The Yarra Valley, nestled just outside of Melbourne, has long been renowned for its exceptional cool-climate wines and scenic beauty. Offering a comprehensive exploration of this renowned region, the Yarra Valley Winery Tour promises an immersive experience for oenophiles and nature enthusiasts alike. From historic estates to family-owned vineyards, this small-group tour delves into the diverse terroir and winemaking heritage that define the Yarra’s singular character. The highlight, however, lies in the decadent a la carte lunch at the acclaimed Yering Station restaurant, where guests can savor locally-sourced seasonal fare while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding vineyards. What awaits those who embark on this exceptional journey is a deeper appreciation for the Yarra Valley’s unique blend of tradition and innovation.
This experience made our list of the 4 Best Tours In Yarra Valley.
Key Points
- Full-day Yarra Valley winery tour with visits to 5 diverse vineyards, including the historic Yering Station.
- Delectable a la carte lunch at the renowned Yering Station restaurant, with a complimentary glass of wine and coffee.
- Immersive wine and cheese pairing experience at the family-owned De Bortoli Vineyard.
- Exploration of small boutique wineries like Payten & Jones, showcasing the Yarra Valley’s diverse microclimates.
- Sampling of award-winning cool-climate wines at established producers like Coldstream Hills and Medhurst Vineyard.
Tour Overview
The Yarra Valley tour offers a full-day excursion through the picturesque wine region, featuring visits to five contrasting vineyards and a delectable lunch at the historic Yering Station.
Over the course of 10 hours, you’ll travel in a small group for a personalized experience, starting with a wine and cheese pairing at De Bortoli Vineyard.
Next, you’ll visit Yering Station, the site of Victoria’s first vineyard, as well as Payten & Jones, a small producer, Coldstream Hills Winery, and the family-owned Medhurst Vineyard.
The tour includes a main course lunch at Yering Station’s restaurant, along with a glass of wine and coffee. Hotel pickups, wine tastings, and other inclusions ensure a seamless and enjoyable day in the Yarra Valley.
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Winery Visits
The tour begins at De Bortoli Vineyard, where visitors embark on a wine and cheese pairing experience to kickstart the day’s adventures.
Next, the group heads to Yering Station, the site of the first vineyard in Victoria, established in 1838. Here, they’ll have the opportunity to taste the wines produced at this historic estate.
The tour then moves on to Payten & Jones, a small, boutique winery known for its unique offerings.
The penultimate stop is Coldstream Hills Winery, founded by renowned wine critic James Halliday.
De Bortoli Vineyard
De Bortoli Vineyard kicks off the day’s winery visits with a tantalizing wine and cheese pairing experience, inviting guests to savor the complementary flavors that define this renowned Yarra Valley estate.
Situated in the heart of the region, the family-owned De Bortoli Vineyard has been crafting exceptional wines for over 90 years.
Visitors are welcomed to the cellar door, where they’ll embark on a guided tasting of the winery’s flagship varietals, expertly paired with a selection of local artisanal cheeses.
This sensory journey provides an immersive introduction to the Yarra Valley’s terroir, showcasing the region’s diverse microclimates and the winemaker’s commitment to quality and innovation.
Yering Station
Next on the itinerary is Yering Station, which claims the distinction of being the site of Victoria’s first vineyard, established way back in 1838.
Visitors can explore the historic grounds and sample the estate’s renowned wines, crafted using traditional methods and the region’s premier terroir.
The tour includes:
- A visit to the original vineyard, where guests can learn about the site’s rich history
- A tasting of Yering Station’s award-winning wines, showcasing the diversity of the Yarra Valley
- An a la carte lunch at the on-site restaurant, featuring locally-sourced seasonal ingredients
- The opportunity to purchase bottles to take home and enjoy
This stop offers a unique glimpse into the origins of Victoria’s thriving wine industry.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyPayten & Jones
Why, next, does the tour visit Payten & Jones, a small, family-owned winery producing exceptional wines from the Yarra Valley’s premier vineyards?
