Tucked in the hills of Victoria, Yarra Valley is all about wine tastings, and its vineyards produce some of Australia’s best wines. But beyond the wine culture, a patchwork of artisan breweries and boutique distilleries has emerged for those who want to look beyond the wine glass. From Coldstream Brewery to Watts River Brewing and Four Pillars Gin Distillery, Yarra Valley is becoming a beer lover’s and artisan spirit enthusiast’s paradise. This little secret for craft drinks is the perfect place to visit if you want to make some memories.
Craft Breweries
The brewery scene in Yarra Valley has grown rapidly in recent years, driven by a love of high quality, small batch brewing. The region’s climate and focus on local ingredients has given rise to distilleries and breweries that craft beers and spirits to the land. Yarra Valley’s breweries produce a wide range of craft beers, from IPAs to stouts, that reflect the region’s natural beauty.
- Coldstream Brewery: One of Yarra Valley’s most well-known family owned breweries, Coldstream Brewery combines traditional brewing methods with modern flavours. The brewery has a solid range of quality beers, including their pale ales and seasonal craft brews, making it a must visit for beer lovers looking for the real deal. Located on Pinnacle Lane, it’s a stop that is not to be missed on any brewery tour.
- Napoleone Brewery: Situated alongside their award winning cider production, Napoleone Brewery has made a name for themselves as an artisan brewery that’s pushing the boundaries of beer making. Known for their Australian guest ciders and crisp ales, this is the place to go if you want to combine your beer adventure with a side of cider.
- Watts River Brewing: Watts River Brewing is the gem of Healesville. Founded by batch producers, Watts River combines brewing traditions with a focus on local ingredients. Their approach to brewing is all about experimentation, creating signature beers that reflect the region’s culture. It’s not just about great beer here – you can get into the nitty gritty of the brewing process with guided tours and tastings.
Distilleries: Valley’s Craft Spirits
While Yarra Valley’s wine regions are famous, the area’s boutique distilleries are a must for spirit lovers. Many use local ingredients, botanicals and even olives from nearby olive oil producers. Each sip of gin or whiskey takes you on a journey, connecting the drink to the land.
- Four Pillars Gin Distillery: One of Australia’s most famous gin distilleries, Four Pillars is Yarra Valley’s crown jewel. Near Healesville, this gin distillery is a deep dive into craft spirits. You can do a gin-tasting or cocktail recipe workshop and learn how to make the perfect Aisles cocktail. They’re known for bold flavours and innovation, using lots of local botanicals.
- Alchemy Distillers: This new kid on the block, Alchemy Distillers, produces base spirits like gin and vodka that capture the essence of Yarra Valley. Their small batch process means every bottle shows the care and attention to detail of their craft.
- Bass and Flinders Distillery: While located on the Mornington Peninsula, Bass and Flinders have a reputation for making some of the best spirits in the region. Whether you’re doing Mornington Peninsula Wine Tours or Yarra Valley, a stop at Bass and Flinders is a flavour bomb and a deeper look into craft distillery practices.
Wine, Beer and Spirits
Yarra Valley is a wine lover’s paradise, with everything from wine tastings to Private Yarra Valley Wine Tours. But combining the region’s wine culture with visits to artisan breweries and distilleries is a match made in heaven.
- Punt Road Wines: With award-winning wines and an innovative approach, Punt Road Wines also produces pear and apple ciders, blending wine regions and craft beverages together. You can do a tasting of premium wines with cider or craft beer, all while looking out over the vineyards.
- Kellybrook Winery: Another dual producer of wine and cider, Kellybrook Winery is perfect for the casual wine drinker who wants to try it all. With cheese pairing sessions and tastings, it’s a great spot for a lazy afternoon of wine.
- Oakridge Winery: With cellar door wine tastings and a cellar door restaurant, Oakridge Winery is for those who want a more sophisticated experience. Their beautiful vineyards and gourmet menu make it a perfect destination for foodies and wine lovers.
Valley Experiences
Along with the beer and wine tastings, Yarra Valley has plenty of other experiences to add to your visit. Visits to local cheese makers like Alowyn Gardens give you the chance to see cheese maturation and enjoy cheese with a glass of wine or a cold beer. Yarra Glen will introduce you to the area’s history, and Dame Nellie Melba, the opera singer who once lived here, will add some culture to your trip.
Private tours also get you access to native animals and wildlife reserves where you can see the region’s flora and fauna up close. Being close to Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula means you can do both in one trip, maybe mix Yarra Valley Wine Tours with Mornington Peninsula Wine Tours.
For those looking for a bit of adventure among the vineyards, the Yarra Valley has scenic walks, wildlife reserves and a foodie scene. From private tours to group outings, Yarra Valley has something for everyone.
Visiting Yarra Valley’s breweries and distilleries is an adventure that goes way beyond wine. Whether you’re on a beer adventure, tasting craft spirits, or just soaking up the scenery, the Valley has plenty of experiences to leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
FAQ
Which breweries and distilleries to visit?
Coldstream Brewery, Watts River Brewing, Napoleone Brewery and Four Pillars Gin Distillery are the top picks for visitors looking for artisan breweries and distilleries that showcase the Valley’s brewing heritage and craftsmanship.
Can I do wine tastings and brewery and distillery visits?
Yes. Many Yarra Valley Wine Tours now include visits to wineries and breweries or distilleries so you can taste award winning wines and craft spirits. Private Yarra Valley Wine Tours often have customisable itineraries.
What else is in Yarra Valley?
Apart from breweries and distilleries, Yarra Valley has vineyards, wildlife reserves, and cultural sites, such as Dame Nellie Melba’s old homestead. You can also visit Alowyn Gardens, local cheese makers and olive oil producers.
When can I visit Yarra Valley’s breweries and distilleries?
The Valley is a year round destination. But spring and summer is the best time for outdoor tastings and taking in the scenery. Always book brewery visits and distillery tours before your trip.
Are there guided tours for breweries and distilleries in Yarra Valley?
Yes many breweries and distilleries have guides who will take you through the brewing or distillation process. Some places like Four Pillars Gin Distillery also offer gin making masterclasses so you can experience it all with your senses.