When couples start dreaming about a wedding in the Yarra Valley, autumn often steals the spotlight — and it’s easy to see why. As the vineyards shift into warm shades of amber, gold and crimson, the entire region takes on a romantic glow that feels made for celebrating love.
At Rochford Wines, autumn weddings combine breathtaking vineyard views, rich seasonal flavours, and the cosy atmosphere that makes guests feel instantly relaxed. If you’re considering a Yarra Valley wedding during this beautiful time of year, here’s why autumn might be the perfect season for your celebration.
The Colours Are Simply Magical
Autumn transforms the vineyards into a living canvas. Rows of vines change from deep green to vibrant shades of burnt orange, copper, and red, creating a stunning natural backdrop for ceremonies and photographs.
Couples often tell us this is one of the reasons they fell in love with Rochford. The scenery feels cinematic — especially during golden hour, when the sun sets across the vineyard and the landscape glows with warmth.
For photographers, it’s a dream setting. For couples, it creates timeless wedding photos that capture the romance of the Yarra Valley.
Perfect Weather for Celebrating Outdoors
Autumn offers some of the most comfortable wedding weather in the Yarra Valley. The days are typically mild and sunny, while the evenings bring just enough crispness to create a cosy atmosphere.
This balance makes it ideal for:
Vineyard ceremonies surrounded by the vines
Relaxed outdoor cocktail hours with estate wines
Sunset photographs across the vineyard landscape
As the evening cools, receptions move inside where candlelight, warm lighting and incredible food create a beautiful atmosphere for celebrating with your favourite people.
Seasonal Food and Wine Experiences
One of the highlights of an autumn wedding at Rochford Wines is the incredible seasonal dining experience.
Autumn menus naturally lean into comforting, flavour-rich dishes that pair perfectly with estate wines. Think beautiful shared feasts, slow-roasted meats, seasonal vegetables and indulgent desserts designed to bring everyone together around the table.
Paired with Rochford’s award-winning wines, it becomes a dining experience that guests will remember long after the night ends.
The Golden Hour Moments
There’s something special about autumn sunsets in the Yarra Valley. As the sun dips behind the hills, the vineyard is bathed in soft golden light — the perfect moment for couples to step away and capture those just-married photos together.
These quiet moments among the vines often become some of the most treasured memories of the day.
A Season That Feels Romantic and Relaxed
Autumn weddings often have a slightly slower, more intimate feel. The season naturally lends itself to warmth, connection and celebration — whether it’s guests enjoying wine during cocktail hour, laughter echoing across the vineyard, or dancing late into the evening.
It’s the perfect blend of romance, atmosphere and unforgettable scenery.
Planning Your Autumn Wedding at Rochford Wines
If you’re dreaming of a Yarra Valley winery wedding, autumn offers one of the most magical times of year to celebrate.
From the vineyard views to the seasonal dining and golden sunsets, it’s a setting that creates an unforgettable experience for both couples and their guests.
Our team would love to help you bring your wedding vision to life.
✨ Enquire about weddings at Rochford Wines and start planning your Yarra Valley celebration email weddingsales@rochfordwines.com.au
When couples imagine their dream Yarra Valley wedding venue, they picture rolling vineyards, breathtaking mountain views, world-class wine, and timeless elegance. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Rochford Wines — one of the most celebrated and versatile wedding destinations in the heart of the Yarra Valley.
Located just an hour from Melbourne, Rochford Wines combines the natural beauty of the region with exceptional service, award-winning wines, and a team passionate about bringing dream weddings to life. Whether you’re planning an intimate celebration or a grand affair, Rochford offers the perfect balance of romance, sophistication, and country charm.
A Yarra Valley Icon for Weddings
Few Yarra Valley wedding venues capture the spirit of the region quite like Rochford. Set among acres of lush vines and manicured lawns, it’s more than just a venue it’s an experience that immerses you and your guests in the best of the Yarra Valley lifestyle.
From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by panoramic views of vineyards and the Great Dividing Range. The air is filled with the scent of grapes and the sound of clinking glasses — a warm, welcoming atmosphere that sets the tone for an unforgettable celebration.
Couples choose Rochford Wines for its ability to blend luxury and authenticity. It’s elegant without being pretentious, refined yet relaxed — everything a modern couple could want in a Yarra Valley wedding venue.
Ceremony Spaces That Take Your Breath Away
Say “I do” surrounded by the beauty of the vineyards. Rochford offers a variety of ceremony locations designed to suit your style and season.
