Kingsford gourmet events to showcase the best of South Australia

Heading for the Barossa? 

Kingsford The Barossa has launched a new nine-part events series showcasing some of South Australia’s leading producers, winemakers, and culinary talent. 

Throughout the year, guests at the luxury homestead will be invited to enjoy immersive experiences, regional flavours and local stories. 

Located under an hour from Adelaide, Kingsford The Barossa is a luxury retreat set on 225 acres of along the banks of the Para River. 

The 2026 program will span two event styles: Gather and Graze Sessions, designed as relaxed 60 to 90 minute pop-in experiences offering the chance to meet local producers, and Signature Events, which are more immersive, sit-down experiences running for two to three hours.

The series will launch on Saturday, February 21, with a relaxed Gather and Graze Session: Peppertree Pizza Party with The Dairyman Barossa’s Michael Wohlstadt alongside Latteria Fresca’s Vincenzo La Montagna. 

To be held in Kingsford’s Peppertree Bar Courtyard from 12.30pm, the session will bring together two respected Barossa makers in an informal setting designed for guests to eat, drink and connect. 

For $60 per person, guests will enjoy a snack on arrival followed by a rolling selection of hand-stretched, wood-fired pizzas made on Kingsford’s house sourdough base and topped with cheeses from The Dairyman and Latteria Fresca. 

On March 7, Kingsford The Barossa will host the first of its Signature Events, an immersive, sit-down dining experience designed to unfold over two to three hours. 

The Wine Vault will host a six-course menu created by culinary director Jake Kellie with a curated selection of Jim Barry wines, including a number of back vintage releases. The cost will be $350 per person. 

Further Gather and Graze sessions will roll out across the season, offering relaxed, producer led experiences designed for casual, meaningful connection (tickets will be $60 per person):

On Saturday, April 18, Kingsford will host a Gather and Graze lunch with Abelsway Farm in the Peppertree Bar. Think a drink on arrival, a snack to start, and a main course featuring the farm's chicken. 

As winter arrives, the series continues on Friday, June 26, a fireside Gather and Graze afternoon in collaboration with Yalumba will be hosted by Jess Hill-Smith to share the family’s 175-year Barossa legacy alongside a selection of Yalumba wines. 

Culinary director Kellie said: “Our goal for 2026 is to create experiences that feel personal, generous, and deeply connected to the Barossa. 

"These events give us the chance to collaborate with incredible local producers and craft moments that people will remember. Whether it’s a relaxed courtyard session or a more refined signature dinner, each event will celebrate the region in its own way, and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead.”

Tickets for the Peppertree Pizza Party are on sale now: https://www.worldsapart.club/independents/kingsfordbarossa/experiences/gather-and-graze-at-kingsford

For future events see kingsfordbarossa.com.au

Image: Jack Fenby 

Turning wine bottles into works of art

Magnums of Yalumba's The Signature blend will play a key role at this year’s Sydney Contemporary art fair as part of a collaboration that blends artistic expression, social inclusion, and one of one of Australia’siconic wines. 

Yalumba will partner with Studio A at this year’s Sydney Contemporary at Carriageworks by providing 50 magnum bottles to be transformed by Studio A artists into works of art. 

The bottles will become part of a limited-edition collection that celebrates individuality and collaboration. 

The collector’s edition magnums will be exhibited at Sydney Contemporary and available for purchase during the fair for $225 each.

Studio A is a Sydney-based social enterprise that champions artists with intellectual disability, supporting them to build sustainable careers and share their voices through art. 

Studio A CEO and artistic director Gabrielle Mordy said the collaboration is “all about creativity, inclusion, and the power of meaningful connections"

"By transforming each magnum of The Signature into a stunning one-of-a-kind artwork, our artists are sharing their creativity and voices with new audiences while raising vital funds that empower them to thrive professionally," she said. 

"We’re thrilled to see such an iconic Australian wine brand champion inclusion and celebrate the unique talents of artists with intellectual disability.”

Yalumba proprietor Robert Hill-Smith said the partnership feels like a natural fit for the winery, which has long valued creativity and community. 

“For 175 years, Yalumba has been guided by a spirit of community and creativity, so it is a privilege to partner with Studio A for Sydney Contemporary," he said. "The transformation of our Signature magnums into works of art is a beautiful expression of individuality and collaboration. 

"We are proud to help provide a platform for these artists to share their remarkable talents and stories with the world.”

All 50 bottles will remain on display for the duration of the fair before being shipped to buyers, with $10,000 in proceeds supporting Studio A’s inclusive arts programs, helping provide vital materials, studio space, and mentorship that nurture the next generation of artists and open doors to opportunity.

See studioa.org.au

Image 1: Studio A artist Lex Tan shows his works of art on The Signature bottles

Wigan handed another key role

Yalumba has named Head Winemaker Sam Wigan as the new custodian of its most celebrated wines, continuing the 50-year Rare & Fine tradition.

Wigan, son of former Peter Lehmann chief winemaker Andrew Wigan, has played a role in the fine wine collection at Yalumba since joining the family winery in 2001, and has led Hill-Smith Family Estates’ winemaking
team since 2023.

A Barossa-born winemaker with a career spanning 25 years, Wigan stated he was honoured to take
custodianship of Yalumba’s iconic collection.

“Yalumba’s Rare & Fine wines are the ultimate expression of our heritage and craftsmanship,” says
Wigan.

“They are a true reflection of our long-standing commitment to regionality and authenticity in wine. I
feel incredibly fortunate to build on that tradition while pushing the boundaries of elegance and character for the future.”

Wigan began his winemaking career in 2000 with his father at Peter Lehmann, followed by a vintage in California before joining Yalumba in 2001.

He worked closely with long-time winemaker Kevin Glastonbury, who crafted Yalumba’s Rare & Fine wines until his retirement in June.  

The collection includes The Signature, FDR1A, and most recently The Caley. 

Pick the brains of one of Australia's leading winemakers

One of the most experienced winemakers in Australia is now available as a consultant.

Few folk know more about the wine industry than Kevin Glastonbury, who spent almost 27 years with Yalumba, including as chief red winemaker.

"I’m excited to announce a new chapter in my wine making journey," Glastonbury said recently on LinkedIn. "I'm open to freelance opportunities as a wine consultant at Blanche Box.

Glastonbury was custodian of Yalumba’s Rare & Fine reds for 27 vintages, shaping some of Australia’s most celebrated wines.

Over his career, the wines under hiscare have received 70+ trophies. Think labels like The Octavius, The Signature and The Caley.

Glastonbury has also been a respected wine judge across multiple Australian wine shows and former chair of the Barossa Wine Show committee.

"With deep experience in grenache, shiraz, cabernet and premium red blending, I’m now available for consultancy services, offering expertise in winemaking, tasting bench, oak regimes and brand-building," he says.

Also in his kitbag are masterclasses, marketing and mentoring.

KG, as he is known, is not only a terrific winemaker, but also a lovely man.

Discover warming winter treats at Yalumba

Winter may have arrived but there is still a busy calendar for wine lovers at one of the Barossa's most popular destinations.

Yalumba's historic Wine Room is ready to welcome visitors indoors for a season of warmth, flavours and fine company.

The winter events begin with The Signature & Museum Release Tasting Lunch on Friday, June 14.

Held in the Signature Cellar, this is an intimate tasting experience hosted by former chief winemaker Louisa Rose.

Guests can enjoy a three-course lunch from Vintners Bar & Grill chef Peter Clarke with paired wines including the new release The Signature 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon & Shiraz along with a previews of the 2025 museum releases.

The SALA Festival at Yalumba runs in August.

South Australia’s Living Artists (SALA) will hold two exhibitions in the Wine Room.

First, the Vintners Art Prize - an annual collaboration with Vintners Bar & Grill - showcases local talent with artworks exploring themes of food, wine, and place. Open to residents and workers of the Barossa and Light Regional Council areas, entries close July 18, with the winner announced on July 23.

There will also be a solo showcase by Yalumba’s own Lisa Tekell. Inspired by Australian fauna and flora, Lisa’s finely detailed oil paintings are connected to the natural world.

Her works this year focus on native flowers in full bloom, as seen in her travels, and will be on 
display throughout the month. Book a wine tasting and explore these local works at the same time.

Winter Wine & Whisky at Yalumba will run on August 8-9 and is a mid-winter celebration of flavour, fire, and craft at Yalumba - including the release of a new Smith’s Angaston Whisky.

Guests can enjoy a guided tasting of the new limited-edition whisky along with a behind-the-scenes look at the Hill-Smith family's historic pot still and fistillery and live cooperage demonstrations with barrels being hand-charred for whisky maturation.

Acoustic music on the Terrace and a hearty fireside meal by Howard’s Fire will also be on offer.

Tickets include a glass of Yalumba wine, the whisky tasting, and a meal.

The Yalumba Wine Room is open daily 10am-5pm at 40 Eden Valley Road, Angaston.
Bookings recommended. www.yalumba.com

Yalumba offers rare back vintages for wine lovers

 

Yalumba has just revealed its second museum release celebration for lovers of mature wines.

Following the success of last year’s inaugural museum release, the family-owned winery has announced the second release launching May 1.

