Yarra Valley Wines, Four Pillars Gin, Cheese/Fruit & Choc Tour

If you’re craving a full day of sampling some of Victoria’s finest produce, this Yarra Valley tour offers a delightful mix of wineries, distilleries, cheese farms, and chocolatiers—all within a scenic landscape just outside Melbourne. For $88.14 per person, you get about 8.5 hours of fun, education, and tastings, all with hassle-free transfers from Melbourne. Guided by enthusiastic hosts, this tour promises a relaxed yet engaging experience, perfect for those who appreciate quality over quantity and love discovering local flavors in a friendly setting.

What truly makes this tour shine are the insightful guides, who bring the experience to life with their knowledge and humor, and the variety of tasting stops, from elegant wineries to sweet chocolate factories. The comfortable transport means you don’t need to worry about driving, so you can fully enjoy the indulgence.

The main consideration? The tour can sometimes feel a bit rushed at certain stops, especially the winery visits, which may be shorter than some wine lovers prefer. Plus, if you’re sensitive to flies or the summer heat, it’s worth preparing accordingly. This tour suits curious travelers who love a balanced mix of tasting, learning, and scenic views.

• All-inclusive experience with tasting fees covered, offering great value for the price.
• Diverse stops, from cheese farms and strawberry patches to top wineries and the renowned Four Pillars gin distillery.
• Expert guides like Sean and Posi, praised for their friendliness, humor, and knowledge.
• Flexible options for gin or wine tastings at Four Pillars depending on your preference.
• Lively atmosphere with a focus on sharing, learning, and authentic local flavors.
• Limited accessibility—not suitable for those with mobility issues or a dislike of summer flies and heat.

Getting Started: From Melbourne to Yarra Valley

The tour kicks off early in the morning at Arts Centre Melbourne, a central and convenient meeting point. With a prompt departure at 9:00 am, you’ll be on your way to the lush Yarra Valley. The comfortable van, often praised for its size and cleanliness, seats up to 20 travelers, making it intimate enough for conversations but lively enough for a shared experience.

We appreciated how the group size encourages friendly interactions, and the transportation itself allows ample time to relax, chat, or simply enjoy the passing scenery of rolling vineyards and farmland. The fact that the pickup and drop-off are included is a real boon—no fussing with taxis or public transport.

First Stops: Cheese, Strawberries & Scenic Views

Our first stop was Coldstream Dairy, where we enjoyed a guided tasting of three cheeses paired with crackers. The quality of the cheese was a highlight, with reviewers noting the wide variety of tastings and the chance to try handcrafted delights such as jams and sauces. As one reviewer put it, “there was a huge variety of activities and things to do,” emphasizing how this farm sets a great tone for the day.

From mid-July onwards, the tour includes a visit to a strawberry farm (on Tuesdays and Wednesdays) where you’re treated to fresh seasonal fruits and a free punnet of strawberries—a fun addition that’s highly appreciated by guests. Reviewers often mention how much they enjoy the freshness of the fruit and the chance to taste local produce that’s in season.

Wineries & Tastings: Soumah, Greenstone, and Yering Station

The heart of the tour is the wine tastings at iconic Yarra Valley wineries. Soumah, known for its Northern Italian/Eastern French style wines, earns praise for its rustic charm and quality. Reviewers like Dianne highlight the great value and knowledgeable guides who made the experience enjoyable.

Depending on the day, you’ll visit either Yering Station—Victoria’s oldest winery boasting historic buildings and lush gardens—or Greenstone Vineyards, which offers a laid-back vibe with a mix of Yarra Valley and Heathcote wines. While some guests noted that the wines didn’t always meet expectations (especially at lunch tastings), the visits are valued for their atmosphere and scenic setting.

Lunch is a flexible affair at Quarters Bistro within Hubert Estate, where you can purchase a meal that suits your appetite and budget. Reviewers appreciated the lively ambiance and the opportunity to purchase wine to enjoy later, though some wished for more in-depth tastings at this point.

Chocolate & Gin: Sweet & Spirituous Highlights

The Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery offers a delightful break with guided chocolate tastings, often cited as a favorite among travelers. Guests rave about the hand-crafted chocolates, and many mention how difficult it was to resist buying more.

The Four Pillars Distillery caps off the day, with their world-renowned gin. The gin tasting paddle—featuring four different gins—is a highlight, especially for those who enjoy spirits. Reviewers like Ronald comment on the generous tastings and the knowledgeable staff who share the story behind each gin.

You can opt for the full experience here, which includes a gin tasting or wine tasting instead, depending on your preference. The friendly guides make the experience both educational and fun, often playing music and keeping the mood lively.

Final Return & Reflection

By around 5:30 pm, the group is back at ACMI, tired but satisfied. Many reviews mention the well-organized schedule, though some note that certain stops felt rushed. Still, the friendly guides and variety of experiences tend to leave a positive impression.

This tour strikes a smart balance between organized convenience and authentic tasting experiences. The all-inclusive price covers most tastings, so there are no surprises, and you’re free to relax and savor each stop. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge are frequently praised, making even the more casual stops feel engaging.

The scenic drives between locations offer views of vineyards, farmland, and the Yarra River, adding to the overall enjoyment. Plus, the option to choose between gin or wine tastings at Four Pillars allows some customization, which we think is thoughtful.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

It’s ideal for food and drink lovers who want to sample a variety of local products in one day. It’s also suited for those who prefer not to drive, as the transportation is included. Families with children over 4 are welcome, though alcohol tastings are not provided to minors.

Given the friendly atmosphere and good value, it’s perfect for small groups or couples looking for a relaxed, social experience. If you’re interested in learning about local producers and prefer guided commentary, this tour delivers.

This Yarra Valley tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenic views, high-quality tastings, and expert guides. Its value for money is evident, especially with the variety of stops and inclusions, making it a great choice for those who want to cover a lot of ground without the stress of planning.

While some may find the winery visits a bit rushed, the overall atmosphere, friendly guides, and delicious tastings make up for it. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors or those wanting a taste of everything—literally and figuratively—in the lush Yarra Valley.

If you’re after a fun, educational, and tasty day out with easy logistics, this tour ticks the boxes. Just remember to come prepared for summer flies or the heat, and enjoy the chance to experience some of Melbourne’s best local flavors in a relaxed setting.

Is transport included in this tour?
Yes, transfers from central Melbourne to the Yarra Valley and back are included, making for a stress-free day.

Can I choose the gin or wine tasting at Four Pillars?
You have the option to switch between a gin tasting paddle or a wine tasting, depending on your preference, if you choose the full experience.

How long are the stops at each location?
Most stops are between 30 and 45 minutes, with some longer breaks for lunch and the gin tasting. The winery visits are somewhat timed, so they might feel brief.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children aged 4 and over are welcome, but they won’t be served alcohol. The tour is primarily designed for adults.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, and be prepared for summer flies and heat. A hat and water bottle are also recommended.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It may not be ideal, as some experiences involve stairs or walking on uneven surfaces, and the tour is not specifically designed for mobility impairments.

In sum, this tour offers a fantastic way to explore Yarra Valley’s diverse flavors, scenic beauty, and welcoming atmosphere without the fuss. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a chocolate lover, or simply in search of a memorable day with friends, it’s a solid choice.