Yarra Valley: Wine Tasting Day Trip with Lunch & Pickup

Summary

Wine, laughter, and rolling hills in the Yarra Valley

You’ll taste your way through five unique Yarra Valley wineries with a local guide, sample chardonnay and pinot noir straight from the source, enjoy a relaxed lunch overlooking vineyards, and share stories with passionate winemakers. Expect real warmth, unexpected flavors, and maybe even a wandering winery dog or two.

What’s the experience like?

"Try this one—it's the Noble One," our guide said, holding out a glass at De Bortoli. I remember the way the morning light came through the windows, catching little flecks of dust in the air. The cheese was sharp and creamy at once—honestly, I could've just stayed right there nibbling and sipping all day. But we had more to see. The drive from Melbourne was only about an hour but felt longer in a good way; eucalyptus trees whipping past, that dry grassy smell you get outside the city. It’s funny how quickly you can go from tram noise to birdsong.

Lunch was in this airy restaurant with big windows looking out over rows and rows of vines. I ordered something with mushrooms (can’t remember what exactly—was too distracted by the view) and a glass of pinot noir that tasted like cherries and earth. Our host—a winemaker named Sarah—talked about Mediterranean varietals making their way into the valley now. She had this easy laugh and didn’t mind my million questions about fermentation. At one point she let us smell a handful of soil from outside (“That’s where it all starts,” she said). I still think about that moment when I open a bottle at home.

The last stop was smaller—a boutique place where we tried table wines while standing around a barrel. Someone’s dog wandered through (I think his name was Max?) and everyone just sort of relaxed into the late afternoon light. The whole thing never felt rushed or showy; just honest people pouring what they love to make. So yeah, if you’re looking for a Yarra Valley wine day tour that actually feels personal—and includes pickup so you don’t have to stress—it’s hard to beat this kind of day.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Yarra Valley wine tasting and lunch

• Travel scenic route from Melbourne
• Visit De Bortoli Vineyard for tasting
• Pair wines with selected cheeses
• Taste estate and reserve wines
• Enjoy a la carte lunch with wine
• Wine tasting with winemaking team
• Taste boutique producer's table wines

Top questions

How far is Yarra Valley from Melbourne?

The Yarra Valley is about an hour's drive from Melbourne.

How many wineries do you visit on this tour?

This day trip includes tastings at five different cellar doors in the Yarra Valley.

Is lunch included on the Yarra Valley wine tour?

Yes, an à la carte main course meal with wine and coffee is included at one of the wineries.

Are hotel pickups available for this tour?

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for selected hotels in Melbourne.

What types of wines will I taste on this tour?

You’ll try estate and premium wines including chardonnay, pinot noir, sparkling wines, dessert wine Noble One, plus some Mediterranean varietals.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

The tour is suitable for all ages but only adults 18+ can participate in wine tasting; infant seats are available if needed.

Does this Yarra Valley wine day tour run in bad weather?

Yes—the tour operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately for rain or shine.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off (from selected Melbourne hotels), all wine tastings at five cellar doors across the Yarra Valley, bottled water throughout the trip, a main course lunch with local wine and coffee, plus guidance from passionate locals who know their vines inside out before heading back to Melbourne in comfort.