The 2022 Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz is one of Australia’s benchmark red blends and a flagship wine from the historic Barossa Valley producer Yalumba. First released in 1962, The Signature has become an icon of Australian winemaking, showcasing the classic partnership between Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz while honouring individuals who have made a significant contribution to the Yalumba family and culture. The 2022 vintage recognises Paul Midolo, Yalumba’s long-serving Executive Director of Sales for Australia and New Zealand.
The 2022 blend comprises 51% Cabernet Sauvignon and 49% Shiraz sourced entirely from Barossa Valley vineyards, including parcels from old vines with an average age approaching 50 years. The wine was matured for approximately 18 months in French barriques and Hungarian hogsheads, with around 21% new oak, creating a beautifully polished yet terroir-driven expression.
The nose is intensely aromatic and layered, showing blackberry, blackcurrant, mulberry and dark cherry alongside cedar, tobacco, bay leaf, mint, dark chocolate and savoury spice. Critics have praised the 2022 vintage for its freshness and refinement, with Erin Larkin describing it as one of the finest releases to date, highlighting notes of brine, crushed shells and remarkable mineral freshness. Dave Brookes awarded the wine 96 points, noting its elegant flow of blackberry, plum and black cherry fruit framed by spice, cedar and olive tapenade.
On the palate, it is full-bodied, rich and deeply concentrated while remaining remarkably composed and graceful. Layers of cassis, dark plum, blueberry and black cherry are supported by fine-grained tannins, vibrant acidity and beautifully integrated oak. The Cabernet provides structure, definition and longevity, while the Shiraz contributes plush texture, spice and generosity. The finish is exceptionally long and seamless, carrying notes of cedar, roasting meats, dark chocolate, dried herbs and savoury complexity.
The 3-litre Museum Release format is particularly significant for collectors. Large-format bottles mature more slowly and consistently than standard bottles, preserving freshness and complexity while enhancing long-term ageing potential. It also makes an impressive centrepiece for serious cellars, gifting and milestone celebrations.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, The Signature remains one of the great classics of Australian wine and one of the finest examples of the historic Cabernet–Shiraz blend. Compared to Penfolds Bin 389, it often shows more Barossa generosity and plushness; compared to purely varietal Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz, it delivers a uniquely Australian balance of structure, spice and richness. The 2022 vintage is especially exciting because it combines concentration, elegance and remarkable freshness, with many critics calling it one of the greatest Signature releases ever produced. In 3L format, this becomes a serious collector’s wine capable of evolving beautifully for 25–35+ years. Drink from 2028 onwards or decant extensively if opening young. Perfect with prime rib, slow-roasted lamb, game meats or long celebratory dinners.