The Vineyard Lawn: A stunning open-air space framed by rows of vines, ideal for golden-hour ceremonies and sweeping photo backdrops.
The Lake Deck: Exchange vows overlooking the tranquil lake and rolling hills — romantic, serene, and utterly picturesque.
The Conservatory: With floor-to-ceiling windows, The Conservatory provides the perfect indoor ceremony setting while still showcasing the vineyard views. It’s an elegant option for couples who want to embrace the outdoors without worrying about the weather.
Each ceremony location can be styled to match your vision, whether that’s modern minimalism, rustic chic, or timeless romance.
Reception Spaces Designed for Every Celebration
Rochford Wines is renowned for its flexible and beautiful reception options — each space offering a unique atmosphere for celebrating your love.
Isabella’s Restaurant
A sophisticated space featuring high ceilings, soft lighting, and vineyard views through expansive windows. Isabella’s can host up to 240 guests for a seated dinner and is ideal for couples seeking a classic Yarra Valley winery wedding aesthetic.
Il Vigneto Pizzeria
Overlooking the lake and surrounded by vines, Il Vigneto offers a relaxed and inviting setting for smaller weddings of 60 to 120 guests. Think rustic charm, long tables, great wine, and the warmth of an Italian-inspired celebration.
The Deck & The Conservatory
Perfect for cocktail-style receptions, this space gives you the freedom to move between the indoor bar and outdoor garden areas, allowing guests to mingle under fairy lights as the sun sets over the Yarra Ranges.
From intimate elopements to 500-guest celebrations, Rochford Wines has a space to suit every couple and every season.
Culinary Excellence & Award-Winning Wine
One of the standout features of a Rochford Wines wedding is the dining experience. As one of the Yarra Valley’s leading wineries, Rochford prides itself on pairing exceptional wine with gourmet, locally sourced cuisine.
Menus are designed by talented chefs who draw inspiration from the region’s finest produce — creating dishes that are fresh, seasonal, and unforgettable. Couples can choose from alternate-drop menus, share-style feasts, or cocktail dining, all paired perfectly with Rochford’s premium wines.
Guests will enjoy wines made right on-site, from crisp Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to bold Cabernet blends. Every sip tells the story of the Yarra Valley, making your wedding not just a celebration, but a true vineyard experience.
World-Class Service & Dedicated Wedding Team
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but at Rochford Wines you’re in expert hands. The dedicated wedding and events team takes care of every detail — from your initial consultation to the last dance of the night.
Your personal wedding coordinator will guide you through each stage of planning, helping you choose the perfect ceremony location, design your menu, coordinate suppliers, and ensure the day runs flawlessly. Their experience, professionalism, and warmth are what couples consistently praise in their five-star reviews.
At Rochford, you’re not just another booking — you’re part of the family. The team genuinely cares about making your day as seamless and magical as possible.
Picture-Perfect Moments at Every Turn
One of the many reasons Rochford is a leading Yarra Valley wedding venue is its incredible photography opportunities. Every angle of the property is postcard-worthy — from the tree-lined driveway to the sprawling vineyard rows, tranquil lake, and mountain backdrop.
Couples often take advantage of the golden-hour glow that the Yarra Valley is famous for, capturing romantic shots among the vines before heading to the reception. Inside, warm lighting and rustic-modern architecture make for timeless, editorial-style imagery.
If you’ve been scrolling Instagram for Yarra Valley wedding inspo, chances are you’ve already saved a few shots taken at Rochford Wines.
Guest Experience & Convenience
A key advantage of hosting your wedding at Rochford is its proximity to Melbourne — just 60 minutes from the city, yet worlds away in atmosphere. Guests can easily travel by car or private bus, with ample on-site parking available.
Rochford also partners with local accommodation providers in the Yarra Valley to make it easy for guests to stay nearby and truly enjoy the weekend. From boutique cottages to luxury retreats, your wedding can become a full-weekend escape for your friends and family.
On-site, the team provides clear signage, dedicated staff for guest assistance, and a seamless flow between ceremony and reception — ensuring comfort and ease from start to finish.
Wedding Packages That Fit Your Vision
Rochford offers customisable wedding packages designed to simplify planning while giving couples creative freedom. Packages typically include venue hire, a three-course menu or shared dining option, Rochford’s premium wine selection, ceremony setup, and full coordination support.
