Wine
Best Yarra Valley Wineries
Start planning your next trip to the Yarra Valley – which wineries to visit, where to eat, and where to stay – with this cellar door guide to one of Australia’s most beloved cool climate wine regions.
Are you planning your first visit? As you anticipate the perfect getaway, some questions might arise: How far is Yarra Valley from Melbourne? How many cellar doors does Yarra Valley have? How do you get to Yarra Valley from Melbourne? You’re in the right place – this guide is your key to crafting a truly memorable experience.
This beautiful region is an easy one-hour drive from Melbourne’s bustling CBD – arrive there and you’ll find an almost endless choice of premium wineries, cellars doors, restaurants and exciting experiences to explore and enjoy.
As Victoria’s original wine country, the Yarra Valley is home to over 50 wineries. It features a diversity of terroir and is able to produce a wide range of classic wine styles, but is particularly renowned for its Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Sparkling and innovative savoury Rosé. You can find out more about the wines on offer in our Yarra Valley region guide here.
Bringing your four-legged friend along? There are a number of dog-friendly Yarra Valley wineries to enjoy, including Rochford Estate, De Bortoli, Rob Dolan Wines, and more in our guide below.
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To help make the most of your time in this spectacular cool climate region, we’ve shortlisted some of our favourite wineries that provide great cellar door experiences, as well as some great things to do and places to stay when in the Yarra Valley. Enjoy!
YARRA VALLEY WINERIES MAP
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ROCHFORD WINES
Rochford Wines, famed for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, is the definition of a must-visit Yarra Valley destination.
Located in tranquil and picturesque surrounds, the vineyard and winery incorporate the acclaimed Isabella's Restaurant, cellar door and shop, together with other purpose-built facilities – a conservatory, a pavilion, amphitheatre and lakeside deck - to service fabulous outdoor concerts, summer food and wine festivals, and a host of other functions and events.
A genuine showcase for the wider region, the best way to experience its acclaimed wines is with an estate wine tasting at the superbly-appointed cellar door. Rochford Wines is also dog-friendly, offering dining areas for visitors who have brought along their dogs!
Shop Rochford Wines
878-880 Maroondah Highway, Coldstream
Open daily 10am-5pm Mon-Fri, Sat-Sun 10am-6pm
Discover more about Rochford Wines
OAKRIDGE WINES
While, the Oakridge’s vineyards and winery were established back in 1978, their contemporary cellar door was opened in 2013. With its sleek industrial lines, the striking, architect-designed building is in bold contrast to the surrounding vines.
Step inside to sample a superb range of award-winning wines including Pinot Gris, Semillon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Cabernet and more. Treat yourself to lunch at Oakridge’s one-hatted restaurant where chefs Matt Stone and Jo Barrett serve seasonal menus based on fresh ingredients from the Oakridge kitchen garden, as well as wild produce they discover on foraging and fishing excursions around the region.
Shop Oakridge Wines
864 Maroondah Highway, Coldstream
Open daily, 10am to 5pm
Visit the Oakridge Website
COOMBE FARM
The enchanting Coombe Farm cellar door is set within the grounds of the historic Melba House, constructed in 1912 by famed opera singer Dame Nellie Melba. As Tasting Panellist and wine show judge, Trent Mannell says, “Coombe Farm is a remarkable winery and a destination with a real sense of history.”
The exquisite gardens, lovely restaurant, and Melba Gallery are not to missed. Melba’s Morning Tea is available from 9:30am Saturdays and Sundays, while a special high tea experience is at 2:30pm every Wednesday and Saturday through June and August. The estate-grown, limited production wines are elegantly varietal and regionally expressive.
673 Maroondah Highway, Coldstream
Open 9:30am to 5pm Tuesday to Thursday, 9:30am to 3:30pm Friday and Saturday, 9:30am to 5pm Sunday and public holidays
Discover more about Coombe Farm
SOUMAH
Located down a country lane in the dress circle of the Warramate foothills, the Soumah cellar door offers, not only a fantastic tasting experience, but also spectacular views of the vineyards and the surrounding Warramate Hills.
“Our focus at Soumah is on making wine with the charm of Northern Italy, but with the provenance of the majestic Yarra Valley,” says Soumah director, Brett Butcher. “We’re best known for our Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and are also gaining a good reputation for Viognier and Syrah, plus our passion for the Northern Italian varieties with our Nebbiolo, Brachetto, Pinot Grigio and Savarro (Savagnin).
Along with its casual tastings, Somuah has a premium wine rooms where you’re treated to six exclusive samples selected from their reserve quality, limited production and museum release wines. You can also enjoy a glass of wine or two at their restaurant, Trattoria d’Soumah which serves up excellent Northern Italian cuisine like antipasti, pasta, wood fired pizza, cheese and dessert, seven days a week, with extra options offered on Saturdays and Sundays.
Shop Soumah wines
18 Hexham Rd, Gruyere
Open daily, from 10am to 5pm
Visit the Soumah Website
DOMAINE CHANDON
Every Aussie Sparkling wine lover needs to experience the joie de vivre of Domaine Chandon. In the mid 1980s, leading Champagne house Moet & Chandon established Domaine Chandon, considering the Yarra Valley as a leading location for the cool climate Sparkling grape varieties of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier.
The stunning cellar door and winery melds traditional Champagne architecture with modern Australian design. Its cavernous 72,000 bottle climate-controlled riddling hall, stunning colonnade wall and restaurant overlooking their Green Point vineyard are all world class. As of course are the wines, including the Chandon Brut that was awarded Best Australian Sparkling Wine at the 2018 Champagne & Sparkling Wines World Championships.
The terrific self-guided tour of the winery allows visitors to examine up close the full winemaking process from the expansive winery, barrel and riddling halls, all with informative interactive guides.
727 Maroondah Highway, Coldstream
Open daily, from 11am
Visit the Domaine Chandon Website
GIANT STEPS
Giant Steps is no stranger to change. Now completely separated from its once-sibling label, Innocent Bystander, and in response to the challenges of the COVID era, it has created a pop-up cellar door experience just down the road from its usual Healesville digs.
Temporarily located on the mezzanine floor of Habituel Bakers and Coffee Roasters, tastings include all current vintage Giant Steps wines. These limited release, single vineyard wines have been stored in Giant Steps’ own temperature-controlled barrel hall and highlight the potential longevity of the wine.
While described as a pop-up, the cellar door is certainly equipped beyond what that might suggest! Modern, elegant and relaxed, it’s most certainly worth a visit to experience some of the best wines being produced anywhere in the Yarra Valley.
Shop Giant Steps wines
Level 1, 314 Maroondah Highway, Healesville
Open daily, 11am-4pm
Visit the Giant Steps Website
DOMINIQUE PORTET
When you visit the gorgeous Dominique Portet Winery, you’ll be enjoying wines crafted by 9th generation winemaker Dominique Portet and his son Ben, who is the family’s 10th generation winemaker.
Their cellar door is absolutely charming with a terrace cafe overlooking the rolling vineyards. Take time to sit and relax while sampling their exceptional Rosé, Sparkling, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon.
It’s in the Bistro though where the winery’s Bordeaux roots shine through – a superb opportunity to enjoy French family classics in the heart of the Yarra Valley!
Shop Dominique Portet wines
870 Maroondah Highway, Coldstream
Open daily, 10am-5pm
Visit the Dominique Portet Website
ROB DOLAN WINES
A Yarra Valley winemaking stalwart of over 25 years, Rob Dolan launched his label in 2010 and in 2014 was awarded the James Halliday Best New Winery. His farmhouse cellar door combines welcoming spaces where you can taste Rob’s premium wines, plus sample the delicious Stone & Crow cheeses that are matured at the winery by cheesemaker and founder Jack Holman.
Enjoy a platter of local produce including pâté, terrine, olives, and a fantastic range of Rob Dolan pickles, pastes, relishes and jellies, or undertake a guided tasting with a Rob Dolan Wine Specialist.
This is also very much a dog-friendly winery. In fact, their own dog Merlot has been promoted to Chief Cuddle Officer. You’re welcome to bring your own furry friend to this Yarra Valley Cellar Door.
Located in Warrandyte, just 30 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, this charming cellar door makes for the perfect start or conclusion to any visit to the Yarra Valley.
Shop Rob Dolan Wines
21-23 Delaneys Road, South Warrandyte
Open daily, 10am to 5pm
Visit the Rob Dolan Wines Cellar Door Website
DE BORTOLI YARRA VALLEY ESTATE
One of Australia’s iconic wine producers, De Bortoli Wines was established in Griffith, NSW in 1928 by Italian immigrant, Vittorio De Bortoli. Even in his wildest dreams, he never imagined he would establish an Australian winemaking dynasty.
