Our Story
We have been fiercely independent, family owned winemakers since 1849, showcasing the best of the Barossa. For six generations we have embraced the magnificent unknown, letting the land lead the way, and growing our vines with as little interference as possible.
Founding a legacy
Yalumba started with the planting of vines in 1849, by founder Samuel Smith. Under the moonlight, in the heart of the Barossa, he set in place not just the first of many generations of vines, but a philosophy that still holds true today. A genuine respect for the land and a willingness to venture into the unknown.
Cementing our place
We have always had a deep connection to the Barossa. Our long-term vision is manifested in our marble and sandstone Clocktower; a solid monument to our commitment to the region. Our Yalumba Cooperage also shows this passion. It is where we continue the proud tradition of crafting oak barrels and it is the only one of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
Exploring beyond Australia
Third generation Fred Caley Smith, took to the seas on a grand scientific discovery in 1893 and returned with progressive horticultural developments that laid the foundation of sustainable viticulture and winemaking at Yalumba today. We honour his spirit of innovation with our flagship blend The Caley Cabernet & Shiraz.
The blending of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz is a distinctly Australian winemaking practice, producing striking reds that cannot be replicated in France, Germany or Italy due to strict controls around regional blending. Since the 1800s we have been one of the most dedicated pioneers of this method. The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon & Shiraz is a prime example. A coming together of The Great Australian Red, and our core philosophy. With no set formula, we have embraced the magnificent unknown to create a unique and surprising vintage since 1961.
The future of Yalumba
We have always strived to innovate and reduce our impact on the environment. We have the largest solar system in any Australian winery. We have won 43 accolades for our sustainable practices over the years, including the International Award of Excellence for Sustainable Wine Growing & the International Green Apple Gold Award. We want to make sure that future generations will continue to make great wine with minimal intervention, for many decades to come.
🏅 James Suckling 94：
Really impressive depth and poise , this offers aromas of blueberries, cassis, chocolate and dark plums, ahead of a deeply rich palate that is bathed in ripe, fleshy cabernet fruit. The tannins serve the wine well. Drink or hold.
🏅 Decanter 93：
Lower than average winter rainfall and a warmer spring and summer have produced an exuberant Cabernet, with a sweet ripe blueberry and cassis aroma. Sourced from Yalumba's Menzies vineyard in Coonawarra, it retains juicy persistent and savoury tobacco lift and tapenade undertones. Aged in French barriques and hogsheads (20% new), with graphite tannins and pencil shaving notes, it tick all the Cabernet boxes. An out-and-out charmer with a spring in its step.
🏅 Vinous 92：
Shimmering ruby. Displays lush aromas of ripe cherry and cassis, plus hints of cured tobacco, cedary oak and candied flowers. Broad and Pliant on the palate, offering sweet black and blue fruit, baking spice and cola flavors that shows supple texture and a late touch of spiciness. Smooth tannins build slowly on the persistent finish, which is framed by velvety, even tannins.
