Yarra Valley is a well-respected Australian wine region located on the eastern half of the Port Phillip viticultural zone in the state of Victoria. The Valley is known for its bright, complex wines made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. It is one of Australia’s oldest and most famous wine regions, the earliest Yarra Valley vineyards were planted in 1838.
Discover Yarra Valley Wine Region!
Modern Yarra Valley wines generally include a range of premium red and white table wines. Overall, Chardonnay was the dominant variety here in the recent past, although it has now been surpassed by Pinot Noir. Comparisons between the Yarra Valley and Burgundy are quire common, not only because of their preferred grape varieties, but also because they share a cool climate and undulating topography, interrupted by escarpments.
Also Read: Solve a Murder Mystery on a Wine Train Through Napa Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz are the next most popular grape varieties in Yarra Valley wine portfolio. Cabernet Sauvignon has been sitting comfortably in the region’s vineyards for years, providing many elegant wines. Yarra Valley Shiraz is quite different to that of the Barossa Valley in South Australia, having more in the way of savory spice than forward fruit.
VIDEO: YARRA VALLEY WINE TOUR // Australia
Lying just north of the state capital, Melbourne, the valley is Victoria’s most popular wine destination. Wine tourism is an important industry here, with visitors coming from all over the country, and even the world, to discover why Yarra Valley wines are held in such high regard. In response, the local wineries have established some of Australia’s most glamorous cellar doors and restaurants.
Here are some of the most unique wineries of Yarra Velley you need to Visit
Punt Road
As a family owned vineyard and winery, Punt Road aim to create wines that reflect the heritage of their site, and the independent, creative energy of the Yarra Valley. Winemaker Tim Shand guides the path of fruit from more than 150 acres of estate-grown vineyards. The Punt Road range is always available for tastings. Visitors can try Yarra Valley Dairy cheese platters with local produce or enjoy a Gundowring ice cream in the back garden. Only an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Punt Road is the gateway to the Yarra Valley – the perfect place to begin or end a day experiencing this incredible region.
Balgownie Estate
Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort & Spa is located in the heart of Victoria’s Premiere Wine region; the Yarra Valley, less than an hour from the Melbourne CBD. Balgownie Estate is a 4.5 Star Boutique Luxury Resort offering award-winning Yarra ValleyAccommodation, Restaurant, a Day Spa and On Site activities such as an amazing ballooning adventure above the vineyards.
Yering Farm
At Yering farm, visitors discover the rustic tasting room, a resurrected hay shed beside the lambing nursery and orchard on the farm. Pull up a stool or lean on the worn wooden bar as you are treated to a presentation of boutique wines, all grown and made on site. This is where day trippers will want to spend time and feel at ease. The experience exudes the kind of charm that keeps you chatting and exploring wines.
Domaine Chandon
Domaine Chandon’s traditions hail from grand Champagne house Moët & Chandon but its expertise is firmly planted in Yarra Valley wine country. A visit to the Yarra Valley winemaking home provides the opportunity to experience one of the largest ranges of premium, méthode traditionnelle sparkling wines in the country, along with a dynamic wine tourism offering including a tasting bar, restaurant, lounge bar, educational experiences, tour route, retail boutique, outdoor terraces and a magnificent view of the Yarra Ranges.
Australia’s Most Popular Wine Destination
Visit Australia’s Most Popular Wine Destination
Yarra Valley is located just one hour north of the state capital, Melbourne and offers some of Australia’s finest wines. Plan your own trip or join a one-day tour to discover all it has to offer.