Yarra Valley: Wine and Chocolate tasting tour.

Yarra Valley: Wine and Chocolate Tasting Tour

Setting out on a wine journey through the Yarra Valley offers a perfect blend of stunning scenery, exceptional wines, and sweet treats. This 7.5-hour tour, run by Melbourne Valley Wine Tours, promises a relaxed day exploring some of Victoria’s best vineyards paired with a visit to the renowned Yarra Valley Chocolate Factory. While we haven’t personally joined, the detailed reviews and itinerary suggest this experience strikes a great balance between quality, comfort, and authenticity.

What we appreciate most about this tour is the focus on smaller, carefully selected wineries, the inclusion of a visit to a chocolate factory, and the knowledge of the guide, Adrian, who is praised for his friendliness and expertise. The opportunity to taste over 10 wines—including Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, and Chardonnay—means you’ll get a real sense of the region’s diversity. A minor consideration is that the tour doesn’t include a pre-arranged lunch, giving you the chance to pick a meal that suits your taste and budget at St’Hubert’s Estate. It’s ideal for those who want to combine wine, chocolate, and scenic views in a well-organized, enjoyable day.

This tour suits travelers who value authentic experiences, appreciate good company, and enjoy learning about local wines and culture. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, you’ll find it easy to relax and soak in the scenery with knowledgeable guides and a thoughtfully curated itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Small, curated wineries provide a personal tasting experience.
• Visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolate Factory adds a delightful sweet twist.
• Expert guide Adrian is praised for friendliness, knowledge, and making everyone feel comfortable.
• Flexible lunch options at St’Hubert’s Estate allow for personal choice and dietary preferences.
• Stunning vineyard scenery dating back to the 1800s offers fantastic photo opportunities.
• Comfortable transport in Mercedes-Benz and Toyota buses ensures a smooth ride.
• Well-paced itinerary balances tasting, sightseeing, and free time effectively.

A Detailed Look at the Yarra Valley Wine and Chocolate Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, a central Melbourne location easy to find on Flinders Street. From there, you’re whisked away in a sleek Mercedes-Benz Valente 8-seater or a larger Toyota 22-seater bus, designed to keep groups comfortable and relaxed. The one-hour drive to the Yarra Valley is scenic, giving you a taste of the rolling vineyards even before your first tasting.

First Stop: Soumah of Yarra Valley

Arriving at Soumah, a well-regarded winery, you’ll dive into tastings of six different wines. The reviews highlight Soumah as a lovely small vineyard with a welcoming atmosphere. Guests have noted that the guide’s insights make the experience particularly enjoyable, with one mentioning the visit as a chance to see “nice smaller vineyards” and appreciate the region’s boutique wineries. The tasting here sets a high standard for the day, showcasing the region’s variety.

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Lunch at St’Hubert’s Estate

After a morning of tasting, you’ll head to St’Hubert’s Estate for a generous 1.5-hour break. The tour allows you the freedom to purchase your own lunch — typically costing around $20-$30 — with an emphasis on quality. Many guests rave about the wood-fired pizza, considered among the best in Melbourne, which makes for a relaxed and satisfying meal amid vineyard views. The estate also offers a guided underground tour and an Aboriginal Art Gallery visit, adding cultural depth to the experience.

Afternoon Chocolate and Vineyard Stops

Post-lunch, the tour proceeds to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, a favorite for many travelers. The visit is brief but sweet — with a 5-minute food tasting session and a 25-minute shopping window to pick up chocolates. Reviewers love the chance to see chocolates being made and enjoy a little sweet break after the wine tastings.

Next, the tour visits Greenstone Vineyard for a 45-minute wine tasting. The vineyard is praised for its picturesque setting and quality wines, making it a fitting final tasting stop. Guests consistently mention the friendly and knowledgeable guides who help explain the wine profiles, enhancing the tasting experience.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

After a full day—visiting four wineries and a chocolate factory—you’re transported back to Melbourne, arriving around 4 or 4:30 pm. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on the day, with many travelers commenting on how well the schedule balanced sightseeing, tasting, and leisure.