Special rates are often available for winter weddings or mid-week celebrations, giving couples flexibility with budget and timing. Whether you’re planning a 100-guest seated dinner or an intimate 50-guest gathering, the team tailors each detail to your preferences.
To make the experience even more seamless, Rochford offers tastings, supplier recommendations, and personalised timelines, helping you feel confident every step of the way.
Why Rochford Wines Is a Top Yarra Valley Wedding Venue
When searching for the best Yarra Valley wedding venue, couples often look for four things: 1️⃣ Stunning scenery 2️⃣ Award winning brand 3️⃣ Outstanding service 4️⃣ A relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere
Rochford Wines delivers on all four. It’s a destination that perfectly balances romance and refinement — a venue where every detail feels thoughtfully designed, every glass is perfectly poured, and every moment feels effortless.
Whether you’re drawn to its breathtaking landscapes, culinary excellence, or warm hospitality, Rochford Wines stands proudly among the top Yarra Valley wedding venues — alongside favourites like Stones of the Yarra Valley, Zonzo, and Hubert Estate — but with its own distinctive energy and style.
Plan Your Yarra Valley Wedding at Rochford Wines
If your heart is set on a vineyard wedding in the Yarra Valley, Rochford Wines offers everything you need for a day that’s beautiful, seamless, and uniquely you.
Book a private tour, sip your way through the vineyards, and start envisioning your perfect Yarra Valley wedding at Rochford Wines — where your story becomes part of ours.
As the sun begins its slow descent a little earlier each day and the vineyard leaves paint the Yarra Valley wine region in tones of gold, russet, and amber, there’s no better season to indulge in something deliciously slow, warming, and deeply satisfying. At Isabella’s Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Rochford Wines, we invite you to trade brisk winds for the gentle glow of an open fire – and discover the pleasures of our newly launched winter menu.
A Celebration of Comfort, Craft, and Culinary Curiosity
Curated with care by Executive Chef Ramiz Shaikh and his passionate team in the kitchen, our latest seasonal menu is a love letter to local produce, thoughtful technique, and bold, comforting flavours. This is food designed not just to be eaten, but to be experienced – layered, generous, and plated with artistry.
Returning to the fold are beloved dishes that have won hearts through many winters past in our revered Yarra Valley restaurant, such as the 16-hour slow-cooked beef shoulder, impossibly tender and deeply savoury, and the ever-popular sous vide lamb shoulder, a dish that feels like a warm embrace on a frosty afternoon.
Alongside these familiar favourites, we’re delighted to introduce a new cast of culinary characters including a delicately spiced chicken terrine, beautifully balanced and rich in depth. Pickled baby octopus, playfully paired with a spicy corn salsa and a smoky, velvety eggplant romesco sauce – a dish that dances between texture and tang, boldness and elegance.
For a more leisurely experience, opt to share our new Isabella’s Grazing Board for Two – an abundant spread of artisan meats, cheeses, arancini, and a bottle of Estate wine for just $85. It’s the perfect way to unwind on a crisp afternoon.
For those with dietary considerations, you’ll be pleased to discover a generous selection of gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian delights – each crafted with the same attention to detail and depth of flavour as every item on our menu.
Toast to the Season: Firelight and Fine Spirits Await
After a leisurely lunch, take a few steps into our Spirited Bar, housed within the Cellar Door. With a curated selection of local and international labels, it’s the perfect place to linger over a warming dram or a crisp botanical gin, as the light shifts across the vines and the fire crackles nearby. The perfect pairing to follow a meal, or to simply savour the season.Â
As winter settles over the Yarra Valley, there’s no finer way to embrace the season than with a glass of soul-warming mulled wine. Infused with aromatic spices and bright citrus zest, our mulled wine is winter in a glass – crafted gently simmered, and deeply comforting. Enjoy a complimentary tasting at our Cellar Door, or savour by the glass at Isabella’s Restaurant. Available daily throughout winter at Rochford.
Unwind in the Afternoons: A Delicious Offer Awaits
There’s something deliciously rebellious about escaping the weekday grind for an indulgent afternoon in wine country. From 2-5 PM, Monday through Friday, we invite you to enjoy 25% off your bill when dining at Isabella’s Restaurant.
Take a long lunch, sip slowly, and allow time to stretch just a little longer across the afternoon – our way of saying thank you for choosing to dine with us during the most picturesque time of the year in the Yarra Valley Wine Region.