The baby of third generation Leanne De Bortoli and her husband Steve Webber (who is De Bortoli’s chief winemaker), the Yarra Valley vineyard was established in 1987. The vineyard has produced excellent wines with De Bortoli winning the coveted Jimmy Watson Trophy in 1997.
The cellar door is set in a stunning location with vines in every direction. Along with their wide range of wines, what makes De Bortoli a particularly nice winery to visit is the marriage of wine with cheese. The extensive selection of local and imported cheeses in this friendly cellar door is outstanding and perfectly complements De Bortoli’s excellent cool climate Yarra Valley wines and those from their other regions.
Dogs are welcome to enjoy the lawns and garden on a lead. There are outdoor tables at the cellar door where you can enjoy wine and cheese platters with your dog by your side.
Upstairs, The Locale Restaurant offers an authentic Italian dining experience with the menu reflecting the best local seasonal produce and featuring veggies from their garden, homemade pasta and delicious authentic Italian risotto.
Shop De Bortoli, Yarra Valley wines
Open daily, 10am-5pm
58 Pinnacle Lane, Dixons Creek
Discover more about De Bortoli Wines
YERING STATION
No visit to the Yarra Valley is truly complete without a visit to Yering Station. This winery is a destination in and of itself with an exceptional architect-designed restaurant and bar, historic cellar door, art space, underground barrel room, and local produce store – all set on stunning grounds.
The first vineyard in Victoria was established on this site in 1838, and that history is enshrined in the old winery that now serves as the cellar door and gallery. Tastings allow you to enjoy the excellent range of wines (including Chardonnay, Rosé, Shiraz, Pinot Noir and of course, Sparkling wines) crafted by senior winemaker Brendan Hawker and his talented team in a relaxed and beautiful environment.
Set within stunning architecture, Yering’s signature restaurant overlooks expansive views of the Yarra Ranges with a menu showcasing the best produce the Yarra Valley has to offer, casting the spotlight on small, local growers and staying true to Yering Station’s ethos of understated elegance.
38 Melba Hwy, Yarra Glen
Open daily Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am to 6pm
Discover more about Yering Station wines
TARRAWARRA ESTATE
“There are so many great cellar doors in the Yarra Valley, but TarraWarra must be on your shortlist,” says Trent Mannell, Tasting Panellist. “Situated on 400 hectares of prime land beside the Yarra river, TarraWarra’s wines are meticulously grown, handpicked, vinified and aged on the estate,” he says.
The spectacular TarraWarra Estate cellar door is built into the earth of the wineries’ rolling hillside and is a stunning architecturally-designed place to sample their premium-quality wines. Serving delicious dishes inspired by the estate’s kitchen garden and prepared by head chef Mark Ebbels, the renowned restaurant further cements TarraWarra as an exceptional Yarra Valley winery experience.
This is another Yarra Valley dog-friendly winery - they have a beautiful deck built around a cluster of pepper trees that overlooks the property. It’s quite a special and lovely place to relax with your dog and a glass of wine.
Shop Tarrawarra Estate wines
311 Healesville-Yarra Glen Road, Yarra Glen
Open Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 5pm
Discover more about Tarrawarra Estate
YERING FARM
Owned and operated by Alan and Vicki Johns, Yering Farm is located on the original site of the Yeringa Vineyards once owned by the Deschamps family in the 1800s. The Johns family, who are fifth generation orchardists, resurrected the property in 1980 with the replanting of the 30-acre vineyard starting in 1989.
The original Yeringa Vineyard sign adorns the entrance of the rustic cellar door and the whole property exudes charm and commanding views of the Yarra Valley. All of Yering Farm wines, including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, are produced on site from estate grown fruit. Enjoy a tasting and a Yering Farm 'Pruner's Platter’ by the fire or out on the large verandah where you can take in the gorgeous views.
You can also bring your own picnic or use the BBQ facilities for a small fee (bookings essential) – or stay the night at the sumptuously appointed The George Homestead , a self-contained farmhouse located on the grounds!
