2023 Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz

A richer, more opulent rendition of Yalumba’s Signature that has a long and quite sumptuous conclusion.

A classic blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz first produced in 1962, Yalumba’s Signature pays homage each vintage to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the culture and traditions of Yalumba. The 2023 vintage’s signatory is Yalumba’s trade marketing manager, Peter Sawrey who has been responsible for writing the last 32 Signature back labels. This year’s release marks the 52nd vintage of Yalumba The Signature.
From vines with an average age of 23 years the 2023 Signature is a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon and 45% Shiraz with maturation taking place in a combination of French barriques and Hungarian hogsheads (22% of which was new oak) for a period of 19 months. Impenetrable inky black heart with a near equally deep dark red black hue. A mix of blackcurrant, blackberry and liquorice aromas engulf the nostrils. Vanillin cedar, tobacco, hints of dark chocolate and bay leaf follow on. Rich, opulent and full bodied, the seductive palate is flooded with blackcurrant, liquorice, dark plum and lush blackberry fruits. Spicy vanillin cedar, subtle earthy tobacco and bay leaf accents linger across the back half. Velvety yet underlyingly sturdy tannin structure. Deep and powerful it has a long and quite sumptuous conclusion.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Other Reviews……
Yalumba's iconic blend sees 55/45% cabernet sauvignon/shiraz with the '23 release. Again, the release impresses with its fruit purity, elegance and cellaring potential. Deep blackberry, satsuma plum and black cherry fruit with underlying layers of brown spice, cedar, tobacco, pencil case, roast meats, dried herbs and black olive tapenade. Beautifully composed on the palate with a firm yet kinetic, fine-grained tannin structure, lacy acidity and a finish that sails on gracefully for ages. A cracking release. Drink by 2055.
96 Points
Dave Brookes - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

We might be yet to learn who is to be honoured with the 2023 Signature, but whomsoever it is should be well pleased. This is a cracking release, one of their best. An opaque centre with a dark maroon rim, there is still vanillin oak evident on the nose, but it is integrating well. The aromas include notes of dried herbs, black fruits, graphite, licorice, mocha, chocolate, plums and cassis. This is balanced, youthful, offering real persistence and coiled power. The palate sees the move to gorgeous chocolate notes. A wine with serious length, there is much to love here.
96 Points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com