Melbourne F O O D & W I N E Taste sensations at every turn The very best of Victoria’s local produce, wine, cider, beer, hand-crafted spirits. Add a pinch of the exotic, with an edible forest, clifftop dining, a truffle hunt, luxury vineyard stays. Visit a paddock-to-plate boutique farm, take a cooking class. 5 Day Itinerary DAY ONE: YARRA VALLEY & DANDENONG RANGES Coombe Yarra Valley (p46) is home to history, award-winning estate grown wines, a strollable 7-acre garden, a gallery, museum, cellar door and a fabulous dining experience in the refurbished motor house. Chandon (p45) was established by French Champagne house, Möet and Chandon. Enjoy panoramic views, join a Behind the Bubbles blending experience and savour wines (including méthode traditionnelle sparklings) in the Brasserie. Araluen Boutique Accommodation (p75) is a 4.5star boutique luxury bed and breakfast set on four acres with stunning views. Relax on the balcony or take a sunset walk to spy some of Australia’s most iconic native wildlife. De Bortoli Yarra Valley Estate (p47) invites guests to excite their palate with great new wines. These third-generation winemakers offer unique cellar tasting experiences including estate grown labels served with exceptional cheeses. Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley (76) offers a day spa, fine dining restaurant, award-winning accommodation, onsite activities and superb conference and wedding facilities. Dine, taste, indulge, and experience. Bliss. Re’em Yarra Valley (p77) Opened December 2023 on the Helen and Joey vineyard and farm. 12 lavish suites with balconies, 4 super luxury spa suites, fine dining, cellar door, spa treatments, gardens, farm experiences. MORNING ACTIVITIES (select from) STAY OVERNIGHT (select from) Rayner’s Orchard (p50) is one of Dandenong Ranges’ many u-pick farms and, with 450 fruit varieties, it’s fruit all year round! Revel in a fruit-tasting tractor tour and pluck ripe beauties fresh from the tree. Cycling Vine Tours (p46) Taste and buy along the way for spectacular picnics, nibbles and dinner. Guided/self-guided tours along quiet back roads and rail trails through premier wine and food country and beautiful coastal landscapes. Rochford Wines (p50) is much more than a winery. Sip award-winning cool climate wines, ogle breathtaking views and hang out in versatile indoor-outdoor dining and tasting spaces. Cherryhill Orchards (p46) is a leading Australian cherry producer and home to u-pick cherry adventures (in season Nov-Jan). Stroll through lush orchards, pick sun-ripened cherries and indulge in cherryinfused treats. Four Pillars Distillery (p47) Invites guests backstage where the magic happens. Experience a Distiller’s Masterclass and discover how gin is made, how to drink it, and how to taste it like a pro. AFTERNOON ACTIVITIES (select from) Oakridge Wines (p48) Offers award-winning wines, wow factor architecture… and scenery to match. For back vintage tastings served with tasty matched canapés in the private tasting room, reserve a spot in a masterclass. 30
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDk4Njk=