19-21 St Huberts Rd, Yering
Open 7 days a week from 10am to 5pm
Visit the Yering Farm Website
PUNT ROAD WINES
The Punt Road Wines cellar door is the perfect place to sample a fine selection of single vineyard, estate grown wines. The Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, and Chardonnay, in particular, are all exceptional. Enjoy a cheese platter, a glass or a full wine flight, chat with their team and experience why they spend every day here.
Alternatively, you can relax outdoors on the back-garden lawn with a Gundowring ice cream or try your hand at bocce. Tasting Panel Co-Chair Adam Walls loves visiting the Punt Road cellar door “It has such a warm and welcoming feel and the quality of both the wine and cider on offer is very high!”
10 St Huberts Road, Coldstream
Open daily 10am to 5pm
Discover more about Punt Road Wines
YARRA YERING
Founded by the good doctor Bailey Carrodus and inspired not only by his horticultural and winemaking studies, but also the wines he encountered while studying Philosophy at Oxford University, Yarra Yering quickly gained a reputation for quality following its founding in 1969.
After Dr Carrodus’ death in 2008, the winery and its vineyards were purchased by two businessmen, both enormous fans, who have maintained the iconic vineyard with the same philosophy. The Yarra Yering Cellar Door, located in the house of Dr Carrodus, lies nestled amid the vineyards, a cosy setting steeped in Australian wine history.
Awarded Best Small Cellar Door from Gourmet Wine Traveller in 2017 and 2020, visitors can choose from a range of tasting flights – or stay a night or two in the Yarra Yering Homestead, set amidst the vines with incredible views across the Yarra Valley.
Shop Yarra Yering
4 Briarty Rd, Gruyere
Open daily, 10am-5pm
Visit the Yarra Yering website
TOOLANGI
Sheltered by the Toolangi State Forest on one side in the northern Yarra Valley region of Dixons Creek, Toolangi has proven itself a special site for growing grapes – particularly Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Shiraz. First planted in 1995, it quickly established itself as a winery to watch.
Purchased in 2017 by the owner and CEO of Rochford, Helmut Konecsny, Toolangi is now considered a sister vineyard to that eminent winery, and has a permanent cellar door now on the grounds of the Rochford Estate at the il Vigneto Pizzeria – the best spot to sit and sample a glass of two while taking in the view from the deck!
Shop Toolangi wines
878 Maroondah Highway, Coldstream
Open Friday 5.30pm-9.30pm, Saturday 11.30am-9.30pm and Sunday 11.30am-5.30pm
Visit the Toolangi website
HELEN'S HILL
Founded in 1997 by the Nalder and McIntosh families, Helen’s Hill is the realisation of a dream shared by two farming clans with wine running deep in their veins. Set in the Coldstream district of the Yarra Valley, this single vineyard estate is the source for two very distinct wine labels, Helen’s Hill, and the drink-now wines of Ingram Road. Their cellar door keeps things simple yet suitably indulgent, with tastings from both ranges available along with shared plates crafted from locally sourced produce, yours to enjoy from the deck overlooking the vines.
16 Ingram Road, Lilydale, 3140
Open Thursday to Sunday, 11am to 5pm – bookings essential.
Visit the Helen’s Hill website
THINGS TO DO IN THE YARRA VALLEY
What are the best places to visit in Yarra Valley? In addition to its abundance of wineries and cellar doors, Yarra Valley is absolutely bursting with things to do and places to see. Here are a couple of our favourite ways to pass the time whenever we’re in the neighbourhood.
Healesville Sanctuary
Explore a bushland haven for Aussie wildlife, just an hour from Melbourne. Wander through the tranquil tracks and meet over 200 species of Australian animals, including the iconic koalas, kangaroos, platypus, dingoes, wombats and emus in their natural surrounds. Learn more at the Healesville Sanctuary website.
Sugarloaf Reservoir Park
Tucked away in Christmas Hills, Sugarloaf is a tranquil setting for a picnic or a stroll near the reservoir shores, offering wonderful views across the water. Some of the more popular things to do at Sugarloaf are fishing, sailing, walking and picnicking. For more information visit the Parks Victoria website.
TarraWarra Museum of Art
Since opening in 2003, the TarraWarra Museum of Art has become recognised as a cultural jewel of the Yarra Valley, providing visitors with an enjoyable and inspiring experience which combines stunning architecture with the very best of Australian and international modern and contemporary art. Learn about its latest exhibits at the Museum website.
Sunrise balloon flight with Global Ballooning Australia
Start your Yarra Valley day with a sunrise hot air balloon experience with Global Ballooning Australia. Take in the rolling hills, green landscapes and kangaroos feeding on breakfast as you fly over them during sunrise. After your flight, enjoy a sumptuous Sparkling breakfast – a smashing way to start the day. Make your booking at the Global Ballooning website.
Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery
Set on 16 hectares, Yarra Valley Chocolaterie Ice Creamery combines striking architecture with a unique food experience amidst picturesque valley views. The Chocolaterie welcomes you with free entry and abundant free chocolate tastings, displays of thousands of premium chocolates and large viewing windows where you can see European chocolatiers at work handcrafting creations. Discover its tasty goodness at the Chocolaterie website.
WHERE TO EAT IN THE YARRA VALLEY
If you’re looking for more dining options than one of the many winery restaurants in the Yarra Valley, satisfy your hunger with some of these top spots to eat!
Above: Fondata 1872
- Fondata 1872 – A revival of the iconic Weller’s, this rustic Italian restaurant in Kangaroo Ground is a true jewel of the Yarra Valley.
- The Stables – The Yarra Valley’s most celebrated boutique restaurant, the Stables at Stones offers a seasonal menu to die for, showcasing the region’s freshest produce.
- The Independent – Located in Main Street Gembrook, the retro-industrial décor of this stunning eatery provides the backdrop to a delicious Argentinian-inspired menu.
- Herd Bar – Set amidst the thriving village of Healesville, Herd Bar’s contemporary architecture and incredible menu would be welcome in any big city!
- Dixons Creek Bar & Grill – Casual dining at its very best, and a sensational spot to wind up your weekend exploring the Yarra Valley!
WHERE TO STAY IN THE YARRA VALLEY
No doubt about it, the Yarra Valley has so much to offer that even a long weekend isn’t enough to take it all in! Take the time to enjoy it at your own pace with a stay at one of the many boutique hotels the region has to offer. While many of the wineries listed above have accommodation options available – such as the Chateau Yering Hotel, the George at Yering Farm and more, there’s no shortage of alternatives available. Here are some of our favourites.
YARRA VALLEY LODGE
Escape, relax and unwind in the elegant environs of the Yarra Valley Lodge, a tranquil yet sophisticated retreat fashioned after a classic country lodge. Set on the ground of Heritage Estate, it offers a harmonious connection to the lush surroundings of gardens, lawns and pathways that wend through the hills and valleys. Book your stay now at the Yarra Valley Lodge website.
YERING GORGE COTTAGES
Experience the mystical early morning mist of the Yarra Valley in delightful cottage-style accommodation on the grounds of the Eastern Golf Club – a stunning rural retreat set against the backdrop of the Christmas Hills and Dividing Ranges, and an ideal spot to stay for those looking to take in sunrise with a hot air balloon adventure. Book your stay now at the Yering Gorge Cottages website.
CHEEKY FOX RETREAT
Situated on 50 private acres with spectacular mountain views, Cheeky Fox retreat offers a relaxing getaway for family and friends. A large, six-bedroom home with a library, private cinema and solar-heated swimming pool, you almost won’t want to leave. Better still, they offer private wine tours directly from the property! Book your stay today at the Cheeky Fox Retreat website.
KANGAROO RIDGE RETREAT
A down-to-earth experience that will put you on Cloud 9, Kangaroo Ridge Retreat’s luxurious cabins offer the ideal opportunity to get away from the kids, settle in, and switch off – with well-stocked hampers and locally-sourced larder letting you explore the food scene of the valley from the comfort of your home away from home. Book your stay today at the Kangaroo Ridge Retreat website.
THE BEST THAT AUSTRALIA’S WINE REGIONS HAVE TO OFFER
Want to see more of what our great wine regions have to offer? Then don’t miss our comprehensive guide to Australia’s Best Wineries and Cellar Doors – from Hunter Valley in the east to Great Southern in the west, it’s the ultimate go-to guide for planning your next wine adventure.
For Wine Selectors Members, make sure to check out our Members Extras offers before planning your next trip, and discover what fantastic offers are available for your wine region destination!
Want to taste the best of Yarra Valley wine in the comfort of home? Order some for yourself, experience some of the finest examples of premium, cool climate winemaking this country has to offer, and save with Wine Selectors.