Small Group 6 guests: Ultimate Yarra Valley Food and Wine

If you’re considering a trip to Melbourne and want to explore Australia’s famous Yarra Valley without the usual crowds, this Small Group 6 Guests: Ultimate Yarra Valley Food and Wine Tour from Epicurean Tours might be just the ticket. Promising a more personalized, relaxed experience, it’s designed for those who prefer quality over quantity, with a maximum of six travelers per vehicle, comfortable luxury transport, and a focus on food, wine, and scenic beauty.

Based on glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, this tour seems to strike a balance between premium service and authentic tasting experiences. What we love most? The reputation of a knowledgeable guide, the chance to sample a great variety of wines—from pinot noir to chardonnay—and the inclusion of a delicious two-course lunch. One consideration? The tour occasionally goes slightly beyond the advertised group size, which might affect those expecting an ultra-exclusive experience. Overall, it’s ideal for wine lovers, foodies, or anyone looking for a relaxed, intimate day out in one of Australia’s most picturesque regions.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Intimate experience with a maximum of 6 guests, ensuring personalized attention.
• Luxury Transportation: Travel in a Mercedes van equipped with air conditioning and WiFi, making the journey comfortable and connected.
• Tasty Food & Wine Pairings: Enjoy wine tastings paired with cheese, oysters, and a hearty two-course lunch.
• Experienced Guide: Knowledgeable hosts like Nicci and Bill help elevate the experience, sharing insights about the vineyards and region.
• Flexible & Convenient: Pickup offered from Melbourne hotels, with a 7.5-hour schedule perfect for a day trip.
• Great Value: Priced at around $180 per person, offering a well-rounded experience with premium inclusions.

How the Tour Stands Out

When looking at wine tours in the Yarra Valley, many options are available, but few emphasize the personalized small-group experience quite like this one. Traveling in a luxury Mercedes van means you’ll avoid crowded bus tours, and the WiFi onboard makes it easy to share your scenic photos or catch up on messages during the drive. The trip lasts approximately 7.5 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed, which is a big plus for those who want a relaxed exploration.

The itinerary is designed to showcase the region’s best offerings, blending renowned wineries with boutique family-owned vineyards. One of the tour highlights, as noted by previous guests, is the wine and food pairing at DeBortoli, especially the cheese and wine combo, which reviewers called “tasty” and “excellent.” The stops are carefully curated to offer a mix of large, established brands and smaller, boutique wineries, providing a well-rounded taste of what the Yarra Valley has to offer.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup & Start

The tour kicks off at 10:00 am, with hotel pickup available, making it convenient for travelers staying in Melbourne. The small group size means you’ll often be greeted by a friendly guide—Nicci or Bill—who are praised for their personable approach and extensive knowledge.

First Stop: Yarra Valley

Your journey begins with scenic drives through the lush landscapes of the Yarra Valley. The region is renowned for its rolling vineyards, quaint farmsteads, and abundant wildlife—and, as one reviewer happily noted, even a surprise kangaroo sighting!

Wineries & Tastings

Expect visits to world-class family-owned wineries where the cellar doors are less commercial and more personal. You might find yourself chatting with passionate winemakers, sampling wines from pinot noir to chardonnay, and enjoying expertly paired tastings. As one guest shared, the wine selections were “great,” and the stops are designed to keep things relaxed, informative, and fun.

Lunch Experience

A real highlight of this tour is the two-course lunch included in the price. It’s more than just a quick bite; previous guests described it as “delicious” and well-paced, giving you time to savor your meal while soaking in the vineyard views. The lunch complements the wine tastings and offers a chance to connect with fellow travelers.

Final Stops & Return

The tour wraps up back at the original meeting point around 5:30 pm, giving you a full day of indulgence without feeling hurried. The focus remains on quality experiences—whether it’s the wine, the food, or the scenery—and guests consistently mention how well-organized and enjoyable the day was.

