Yarra Valley is home to rolling hills and wineries galore. The Yarra Valley terroir is perfectly suited for growing a variety of wine grapes, making Yarra Valley wine some of the most celebrated in the whole country. If you're looking for some smaller wineries to visit, then the Upper Yarra Valley is the place to be. Whether you're looking for some simple wine tastings in a small cellar door or all-day excursions, then we have some lovely wineries for you. Without further ado, the best wineries in Yarra Valley are:
- Tokar Estate
- De Bortoli Wines
- Marnong Estate
- Balgownie Estate
- Oakridge Wines
- Zonzo Estate
- Levantine Hill
- Hubert Estate
Best Yarra Valley Wineries
If you're looking for smaller wineries with just enough space for a cellar door and an interesting range of wines, then any of the eight Yarra Valley wineries listed below are great ones to visit.
Tokar Estate
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Address: 6 Maddens Lane, Coldstream VIC 3770, Australia
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Website: www.tokarestate.com.au
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Cellar Door Hours:
Monday to Friday: 10:30 am – 4:30 pm
Weekends: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Summer Twilight Sessions (Saturday Nights, December to February): 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Tokar Estate, a family-operated winery established in 1999, is a must-visit for those who appreciate both exceptional wine and exquisite dining experiences. This Yarra Valley winery is acclaimed for its Tempranillo, a wine with dark berry flavours, hints of plum, and a subtle spiced finish, making it a favourite among red wine connoisseurs.
Their Chardonnay combines bright citrus notes with creamy oak, creating a balanced experience, while the Pinot Noir is light yet intricate, with earthy undertones and a vibrant cherry profile. Tokar’s Rosé, with its crisp acidity and delicate floral bouquet, is perfect for summer sipping and pairs beautifully with lighter fare.
The culinary side of Tokar Estate is just as refined as their winemaking. The restaurant’s menu is driven by seasonal, local ingredients, meticulously prepared to complement their wines. Guests rave about the slow-cooked lamb shoulder, paired with smoked eggplant and a red wine jus, which showcases the estate’s dedication to flavourful, hearty dishes.
Other highlights include the seared scallops, served with black garlic and a sweet corn purée, and the confit duck leg, accompanied by parsnip purée and seasonal greens. For dessert, the dark chocolate fondant is a decadent choice, with its rich, molten centre offering a perfect end to a meal.
Beyond the exceptional wine and food, Tokar Estate charms visitors with its Mediterranean-inspired ambience and panoramic views of the rolling Yarra Valley vineyards.
The estate is known for its welcoming and personal atmosphere, where the passion for winemaking and culinary excellence is clearly evident in every detail. Whether you’re enjoying a guided tasting with insights into the vineyard’s history or savouring a long lunch overlooking the vines, Tokar Estate is by far one of the best Yarra Valley wineries.
De Bortoli Wines
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Address: 58 Pinnacle Lane, Dixons Creek VIC 3775, Australia
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Website: www.debortoli.com.au
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Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
De Bortoli Wines, a Yarra Valley icon, is celebrated for producing an impressive variety of cool-climate wines with meticulous attention to detail. Their Noble One Botrytis Semillon, renowned worldwide, is a dessert wine with honeyed apricot, citrus, and marmalade notes balanced by refreshing acidity.
For red wine enthusiasts, the Estate Grown Pinot Noir delivers an elegant mix of cherry, plum, and subtle spice, while the Cabernet Sauvignon impresses with its dark fruit character and velvety finish.
The Chardonnay is wonderfully balanced, featuring vibrant citrus and stone fruit with a hint of creamy oak. Each wine reflects De Bortoli’s commitment to sustainable winemaking and its deep connection to the region.
The on-site Locale Restaurant offers Italian-inspired cuisine crafted from fresh, seasonal, and local produce, creating dishes that pair perfectly with De Bortoli’s wines. Highlights include the handmade ricotta gnocchi, tossed in a sage and burnt butter sauce, and the slow-braised beef cheek, served with a silky parsnip purée and red wine jus.
For dessert, the Vanilla Panna Kota, with poached Yarra Valley berries, provides a refreshing yet indulgent finish.
This family-owned vineyard dates back to 1928 and is highly regarded for its premium wines. Visitors can also explore the Cheese Room, where carefully curated artisan cheeses elevate the wine tasting experience. De Bortoli’s welcoming staff and breathtaking scenery make it a top destination for wine and food lovers alike, a true gem as far as Yarra Valley wineries are concerned.
