Melbourne isn’t just Australia’s cultural capital, it also offers a vibrant wine scene for enthusiasts. The city is known for its appreciation of both local and international varietals, making it a haven for diverse tasting experiences. Wine lovers with any type of palate can have a sip in cellar doors, scenic vineyards, and intimate laneway bars. If you’re a seasoned sommelier or simply a fan of a good glass of Pinot, here are top 10 wine tasting destinations that are a must-visit for your next wine adventure in Melbourne.
1. Yarra Valley Wine Region (1 hour from Melbourne)
It’s impossible to mention wine without the Yarra Valley. As one of the world’s premier wine-growing regions, the Yarra Valley has over 90 cellar doors to explore. It is also the first wine-growing district in Victoria with a history dating back nearly 180 years. Now, it is home to world-class cool-climate wineries like Domaine Chandon, De Bortoli, and Oakridge, just an hour away from Melbourne. Visit the region’s wineries and indulge in some delicious local produce. Book a guided tour or make a weekend of it.
2. City Wine Shop (Melbourne CBD)
Right across from the State Parliament, The City Wine Shop is a classic wine bar that offers an extensive list of local and international wines. Enjoy a casual tasting or grab a bottle from their shop and pair it with cheese or charcuterie at an incredibly reasonable price, considering that its neighbours include The Supper Club and The European. It’s where the city’s wine aficionados come to unwind, and the staff know a great deal to talk wine. Whether you’re up for an outside lunch or indoor wine haunt, get ready to sip like a connoisseur.
3. Embla (Melbourne CBD)
Embla is a stylish, minimalist wine bar that has gained cult status for its ever-changing natural wine list and perfectly paired small plates. The list champions low-intervention, organic, and biodynamic wines–a true north star for Melbourne’s natural wine lovers—yet remains accessible and expertly curated, with a far higher hit rate than many similarly ethos-driven spots. The place also has friendly, knowledgeable staff that are ready to help you learn more about natural wines in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
4. Punch Lane (Melbourne CBD)
A Melbourne institution, Punch Lane combines the intimacy of a wine bar with the sophistication of a fine-dining restaurant. Their curated wine list focuses on boutique Australian producers, making it a brilliant introduction to regional drops. Positioned at the top of Little Bourke Street, it immerses you in its cosy European setting graced with vintages of classic, old-world varietals from Italy and France as well as a strong Australian selection. Come during the day to enjoy lunch with their a la carte menu, or come back for dinner to have a snack at the bar and indulge in a glass of port afterwards.
5. Noisy Ritual (Brunswick East)
Melbourne’s first urban winery, Noisy Ritual is a must for anyone who wants to taste and see how wine is made right in the city. Producing small-batch wines on-site, they offer tastings and even let you stomp some grapes if you come at the right time. Established after the serendipitous discovery of a wine fermenter in a suburban basement, Noisy Ritual has now gone full scale in making premium wine with grapes sourced from all over Victoria. They demystify the winemaking process by bringing people together over great wine, food and music to learn about, taste and create without smoke and mirrors.
6. Gerald’s Bar (Carlton North)
This one is a neighbourhood gem that’s all about wine, music, and good times. Gerald’s Bar bathes in warm light and has a pleasant atmosphere for both newcomers and locals. Their wine list is ever-changing and handwritten on a roll of paper daily, while the mood is always laid-back and relaxed. Enjoy produce from local vendors and order some dishes to pair it with, such as hare and mash, sardines, or sliced jamon. You will come for the vino, stay for the community vibe and Mediterranean-style share plates.
7. Bar Olo (Carlton)
Bar Olo may have features similar to the Carlton neighborhood–Italian food, wine and cocktail bar–but its combination of personality, energy, and quality makes it offer a brand new experience nonetheless. With a medium-sized wine selection consisting of plenty of Italian gems, it’s a place you plan to visit for a drink, but end up staying all night as the cosy atmosphere and friendly staff keep you feeling welcomed for hours.
8. Vinesmith City Cellar Door (Flinders Lane)
A cellar door, bar, and bistro in one, Vinesmith City serves award-winning wines from Blue Pyrenees and Glenlofty Estates, along with carefully curated imports. Pair them with delightful French-inspired dishes recommended by their friendly team as you relax and unwind. They also have a sommelier team to assist you with wine selection, elevating your experience, whether it’s a quick lunch to sharing plates of fresh and seasonal produce.
9. Mornington Peninsula (1.5 hours from Melbourne)
The Mornington Peninsula is home to more than 50 boutique cellar doors and pinot noir. Several of the most popular wineries are Montalto, Paringa Estate, and Ten Minutes by Tractor. Enjoy refined wines while gazing at pristine beaches and green hinterland. The peninsula winegrowers will tell you all about the renowned pinot noir or newer varietals like pinot gris and shiraz. The region has different styles of wine thanks to the peninsula’s climate, topography, land and soil structure. If you want more adventure, try something different like touring the country on horseback, stopping by wineries and farms for tastings.
10. Olivine (Pentridge)
A smart, cosy wine bar nestled inside 170-year-old heritage-listed walls, Olivine is a spot that requires some roaming around through arched paths and dark foyers. But once you’re in, you’ll know you’re in good hands. This opulent bar is perfect for dates, wine tastings or even private business meetings. Discover wine selections from around the globe guided by expert sommeliers. A walk-in cellar also awaits those who are curious for more. Visit Olivine for your next suburban night venture or try a wine you’ve always been eager to.
Melbourne has something for every kind of wine lover. From exclusive or more laid-back wine bars to regional vineyards, these ten destinations offer a full-bodied experience of Melbourne’s wine scene one glass at a time.