Tucked away in the hills of Emerald, Emersleigh Estate is a boutique vineyard and winery that blends handcrafted winemaking with heartfelt hospitality. Located on the southern edge of the Yarra Valley, this hidden gem is the passion project of John and Michelle Wall, who planted their first vines in 1996 and have been nurturing their dream ever since.

The vineyard spans just over six acres and is planted to Pinot Noir (three clones), Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Shiraz. These cool-climate varietals form the foundation of Emersleigh’s two distinct wine labels: Emersleigh, dedicated exclusively to sparkling wines made from estate-grown fruit, and Off The Wall, a playful range of still wines that occasionally features fruit from other select vineyards.

Sparkling wine is the soul of Emersleigh. John’s fascination with méthode traditionnelle is evident in every bottle—from Sans Année Brut to vintage cuvées—crafted with patience, precision, and a deep appreciation for the celebratory nature of bubbles. The estate’s sparkling wines are sealed with a crown cap rather than cork, allowing for extended aging and a modern twist on tradition.

The cellar door, completed in 2011, is open Sundays and select public holidays from 11am to 5pm. Guests are welcomed into a relaxed, rustic tasting room with an adjoining outdoor patio that overlooks the vineyard. Tastings are intimate and often hosted by the owners themselves, offering a personal connection to the wines and the story behind them. Cheese platters and seasonal specials round out the experience, making it a perfect weekend escape just minutes from Emerald and a short drive from Monbulk.

Whether you’re sipping a crisp sparkling on the patio, exploring the nuanced Pinot Noir, or discovering a new favourite from the Off The Wall range, Emersleigh Estate invites you to slow down, savour the moment, and celebrate the art of boutique winemaking.