Yarrawood

Yarrawood Estate might just have the best views in the Yarra Valley.

Set on 150 acres just outside the town of Yarra Glen, the relaxed hilltop estate is surrounded by sweeping views of both the estate’s expansive vineyard and the stunning green hills of the Valley (look carefully and you might be able to spot James Halliday’s house).

A modest indoor building hosts tastings from the winery’s Tall Tales range, but most of the seating is in the expansive outdoor area. Jag a table on the deck, lawn chairs or BYO picnic rug. Acoustic live music adds to the outdoor atmosphere on weekends.

This is a much more relaxed venue than many of the valley’s other wineries, but that doesn’t mean you can’t wile away the afternoon with a long lunch.

Grazing platters are available and feature a mix of Yarra Valley Dairy cheeses, cured meats, ciabatta and chargrilled vegetables, as well as small sharing plates of Italian style meatballs, polenta chips and dukkah-crusted squid.

This is a family-friendly spot: you’ll often spots kids out on the grass playing some cricket or admiring the resident ducks and goats.