Sure, everyone knows the Yarra Valley has incredible wineries. But if you think it’s all just cellar doors and standard tastings, you’re in for a treat. Beyond the usual swirl-and-sip, there’s a whole world of hidden, unexpected, and downright cool experiences waiting for those in the know. Lucky for you, we’re spilling the secrets.
Here are some of the best off-the-beaten-track Yarra Valley wine tasting experiences that go way beyond the standard pour.
1. Private Barrel Tastings at Seville Estate
Tasting wine straight from the bottle? Cute. Tasting it straight from the barrel like a true insider? Now we’re talking. At Seville Estate, you can step into the winemaker’s world and sample wines before they’re even bottled. You’ll learn about the ageing process, taste the difference between barrels, and—let’s be real—feel like a total VIP while doing it.
2. The Underground Cellar at Medhurst Wines
If you love the idea of a hidden speakeasy but wish it involved more wine, Medhurst Wines has you covered. Their underground cellar is like a secret wine cave where you can enjoy an intimate, behind-the-scenes tasting with some of their best drops. It’s exclusive, atmospheric, and feels like something only true wine insiders get to experience.
3. Meet-the-Maker Sessions at Payten & Jones
This isn’t your typical buttoned-up winery experience—Payten & Jones is where things get real. Think urban cellar vibes, experimental wines, and winemakers who actually sit down with you to chat (and maybe even pour an extra generous tasting). If you love natural, small-batch wines and a relaxed, no-BS approach to tasting, this one’s a must.
4. The Wine & Music Pairing Experience at Yering Station
You’ve heard of food and wine pairings, but what about music and wine? Yering Station has taken tasting to a whole new level by matching wines with different music genres to enhance the flavours. It sounds wild, but trust us—sipping a bold Cab Sav while listening to a moody jazz track just hits differently.
5. Helicopter Wine Tours to Levantine Hill
Because why drive when you can fly? If you want the most boujee wine tour imaginable, hop in a helicopter and soar over the Yarra Valley before landing at Levantine Hill for a next-level wine and dining experience. It’s as ridiculous and luxurious as it sounds—perfect for when you want to make an entrance.
6. Cheese & Wine Pairing Masterclass at De Bortoli
Wine and cheese is a classic combo, but De Bortoli takes it to another level with a masterclass in the art of pairing. You’ll learn exactly why that creamy brie makes your Chardonnay sing, or why blue cheese and sweet wine are a match made in heaven. Bonus: you get to eat all the cheese while learning. Win-win.
7. Vineyard Glamping at Yarra Valley’s Best Stays
Who says wine tasting has to end when the cellar doors close? Some of the best wineries now offer luxury glamping experiences so you can literally wake up in the vines. Picture this: sipping wine by the fire, sleeping under the stars, and rolling straight into a morning tasting session without ever leaving the vineyard.
So, if you thought you’d seen it all in the Yarra Valley, think again. Whether you’re tasting straight from the barrel, flying in by helicopter, or pairing wine with jazz, these hidden gems will take your wine tour to a whole new level. Get in touch about your next Yarra Valley Wine Tour and cheers to discovering the unexpected!
