The Yarra Valley Dairy, established in 1955, has evolved from a small family farm into a well-known Australian cheese manufacturer and retailer, distributing its artisan cheeses across Australia.
Visit the cheese shop
Yarra Valley Dairy offers delicious cheeses. Nestled in the heart of a picturesque dairy farm in the Yarra Valley, it’s a perfect stop on your Yarra Valley wine tour from Melbourne to taste and enjoy some of Australia’s finest traditional cheeses.
The handcrafted cheese range pays homage to some of the traditional styles of soft cheeses from France and Italy. This delicious range is made from goat and cow’s milk from surrounding farms.
Try the signature marinated cheese, soaked in olive oil and infused with thyme and bay leaves, or the delicious white mold or fresh curd cheeses. Famous cheeses from other major Australian producers are also available in the farm’s excellent cheese shop and cafe.
The menu featuring fresh cheese has options for all types of cheese lovers, including cheese hotpots, gourmet toasts, and boards. Fine wines from small vineyards are available for tasting and purchase, along with all cheeses.
The dairy also offers the finest local produce for sale, a testament to the richness of the Yarra Valley region. At Yarra Valley Dairy, you can enjoy delicious food and good wine while admiring the beautiful views of the surrounding valley, endless vineyards, and vast farmland.
Cheese-making process
The cheeses produced at the Yarra Valley factory are handmade from fresh cow and goat milk and high-quality Australian ingredients.
All ingredients used in the products, such as locally grown garlic, fresh herbs, olive oil, and canola oil, are sourced from Australia. A crop utilized in the process of manufacturing cheese is the exception. None of the products contain sugar or gluten, except for the natural sweetness of honey.
The company’s production knowledgeable staff is responsible for the entire production and packaging process. They get fresh milk daily, pasteurize it, extrude it, mince garlic and herbs, manually pour the butter into tins, and seal each before shipping.
The Yarra Valley Dairy in the Yarra Valley offers a delightful cheese-tasting experience.
Cheese tastings and reservations
Several artisan cheeses are available for tasting. There are two options: a $5 tasting, where you can choose four cheeses, or a $15 premium tasting, where you can sample the full range of cheeses and some of Australia’s finest varieties.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with the store to discuss the possibility of organizing groups of more than eight people due to space limitations.
The Wine Shop
The shop offers wines from boutique Yarra Valley wineries who make small batches with passion and expertise. Customers can taste these unique wines that are only available in this region.
The cheese shop offers wines by the bottle or glass to enjoy the gourmet experience.
Eat in
Reservations are not available, and there is no outdoor seating. Try your luck to get a seat and enjoy the exceptional views of the Yarra Valley. The restaurant has communal tables where guests can enjoy cheese platters, locally-produced smoked trout, and locally-made snacks. In addition, there are side dishes such as quince paste, spiced figs, gherkins, and local olives.
Fresh local bread and various snacks are served with each meal. Guests can also enjoy local wine by the glass and bottled beer and cider from nearby breweries. The coffee shop offers locally produced coffee, tea, and guest treats.
Retail
Various premium products, including artisan cheeses, are available in the Yarra Valley. A wide selection of goods from local companies makes it easy to fill shelves with quality products. The selection includes handmade cheese boards, small-batch wines, pickles and jams from renowned regional producers, and a variety of cheese accessories.
Yarra Valley Dairy is committed to supporting local producers and sourcing products with care, attention, and quality ingredients.
FAQ
What is the Yarra Valley Dairy known for?
It’s renowned for handcrafted artisan cheeses made from local cow and goat milk, inspired by traditional French and Italian styles.
Can I taste cheeses at the dairy?
Yes, you can choose a $5 tasting of four cheeses or a $15 premium tasting of the full range and select Australian varieties.
Do I need a reservation to dine in?
No, reservations aren’t available, and seating is limited. Guests are seated at communal tables indoors only.
What other products are sold at the dairy?
You’ll find small-batch wines, local produce, handmade cheese boards, pickles, jams, and cheese accessories.
Where does the dairy source its ingredients?
All ingredients are Australian-sourced, except one imported crop, and the cheeses contain no added sugar or gluten.
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