Which Wineries Should You Visit in the Yarra Valley?
Ask a local where to find good wine near Melbourne and they’ll say, “Just head out to the Yarra.” They’re not wrong. The Yarra Valley is Victoria’s wine-soaked daydream and it’s only an hour out of the city — if the ring road traffic behaves. But which wineries should you visit in the Yarra Valley?
That’s where this comes in. Whether you want a glass of wine in a beautiful setting, a private tasting of big wines or a day trip packed with wine experiences, I’ve done the legwork (and the tasting).
Here’s your no-nonsense, slightly cheeky guide to the best wineries in the Yarra Valley — from cult favourites to the quietly brilliant.
Contents
What to Know About the Valley
The Yarra Valley is Victoria’s oldest wine region, first planted in the 1830s. Today it’s one of Australia’s best vineyard regions for cool-climate wines — pinot noir, chardonnay, sparkling. But don’t pigeonhole it. You’ll find all types of wine here, thanks to valley floor vineyards and higher, cooler elevations.
Besides the wine, the region’s got walking trails, art galleries, Australian wildlife, great food and stunning views. It’s perfect for warmer months or crisp autumn weekends. Plenty of boutique hotels and accommodation options make it more than just a day trip. A well-planned Yarra Valley wine tour can easily turn into a full-blown weekend escape.
Must-Visit Wineries
1. Oakridge Wines
Award-winning vineyard with wine and kitchen gardenl-driven restaurant and celar door with views. Has all the ingredients: a beautiful setting, a range of wines and great food.
Try: 864 Chardonnay. Crisp, elegant and full of citrus.
Why visit? Wine flight followed by cheese platter on the deck. A must-stop on any winery tour to Yarra Valley.
Yarra Yering
Boutique winery with serious winemaking heritage. Powerful wines and a minimalist cellar door.
Try: Dry Red No. 1 — a Bordeaux blend that ages like a good story.
Why visit? Favourite winery for lovers of complex reds.
Dominique Portet
Nine generations of French know how meet Aussie soil here. Pure Yarra — vineyard views and warm hospitality. Great for a relaxed wine tasting.
Try: Fontaine Rosé. Dry, floral and perfect for summer.
Why visit? Boutique wine house with a fresh take on traditional wines. A highlight of most Yarra Valley wine tours.
Giant Steps
Known throughout the wine region, Giant Steps is all about single vineyard, cool climate wines. Add wood fired pizzas and live music and you have a popular spot.
Try: Applejack Pinot Noir. Juicy and spicy with a bit of crunch.
Why visit? Wine bar feel with serious wine tastings. Great for groups on a Yarra Valley wine tour from Melbourne.
Soumah of Yarra Valley
Hidden away, this boutique winery goes Italian and offers something different. Cellar door is casual, vineyard views and chill vibes.
Try: Brachetto Frizzante. Light, fizzy and perfect with a cheese platter.
Why visit? Favourite winery for those looking for something different in a beautiful setting. Great for off-the-beaten-path Yarra Valley wine tours.
Medhurst Wines
Award-winning winery with a focus on small production. Small but stylish cellar door overlooking bushland.
Try: Estate Pinot Noir. Earthy, elegant and made in small batches.
Why visit? Exceptional wine experience in a natural setting, away from the crowds.
Chandon Australia
Big name, big bubbles. This award-winning winery delivers on atmosphere with views, modern architecture and bubbly tastings.
Try: Chandon Vintage Brut.
Why visit? Self guided tour, learn about winemaking heritage then sip a glass of wine on the deck. Iconic inclusion on any Yarra Valley tour from Melbourne.
Payten & Jones
Offbeat, creative and always fun. This Healesville gem mixes street art and wine bar vibes with wines that aren’t afraid to push boundaries.
Try: Valley Vignerons Syrah.
Why visit? One of the best spots for casual wine tastings and to find your new favourite wine.
Innocent Bystander
It’s a hybrid – wine bar, pizza joint and cellar door. Wine flights are great and the vibe is lively.
Try: Pinot Gris. Fresh, fruity and pairs well with anything out of the oven.
Why visit? Great for day trips and bigger groups looking for a fun, approachable wine experience. Relaxed stop on many Yarra Valley wine tours.
Handy Tips for Valley Wine Tour
- Drive or tour? A guided Yarra Valley wine tour from Melbourne takes the stress off. Perfect if you want to try a range of wines safely.
- Book ahead. Award winning wineries book out on weekends. A quick call saves a lot of faff.* Food included. Some cellar doors offer tastings only, others have full kitchens, cheese platters or garden grown produce.
- Art + wine? Visit TarraWarra Museum of Art for a double header.
- Stay overnight. Boutique accommodation in the region makes it easy to extend your visit and visit more of the best wineries.
Stretch Your Legs
Between glasses, take in the sights nearby:
- Redwood Forest near Warburton
- La La Falls walking trail
- Healesville Sanctuary for Australian wildlife
- Local art gallery stops
- Garden walks around Coombe Yarra Valley
The Yarra Valley has it all: award-winning wines, multiple cellar doors and a mix of experiences for every kind of traveller. Whether you want a private tasting, a romantic sip with your partner or a group wine tour, there’s a spot for you. And if you don’t want to drive, there’s a Yarra Valley wine tour with your name on it.
FAQ
What is the Yarra Valley known for?
Pinot noir, chardonnay and world-class sparkling – all thanks to the cool climate.
Can I visit Yarra Valley wineries without a tour?
Yep, but if you’re tasting a few bottles of wine, it’s smart to bring a designated driver or book a tour.
How many wineries can I visit in a day?
Three to four for a relaxed pace. More than that and you won’t enjoy the wine flight by the last stop.
What’s the best time to go?
Autumn and spring are the best for vineyard views and fewer crowds. Summer is busy but great for outdoor food experiences.
Do Yarra Valley wineries serve food?
Many do. From cheese platters to full-blown lunches in kitchen gardens, it’s a foodie’s paradise.