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

If you’re considering a full-day escape from Melbourne into the scenic Yarra Valley, this tour offers a pretty compelling package. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded experience for wine lovers and those craving a taste of Victoria’s lush countryside.

What really catches our eye are the carefully selected wineries and the delicious 2-course lunch – a rare treat that allows travelers to enjoy good food in a spectacular setting. The flexibility to swap out the last winery for a gin distillery or brewery also adds a personalized touch that appeals to a variety of tastes.

One thing to keep in mind is that it’s an adults-only tour, which is perfect if you’re after a relaxed, wine-focused day without kids in tow. But if you’re traveling with family or looking for a more inclusive, family-friendly outing, this might not be the best fit. Still, for wine enthusiasts, foodies, or anyone wanting a smooth, well-organized day trip, this tour is worth considering.

So, who would love this experience? It’s ideal for adults seeking a comprehensive tasting tour, those wanting to learn about local wines and spirits, or anyone looking for a fun, social day in a beautiful region with excellent guides leading the way.

Key Points

• Premium wineries: Visit four hand-picked wineries for tastings, from boutique to renowned producers.
• Delicious lunch: Enjoy a shared antipasto platter and an individual main at a stunning winery, with a glass of wine included.
• Sweet finale: Finish at the Yarra Valley Chocolate & Ice-Cream Factory for a sugary treat.
• Flexible options: Swap the final winery for a Four Pillars Gin distillery or Watts River Brewery for tastings of spirits or craft beers.
• Comfortable transport: Travel in a clean, modern minibus with a maximum group size of 20, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert guides: Reviews consistently praise guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and fun vibe.

This tour is designed to give you a full, seamless day of wine, food, and fun, all while taking in some of Victoria’s loveliest scenery. It starts bright and early from the Arts Centre Melbourne, with departure at 9:00 am—so it’s best to be punctual. The small group size (up to 20 people) makes for a more intimate experience, where you’re not just another face in the crowd.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Winery Visits: A Taste of Local Charm

The day kicks off with a visit to Yering Station, one of the region’s most iconic vineyards. You’ll enjoy a tasting session here—likely about an hour—that introduces you to its acclaimed wines and spectacular vineyard views. From there, the itinerary typically includes four wineries, each offering their own vibe and specialties, such as Soumah, Helen & Joey Estate, or Payten & Jones.

Many reviews highlight how thoughtfully chosen the wineries are. The diversity means you’ll get to see both traditional and boutique producers, gaining a broader appreciation for what makes Yarra Valley wines special. Reviewers like Rachel and Rebecca praise the well-selected wineries and the chance to taste a good variety of wines from local producers.

The Lunch: A Highlight for Foodies

The lunch at Soumah winery is a real highlight. The organizers have gone to great lengths to make it more than just a meal—it’s a social experience. Expect a seasonal 2-course lunch with shared antipasto platters followed by individual mains, all accompanied by a glass of wine. Many reviews emphasize how delicious and filling the lunch is, with some travelers noting the venue’s stunning setting and the quality of the food.

Julie mentions that the lunch “made the trip”, and many appreciate the opportunity to chat with fellow travelers and unwind in a scenic environment. The fact that this lunch is included in the price is a solid value, especially given the quality and setting.

The Tasting Options: Gin, Beer, or Wine?

One of the tour’s unique features is the option to switch the last winery stop. Instead of Payten & Jones, you can choose to visit Four Pillars Gin Distillery, where you’ll sample four different gins with a mixer of your choice. Alternatively, from Thursday to Monday, you can opt for Watts River Brewery to sample their craft beers.

Reviews from travelers who selected these options rave about the quality of the tastings. Rebecca and others say the gin flight was generous and enjoyable, adding a spirited twist to the day. The brewery option also offers a refreshing change for those more into beer than wine.

The Sweet Finish: Chocolate & Ice Cream

After a day of tasting, the visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolate & Ice-Cream Factory is a perfect way to indulge. Here, you can help yourself to chocolates and ice-creams, and maybe pick up some gifts for friends and family. Visitors like Carla and Rosalie are quick to point out how much they enjoyed this sweet ending—some even say it’s the cherry on top of a terrific day.

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Transportation & Group Size

Traveling in a modern, clean minibus, the group size is kept small (no more than 20), which enhances comfort and interaction. Reviewers consistently mention how comfortable and well-organized the transportation is, making the journey between stops smooth and stress-free.

