Yarra Valley: Winery Tour with Lunch at Yering Station

Planning a visit to Victoria’s renowned Yarra Valley? This winery tour with lunch at Yering Station promises a taste of the region’s best wines, stunning scenery, and a touch of boutique charm. We’ve looked into it thoroughly, so if you’re considering this experience, here’s what you need to know.

Two things we really like about this tour are the small-group setting, which makes for a more personal, less rushed experience, and the quality of the wineries selected—each spot offers something unique, from historic estates to experimental boutique vineyards. But, a potential consideration is that the tour lasts around 10 hours, so it’s a full day—something to keep in mind if you prefer shorter activities or have limited stamina.

This tour seems best suited for wine lovers who appreciate good scenery, excellent guides, and a touch of luxury. If you’re after an immersive, relaxed, and high-quality wine experience outside of Melbourne, this could be a great fit for you. Let’s break down what you can expect.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small-group tours ensure more tailored attention.
• Diverse Wineries: Visit 4 carefully chosen vineyards offering different styles and histories.
• Gourmet Lunch: Enjoy a multi-course a la carte meal at the iconic Yering Station.
• Beautiful Scenery: The tour provides scenic views of the Yarra Valley’s rolling hills and vineyards.
• Expert Guides: Many reviews praise guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling.
• Value for Money: The combination of wine tastings, lunch, and guided insights makes it a worthwhile splurge.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting from one of four convenient Melbourne pickup points—Fitzroy, Southbank, East Melbourne, or Melbourne City—the journey to the Yarra Valley is part of the charm. The drive is around an hour, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the countryside views. The transport is in a comfortable bus or coach, and the group size is kept small enough to foster a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

De Bortoli Vineyard – The Elegant Opening

Your first stop is De Bortoli Vineyard at Dixons Creek, a vineyard with a history dating back to 1928. Here, you’ll experience an elegant pairing of wines and cheeses, setting a refined tone for the day. According to reviews, this is a lovely way to begin, with many guests appreciating the knowledgeable staff and the chance to taste wines like their famous Noble One or other regional favorites.

Yering Station – The Historic Heart of the Valley

Next, you’ll head to Yering Station, the first vineyard in the region, established all the way back in 1838. Walking into the winery, you’re stepping into history—this estate features wine tastings in the original 1859 winery building, which also displays local artworks and produce. The highlight here is the a la carte lunch, which offers a variety of main courses paired with Yering Station’s estate wines. Guests frequently comment on the spectacular views and high-quality cuisine—a real treat that elevates the whole experience.

Smaller Boutiques – The Hidden Gems

After lunch, the tour shifts gears with a visit to Payten & Jones, a boutique producer known for approachable, small-batch wines like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Mediterranean varietals. The reviews mention their wines have personality and approachability, making this stop a favorite for those wanting something different from the bigger labels.

Substituting in some cases, on days when Medhurst Vineyard isn’t open, the tour visits other notable vineyards like Punt Road, Dominique Portet, Giant Steps, or Oakridge. These lesser-known, family-owned vineyards focus on producing elegant, small-scale wines—perfect for tasting something you might not find outside the region.

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Afternoon Tastings – A Variety of Styles

The final part of your itinerary involves about an hour of tasting at Medhurst Vineyard, perched in the Warramate Ranges. Here, you’ll find small, family-owned wines with a local character. Reviewers praise the delightful setting and the friendly hosts, which make this stop feel authentic and relaxed.

Wrapping Up

The tour concludes with drop-offs at the same locations you were picked up from, making the day flow smoothly. The total duration is about 10 hours, which is a significant commitment but offers a deep dive into the region’s wines, scenery, and history.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Guides: Consistently praised across reviews, guides like Rob, Adrian, Cam, Paul, and Shane are noted for their extensive knowledge and friendly manner. They bring stories and insights that make the day more engaging, especially if you’re interested in the background of each vineyard.

The Wineries: From historic estates to boutique producers, each stop offers something different, which keeps the experience fresh. Many guests appreciate the variety, especially the chance to taste both well-known and lesser-known wines.

The Lunch: The meal at Yering Station is often called a highlight—high-quality, beautifully presented, and paired with excellent wines. Many reviews mention the “amazing gourmet lunch” and the “spectacular views”, making it not just a meal but a memorable part of the day.

The Scenery: The rolling hills, lush vineyards, and mountain views are a constant backdrop. It’s a calming, picture-perfect environment that makes wine tasting even more enjoyable.

Price and Value

While the tour doesn’t list a specific price, reviews suggest that the experience is worth the investment, especially considering the inclusions—multiple tastings, a gourmet lunch, and personalized attention. It’s on the pricier side compared to some other tours, but many guests feel the quality, expertise, and scenery justify the cost.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adults who enjoy wine and are comfortable spending a full day outdoors. It’s perfect for those wanting a more refined, boutique experience with high-quality guidance. It’s less suited for travelers on a tight schedule or those who prefer shorter activities, as it’s a full-day commitment.

Practical Tips

• Dress smart casual—no sandals or flip-flops, and be prepared for a full day.
• Arrive with an open mind and appetite; the lunch and tastings are generous.
• If you’re a wine enthusiast, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of the Yarra Valley’s best wines.
• Consider whether you want to purchase bottles; some wineries do sell to visitors.
• If you have dietary restrictions, it’s worth checking with the provider in advance about lunch options.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so it’s best suited for travelers who can comfortably manage walking around vineyards and historic sites.

Do I need to bring my own wine glass or tasting tools?
No, all tastings are organized by the wineries, and guides will ensure you have what you need.

Is the tour kid-friendly?
This is an adult-oriented experience due to the wine tastings, and the minimum drinking age is 18.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is recommended. Avoid sandals or flip-flops, and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour follows a set schedule, but guides often share stories and insights based on the group’s interests.

How long is each winery visit?
Visit durations vary but generally include 45-minute tastings at each vineyard, with additional time at Yering Station for lunch.

What if I want to buy wine?
Most wineries offer bottles for sale; you might find some tempting options to take home.

Are drinks included in the lunch?
Yes, your main course includes a glass of wine, and additional tastings are available at the vineyards.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours incur a fee.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a luxurious, well-organized day exploring the Yarra Valley’s wine scene, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. The small-group atmosphere, expert guides, and carefully curated wineries make it stand out among other options. The included gourmet lunch in a historic setting adds a real touch of class, making the day not just about tasting wine but savoring the experience.

This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts, couples, or groups who want a relaxed, educational journey through one of Australia’s top wine regions. It’s a balanced mix of history, scenery, and sensory delight—sure to leave you with a full glass and a full memory.

You can check availability for your dates here: