The wine regions of Victoria pack serious value for travelers seeking authentic Australian wine experiences. Quick helicopter tours over Yarra Valley offer stunning aerial views paired with gourmet lunches, while the relaxed Heathcote region lets you taste bold Shiraz without the crowds. For intimacy and personal attention, small-group tours through Cowichan Valley showcase some of Australia’s finest sparkling wines. Private tastings at family-run wineries like Pizzini showcase Italian varietals with warm hospitality. My favorite: the full-day Yarra Valley limousine tour, combining luxury transport with visits to four premium estates.
Let’s explore Victoria’s standout wine tours and what makes them special.
Good To Know
- Victoria offers a variety of high-quality wine tours, including helicopter tours, small-group tastings, scenic and culinary experiences, and full-day limousine tours.
- Helicopter wine tours provide a unique and luxurious way to explore wineries, with options for winery lunches, wine tastings, and private transfers.
- Small-group and private wine tastings offer personalized experiences, featuring renowned local wineries, gourmet food pairings, and scenic vistas.
- Scenic and culinary wine tours combine the best of Victoria’s wine regions, with opportunities to interact with winemakers and enjoy local cuisine.
- Full-day and limousine wine tours provide comprehensive, all-inclusive experiences, with transportation, tastings, and meals, catering to both novice and connoisseur wine enthusiasts.
Pizzini Wines King Valley Esperienza – Private Wine Tasting & Grazing Plate
Nestled in the picturesque King Valley region, Pizzini Wines offers an immersive Esperienza, where guests can indulge in a private wine tasting and savor an Italian-inspired grazing platter.
Led by a knowledgeable tutor, the structured tasting focuses on prosecco, pinot grigio, and other Italian varietals. Guests can then enjoy a picnic in the winery’s gardens, savoring a selection of savory and sweet items, plus dessert, coffee, and tea, accompanied by their preferred wine.
The experience takes place at the winery’s location at 175 King Valley Rd, Whitfield VIC 3733, Australia. Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are welcome. Participants must be at least 18 years old, and the experience is private, ensuring exclusivity for your group.
With a 4.6 rating based on 15 reviews and a 93% recommendation rate, the Pizzini Wines King Valley Esperienza is a highly regarded offering. Priced at $100.83 per person, the experience can be booked with flexible start times and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Pizzini Wines King Valley Esperienza – Private Wine Tasting & Grazing Plate Review
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Victoria Small-Group Sparkling Wine Tasting
This small-group sparkling wine tasting in Victoria offers guests the chance to explore the world of high-quality Australian sparkling wines. The focus is on Pizzini Wines’ renowned Prosecco, with a personalized setting that allows for an in-depth exploration of the sparkling wine production process.
Visitors can expect a tasting of five wine samples, accompanied by a shared cheese plate featuring local cheeses and condiments.
The tasting takes place at the Pizzini Wines cellar door, where guests must check in with the staff upon arrival. For those seeking a more intimate experience, an upgrade to a private tour is available.
The activity is suitable for guests aged 18 and above, but it’s important to note that the venue isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed. Dietary requirements should be communicated at the time of booking.
With only one review recorded, it’s crucial to approach the authenticity of the ratings with caution. However, the opportunity to explore Victoria’s renowned sparkling wine offerings in a small-group setting remains an intriguing prospect for oenophiles.
Read our full review: Victoria Small-Group Sparkling Wine Tasting Review
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Wine Tour of Heathcote- Laid Back
The Heathcote wine region, located just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, offers a laid-back and intimate wine tour experience. This picturesque area is known for its rich, full-bodied Shiraz, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.
On a Heathcote wine tour, you’ll have the opportunity to explore family-owned wineries, chat with passionate winemakers, and sample the region’s finest offerings.
Unlike the busier Yarra Valley or Mornington Peninsula, Heathcote maintains a relaxed, unhurried vibe. You’ll have the chance to take your time, savor the flavors, and truly learn about the local wine culture.
