The Yarra Valley is less than 1 hour by car from the centre of Melbourne. This area is the main hub of many Australian popular and renowned wineries.
The cool climate in the Yarra Valley is ideal for the vineyards of the region. Especially the Pinot Noir plantation. which accounts for 29% of its production. And Chardonnay which accounts for 25% of the total production of the area. And most importantly (to me), the cool climate also produces award-winning sparkling wines!
The Yarra Valley is known for producing some of the top red and white wines in the world. This is the oldest wine-producing region in Victoria.
Grab a your friends and let’s jump straight to the top wineries in The Yarra Valley!
Rochford Wines
Rochford Wines is a large winery, with both an outdoor and indoor restaurant and cellar door.
This epic winery has held large concerts and events in the past, including many festivals and high profile artists like Stevie Nicks, Elton John, Garbage, Blondie, Elvis Costello and many more.
Rochford Wines is the ideal spot for large lunch groups and is easily located in the centre of the Yarra Valley. In addition to wine tastings, Rochford also offers Gin Tastings and platters.
Punt Road Winery
Punt Road Winery is a family owned winery and vineyard, producing a range of wines including chardonnay, pinot gris, pinot noir, merlot, shiraz, and cabernet sauvignon.
The staff are friendly and knowledgeable here, and the small area is perfect to relax and taste some wines at this boutique winery.
Oakridge Wines
There is a cozy cellar door and a large outdoor terrace at Oakridge Wines, where you can sit and enjoy the many wines from the cellar. Enjoy a glass of wine and delicious cheese platter and gaze at the stunning gardens of the seven acre winery.
Pair the estate’s excellent wines with dinner at the region’s wine restaurant. After browsing the winery’s extensive and delicious wine list, you can enjoy a hearty meal at this popular Oakridge Restaurant.
Coldstream Hills
Coldstream Hills is owned by James and Suzanne Halliday, who began the winery in 1985.
Using both traditional and modern winemaking techniques the selection here focuses mainly on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. There’s also some Shiraz, Sauv Blanc, and Cab Sauv included for variety in their extensive range.
With stunning views and elegant style, this winery is a must to add to your list. Adding a cheese box is recommended!
De Bortoli Wines
De Bortoli Wines offer a wide range of tasting options at their Yarra Valley winery, as well as restaurant and wildlife experiences.
With impeccable service and delicious food and wines, De Bortoli is one to add to your list. They offer premium wine tasting and matching, with Italian inspired food overlooking the stunning view. Yes please!
This large family owned winery and estate is famously known for private wine experiences, as well as home delivery both overseas and in Australia.
Note, there’s even a playground if you bring the kids!
Yarra Valley, Victoria
Yileena Park
Another top rated winery in the Yarra Valley is Yileena Park, which specialize in smoked French oak products, aged red wine, and Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Merlot Rose.
This winery is also family owned, and is known for the lovely surroundings and personal service. Try the smoked cheeses if that’s your thing!
Seville Estate
Seville Estate is a little off the beaten track, but well worth it. One of the best things to note regarding these wines is that they are fermented using indigenous yeasts.
The restaurant, Cellar Door, and Accommodation at Seville Estate are next level, alongside stunning gardens.
Note, there is also a pool if you book the accommodation in summer!
St Huberts Wines
St Huberts Wines main wine to offer is Cab Sauvignon, as well as other cool climate wines Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Roussanne. Providing Complimentary wine tastings while gazing over the peaceful gardens here makes this winery a truly unique experience.
Note, try the rose or sparkling here too!
Yering Station
Yering Station is famously known as Victoria’s first vineyard, which was planted in 1838.
Enjoy the epic views at Yering Station, before arriving at the Cellar Door, where you’ll see a world of gourmet regional delicacies.
Yering is a sizeable winery with stunning views. The wines here mostly feature Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Shiraz.
Founded in 1973 by Bailey Carrodus, Yarra Yering made Sarah Crowe the first woman to receive the Winemaker of the Year award. Yarra Yering won the 2017 Best Small Cellar Door from Gourmet Traveler Wine.
Yering Station Winery, Victoria
Domaine Chandon
Domaine Chandon Winery is my utlimate first choice of winery to visit in the Yarra Valley. The stunning design, beautiful scenery, wine tastings and service are all a memorable experience.
Domaine Chandon is a great place to visit in the Yarra Valley for French-style food and wine. It offers wine tastings, lunches, guided tours of the beautiful gardens, and premises for weddings and private events.
Try the sparkling wine flight in a Garden Party tent!
Conclusion
Visiting the Yarra Valley is a great day out, whether you’re with a group, significant other or on a group tour from Melbourne. There are at least 80 wineries to choose from in the Yarra Valley. This list is only the beginning of some of the ore popular vineyards to try if you have never visited the area before.
I’d love to hear any other winery recommendations in the Yarra Valley!