A View Worth Toasting
Perched amidst Rochford’s rolling vineyards and framed by the majestic Great Dividing Range, Isabella’s Restaurant is more than just a place to dine – it’s an experience that captures the essence of the Yarra Valley. Panoramic views, world-class wines, and a menu designed to celebrate the region – it’s a table worth travelling for.
Don’t forget to consult with our friendly sommeliers, who are always delighted to recommend the perfect wine pairing from our award-winning collection to elevate your meal from memorable to magnificent.
When the sun sets over the Yarra Valley vineyards and the fairy lights begin to twinkle at Rochford Wines, something magical happens. The music starts, and couples find themselves at the heart of their dream celebration – thanks to the incredible team at Tonic DJs.
“It’s more than a gig. It’s the opportunity to give a couple the best day of their life – which we take seriously in the most fun way,” shares the Tonic DJs team, whose passion for creating perfect wedding moments is evident in every event they are part of at Rochford Wines.
A Match Made in Musical Heaven
The supplier partnership between Rochford Wines and Tonic DJs feels natural – both share an unwavering commitment to creating exceptional wedding experiences. “The staff at Rochford are just wonderful. Not only can you see their experience and professionalism in all the work they do, but it is plainly obvious that they love what they do too!”Â
What makes this venue-entertainment duo so special? Picture this: a stunning dance floor centered in the heart of the action, panoramic vineyard views that keep outdoor guests connected to the celebration, and the freedom to keep the music pumping into the night. It’s a recipe for celebration perfection.
Beyond the Basic Beat
Tonic DJs isn’t your average wedding entertainment service. With qualifications in sound engineering, years of event management experience, and a team trained specifically for weddings, they bring a level of expertise that transforms good celebrations into unforgettable ones.
“We want to give couples the wedding they want,” they explain, “so everything we do and say is bespoke to them with the goal of everyone (old, young, and in between) having the best time.”
Their commitment to excellence extends beyond the music. They’re Australia’s most eco-conscious DJs, partnering with Greenfleet to ensure carbon-neutral travel to venues. Plus, with 24-hour support available (though they’re yet to receive that 3 AM call!), couples can rest easy knowing they’re in capable hands.
Creating Your Perfect Soundtrack
How do they craft the perfect playlist for each couple? It’s all about asking the right questions and understanding that every wedding is unique. Whether you’re after “wedding bangers” or have a specific playlist for every hour, Tonic DJs work their magic to create a night that’s uniquely yours.
From timeless classics like “Can’t Help Falling in Love” to modern hits, they’ve mastered the art of reading the room and keeping the dance floor packed. And those must-play favorites? “Nutbush, Mr Brightside, and anything by ABBA!” they reveal with a laugh.
More Than Just Music
What truly sets Tonic DJs apart is their comprehensive approach to wedding entertainment. Their MCs don’t just make announcements – they’re event coordinators, timeline managers, and atmosphere creators all rolled into one.
They’ve introduced unique elements like their audio guest book telephone, the popular ‘Shoe Game’, and even choreographed group dancing that turns strangers into friends on the dance floor. “It’s why understanding the couple, their guests, the event, and reading the room is so important,” they explain.
Magic Moments at Rochford
The venue’s layout at Rochford Wines perfectly complements Tonic DJs’ style. “With the dance floor and bar in the middle of the action, it encourages people to mingle, move around the space, and keep all the fun front and centre,” they share. Those farewell sparkler arches down the brick path? Pure magic every time.
Some of their most memorable moments include watching grandparents become the life of the dance party, surprise musical performances during speeches, and seeing couples completely lost in the moment, surrounded by their loved ones “going nuts” on the dance floor.
Planning Your Perfect Day
For couples planning their wedding at Rochford Wines, Tonic DJs offers this golden advice: “It’s all about you so do it your way! Include things that make you happy and leave out anything that makes you uncomfortable.”
The perfect wedding isn’t about following trends – it’s about creating moments that reflect who you are as a couple. Whether that’s a carefully curated playlist, interactive entertainment elements, or that special final dance when all the guests have gone home, Tonic DJs and Rochford Wines are here to make it happen.
Ready to start planning your perfect wedding soundtrack? The team at Tonic DJs is always available for free, no-obligation advice. After all, as they say, “Having experienced people such as those at Rochford and Tonic DJs available to guide you through it all can be invaluable.”
