Red Hill Estate — Attraction in Melbourne

I don’t usually leave reviews, but I felt this experience warranted one. I recently celebrated my birthday on the 4th of October at Red Hill Winery. Having visited previously for a wine tasting, I was curious to try their lunch and decided to host a celebration there with a group of close friends — 9 for wine tasting and 12 for lunch, with the $65 per person banquet.

Amongst our group were seasoned wine and food lovers who’ve done tastings across Australia and internationally, so we came in with high hopes and an appreciation for quality. Unfortunately, those expectations were quickly dashed.

The wine tasting experience was especially disappointing. Bob, who led the tasting, gave the impression he wasn't particularly welcoming or interested in engaging with our group. One of my friends asked a question about the Chardonnay and wanted to take a photo so she could purchase it later and have it shipped to Brisbane. Instead of listening, Bob responded defensively, telling her she couldn't get it at Dan Murphy's — which wasn’t even part of her question. Another friend had a similar experience when inquiring about wine availability, only to receive another dismissive, condescending answer.

We were also told we’d be tasting both Shiraz and Pinot Noir, but only Pinot Noir was served. Overall, we felt we were being treated more like a rowdy crowd rather than a group genuinely interested in the wine — despite being respectful and excited about the tasting.

To add to the frustration, we asked if the tasting fee could be waived with bottle purchases (as is standard at many wineries when buying in bulk), but were told only if we bought 12 or more bottles — again, in a tone that made it seem like we’d never visited a winery before. Given the poor experience, we opted not to buy.

Lunch sadly didn’t make up for it. For $65 per person, we were served very basic pasta and pizza that tasted average at best. We were also surprised to find charges for extras like parmesan and chili oil — which were not disclosed beforehand. We were even charged a cake fee for bringing our own birthday cake, something other wineries often waive or offset.

In total, I spent $1,066 for lunch and $90 for the tasting — and left with deep regret. My friends had flown interstate to celebrate with me, and I had hoped to give them a memorable wine and food experience. Unfortunately, it was memorable for all the wrong reasons.

The staff clearly need more training, especially in hospitality and customer interaction. Based on my experiences at wineries throughout Victoria, other states, and even Europe, I can honestly say this is not a place I would return to or recommend. Very...

We recently had the pleasure of dining at Red Hill Estate, and it was an unforgettable experience from start to finish.

We kicked off our meal with the wood oven bread, which was nothing short of sensational. Warm, crusty, and perfectly paired with a drizzle of olive oil, it set the stage for the incredible meal to come. The burrata cheese was so creamy and fresh, and it melted in your mouth like a dream, while the prosciutto was a showstopper—exceptionally fresh, thinly sliced, and packed with flavor.

The drinks selection was a true highlight. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or someone just looking to try something new, their thoughtfully curated list has something for everyone. We sipped on a few selections that perfectly complemented the meal, elevating the entire experience.

For mains, Red Hill Estate truly outdid itself. The Veg Pizza was bursting with fresh, vibrant toppings, while the Prosciutto Pizza was rich with savory goodness, the perfect balance of flavors. The risotto was perfectly creamy, with a texture so smooth you could taste the care put into every spoonful. The gnocchi was pillowy soft, just the right level of tenderness, and packed with a richness that left us craving more.

When it came to dessert, we were delighted by the delicate, tasty, and scrumptious tiramisu and cannolis. Each dish was presented beautifully and was the perfect way to end a meal that was already impressive.

Despite the restaurant being incredibly busy, the staff were nothing short of exceptional. They were friendly, warm, and bubbly, going out of their way to ensure we had everything we needed. They even engaged in polite, pleasant conversation, making the whole experience feel special and personal.

The combination of fantastic food, excellent drinks, and impeccable service made our visit to Red Hill Estate truly unforgettable. If you're looking for a place that offers not only delicious meals but an inviting atmosphere with incredible staff, this is it! Highly...

There was only one disaster about our visit to this place, and that is that I cannot for the life of me remember the name of the incredible gentleman who guided us through our wine tasting experience. From the moment we stepped into the winery, we were greeted with warmth and hospitality. The ambiance was inviting, with a charming rustic decor that created a cozy and intimate setting.

We were treated to a delightful wine tasting journey, exploring six exquisite wines that showcased the winery's expertise and dedication to their craft. The range of wines we sampled was impressive, covering a variety of flavors and styles. From the crisp and refreshing Pinot Grigio and Gris to the bold and velvety Cabernet Sauvignon, each wine had its own distinct personality and character.

The personalized approach made the wine tasting experience even more memorable. Our guide tailored the experience to our preferences, taking into account our preferences and offering recommendations based on our taste preferences. We were encouraged to savor each sip, allowing the flavors to unfold on our palates, and the experience felt truly immersive and educational.

Overall, our visit to this winery for a wine tasting was a delightful and enriching experience. Despite my inability to recall our guide's name, his knowledge, passion, and genuine enthusiasm for the wines left a lasting impression. We left the winery with a newfound appreciation for the artistry of winemaking and a box of six! I would highly recommend this winery to any wine lover seeking a personalized and exceptional...