The Yarra Valley is less than an hour’s drive east of the city centre of Melbourne and is home to many of Australia’s most popular and renowned wineries.
The cool climate here is very suitable for the vineyards of the Yarra Valley, especially the Pinot Noir plantation which accounts for 29% of its production, and Chardonnay which accounts for 25% of the total production.
And most importantly (to me!), the cool climate also produces award-winning sparkling wines.
The Yarra Valley has more than 55 first-rate wineries and restaurants and is known for producing some of the best red and white wines in the world. The Yarra Valley is the oldest wine-producing region in Victoria.
Now that you know which wines are the most popular in the Yarra Valley, let’s jump straight to the top wineries in the region.
Here are some of my top wineries to visit, in the Yarra Valley.
10) ROCHFORD WINES
Rochford Wines is a large winery, with an outdoor and indoor restaurant and cellar door.
This winery has held large concerts and events in the past, including many festivals and high profile artists like Stevie, Nicks, Elton John, Garbage, and a whole lot 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.
9) 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 ideal to relax and taste some wines at this boutique winery.
Bonus: There are games outside if you bring your kids!
8) 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. This is a great place to enjoy a glass of wine accompanied by a delicious platter of cheese, while gazing at the stunning gardens and across 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.
7) 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 with some Shiraz, Sauv Blanc, and Cab Sauv and more included for variety in their extensive range.
With stunning views and elegant style, this winery is a must to add to your list. Ensure to add a cheese box to your experience!
6) 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. Wine tasting, wine matching, and Italian inspired food within stunning scenery, 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 a playground if you bring the kids!
5) YILEENA PARK
Yileena Park is another world-class winery in the Yarra Valley, which specializes in aged red wine, smoked French oak products, as well as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Merlot Rose.
This winery is also family owned, and this winery are known for their lovely surroundings and personal service.
Try the smoked cheeses if that your thing!
4) 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!
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3) ST HUBERTS WINES
St Huberts Wines main focus in Cab Sauvignon, as well as other cool climate wines Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, 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!
2) YERING STATION
Yering Station is famously known as Victoria’s first vineyard, which was planted in 1838.
Enjoy the incredible sights and amenities of Yering Station before arriving at the Cellar Door, and as you walk through the cellar door, you’ll find a world of gourmet regional delicacies and spices even before you hit the wines.
A large winery with of course modern styling and stunning views. Yering Station wines mostly feature Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Shiraz.
Founded in 1973 by Bailey Carrodus, one of the pioneers of Australian winemaking, Yarra Yering made Sarah Crowe the first woman to receive the Winemaker of the Year award, a perfect example of broken traditions and trends. Yarra Yering won the 2017 Best Small Cellar Door from Gourmet Traveler Wine.
1) DOMAINE CHANDON
Domaine Chandon Winery is my top winery to visit in the Yarra Valley, due to the design, stunning scenery and total experience.
This winery 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.
Note, try the sparkling wine flight in a Garden Party tent!
