Yalumba Winery.
A legacy founded in 1847 with a focus on sustainability allowing nature to take the lead pretty much sums up Yalumba. Samuel Smith, a British brewer started the legacy and 6 generations later it has achieved accolades and respect across the planet.
The Menzies Estate comprises of 8 individual and unique vineyards, all offering / contributing different characteristics to this impressive wine. The vineyards are almost all Cabernet with some Merlot and Malbec planted. Coonawarra is considered one of the finest sites in the world to grow Cabernet and this has all the hallmarks of what the region can produce.
Virgilius Viognier 2019- one of the best I’ve tasted.
Swirling the glass will give you the sense of aroma of floral fields, ginger, honey and apricots. All working together to entice you to take a sip. Take your time, enjoy the heady aromas before diving in. The first thing you’ll notice about the palate is the rich smooth mouthfeel and deceptively impressive texture balanced with silky acidity. There is depth and complexity with ample finesse to go round. You are greeted with almost seamless layers ginger, honey, apricots and a delightful nutty note towards the finish.
All the hallmarks of a classic Viognier that stands head and shoulders above the rest- it doesn’t get much better than this- one of the best I’ve tasted.
Pair with most seafood, lobster and crab dishes and don’t be afraid to throw something creamy into the mix. Stir fried Asian prawns and chicken dishes will also work well.
Yalumba ‘Tri Centenary’ Grenache 2018- Perfect for Thanksgiving!
This majestic wine is sourced from some of the oldest Grenache vines in the world, planted in 1889 and imposes elegance and finesse on the drinker from the very beginning. This really is a classic wine and a pleasure to drink. From its almost translucent satin red color that shimmers to the enticing aromatics of raspberry, red currents and cherries, this delivers a special experience.
The palate is focused with a silky-smooth mouthfeel and impressive texture showcasing red fruits of raspberries, cherries, red current and strawberries with a character all of its own with just a hint of sweetness. There is a brightness to it that makes it seductive with impressive balance and structure. Great length on the finish leaving you with a longing to have more. Pair with any game, with a red fruit wine reduction sauce, chicken, braised pork or lamb, stews, lighter Indian dishes and of course Turkey. Cellar out over the next 6 – 8 years.
Yalumba The Menzies Cabernet 2017 – Classic Coonawarra!
Aromas of mint, eucalyptus and menthol wrapped in dark and blue fruits come flooding out of the glass giving you a clue its Coonawarra Cabernet. The distinct eucalyptus note comes from the 100’s of Eucalyptus trees that border the vineyards of and in some cases, actually in between the rows of vines.
The palate showcases a clean crisp Cabernet, not over extracted, just focused on restraint and elegance. One sip with confirm its Coonawarra reflecting the bright red Terra Rossa soil underpinned by a layer of limestone. Your palate is welcomed by layers of Blueberries, Cassis, Olive Tapenade, Plum, Dark Chocolate and secondary notes of mint and subtle cooking herbs.
Solid tannins and wonderful balance leave you with a yearning to drink another glass. This is classic Coonawarra Cabernet and an absolute delight to drink.
Despite being 5 years old this wine will cellar another 20 years without a problem. Will need some decanting now, 2 – 3 hours should give this wine enough time to impress. Can’t wait to drink it in about 10 years, should be spectacular. Pair with your favorite red meat dish, just make sure its deserving of this wine.
Vine to Table 