The Best Yarra Valley Wineries for Sparkling Wine Lovers
Only an hour from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is famous for its cool climate regions and is the birthplace of some of Australia’s best wines. A wine lover’s paradise, the Yarra Valley is most famous for its sparkling wines, made with a perfect blend of traditional and modern techniques. Whether you’re a wine snob or a bubble lover, the Yarra Valley has got you covered with plenty of fun along the way.
From Domaine Chandon to Seville Estate, this guide takes you through the top wineries that will blow your mind with their award winning sparkling wines, all set in beautiful vineyards and stunning views.
Domaine Chandon: Iconic Bubbles with Breathtaking Views
If you love bubbles, a visit to Domaine Chandon is a must. As a premium wine producer founded by Moët & Chandon, this winery brings a taste of French Champagne to the Yarra Valley. The estate produces a range of sparkling wines, made using the méthode traditionnelle, the same method used in the Champagne region of France.
Why Domaine Chandon?
- Amazing wines including the Chandon Brut, with citrus notes and creamy texture.
- Breathtaking views of the vineyards, perfect for an afternoon of sparkling wine and views of the Dandenong Ranges.
- Cellar door includes a guided tour of the sparkling wine production process, great for wine geeks.
- Enjoy your sparkling with a cheese platter or gourmet meal at their winery restaurant while taking in the views.
- A great spot to celebrate special occasions, from intimate dining to larger private tastings for groups.
Yering Station: Heritage Elegance with Modern Winemaking
One of the oldest and most respected wineries in the Yarra Valley, Yering Station offers a fantastic wine tasting experience. Established in 1838, this winery combines tradition with modern winemaking, producing a range of premium sparkling wines that showcase the cool climate of the region.
Why Yering Station?
- The Yering Station Vintage Sparkling is a winner, with layers of complexity and green apple, citrus and brioche notes.
- Wine bar and tasting room is cozy, with knowledgeable staff to guide you through sparkling and still wines.
- Visit the on site art gallery, award winning restaurant or relax in the beautiful garden terrace.
- Private tastings available to discover the nuances of their sparkling range while taking in the rolling hills and vineyard views.
Oakridge Wines: Tradition Meets Innovation
A visit to Oakridge Wines is not just about the wine; it’s about the whole experience. This award winning vineyard is renowned for its quality and its focus on premium wines that reflect the Yarra Valley. Oakridge has a range of sparkling wines that showcase their expertise in producing elegant and refined bubbles.
What makes Oakridge different?
- Their Blanc de Blancs is a fresh and crisp sparkling wine made from Chardonnay, with vibrant acidity and a long finish.
- Oakridge has an award winning restaurant that pairs its wines with local and seasonal produce, so you’ll have a memorable experience.
- The cellar door has stunning views of the Yarra River and the surrounding hills, perfect for a relaxed wine tasting.
- Oakridge runs wine masterclasses and private tastings so you can go deeper into the world of Yarra Valley’s best sparkling wines.
Dominique Portet: French in the Yarra Valley
At Dominique Portet Winery French winemaking heritage meets Australian innovation. Founded by the 9th generation winemaker from Bordeaux, Dominique Portet, this winery brings French style to its premium wines. Their sparkling wines are made using traditional methods so it’s a favourite among sparkling wine lovers.
Don’t miss Dominique Portet
- The Dominique Portet Brut Rosé is an elegant sparkling wine with strawberry, cherry and floral notes perfect for any occasion.
- The cellar door experience is enhanced by the vineyard views and the intimate setting of the tastings.
- Private Yarra Valley Winery Tours available so it’s a great destination for a special experience in the Yarra Valley.
- After your tasting, dine at their outdoor restaurant and enjoy the view.
Coldstream Hills: A Yarra Valley Sparkling Star
Founded by James Halliday, one of Australia’s most famous wine critics, Coldstream Hills is known for its beautiful wines that reflect the cool climate of the Yarra Valley. Their sparkling wines are no exception, with refined and elegant options for all sparkling wine lovers.
Coldstream Hills highlights:
- The Coldstream Hills Sparkling has bright citrus and green apple notes with fine bubbles, perfect for special occasions or just for sipping.
- The boutique cellar door offers a more intimate tasting experience, with staff to guide you through their sparkling and still wines.
- Enjoy your wine tasting and take in the views of the vineyards and hills, a peaceful escape from city life.
Seville Estate: A Small Sparkling Wine Boutique
Looking for a more intimate wine tasting experience? Seville Estate is the place. As a small family run winery we focus on single vineyard wines with a strong emphasis on sustainability and minimal intervention.
Why Seville Estate is a Gem:
- Try their Seville Estate Sparkling Chardonnay, lively bubbles and apple and pear flavours.
- Private winery tour and tasting, perfect for wine lovers who want a quieter more personal experience.
- Beautiful estate surroundings, sit back with a glass of sparkling and take in the vineyard view.
Rochford Wines: Where Sparkling Meets Scenic
Known for their big events and large productions Rochford Wines is a popular spot for wine tastings, concerts and festivals. But in addition to the lively atmosphere Rochford produces some of the best sparkling wines in the region perfect for celebrations or just to enjoy.
What’s special about Rochford?
- Their Blanc de Blancs is a beautiful example of 100% Chardonnay sparkling wine, fresh and zesty.
- The award winning restaurant is a lovely spot to dine, with a menu that matches their sparkling wines.
- And with vineyard and hill views Rochford is also a great spot for outdoor events and private functions.
TarraWarra Estate: Wine, Art and Architecture
Combining art and wine TarraWarra Estate is a must visit for those who love culture and great wine. The estate produces some of the Yarra Valley’s best sparkling wines and is home to the TarraWarra Museum of Art so it’s a great day out.
Why visit TarraWarra Estate:
- Their Blanc de Noir is a winner, rich and complex with a smooth finish.
- Beautiful valley views for wine tastings.
- Intimate dining in their modern cellar surrounded by wine barrels and vineyard views.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a sparko devotee or just want to experience cool climate winemaking, the Yarra Valley has got you covered. From Domaine Chandon’s famous bubbles to Seville Estate’s boutique charm, there’s something for everyone to taste Australia’s best sparkling wines.
The Yarra Valley’s award winning wineries, great food and stunning scenery make it the ultimate day of indulgence. Whether you like a wine bar or a quiet spot with a cheese platter and a glass of bubbles, the region has it all so your visit will be as good as the wine.
FAQs
Why is Yarra Valley a sparko’s paradise?
Yarra Valley is a cool climate wine region, perfect for producing top quality sparkling wines. With beautiful vineyards, world class wineries and many wine tasting options it’s a great place to visit if you like a glass of bubbles.
Which winery has the best view while tasting?
Domaine Chandon and Oakridge Wines have the best views in the Yarra Valley with views of the Dandenong Ranges and rolling hills. Both wineries offer great wine tastings and dining experiences to match the scenery.
Can I eat a full meal while tasting sparkling wine at these wineries?
Yes, many wineries in the Yarra Valley have on site restaurants where you can eat a meal. Oakridge Wines and Rochford Wines have award winning restaurants with seasonal menus that match their sparkling wines.
When should I visit Yarra Valley for sparkling wine?
The Yarra Valley is lovely all year round but the warmer months of spring and summer are best for the outdoor restaurants, garden terraces and vineyard views. Autumn is also beautiful with the foliage and a more relaxed atmosphere at the wineries.
Which winery for a more intimate, boutique wine tasting?
For a more intimate, boutique winery experience Seville Estate is the way to go. Single vineyard wines and a peaceful setting and personalized tastings make it a great spot for a day out.