The release showcases rare and fine wine wines from the 2010, 2013 and 2015 vintages, each carefully cellared since being bottled.

Building on Yalumba’s 175-year legacy, the selection includes limited parcels of The Caley Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz, The Octavius Old Vine Shiraz, The Menzies Cabernet Sauvignon, and The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz.

This year’s collection also includes The Tri-Centenary Grenache, made from ancestor vines spanning three centuries.

“For generations, we have been setting aside our finest wines from great vintages, allowing them to mature in the ideal cellaring conditions of the Yalumba Museum,” said fifth-generation proprietor Robert Hill-Smith.

“The 2025 museum release reflects our unwavering commitment to crafting wines of exceptional pedigree and ageing potential. Each bottle tells a story of time, place, and dedication.”

Hill-Smith says the collection "offers wine collectors and connoisseurs the opportunity to experience the complexity, depth, and refined elegance that comes with carefully aged wines".

The wines are available in limited quantities through the Yalumba Wine Room and website, select fine wine retailers, and leading restaurants worldwide.

The wines are:
2013 Yalumba The Caley Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz Museum Release $550
2015 Yalumba The Caley Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz Museum Release $520
2015 Yalumba The Octavius Old Vine Shiraz Museum Release $234
2010 Yalumba The Octavius Old Vine Shiraz Museum Release $252
2015 Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz Museum Release $100
2010 Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz Museum Release $110
2015 Yalumba The Menzies Cabernet Sauvignon Museum Release $85.00
2010 Yalumba The Menzies Cabernet Sauvignon Museum Release $95.00
2015 Yalumba The Tri-Centenary Grenache $100

See Yalumba.com

Yalumba pays tribute to three decades of loyal service

Yalumba will pay tribute to an employee who has given three decades of service when it release the 51st vintage of its icon The Signature red blend next month. 

The 2022 wine is dedicated not to a winemaker, or viticulturist, but to former executive director of sales for Australia and New Zealand, Paul Midolo.

The label of each release of the Barossa Cabernet Shiraz bears the signature and story of an individual who has made a significant contribution to the culture and traditions of Yalumba.

"This year, the decision was easy," said fifth-generation proprietor Robert Hill-Smith ."We are going to honour Paul Midolo, who started 29 years ago with us in Queensland as an area manager and within six months was invited to become a sales manager.

Midolo retired from Australia's oldest family owned winery in December.

"Paul has held a variety of key roles in Australian distribution, building a distinguished career that will be fully documented in time," Hill-Smith said.

"His impact has been immense, and his departure sees a significant amount of humour and wisdom leave our company. He will be deeply missed.

"Paul's ability to build strong relationships across the business with our sales teams, our principal partners, and customers is a testament to him as a person."

Midolo said: "It has been a great, fun journey. The biggest thing I will miss is the people, the interaction, the support. They have made my journey enjoyable."

The Yalumba team is very happy with the 2022 The Signature.

"The 2022 vintage presented cool and mild conditions, allowing the grapes to achieve their full potential, producing a wine of precision and generosity," said Yalumba senior red winemaker Kevin Glastonbury.

"It is very much in keeping with The Signature style that wine connoisseurs have come to know and expect."

Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon & Shiraz 2022 was released on May 1. 

I tasted it this week and it is an absolute ripper: beautifully composed with everything in its place. Elegant but with plenty of flavour; fruit and oak beautifully balanced. The ideal choice to take to a dinner party, or two share with fellow wine lovers. 

Glastonbury advises to decant it to enjoy now, or cellar for 15+ years. RRP $74.

See yalumba.com

A special day as Yalumba celebrates 175 years

Yalumba, Australia’s oldest family-owned winery, today celebrates its 175th anniversary. 

The landmark date highlights a year filled with events and honours, culminating in the release of a special anniversary wine. 

Winery’s staff gathered this week at Yalumba’s ‘Signature vineyard’ for a symbolic tree-planting morning, underscoring Yalumba’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its vision for the future.

“Today has been a meaningful experience for our team to actively contribute to a more sustainable future," said Yalumba winemaker and head of sustainability Louisa Rose. 

"Our group brings together diverse skills and roles, and it’s special for each of them to give back to the land, especially those not typically involved in our daily viticultural work.

“Our Signature Vineyard, with its view over the Barossa Valley, is still relatively young and planted with cabernet and shiraz. We prioritise planting native vegetation around all our vineyards to support biodiversity and enhance vine health. 

"This vineyard is set to play a pivotal role in our future, providing grapes for our most renowned wine, Yalumba The Signature.”

