Melbourne: Yarra Valley Wine Tour & Lunch & Gin/Beer Option

A Day in Yarra Valley: Wineries, Gourmet Lunch, and More

If you’re looking to escape Melbourne’s city buzz for a day, this Yarra Valley Wine Tour offers a taste of Australia’s renowned cool-climate wines, paired with a delicious lunch and exciting options for craft gin or beer tastings. For just $129 per person, you’ll spend roughly 8.5 hours in comfort, exploring four handpicked wineries, indulging in a two-course meal, and finishing with a sweet visit to a chocolate factory. Our guide, whose enthusiasm and knowledge shine through in reviews, makes the experience lively and engaging.

What we love most? First, the carefully curated winery visits—from iconic estates like Yering Station to boutique favorites—give a true sense of regional diversity. Second, the lunch at Soumah Winery is a standout, where communal antipasto and a personal main dish create a convivial vibe that many reviewers raved about. The only possible drawback? The tour’s popularity means it fills up quickly, so early booking is advisable to secure the preferred options, especially if you want to switch to gin or beer tastings.

This tour suits those who appreciate authentic wine experiences, enjoy good company, and want a hassle-free day with everything included. If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and slightly indulgent day out, this is a perfect pick. It’s especially well-loved by travelers who praise guides like Sean, Karen, and Danny for their friendliness and local knowledge.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Expertly Chosen Wineries: Visit four premium and boutique wineries, each offering a different view of Yarra Valley’s wine scene.
• Gourmet Lunch Included: A two-course meal at Soumah, with a shared antipasto platter and a main dish, paired with a glass of wine.
• Flexible Tasting Options: Switch the last winery to either a gin distillery or a brewery for a craft experience.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in a modern, air-conditioned minibus with a small group size, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere.
• Adults-Only Experience: Designed exclusively for grown-ups, with no children or large luggage allowed.
• Authentic Local Guides: Guides are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make everyone feel welcome.

Exploring the Full Itinerary: What to Expect

The adventure begins bright and early, with a meeting point in front of Arts Centre Melbourne. From there, you’re whisked away in a tidy, climate-controlled minibus—no cramped bus rides here. The group is usually small, around 20 people or fewer, which helps create a cozy, friendly vibe.

Winery Visits: Four Hand-Picked Gems

You’ll visit four carefully selected wineries, such as Yering Station, Soumah, Helen & Joey Estate, and Payten & Jones. The emphasis is on experiencing a range of styles—from iconic estates with sprawling vineyards to boutique producers showcasing unique blends. The tastings typically include 5-6 different wines at each stop, giving you a broad taste of what Yarra Valley offers.

Many visitors rave about the guides’ storytelling — “Sean was great. Very knowledgeable and approachable,” says one review. Expect insights into Australian wine culture, varietals, and the region’s history, making each tasting both enjoyable and educational. Some guests note that the tastings are generous, and if you prefer a glass or beer instead of a tasting, you can specify this at the fourth stop, adding a personal touch.

The Lunch Experience: A Social Highlight

The tour’s exclusive lunch at Soumah Winery is often highlighted as a major plus. Once seated—often with fellow travelers—you’ll share a hearty antipasto platter before choosing your main from a seasonal menu. The inclusion of a glass of wine adds to the experience, and many reviews praise the quality of the food and the scenic vineyard setting—”Really proud to be the only daily tour operator that offers this lunch,” notes one traveler.

The communal aspect — sharing antipasto, chatting with new friends, and savoring good food—makes this a highlight for many. It’s not just about eating; it’s about connecting and appreciating the regional flavors.

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Chocolate & Ice-Cream Factory: A Sweet Finish

No trip to Yarra Valley is complete without a stop at the Yarra Valley Chocolate & Ice-Cream Factory. Here, you can indulge in treats like gelato and chocolates, and browse gift options. Many reviews mention this as a fun, lighthearted end to the day — a chance to relax and satisfy sweet cravings before heading back to Melbourne.

Customizable Final Stop: Gin or Beer?

For a small extra fee, you can swap out the final winery visit for either Four Pillars Gin Distillery or Watts River Brewery. The gin tasting offers four different gins with mixers, often praised for the quality and variety. Similarly, the brewery tasting features four core craft beers, perfect for beer lovers.

