Private Tour: Yarra Valley Wine, Cheese, Gin & Chocolatrie

Planning a day out in Victoria and considering a visit to the Yarra Valley? This private tour review offers a detailed look at one of the region’s most popular experiences—focused on wine, spirits, gourmet treats, and unique local stops. Designed for small groups of up to six, it promises personalized attention, flexibility, and a chance to truly savor the region’s best. We’ll cover everything from the itinerary to what makes this tour stand out—and what to keep in mind before booking.

Three things we really like about this tour:
First, its customizability—you’re able to pick the wineries, breweries, or wildlife spots that excite you most. Second, the small-group vibe makes for a relaxed, intimate experience, far from the hustle of big coach tours. Third, the knowledgeable guides like Ronnie, who share insider stories and tips, elevate the entire day.

The only consideration? Since tasting fees are extra, you’ll want to budget accordingly if you’re aiming to sample extensively. This tour suits wine lovers, foodies, and those eager for a flexible, personal day exploring Victoria’s premier countryside.

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Key Points

Flexible Itinerary: Choose 2-3 wineries, breweries, or wildlife encounters.
Personalized Experience: Small groups ensure direct interaction with guides.
Quality Tastings: Sample from around 65 wineries, with some notable stops like Chandon.
Inclusive Transport: Comfortable, spacious vehicles replace crowded buses.
Cost & Value: Tasting fees are nominal and often refundable, with a lunch included.
Timing: The full day lasts 9 hours, with pickups around 8:30-9 am and return by evening.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

This private Yarra Valley tour is designed to be as much about your preferences as it is about showcasing the region’s finest offerings. Departing from Melbourne, you’ll be welcomed into a spacious vehicle—likely a grey Volkswagen Van, as noted by guides—and whisked into wine country in comfort. The day’s structure offers a lot of freedom. You can tailor your stops, making this a truly bespoke experience.

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The Journey Begins: Pick-up & First Stops

The tour kicks off with a prompt pickup, usually around 8:30-9 am, giving you ample time for a relaxed day. Guides like Ronnie or Gus are praised for their friendliness and insider knowledge, helping set a warm, welcoming tone. From the start, you’ll appreciate the small group size—this isn’t a crowd but a cozy gathering of up to six people, allowing for more engaging conversations and spontaneous changes to the plan.

Wineries & Tastings: Exploring the Vineyards

With access to about 65 wineries, the choices are almost endless. Most tastings cost between AUD$5 and $20, which are typically refunded if you purchase wine. The tour allows you to select 2 or 3 wineries to visit, giving a chance to explore different styles—be it a traditional estate or a boutique producer. One highlight is a tasting of 6 sparkling wines at Chandon, with discounts on purchases—a fun opportunity to indulge and bring some bubbles home.

Guests have shared that the tastings are diverse and thoughtfully curated. Some reviewers, like Una from New Zealand, mentioned the “fantastic” food and wine, and how guides like Harrison made the stops memorable. The flexibility to choose which wineries to visit means you’ll avoid the cookie-cutter feel of fixed itineraries—perfect for those who want a more personalized experience.

Lunch & Culinary Delights

A standout feature is the included lunch, averaging around $35 per head. It’s a chance to relax and refuel, often paired with a good glass of wine or a tasting paddle. The food quality and setting are generally well-reviewed, adding a flavorful pause in your day.

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Beyond Wine: Spirits, Wildlife & Chocolates

The tour’s versatility shines as you decide what else to explore after your wine tastings. Options include visiting a Gin or Whiskey distillery, which is perfect for spirits lovers, or the Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary—a hit among visitors for experiencing native Australian animals up close. Entry to the sanctuary costs about $40 per person, according to reviews, and adds an engaging element if you’re interested in wildlife.

A sweet alternative is a stop at a Chocolaterie, where you can indulge in handcrafted chocolates and confections. This variety in stops keeps the day interesting and caters to different tastes—whether you prefer a glass of bubbly, a wildlife encounter, or a decadent treat.

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Scenic Views & Authentic Encounters

Throughout the day, you’ll be surrounded by rolling vineyards, lush landscapes, and scenic vistas—perfect for photo enthusiasts and those who want to savor the countryside. The guides are praised for sharing stories about the region’s winemaking history and local culture, enriching your understanding beyond just tasting.

The Value of a Private Tour

At $495 per group up to six, this experience packs a lot into the nine hours, making it excellent value for those wanting a personalized, flexible day. The price includes pick-up and drop-off, comfortable transportation, and the chance to craft an itinerary that reflects your interests.

Compared to large bus tours, you’ll enjoy more intimacy and control over your stops, which can significantly enhance the overall enjoyment. The smaller group size also means better engagement with guides who are eager to share their knowledge and answer questions.

Practical Considerations

While most tastings are refunded upon purchase, budget for extra if you plan to indulge in multiple tastings. Keep in mind that optional activities like wildlife encounters or distillery visits will add to your expenses. The tour operates for roughly 9 hours, departing in the morning and returning around 6:30 pm, giving you a relaxed, full day without feeling rushed.

What Reviewers Say: Authentic Insights

Feedback from past travelers emphasizes the expert guidance and scenic beauty. Meredith from Australia highlighted the “wonderful day” with a driver named Ronnie who went “out of his way” to ensure everyone had a great time. Una appreciated the “fantastic” stops and the quality of food and drinks. These reviews suggest that the tour offers a genuine, satisfying experience, especially if you enjoy engaging guides and tailored itineraries.

Many also value the small group setting, which fosters camaraderie and flexibility. The ability to choose stops based on your interests means you’re not stuck with a rigid schedule, a feature praised in reviews and one of the tour’s biggest selling points.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This private Yarra Valley experience is perfect for small groups of friends, couples, or families looking for a leisurely day with personalized touches. It suits those who appreciate gourmet tastings, scenic views, and the flexibility to craft their own adventure. If you’re passionate about wine, spirits, or Australian wildlife, you’ll find plenty to love here.

The tour’s value for money becomes obvious when considering the intimate setting, expert guides, and the wide array of options available. The flexibility to select your stops means no two days need to be the same, promising an experience tailored to your interests.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, customizable, and well-guided exploration of the Yarra Valley’s best, this tour offers a memorable way to enjoy Victoria’s renowned wine and food scene.

FAQ

How many wineries can I visit on this tour?
You can select 2 or 3 wineries, depending on your preferences, as part of the flexible itinerary.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers pick-up and drop-off in Melbourne, comfortable transport, and a personalized experience for your group. Tastings are extra but typically refunded upon purchase.

Are meals included?
Yes, a delicious lunch at around $35 per person is included, often paired with wine.

Can I visit a wildlife sanctuary?
Yes, you can choose to visit the Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary, where encounters with native Australian animals are available for about $40 per person.

What types of tastings are available?
You’ll find a variety of wine tastings, including sparkling wines at Chandon, and possibly tastings at breweries, distilleries, or chocolateries.

Is this tour suitable for wine novices?
Absolutely. Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience accessible for all levels of wine and spirits enthusiasts.

What is the typical duration of the tour?
The full experience lasts around 9 hours, departing in the morning and returning by approximately 6:30 pm.

In essence, this private Yarra Valley tour offers a balanced mix of flexibility, intimacy, and gourmet delights—ideal for travelers who want to craft their perfect day while exploring one of Australia’s top wine regions.