Coldstream Hills Cellar Door

Coldstream Hills Cellar Door, in the heart of the Yarra Valley, is an Australian icon. Quality, unique wines and the legacy of James Halliday are what set us apart. Not just our flagship wines but our warm welcome, too. Come and escape into one of the country’s best wine regions and get an in-depth look at cool climate wines. Here, you can indulge in a full cellar door experience, a tour of the winery, our viticulture and the range of award-winning wines that have made Coldstream Hills a household name in Australian wine.

History

Coldstream Hills was established in 1985 by James Halliday, one of Australia’s most renowned winemakers and wine writers. Halliday, known as the Australian wine maestro, had one aim – to make premium cool climate wines that showcase the Yarra Valley. The winery started on Maddens Lane, where Halliday’s focus on quality and his knowledge of viticulture set it apart from the rest. Over time, it grew to become a household name, internationally recognised for its single vineyard wines and a must-visit in the Yarra Valley.
Today, Coldstream Hills is part of the Treasury Wine Estates family, preserving Halliday’s original vision while evolving with modern winemaking techniques. Its long history has attracted wine enthusiasts and regular visitors eager to experience the legacy of Halliday’s craftsmanship — the benchmark for Yarra Valley winemaking.

A Focus on Cool-Climate Wines

Coldstream Hills is a leading cool climate wine producer, thanks to its location in one of Australia’s best wine regions. The winery’s viticulture and focus on quality produce elegant wines, including its flagship varietals that showcase the Yarra Valley. Halliday’s philosophy focused on cool-climate varietals — the Hills Sauvignon Blanc and Yarra Valley Chardonnay have received high praise for their complexity and finesse. Each vintage delivers wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.

Location and Accessibility

Maddens Lane, Upper Yarra — only 45 minutes from Melbourne. The scenic drive through the Yarra Valley makes it ideal for a day trip. The cellar door offers tasting options and stunning valley views, where every sip is paired with the beauty of the landscape.

Wine Experience

Visitors are treated to a premium wine experience at Coldstream Hills. The cellar door team offers personal tastings for both first-timers and seasoned drinkers. Each tasting includes insights into the winemaking process and Halliday’s history as a legendary winemaker, ensuring every visit is memorable.

Iconic Wines

Coldstream Hills is renowned for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, favourites among visitors and locals alike. The Sauvignon Blanc also stands out with bright acidity and refined flavour notes. Guests can enjoy reserve wines and exclusive releases, each bottle expressing the Yarra Valley terroir.

From Vineyard to Glass

At the Coldstream Hills Cellar Door, you can explore multiple tasting options. For a deeper experience, private wine tours are available, guided by knowledgeable staff who take guests through the full range — from sparkling to boutique vintages. Each tasting showcases the winemaking and viticulture that make Coldstream Hills one of Australia’s finest wineries.

Food Options

While Coldstream Hills doesn’t have a full restaurant, the cellar door offers local produce to pair with tastings. Guests can enjoy a cheese and charcuterie board in the cellar or visit nearby restaurants to continue exploring the region’s culinary offerings.

Top Things to Do

Coldstream Hills Cellar Door is a destination in itself, but the Yarra Valley has so much more to offer — so make a day of it. Start with a wine tasting at Coldstream Hills, then head to other top wineries and vineyards in the area, each with their own unique wines and cellar door experiences. If you’re a wine lover and want to get to know the region better, join the Coldstream Hills Wine Club for access to seasonal events and special releases, or explore through private wine tours for a more personalised experience.
The Yarra Valley also offers scenic walking trails, art galleries and local markets, so there’s plenty to do. Guests can take a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards, visit nearby national parks or explore local breweries and distilleries for a different kind of tasting experience. The area strikes a perfect balance of natural beauty and cultural attractions, making Coldstream Hills the ideal place to begin your Yarra Valley adventure.