Yalumba (Aboriginal for “all the land around”) is the oldest family owned winery in Australia dating back to 1849 when Samuel Smith planted his first vines and thus named the patch.
This week’s Wine Wednesday feature, the 2012 Yalumba “Y Series” Shiraz/Viognier comes with 160 plus years of wine making experience. Yalumba also has the only privately owned cooperage (make their own barrels) in the southern hemisphere. I stumbled on this quote from winemaker Louisa Rose, “We’re not trying to keep shareholders happy. We have the freedom to play with new wine styles because we are creating our own future.” Yalumba and the Smith family seem to have struck a unique balance in preserving their legacy while continuing to be innovative. I find their outlook most compelling.
I enjoy Shiraz, but also Viognier and it was the addition of the Viognier that caused me to take this one home. Viognier is a very distinct varietal and I was curious as to what it would bring to the table especially since the wine was just 4% Viognier. What I appreciate here is the deft blend. On the nose, dark fruit, plum and blackberry, slightly floral (that may be the Viognier). On the palate, medium bodied, very fruity with a touch of black pepper. It had a rounder mouthfeel than I’ve come to expect from Shiraz that I found quite pleasant, again I suspect the touch of Viognier. Yalumba leads the way for Viognier in Australia and I’m curious to try their Viognier as a varietal wine and will look for it next visit to the wine shop.
But, back to this wine – it’s barbecue’s best friend. Presenting a little lighter than most Shiraz, this one is perfect for summer. We enjoyed this with grilled pork chops slathered in Bone Suckin' Sauce.. Also try it with Chipotle Chili Sloppy Joes. Sloppy Joes? Wine with Sloppy Joes? Why not? The price point here, $12.99, makes this a great week night wine or perfect for entertaining a crowd - great value! To print or save the recipe, click the link below.
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