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

Thinking about a day trip from Melbourne that balances wine, food, and charming scenery? This comprehensive Yarra Valley tour offers a well-rounded experience, blending tastings at renowned wineries with fantastic food and optional spirits or beer adventures. It’s a popular choice for adults seeking a relaxed yet engaging escape into Victoria’s famed cool-climate wine region.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the carefully selected wineries deliver a diverse taste of boutique and acclaimed producers. Second, the gourmet 2-course lunch at Soumah winery gives a genuine feel for local cuisine. Third, the flexibility to switch the final winery for a gin distillery or brewery ensures you can tailor your experience. But, as with any day trip, the strict early start and duration might be a consideration for some. This tour shines for those who appreciate good wine, lively guides, and thoughtful, all-inclusive experiences.

Good To Know

• Expertly curated wineries provide a mix of boutique and well-known labels for a well-rounded tasting experience.
• Gourmet 2-course lunch with a glass of wine fosters both relaxation and socializing.
• Flexible options to switch the last stop to either Four Pillars Gin or Watts River Brewery add personalization.
• Comfortable transportation in a modern bus with a small group size enhances the experience.
• Authentic guides bring local knowledge, humor, and friendliness that elevate the tour.
• Sweet finale at the Yarra Valley Chocolate & Ice-Cream Factory caps off the day perfectly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Yarra Valley Tour

If you’re after a full day of relaxation, exploration, and indulgence, this Yarra Valley tour might just be what you’re looking for. From the moment you meet your guide at Arts Centre Melbourne, you’re set for an 8.5-hour adventure filled with stunning scenery, palate-pleasing tastings, and plenty of laughs. The tour is exclusively for adults, making it a great choice if you prefer a mature, laid-back vibe.

Three things we love about this experience are the quality of the winery visits, the personalized lunch experience, and the option to include spirits or craft beers. The guides have a reputation for being knowledgeable and fun, adding a personal touch you won’t find with every tour. However, the early start (meeting at 8:45 am) and the full-day commitment might not suit everyone. But if you’re a wine lover or enjoy discovering local spirits, this trip suits those who want a curated, hassle-free day out.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at Arts Centre Melbourne Spire, where you’ll meet your guide near the café “Protagonist” at 8:45 am. The modern, clean minibus comfortably seats up to 20 passengers, creating an intimate atmosphere for the day. The journey from Melbourne to Yarra Valley takes approximately 75 minutes, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy scenic views.

First Winery: Yering Station

Your first stop is Yering Station, a historic producer known for its classic cool-climate wines. Expect a one-hour tasting session, where you’ll sample a variety of wines while soaking in beautiful vineyard vistas. Reviewers mention the quality of tastings here, and many appreciate the chance to learn about local varietals in a relaxed setting.

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Second Stop: Soumah Winery and Lunch

Next, the group heads to Soumah, a stunning winery with a reputation for both wine and food. Here, you’ll enjoy a shared antipasto platter followed by an individual main course—a highlight for many. Included with the meal is a glass of wine, making the experience feel more special. Reviewers frequently mention the delicious food and the opportunity to mingle with fellow travelers, thanks to the communal dining style.

Third Winery: Helen & Joey Estate

After lunch, you’ll visit Helen & Joey Estate, a boutique winery known for its welcoming vibe and quality wines. Expect a one-hour tasting that showcases some of the region’s best offerings. Guests often note the friendly atmosphere and the chance to discover lesser-known but exceptional wines.

Fourth Stop Options: Personalize Your Experience

Here’s where the tour shines—you can choose to switch out the fourth winery for a spirits or beer experience:

• Four Pillars Gin Distillery (available 7 days a week): Enjoy a generous tasting flight of four unique gins with a mixer of your choice.
• Watts River Brewery (Thur-Mon): Sample four core craft beers, perfect for beer lovers.

Reviews highlight how these options add a fun twist and a chance to try local spirits or brews you might not find elsewhere.

Final Stop: Yarra Valley Chocolate & Ice-Cream Factory

The day wraps up with a sweet visit to the Chocolate & Ice-Cream Factory. Here, guests indulge in self-serve treats and often buy gifts for loved ones. The reviews mention this as a perfect, relaxing finale after a day of tasting.

