Vintages Release: March 29, 2014

Yalumba ‘The Strapper’ Shiraz 2011
Barossa, South Australia $19.95 (295873) 14.0% alcohol
Yalumba sports two wines in the vaunted Langton’s Classification that identifies Australia’s most sought-after wines. This opens with roasted herb, briary berry and peppery spice aromas prior to bathing the palate with a structured, balanced wash of tangy black berry, ripe, juicy mulberry and spice cake. The lengthy finish layers on good moderating acidity and a truckload of lip-smacking charm. Pour with grilled rack of lamb and root veggies. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: April 26, 2014

Yalumba ‘Eden Valley’ Viognier 2012
Eden Valley, South Australia $24.95 (954644) 14.0% alcohol
You won’t find better Viognier from anywhere in the world at this price or from the new world at any price —it’s from an outstanding vintage and will improve in bottle over the next decade. An alluring nose of apricot and nectarine wreathed in floral notes opens this medium-bodied, creamy-smooth gem. Layered flavours of apricot and white peach mingle with racy lemon and hints of blood orange on the palate infusing the lengthy, balanced and beautiful aftertaste. It’s an outstanding wine with depth, elegance and great potential. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: TBD

Yalumba ‘Y Series’ Viognier 2013
South Australia $16.95 (624502) 13.5% alcohol
Yalumba is a member of the exclusive Australia’s First Families of Wine that identifies Australian premiere family-owned producers. Lovely aromas of honeysuckle, pit fruit and mineral notes herald a clean, crisp and refreshing river of nectarine and apricot wreathed in minerality. It’s mid weight with good mouth feel and a delicious, lingering finish that’s on the hunt for a pan-seared fish or a bowl of steamed mussels. There’s good value here. (Vic Harradine)