Ultimate Yarra Valley Chandon, Soumah & De Bortoli Cheese & Wine

Exploring the Yarra Valley with a Personal Touch

If you’re looking for a memorable day out from Melbourne, this Ultimate Yarra Valley Chandon, Soumah & De Bortoli Cheese & Wine Tour offers a wonderful mix of delicious wines, artisan cheeses, and scenic countryside. Priced at around $183 per person and lasting about seven hours, it’s perfect for those wanting to indulge without the hassle of planning or driving. The tour starts with a convenient pickup at your Melbourne hotel, and you’ll be whisked away in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan, often with a small group of just 6 to 8 travelers, which makes for a more intimate experience.

What we love most about this tour is the personalized attention from your knowledgeable guide, who makes the day both fun and informative. The tastings at family-run wineries like De Bortoli feel authentic, and the gourmet two-course lunch in a vineyard setting stands out as a highlight—it’s relaxed, beautifully presented, and perfectly paired with local wines. Another key plus is the scenic drive through rolling hills and heritage vineyards, which makes the whole experience feel like a mini escape into wine country.

A potential consideration is the organization around winery visits, which can sometimes be affected by seasonal crowds or other groups. Several reviews mention that some tastings can feel rushed or amid unexpected delays, but overall, most find the experience rewarding and well worth the price. This tour suits travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy, interesting wine and cheese pairings, and a taste of regional Australian produce—especially those who prefer to relax and learn rather than rush from place to place.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Max of 8 travelers ensures personalized service and interaction.
• Authentic winery visits: Family-run and boutique wineries like De Bortoli offer genuine tastings.
• Gourmet lunch: A delicious 2-course meal paired with wine, set amidst vineyard views.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable and engaging guides add a lot of value.
• Hassle-free logistics: Pickup from Melbourne and smooth transportation ease the day.
• Variety of tastings: From award-winning wines to cheese pairings, there’s plenty to enjoy.

A Deeper Look at the Yarra Valley Tour

Transport and Group Size

The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off in Melbourne reduces stress and maximizes your time enjoying the views and tastings. The air-conditioned minivan offers a comfortable ride through some of Victoria’s most picturesque landscapes. With a maximum of 8 travelers, you get a cozy, friendly environment where the guide can tailor the experience more closely to your interests. Many reviews emphasize how this small-group format feels more personal, especially compared to larger, bus-based tours.

Itinerary Breakdown

The day begins around 10:00 am with pickup, giving you a relaxed start to your wine and food adventure. The first stop is De Bortoli Winery, a family-run estate renowned for its award-winning wines and artisan cheeses. Guests often mention that this is a highlight—the wine and cheese pairing is particularly praised for its quality and authenticity, with one reviewer calling it “friendly, amicable, and nice wines.”

Next, you’ll visit other local wineries, where the guide encourages questions and engagement about the winemaking process. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to sample a broad selection of wines, including chardonnay and pinot noir—the region’s stars—while enjoying the scenic vineyard views. The scenic drive between wineries showcases the rolling hills and heritage vineyards that make the Yarra Valley special.

Lunch Experience

Midday, you’ll head to a vineyard restaurant for a gourmet 2-course meal, often described as delicious and beautifully presented. The meal typically includes regional produce and can be enjoyed with a glass of wine, enhancing the local culinary experience. Several reviews mention that the lunch is a highlight, with one describing it as “delicately prepared with plenty of choices,” and noting the relaxing atmosphere with vineyard vistas.

Additional Tastings and Scenic Return

Post-lunch, you’ll visit a newer winery, where more tastings are available—some reviews note that these tastings are often small but high quality. The scenic drive back to Melbourne wraps up the day, with many travelers feeling satisfied after a balanced day of tasting, learning, and relaxing.

The Experience in Practice

From authentic family-run wineries to gourmet lunch, this tour offers a balance of education and indulgence. Guests often mention the friendly guides, particularly Bill and Nicci, who are praised for their humor, local insights, and attentiveness. The small group size makes conversations flow naturally, and the scenic landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for tasting and conversation.

Authenticity and Value

Most reviews consistently praise the quality of the tastings—not just the wines but the cheeses and regional produce. The tour’s value lies in the combination of private tastings, a gourmet meal, and the scenic drive, all facilitated by a knowledgeable guide. While some have noted that tastings can feel rushed or affected by winery crowds, the overall consensus is that this is a well-organized, rewarding experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for food and wine lovers, those who enjoy small-group tours, and travelers seeking an authentic taste of the Yarra Valley without the stress of driving or planning. It’s also perfect for anyone wanting a relaxed yet educational day with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and engage with vintners.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour from Melbourne offers a well-rounded exploration of the Yarra Valley’s best wines and cheeses. The focus on small group size and personalized service makes it stand out, along with delicious food and scenic views. The professionalism of guides and the authenticity of family-run wineries ensure that you get a true taste of regional Australia.

While some reviews mention the occasional rushed tasting or winery crowd, most agree that the overall experience is worth the price and effort. If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and tasty day trip—and you want to sample some of the region’s best wines and cheeses—this tour is a strong choice.

Ideal for those who value intimate experiences, good conversation, and regional flavors, this Yarra Valley tour delivers plenty of memorable moments.

FAQ

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup in Melbourne, making the day seamless and hassle-free.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at around 10:00 am and returning in the early evening.

Are there any dietary restrictions to consider?
Yes, please advise of any dietary requirements at the time of booking. Most meals and tastings should accommodate common needs, but it’s best to confirm.

What are the main stops on this tour?
The highlights are the De Bortoli Winery with its wine and cheese pairing, a gourmet lunch at a vineyard restaurant, and a visit to Chandon and Soumah wineries.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the minimum age is 18, as it involves alcohol tastings. It’s designed for adult travelers.

What’s included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation, live commentary, two premium wine tastings, cheese pairing at De Bortoli, and the gourmet 2-course lunch with wine.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund.

Are tips or extra purchases expected?
Tips are optional but appreciated if you enjoy the guide’s service. Extra wines or souvenirs are available for purchase at the wineries.

In the end, if you crave a relaxed, flavorful glimpse into Victoria’s wine and cheese culture, this tour provides both education and indulgence in a friendly, intimate setting. It’s perfect for those who want to savor the region’s best offerings without the stress of organization, leaving you with good stories and great tastes to take home.