This flexibility means you can tailor the day to your taste preferences, whether you’re more into spirits or brews. The reviews show that this option often delights participants, who appreciate the chance to sample more than just wine.

What the Tour Really Means for You

The value of this tour lies not just in the number of stops but in the experience of being guided by passionate locals who know their region inside-out. The cost covers all tastings, the gourmet lunch, transport, and the chocolate factory visit, so there are no hidden extra expenses unless you opt for the gin or beer upgrade.

Many guests comment on the generous tastings, the high-quality food, and the friendly guides — “Really fun and interesting trip with a great tour guide,” says one review. The small group size means conversations flow easily, and you won’t feel lost in a crowd.

However, be aware that the tour operates with a maximum of 20 passengers, and the lunch menu can vary—sometimes mains are shared instead of individual. Also, the tour is adult-only, so it isn’t suitable for children or those with mobility issues, especially with stairs at some venues.

Practical Tips

• Meeting point is in front of Arts Centre Melbourne at 8:45 am sharp.
• Parking near the meeting spot is generally available, but arrive early to avoid last-minute rush.
• Luggage is not permitted on the tour, so travel light.
• Dietary needs? Contact the operator beforehand—most requests can be accommodated.
• The tour runs rain or shine, so bring suitable clothing and sun protection.

Authenticity and Reviews: What Real Travelers Say

The tour consistently garners high praise, averaging a 4.9 out of 5 based on over 300 reviews. Guests mention knowledgeable guides like Sean, Danny, Karen, and Stephan, who make the journey engaging and fun. Comments such as “Sean couldn’t have been more helpful and informative” and “Karen was amazing, very good vibe” reflect the high level of customer service.

The variety of wineries, the quality of the lunch, and the chocolate shop all receive rave reviews. Many travelers highlight the generous tastings — “Plenty of wines and gins to taste with a wonderful lunch,” says one guest. The scenery is often described as stunning, with vineyards and rolling hills adding to the relaxed, scenic atmosphere.

Some reviewers mention minor quirks, like the itinerary sometimes changing or longer stops at certain venues, but overall, the feedback emphasizes value, fun guides, and a well-organized day.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This tour is ideal for adults who enjoy wine and craft spirits and want a comprehensive, hassle-free day in Yarra Valley. It suits those who appreciate good food and are happy to spend a full day sightseeing, tasting, and socializing. The inclusion of a gourmet lunch and optional gin or beer tastings makes it especially appealing to foodies and drink enthusiasts.

If you’re looking for an educational experience with a good dose of fun, and you value small group intimacy and local guides, this tour will not disappoint. It’s perfect for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of organizing transport and visits independently but still enjoy authentic, fresh regional flavors.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at the Arts Centre Melbourne, and you’ll need to meet there.

Can I switch the last winery to a gin or beer tasting?
Yes, for a small extra fee, you can opt for either Four Pillars Gin Distillery or Watts River Brewery.

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts about 8.5 hours, starting from 8:45 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Are food and tastings included?
Yes, all wine tastings, the gourmet two-course lunch, and the chocolate factory visit are covered.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, it’s exclusively for adults; children and pregnant women should look for other options.

What happens if it rains?
The tour operates rain or shine. Just bring appropriate clothing and enjoy the scenery regardless of weather.

Final Thoughts

This Yarra Valley wine tour offers an impressive mix of delicious wines, scenic views, a quality meal, and flexible tasting options—all in a comfortable, small-group setting. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge elevate the experience, making it more than just a tasting trip; it’s a fun, immersive day that showcases the best of Yarra Valley.

For those who value authenticity, variety, and a relaxed atmosphere, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s particularly well-suited for adults who want a hassle-free way to sample regional wines and spirits while enjoying good company and beautiful scenery.

If your idea of a perfect day involves discovering local flavors, engaging guides, and a touch of indulgence, this tour should definitely be on your list. Just remember to book early if you want to secure the gin or beer options, and prepare for a day filled with laughter, learning, and delicious tastes.

You can check availability for your dates here: