On Sale: $59.94 (was: $64.94)*
‘The Signature’ is a downright classic Cab/Shiraz blend from one of Australia’s most prestigious old wineries, Yalumba, founded over 150 years ago. This particular cuvee happens to be the closest to their heart though, as every year since 1962 it has been dedicated to a different employee. In 2016 that was their longtime winemaker Louisa Rose, and it comes from four vineyards in Barossa, with vines up to 90+ years old.
'The Signature’ could really be a signature wine for the entire region, made in “very much a classic claret style” (Wine Advocate). That makes this the perfect Aussie red for those who are a bit skeptical given the country’s reputation for bigger, more blowsy wines, as it has an elegance we normally associate with a Bordeaux (With Shiraz playing the part of Merlot in the blend).
With a long history developing vineyards, and inspiring new winemaking talent, Yalumba is “producing some of Australia's best red wines” (Vinous) today, and is still managed by the original family. Per the Wine Advocate, “Yalumba’s top wines should not be overlooked amongst the limelight-hogging young-gun wines.” Old school stalwarts like Yalumba went out of fashion for a bit, but they continue to hold the torch for balance and longevity. This ‘Signature’ Cab/Shiraz has the flavor to punch through big roasts and braises, and it will continue to evolve for many, many years to come. Cheers!
96 points, Decanter: "Cool summer and autumn nights tempered warm days in 2016, producing great intensity to the iodine and espresso-edged nose and palate here. With silky blackberry and currant, fleshier mulberry and refreshing blood plum, the palate is motile, its juicy persistence a foil to the creamy, savoury oak (French barriques, Hungarian and American hogsheads, 28% new) and dynamic snare of ripe but present tannins. A fitting tribute to Yalumba's chief winemaker, Louisa Rose. (Drink between 2020-2036)"
96 points, James Suckling: "A very youthful vintage, this is taut and will age very well. Aromas of blackcurrants, tar, blackberries and baking spices lead to a palate that has such an intense, gently smoky thread with a succulent, juicy red-plum, berry and spice finish. Light espresso. Super long-aging Signature here. A blend of Barossa cabernet sauvignon and shiraz."
*Offer publication date November 23, 2021. Pricing and availability subject to change.