As Yalumba embarks on 175 years of family winemaking, the Barossa Valley winery has unveiled the 2019 vintage of its flagship The Octavius Old Vine Shiraz, showcasing the distinct terroir of the region.
Created as a symbol of dedication to time-honoured practices, the release is named after the traditional 100-litre oak barrels known as octaves and blends select parcels from some of the Barossa’s most redeemed vineyards.
Robert Hill-Smith, fifth-generation proprietor, says: “The Octavius Old Vine Shiraz is testament to the craftmanship passed down through generations at Yalumba. With each vintage, we are not only crafting wine but also telling a story that reflects our family’s dedication to the land, the vines, and the art of winemaking.”
The Octavius Shiraz 2019 is said to be a classic Barossa Shiraz, and a great example of the ancient soils and unique microclimate within the region.
The Shiraz is a rich and balanced wine, on the nose it has aromas of black fruits with fragrant vanilla and spice that lingers on the palate.
The Hill-Smith family will also honour the 175th birthday of Yalumba by releasing a small parcel of The Octavius Old Vine Shiraz 2009 from their museum collection.
“We believe that great wine is born in the vineyard. The Octavius Shiraz is a reflection of our commitment to sustainable practices and a deep respect for the environment. It is an expression of the land that has nurtured these vines for generations,” added Hill-Smith.
Set for release on the historic La Place de Bordeaux marketplace distribution system in September, The Octavius Old Vine Shiraz is the only Barossa sold through this network, showcasing grapes from vineyards that date as far back as 1854.
The two vintages mark Yalumba’s second release on La Place de Bordeaux, after the successful debut of its 2018 vintage in September last year.
Yalumba The Octavius 2019 and 2009 will be made available to specific negotiants worldwide, including CVBG, Ulysse Cazabonne, The Wine Merchant, Twins, Sovex, Maison Sichel and Pardela Wines, via La Place de Bordeaux.
For Australia and New Zealand, Samuel Smith & Son and Negociants New Zealand will remain the exclusive distributors.