Yalumba Samuel’s Collection Barossa Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon 2022

Winery Background and History

Established in 1849 by Samuel Smith, Yalumba is Australia’s oldest family-owned winery. Over six generations, the Hill-Smith family has maintained a legacy of independence and innovation, crafting wines that reflect the diverse terroirs of South Australia. The name “Yalumba” is derived from the Aboriginal word meaning “all the land around,” signifying the winery’s deep connection to its land and heritage. 

Producer and Winemaker

Yalumba remains under the stewardship of the Hill-Smith family, with Robert Hill-Smith leading as the fifth-generation chairman. The chief winemaker, Louisa Rose, joined Yalumba in 1992 and has been instrumental in shaping the winery’s distinctive style. Renowned for her expertise, particularly with Viognier, Louisa ensures that each wine embodies Yalumba’s commitment to quality and regional expression.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The Barossa region, encompassing both Barossa Valley and Eden Valley, is renowned for its diverse terroirs. The vineyards for this Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon are situated at elevations ranging from 300 to 400 meters, offering a variety of microclimates. The 2022 growing season began with a wet winter and spring, providing plenty of water throughout the root zone for the vines to access. Mild temperatures during spring and early summer allowed for a long, even ripening period, resulting in grapes with rich flavors and balanced acidity. 

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

This wine is a blend of Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. The exact percentages are not specified. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

The grapes underwent a pre-fermentation cold soak for 1-3 days to enhance color and flavor extraction. Fermentation commenced with wild yeasts present on the grape skins, followed by the addition of cultured winery yeasts to complete the process. The wine was matured for 10 months in a combination of French, Hungarian, and American oak barrels, with 15% being new oak, to impart complexity and structure.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.5% 

Tasting Notes

This wine presents a deep, dark hue with aromas of ripe plum and cherry from the Shiraz, complemented by leafy, cedary spice and red currant notes from the Cabernet Sauvignon. The palate is inviting and soft, showcasing flavors of redcurrants intertwined with hints of rum and raisin, followed by subtle cedar undertones. The wine is generous and ethereal, offering a harmonious balance between fruit and spice.

Food & Wine Pairing

This versatile blend pairs excellently with a variety of dishes. For seafood lovers, prawn linguine with chili, garlic, and rocket offers a delightful match. Vegetarians might enjoy a kale, black bean, and avocado burrito bowl. Meat dishes such as sweet potato and black bean burgers or a traditional lamb roast with all the trimmings also complement the wine’s rich flavors. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and structural nuances, serve this wine at 16-18°C (60-65°F). Decanting for about an hour before serving can enhance its expressive character, allowing it to open up and reveal its layered flavors. Using large, tulip-shaped red wine glasses will further elevate the tasting experience.

Storage and Aging Potential

With proper cellaring conditions—cool, dark, and stable environments—this wine can gracefully age for 5-7 years from the vintage date. Over time, it will develop additional complexity, with tertiary notes of leather, earth, and dried herbs complementing its existing flavor profile.

Scores

• Wine Spectator: 92 points