Spending a weekend in the Yarra Valley and surrounding areas is indulgent, blissful and a good chance to relax. The scenery itself is beautiful, yet only an hours drive away from the CBD. However my favourite part of an escape to the Yarra Valley would have to be exploring what the wineries in the area have to offer.
Coombe Farm is owned by the family of the famous opera singer Dame Nellie Melba. It's one of the oldest vineyard estates in the area and offers free tastings seven days a week (Tuesday and Wednesday is by appointment, I believe). The tasting room is far more relaxed than other nearby wineries. I was there round midday on a Sunday and the two ladies working could not have been more helpful. They were informative, friendly and keen to educate customers about their range of wines. It was such a pleasant experience.
Compared to other tastings at different wineries, Coombe Farm stood out as somewhere more enjoyable. I felt as though I could have sat there for ages, chatting with the staff like old friends and trying wines. In particular it was non-intimidating, so I felt comfortable enough to ask questions that I'd been pondering about wine. As much as I may love drinking wine, I'm not extremely knowledge on the subject and this was a great opportunity to ask and learn more as I tried. In contrast, I felt rushed and a little bit intimidated at other wine tastings in the area.
Next time I visit Coombe Farm, I would love to relax outside on the deck and watch over the vines, with a glass in hand. I'm already dreaming of another lazy Sunday wine exploration! read more