Marnong Estate
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Address: 2335 Mickleham Rd, Mickleham VIC 3064, Australia
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Website: www.marnongestate.com.au
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Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 8:00 am – 9:00 pm
Friday to Sunday: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
Just a short flight from Melbourne, Marnong Estate combines fine dining, estate-grown wines, and breathtaking views of the Macedon Ranges. This revitalised 19th-century property features an impressive 16.5 hectares of vineyards, producing a diverse range of varietals and top-quality wines.
Their Shiraz is a real crowd pleaser, with bold flavours of blackberries, dark chocolate, and peppery spice, while the Pinot Noir provides a delicate balance of red fruit and earthy undertones.
The Chardonnay, with its crisp citrus and creamy finish, reflects the cool-climate terroir. Their lesser-seen Italian varietals, such as Sangiovese and Fiano, bring a unique touch to the estate’s offerings.
The estate’s La Vetta Restaurant sets the standard for Italian fine dining in the region. Guests can savour dishes like the Platter appetizer, featuring house-cured meats, marinated vegetables, and artisanal cheeses, followed by handmade ravioli, filled with wild mushrooms and finished with a sage beurre noisette.
The roast pork belly, served with apple compote and polenta chips, is a must-try, paired perfectly with the estate’s Shiraz. For dessert, the tiramisu is a decadent choice, balancing coffee-soaked sponge with mascarpone cream.
Beyond wine and cuisine, Marnong Estate’s architectural charm and rolling vineyards provide an inviting backdrop for relaxation. The property’s transformation, completed in 2016 with a $35 million investment, combines modern sophistication with its historic roots.
Visitors can also enjoy a boutique shopping experience at the cellar door, taking home their favourite wines to relive the experience. When it comes to the best wines, amazing food, and warm hospitality, this is a location worth visiting.
Balgownie Estate
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Address: 1309 Melba Hwy, Yarra Glen VIC 3775, Australia
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Website: www.balgownieestate.com.au
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Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 10:30 am – 4:00
Balgownie Estate, a pioneer in Yarra Valley winemaking since 1969, is revered for its award-winning wines and culinary excellence. They absolutely produce some of the best wines in the whole country.
The estate’s Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, both staples of the vineyard since its inception, deliver rich, full-bodied flavours with layers of complexity.
The Pinot Noir is a more delicate option, exuding aromas of cherry and spice, while the Chardonnay offers a refreshing blend of citrus and subtle oak. Their Sparkling Brut is another highlight, perfect for celebratory occasions or casual sipping.
Dining at Restaurant 1309 is gastronomic heaven, where Executive Chef Aidan Gallagher crafts a menu that celebrates local produce and bold flavours. Signature dishes include the confit ocean trout, served with a tangy pickled zucchini salad, and the crispy-skinned Murray cod, paired with a silky celeriac purée.
The dessert selection, such as the rose and pistachio mousse, provides a fitting finale to any meal and a lovely way to round off the meal. Guests can also explore the cellar door, where curated wine tastings allow visitors to discover the depth of Balgownie’s offerings.
Set against the backdrop of the Dandenong Ranges, Balgownie Estate also features luxurious accommodation and spa facilities, making it a sought-after retreat for relaxation. The estate’s commitment to sustainability and its picturesque vineyard views make it a must-visit destination for wine and food enthusiasts.
Oakridge Wines
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Address: 864 Maroondah Hwy, Coldstream VIC 3770, Australia
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Website: www.oakridgewines.com.au
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Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Established in 1978, Oakridge Wines is synonymous with innovation and quality, reflected in every bottle of wine they produce, making it one of those Yarra Valley wineries that you absolutely must visit.
Their Single Vineyard Pinot Noir offers a complex palate of red fruit and savoury spice, while the Chardonnay is renowned for its elegant balance of minerality and subtle oak.
The Cabernet Merlot blend is a sophisticated option, delivering layers of blackcurrant and mocha. Oakridge’s dedication to sustainable practices enhances the distinct character of its wines, which reflect the rich terroir of the Yarra Valley.
Dining at the Oakridge Restaurant is a true celebration of local flavours, with a four-course degustation menu designed to highlight the region’s finest produce. Seasonal dishes include the King George whiting, complemented by sunflower cream, and the dry-aged Berkshire pork loin, paired with charcutière sauce. For dessert, the Pithivier with parsnip and prune jam is both creative and indulgent.