Transport & Comfort

Traveling in a Mercedes Valente means plenty of space and comfort, plus the added convenience of WiFi on board—ideal for sharing your favorite moments or planning the next stop. The vehicle is specifically chosen for small groups, ensuring you aren’t squeezed in with strangers, and the air conditioning maintains a comfortable climate regardless of the weather outside.

While some guests have expressed a desire for onboard toilets, it’s important to note that this small van doesn’t include a bathroom. The longest stretch between bathroom stops is just over an hour, so plan accordingly, especially if traveling with kids or those with specific needs.

Price & Value

At $180.84 per person, the tour offers good value for a premium experience. Included are tastings, a delicious lunch, snacks, water, and the luxury transport. Compared to larger group tours, the small size and personalized attention mean you’re likely to have a more relaxed, engaging day—without sacrificing quality or variety.

Previous guests have found the stops to be “great,” with excellent wine selections and tasty food pairing experiences. The guide’s expertise adds a layer of insight that enriches the visit, making it more than just a tasting session.

Reviews & Guest Experiences

Feedback consistently emphasizes the knowledgeability of guides like Nicci and Bill, who are praised for their friendly, approachable manner. Bill, in particular, delighted guests with scenic surprises—like kangaroo sightings—and shared plenty of interesting tidbits about the region.

One guest noted that, despite the advertised maximum of 6, sometimes there are 8 people, but everyone gets along well, and the experience remains enjoyable. The key is the small group size, which fosters a convivial atmosphere and allows for more personalized attention at each winery.

Guests also appreciated the delicious food—particularly the cheese and wine pairing at DeBortoli—and the well-chosen wine list, which included both well-known brands and boutique labels. The careful selection of venues, combined with the warm, welcoming atmosphere, makes this tour stand out.

Practical Details

• Duration: Approximately 7.5 hours
• Start Time: 10:00 am
• Meeting Point: Pick-up from Melbourne hotels (or designated meeting points)
• Transport: Luxury Mercedes Van with WiFi and air conditioning
• Inclusions: Wine tastings, cheese, oysters, two-course lunch, snacks, water
• Cost: $180.84 per person
• Booking: Most travelers book about 53 days in advance, indicating high demand
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts craving a relaxed, intimate journey through the Yarra Valley’s best vineyards. It suits those who prefer a small group and the comfort of luxury transport, along with food lovers eager to enjoy excellent pairings. It’s also ideal if you wish to avoid the busy, large tour buses and prefer a more personalized touch.

Travelers who value knowledgeable guides and authentic winery visits will find this tour highly rewarding. And, of course, if you’re looking for a scenic escape from Melbourne with memorable food and wine moments, this tour ticks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

This small-group Yarra Valley tour from Epicurean Tours offers a well-balanced blend of luxurious comfort, authentic winery experiences, and gourmet food in a relaxed setting. The personalized approach, combined with high-quality tastings and a delicious lunch, makes it a standout choice for those who want a genuine taste of Australia’s wine country without feeling part of a crowd.

The knowledgeable guides, like Nicci and Bill, add warmth and insight that elevate the day beyond just sampling wines. While the tour occasionally exceeds its maximum of six guests, reviewers agree that everyone still enjoys a friendly, convivial atmosphere.

This is a superb pick for anyone seeking a private, indulgent, and educational day in the Yarra Valley—perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a more tailored experience.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup in Melbourne, making it easy and convenient to start your day.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What type of vehicle is used?
Travelers are transported in a luxury Mercedes Valente van, equipped with air conditioning and WiFi.

Are water and snacks included?
Yes, water and snacks are included, so you won’t go thirsty or hungry during the day.

What is the group size?
Most of the time, the tour is limited to 6 guests for an intimate experience, but occasionally up to 8 guests might join.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those who prefer larger groups or require onboard toilets might find the small van less ideal.

Embark on this thoughtfully curated Yarra Valley food and wine experience for a true taste of Australia’s famed vineyard country—personal, premium, and genuinely enjoyable.