Yarra Valley: Winery Tour with Lunch at Yering Station

If you’re considering a full-day experience that combines stellar wines, beautiful scenery, and a gourmet lunch, then the Yarra Valley Winery Tour with Lunch at Yering Station might just be what you’re after. This tour is a popular choice for those looking for a well-organized, intimate outing that gives a real taste of Victoria’s most renowned wine region.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s done in a small-group setting, which means more personalized attention and a chance to really get to know your guide—and fellow travelers—without feeling like just another number. Second, the variety of wineries visited ensures you’ll sample different styles and personalities of wine, from established estates to boutique producers.

However, the full day’s length—about 10 hours—means it’s a commitment. If you prefer a quick taste or have limited mobility, this might be a bit of a stretch. Still, for lovers of wine, scenery, and good food, this experience is ideally suited for those wanting an authentic, relaxed, and informative day outside Melbourne.

Key Points

• Small-group tours provide a more intimate experience.
• Visiting diverse vineyards showcases the range of Yarra Valley wines.
• Gourmet lunch at Yering Station offers stunning views and high-quality cuisine.
• The tour covers four to five wineries, including both historic and boutique producers.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary.
• The 10-hour day offers value for those wanting a comprehensive wine tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Yarra Valley Winery Tour

The Perfect Start: Personal Pickup and Scenic Drive

The tour begins with pickup from four convenient locations—Fitzroy, Melbourne City, East Melbourne, or Southbank—making it easy to join the day without a long commute. From there, your journey heads northeast through suburban Melbourne’s leafy neighborhoods like Templestowe, Eltham, and Kangaroo Ground, setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead. The bus or coach is typically a comfortable vehicle, and reviews consistently praise the smooth, hassle-free transportation.

Traveling through the outskirts of Melbourne, you’ll enjoy commentary from your guide—who often impresses with their local knowledge—and start to feel the anticipation building as the rolling hills and vine-covered landscapes come into view.

De Bortoli Vineyard: A Classic Start

Your first stop is the De Bortoli Vineyard at Dixons Creek, known for crisp, refreshing wines and a pairing of select cheeses and wines. Many guests comment on how this elegant introduction helps set the tone for the day, combining tasting with a bit of local flavor. The setting is picturesque, with views over the vineyard, and it’s a fine way to warm up your palate.

Yering Station: Historic Charm and a Gourmet Lunch

Next, the tour takes you to Yering Station, which holds the distinction of being the first vineyard in the Yarra Valley, established in 1838. The original winery, built around 1859, is an impressive sight, blending history with modern comfort. You’ll walk through the winery and enjoy tastings of their estate wines, often accompanied by local artworks and produce, adding a cultural dimension.

The highlight here is the lunch at their renowned restaurant, which offers a delicious a la carte menu. Guests rave about the world-class views and the quality of the food—think thoughtfully prepared dishes paired with Yering Station wines. Many reviews mention the outstanding lunch, with several noting that the main courses and the wine pairings exceeded expectations for the price.

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Small-Batch Wines at Payten & Jones

After lunch, the itinerary shifts gears with a visit to Payten & Jones, a smaller producer known for its approachable, characterful wines. Behn Payten and Troy Jones craft small-batch wines including chardonnay, pinot noir, syrah, and other Mediterranean varietals. Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to taste wines with distinct personality, often described as approachable but complex.

The Family-Owned Charm of Medhurst Vineyard

In the afternoon, the tour visits Medhurst Vineyard, a family-run estate established in 1999. Located in the Warramate Ranges, it’s praised for its elegant table wines and scenic hillside setting. The family’s attention to quality shows in the wines, which many guests find refined and well-balanced.

On days when Medhurst isn’t available, the itinerary offers alternatives like Punt Road, Dominique Portet, Giant Steps, or Oakridge. These options ensure that visitors still experience the diversity and quality the region offers, although the specific winery may vary.