Q&A with the Tonic DJ team
1. What are some of the most popular first dance songs? Any tips for couples stuck on choosing their song?
‘Can’t Help Falling In Love’ is such a beautiful song and couples are often requesting either the Elvis classic or more modern covers of it. I think a song as well-written as that will remain timeless. More contemporary choices include songs by Ed Sheeran and Chris Stapleton. Increasingly, couples are finding lesser-known songs or alternative versions of well-known songs, which we love to play and see the reaction on guests’ faces.
Tips? If you don’t have an obvious choice then know that there is no need to spend months listening to playlists to find the perfect song…there are just too many great songs out there! Simply decide what mood you want for it (ie. Romantic, playful, elegant etc) and make a short-list using Spotify’s browse, playlists, or radio function and adding songs you like to it. Then, find an evening to pop open a bottle of wine, make a small dance floor somewhere in your house, and play the songs (just to the end of the first chorus is enough) while actually dancing to it. When you hit the right song, you’ll know!
Above all, place as much effort and emphasis on this moment as you like. Your guests probably won’t remember the song, but they will remember the feeling of seeing two people they adore in love and sharing that moment together, so you do you.
2. How does having a great MC help create a seamless and fun wedding reception? What are the benefits of choosing a professional over a family member or friend?
Great question! There’s much more to being an MC than being an MC. We know that MCs need to be engaging, a great public speaker, maybe have some witty banter, and many people may have a friend or family member that matches that description. However…
In our opinion, a great MC should do a lot more than just talk on the microphone. They should be the one that can tie the whole event together, making sure all of the stakeholders (including the venue, vendors, guests, and of course the couple) are prepared for every moment. Think of them as your primary contact throughout the night, ensuring everything that’s arranged is coordinated and going to plan. They should also be there if there are little hiccups throughout the event. For example, perhaps you had to shift sunset photos due to bad weather. The MC should be able to make suggestions regarding the schedule and coordinate everything while keeping the rest of the event running smoothly.
Hiring a professional MC also allows all family and friends to enjoy the party without the pressure of running the event, worrying what’s next, or if they are sober/loose enough to do the job. It’s so easy to lose track of time when you’re a guest so leaving it to the pros is a much better option. There can be a number of formalities and inclusions in a reception and regardless of whether you are going for something formal or more casual, having an expert that knows how to flow from one formality to the next, knows how to encourage the appropriate response from the room, and importantly knows how to direct the newlyweds so that they aren’t left awkwardly wondering what to do, can make a big difference. Delivering all of this in a fun, warm, and relaxed manner is when couples really see it was well worth the relatively small additional cost.
Our approach at Tonic is very ‘client centric’, and we are experts at understanding our brief and helping couples feel comfortable and confident that the reception is in safe hands. Venues also love when we are there to MC too for the same exact reason.
3: Your best advice? What’s your number one piece of advice for couples when planning or on the day of their wedding?
Planning – it’s all about you so do it your way! Include things that make you happy and leave out anything that makes you uncomfortable. Find venues and suppliers that are flexible enough to go with your vision and consider their advice…we’ve done it hundreds of times!
On the day – remember any delays at the start may mean less time for things later. The classic is if everything from the entrances onwards is delayed by just 15 minutes, it can leave you with an hour less time on the dancefloor than you wanted. Our MCs will always try their best to get things back on track, which is one of the reasons venues and couples love us. To enquire and connect with Tonic DJ’s https://www.tonicdjs.com.au/
Start Planning Your Dream Wedding By Booking A Venue Tour at Rochford Wines
Planning your wedding is one of the most exciting journeys you’ll embark on with many big decisions to make, including choosing the perfect venue. While scrolling through pictures can help paint a picture, nothing compares to actually experiencing everything a venue has to offer by seeing the beauty and versatility of the space in person. Booking in a site inspection with any venues that catch your eye is the first step towards crafting your dream wedding. We believe that Summer is the ideal time to visit our picturesque Yarra Valley wedding venue and meet our expert wedding coordinators who will set you up for a seamless planning experience!
Experience Rochford Wines In All Its Summer Glory
This time of year, the Yarra Valley truly shines and offers an electric atmosphere that’s alive with excitement, good vibes and romance, as it’s not only the summer holidays and Christmas time, but also peak Wedding & Engagement Season too. So, if you’re dreaming of having your wedding in 2025 and 2026, we encourage you to visit your venue during that same timeframe as your wedding, to be able to envision every detail and really feel the energy exactly as it will be on your special day.