This stop offers visitors a chance to sample the unique, terroir-driven offerings of this boutique producer, whose focus on minimal intervention and sustainable practices results in complex, distinctive vintages.
Payten & Jones specializes in single-vineyard pinot noir, chardonnay, and syrah, showcasing the region’s exceptional fruit quality and the winemakers’ commitment to traditional techniques.
Guests can expect to taste through the winery’s current releases, discussing the nuances of each wine’s flavor profile and how it reflects the Yarra Valley’s diverse microclimates.
This intimate experience provides a deeper appreciation for the art of small-lot winemaking.
Coldstream Hills Winery
After exploring the boutique offerings of Payten & Jones, the tour moves on to Coldstream Hills Winery, a renowned producer established by respected wine writer and critic James Halliday.
Coldstream Hills is renowned for its exceptional cool-climate wines that showcase the diversity of the Yarra Valley terroir. The winery tour provides an up-close look at their state-of-the-art facilities and vineyards.
Guests can expect to:
- Sample a range of Coldstream Hills’ award-winning Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon varietals
- Learn about the winery’s sustainable practices and commitment to preserving the region’s natural environment
- Discover the influence of the Yarra Valley’s unique microclimate on the development of the grapes
- Gain insights into the winemaking process from the knowledgeable tasting room staff
Medhurst Vineyard
The final stop on the Yarra Valley winery tour is Medhurst Vineyard, a family-owned 35-acre estate known for its premium cool-climate wines.
Visitors can expect to sample the winery’s acclaimed Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon varietals, all of which showcase the unique terroir of this picturesque corner of the Yarra Valley.
The Medhurst team takes great pride in their sustainable viticultural practices and handcrafted approach to winemaking.
Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the winery’s history and tour the meticulously maintained grounds before settling in to enjoy a selection of the estate’s finest offerings.
This final stop provides a fitting conclusion to a day of exploring the world-class wineries of the Yarra Valley.
Lunch at Yering Station
As the grand finale of the Yarra Valley winery tour, guests enjoy a delectable a la carte main course lunch at the renowned Yering Station restaurant, accompanied by a complimentary glass of wine and a refreshing cup of coffee.
The restaurant’s focus on using locally-sourced seasonal ingredients and its stunning vineyard views make for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
The menu offers a variety of mouthwatering options, including:
- Grilled Barramundi with steamed greens and hollandaise sauce
- Roasted Pork Belly with apple slaw and roasted potatoes
- Pan-seared Beef Fillet with mushroom ragout and red wine jus
- Vegetarian Risotto with roasted vegetables and parmesan
This indulgent lunch is the perfect way to cap off a day of wine tasting and exploration in the Yarra Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The dress code for the winery tour is casual and comfortable. Participants are advised to wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves visits to multiple vineyards and walking around the grounds.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?
Yes, dietary restrictions are accommodated on this tour. Guests can request vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meal options when booking, and the tour operator will make the necessary arrangements with the restaurant at Yering Station.
What Should I Bring for the Tour?
For this winery tour, guests should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the scenic vineyards. Bringing a small backpack or purse is recommended to hold any purchases or personal items during the day.
How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?
The tour generally involves moderate walking between vineyard facilities and tasting rooms. Guests can expect to walk up to 15-20 minutes at a time, with opportunities to rest during wine tastings and lunch. The pace is relaxed and suitable for most fitness levels.
Can I Purchase Wine to Take Home?
Yes, visitors can purchase wine to take home on the tour. The tour includes stops at several wineries, providing opportunities to sample and purchase wines from the region. Guests are encouraged to bring home their favorite bottles as souvenirs.
Recap
The Yarra Valley winery tour offers an immersive exploration of the region’s renowned terroir and winemaking heritage.
Visitors will discover a diverse range of exceptional cool-climate wines, while also experiencing the sustainable practices that define this acclaimed wine-growing area.
The highlight is the delectable a la carte lunch at the historic Yering Station, showcasing the region’s finest seasonal produce and breathtaking vineyard views.
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