The 2018 Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 3L is an impressive large-format release of one of Australia's most enduring Cabernet Shiraz blends from the Barossa Valley. The 2018 marks the 48th vintage of The Signature and celebrates 60 years since the wine was first produced in 1962, with this vintage honouring Nick Waterman, Yalumba's former Managing Director. The blend is 54% Cabernet Sauvignon and 46% Shiraz, with Cabernet sourced from four Barossa vineyards and Shiraz drawn from several sites, including vines planted as far back as 1945. The excellent 2018 growing season combined warm, dry days with cool nights, producing ripe fruit while maintaining freshness and natural acidity. The wine was matured for 21 months in French, Hungarian and American oak, with 33% new oak.
The 2018 is a particularly complete expression of The Signature, combining blackcurrant, blackberry, blueberry and red plum with mint, cedar, dark chocolate, earth, spice and subtle leafy complexity. Cabernet provides structure and definition while Shiraz fills the mid-palate with richness and generosity, supported by fine, persistent tannins and refreshing acidity. Critical reception has been outstanding: Bob Campbell awarded 97 Points, Halliday Wine Companion 96 Points, The Wine Advocate 96 Points and Decanter 95 Points. The Wine Advocate regarded it as one of the more impressive recent releases of The Signature, highlighting the way Shiraz's generosity fits seamlessly around the structure of Cabernet, while Halliday praised its concentration, balance and considerable ageing potential.