We encourage all engaged couples to make the most of time off work throughout Summer to celebrate, as your family, friends or bridal party are most likely also available to join you for a day out in the Yarra Valley. Not only can you enjoy a private tour of our stunning winery, but afterwards indulge in a delicious lunch at either of your possible reception venues – the elegant Isabella’s Restaurant or the authentic Italian pizzeria Il Vigneto. Relax and enjoy a wine tasting overlooking the gorgeous landscapes. It’s a fun way to combine wedding planning with quality time spent with loved ones.
What to Expect During Your Venue Tour At Rochford Wines, we believe it’s about more than simply seeing the venue, but feeling the energy and atmosphere, really connecting with the space and truly visualising your dream day. Walking through our stunning grounds, discussing your ideas, and getting answers to all your questions in person will give you the clarity and assurance you need to make this big decision and have you leaving super excited and confident in beginning your planning journey!
A warm welcome from one of our experienced Wedding Coordinators, Nicola or Kaitlyn: Begin your visit with a complimentary glass of prosecco to toast the start of your planning journey.
Personalised Venue Tour: Explore our versatile spaces, including our two reception venues -Isabella’s Restaurant and Il Vigneto, and the multiple ceremony options including The Lawn, The Conservatory, and The Terrace. You’ll also walk through the many picturesque spots throughout our vast winery landscapes for your newlywed and bridal party photoshoots. You’ll truly be able to visualise your day and gain a real sense of how your wedding will unfold.
Expert Guidance: You’ll get to have an in depth conversation with Nicola or Kaitlyn who will talk you through our tailored wedding package options to suit your budget and preferences, learn about you both and your visions for your day, discuss available dates and chat about everything from styling ideas, decor, food and beverage options, entertainment suggestions, nearby accommodation, transport for your guests and much more. You’ll then have plenty of time for asking all the burning questions you may have left surrounding your dream wedding day.
At Rochford Wines, we don’t just offer a venue—we offer guidance and expertise from the moment you step foot on our winery landscapes. Nicola and Kaitlyn have almost 25 years experience working in the industry between them, and they don’t just love weddings, but live and breathe them! Through their passion for all things weddings, combined with their expert guidance, their enjoyment of working in the Yarra Valley and even being in the process of planning their own weddings, we can promise our couples they are in excellent hands in helping to make their visions come to life. Think of them as your wedding sidekicks who will ensure your entire planning process is seamless and enjoyable and you’ll be feeling super inspired and confident from the very first moment you meet on your venue tour, to your farewell exit dance on your wedding night and every touch point in between.
From breathtaking views and versatile spaces to award-winning wines and exceptional catering, Rochford Wines is a top Yarra Valley wedding venue that can be tailored to suit your wedding dreams and promises an unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones.
Schedule your site inspection and take the first step towards planning your big day! We can’t wait to meet and get to know you and begin crafting the wedding you’ve always dreamt of.
Ready to visit? Secure your venue tour date this summer to experience all the beauty our Yarra Valley venue has to offer in these warmer months and begin 2025 with a kickstart to your wedding planning journey!
With the school holidays upon us, now is the perfect time to gather the whole family and head to Rochford Wines for a fantastic sensory experience only the spectacular Yarra Valley can offer. With something for everyone – adults and children alike – we’ve made it easy for you to visit us and explore our beautiful estate, and only an hour’s drive from Melbourne!
Kids eat free
Rochford is the ultimate family-friendly destination, with fresh air and plenty of green, open spaces for the kids (big and small) to have fun in and work up an appetite! And what’s more, over the school holidays, children under 12 will be treated to a free meal at our popular on-site restaurant Isabella’s. *Conditions apply.
For fussy little eaters, there is also our Italian-inspired il Vigneto Pizzeria, which is open on weekends. Serving up all the gourmet pizza and pasta your tastebuds can handle, in a relaxed and casual dining space.
Easter at Rochford
If that’s not enough, with Easter just around the corner, indulge in one of our beautiful hampers and spoil yourself or that special someone. Shop our range of Easter gift hampers, including a decadent block of Cuvee chocolate and your choice of Rochford Estate wines.
We will also be open all Easter long weekend, so bring the family and celebrate together over lunch at either Isabella’s or il Vigneto. Bookings are recommended so you don’t miss out!