Today, the Hill-Smith family will host an intimate celebration at Yalumba with fellow Barossa winemaking families to toast 175 years of winemaking excellence.

Reflecting on the journey, Robert Hill-Smith, fifth-generation proprietor and chairman, said: “This anniversary is not only a nod to years passed. It is a reflection of our resilience and a commitment to mastering our craft, generation after generation. 

"It also acknowledges the many exceptional fine wine people that have come through the gates of Yalumba across three centuries with shared love for our property, our wines, and our industry.

“Most of all, it is a celebration of an exciting future ahead for our family business and the world of Australian fine wine. While we celebrate our past 175 years, we keep our eyes firmly set on the next 175 as the generations before us have done.”

To mark the anniversary, Yalumba will release a limited-edition anniversary wine, a Shiraz Grenache blend (above), that reflects the character and heritage of Yalumba and Barossa. 

The grapes are sourced from some of Barossa’s oldest vineyards with plantings ranging from 1854 to 1920. 

The wine will be available in magnum format from today. 

The Yalumba 175th Anniversary Shiraz Grenache 2022 magnums are $175 RRP, available at the Yalumba Wine Room and Yalumba.com. 

Image: Robert Hill-Smith, Louisa Rose and Jessica Hill-Smith planting trees at the Yalumba Signature Vineyard, Barossa

Milestone wine release pays tribute to one of the backroom boys

Winemakers are the rock stars of the wine industry.

They are the ones on stage collecting the trophies, making the speeches, taking the headlines.

But just as Bruce Springsteen needs the E Street Band to shine at his brightest, so any successful wine business is a collaboration.

Viticulturists, logistics experts, marketers and myriad behind-the-scene play key roles ino producing quality wines.

One brand that recognises talent across the board is Yalumba, which this year releases the 50th vintage of its The Signature red blend.

Each year The Signature recognises the work of people right across the business - from managing directors to cellar rats.

The newly released 50th vintage The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz is adorned by the signature of Christopher Gerhardy.

Yalumba describes Chris as "a third-generation employee, a gentle, personable, humble human who took a job on the bottling line in 1972. He moved on to looking after dry-goods and packaging, where he has witnessed many changes and innovations over his 51 years of service."

Robert Hill-Smith, head of the family that owns Yalumba, said: “This man is remarkable, and his family have been remarkable contributors for over three generations, serving 145 years cumulatively here at Yalumba.”

You can read Chris' story on the back label of the 2021 vintage, which retails for around $60. I've got a bottle lined-up for tasting this week and will report back. 

 

Sustainability message a wine selling point in Australia

Interest in sustainable wine making and growing continues to grow in Australia.

The Australian Wine Research Institute’s General Manager Industry Development and Support Dr Mardi Longbottom said: “Despite challenging conditions facing the Australian wine industry, we’ve seen a really positive wave of progress within the sustainable winegrowing community, with many producers becoming certified for the first time.

“In addition to members saying, ‘it’s the right thing to do’, momentum has been building due to retailers and hospitality venues globally asking for sustainability credentials or building select ranges or wine lists around sustainability."

Sustainable Winegrowing Australia is the national sustainability program for Australian grape and wine producers and this month released its latest Impact Report, illustrating to retailers and consumers what is involved in making sustainable wine.

The report also highlights the increasing availability of wines that display the Sustainable Winegrowing Australia certified trust mark. This mark assures purchasers that the vineyard and winery have met sustainability practices, verified by an independent third-party audit.

As consumers increasingly factor the environment and planet into their purchase decisions, a recent study confirmed that more than half of regular wine drinkers around the globe say they only trust the sustainability of wines if they have an official certification. A visible trust mark therefore provides confidence that the wine’s claims are validated and can help alleviate any concerns about greenwashing.

As of vintage 2023, the equivalent of 96.1 million bottles of Sustainable Winegrowing Australia-certified wine has been produced2, with more significant growth on the horizon from vintage 2024.

The trust mark makes it easier for consumers and retailers to identify sustainably made wine, helping people to buy better (so they say).

Hill Smith Family Estates head of sustainability Louisa Rose said: “Since vintage 2023, 100% of Hill-Smith Family Estates wines are now certified and progressively displaying the trust mark.

"Sustainable Winegrowing Australia certification has given us an advantage in both domestic and international markets. We are seeing more and more buyers seeking sustainable credentials when considering wines for new listings and tenders.

“While each market or customer is at a different part of the journey, many are moving rapidly in the direction of sustainable certification being a prerequisite to trade - it is easy to imagine a time when being certified sustainable is the norm for all customers, and that won’t be far away.”

