Yalumba The Menzies Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Yalumba, a fiercely independent and family-owned winemaker since 1849, has embraced the magnificent unknown and allowed the land to guide their winemaking journey in the Barossa region. Founded by Samuel Smith, Yalumba's philosophy of respecting the land and venturing into uncharted territory still holds true today. Their commitment to the Barossa is exemplified by the iconic Clocktower and Yalumba Cooperage, where they craft oak barrels with pride. The spirit of innovation runs deep within Yalumba, as seen through the legacy of Fred Caley Smith, who brought sustainable viticulture and winemaking practices to the forefront. Their dedication to sustainability is evident in their implementation of the largest solar system in any Australian winery, and their numerous accolades for sustainable practices, including the Climate Protection Award and the International Award of Excellence for Sustainable Winegrowing. Yalumba is also committed to minimal intervention winemaking, making as little impact on the natural environment as possible. They have achieved 100% vegan-friendly wine status and have been making organic wines since 2005, using Australian-certified organic grapes and practicing environmentally friendly viticulture. Yalumba's dedication to sustainability, innovation and crafting exceptional wines that reflect the terroir has positioned them as a leader in the industry.
The Menzies Cabernet Sauvignon is named after Sir Robert Menzies, the former Australian Prime Minister and renowned red wine enthusiast. During a lunch at the Stock Exchange Club in Adelaide in 1965, Sir Robert Menzies proclaimed the 1961 Yalumba Galway Vintage Special Reserve Claret as the finest Australian red he had ever tasted. This remark garnered attention, and in 1987, when Yalumba produced its inaugural wine from the Menzies Estate Vineyard in Coonawarra, the label of this exceptional wine proudly displayed the recognition it had received.
The Yalumba Menzies Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 is a remarkable wine crafted from an excellent vintage in Coonawarra. The 2018 vintage benefited from a cold winter, allowing the vines to rest longer during dormancy. Above-average rainfall in winter and spring replenished soil moisture and aquifers, while warm spring and summer temperatures with dry weather during ripening resulted in exceptional fruit quality. The influence of the cooling Bonney upwelling and the unique terroir of Coonawarra contribute to the premium nature of this wine.
The Menzies Estate vineyard, located in the heart of Coonawarra's terra rossa strip, benefits from the red sandy loam over limestone soil, which is ideal for growing premium Cabernet Sauvignon. The majority of grapes for the Menzies 2018 come from vines planted in the 1990s, with some parcels from the 1970s. These vines produce small bunches with small berries, providing concentration and a perfect skin-to-juice ratio, resulting in full-bodied red wines.
In terms of tasting notes, the Menzies 2018 showcases a deep crimson color with a plum hue. The wine offers enticing aromas of fresh rosemary, mulberry, ozone, violets and exotic spices. On the palate, it displays the poise and tension that great Cabernet is known for, with complex flavors of blackcurrant, bitter chocolate and mulberries. The wine is wrapped in divine tannins, culminating in a lovely sweet, dark fruit finish. While enjoyable as an elegant full-bodied red wine with decanting in its youth, it also has excellent cellaring potential, with the ability to age gracefully for 15+ years.
To enhance the dining experience, the Menzies Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 pairs wonderfully with dishes such as a chargrilled rib-eye on the bone or a porcini mushroom, thyme and quinoa risotto. The wine has been matured for 21 months in a combination of new French and Hungarian hogsheads and French barriques, with the remaining balance aged in older barrels. This careful treatment contributes to the wine's complexity and balance.
Whether enjoyed now or cellared for years to come, the Yalumba Menzies Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 is a testament to the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of Yalumba, showcasing the best of Coonawarra's Cabernet Sauvignon.
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Cabernet Sauvignon
Country - Australia
Region - Coonawarra, South Australia
Vintage - 2018
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 14%