The Final Stops and Return

The last part of the day often includes a visit to Giant Steps or Oakridge, both highly regarded for their innovative styles and beautiful vineyards. The tour wraps up with a scenic drive back to Melbourne, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights.

What You Can Expect: A Typical Day

The 10-hour tour is well-paced, with about 45 minutes to an hour at each vineyard, plus a generous 1.5-hour lunch break. The schedule is designed to give enough time for tasting, enjoying the scenery, and engaging with guides and hosts.

Guests consistently note the small group size—often just a handful of participants—which fosters more interaction and personalized attention. The guide’s knowledgeable commentary is a standout feature, providing context about the wines, the region’s history, and local culture.

The Quality of the Wines and Food

Most travelers praise the variety and quality of wines they get to sample. Whether it’s the estate wines at Yering Station, the approachable boutique wines at Payten & Jones, or the family-owned elegance of Medhurst, each visit offers a different perspective on Yarra Valley’s winemaking.

The lunch at Yering Station is frequently highlighted as a real highlight—not just for the food but for the spectacular views. Many reviews mention the gourmet meal paired with a glass of wine, making it a truly memorable part of the day.

The Scenic Beauty

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy stunning views of rolling vineyards, lush hills, and the Warramate Ranges. The scenery isn’t just a backdrop but a vital part of the experience, providing a serene setting that complements the wine tasting.

The Value and Price

While this tour is a bit pricier than some others, the value is clear. It includes transportation, expert guides, visits to four to five wineries, a gourmet lunch, and tastings. Many reviews emphasize the quality of the experience, noting that it feels like a luxury without the exorbitant cost.

Guests have commented on the well-organized nature of the trip, with clear communication and a smooth schedule, which adds to the perceived value. The small-group format means you get more personalized service, often commented on as “a real bonus” by travelers.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts who appreciate quality and variety, as well as travelers who want a comprehensive look at the Yarra Valley. The gourmet lunch and scenic vistas make it suitable for those looking to combine outdoor beauty with culinary delights.

It’s also ideal for small groups or couples who prefer an intimate, relaxed atmosphere over large bus tours. Note that wheelchair users are not accommodated, so it’s best suited for those with easy mobility.

The Sum Up

This Yarra Valley winery tour offers a well-rounded, high-quality experience that balances wine tasting, scenic beauty, and gourmet dining. The small-group setting ensures a relaxed, engaging atmosphere, and the variety of wineries visited—from historic estates to boutique producers—provides a great overview of the region’s diversity.

The expert guides and beautiful lunch at Yering Station are highlights that many travelers remember fondly. It’s a value-for-money option for those who want to deepen their appreciation of Victorian wines while enjoying a leisurely day out of Melbourne.

In short, if you’re seeking a personalized, authentic, and enjoyable wine tour with impressive scenery and top-notch wines, this tour is a strong contender. Just be prepared for a long day, and you’ll leave with plenty of stories—and perhaps a few bottles—of your trip.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including tastings, lunch, and travel time.

What wineries are visited?
Stops include De Bortoli Vineyard, Yering Station, Payten & Jones, and Medhurst Vineyard. Depending on the day, other boutique wineries may be included.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a gourmet a la carte main course lunch at Yering Station, with a glass of wine included.

What should I wear?
Dress smart casual—avoid singlets or flip-flops. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the wineries.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
The tour offers a main course selection; specific dietary needs should be communicated at booking.

Can I join the tour if I am not a wine drinker?
The focus is on wine tasting, but the scenery and food are enjoyable for non-drinkers as well.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the minimum drinking age is 18 years, and the tour is designed for adult wine enthusiasts.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve now and pay later, with full payment required 24 hours before the tour.

In essence, this tour is a beautifully crafted day out that combines Victoria’s best wines with stunning landscapes and a memorable meal. It’s perfect for those wanting a deeper dive into the Yarra Valley’s offerings without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby