Yalumba Y Series Viognier 2022

Winery Background and History

Established in 1849 by Samuel Smith, Yalumba is Australia’s oldest family-owned winery, located in the Barossa Valley of South Australia. Over its long history, Yalumba has built a reputation for innovation and excellence, producing a diverse range of wines that reflect the unique terroirs of South Australia. The Y Series represents a collection of youthful and vibrant wines, crafted to showcase the varietal characteristics and the region’s winemaking heritage. Yalumba has pioneered the growing and making of Viognier in Australia, planting the first commercial vines in the Eden Valley in 1980. With over four decades of experience, they have become leaders in working with this alluring variety.

Producer and Winemaker

Yalumba remains under the stewardship of the Hill-Smith family, with Robert Hill-Smith serving as the current proprietor. The winemaking team, led by Chief Winemaker Louisa Rose, emphasizes a balance between traditional methods and modern techniques. Their philosophy focuses on minimal intervention, allowing the expression of the vineyard’s unique characteristics in each bottle.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The grapes for the Y Series Viognier are sourced from various vineyards across South Australia, including regions like Barossa Valley and Wrattonbully. These areas are renowned for their Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild winters, providing ideal conditions for growing Viognier. The diverse soil types, ranging from sandy loam to red clay, contribute to the complexity and depth of the wine.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• Viognier: 100%

Vinification & Aging Methods

After harvest, the Viognier grapes are gently pressed, and the juices handled with controlled oxidation. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks utilizing the naturally occurring indigenous vineyard yeasts, creating layers of flavor, complexity, and richness. After fermentation, the wine remains on lees for three months, adding creaminess and palate richness. All Y Series wines are made with wild fermentation, and the winemakers take a minimalistic approach with human intervention. The resulting wines are natural, vegan, gluten-free, and met by complex flavors that represent Yalumba’s rich history of winemaking. 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.5% 

Tasting Notes

The 2022 Y Series Viognier presents a fragrant nose of sliced oranges, papayas, apricots, and honeysuckle. On the palate, it is fleshy and fruity, with a full body and creamy, ripe stone fruit flavors. The wine offers white flower undertones and a fresh, rich mid-palate of apricot, pears, and honeysuckle, leading to a pleasing finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Viognier pairs exceptionally well with bold Southeast Asian dishes, such as Thai curry. Its aromatic profile and fresh acidity complement the rich flavors and spices found in these cuisines, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Service Methods and Temperatures

For optimal enjoyment, serve the Y Series Viognier at a temperature between 10-12°C (50-54°F). Decanting is not necessary for this youthful wine; however, allowing it to breathe for a few minutes after pouring can help in expressing its aromatic complexity. Using medium-sized white wine glasses will concentrate the bouquet and guide the wine to the appropriate areas of the palate, enhancing the tasting experience.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2022 Y Series Viognier is crafted for immediate enjoyment but can benefit from short-term cellaring. When stored in optimal conditions—a cool, dark environment with stable temperatures—the wine can develop additional complexity over the next 2 to 3 years. As it matures, expect the primary fruit flavors to integrate more seamlessly, offering a nuanced tasting experience.

Scores

• James Suckling: 88 points