In the heart of the cool climate Yarra Valley wine region, Yarrawood Estate is a family-owned and operated business with premium wines and 360-degree views. Located on the Melba Highway in Yarra Glen, Victoria, Yarrawood is the perfect getaway for wine enthusiasts, families and those looking for a peaceful country escape. With 150 acres of wine property and beautiful vineyards, Yarrawood is a must-see for anyone who wants to experience the best of the Yarra Valley.
History
Yarrawood Estate has been a part of Yarra Valley’s winemaking history since Erich Schwaiger founded the business. His philosophy, based on a love of making great wine, was the foundation of the business. Over the years, Erich’s sons, Tim Schwaiger and Timothy Schwaiger, have continued this legacy and turned Yarrawood into an internationally acclaimed wine company.
The Schwaiger family have always been hands-on and sustainable in their approach to winemaking. With a deep respect for the environment and an understanding of the Yarra Valley’s climate, Yarrawood Estate practices highlight the region’s terroir and look after the vineyards for the long term. This approach to sustainable farming and cool climate wine production has resulted in multiple awards, including Silver Medals at the 2003 Rutherglen Wine Show and 2004 Wine Showcase Magazine, putting Yarrawood at the top of cool climate Yarra Valley wines.
Wines and Varietals
The gem of Yarrawood Estate is its cool-climate wines, all made from grapes grown on the estate. The estate’s wine range is as diverse as it is good, something for everyone.
Yarrawood Estate Chardonnay: Crisp, elegant and fruit driven, this 2011 Silver Medal winner has bright citrus flavours and subtle oak. A favourite among those who like a refined yet vibrant wine.
Yarrawood Estate Pinot Noir: Rich with dark cherries and currant fruits, this wine has won many awards, including a 2003 Silver Medal: velvety texture and complex profile, a cool climate red wine lover’s dream.
Yarrawood Estate Shiraz: A big structured wine with rich dark berry fruits, this Medal-winning Shiraz is known for its depth, balance and spicy undertones. The 2007 Silver Medal cemented its place as one of Victoria’s top Shiraz wines.
Yarrawood Estate Cabernet Sauvignon: Mulberry fruits and oak, this full bodied red shows the estate’s ability to make high quality red wines with character.
Yarrawood Sauvignon Blanc: Zesty acidity and tropical fruit, this 2009 Silver Medal winner is the perfect summer sipper.
The estate also has a range of special vintages, the Yarrawood Tall Tales Range and Yarrawood Barrel Select, which are limited release wines for those who want something different. The wines are made from premium parcels of fruit and hand crafted from the Schwaiger family’s estate grown grapes.
Cellar Door
Visitors to Yarrawood Estate are welcomed into a warm and relaxed environment at the modern wine estate. The Yarrawood Estate Cellar Door is the hub of the visitor experience, with a range of activities and tastings that will immerse you in the world of Yarrawood’s premium wines. A family-friendly environment where everyone, from wine aficionados to casual visitors, can explore the estate’s award-winning wines.
Wine tastings are led by the estate’s team who will guide you through the process of making cool climate wines and share stories of the vineyard’s history.
If you prefer to be outside the cellar door’s lush lawn is the perfect place to relax. Bring a rug, play some lawn games or just sit and enjoy a glass of wine and take in the views of the vineyard and the hills beyond.
Dining at Estate: Grazing Platters and More
You can’t visit Yarrawood Estate without trying the food at the estate’s café. Seasonal, local ingredients are the basis of the menu, along with healthy options and grazing platters to match the wines. Whether you’re in for a light lunch or a full meal, the food here pairs perfectly with a glass of Yarrawood Estate Chardonnay or Yarrawood Estate Shiraz.
The café also has take away wine and coffee if you want to take a bit of Yarrawood home. Whether you’re having a bottle from the Yarrawood Yarra Valley Range or a special vintage from the Yarrawood Tall Tales Range there’s something for everyone.
Family Activities
Yarrawood Estate is a destination for everyone including families. The family friendly winery has activities for all ages to enjoy. Parents can sit back with a wine while the kids play lawn games or explore the grounds. The big lawn is perfect for a family picnic so Yarrawood is the perfect spot for a family afternoon tea or a lazy day out.
Events and Functions
Yarrawood Estate is the perfect location for your special event, whether it’s a wedding, corporate function or private party. The estate has packages to suit all events and all set in the beautiful Yarra Valley hills and views. Whether you’re planning a wedding or a casual family get together Yarrawood Estate’s team will take care of every detail so it’s an event to remember.
Awards and Accolades
Yarrawood Estate has been awarded for its contribution to the wine industry. The wines have won Silver Medals for Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz and are featured in Australian Wine Showcase Magazine and the Wine Industry Directory.
The estate’s success is not just about the wines but also the sustainable practices and mindful winemaking. By slow-ripening the fruit and picking the best parcel of premium fruit, Yarrawood Estate produces wines that are true to the Yarra Valley.
Getting there
Yarrawood Estate is located on the Melba Highway in Yarra Glen, Victoria 3775. It’s an easy drive from Melbourne. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the Yarra Valley wine region and we have plenty of parking and a warm welcome for all.
Opening Hours and Tours
The cellar door is open daily with guided vineyard wine tours of the estate and the vineyard. You can also buy your favourite wines at cellar door prices and online wine sales for those who want to take Yarrawood home.
FAQ
What wines do you make?
We make a range of red and white wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Is Yarrawood Estate family-friendly?
Yes, Yarrawood Estate is a family-friendly winery with lawn games and plenty of space to relax.
What awards have you won?
Silver Medals for Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz from major wine shows.
Can I buy online?
Yes, you can buy Yarrawood Estate wines online and have them delivered to your door.
Where are you located?
Yarrawood Estate is on the Melba Highway in Yarra Glen, Victoria. We’re just 45 minutes from Melbourne.