The estate’s reputation speaks for itself, with many awards including the title of ‘Best Value Winery of the Year’ at the Halliday Wine Companion Awards. With views of the Yarra Valley and an emphasis on innovation, Oakridge is a destination that delights both wine connoisseurs and food lovers.
Zonzo Estate
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Address: 957 Healesville-Yarra Glen Rd, Yarra Glen VIC 3775, Australia
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Website: www.zonzo.com.au
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Hours:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Thursday: 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Friday: 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Saturday: 11:30 am – 3:00 pm
Sunday: 11:30 am – 3:00 pm
Zonzo Estate, set on 300 acres in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is a haven for lovers of Italian-inspired cuisine and expertly crafted quality wines.
Their Prosecco, with its bubbles and crisp apple notes, is a crowd-pleaser, while the Sangiovese charms with its bright cherry flavours and delicate tannins. The Shiraz and Pinot Grigio round out their offerings, showcasing the estate’s versatility in both red and white varietals.
The Zonzo Restaurant is famed for its Party Menu, a shared dining experience that begins with antipasto, followed by rounds of wood-fired pizzas, and finishes with slow-cooked lamb served alongside crispy potatoes and fresh salad.
Every dish is crafted to be enjoyed with the estate’s wines, creating a convivial and relaxed atmosphere. Guests with dietary requirements will appreciate the flexibility of the menu, which accommodates vegetarian and vegan preferences.
The estate’s rustic charm, with its rolling vineyards and open spaces, creates a picturesque setting for long lunches or special celebrations. Zonzo Estate is also a popular wedding venue, thanks to its stunning views and welcoming ambience, making every visit here feel like a celebration.
Levantine Hill
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Address: 882 Maroondah Hwy, Coldstream VIC 3770, Australia
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Website: www.levantinehill.com.au
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Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Levantine Hill is all about luxury and flavour, offering some of Australia’s most distinguished and top-quality wines. Their Cabernet Sauvignon impresses with its rich berry and cedar notes, while the Syrah delivers a robust, spicy character.
For lighter palates, the Pinot Noir and Cabernet Merlot blends provide balance and refinement. The estate’s commitment to excellence is evident in their single-vineyard wines, which consistently earn international acclaim.
The dining experience at Levantine Hill Restaurant is equally refined, with options ranging from a five-course degustation menu to an indulgent seven-course feast.
Highlights include the Mediterranean-inspired Chef’s snack platter, a selection of artisanal breads, cheeses, and seasonal spreads, and the slow-cooked lamb shoulder, paired with charred greens and jus.
Each dish is carefully designed to complement Levantine Hill’s wines, creating a symphony of flavours.
The architectural beauty of Levantine Hill is as striking as its wines, blending modern design with the natural elegance of the surrounding landscape. The estate’s reputation as a premium destination is well-deserved, offering an experience that’s both sophisticated and welcoming. When it comes to Yarra Valley wine and food, this is the place to be!
Hubert Estate
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Address: 1 St Huberts Rd, Coldstream VIC 3770, Australia
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Website: www.hubertestate.com.au
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Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Friday: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Hubert Estate combines art, wine, and exceptional dining to create a multi-sensory experience in the Yarra Valley. Known for their Cabernet Shiraz, a bold and complex red, and the Pinot Gris, a crisp, aromatic white, Hubert Estate’s wines reflect the diverse climate and soil of the region.
Their Rosé, with notes of strawberry and rose petal, is a delightful choice for warm afternoons, while the Chardonnay offers a creamy texture balanced by vibrant acidity.
The Quarters Restaurant at Hubert Estate delivers a modern Australian menu with a focus on seasonal, local ingredients. Guests can enjoy the chargrilled kangaroo loin, paired with native pepperberry sauce, or the barramundi fillet, served with smoked potato purée and a tangy lemon beurre blanc.
For dessert, the wattleseed pavlova, topped with macadamia praline and bush honey cream will make your mouth water. Pairing these dishes with estate wines makes them just that much better.
Hubert Estate also features the Gallery of Art, where visitors can explore works from local and international artists, adding a cultural dimension to their visit. This combination of fine wine, exceptional food, and artistic inspiration makes Hubert Estate a standout destination in the Yarra Valley.
