Amazing Yarra Valley Wine Tour + Chocolate, Farm Fresh, Gin

If you’re looking for a way to sample the best of the Yarra Valley without the hassle of planning, this full-day tour from Melbourne might just be what you need. We’ve seen plenty of options, but the Amazing Yarra Valley Wine Tour + Chocolate, Farm Fresh, Gin stands out for its comprehensive approach, friendly vibe, and good value.

What really caught our eye are the all-inclusive tasting fees, which mean no surprises when it comes to paying at different venues. Plus, the small group size of 10 to 20 guests promises a more intimate experience, and the variety of stops — from vineyards and a chocolate factory to a strawberry farm and gin distillery — makes it appealing for a broad range of tastes.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour isn’t for those looking for a luxury or super exclusive experience; it’s more about enjoying diverse tastings comfortably and conveniently. Also, expect a full schedule, so if you prefer a slow, relaxed day, you might find it a bit rushed at times.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want a taste of everything the Yarra Valley has to offer—wines, chocolates, gin, and fresh produce—without having to drive or organize multiple visits themselves.

Key Points

• All-inclusive tasting fees remove the hassle of paying at each venue.
• Small group size makes for a more personalized experience.
• Variety of stops offers a broad taste of local produce, wine, chocolates, and spirits.
• Convenient transfers mean no worries about driving or navigation.
• Flexible optional gin tasting caters to those interested in spirits or wanting a more extensive experience.
• Duration of around 8.5 hours balances a full experience without overdoing it.

When you’re considering a tour that covers so many stops, the challenge is balancing a rich experience with enough time to actually enjoy each destination. This tour does a pretty good job at that, especially with its 8.5-hour window designed to give you a taste of everything without feeling overly rushed.

Starting Out: Easy Meet and Departure

Meeting point at the Arts Centre Melbourne Spire at 8:45am makes for a straightforward start, especially if you’re already in the city. The tour departs sharply at 9:00am, so punctuality helps. The group is limited to 20 people, which means the vibe is more relaxed than some larger tours where you can feel like just a number.

The First Stop: Yarra Farm Fresh

Most days, you’ll start with a visit to Yarra Farm Fresh. This is a highlight for anyone who appreciates fresh fruit, especially strawberries. The fact that tasting fresh strawberries is included makes it feel like a genuine farmers’ experience, rather than just a tasting stop. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed the fresh seasonal fruits and the laid-back atmosphere — a nice way to kick off the day.

The Vineyards: Yering Station and Yering Farm Wines

Next, you’ll visit Yering Station, known as Victoria’s oldest winery. With a history dating back to the 19th century, it’s a place where you can really sense the heritage and craftsmanship. The wine tastings here are hosted at a beautiful estate, and many reviews highlight the elegant wines and the friendly staff.

At Yering Farm Wines, expect a more rustic, relaxed feel. Here, you can try classic Yarra Valley wines and a surprisingly refreshing apple cider, which many find a nice change of pace. It’s a good chance to taste a broad spectrum of what the region offers, with the added bonus of a cozy farm vibe.

Lunch Break at St Hubert Estate

The lunch break at St Hubert Estate is a flexible part of the day. You can choose to purchase a meal and drinks at the Quarters restaurant, which many find lively and suitable for different appetites and budgets. The estate also offers the option to explore their cellar door, art gallery, and wine shop if you prefer a quieter moment. This is a good mid-point that balances a good meal with a chance to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.

Sweet Treats at the Chocolaterie & Farm

A visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery is undeniably a highlight, especially if you’re a sucker for sweets. The guided tasting of over a dozen handcrafted chocolates impresses many, and the ice cream options are perfect on a warm day. The reviews suggest that this stop is fun and delicious, with some noting it as a favorite for its generous chocolate tastings.

The Spirit of the Day: Gin Tasting

The optional gin tasting session at Stag Lane Farm Distillery or Four Pillars Distillery (depending on the day) is a real bonus for spirits lovers. Many reviews praise the friendly guides and the educational aspect of the tastings, with some noting that the gin flight is a great way to learn more about distilling.