Duxton Vineyards and Rewild Wine’s chief winemaker Tony Allen said: “When we launched Rewild wine a few years ago, we worked closely with a major Australian wine retailer who wanted to build more certified sustainable wine brands into their portfolio.

“With our focus on sustainability across every aspect of the process from grape growing and winemaking, through to packaging, we built the Rewild brand, with an ethos of giving back
more than it takes from mother nature. The Sustainable Winegrowing Australia trust mark makes it easier for wine drinkers to choose a product that prioritises the environment and people.”

Image: Yalumba vineyards in the Eden Valley

Yalumba marks 175 years of family excellence

The Hill-Smith family and its Yalumba brand will celebrate 175 years of winemaking on November 17.

In era where businesses sometimes last just a few years, Yalumba will be celebrating 175 years of multi-generational family ownership. 

The Hill-Smith family (above) will mark the anniversary with a series of releases and experiences at its home in Eden Valley and abroad.

Established in 1849 by Samuel Smith and today in the hands of fifth-generation proprietor and industry pioneer Robert Hill-Smith, Yalumba is Australia’s oldest family-owned winery, driven by the spirit of innovation passed down through six generations.

Robert Hill-Smith describes Yalumba’s 175th anniversary as “a genuinely momentous milestone”.

“This anniversary is not only a nod to years passed. It is a reflection of our resilience and a commitment to mastering our craft, generation after generation. It also acknowledges the many exceptional fine wine people that have come through the gates of Yalumba across three centuries, with shared love for our property, our wines, and our industry,” he says. 

“Most of all, it is celebration of an exciting future ahead for our family business and the world of Australian fine wine. While we celebrate our past 175 years, we keep our eyes firmly set on the next 175 as the generations before us have done.”

Yalumba is about to debut a Museum Collection featuring a limited selection of the great vintages of its finest wines, aged up to 20 years. Each of Yalumba’s Museum Collection wines is "testament to the family’s dedication to wines of pedigree and its treasured old vines", which include The Caley Cabernet & Shiraz, The Octavius Old Vine Shiraz, The Menzies Cabernet Sauvignon, and The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon & Shiraz.

The Yalumba Museum Collection will be released with very limited quantities available from the Yalumba Wine Room and partnering fine wine outlets and restaurants around the world.

Image: (L-R) Jessica Hill-Smith, Robert Hill-Smith, Lucy Hill-Smith

Yalumba’s Y Series range heads lo

Yalumba’s popular and affordable Y Series range is taking the lo road. 

Hill Smith Family Wines announced today that the minimal intervention, Vegan-friendly wines from South Australia will feature two lighter wines made with almost half the alcohol of the regular range.

In response to the evolving preferences of wine enthusiasts and the growing trend of moderating alcohol intake, Y Series has launched a chardonnay and a pinot grigio that are lighter in alcohol.

“Wine remains the drink of choice for connection, taste and celebration and we believe that wine lovers should have a lighter option that aligns with their lifestyle choices," said Tahnee Bishop, Y Series brand manager.

“Recent research shows that wine drinkers will often alternate between no, low and full-strength alcohol in the same occasion.

“This means they are in control and can moderate the effects of alcohol, making the most of social events.”

Y Series senior winemaker Heather Fraser is similarly enthusiastic. 

“They represent a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy exceptional wines with a lighter alcohol profile and lower calories, yet still true to their varietal flavours.

“We source the grapes from sustainably managed vineyards in the premium wine growing regions of South Australia, with the wines officially certified through Sustainable Winegrowing Australia.”

The new Y Series Lighter Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio each have 7% alcohol, as opposed to their full-strength counterparts at 12 to 13%. 

Y Series Lighter Chardonnay and Y Series Lighter Pinot Grigio are available from Dan Murphy’s and BWS for RRP $16. 

I first tasted the PG - impressively varietal, light on its feet and enjoyable. I would not immediately have picked it as 7%. 

The Chardonnay, unfortunately, did not work for me. It tasted very much like a wine diluted with water. More work remains to be done.  

Big change at Hill-Smith Family Wines

 

Big news from Hill-Smith Family Estates, whose labels include Yalumba, with the announcement today of the appointment of Sam Wigan as the new head of winemaking ahead of the 2024 vintage. 

Wigan, the son of former Peter Lehmann chief winemaker Andrew Wigan, takes over from Louisa Rose.

Wigan has worked for the Hill-Smith family for 22 years. 

He completed his first vintage in 2000 at Peter Lehmann Wines before travelling to the Sonoma Valley for the northern hemisphere vintage.

The following year, he commenced a traineeship at Yalumba and studied oenology at Charles Sturt University.

He subsequently worked vintages in Marlborough, Rioja and Beaujolais.

Fifth-generation family member and chair Robert Hill-Smith said: “Louisa Rose has mentored and led a strong winemaking team, and now under a new leader in Sam Wigan, we have the chance to showcase and express those experiences in a very tangible and exciting way as the 2024 harvest looms. 

"Sam has shown excellence in his craft and embraces the balance of tradition with innovation across our folio. 

"It is a challenging but exciting time. We have a strong, intelligent team with diverse thinking and a strong belief in crafting fine wine with personality and expression of place." 

Wigan said he was excited to be entrusted with custodianship of the collection of wine brands.

“I have always been deeply passionate and excited by wine,” he said. 

Louisa Rose (above) will remain with the company in "a new leadership role", supporting the wine, sales and marketing teams as head of sustainability and brand ambassador.

Rose has worked for the Hill-Smith family since 1992and was appointed head of winemaking in 2006. 

“To have talent and leadership of Sam’s calibre come through our ranks has filled us with confidence and opportunity," she said. 

“It has been a pleasure working alongside Sam for 22 years; we still have many years working together ahead of us.” 

Hill-Smith Family Estates incorporates Samuel Smith & Son, Negociants Australia, Negociants New Zealand, Negociants International, Free Run Juice, Yalumba Nursery, and wine brands and vineyard estates including Yalumba, Jansz Tasmania, Dalrymple Vineyards, Pewsey Vale Vineyard, Heggies Vineyard, Nautilus Estate of Marlborough, Oxford Landing, Running with Bulls, Winesmiths, Opawa, Smith & Hooper, Ringbolt. mesh, La Maschera, Rogers & Rufus, earthworks, Twin Islands, Hill-Smith Estate, and Parish Vineyard

Australian wine classic honours two major contributors

Yalumba has just released the 49th vintage of its The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz blend and the new release is dedicated to two signatories who have made a major contribution to the company: Yalumba winemaker Kevin Glastonbury and retired viticulturist Robin Nettelbeck.

Fifth-generation proprietor Robert Hill-Smith announced the signatories during his speech at the family winemaker’s annual Christmas celebration on the lawns of Yalumba.

“This legendary pair share the knowledge of Barossa soils and our wines, the commitment to quality and style that ensures the tradition of The Signature is never compromised,” said Hill-Smith.

Since 1962, each vintage release of this iconic Barossa Cabernet and Shiraz blend bears the signature and story of an individual who has made a significant contribution to the culture and traditions of Yalumba. On rare occasions, one vintage is dedicated to dual individuals or a collective.

Hill-Smith said: “This is vini and viti together. In our business, this is a unique and strong combination.

“We are lucky to have people who are so resilient and loyal and enjoy being part of what Yalumba has become and we never take it for granted.

“Over the last decade we have had one constant... stability of talent. People with knowledge of the soils and growers.”

Robin Nettelbeck is a fourth-generation Barossa grape grower who rose to be chief viticulturist overseeing the Hill-Smith Family Estate vineyards. He worked for the family for 45 years and retired last year.

“What an honour and privilege it is to receive this award,” said Nettelbeck .

“With the exception of this Signatory accolade, I believe my greatest achievement is the initiation, growth, and success of the Yalumba Nursery. Through our clonal research and development there has been a seismic shift in grape quality reflected in all our wines.”

Glastonbury began his journey with Yalumba in 1999 and has made the iconic red wines that define Yalumba, including The Caley, The Octavius, The Tri-Centenary and The Signature.

“KG is absolutely committed to his growers, and to the vineyards," said Hill-Smith,

"He pushes the boundaries and is mentor to many, including the young winemakers in our team.”

“I hope my custodianship will be remembered as an era of refinement and great style, Glastonbury said. “Over the years I have watched Signatories accept their honour, teary and humbled - it puts what I do into perspective.”

Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon & Shiraz 2019 is now available through the Yalumba Wine Room, fine wine retailers and at www.yalumba.com with an RRP of $65.00.

New role for wine industry big gun

Former Yalumba chairman and managing director Nick Waterman has popped up on a new wine industry role: as a board member and chairman for The Usual Suspects Collective.

Waterman recently retired from Yalumba/Hill Smith Family Vineyards after over seven years in the top job, but has now joined the Hesketh family's group, which includes labels like Hesketh, Ox Hardy, St John's Road, Miss Kilm, Barratt, Parker Coonawarra Estate, Vickery and The Usual Suspects.

Waterman held key roles within Yalumba/Samuel Smith & Son dating back to 2003, including being GM of distributors Negociants.

"Nick brings a wealth of wine industry knowledge and experience to the Usual Suspects business, and is charged with overseeing strategy as well as challenging and supporting the executive team and wider business," group managing director Jonathon Hesketh said in a statement.

"He will add an enormous amount of value and is widely and universally respected in the industry. But more importantly, Nick is a great cultural fit."

Caley not yet released, but in big demand

When a wine has not yet been released but starts picking up accolades anyone wanting to access some of those bottles for their cellar will need to move quickly.

Yalumba The Caley Cabernet & Shiraz 2018 will be released globally on June 1, but is already in demand after a major triumph.

The classic blend from the family-owned Barossa winery took out the top spot at The Great Australian Red 2023 awards ceremony at the National Wine Centre in Adelaide.

The Great Australian Red is a wine competition created by respected international wine writers Matthew Jukes and Tyson Stelzer to recognise and celebrate the blend that defines Australia: cabernet sauvignon and shiraz.

Yalumba The Caley has become the first wine to take out the top honour four times, having previously won the award in 2014, 2015 and 2022.

"Matthew and Tyson are absolute legends, because they champion this blend as much as I do, and as much as all winemakers who love this blend," said Yalumba senior winemaker Kevin Glastonbury.

"It’s such an honour to receive this again. Two years in a row – I am blown away!”

People interested in purchasing the wine are encouraged to sign up to the Yalumba mailing list at https://www.yalumba.com/ for news and pre-sale opportunities. Mind you, it'll cost you $365 a bottle.

For more information and results visit thegreataustralianred.com

If you want to try before you buy, Yalumba has two tasting experiences available from June 1, offering that opportunity at cellar door.

Bookings through yalumba.com/experiences

Image: Matthew Jukes, Kevin Glastonbury and Tyson Stelzer, courtesy of GATR

Celebrating the many styles of viognier

It is hard to pronounce and often hard to find.

Viognier (vee-on-yay) is a white wine grape variety that is is the only permitted grape for the French appellation Condrieu in the Rhone Valley. 

It is also found in Australia, where Yalumba has spent 40 years exploring various styles of viognier, as well as small plantings in New Zealand, South Africa and the US. 

The grape is sometimes co-fermented with shiraz (Clonakilla being a headliner of this blend), or with other Rhone whites like marsanne, roussanne and clairette. 

Viognier is a low-acid variety that thrives in warmer climates, producing soft, often lush and interesting white wines. 

It also can be used for making dessert-style sweet wines. Expect to find full-bodied and textural wines with apricot, peach and pear flavours to the fore, sometimes alongside ginger and Asian spice notes. 

With International Viognier Day - a Yalumba initiative - just around the corner on April 29, we tasted a range of wines featuring the grape with Yalumba chief winemaker Louisa Rose and Langmeil's James Lindner.

They were: Yalumba Y Series Viognier 2021 (RRP $15), Yalumba Eden Valley Viognier 2020 ($28), Yalumba Organic Viognier 2021 ($22), Langmeil Three Gardens Viognier Marsanne Roussanne 2021 ($20), Guigal Côtes du Rhône White 2019 ($35), Yalumba The Virgilius Viognier 2019 ($50) and Yalumba FSW 8B Botrytis Viognier 2020 ($30).

A fascinating range of styles and price points.

Tasting several of the wines later with food, we discovered just how food-friendly the variety can be with its "refreshing bitterness" when phenolics are used in a positive way during the winemaking process.

Viognier can be paired with anything from a curry to blue cheese, making it one of the most versatile of wine choices.

"With food these wines really come into their own," says Rose.

"More so than sipping on them without food."

Launched last year, International Viognier Day is for producers and enthusiasts all over the world.

Until the 1970s, the only plantings of the variety were in Condrieu and Côte Rôtie but in 1980 Yalumba planted 1.2 hectares of viognier vines in the Eden Valley.

Rose, now Yalumba’s head of winemaking, first encountered viognier when she began working at Yalumba in 1992, and the grape has been a passion project for her over the past 30 years.

Today, Yalumba exports far more viognier to the US and UK than it sells in Australia - and has planted additional vines in regions ranging from the Riverland to the Limestone Coast.

“Viognier is a low-acid variety, but it gives a refreshing character from the phenolics and the tannins which come out of the skins,” explained Rose.

“Viognier is at home with food and is particularly suited as an aperitif. The richness and spice in the Viognier bring out flavours and textures in food that otherwise you sometimes don’t see.

“After one sip, I am thinking about what I want for dinner. It’s an exciting wine from that point of view.

“We have watched the Yalumba family and friends go through the same journey of discovery  as the wines have made their way to hearts and minds all over the world.”

For details see internationalviognierday.com

Grenache for good: a worthy wine initiative

Yalumba, Australia’s oldest family owned winery, has reached the halfway mark in its goal to raise $90,000 to help combat homelessness.

