Yarra Valley Grazing Tour Wine, Cheese, Gin, Pizza from Melbourne

If you’re thinking about hopping on a day trip from Melbourne into the lush surrounds of the Yarra Valley, a Grazing Tour like this one from Go West Tours might just be worth considering. While we haven’t personally joined, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a clear picture of a relaxed, flavour-packed experience that combines scenic views with a solid mix of tastings and local stories.

What really catches our eye is the inclusive nature of the tastings—all are covered in the price, which means no surprises, and the small-group feel promises more personal attention and comfy conversations. Plus, the variety of stops—from wineries and cheese farms to a gin distillery and chocolate factory—ensures there’s something for all who loves good food, drinks, and a bit of exploring.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite full, with around 9 hours packed with stops and activities. While the itinerary offers a well-rounded taste of what the Yarra Valley has to offer, it might feel rushed if you prefer slow, unhurried sightseeing. Still, for those who enjoy a busy day with lots of variety, this could be a perfect fit.

This tour seems best suited for foodies and drink enthusiasts who want to see the region without the fuss of planning. It’s a good pick for couples, friends, or small groups looking to enjoy a mix of scenic views, some educational moments, and plenty of tastings—all wrapped up in a friendly, well-organized package.

Key Points

• All tastings are included in the price, avoiding any hidden costs.
• Small-group tours make for a more intimate and personalized experience.
• The itinerary features a balanced mix of wine, cheese, gin, pizza, and chocolate, ideal for those who love variety.
• Transport with onboard Wi-Fi keeps you connected and relaxed during the day.
• The tour is around 9 hours long, packed but well-paced according to reviews.
• The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness.

The Details of the Yarra Valley Grazing Tour

What This Tour Offers

This is a full-day adventure from Melbourne designed to showcase the best of the Yarra Valley’s food and drink scene. For around $135, you get a lot of value: all tastings, transport, and a guide who keeps the day running smoothly. The tour is limited to around 24 travelers, which helps keep things intimate and manageable.

Transportation and Comfort

You’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi—a small but appreciated touch that lets you share photos or check messages en route. The pickup is offered from selected hotels, making things easy and hassle-free. The day begins early, with a 8:00 am start, and the journey is roughly 9 hours long.

The Stops and Highlights

Rochford Wines

The tour kicks off at Rochford Wines, where a guided wine tasting awaits. This is a chance to learn proper wine tasting techniques—think swirling, sniffing, and savoring—while soaking in stunning views from the winery. Several reviews mentioned the wines are of high quality, and some guests enjoyed the sweet wines, despite the overall dry selection. The guide is praised for being friendly and knowledgeable, helping you appreciate the nuances of cool-climate wines.

Coldstream Dairy

Next, you’ll visit a family-run dairy farm for a cheese platter. This is a highlight for many, who love tasting authentic cheeses while experiencing the farm’s rustic charm. Reviewers rave about the cheeses, and some have even mentioned petting farm animals, adding a bit of extra charm.

Stag Lane Farm Distillery

The gin tasting at Stag Lane is a standout. Award-winning spirits are crafted from local botanicals, and the guided tasting explains the stories behind each spirit. One reviewer noted the distillery’s passion for their craft and the unique flavors infused with fresh herbs. It’s a fun and educational stop, especially if you’re interested in spirits beyond wine.

Healesville

The charming town of Healesville offers a quick break, with a complimentary coffee or hot beverage. Guests enjoy wandering its boutique shops, cellar doors, and food stores—it’s a relaxed pit stop that adds a bit of local flavor.

Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery

The tour wraps up with a chocolate tasting—a crowd favorite. Watching chocolatiers at work and sampling handcrafted chocolates is a delicious way to end the day. Many visitors found it to be a decadent and memorable experience, with some discovering new favorite flavors.

The Food and Drink Experience

Throughout the day, you’ll indulge in a gourmet cheese board, a wood-fired pizza at the distillery, and local coffee or hot beverages. The inclusion of a pizza stop, paired with gin, adds a fun, informal element to the day, breaking up the more traditional tastings.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys tasting a variety of local food and drinks and values a well-organized, small-group environment, this tour checks many boxes. It’s particularly great if you like learning about the region’s artisan producers and want a relaxed way to see a beautiful part of Victoria. Families with older children may find it suitable, especially since the tour involves tastings and some walking, but note that the minimum drinking age is 18.

The Experience from the Reviews

Feedback consistently highlights the friendly, knowledgeable guides—notably Mel, Michael, and Chris—who make the day engaging and fun. Reviewers mention the stunning landscapes, the delicious quality of the tastings, and the balance of activities. Many say it’s a great way to experience the Yarra Valley without the hassle of planning.

Some reviews mention the tour feeling slightly rushed, given the number of stops, but most appreciate the well-paced schedule and the chance to experience diverse tastes in one day. The Wi-Fi on board gets special mention, with travelers appreciating being able to share their experiences in real-time.

The Sum Up

This Yarra Valley Grazing Tour offers a strong package for those wanting to sample the region’s best wines, cheeses, spirits, and chocolates—all in one manageable day. It’s especially suited for food and drink fans who enjoy a mix of activities and a relaxed, social atmosphere. The small-group setting and friendly guides make it more personal and engaging, helping you learn and taste without feeling like just another tourist.

While it’s a relatively full day and might be busy for some, the variety and quality of stops make it a worthwhile choice if you want an authentic taste of the Yarra Valley. The included tastings and smooth organization mean you’re paying for a seamless experience that takes the stress out of exploring on your own.

If you’re after a delicious, fun, and educational way to enjoy Victoria’s natural beauty and local produce, this tour is a solid option. Just be ready for a day packed with flavor, gorgeous scenery, and plenty of stories from guides who clearly love what they do.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transport from Melbourne is included, with air conditioning and Wi-Fi onboard for your comfort and connectivity.

What’s the approximate duration?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning in the evening, giving you a full day of exploring.

Are all tastings included in the price?
Absolutely. The ticket covers all tastings—wine, cheese, gin, and chocolate—as well as a cheese platter, pizza, and hot beverages.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund if you cancel within this window.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour has a minimum age of 18 due to alcohol tastings, but older teens might enjoy the scenery and some stops, like the chocolate factory.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable clothes suited to walking and possibly mild weather. Some stops involve outdoor areas, so a hat or jacket could be helpful.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
The tour description doesn’t specify, but since all tastings are included, it’s best to check directly with the provider if you have special dietary needs.

What’s the group size like?
The tour caps at 24 travelers, fostering a small, friendly atmosphere.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently praise guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make the day enjoyable.

What is the cost relative to the experience?
At around $135, the tour offers a lot of value with multiple tastings, transportation, and engaging stops, especially given the high praise from past guests.

If you’re after a day that combines scenic beauty with a good dose of local flavors, this Yarra Valley Grazing Tour seems like a well-rounded pick. Just remember, it’s a busy day, but a tasty one—perfect for those eager to sample the region’s best offerings in one satisfying adventure.