Yarra Valley wine and gin tour with Champagne Lunch at Chandon!

If you’re visiting Melbourne and craving a day out exploring Australia’s famed Yarra Valley, this guided tour offers a perfect blend of wine tasting, gin sampling, scenic views, and delicious food. For around eight hours, you’ll hop between some of the region’s best wineries and producers—without the hassle of driving—thanks to a friendly local guide. The tour kicks off with a Champagne brunch at Chandon, which is just the beginning of a day packed with flavorful experiences and stunning vistas.

What we love most about this tour? First, the personalized, small-group setting makes each tasting feel intimate and relaxed, not rushed or crowded. Second, the inclusion of delicious tastings at Yarra Valley Dairy and Chocolaterie adds a delightful local touch beyond just wine—it’s about experiencing the region’s rich food culture.

Of course, no outing is perfect. One thing to keep in mind is that the timing at each stop is quite structured, so if you’re someone who likes to linger or explore at your own pace, this might feel a tad rushed. But overall, it’s a great fit for those who want a well-organized, informative, and tasty introduction to the Yarra Valley.

This tour is especially suited for foodies, wine lovers, and first-time visitors who appreciate expert guidance, authentic experiences, and a chance to sample a diverse range of regional produce—all in a friendly, small-group environment.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert guides like Craig and Kurt make the day informative, engaging, and fun.
• Multiple tastings at wineries, a distillery, and local food stops offer variety and depth.
• Champagne brunch at Chandon is a highlight, pairing sparkling wine with delicious hor d’oeuvres.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off from your Melbourne accommodation removes logistical stress.
• Authentic regional flavors — from wine and gin to cider and chocolates — showcase the diversity of Yarra Valley.

An In-Depth Review of the Yarra Valley Wine and Gin Tour

The Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at Federation Square, a central, easily accessible Melbourne landmark, with pick-up scheduled at 11:30 am. The benefit of a private tour is obvious: you get picked up directly from your accommodation, eliminating the need for public transport or car rental—both of which can complicate your day. The van used by the guides is described as spacious and cozy, making the journey comfortable even during longer drives between stops.

Traveling in a small group (up to 11 travelers) means you’ll get more attention and better interaction with your guides. As one reviewer noted, Craig, the owner and guide, personally does the tour, adding a personal touch that many larger operators can’t match.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Domaine Chandon – The Sparkling Wine Icon

The tour kicks off at Domaine Chandon, renowned as the queen of sparkling wine in Australia. This stop alone offers a real highlight: sampling a variety of sparkling wine styles and learning about the process of making champagne-style wine. The two-hour visit includes tasting sessions and a chance to get insights into the history and production methods.

Reviewers love how knowledgeable their guides are here. One said, “Craig prepared enough water and chocolate to keep us hydrated and ready for the next wine tasting,” showing the thoughtful touches that elevate the experience. The setting itself is polished and scenic, which makes the tasting feel special. Keep in mind that Chandon was temporarily closed for tastings in December 2020, so it’s worth double-checking before you go if this is a priority.

Stop 2: Yering Farm Wines – Rustic Charm and Views

Next, you’ll visit Yering Farm Wines, a boutique producer with rustic charm and spectacular views. This stop offers bold wines and apple ciders, providing a contrast to the elegance of Chandon. The tasting here is about an hour long, giving you time to enjoy the farmhouse ambiance and perhaps snap some photos of the rolling hills.

One guest described this as “a great experience with great views and bold wines,” noting that the atmosphere makes for a relaxed, authentic visit. It’s a good reminder that not all wineries are about luxury—some are about down-to-earth enjoyment.

Stop 3: Yering Station – Historic Vineyards and Pinot Noir

Following that, the tour visits Yering Station, Victoria’s first vineyard and a historic site. Here, wine tastings focus on Pinot Noir, alongside other varieties. The 45-minute session offers a taste of Australia’s finest reds and a chance to appreciate the storied past of this venerable estate.

Reviewers repeatedly mention how friendly and knowledgeable their guides are here. One shared, “Yering Station was the highlight—sampling wines at the home of Victoria’s first vineyard felt special,” which underscores the significance of this location.