Yalumba launched its Homefullness Grenache 2017 last year to raise funds toward the Forage Built Calyx pods, which were unveiled at Tasting Australia.

“We have been thrilled with the support from the community in buying, sharing and enjoying our grenache for this cause,” said Yalumba senior winemaker Sam Wigan.

“It’s the perfect wine to serve slightly chilled in the warmer months; delicious and approachable with loads of spice, cherry and raspberry.” 

A whopping 50% from each pack sold goes to Forage Built, with the aim of raising $90,000 to fund the build of at least one Forage Built Calyx – a transportable, eco-friendly space for someone to call their own, store their belongings and sleep safely.

The first Calyx pod prototype was unveiled at Tasting Australia last May. 

“We have been very conscious of the challenges that our hospitality industry has faced over the past two years, leaving employees vulnerable with little or no income. Many people are now experiencing homelessness for the first time,” said Wigan.

“We have had a long-standing relationship with Scott and Justin at Forage Supply Co., as well as a long-term partnership with the Hutt St Centre. When we heard about the Forage Built initiative, we were excited to get on board and help raise the necessary funds.”

Yalumba x Forage Built Homefullness Grenache 2017 packs of 12 bottles are available purchase from the Yalumba website and Wine Room for $120. That's just $10 a bottle.

See www.yalumba.com/shop/gifts/homefullness

Why distinguished sites matter to Australia's family wineries

The French word terroir encompasses the natural environment in which a wine is produced, including factors such as the soil, topography, and climate.

They believe the tastes and textures of a wine are majorly influenced by where is is grown: the terroir.

Indigenous Australians have a similar concept, known as pangkarra.

Four of Australia's leading family wineries go together for Zoom tastings this week in which they explored what they call "distinguished sites" - vineyards that produce top-quality fruit each vintage. 

Howard Park, Taylors, Brown Brothers and Yalumba looked at key sites in Western Australia, the Clare Valley, Victoria and the Barossa, discussing the key elements involved in growing fruit for benchmark wines. 

All four wineries are part of the group Australia's First Families of Wine and they each presented a shiraz and a cabernet sauvignon that reflected their terroir. Blend PR put together the event.

The representatives were Nic Bowen (below) from Howard Park talking about vineyards in Margaret River and the Great Southern, Mitchell Taylor (above) from Taylors on the St Andrews vineyard in Clare, Tracy Taylor from Yalumba looking at the Barossa and Eden valleys and Coonawarra, and Andrew Harris from Brown Brothers talking about various sites in regional Victoria. 

Yalumba alone has no fewer than 123 grape growers on its books - in addition to its estate vineyards - so it needs to know where its best sites are for wines like The Cigar, a Coonawarra cabernet, and the Paradox shiraz. 

Similarly, Brown Brothers has access to a wide range of resources for its Patricia Shiraz and Cabernet, while Mitchell Taylor concentrated on the "diversities and synergies" of just one standout vineyard.

Bowen looked at they key elements in the Scottsdale Shiraz from the Great Southern and the Leston cabernet from Margaret River. 

"This was a great collaboration between like-minded family wineries," said Mitchell Taylor. "It was an excellent opportunity to give members of the wine trade and media a look at our various and different vineyards." 

Regional expression, and terroir, are alive and well in Australia.

# Some of my favourite wines of the night are pictured above.

A brand-new look for one of Australia's favourite wine ranges

Established in 1849, Yalumba is Australia’s oldest family-owned winery. One of its star turns is the Yalumba Y Series - arguably the best-value range in Australia. 

Yalumba has just launched a new look for its Y Series collection, including a new label design and brand campaign.

The refreshed look is now hitting retail shelves and heroes the distinctive signature letter ‘Y’. 

Made with fruit from a number of South Australian regions, the Yalumba Y Series wines are sustainably produced in "an approachable, medium-bodied style".

Yalumba marketing manager Jacinta Gibson said: “The Y Series features a broad collection of refreshing, fruit-driven wines from a trusted family-owned winery."

“Consumers can confidently explore different varieties in their purest form at an affordable price point.” 

The Yalumba Y Series range has an RRP of $15 a bottle, but can sometimes be found on special.

The collection features 12 red and white wine varieties, including a new wine – Y Series Pinot Noir. 

The new label designs features 12 original pieces of artwork created by South Australian artist Cindy Durant. Each artwork is inspired by her visits to Yalumba and depict a layer of the vineyard, from sun to soil to wind.

All Y Series wines are vegan friendly, gluten free and 100% wild fermented.

For more details see Yalumba.com