De Bortoli Yarra Valley
Located just one hour from Melbourne, the De Bortoli Yarra Valley Estate offers wine enthusiasts a captivating experience in one of Australia's premier cool climate wine regions. This family-owned winery, established in 1987 by Leanne De Bortoli and her husband Steve Webber, has become a cornerstone of Yarra Valley's wine culture.
The Vineyards
The De Bortoli Yarra Valley Estate boasts over 240 hectares of lush vineyards, making it one of the largest in the region. The cool climate and fertile soil provide ideal conditions for growing a diverse range of grape varieties, including:
Classic varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz
Aromatic whites: Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc
Lesser-known varieties: Viognier, Nebbiolo, Sangiovese
The estate's "less is more" approach to winemaking allows each wine to express the unique character and flavor of the Yarra Valley terroir.
Wine Tasting Experience
Visitors to the De Bortoli Cellar Door can indulge in a variety of tasting experiences:
Daily tastings
Open from 10am to 5pm, offering a range of estate-grown wines
Saturday Happy Hour
A special tasting event from 4pm to 6pm
Private wine experiences
Tailored tastings for a more intimate exploration of De Bortoli wines
Wine lovers can sample award-winning varieties, including the estate's renowned cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Locale Restaurant
The winery's on-site restaurant, Locale, reflects the De Bortoli family's Italian heritage. With seating for up to 120 guests, it offers:
Stunning views overlooking the vineyards
Italian-inspired cuisine using local and seasonal produce
A menu featuring homemade pasta and authentic risotto
Wine pairings showcasing De Bortoli's estate-grown wines
Locale has been recognized for its excellence, receiving accolades such as the "Best Food" award from Gourmet Traveller WINE magazine.
Additional Amenities
The De Bortoli Yarra Valley Estate offers more than just wine tasting:
Cheese room
Pair your favorite wines with artisanal cheeses
Picnic facilities
Enjoy the beautifully landscaped gardens
Children's playground
Family-friendly environment
Wedding and function facilities
Host your special events surrounded by vineyards
Accessibility
Wheelchair access to both cellar door and restaurant
Sustainability Initiatives
De Bortoli is committed to sustainable winemaking practices:
Certified by Sustainable Winegrowing Australia
17 TREES initiative: Planting trees to offset carbon emissions
Focus on organic winemaking techniques
Plan Your Visit
Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, the De Bortoli Yarra Valley Estate offers a memorable experience. From award-winning wines to stunning views and exceptional cuisine, this winery encapsulates the essence of the Yarra Valley wine region. Make sure to book in advance for tastings and dining experiences to fully enjoy all that this remarkable estate has to offer.