Yarra Valley Food Wine and Gin Tour Departing From Melbourne

Exploring the Yarra Valley on a guided tour offers more than just a tasting experience; it’s a well-rounded day of scenic views, delicious food, and memorable moments. This particular tour, run by Rick’s Tours Australia, has earned a striking 5-star rating based on hundreds of reviews, and it’s easy to see why. With a mix of wine tastings, a chocolate and ice cream stop, and a farm-fresh fruit tasting, it’s designed for those wanting an authentic taste of the region without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we love about this experience is its balance: the variety of activities ensures there’s something for all, whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a foodie, or simply after a scenic escape from Melbourne. The guides, especially Bernie and Rick, are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendly approach. The inclusion of a bottle of wine to take home adds a lovely personal touch. The only potential drawback? It’s a full, busy day, so pacing might feel tight for some travelers craving a more relaxed experience.

This tour is perfect if you’re after a guided, convenient way to explore the Yarra Valley’s diverse offerings without the worry of logistics. It suits those interested in tasting multiple wines, enjoying gourmet lunches, and indulging in sweet treats—all while soaking up spectacular scenery. If you enjoy lively guides and a well-organized schedule, this experience is likely to be a highlight of your Melbourne trip.

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Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering vineyards, a fruit farm, chocolate, and ice cream.
Excellent value for the price, with all wine tastings and bottled water included.
Knowledgeable guides who add personality and historical insights.
Comfortable transportation in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle.
Flexible options for lunch, with upgrades available.
Authentic regional experiences that highlight local produce and wines.

The journey begins bright and early at Federation Square, a convenient starting point in the heart of Melbourne. The tour departs at 8:15 am, giving you a full day’s worth of activities in the scenic Yarra Valley. Expect a friendly greeting from the driver-guide, who will set the tone with a quick overview of the day ahead and a little Melbourne history on the way out of the city.

Scenic Drive & Informative Commentary

The drive itself is part of the fun. As you travel through Melbourne’s suburbs, you’ll pass historic buildings and lush landscapes. One review specifically appreciated Rick’s storytelling, noting that he provided a bit of Melbourne history which added depth to the journey. The views of the Yarra River and the surrounding ranges are stunning, especially if you love a good photo opportunity.

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Fruit Tasting at Yarra Farm Fresh

Your first stop is a quick, guided fruit tasting at Yarra Farm Fresh. Here, you’ll sample local fruits—most notably strawberries—fresh from the fields. It’s a light, refreshing start that awakens the senses and offers a taste of the region’s produce. Guests who have been here mention the quality and freshness of the fruit, making it a worthwhile introduction.

Vineyard Visits & Wine Tasting

The highlight for many is the visit to Hubert Estate, a well-regarded Yarra Valley winery. Here, you’re invited to taste four different wines, each representing the unique style of the estate. Reviewers emphasize the quality of the wines and the helpfulness of staff. As one reviewer put it, “You get to taste four distinct Yarra Valley wines and take home a bottle—a nice keepsake.”

Following Hubert Estate, you’ll head to Rochford Wines, an award-winning winery famous not just for its wines but also for hosting big musical acts. The guided tasting here is more than just a sip; it’s an educational experience with generous pours. Guests mention the lunch at Rochford as a real highlight, with options for upgrading to a gourmet meal with a glass of wine—definitely worth considering if you want a more indulgent experience.

Chocolate & Ice Cream Indulgence

A trip to the Yarra Valley isn’t complete without stopping at the Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery. Here, you’ll see master chocolatiers at work, creating award-winning chocolates that you can sample—about 12 different varieties, to be precise. Guests frequently mention the quality and richness of these chocolates, with many noting that the tasting felt more like a treat than a stop. The guided experience provides insight into Australian chocolate craftsmanship, elevating the sweetness of the moment.

Optional Gin Tasting & Additional Purchases

While the core tour includes all wine tastings and bottled water, the gin tasting is an additional option, costing around $25 for four gins at Rochford. Reviewers suggest that gin lovers will find this a fun addition, though it’s worth noting that it’s not included in the base price. Purchases from wineries or the chocolate shop are at your own expense, and the tour’s value lies primarily in the included tastings and experiences.

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The Return Journey

The tour wraps up around 4:30 pm, with a relaxed return to Federation Square. Guests consistently mention the professionalism and friendliness of Rick and Bernie, who keep the energy lively and informative without feeling rushed. The modern vehicle with air-conditioning ensures comfort throughout the day, even during the warmer months.

For $98.31, this tour offers a lot—multiple tastings, a guided experience, transportation, and a variety of activities packed into a manageable 8-hour day. The inclusion of a bottle of wine to take home and bottled water adds a thoughtful touch. Many reviews stress that the experience exceeds expectations, especially considering the well-organized itinerary and the quality of the stops.

Some noted that the tour is fast-paced, especially at larger wineries, which might feel rushed to those wanting a more relaxed tasting experience. However, the guides, particularly Bernie and Rick, are praised for their engaging personalities and wealth of knowledge, which make up for any hurried moments.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a full, varied day exploring the Yarra Valley without the hassle of organizing it themselves. It’s perfect for wine lovers, foodies, or anyone after a taste of regional Australia’s produce. The guided nature suits those who enjoy learning as they go and prefer a structured plan with plenty of options.

It’s also a fantastic choice for first-time visitors to Melbourne wanting a comprehensive taste of the nearby wine country. The mix of scenic views, delicious food, and friendly guides makes it suitable for couples, groups, or even solo travelers looking for a social, immersive day.

This tour offers exceptional value for money, combining multiple tastings, a gourmet lunch option, and sweet treats—all within a scenic, well-paced day. The guides’ friendly and knowledgeable approach adds a personal touch that many reviews highlight as a key factor in their positive experience. With the flexibility to upgrade your lunch or indulge in gin tastings, it’s a great way to explore the Yarra Valley authentically and comfortably.

If you’re after a fun, educational, and delicious day trip from Melbourne, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who love good wine, fresh food, beautiful scenery, and a genuinely friendly guide leading the way. Just remember to pace yourself—you’ll want to savor every moment and every sip.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s designed for travelers over 18 because of the wine and alcohol tastings, but most of the activities are suitable for a wide age range.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
The tour doesn’t specify special dietary options, so it’s best to contact Rick’s Tours directly if you have specific needs.

Is gin tasting included in the price?
No, gin tasting is an optional add-on costing around $25 for four gins at Rochford.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:15 am and returning around 4:30 pm.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the group travels in a modern vehicle with air-conditioning, ensuring comfort during the drive.

Can I buy extra wine or souvenirs during the tour?
Absolutely. Additional purchases are at your own expense, and many guests find it hard to resist buying from the wineries or the chocolate shop.

Is there any flexibility with the itinerary?
The schedule is set, but guides are generally friendly and accommodating to the group. Upgrades, like a gourmet lunch, are available on the day.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Less than 24 hours’ notice means no refund.

If you’re after a well-organized, enjoyable, and value-packed day exploring the Yarra Valley, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suitable for those who want to combine wine, food, and scenic beauty with the ease of a guided experience. The combination of knowledgeable guides, generous tastings, and a variety of activities makes it a smart choice for a memorable Melbourne getaway.