Just an hour from Melbourne on the Maroondah Highway is one of the world’s most famous wine regions. Cool climate, rolling hills and rich soil make it perfect for producing sparkling, light whites and full bodied reds. But the real magic is being able to combine food with wine as part of special experiences. From winery restaurants to private dining rooms with views, the Yarra Valley has it all for foodies and wine lovers.
If you want to get the most out of this foodie heaven then Yarra Valley Wine Tours are the way to go. We’ll show you the best wineries for food and wine matching, Levantine Hill, Oakridge Wines and Punt Road Wines and why this place is a must visit for every foodie.
Yarra Valley is a Foodie and Wine Lover’s Paradise
The Yarra Valley is famous for its wine but also its food culture. The region’s boutique wineries and winery restaurants take pride in creating dishes that match their wines so you get a carefully crafted food experience that showcases the region’s fresh local produce. The focus on food matching helps to highlight the wines, from light wines that pair with seafood to heavy reds like Cabernet Sauvignon that are perfect for rich meat dishes.
The Yarra Valley’s wine reputation goes global, locals and international visitors come to visit the vineyard views, cheese platters and gourmet meals that are matched with the valley’s best. Whether you want to try small batch wines, sip on a glass of bitter with a big meal or indulge in the valley’s most expensive wines the Yarra Valley has it all.
Yarra Valley Wineries for Food and Wine
Oakridge Wines
Located on McMeikans Road Oakridge Wines has an award winning range of sparkling and small batch wines and a truly special dining experience. The 316-334 Maroondah Highway location is perfect for those who want to have an experience in the beautiful green hills. The menu changes seasonally and features local produce like Persian fetta from Yarra Valley Dairy. The 100 seat dining room has vineyard views so it’s ideal for a lazy lunch or special occasion dinner.
Matched with: slow cooked pork shoulder, local cheeses and honey.
Levantine Hill
A architectural gem on the Maroondah Highway, Levantine Hill offers wine tasting and fine dining. They produce expensive wines like their André Cabernet Sauvignon and the menu is designed to match. Lunch menu is modern Australian and Mediterranean fusion. Private dining spaces available for a special occasion or intimate event.
Signature Pairing: Syrah pairs beautifully with braised lamb shank.
Dominique Portet
French tradition meets Australian terroir at Dominique Portet near Dixons Creek. The Portet family have a long history of winemaking and bring that expertise to the Yarra Valley producing wines like their elegant Cabernet Sauvignon. The bistro serves French inspired food with an Australian twist, from charcuterie boards to French cassoulet. Beautiful views of the surrounding hills, a visit to Dominique Portet is a relaxing wine experience.
Signature Pairing: Cabernet Sauvignon with cassoulet, for those who like big wines.
Yering Station
One of the most well known wineries in the region, Yering Station is at the heart of Yarra Valley wine history. They produce a wide range of wines from light and refreshing to full bodied reds. Yering Station restaurant offers fine dining with dishes designed to showcase local produce. Whether you’re having a cheese platter or a full meal, the vineyard views are the perfect setting for any occasion.
Signature Pairing: Shiraz Viognier with roast duck, for fruit and spice.
Punt Road Wines
Sweet wines and laid back atmosphere, Punt Road Wines is the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon. Casual dining options include seasonal small plates and goat’s cheese platters to match their light and fragrant wines. Vineyard views from the outdoor seating area make it a local and tourist favourite.
Signature Pairing: Viognier with seafood risotto.
Yarra Valley Wine and Dine Experiences
De Bortoli Yarra Valley Estate
One of the largest wineries in the region, De Bortoli Yarra Valley Estate, produces great wines and gourmet experiences. Their restaurant Locale serves Italian inspired food, handmade pasta and locally sourced seafood. De Bortoli wine experience includes tastings of their famous Noble One dessert wine, paired with a cheese platter from their in-house cheesemonger Sophie.
Signature Pairing: A glass of Noble One with a rich blue cheese creates a decadent and satisfying end to any meal.
Boat O’Craigo
Hidden away in Seville Hill, Boat O’Craigo is a small winery for a more intimate wine tasting experience. Their seasonal menu showcases the best of the region’s produce and the table menu has small plates to share. Relaxed and stunning views make it a must visit for those looking for a quieter wine experience.
Signature Pairing: Reserve Pinot Noir with local cheeses and cured meats, a taste of the Yarra Valley in every bite.
Jayden Ong Winery & Cellar Bar
New to the Yarra Valley wine scene Jayden Ong Winery & Cellar Bar focuses on small batch wines and sustainable winemaking. Just off the Maroondah Hwy the winery has a relaxed yet refined wine bar. Tastings of their range of wines and seasonal dishes from their small but thoughtful menu.
Signature Pairing: Chardonnay with grilled calamari, a delicate balance of acidity and richness.
Food Pairing Etiquette
To get the most out of the Yarra Valley’s food and wine pairings follow some basic wine tasting etiquette. Start with the lighter wines like white wines or sparkling wines and work your way up to the heavier wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz. Cleanse your palate between tastings with bread or water and don’t be afraid to ask questions about the wines or the food pairings – winemakers and chefs love to share their knowledge.
Why Food and Wine Pairing Matters
Food and wine pairing is more than just matching a wine to a dish. A well paired wine can heighten the flavours of the food and make the experience more memorable. The acidity in light wines can balance rich, creamy dishes, the tannins in heavy wines like André Cabernet Sauvignon cut through the fattiness of a juicy steak or roast lamb. Learning to pair sweet wines with salty foods or desserts will take your dining to a whole new level.
Plan Your Yarra Valley Winery Visit
If you’re visiting the Yarra Valley many of the best wineries are along the Maroondah Hwy or Warburton Hwy so you can visit multiple in a day. Whether you prefer guided Wine Tours or self drive itineraries a day visiting the Yarra Valley’s favourite wineries will give you stunning views, great food and amazing experiences. Don’t forget to stop at Yarra Valley Dairy for a taste of their artisanal cheeses which pair perfectly with the region’s wines.
Conclusion
The Yarra Valley has so many amazing food and wine pairing experiences. Whether you’re having a luxurious lunch at Levantine Hill or a casual arvo at Punt Road Wines, the region’s commitment to great wine and food is evident in every sip and bite. With its hills, views and great wine the Yarra Valley is a culinary treat.
FAQs
What’s special about Yarra Valley wines?
The Yarra Valley’s cool climate and diverse soils allow for many different wine styles from sparkling to light wines to bold reds like Cabernet Sauvignon.
When should I visit Yarra Valley wineries?
Best time to visit is during the autumn harvest (March to May) or spring (September to November) when the weather is mild and the vineyards are looking their best.
Are there vegan or vegetarian food and wine pairings at Yarra Valley wineries?
Yes, many Yarra Valley wineries including Levantine Hill and Oakridge Wines have vegan and vegetarian options on their menus.
How do I get around the Yarra Valley for wine tasting?
Hiring a driver or booking a Wine Tour is the best way to visit multiple wineries in the region if you plan to taste throughout the day.
Can I buy wine from Yarra Valley wineries to take home?
Yes! Most wineries have cellar door sales and some even offer shipping if you want to send your favourite wines back home.