Transport, Timing, and Group Size

The tour runs from 9:30 am to about 4:30 pm, making it a comfortable full-day experience without feeling rushed. With small groups in the Mercedes or larger buses, the setting fosters intimacy or lively camaraderie, depending on your preference. The flexible cancellation policy and the option to reserve with pay-later terms add to the tour’s appeal for flexible travelers.

What’s Included and What’s Not

All wine tastings are included, with over 10 wines sampled, which offers great value considering the quality and variety. You can purchase lunch and additional chocolates at the factory, but no pre-arranged meals are included in the price — perfect if you like to customize your dining experience. The tour is suitable only for guests over 18, given the wine focus.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a jacket — the weather can vary, and sun protection enhances your comfort. The tour takes place rain or shine, so be prepared for different conditions. Remember, large luggage, smoking, and mobility devices like scooters and electric wheelchairs are not permitted onboard, keeping the group safe and relaxed.

Authentic Experiences That Shine

What sets this tour apart is the genuine enthusiasm of the guide, Adrian, who is acknowledged for his friendliness and extensive knowledge. As one reviewer puts it, “Adrian was very friendly and informative,” which makes all the difference when navigating multiple wineries and tasting rooms. The small vineyard visits mean you get a more personal experience than on larger, more commercial tours.

Guests also appreciate the scenic views, with many noting the vineyards’ historic charm, some dating back to the 1800s. The inclusion of the Aboriginal Art Gallery adds a cultural aspect that enriches the overall experience, offering insight beyond just wine and chocolates.

The Value of This Tour

At its core, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances premium tastings with cultural insights and scenic beauty. The cost — considering the numerous tastings, transport, and cultural stops — represents good value for those who enjoy quality over quantity. The ability to customize lunch and the small group vibe make it a flexible choice that caters to various preferences.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers eager to explore Yarra Valley’s boutique vineyards, those with a sweet tooth, or travelers who appreciate cultural nuances like Aboriginal art. It’s perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or small groups wanting a relaxed, informative day out with minimal hassle. The knowledgeable guide and well-curated stops make it suitable for first-timers and seasoned wine enthusiasts alike.

The Sum Up

The Yarra Valley: Wine and Chocolate Tasting Tour offers a fantastic way to explore this renowned wine region without the hassle of planning. The combination of personal vineyard visits, a cultural side trip, and the highlight chocolate factory ensures a variety of memorable moments.

Travelers who value quality, authenticity, and a touch of indulgence will find this tour especially rewarding. The friendly guidance and carefully selected stops mean you’ll leave with not just bottles of wine and chocolates, but also stories and impressions of one of Victoria’s most beautiful areas.

This tour truly balances leisure and discovery, making it a standout choice for those wanting a comprehensive, enjoyable, and value-packed day in the Yarra Valley.

FAQ

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, you will have the option to buy your own lunch at St’Hubert’s Estate, with meals typically costing $20-$30. The tour provides the freedom to choose what you prefer.

How many wineries are visited during the tour?
You’ll visit three wineries, each offering a tasting of multiple wines, plus a visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolate Factory and Greenstone Vineyard.

What wines will I taste?
Expect over 10 wines, including Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, and Chardonnay, among others.

Is this tour suitable for children or under 18s?
No, this tour is only for guests over 18 due to the wine tastings.

What is the transportation like?
Travel is in a Mercedes-Benz Valente 8-seater or a 22-seater bus, both providing comfortable, air-conditioned space for a relaxed journey.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a jacket are recommended. Large luggage, smoking, and mobility devices like scooters are not allowed onboard.

In summary, this Yarra Valley wine and chocolate tour presents a well-balanced, authentic experience that combines scenic beauty, top-quality tastings, and cultural insights — perfect for anyone wanting to indulge and learn in one of Victoria’s most celebrated wine regions.

You can check availability for your dates here: