The Yarra Valley is set in an undulating landscape of rivers, flood plains, pasture and bushland bounded by the hills of the Yarra Ranges. Its beauty is matched by its delicious local produce: cheese, beer, cider, fruits, baked goods and of course, wine. Expect a picturesque gourmet experience!

Overview

The art of wine making began here in 1838, just three years after the official founding of Melbourne. Today the long rows of vines crisscross the valley. More than 80 cellar doors offer you award winning wines, among them some of the best boutique wineries on offer.

The wine

The Yarra Valley is a cool climate wine region, perfect for producing crisp and light Chardonnays and sparkling wines. You will enjoy discussing the comparison to European whites, where the climate and soils are different. Reds are also popular and we will be sure to visit a winery that showcases the best of the valley’s reds—in particular, Pinot Noir. This full flavoured red originated from the Burgundy region in France. Despite the grapes having a reputation of being difficult to grow, they thrived in the Yarra Valley.

Beer and cider

It’s not just wine produced here. Beer production dates back to the early 1800s with the farming of hops. The Valley is also home to Victoria’s oldest cider region. Today several micro-breweries and cider orchards can be visited—discuss your interests with your driver-guide.

Dairy

If choosing to experience the Yarra Valley Dairy, expect farmhouse produce reminiscent of Italy and France. Your visit will begin with a walk past dairy cows, working dogs and machinery to find a rustic shed where the cheese tastings are held.

Diva

Our lunch break will be at the Coombe Yarra Valley, an expansive and beautiful estate once owned by one of the world’s greatest opera singers, Dame Nellie Melba. Nellie trained in Paris and performed globally until her death in 1931. Nellie was the first Australian to gain international recognition and was said to be the most famous woman in the world. Try the dessert, Peach Melba, created by Auguste Escoffier for this famous lady.

Sculpture

If art is high on your agenda, then discuss the option of visiting a bushland sculpture garden while in the Yarra Valley.