Stop 4: Stag Lane Farm Distillery – Boutique Gins and Small-Batch Spirits

Switching gears, you’ll stop at Stag Lane Farm, a boutique distillery producing small-batch gins from produce grown on-site. The hour-long session allows for tastings of a range of gins and learning about the distillation process.

Review feedback highlights the passion and knowledge of the guides, with many emphasizing the quality of the gins and the personalized attention. One guest said, “Sampling the gins was a real treat, and the small batch process makes all the difference,” capturing the unique appeal of this stop.

Scenic Final Stop: Kangaroo Ground for a Wildlife Safari

On the way back to Melbourne, the day concludes with a “Kangaroo Safari” at Kangaroo Ground. Here, you are guaranteed to see wild kangaroos hopping about in their natural environment. It’s a 30-minute stop and is entirely free.

Reviews often mention this as a fun, unexpected highlight. One said, “Watching the kangaroos in the wild was a perfect ending—such a quintessential Australian experience.”

The Food and Drink Components

The Champagne brunch at Chandon is a standout feature, offering sparkling wine paired with hor d’oeuvres that set a celebratory tone for the day. Many reviews describe the meal as delicious and well-curated, with some calling it the highlight of the experience.

Beyond wine, the tour also includes visits to Yarra Valley Dairy and Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery for tastings. This extra focus on local cheese and chocolates highlights the region’s culinary diversity and makes the tour appealing for those who love food as much as wine.

The Experience: What Makes It Special?

The small-group format ensures that you’re not just another face in a crowd. Many reviews praise guides like Craig and Kurt for their knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility. As one guest put it, “Craig is very knowledgeable about the area and history, and he shares stories at just the right moments.”

The timing and structure mean you’ll visit five stops—from sparkling wine to gin—without feeling overwhelmed. The 8-hour duration strikes a balance between thoroughness and comfort, making sure you see a lot without getting exhausted.

The Price and Value

At $191.61 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. Consider that it includes all tastings, a Champagne brunch, transportation, and guided insights. The reviews support this: many call it “incredible value for money”.

The personalized attention and small group size mean you’re likely to have more meaningful conversations and tailored experiences—something that larger tours often lack. Plus, the local knowledge of guides like Craig adds a layer of authenticity and fun that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you appreciate expert guides, authentic regional flavors, and want to avoid the hassle of driving, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for first-timers to the Yarra Valley who want a rundown, but also for foodies who love sampling local cheeses, chocolates, and Ceylon-style gin.

It’s also well-suited for small groups or couples looking for a relaxed yet informative day, with the added bonus of scenic stops and wildlife encounters.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour For You?

This Yarra Valley tour offers a well-rounded experience—from champagne and wine tastings to gin and cider, topped with delicious local snacks. It’s especially valuable for travelers who want expert insights, personalized service, and the convenience of door-to-door pickup. The small-group size and diverse stops create an intimate, educational, and flavorful day out in one of Australia’s most iconic wine regions.

If you’re after a comfortable, hassle-free, and authentic way to explore the Yarra Valley’s best offerings, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s a balanced mix of scenic beauty, regional flavors, and friendly guides — a solid pick for making the most of a day in this renowned wine country.

FAQs

Can I book this tour if I’m staying outside Melbourne?
Yes, the pickup is from your Melbourne accommodation, so it’s convenient no matter where you stay in the city.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers all tastings at wineries and the distillery, a Champagne brunch, transportation, and guided commentary. Tastings at Yarra Valley Dairy and Chocolaterie are included as well.

How long do we stay at each stop?
Typically, each stop ranges from about 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the site. The longest is Domaine Chandon for sparkling wine tasting, while others like Yering Station are shorter.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or people with dietary restrictions?
Most tastings are food and drink-related, but the specific menu for the brunch isn’t detailed. It’s best to inquire directly if you have specific dietary needs.

What about the weather?
The tour is mostly outdoors, especially at winery stops. Check the forecast and dress accordingly—comfortable shoes and layers are a good idea.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Refunds are processed if canceled within this window.

This tour is a fantastic way to taste some of the best of Yarra Valley without the stress of planning. Whether you’re a wine novice or a connoisseur, the mix of guided tastings, scenic views, and local delicacies makes for a memorable day in Australia’s premier wine region.