Wine tastings and gift shop
At Rochford, we pride ourselves on offering a one-stop Yarra Valley experience like no other. Of course, a visit isn’t complete without sampling our award-winning wines direct from our Rochford Cellar Door. Our highly knowledgeable team of Sommeliers will guide you through our extensive collections and tailor the perfect wine tasting to suit your palette. Follow this with a spot of browsing at our gift shop – from Yarra Valley delicacies and homewares to wine gifts and more, it’s definitely worth checking out.
There really is a lot to see and experience at Rochford, but don’t take our word for it. Head down these school holidays for a wonderfully relaxing day out the whole family will enjoy!
*Valid 11/04/22 until 22/04/22, one free kid’s meal with every main meal purchased. Excludes weekends and public holidays.
Rochford Wines invite our guests to celebrate the Lunar New Year in the Yarra Valley. From 29th January until 6th February, Isabella’s Restaurant will be introducing a traditional Lunar New Year pop up dish to the menu!
As we enter the Chinese New Year, we want to wish our guests many blessings. As the Year of the Tiger comes roaring in, dine with us and indulge in a traditional meal of succulent confit duck leg with a sticky sweet soy glaze accompanied by a fresh crispy noodle salad. Of course, it wouldn’t be a visit to Rochford without our impeccable wine range. We all know duck pairs very well with wine, so enjoy your meal with a wine flight of Rochford Pinot Noir range, including our Single Vineyard wine for just $25.
If you need any other reason to visit us this Lunar New Year, every guest feasting with us will be gifted a lucky red envelope at the conclusion of your dining experience.
There’s really never been a better time to book a trip to Rochford Wines. This experience is available on both our Casual and Semi-Set menus.
We look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful Isabella’s Restaurant and celebrating the Year of the Tiger with you.
As the seasons change, Rochford Wines continue to search for unique and innovative ways to bring joy to everyone who dines with us. Whether that is introducing new engaging winery experiences or continually updating the menus for our two critically-acclaimed restaurants, we are constantly working hard to impress our guests.
With summer in full swing, Rochford is offering a taste of the Yarra Valley with our fresh seasonal menus offering a delicious range of the finest meals for customers to enjoy.
Take a look at some of the menu selections we are offering in our summer menus below, personally recommended by our Executive Chef Ryan Frost to give you an idea of what you can expect to see and taste during your next visit at Rochford Wines.
Isabella’s Restaurant Summer Set Menu (available 11:30am-3pm) includes a mouth-watering main course of slow cooked beef oyster blade with pickled summer cabbage, beetroot, smoked almond and cherry puree. Pairs perfectly with our Rochford Estate ‘la Droite’ Merlot, Cabernet Franc 2019.
il Vigneto Pizzeria Summer Menu brings back the decadent dolci, Nutella calzone. A folded pizza filled with creamy chocolatey Nutella, topped with icing sugar and served with vanilla gelato, best shared between two.
To secure your booking at Isabella’s Restaurant or il Vigneto Pizzeria, please call our friendly staff on (03) 5957 3333 or hit the link below to book online.
To celebrate the release of our latest vintage of Estate Blanc de Blanc, we’re talking all things sparkling.
There’s nothing quite like a bottle of bubbles and fortunately Australia does them darn well. The Yarra Valley, which we call home, is one of the country’s premier sparkling regions, with its weather patterns showing many similarities to northeastern France. It averages an annual rainfall of 750–950mm and while it does get warm during the summer season, the temperature drops off very quickly before harvest. This allows the traditional sparkling grape varieties of pinot noir and chardonnay to really thrive and become wines with those hallmark tart and acidic notes we know and love.
When it comes to sparkling, the cardinal rule is that a wine can only be called Champagne if it’s from the Champagne region, though you’ll see other classifications while shopping for bubbly including blanc de noir and blanc de blanc. Literally translated as ‘white from black’, blanc de noir sparkling is made with pinot noir and/or pinot meunier grapes, and blanc de blanc, as you may well guess, is the opposite: sparkling made with only light-skinned grapes, typically 100% chardonnay.Â
The use of these grape varietals means that while the sparkling wine may wind up looking similar in colour, there is a distinct difference in the taste of a blanc de noir and a blanc de blanc. Generally speaking, a blanc de blanc will be lighter and drier, and have obvious citrus and mineral characteristics, while a blanc de noir will showcase bolder flavours and have slightly more body. And while we love all sparkling (especially when we’re in the mood to celebrate), we’re particularly fond of blanc de blanc as an aperitif with oysters, caviar or smoked salmon. Now that’s something to cheers to.
