Spring calls for road trips to the picturesque Yarra Valley, and this year there's no better pit stop than the granddaddy of all wineries, Domaine Chandon. The premium sparkling wine producer has launched a series of unique vino tastings just in time for the warmer months, designed to immerse you in the sophisticated world of top-tier bubbly.
Set amidst the lush rolling hills and vines of Chandon's estate, you'll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the Yarra Valley, plus your choice of a curated tasting experience. Which journey will you choose?
Behind the Bubbles
Ever fancied yourself as a winemaker? This experience allows you to step into the shoes of one. With the wisdom and guidance of your host, you'll be challenged to try and recreate Chandon's Vintage Brut blend. Make a day of it and start the morning with a sparkling brunch overlooking the gorgeous Yarra Ranges (think Mimosas, plus sweet and savoury bites) or simply head straight to the riddling hall to get stuck into the workshop. An expert will share the secrets behind blending a base wine, before asking you to start working on your own. Do you have a competitive streak? Prizes will be awarded to the closest master blend. The Behind the Bubbles experience starts at $85 per person (or $140 with brunch) and is a great excuse to round up family or friends for a memorable day out.
Find out more and make a booking here.
Étoile Unveiled
This private tasting experience is all about the luminous universe of Chandon's Étoile. Step into the private dining room to discover the craftsmanship behind the prestige of Étoile – a premium connoisseur's cuvée that Chandon describes as "quintessentially Australian". The immersive session will take you on a journey behind the wine's inception and features a curated tasting of several wines that are part of the Étoile story, including, of course, the masterblend itself. Paired cheeses and canapes are included. The Étoile Unveiled tasting experience costs $90 per person for groups of two to six people.
Find out more and make a booking here.
Indulge with Étoile
If you prefer your bubbly paired with bites, this seven-course degustation menu (paired with Étoile) is an unmissable Chandon experience. Each course highlights the best local produce and seafood available, including oysters, caviar, crayfish and prawns, plus a dessert accompanied by a glass of Ruby Cuvée. Tickets cost $180 per person, and the price includes wine pairings.
Find out more and make a booking here.
Taste with Étoile
Savour a sip of Étoile along with a specially prepared appetiser in the exquisite Chandon Lounge. With sweeping views of the Yarra Range, you'll enjoy the luxury experience of tableside wine service, in-depth explanations about the intricate winemaking behind the masterblend, and a succulent lobster with crustacean mayonnaise, green apple and Yarra Valley caviar. Prices vary depending on whether you'd like to taste Étoile by the glass or bottle, or add on an optional four canapes.
Find out more and make a booking here.
