The 2014 Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz is a benchmark Barossa Cabernet Shiraz from one of Australia's most historic family-owned wineries, continuing a style that has become one of Yalumba's defining wines. The Signature has been produced since 1962, with every vintage dedicated to an individual who has made an important contribution to Yalumba; the 2014 vintage honours Chris Greening, recognising his many years with the company. The blend is 57% Cabernet Sauvignon and 43% Shiraz, combining Cabernet's blackcurrant fruit, structure and herbal complexity with the richness and generosity of Barossa Shiraz. It was matured for approximately 21 months in French, Hungarian and American oak, with 32% new oak, creating a distinctly Australian expression of the classic Cabernet-Shiraz blend.
The 2014 is developing beautifully, with blackcurrant, blackberry and dark plum joined by liquorice, dark chocolate, cedar, tobacco, dried herbs, leather and subtle mint. The palate remains concentrated and full-bodied, but the tannins have become increasingly polished, allowing the wine's savoury secondary characters to emerge alongside its still-generous fruit. Critical acclaim has been excellent: Andrew Caillard MW awarded 97 Points, James Halliday 96 Points, Campbell Mattinson at The Wine Front 96 Points, Wine Orbit 96 Points and Decanter 95 Points. Halliday described it as a standout from a challenging vintage and gave a drinking horizon extending to 2040, while Campbell Mattinson particularly praised its density, tannin structure and long finish.