Many of the wineries offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys, providing the perfect backdrop for a leisurely tasting experience.
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced wine connoisseur, a Heathcote wine tour promises an authentic and unforgettable journey through one of Victoria’s most charming wine regions.
Read our full review: Wine Tour of Heathcote- Laid Back Review
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Winery Lunch by Helicopter to Levantine Hill in Yarra Valley
For those seeking a unique and luxurious wine tasting experience in the Yarra Valley, the Winery Lunch by Helicopter to Levantine Hill is an exceptional choice. This private tour offers a five-course Mediterranean-inspired sharing menu and a three-flight wine tasting of Levantine Hill Estate wines.
The activity is exclusively for your group, who’ll be transported by a private helicopter from the meeting point in Essendon Fields to the Levantine Hill Restaurant.
The experience includes lunch, a wine tasting, and the private helicopter ride, making it a truly indulgent way to explore the region. With a maximum weight of 287 lbs per passenger, the helicopter can accommodate most travelers.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the activity is near public transportation. Booking confirmation is provided, and while non-refundable, the experience comes with a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Winery Lunch by Helicopter to Levantine Hill in Yarra Valley Review
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Private Italian Cooking School at Pizzini Wines
Located within driving distance of Melbourne, the Private Italian Cooking School at Pizzini Wines offers visitors an immersive culinary experience amidst the stunning Yarra Valley.
The experience includes a private winery tour and cooking demonstration, where guests learn to prepare traditional Italian dishes with personalized attention. After a complimentary morning tea, participants embark on a guided tour of the winery and enjoy a barrel room tasting of Australian-made Italian wines.
The highlight is the hands-on cooking class, where they’ll craft a range of authentic Italian specialties. Afterwards, guests savor a sharing-style lunch featuring the dishes they prepared, paired with a choice of Pizzini reserve wines.
The all-inclusive package, priced from $157.55 per person, also covers hotel pickup and drop-off. With confirmation within 48 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this private culinary experience is an ideal addition to any Yarra Valley wine tour.
Read our full review: Private Italian Cooking School at Pizzini Wines Review
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Private Helicopter Winery Lunch at Jack Rabbit on the Bellarine
Offering a unique and unforgettable experience, the Private Helicopter Winery Lunch at Jack Rabbit on the Bellarine whisks guests away to one of Victoria’s most renowned culinary destinations.
Departing from the Rotor One heliport in Essendon, the exclusive private helicopter transports travelers to the award-winning Jack Rabbit Restaurant.
During the three-course fine dining lunch, guests savor a selection of Jack Rabbit’s acclaimed wines paired perfectly with the meal.
The package includes premium noise-cancelling headsets and alcoholic beverages, making it a luxurious and seamless experience.
With a total weight limit of 300 lbs per passenger, the tour is suitable for most travelers.
Priced from $938.99 per person, this private tour is non-refundable, so visitors are advised to plan accordingly.
An ideal outing for special occasions or simply indulging in the best of Victoria’s culinary landscape, the Private Helicopter Winery Lunch at Jack Rabbit offers an unparalleled way to explore the region.
Read our full review: Private Helicopter Winery Lunch at Jack Rabbit on the Bellarine Review
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4-Hour Ultimate Fortified Wine Experience With Take Home Barrel
This 4-hour Ultimate Fortified Wine Experience at Stanton & Killeen Wines in Rutherglen allows visitors to enjoy the art of fortified winemaking.
The workshop covers the entire process, from grape selection to barrel ageing. Participants will create their own 10-litre handcrafted home barrel to take home as a memento.
The experience includes a gourmet lunch platter, ensuring visitors are well-fed throughout the half-day event. The meeting point is at the winery’s cellar door, and the experience returns to the same location at the end.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers.
With a private tour and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, this fortified wine experience offers a unique and personalized wine adventure.
