Epic Yarra Valley Wine Tour + Lunch, Chocolate & Gin/Beer Option

A Day in the Yarra Valley: Wineries, Chocolates, and More

When you think of a day trip from Melbourne that combines scenic beauty with exceptional local produce, the Epic Yarra Valley Wine Tour checks all the boxes. For just over $130 per person, you get an approximately 8.5-hour journey through some of the region’s most acclaimed wineries, along with a delicious two-course lunch, and a sweet finale at the Yarra Valley Chocolate & Ice Cream Factory. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides, this tour is designed to make your day effortless and packed with genuine tasting experiences.

A couple of highlights keep this tour shining. First, the carefully selected wineries—ranging from renowned estates like Yering Station to boutique producers such as Soumah—offer a taste of both classic and innovative wines. Second, the all-inclusive nature means you don’t have to worry about logistics or driving, allowing you to relax and truly enjoy each stop. On the downside, if you’re someone sensitive to flies or the Australian summer heat, you might find the outdoor tasting and warm weather a bit challenging. This tour suits those who love good wine, scenic drives, and a relaxed, social atmosphere, especially if you’re eager to explore beyond the typical tourist spots.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with transportation, tastings, and lunch
• Visit four curated wineries, including both well-known and boutique producers
• Flexible options to swap the last winery for a gin distillery or brewery
• Delicious two-course shared lunch with a glass of wine included
• Enjoy a sweet finale at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Cream Factory
• Small group size (max 20) for a more personal, friendly experience

Exploring the Yarra Valley with Ease and Authenticity

This tour offers an authentic taste of the Yarra Valley, not just through its wines but also via the scenic landscapes, friendly guides, and thoughtful stops. We loved the way the logistics are handled — no need to worry about transport or planning. Instead, you’re free to focus on what matters: tasting, chatting, and enjoying the views.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Starting point at Arts Centre Melbourne Spire makes it easy to join your fellow travelers without fuss. At 8:45 AM, with a prompt departure, you’re off to a day filled with delightful discoveries.

Yering Station kicks off our wine adventure. Known as one of the region’s most iconic wineries, it’s a great place to start because of its extensive range of high-quality wines and beautiful estate. Here, you’ll get an introduction to local varieties and a chance to enjoy the vibe of a well-established estate.

Next, depending on the day, you’ll visit either Soumah or Tokar Estate. Soumah is a boutique that specializes in offering guided tastings of distinctive wines, often paired with the chance to explore their estate. According to reviews, many guests find Soumah’s wines “really good,” and the setting “stunning,” making it a highlight. Conversely, on days when Tokar is included, you’ll enjoy their famous Tempra and other styles, with a chance to walk around their estate.

Helen & Joey Estate offers a lovely lakeside setting, where you can stroll around and sample more fabulous wines. Its beautiful location and relaxed atmosphere make it a favorite among visitors, with some reviewers mentioning the “beautiful surroundings” and “fabulous wines.”

Payten & Jones is a smaller, eclectic winery known for its daring blends and unique style. It’s a perfect spot for those wanting to try something a bit different, and some guests appreciate the option to swap tastings for a glass of beer or wine.

Lunch is a highlight — a two-course shared meal that typically includes antipasto and mains, with a glass of wine. Many reviews praise the food as “delicious” and “well presented,” making this a proper taste of local hospitality.

The final stop varies depending on your chosen experience. Most groups visit the Yarra Valley Chocolate & Ice-Cream Factory for a sweet ending, where you can indulge in handmade chocolates, ice creams, and jams. For those booked on a “CLASSIC WINE & GIN” or “CLASSIC WINE & BEER” option, you’ll swap the last winery for either Four Pillars Gin Distillery or Watts River Brewery. Guests consistently rave about the gin tastings, describing Four Pillars as “world-class” and the brewery as “friendly and well-curated.”

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Reviewers keep returning for the friendly guides who are both informative and engaging, creating a warm, social atmosphere. One guest noted, “Stefan was knowledgeable, funny, and kept us entertained.” Others appreciated the small group size, which fosters conversations and makes the experience more personal.

The value for money is another big plus. For just over $130, you get transport, four winery tastings, lunch, and a final sweet treat. Compared to DIY visits, this saves money and time, and reduces stress, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the region.

The Authenticity and Experience

What truly makes this tour special is its focus on authentic, local experiences. The wineries are carefully chosen—not just the big players, but also boutique producers that you might not find on your own. The inclusion of chocolates and optional gin or beer tastings means the day isn’t solely about wine, but about sampling some of the best local products.

Most reviews mention the stunning scenery and the relaxed pace, making it clear this isn’t a rushed affair. You’ll have plenty of time at each stop to savor your tastings and enjoy the surroundings. The lunch is well-liked for its hearty, well-prepared dishes and the opportunity to mingle with fellow travelers.

Practical Details: Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The mini bus is described as comfortable, clean, and spacious enough to keep everyone at ease during the scenic drives. Travel times between stops are reasonable, giving you enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The group size of 20 or fewer helps keep the atmosphere intimate and friendly.

All logistics are managed, so you won’t need to worry about navigating or organizing. The pickup point at Arts Centre Melbourne is central, and the tour concludes back at Fed Square around 5:30 PM, giving you ample time to explore more of Melbourne afterward.

Considerations and Who Should Avoid

While the experience is largely positive, there are a few things to keep in mind. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, as some stops involve walking or stairs. Also, the Australian summer can bring flies and heat, which might bother some travelers. If you’re sensitive to insects or heat, consider the season and your comfort.

Finally, if you’re not a big fan of alcohol or outdoor heat, or if you prefer a very flexible, DIY approach, this might not be your best fit. But for wine lovers seeking convenience, quality, and a friendly guide, this tour hits the mark.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This Yarra Valley tour is perfect for anyone wanting a relaxed, well-organized day of tasting some of Australia’s finest wines, combined with delicious food and a bit of sweet indulgence. It’s especially good for travelers who value guidance, quality experiences, and authentic local products over DIY sightseeing.

If you’re looking for a small group environment where you can chat easily with guides and fellow travelers, this is ideal. It’s also a brilliant choice if you want to explore boutique wineries that are less accessible on your own, while enjoying a stress-free day with transportation and lunch included.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour starts at Arts Centre Melbourne Spire, but it’s centrally located and easy to reach via public transport.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, from around 8:45 AM to 5:30 PM, including all tastings, lunch, and stops.

Can I switch the last winery for a gin or brewery?
Yes, on select days, you can choose to swap the last winery for either Four Pillars Gin Distillery or Watts River Brewery. Contact the provider directly to confirm availability.

What is included in the price?
You get guided tastings at four wineries, a two-course shared lunch with a glass of wine, visits to the chocolate factory, and transport in a comfortable mini bus.

Are there vegetarian options for lunch?
The lunch typically includes shared antipasto and mains, but dietary requirements should be addressed with the provider ahead of time.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the minimum age is 18, mainly because of alcohol tastings and the nature of the experience.

Final Thoughts

This Yarra Valley tour offers a well-balanced taste of Victoria’s premier wine and food scene, all wrapped in a relaxed, friendly environment. The combination of carefully selected wineries, delicious lunch, and final sweet treat makes it a compelling package. The guides consistently receive praise for their knowledge and warmth, making this not just a wine trip but a memorable outing.

Ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who appreciate genuine experiences and good value, this tour lets you enjoy the best of the Yarra Valley without the fuss. It’s perfect if you’re after a fun, educational, and tasty day that leaves you with wonderful memories and maybe a few bottles to take home.