The Guides: The Heart of the Experience

Time and again, reviewers praise the guides—most notably for their knowledge, friendliness, and sense of humor. Stefan and Danny are frequently mentioned, with comments like “the guide made the day” and “kept the vibe fun and lively.” Their insights about the region, wines, and spirits help deepen the experience, especially for those new to wine tasting.

Value for Money: A Thoughtful Package

Considering that the trip covers all tastings, the gourmet lunch, transportation, and optional spirits or beer tastings, many travelers feel it offers good value. The reviews highlight that the experience is well-organized, with no hidden costs, and the inclusions make it easier to relax and enjoy the day without surprises.

The itinerary takes you from the Arts Centre Melbourne to the picturesque vineyards approximately 75 minutes away. You’ll spend about an hour at Yering Station, followed by a generous 1 hour and 45 minutes for lunch and winery visits. Then, more tastings at Helen & Joey, and the optional final stops—either a gin distillery or brewery—round out the afternoon.

Each stop offers about an hour of tasting and exploring, giving you ample time to savor the wines, spirits, or beers. The day ends with a short 40-minute visit to the chocolate factory before heading back to Melbourne, arriving around 5 pm.

Practical Considerations

The tour is perfect for adults, with no children or family-friendly activities. It’s also not suitable for those with mobility issues, especially with stairs involved at some venues. As it’s a full-day experience, wear comfortable shoes, and bring sun protection if it’s a sunny day.

The group size maxes out at 8 per booking, which means it’s a more personal experience, but it also requires early booking. The tour operates rain or shine, and they ask guests to be punctual—late arrivals cannot be accommodated or refunded.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

This tour seems to hit that sweet spot for many travelers: stunning scenery, quality tastings, delicious lunch, and entertaining guides. The flexibility to switch out the last stop is a nice feature, catering to different preferences for spirits or craft beers.

While the focus is clearly on adult enjoyment, it’s clear from reviews that the experience also fosters social connection and fun. The all-inclusive price feels like good value when considering the number of tastings, the gourmet lunch, and the hassle-free transportation.

If you’re a wine enthusiast, a food lover, or someone interested in spirits and craft beers with a penchant for beautiful scenery, this trip offers a lot. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy guided, organized day trips that take care of logistics and let you focus on tasting, learning, and relaxing.

Oddly, if you’re traveling with children, pregnant, or have mobility restrictions, this probably isn’t the right pick. But for adults wanting a fun, social, and well-rounded day in the Yarra Valley—this tour ticks many boxes.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
Yes, the lunch is a seasonal 2-course meal; you should contact the provider ahead of time to discuss any dietary needs, as they aim to accommodate.

Can I switch the last winery to a gin or beer tasting?
Absolutely, you can choose to swap out the last winery for Four Pillars Gin or Watts River Brewery, for a small additional fee per person. Just contact the provider to confirm availability.

How long are the tastings at each stop?
Most stops allow for around an hour of tastings, enough to sample a variety of wines, spirits, or beers and soak up the scenery.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers all tastings, a gourmet 2-course lunch with a glass of wine, transportation in a comfortable minibus, and visits to all scheduled venues.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the maximum number of participants is 20, which helps keep the experience intimate and relaxed.

Do I need to be concerned about the weather?
The tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly and be prepared for the weather conditions on the day.

Is this tour good for first-time wine tasters?
Yes, guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making it a welcoming experience for beginners as well as seasoned wine lovers.

What about flies or heat?
In summer, you might find flies in Australia, and it can get quite hot and sunny. Bring insect repellent and sun protection if needed.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, this tour is adult-only, focusing on wine, spirits, and chocolate tastings.

How far in advance should I book?
Since the group size is limited and the tour is popular, booking a few weeks ahead is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

This Melbourne Yarra Valley Wine Tour offers a thoughtfully curated day that balances wine tasting, delicious food, and the fun of discovering spirits or craft beers. It’s a fantastic pick for those wanting a stress-free, informative, and sociable experience with stunning scenery and expert guides. While it’s not suited for kids or those with certain mobility needs, adults looking for a relaxed, high-quality trip will find much to enjoy here.

Whether you’re in Melbourne for a few days or a local looking to explore the surrounds, this tour provides a comprehensive taste of what the Yarra Valley has to offer—beautiful landscapes, excellent wines, and memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: