Yarra Valley Premium Tour inc Lunch and Cheese and Wine Pairing at De Bortoli

Exploring the Yarra Valley Premium Tour with Lunch and Cheese & Wine Pairing

If you’re planning a trip to Melbourne and want to explore one of Australia’s most renowned wine regions, this Yarra Valley Premium Tour offered by Epicurean Tours might just be your perfect day out. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the consistently glowing reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it’s a well-balanced mix of taste, scenery, and expert guidance.

What we love about this experience is how it combines delicious food and wine, the personalized touch of a friendly guide, and the chance to see the scenic highlights of the region. The inclusion of a gourmet lunch at a local winery and a cheese and wine pairing at De Bortoli adds a layer of richness that makes the day feel truly special.

One thing to keep in mind is the group size, which is limited to a maximum of six travelers—ideal for those who prefer an intimate, relaxed atmosphere. The tour’s price points to good value when considering the high-quality tastings and the thoughtful itinerary.

This experience suits wine enthusiasts, food lovers, or anyone seeking a day of discovery outside Melbourne in a scenic setting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy some of Australia’s finest wines, this tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the Yarra Valley.

Key Points

• Personalized Guided Experience: Led by a knowledgeable, friendly guide, ensuring insights into the region’s wines and scenery.
• Premium Tastings and Food: Includes two premium wine tastings, a gourmet lunch at a local winery, and a cheese and wine pairing at De Bortoli.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to six travelers, creating an intimate, relaxed environment.
• Convenient Pickup: Hotel pickup is available, making logistics easy on the day.
• Excellent Reviews: High ratings reflect consistent satisfaction, especially with the guide’s friendliness and the quality of wines and food.
• Great Value: For $171.93 per person, the combination of tastings, lunch, and personalized service provides good value.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Journey Begins with Ease and Comfort

From the moment your pickup is arranged, you are set for a relaxed day. The tour operates with a small group of up to six guests, ensuring that conversations are personal, and the experience feels more like a day out with friends than a crowded bus trip. The transportation is typically comfortable and timely, with pickup offered from your Melbourne accommodation, which saves you from navigating public transport or parking hassles.

De Bortoli Winery: Cheese and Wine Pairing

The first major stop is the iconic De Bortoli Winery. Here, the highlight is the cheese and wine pairing session, which lasts about an hour. The review from a previous guest fondly remembers this experience, stating, “Really enjoyed the wine and cheese pairing at De Bortoli.” The pairing offers a delightful contrast, allowing you to appreciate how certain wines complement different cheeses—a true treat for foodies and wine lovers alike.

Guests can expect an admission ticket included in the tour, meaning no extra costs or fuss. The guide usually shares interesting tidbits about the winery’s history and its approach to winemaking, adding depth to the tasting experience.

Exploring the Yarra Valley

After the initial tasting, you’ll have the chance to see the sights of the Yarra Valley itself. The region is just over an hour from Melbourne, but the scenic views make the journey feel shorter. Expect rolling vineyards, lush greenery, and perhaps a few spots perfect for photos. The guide, often someone like Bill, who many reviews mention as “informative and friendly,” will fill you in on regional highlights and insider tips to enhance your visit.

Gourmet Lunch at a Local Winery

The next highlight is a sit-down lunch at a local winery restaurant. Guests rave about the quality of the meal—many describe it as “excellent” and recommend it as a memorable part of the tour. The focus is on showcasing regional produce and wines, making it a true taste of the Yarra Valley. This is not just a quick bite but a carefully curated meal that complements the wine theme of the day.

Premium Wine Tastings at Two Wineries

Along With De Bortoli, you’ll visit a second winery for a second premium tasting. The choice of wineries often varies, but each offers a different style and selection of wines, which adds diversity to your experience. It’s an opportunity to compare varieties, learn about regional differences, and perhaps find a new favorite.

Authentic, Guided Insights

Throughout the day, your guide plays a pivotal role. Reviewers repeatedly mention how guides like Bill provide insightful commentary about the wines, wineries, and the region’s history. This informative approach ensures that this isn’t just a tasting but also an educational journey.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Duration: About 7 hours, which is ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
• Price: At $171.93 per person, the tour offers good value when you consider the tastings, lunch, and personalized experience.
• Availability: Most travelers book this experience at least 225 days in advance, indicating its popularity.
• Cancellation: Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this tour a good pick is the combination of quality, personalized service, and authentic regional experiences. The small group size makes conversations easier and more personal, and the guide’s friendly demeanor seems to elevate the experience further.

The inclusion of a cheese and wine pairing at De Bortoli is a standout feature, especially appreciated by foodies, and the chance to enjoy a gourmet lunch enhances the value. Guests also love the diversity of wineries visited, all with distinctive wines, ensuring you get a well-rounded tasting.

One reviewer shared, “Bill was informative and friendly,” reinforcing how a knowledgeable guide can truly make a difference. The overall high rating of 5.0 from two reviews indicates that most travelers find this tour to be a memorable, enjoyable experience that delivers on its promises.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the minimum of four guests required for the tour to run. If booking last minute or traveling solo, it’s worth confirming availability in advance. Also, as with any wine tour, it’s not ideal for those with dietary restrictions or those who may not prefer alcohol, though the focus on wine and food pairing makes it more appealing to those who do.

Is This Tour for You?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to explore the Yarra Valley’s top wineries in a relaxed and intimate setting. It’s equally appealing for food lovers who appreciate cheese pairings and gourmet meals. If you’re after a guided, educational experience with a friendly atmosphere, this tour ticks all those boxes.

It’s less suitable if you’re looking for a fast-paced, large-group experience or if you prefer self-guided exploration. Still, for travelers wanting a balanced day of tasting, sightseeing, and good company, this tour provides a well-rounded opportunity.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your Melbourne accommodation, making it convenient and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for approximately 7 hours, giving you plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
You get two premium wine tastings, a cheese and wine pairing at De Bortoli, a gourmet lunch, and guided sightseeing.

How many people will be on the tour?
The group is limited to a maximum of six travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility in your planning.

Is this tour suitable for those who don’t drink alcohol?
While primarily focused on wine, the experience is ideal for wine lovers. Non-drinkers might find limited options, but you could enjoy the scenic views and gourmet lunch.

Final Thoughts

The Yarra Valley Premium Tour by Epicurean Tours offers a delightful blend of premium tastings, scenic beauty, and expert guidance. The inclusion of a cheese and wine pairing at De Bortoli, combined with a gourmet lunch, ensures that your day is both indulgent and educational. The small-group setting fosters a relaxed environment perfect for conversations and personalized insights.

If you’re a wine lover looking for an authentic experience that balances quality, comfort, and authenticity, this tour is a prime choice. The consistent positive reviews and high rating suggest it’s been well-loved by those who’ve participated, making it a reliable pick for your time in Melbourne.

This tour suits travelers who value small groups, guided insight, and regional food and wine—a memorable way to taste the best of Yarra Valley without the hassle of planning your own day. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your curiosity, it offers a well-rounded, enjoyable escape from city life.