Why the Experience Delivers Great Value

This tour offers an all-inclusive package that covers transport, tastings, a gourmet lunch, and entry fees—making it a straightforward way to enjoy the region without unexpected costs. Prices are balanced against the quality of wineries, the lunch, and the guide’s expertise. Many reviewers comment on the excellent value for money, especially considering the premium tastings and the personalized service.

Quality of Guides and Experience

Multiple reviews praise guides like Posi, Stefan, and Karen for their humor, knowledge, and friendliness. Their ability to balance informative commentary with a relaxed vibe enhances the entire day. Guests mention the guides’ local insights and storytelling as key highlights.

Transportation and Group Size

The use of a modern, comfortable minibus and a small group size (maximum 20 passengers) make for an intimate experience where everyone feels included. Guests note that the group dynamic often leads to lively conversations and a friendly atmosphere.

Flexibility and Personalization

The option to switch the final stop from a winery to a gin distillery or brewery is a significant plus. It allows for tailored experiences, whether you’re a gin enthusiast or craft beer lover, for just a small extra fee per person.

Food and Tasting Quality

The lunch at Soumah receives particular praise for its seasonal, well-prepared dishes. The shared antipasto encourages socializing, while the mains satisfy varying tastes. The wine pairings are often described as delicious, adding to the sense of a complete culinary experience.

Authentic Perspectives from Reviews

Many reviewers highlight the guides’ expertise—one raved that Stefan made the day very special with his humor and detailed knowledge, while others appreciated the friendly, approachable attitude of guides like Sean and Karen. Several mention the variety of wineries, noting how each had its own character and offerings, enriching the tasting experience.

The lunch at Soumah is consistently praised, with one reviewer describing it as “spectacular” and another appreciating the great company. The optional spirits or beer tastings are seen as a fun addition, making the day more personalized.

On the downside, some mention that flies in summer can be bothersome, or that the early start might be tough for some. But overall, the positive reviews overwhelmingly highlight the value, variety, and relaxed vibe** of this tour.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Yarra Valley experience is perfect for adults who love wine, spirits, or craft beer and want a convenient, all-inclusive day. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides make it a friendly, engaging choice—especially if you enjoy socializing and trying new beverages. The emphasis on premium tastings and quality food ensures you get good value, whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious beginner.

It’s ideal for those who appreciate a relaxed pace, stunning scenery, and a well-organized itinerary. If you’re seeking a fun, authentic taste of Yarra Valley with some flexibility to include spirits or beer, this tour fits the bill.

FAQ: Practical Questions You Might Have

How long is the trip from Melbourne to Yarra Valley?
It takes approximately 75 minutes in the minibus, providing a comfortable journey to start your day.

Can I switch the last winery stop?
Yes, you can choose to replace the fourth winery with either Four Pillars Gin Distillery or Watts River Brewery for an additional small fee. Contact the tour provider to confirm availability.

What does the lunch include?
You’ll enjoy a seasonal two-course meal—usually shared antipasto followed by an individual main dish—with a glass of wine at Soumah winery.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
You can contact the operator ahead of time to discuss dietary needs. Mains may sometimes be shared, and special requests should be communicated in advance.

Is this tour family-friendly?
No, it’s exclusively for adults, and it’s not suitable for children under 18, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor vineyard visits. Sunscreen and hats are recommended in summer, as it can get hot and sunny.

Are large bags or luggage allowed?
No, luggage or large bags are not permitted on the bus.

The Sum Up

For those craving a well-organized, adult-only day of wine, spirits, good food, and scenic views, this tour offers a compelling package. The expert guides, diverse winery stops, and gourmet lunch make it a standout choice for visitors wanting to experience the Yarra Valley without the hassle of planning. The flexibility to include gin or beer tastings adds a personalized touch, ensuring every guest gets the experience they want.

This tour is best suited for wine lovers, foodies, and social travelers who value quality and authenticity. It’s an excellent way to enjoy Victoria’s renowned wine region with ease, comfort, and plenty of memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby