The 2023 Yalumba The Signature continues the legacy of one of Australia's most iconic red wine blends. First released in 1962, The Signature represents the pinnacle of Yalumba's winemaking philosophy, crafted from the finest vineyard parcels and dedicated each year to an individual who has made a lasting contribution to the culture and traditions of Australia's oldest family-owned winery. The 2023 vintage honours Peter Sawrey, Trade Marketing Manager, whose creativity, wit, and long-standing contribution to Yalumba included writing an impressive 32 Signature back labels, with this release being his final one.
The 2023 growing season was characterised by above-average winter and spring rainfall, resulting in a cooler and later vintage than usual. Budburst occurred three to four weeks later than average, while mild conditions throughout the season allowed the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly. The result was fruit with pristine flavours, exceptional freshness, and beautiful natural acidity.
The blend comprises 55% Cabernet Sauvignon and 45% Shiraz, sourced entirely from premium Barossa Valley vineyards. Cabernet Sauvignon was selected from three vineyards to provide the lifted aromatics and structural backbone for which The Signature is renowned. The Shiraz component was sourced from three vineyards of varying vine age, including plantings dating back to 1935, contributing richness, depth, and complexity.
Wild-fermented in open-top stainless steel fermenters and matured for 19 months in French and Hungarian oak, including 22% new barriques and hogsheads, the wine displays outstanding balance between fruit purity, oak integration, and fine tannin structure.
A stunning scarlet red with a vibrant crimson hue, the bouquet is detailed and complex, offering aromas of blackcurrant, black cherry, dark chocolate, and olive tapenade. As the wine opens, lifted floral notes, sage, and liquorice emerge, adding further sophistication. The palate is beautifully structured and elegant, revealing layers of coffee, blue fruits, spice, and savoury complexity. Long, flowing tannins provide both refinement and longevity, making this one of the most stylish recent releases of The Signature.
Approachable now with decanting, the 2023 vintage possesses the balance, freshness, and structure to evolve gracefully for at least 15 years, continuing the remarkable legacy of this benchmark Australian blend.
Winery: Yalumba
Region: Barossa Valley, South Australia
Blend: 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Shiraz
Vintage: 2023
Alcohol: 14.5%
Maturation: 19 months in French and Hungarian oak (22% new oak)
Closure: Cork
Cellaring: Enjoy now or cellar for 15+ years
Food Pairing: Beef and mushroom pie with potato mash, roast lamb, beef Wellington, braised beef cheeks, or mushroom and thyme risotto.