At SEK 14,019.13 per person, it’s competitively priced and comes with a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Ultimate Fortified Wine Experience With Take Home Barrel Review
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Yarra Valley Helicopter Winery Tour to Balgownie Estate
Soaring above the picturesque Yarra Valley, this helicopter winery tour whisks visitors to the Balgownie Estate, offering a truly extraordinary wine tasting experience.
The private tour is exclusively for your group, with guaranteed window seats and experienced pilots providing informative commentary throughout the flight.
Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a delectable 2-course lunch, complemented by the option to indulge in alcoholic beverages at an additional cost.
The tour is 100% carbon neutral, ensuring an eco-friendly experience. With a maximum passenger weight of 300 lbs, the tour caters to most travelers, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Conveniently located near public transportation, the tour starts and ends at a selected meeting point.
Bookings include a confirmation, and you can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
The Yarra Valley Helicopter Winery Tour to Balgownie Estate provides a unique and unforgettable way to explore Victoria’s renowned wine region.
Read our full review: Yarra Valley Helicopter Winery Tour to Balgownie Estate Review
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Indulge in a Wine & Food & Farms (Cheese) Tour – Cowichan Valley
Situated on the picturesque Vancouver Island, the Cowichan Valley is renowned for its thriving wine region, where visitors can embark on a captivating Wine & Food & Farms (Cheese) Tour.
This highly-rated experience boasts 99% traveler recommendation, showcasing the area’s focus on food, wine, and scenic beauty. The tour visits 3-4 vineyards, where guests can savor bubbly with orange juice, enjoy a seasonal picnic lunch paired with local wines, and indulge in dessert with wine.
Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides, beautiful surroundings, and personal interactions with winery owners. The tour includes tasting fees, a scenic picnic, and accommodates dietary needs with advance notice.
Departing from various locations, the tour is available Wednesdays through Sundays, excluding January. With a Badge of Excellence and over 125 reviews, this Wine & Food & Farms (Cheese) Tour offers an immersive and delightful exploration of the Cowichan Valley’s vibrant culinary and viticulture scene.
Read our full review: Indulge in a Wine & Food & Farms (Cheese) Tour – Cowichan Valley Review
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Private Wine Tasting in Beautiful Cowichan Valley
Venture into the picturesque Cowichan Valley for a private wine tasting experience that promises an immersive exploration of the region’s vibrant viticulture.
This exclusive tour takes you to 3-4 top wineries, where you’ll enjoy 4-5 tastings. Indulge in a delightful light lunch of charcuterie while taking in the scenic mountain and ocean views during the scenic drive. The hassle-free pickup from your accommodation ensures a seamless start to your wine adventure.
This private tour isn’t recommended for cruise ship passengers, and pickup is only available in Victoria, not Vancouver. Participants must be 19 years or older and provide valid ID.
While children can join, they can’t taste the wine. Additional tastings may be possible if time permits, but aren’t included in the package.
With a 4.8 rating from 6 reviews, this wine tasting tour offers a memorable experience amidst the beauty of the Cowichan Valley.
Read our full review: Private Wine Tasting in Beautiful Cowichan Valley Review
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Private Small Group Local Wine and Cider Tasting, Central Saanich
Set out on a private small-group journey to explore the vibrant wine and cider scene of Central Saanich, located just outside the city of Victoria. This tour offers a chance to sample three to five tastings at three different venues, each boasting stunning views of orchards, vineyards, and mountains.
The experience includes hassle-free pickup from your accommodations or the Seaplane terminal in Victoria’s inner harbour, along with private transportation, a professional tour guide, and a light lunch. Priced at $127.14 per person, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Guests can expect a relaxed atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, with many reviewers praising the tour guide, Linda, for her friendliness and expertise.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. While not recommended for pregnant travelers, most visitors can participate in this memorable experience.
Read our full review: Private Small Group Local Wine and Cider Tasting, Central Saanich Review
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Private Saanich Peninsula Wine Tour
This Saanich Peninsula Wine Tour is a half-day adventure starting from Greater Victoria, Canada. It takes visitors through British Columbia’s renowned wine region, offering an indulgent experience with tutored tastings at multiple wineries.
