Looking for a boutique winery wedding venue for your intimate celebration? We are really spoilt for choice in and around Melbourne for stunning locations and venues but this choice can seem overwhelming. I’ve taken the hard work out of searching for a venue with this list of gorgeous intimate winery wedding venues that really cater well for smaller weddings. Whether you’re searching in the Yarra Valley, out west, up north or down south, I’ve included venues in all areas of Melbourne, I’ve got your back 😉 And in no particular order, here they are:

Goona Warra Vineyard

Situated just outside of Sunbury lies Goona Warra in Melbourne’s West. The stunning gardens, heritage bluestone building and vineyard feel closer to the hills of Tuscany than nearby Melbourne, creating the perfect setting for a romantic, rustic wedding.

Why choose Goona Warra?

• There are several options for your ceremony including outdoors in the courtyard overlooking the vines or downstairs in the cellar room.
• Upstairs in the Grand hall is the ideal space for larger wedding receptions whilst downstairs in the cellar room is perfect for smaller celebrations.
• The are different pricing packages to choose from including for micro weddings.
• The bluestone building, rolling hills and lush vines give it a distinct Italian feel.

The Little Vineyard

Quite literally as the name suggests, The Little Vineyard is a little vineyard situation on the doorstep of the Yarra Valley. They continually look to improve the venue whilst keeping its rustic charm.

Why choose The Little Vineyard?

• Owned and operated by Going Gourmet, food is an integral part of their business. The food is plentiful and delicious! Rest assured, none of your guests will be leaving hungry!
• They have an onsite photo booth which can be built into your package.
• They have recently undergone a makeover, improving the overall aesthetic of the venue.

Balgownie Estate

Balgownie provides a cosy and sophisticated venue for your wedding. Located in the Yarra Valley with views across to the vines and rolling hills.

Why choose Balgownie?

• They specifically cater for smaller weddings with packages for between 8 – 50 guests.
• There is lots of accommodation on site so you and your guests can really make a weekend of it!
• The outdoor terrace provides a gorgeous backdrop for your ceremony. They allow exclusive use of the space, 2 wine barrels and bench seats for the comfort of your guests.
• A short drive up the hill provides some stunning photo ops.

Russo Estate

Modern, yet rustic, Russo Estate located in Diggers Rest in Melbourne’s west can cater for weddings both large and small.

Why choose Russo?

• There are multiple scenic locations to choose from in which to host your wedding ceremony both indoors and out.
• The floor to ceiling windows provide uninterrupted views across the vines.
• There is glamping onsite, perfect for a weekend getaway!

Cleveland Winery

Located in the Macedon Ranges, Cleveland provides a bit of sophistication and rustic charm to any wedding.

Why choose Cleveland?

• Lots of photo opportunities including the long driveway in, amongst the vines and homestead.
• Plenty of accommodation on site
• Upstairs reception hall with gorgeous sweeping views.

The Riverstone Estate

There’s much to love about The Riverstone Estate in the Yarra Valley including the most spectacular views to the valley and the cute bluestone homestead in which to hold your reception.

Why choose Riverstone?

• The low hanging festoon lights and wooden shared seating provide a cosy yet casual feel but the views are to die for!
• The homestead provides a unique reception area, you feel like you’re at someone’s home rather than a wedding venue. The DJ can play on the deck and guests party the night away overlooking the hills.
• One of the event planners will whisk you away for photos amongst the expansive property on a golf buggy with champagne and nibbles on board of course!

Carlei Estate

Little known Carlei Estate in Upper Beaconsfield is a great option for couples seeking a pared back and rustic wedding.

Why choose Carlei?

• Choice of rotunda or the open air barn (La Terrazza) for the ceremony.
• Choice of La Terrazza or the winery room for the reception.
• Some quirky options for photos including old machinery and wooden pallets.

Olivigna

A little slice of Tuscany in Warrandyte lies Olivigna with the perfect space for intimate weddings.

Why choose Olivigna?

• Their “La Terrazza’ area is beautifully light filled looking over the courtyard and private pool.
• There are options for cocktail and sit down.
• Their paddock to plate food philosophy will ensure a delicious feast.

Swallowfields Vineyard

Swallowfields vineyard is a family owned vineyard on the forest edge in Gembrook.

Why choose Swallowfields?

• Lots of options in which to hold the ceremony including at the forest’s edge or under the old oak tree.
• They also self catering or caterers to be brought on site allowing you to be more in control of your budget.
• An in-house stylist will help bring your vision to life if you wish!

The Farm Yarra Valley

On the edge of the Yarra Valley in Warrandyte South lies The Farm offering and elegant yet rustic option for weddings.

Why choose The Farm?

• The indoor reception space is beautifully light filled and a perfect size for small to medium sized weddings.
• Located in Warrandyte, it has a closer proximity to Melbourne, making it easier for guests.
• Photo opportunities in the barrel room.

Farm Vigano

Offering unique and bespoke weddings ceremonies, Farm Vigano in South Morang with its distinct Italian feel can cater for different sized weddings.

Why choose Farm Vigano?

• The food has a distinct Italian influence and who doesn’t love good Italian fare!
• Lots of spots for photos including the amongst olive trees, driveway and gardens.
• Gorgeous option in the Northern suburbs without venturing out of Melbourne.

In conclusion, here are my top picks for winery wedding venues that cater specifically for intimate weddings. Winery weddings are perfect for that rustic and cosy feel with an emphasis on good food and wine, what’s not to love!

All photography by Tamara Little Photography