However, the evening started about 700 kilometres south of Melbourne, with the 2005 Vintage Jansz Premium Cuvee. This Chardonnay/Pinot Noir sparkling wine, made using Methode Champenoise was rich and honeyed but with a clean freshness of apples and pears.
Next up were the Viogniers. We tried the Y Series, the 'Barossa Eden' and the quite simply stunning 2008 Virgilius Viognier. This complex, rich, silky wine has aromas of dried apricots and wonderfully integrated oak. The wine is 100% oak fermented in 5 year old French oak barrels. Which, incidentally are made in their own personal cooperage. Louisa said "by using our own cooperage, we have complete control over the oak, and therefore control over the wine".
Next up were the reds. First was the Patchwork Shiraz, named after the view from the top of the vineyard, down over the valley in Autumn. All the vineyards spread out like a patchwork cloak. However, I was not a fan. It was dull, with grippy tannins and a bitterness which was a little unpleasant, and at around £10, I feel there are better options in the market. The next red was the Scribbler, which was more approachable than the prevoius, and generally easy to drink.
Probably the wine of the evening was 2004 The Octavius Barossa Shiraz. This wine was wonderfully seductive. It's complex blend of oak and berry fruits with spice and a touch of refreshing eucalyptus was delicious. The smooth texture with fine tannins rounded off a very good wine.
After sampling and being told about the current projects, Louisa explained about some future plans of Yalumba. They have recently planted Verdejo (the main grape of Rueda in Spain) vines in the Eden valley where they are hoping to become the pioneer in Australia of this fresh, aromatic grape variety.
A big thanks goes out to Louisa Rose for taking the time to explain more about this fantastic family run Winery.
http://www.yalumba.com/
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