Melbourne’s Best Wine Regions

From the coastlines of the Bellarine and Mornington Peninsula to the misty mountains of the Macedon Ranges and Yarra Valley, we’ve rounded up the unmissable wine regions in Victoria, Australia to explore on your next day trip from Melbourne.

Distance from Melbourne: around 144 kilometres

Top varietals: Sparkling wine, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay

One of the most well-known and easily accessible wine regions around Melbourne – the Yara Valley wine region is loved by both locals and tourists alike. The Yarra Valley is to Melbourne what the Hunter Valley is to Sydney , or the Barossa Valley is to Adelaide . 

Boasting a top-notch chardonnay and pinot noir thanks to the region’s Mediterranean and continental climates you will find plenty of Yarra Valley wines in stores around Melbourne. However, there is no better way to sample the region’s finest, than back at the source.

Home to a bunch of quaint local towns such as Coldstream, Healesville, Yarra Glen & Warburton, there are plenty of places to explore in the region. Plus, with over 70 wineries and cellar doors, there is no shortage of wines to be tasted and views to be enjoyed. 

Cellar Doors to Visit

Domaine Chandon’s sparkling wines make a visit an absolute must. Take a tour through the cellar door and uncover the history of the winery, followed by a sparkling wine tasting where you can enjoy four different varieties of sparkling - be sure to try the Sparkling Pinot Shiraz. Domaine Chandon also offers great food and wine for you to enjoy while soaking in the view.

Yering Station is another great local winery. For something truly special, treat yourself and book in for a wine, food and fly package with Yering Station which includes return helicopter transfers from Melbourne CBD, as well as a glass of sparkling on arrival, private tour and wine tasting followed by a 3-course lunch with wine pairings.

The jewel of the Yarra Valley though is TarraWarra Estate. After tasting at the unforgettable cellar door, enjoy a stroll around the immaculately kept gardens, followed by a menu of locally sourced goodies (from their own garden).

Plenty of Yarra Valley winey tours run from Melbourne to the Yarra Valley wine region offering a day of wine tasting and lunch. Yarra Valley Wine Tours is a popular choice. Choose from private and group tours which also offer the option to request a winery to stop off at.

Distance from Melbourne: around 90 kilometres 

Top varietals: Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir

A glamorous wine region by the sea, the Mornington Peninsula offers fine dining alongside award-winning wine. A gastronomical location for those looking for something a little fancy, the Mornington Peninsula is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion, near Melbourne.

The picturesque landscape dotted with smaller vineyards, rugged beaches and rich native surrounds is all part of the Mornington Peninsula’s charm. It’s maritime climate and landscape of the Peninsula makes for a diverse and rich offering that’s definitely worth exploring, but not on an empty stomach.

If you have any spare time while in the Mornington Peninsula, be sure to stop by the Peninsula Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs. 

Cellar Doors to Visit

One of the most photographed wineries on the Peninsula is Ocean Eight Winery, delivering delicious Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays, and Pinot Gris – you won’t see these wines in stores (only in the fine dining restaurants like those found along Fitzroy’s Gertrude Street) a visit and tasting is not to be missed.

Good Food Guide hatted restaurant on the Peninsula, Paringa Estate is ideal for special occasions with an elegant interior and fine-dining, seasonal menu with wine pairings.

Montalto is another top-notch Mornington Peninsula winery serving great food, good views and even better wine. Stop by for a lazy lunch or wine tasting and sit back and enjoy the views of undulating vineyards. 

Distance from Melbourne: 75 kilometres

Top varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Shiraz

Once one of the most important wine regions of Victoria, Geelong’s maritime, cool climate is ideal for producing excellent Chardonnay and Shiraz. Encompassing the Bellarine Peninsula, this wine region stretches from bay-side vineyards to those sheltered further inland.

Only an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Geelong makes for the ideal day trip from Melbourne.

This region’s eclectic range of cellar doors makes for an interesting visit, with each vineyard offering something different. You’ll also find locally brewed beer and ciders such as the famous Little Creatures brewery and restaurant.

Knowledgeable and friendly staff are a staple throughout all cellar doors and breweries in the area, greeting you like an old friend and making you feel right at home.

Cellar Doors to Visit

While in the region you cannot miss the Bellarine Taste Trail which includes over 50 food and wine destinations. Jack Rabbit Vineyard is one of those listed and offers stunning views across the bay from sunny tables scattered across the rolling grass in front – as well as some great bottles of red and a relaxed café menu offering local produce.

No visit to the Geelong Wine region is complete without sampling the wine at Scotchman’s Hill. After making your way up the winding driveway you’ll be rewarded with excellent views and award-winning wineries, it is event rated among James Halliday’s Top 100 Australian Wineries. 

Distance from Melbourne: 70 kilometres 

Top varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon and Blends, Riesling, Shiraz Chardonnay and Pinot Noir 

Head an hour north-west of Melbourne and you will enter the misty valleys of the Macedon Ranges wine region, Victoria’s cool climate wine region. With rustic cellar doors producing small-batch wines, the Macedon Range’s boutique wineries are sure to delight.

Mostly family-owned, these small wineries offer visitors the chance to meet the wine producers and chat to them about the different varietals, what makes them so unique and what to pair them with. This personalised experience is what keeps locals and visitors returning year on year. 

Cellar Doors to Visit

With 27 cellar doors to visit, there is plenty to do on your Macedon Ranges wine region tour. However, if you only have time to sample a few of the region’s best then be sure to stop into Mount Macedon Winery for panoramic views overlooking the Black Forest Valley and Mount Macedon with a unique range of red wine such as the spicy Pinot Noir.

Cloud 9 Farm is another must-visit, offering some of best cellar door food in the region – a true paddock to plate experience.

Saving the best ‘till last, Hanging Rock Winery is a local hero. The largest wine producer in the region, their cellar door boasts an extensive award-winning range. Pick up one of their gourmet picnic boxes filled with local produce or cheeseboards and grab a grassy spot to take in the iconic Hanging Rock backdrop.