-12 chocolates, from rich truffles to quirky creations. Guests say the chocolates are “very quick” but note that the scale means the tasting feels more like a fun, quick indulgence rather than a gourmet experience.

Later, at the Four Pillars Distillery, you’ll enjoy a paddle tasting of four gins with a mixer—an experience highly praised for its lively, friendly atmosphere. If gin isn’t your thing, you’re welcome to opt out or switch to craft beer or cider if you’ve chosen the full experience. Multiple reviews highlight guides like Sean and Danny for their humor and knowledge, making even gin tastings memorable.

End of Day and Return

By around 5:30 pm, the bus heads back to Melbourne, with a drop-off in Federation Square. The return trip is often lively, with guests singing along to the tunes, as some reviewers point out. The full day runs about 8.5 hours, so come prepared for a full schedule but with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Excellent Value

At $86 per person, this tour offers an incredible amount of tastings—up to 6 stops, with wine, cheese, chocolate, and gin—all in one day. Reviewers frequently mention how much they get for their money, with one saying, “for what we paid, we got a lot,” especially considering the variety of experiences.

Passionate and Knowledgeable Guides

Guests consistently praise guides like Danny, Sean, and Stefan for their ability to entertain, inform, and make everyone feel at home. Reviews mention their humor, local insights, and attentiveness, which elevate an already enjoyable experience.

Diverse Experiences

From wine tastings amid mountain views to chocolate sampling and gin paddle tastings, the tour covers a broad spectrum of flavors and sights. The flexibility to swap gin for beers or switch out certain stops ensures the experience can be tailored to your tastes.

Scenic Locations

Expect breathtaking views at Soumah, Yering Station, and other vineyard stops. Guests love how these settings add to the enjoyment of each tasting—whether it’s the lake views or mountain backdrops.

Small Group Atmosphere

With a maximum of 20 participants, the tour maintains an intimate, friendly vibe. Guests mention how this fosters a more personalized experience, allowing for better interaction with guides and fellow travelers.

Specifics to Keep in Mind

Timing and Schedule

The tour departs promptly at 9:00 am, so punctuality is key. The full itinerary is subject to change, but the sequence generally covers cheese or strawberries, wine tastings, lunch, chocolates, and gins. The flexible options, like switching distillery experiences, add value for those with specific preferences.

Transportation

Travel is in a modern, comfortable bus that keeps the group connected and relaxed. The ride is about an hour from Melbourne to Yarra Valley, with scenic commentary during the journey. Guests often comment on how the bus ambiance amplifies the fun.

Price and Inclusions

At $86, the tour covers transportation, tastings at multiple stops, and some special gifts (like strawberries, when in season). Lunch and snacks are extra, but many find the value outstanding given the number of tastings and sights.

Accessibility and Suitability

While the tour is suitable for children (excluding those under 4), it may not be ideal for people with mobility issues due to walking or stairs at some venues. The tour is also not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

Final Thoughts

This Yarra Valley tour proves that you can enjoy a full day of delicious experiences without breaking the bank. The variety of stops—from cheese and chocolates to wine and gin—means there’s something for all. The guides’ friendly, humorous approach makes the day effortless and fun, even for those who aren’t wine connoisseurs.

The breathtaking views and relaxed estate atmospheres make each tasting feel special. Plus, the flexibility to customize experiences, such as swapping out gin for beer, enhances the tour’s appeal. If you love good food, great drinks, and beautiful scenery—and want to do it all in one well-organized package—this trip hits the mark.

For those seeking a lively, informative, and tasty adventure that balances fun with value, this tour is hard to beat. It’s perfect for groups, couples, or solo travelers eager to indulge and explore without the stress of planning.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included but is available for purchase at Quarters Restaurant at St Huberts Winery. Guests often find the restaurant offers good value and a beautiful setting.

Can I switch out the gin tasting?
Yes, if you select the full experience, you can swap the gin paddle for a craft beer or cider at no extra cost, or opt for another winery experience like Payten & Jones.

What is the meeting point and time?
Meet in front of Arts Centre Melbourne Spire at 8:45 am. The tour departs sharply at 9:00 am, so arriving on time is essential.

How many stops are there?
Up to 6 stops, including cheese, fruit or strawberry tasting, two wineries, a chocolate factory, and a gin distillery.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
Children aged 2-17 are welcome but won’t partake in alcohol tastings. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

How long does the tour last?
About 8.5 hours, including transportation, tastings, and breaks, with the return arriving around 5:30 pm.

Final Words

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of the Yarra Valley’s best—wines, gins, chocolates, cheeses, and stunning views—all in one seamless day. The mix of passionate guides, scenic stops, and delicious treats makes it a compelling choice for anyone wanting to experience the region without the hassle of organizing multiple visits. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just a curious traveler craving good vibes and good flavors, this tour delivers.