Melbourne is a city known for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, world-class culinary scene and of course, a thriving wine culture. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, Melbourne has something to offer for everyone. From breathtaking wineries to chic wine bars and expert-guided tasting experiences, this city has it all.
Best Wine Tasting Experiences
Yarra Valley Wine and winery tours
A must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts with everything on offer from chardonnay to cabernet sauvignon. The tour takes you through the picturesque Yarra Valley, where you’ll visit popular wineries and enjoy plenty of tastings along the way.
You’ll learn about the winemaking process, the distinctive tasting techniques, and taste a variety of styles from sparkling, red, white, and sweet wine. This is a fantastic day trip idea and a great way to explore the fertile wine-producing region.
The private group tours are ideal for families and friend groups, and it’s so much more than just a winery tour. You’ll be led through wineries, distilleries, an ice creamery, a craft brewery, and even the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie.
City Wine Shop
A charming little establishment in Melbourne’s CBD that functions as a wine bar and a bottle shop. The selection is superb and leans trendy, with a vast, global selection of local and imported wines at all prices.
It’s worth the time to chat with the staff and consider their recommendations, as they’re well-versed in all things wine and can help you discover your new favourite wine. The City Wine Shop also offers a European-influenced food menu, with contemporary small plates and mains.
Cumulus Up
A restaurant and wine bar that offers one of the best wine selections in Melbourne. The staff is hyper-focused on making every customer feel comfortable navigating the at-times daunting wine list. They take an unhurried approach to explaining each bottle and recommending the best possible variety and vintage.
Cumulus Up is a European-styled wine bar buzzing with sophistication. The ambience is dark and sensuous, and the contemporary menu is sure to please any palate.
Best Wineries near Melbourne
Merricks Creek
A stunning bespoke winery situated on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula. The winery is only an hour’s drive away from Melbourne, and it offers visitors a chance to relax and unwind with their standout Pinot Noir and Estate Chardonnay. The winery also offers delicious local food such as cheese platters, free-range pork sliders, and meatballs that perfectly complement the wines.
Merricks Creek is well-known for its close-planted Pinot Noir, which is made in the French Burgundy tradition and often acclaimed as some of the best in Australia. The winery’s raised timber deck offers breathtaking views of the vineyard, and visitors can enjoy the seasons of the vineyard while sipping on their award-winning wines.
Marnong Estate
Another must-visit winery near Melbourne. With spectacular views of the Macedon Ranges, Marnong Estate is a unique destination that is steeped in history. The estate offers luxury accommodation, an award-winning restaurant, and a cellar door where visitors can taste the estate’s premium wines. Marnong Estate is also only a short drive from Melbourne’s CBD and airport, making it an easily accessible destination for both locals and tourists.
Rob Dolan Wines
Located in the Yarra Valley, is another standout winery near Melbourne. The cellar door is located on the edge of suburbia and is just a stone’s throw away from the Eastland Shopping Centre. The winery is headed up by larger than life Rob Dolan, a former footballer and legend of the Yarra Valley wine scene.
Rob Dolan Wines offers an impressive range of wines, as well as a brewery and delicious charcuterie items that visitors can enjoy in the cellar door or on the charming verandah. The winery is also dog-friendly, making it the perfect place to enjoy wine and cheese while learning about the Yarra Valley from the experts.
Arundel Farm Estate
A family-owned boutique venue and vineyard located in Keilor, just 20 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD. The winery is situated on 300+ acres of land and offers visitors a chance to experience traditional Italian cuisine that is perfectly paired with their unique wine blends.
The winery is family-run and has a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes visitors feel right at home. The Restaurant at Arundel Farm Estate was built in 2018 with the purpose of creating a wholesome and relaxed atmosphere for local clientele to dine in amongst the country property.
Best Wine Bars in Melbourne
Punch Lane
A beloved institution in the heart of the city for over two decades. This charming and inviting laneway bar offers a sophisticated seasonal menu and an extensive wine list boasting over 200 bottles from Italy, France, and Australia. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be transported to a world of culinary delights and exceptional service. The cheeses are particularly noteworthy and pair perfectly with your choice of wine. It’s a cosy and inclusive place that has something for everyone.
Seddon wine Store
A hybrid bar and wine shop that’s sure to impress even the most discerning wine lover. With over 500 bottles on offer, there’s always something new and exciting to try. The knowledgeable staff is quick to recommend the perfect wine to complement your selection of cheese, cured meats, or tinned seafood. If you’re lucky enough to snag one of the 20 seats, settle in for a unique and unforgettable wine experience.
Agostino
A Melbourne interpretation of a classic Italian enoteca. This cosy wine bar, bottle shop, and cellar is located in an iconic heritage building and offers quality pasta and hard-to-find wines. The waiters are clad in head-to-toe white Japanese denim, adding to the ambiance and authenticity of the experience. If you’re a wine connoisseur, Agostino is a must-visit destination.
Napier Quarter
A Parisian-style backstreet wine bar that celebrates rustic European cooking and community. This neighbourhood wine bar and guesthouse is committed to quality and champions the artisan. From morning anchovy toast to late-night cheese platters and classic espresso, Napier Quarter is the perfect spot to while away the hours. With its charming decor and laid-back atmosphere, it’s easy to lose track of time and simply enjoy the moment.
Whether you’re looking to explore the picturesque wine regions surrounding Melbourne or indulge in a glass of wine in the heart of the city, there is no shortage of options when it comes to experiencing the best wine in Melbourne. From the Yarra Valley wine tour to the City Wine Shop and Cumulus Up, the city offers a diverse range of wine experiences that cater to all tastes and preferences.
So, next time you’re in Melbourne, make sure to add a wine tasting adventure to your itinerary and discover the unique flavours and aromas of this stunning city. Be sure to check out our Melbourne food reccomendations.
