The food and wine scene in Melbourne has an impressive history, with a viticultural heritage that stretches all the way back to the 1830s, when vines were first being planted down under. However, things have really started to take off in and around this city over the past decade, when wine and gastronomic tourism became one of the region’s main industries.

If you want to get to the heart of what makes this corner of Australia so special for food and wine, you can’t beat a trip out into Yarra Valley, one of the country’s premier wine regions. Here, you’ll get a chance to bask in some seriously beautiful surroundings, while tasting the wines and eating the dishes which are making it one of the New World’s leading locations for seriously fine produce. Here’s our brief guide to a perfect day in this absolutely gorgeous, fascinating place.

 

Up, up and away!

Image Credit: Australia.com

There’s no better or more luxurious way to start a day in Yarra Valley than a balloon flight. Several companies are running private flights in state-of-the-art hot air balloons over Yarra Valley, and with the help of an expert pilot, you’ll have the chance to get a unique, bird’s eye view of the stunning countryside you’ll later explore. No balloon flight is complete with a Champagne breakfast, though, so make sure you take along a classic Yarra sparkling wine, such as the traditional method sparklers from Domain Chandon. This standout winery also produces a range of cured meats and picnic standards, too – so put a hamper together, and relax above the clouds.

https://www.globalballooning.com.au/yarra-valley 

http://www.gowildballooning.com.au/

Foodie’s Paradise

Such a thrilling start to the day would surely give you an appetite. Most of the fine wineries of Yarra Valley feature world class restaurants, but none are placed in settings quite as glamorous as Coombe Farm Estate. This was the residence of Dame Nellie Melba, and the beautiful antiquated furnishings, bejewelled swimming pools and art galleries have been frequented by Hollywood royalty since the days of Charlie Chaplin, who was a regular visitor. The stunning brick restaurant features some of the finest food this side of the country, made by a team of incredibly talented chefs. Don’t miss it!

http://coombeyarravalley.com.au/

 

Bring out the wine

After dinner, it’s time to get to the heart of Yarra Valley, and this means visiting one of the region’s forward thinking, dynamic wineries. Our top recommendation is the same as that of any local – head down to the industrial-chic wine lover’s paradise that is Giant Steps/Innocent Bystander. With fantastically drinkable Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines, and the winery’s signature Moscato (which is the very essence of summer in a glass), you’ll have plenty to sip on in style.

http://www.giantstepswine.com.au/

http://www.innocentbystander.com.au/