There’s a quiet revolution happening across the Yarra Valley, and Yileena Park is leading from the front — proving that sustainability isn’t a buzzword; it’s just good farming sense. Every vine, every kangaroo, every drop of water here is part of a circular story that ties winemaking back to the land itself.
Bob and Diane Curtis have built their philosophy on minimal interference. They’re not chasing fashion or fast production — they’re nurturing a healthy vineyard ecosystem that practically hums with life. Sheep graze between the rows to keep weeds down, compost replaces synthetic fertilisers, and native vegetation buffers the creeks to protect local biodiversity.
When you talk to the Curtises, you quickly realise their approach isn’t about marketing spin. It’s about stewardship. As Bob says, “If we look after the land, it’ll look after us — and the wines show it.”
- Water management: drip irrigation systems reduce waste, and recycled greywater use.
- Soil health: organic compost and reduced tilling to retain structure and microbes.
- Biodiversity: native bush corridors for birds, bees and, yes, the occasional koala.
- Energy efficiency: solar panels and natural cooling in the cellar.
Walking through the vineyard, you can actually see and feel this harmony — ladybirds flitting around the vines, kangaroo tracks in the damp earth and the subtle hum of bees working the clover. It’s not just a vineyard; it’s a functioning ecosystem in motion.
Award Winning Wines Of Distinction
If sustainability keeps the place alive, the wines of Yileena Park are what make it sing. Every bottle reflects the vineyard’s terroir — that magic combination of soil, slope and soul.
The range here is classic: Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay and a few experimental blends that show the Curtises’ sense of adventure. But don’t be fooled — these are wines of restraint and structure, built to show Yarra Valley’s cool climate finesse.
Bob, who came from a background in aviation before becoming a viticulturist, talks about wine like a craftsman talks about timber: patiently, with respect for what’s already there. “We don’t try to force the grapes to behave,” he told me once, “we just guide them where they want to go.”
That philosophy has paid off. Yileena Park has won a swag of medals at regional shows, with their 2019 Pinot Noir and 2018 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon getting special mention for balance and depth. Critics have described the wines as “elegant without pretension” — a perfect summary of the whole place.
What sets these wines apart is time. The Curtises age their reds longer than most — sometimes up to five years in French oak barrels before release. It’s an expensive and patient approach, but the result is extraordinary complexity and silkiness in the glass.
Cellar Door
There’s something lovely about the Yileena Park cellar door — part rustic retreat, part art gallery, part family living room. Step inside and you’ll be greeted not by a host in uniform, but probably Diane herself, pouring samples and telling stories about the vines, the barrels, or the family dog asleep under the counter.
The cellar door looks out over the valley, with views that stretch across the Dixons Creek hills. On a clear day, you can see wedge-tailed eagles circling above the ranges. It’s an unhurried atmosphere, the kind that encourages proper chats about life and wine rather than scripted tasting notes.
- Fireplace in winter: perfect for red wine tastings when the Yarra chill sets in.
- Outdoor deck seating: overlooking the vineyard — great for sunny afternoons.
- Cheese and dip platters: from local suppliers.
- Wine with house-smoked goodies: the Curtises smoke their own duck, olives and cheese using vine cuttings — a local secret that regulars know.
You’ll want to stay. It’s the kind of place where one tasting becomes an afternoon and one bottle becomes two.
Unique Flavours With Artisanal Skill
While most wineries stop at the bottle, Yileena Park goes further — infusing their winemaking spirit into everything they produce. The cellar stocks a range of gourmet goods, each carrying the Yileena touch.
Think smoked duck breast, cheddar, olives, and almonds, all smoked using old vine cuttings that have served their life in the vineyard. It’s a full-circle approach: the vines that once produced fine wine now flavour the food that complements it.
These items make great picnic partners, especially if you’re touring the Yarra Valley Trail or visiting nearby cellar doors. Pair the smoked duck with a chilled Chardonnay, and you’ve got yourself a meal that sums up what Yileena Park is all about — thoughtful craft, authentic flavour and no shortcuts.
When I first tasted their smoked olives, I thought: This is what slow tastes like. Every jar and bottle here tells a story of patience, respect and a genuine belief that great things shouldn’t be rushed.
Kangaroos And Koalas — The Local Regulars
Unlike most wineries, Yileena Park shares its landscape with some of Australia’s most iconic locals — kangaroos, wombats, kookaburras and even the occasional koala. You’ll see mobs of roos grazing among the vines at dusk, their silhouettes cutting across the hills as the sky turns gold.
Diane often reminds visitors to keep an eye on the gum trees; one particular koala, nicknamed “Henry”, has been a regular for years. He’s usually found snoozing on the upper limbs of a tall manna gum just near the car park.
The Curtises have designed their vineyard to co-exist with wildlife rather than exclude it. Fencing is minimal and positioned to protect without isolating, and vineyard lights are kept dim to maintain nocturnal rhythms.
For visitors with kids or wildlife enthusiasts, this is one of the most family-friendly cellar doors in the region. Bring binoculars and you might even spot:
- Wedge-tailed eagles soaring.
- Eastern grey kangaroos near the dam.
- Kookaburras in the morning mist.
- Crimson rosellas darting between the vines.
It’s the kind of natural theatre that makes every visit unique.
Location and Opening Hours
You’ll find Yileena Park hiding in Dixons Creek, which is only a short drive northeast of Melbourne, nestled right in the heart of the Yarra Valley.
Our Address: 271 Steels Creek Rd, Dixons Creek VIC 3775
When We’re Open:
Thursday to Monday, we’re open from 11 am to 5 pm
On Tuesdays and Wednesdays, we close up shop and give ourselves a break.
Getting here from Yarra Glen isn’t a problem at all – most GPS systems will have you here in no time – but do keep in mind that reception can get patchy around the tighter turns, so just download your map beforehand to be safe. Parking is no hassle at all, and the entrance has a lovely little sign made out of sandstone, surrounded by some beautiful lavender.
If you’re planning a trip around the region, teaming up Yileena Park with some of the other local cellars like De Bortoli Wines, Mandala Wines, or Balgownie Estate could make for a cracking day out tasting all sorts.
Things to Keep in Mind Before You Come
A few practical tips from someone who’s been around the block a few times:
- Weekends are booking territory. The cellar door is small, so we do like to keep things personal by capping group bookings.
- Better bring a light jacket. Even when it’s warm, the Yarra Valley can still surprise you with a cool breeze.
- Pack a picnic rug. There’s a spot right near the dam that gets some nice shade and is perfect for a lazy lunch.
- Give yourself at least 90 minutes. The tasting experience here is pretty relaxed, and that’s part of the charm.
- If you’re the one with the car keys, there’s still plenty to get out of it – kids (and dogs) are welcome, and even the wildlife puts on a show.
FAQ
Do I need to book in advance for a tasting?
Look, it’s a good idea to book, especially on the weekends or during school holidays, just to make sure we’ve got a spot free at the cellar door.
Is Yileena Park family-friendly?
Absolutely – kids are more than welcome, and we even allow dogs, but do keep them on a lead near the vines and wildlife.
Can I bring my own food and eat here?
Oh sure, small picnics are no problem, but do try some of our in-house goodies and local cheese platters – they go down a treat with our wines.
Is Yileena Park open all year round?
Yep, we’re open all year, though if you come in winter, the indoor tasting by the fire is just as lovely as the summer vibes on the deck.
Best time to see the wildlife?
You really don’t want to miss the dawn and dusk shows – kangaroos will be grazing near the dam, and the kookaburras will be putting on a real show as the sun starts to set.