If no one opts for the gin experience, the tour extends the final stop by 15 minutes and departs earlier, so you can customize based on your interest.

Final Stop and Return

The tour wraps up by 5:30pm at ACMI, with a relaxed return to Melbourne. The itinerary allows ample time to enjoy the stops, take photos, and ask questions, making it more than just a drive-by experience.

The value here is notable. At $93.24 per person, including all tasting fees, you’re getting a full day of diverse tastings without the worry of extra charges. Many reviews highlight how the small group size creates a friendly, engaging atmosphere, often mentioning the knowledgeable guides who add stories and context that elevate each stop.

The variety of stops ensures there’s something for all—wine, chocolates, fresh fruit, and gin. This makes the trip good for couples, groups, or even solo travelers wanting to meet others with similar interests.

The convenience of transfers from Melbourne is a significant plus, freeing you from the stress of driving or navigating unfamiliar roads. Plus, the tour is flexible enough to accommodate different tastes with optional gin tastings and a lunch break you can tailor to your budget.

What Could Be Better?

Some reviews note that at the wineries, tastings can feel rushed, and pours small — typical of many group tours. The overall schedule is packed, which could be tiring if you prefer a leisurely pace. Also, since lunch isn’t included, you’ll want to eat breakfast beforehand or plan on spending a little extra on your meal.

Weather can influence the experience, as it’s outdoors most of the day, so checking the forecast and dressing appropriately matters—especially in summer when it can get hot.

This experience suits travellers looking for variety—those who want to sample wine, chocolate, and spirits in one go. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want a comprehensive taste of the Yarra Valley’s offerings.

It’s also a good choice for those who prefer a small group environment with friendly guides who keep things engaging. While not specifically family-focused, it can work for older teens interested in tasting and learning about wine and spirits, but note that children won’t be served alcohol.

If you’re someone who values organized logistics and an all-inclusive price, this tour ticks those boxes well. However, if you’re after a more relaxed, unstructured day or want to focus solely on wine, you might find this a little too busy.

Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?
No, this tour starts at the Arts Centre Melbourne and ends at ACMI, with transfers included between Melbourne and Yarra Valley. You’ll need to arrange your own transport to and from the meeting points.

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 8 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time, tastings, and lunch break. Expect to be on the bus for most of the day, with plenty of stops.

Is lunch included in the price?
No, lunch is at your own expense. The tour provides time to purchase food at St Hubert Estate, where there’s a lively restaurant option.

Are tastings free?
Yes, all tasting fees are included in the price, which is a big plus for those who want to avoid extra charges. The only additional costs are for optional tastings at some venues, like whisky or additional wine bottles.

Can children join?
Yes, children aged 4-17 are welcome, but they won’t be served alcohol. It’s ideal for families or groups with teens interested in the experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are best, especially since some stops involve walking or standing. Summer can be hot, so pack sunscreen and a hat; in cooler months, layer up.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to extreme weather, you can choose an alternative date or get a full refund.

How many people are on the tour?
The group is capped at 20 guests, which helps create a more relaxed and personalized atmosphere.

What happens if no one opts for the gin tasting?
The final stop extends by 15 minutes, and the group departs earlier to ensure a smooth return.

If you’re after a well-organized, engaging day that covers the essential tastes of the Yarra Valley—wine, chocolates, gin, and fresh produce—this tour delivers. The small group size, all-inclusive pricing, and variety of stops make it a strong choice for most travelers wanting to experience the region without stress or fuss.

Keep in mind, the schedule is full, so if you prefer a super relaxed day or want to focus on just one aspect (like wine), you might want to explore other options. However, for those wanting an overall sampler platter of what makes the Yarra Valley special, this tour hits the mark.

Whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor, the mix of scenery, good company, and delicious tastings will likely leave you with plenty of lovely memories—and maybe some bottles or chocolates to bring home.

Enjoy your trip, and cheers to discovering the best of the Yarra Valley.