The tour is private and includes round-trip transit in a private vehicle, with tasting fees covered in the price.
Travelers rave about the amazing experience, praising the knowledgeable guides and the scenic drives through the beautiful Saanich Peninsula. The service is personalized and accommodating, making it a highly recommended small group tour.
Pickup is available anywhere in Greater Victoria, and the tour operates on weekends from 11 AM to 5 PM.
Priced from $137.73 per person, the tour offers a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals. Most travelers can participate, and confirmation is received at booking or within 48 hours if booked close to the travel date.
Read our full review: Private Saanich Peninsula Wine Tour Review
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All Inclusive Full Day Private Limousine Wine Tour – Tastes of the Yarra Valley
Theres some good an all-inclusive full-day private limousine wine tour through the picturesque Yarra Valley region of Victoria, Australia. The tour includes pickup and transportation via stretch limousine, four wine tastings at different wineries, a two-course lunch paired with a glass of wine, and snacks and bottled water.
The tour lasts approximately 7-8 hours and isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s stroller accessible and allows service animals. Infant seats are available. The tour is private, so only the booking party participates. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and most travelers can join.
Alcoholic beverages are for adults only. Reviews for this tour are excellent, with an overall 5.0 rating from 8 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, highlighting the wonderful experience, friendly driver, and amazing wineries and lunch.
Read our full review: All Inclusive Full Day Private Limousine Wine Tour – Tastes of the Yarra Valley Review
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Experience the Secret Art of Wine Blending
Although wine enthusiasts may have explored the art of wine tasting, the opportunity to explore the secrets of wine blending is a unique and captivating experience awaiting visitors at Tahbilk Winery in Victoria, Australia.
During this 1.5-hour blending class, you will tour the winery’s historic 19th-century cellars and learn winemaking techniques from an expert wine ambassador.
They’ll explore the characteristics of different grape varietals, including Viognier, Marsanne, Shiraz, and Mourvèdre, and then have the hands-on experience of creating their own personalized wine blend.
As an added perk, you will take home a 750 ml bottle of their custom-made wine.
With a 5.0 rating and 100% traveler recommendation, this class provides an educational and memorable experience for wine aficionados.
For those seeking an enhanced experience, an optional 2-course lunch with a glass of wine is available.
Read our full review: Experience the Secret Art of Wine Blending Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Wineries?
The best time to visit wineries is typically during the spring and fall seasons. The weather is mild, crowds are smaller, and visitors can enjoy the vineyards’ lush greenery or vibrant autumnal colors.
How Long Do the Wine Tasting Tours Typically Last?
Wine tasting tours typically last between 1-3 hours, depending on the number of wineries visited and the depth of the tasting experience. Many tours offer the flexibility to adjust the duration to suit the group’s preferences.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Wine Tasting Tours?
Most wine tasting tours have age restrictions, typically requiring participants to be 18 or 21 years old, depending on local laws. Tour operators strictly enforce these age limits for safety and legal reasons.
What Is the Dress Code for the Winery Visits?
There’s generally no strict dress code for winery visits, but visitors should opt for comfortable, casual attire. Dress in layers as temperatures can vary between indoor and outdoor areas. Avoid overly formal or revealing clothing to maintain a respectful atmosphere.
Are There Any Accessibility Options for the Wine Tours?
Many wine tours offer accessible options, such as wheelchair-friendly transportation and tasting rooms. Visitors should check with tour providers to ensure their needs can be accommodated. Some tours may also provide alternative sampling methods for guests with mobility or sensory challenges.
The Sum Up
Victoria offers a variety of exceptional wine tours, from private tastings and gourmet grazing plates to helicopter-accessed winery lunches and hands-on wine blending experiences. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back exploration of the Heathcote region or an all-inclusive, full-day private tour of the Yarra Valley, there’s a wine tour to suit every preference. With a focus on local, boutique wineries and immersive experiences, these tours provide a unique and memorable way to discover Victoria’s vibrant wine scene.