Yalumba, an iconic name in Australian winemaking, is gearing up to commemorate a significant milestone – 175 years of family ownership and dedication to the craft of winemaking. The renowned winery, founded in 1849 by Samuel Smith and currently under the stewardship of fifth-generation proprietor Robert Hill-Smith, is set to celebrate this momentous occasion with a series of exciting releases, events, and experiences both at its Eden Valley home and beyond.
As one of Australia’s oldest wineries, Yalumba has long been at the forefront of championing Australian and Eden Valley wines, garnering acclaim both nationally and internationally. Reflecting on the significance of the anniversary, Robert Hill-Smith emphasized that it’s not merely a reflection of the past but also a testament to the winery’s unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence in winemaking.
“This anniversary is a celebration of our enduring resilience and our unwavering dedication to perfecting our craft, generation after generation. It acknowledges the countless individuals who have contributed to Yalumba’s legacy over the past three centuries, sharing a passion for our wines, our land, and our industry. As we commemorate 175 years, we look forward with optimism to the future, building upon the foundation laid by those who came before us,” remarked Hill-Smith.
In honor of this significant milestone, Yalumba has unveiled its much-anticipated Museum Collection, showcasing fruit sourced from some of its oldest vines, some of which trace their roots back to 1854. These exceptional vintages, aged for up to two decades, offer a glimpse into the rich heritage and unparalleled quality that define Yalumba’s winemaking tradition.
The winery’s commitment to preserving and championing old vines is exemplified through initiatives like the Old Vine Charter, established in 2007 to formally recognize and protect the region’s ancient vines. With South Australia’s Barossa and Eden Valley regions boasting some of the world’s oldest vines, Yalumba takes pride in its role as a custodian of this invaluable legacy.
“We consider it a privilege to safeguard and nurture these ancient vines, which serve as a testament to our family’s winemaking heritage. These heritage vines embody the essence of authenticity and diversity in wine, reflecting the unique terroir and storied history of our vineyards,” affirmed Hill-Smith.
In addition to the Museum Collection, Yalumba is set to unveil several other notable releases, including the seventh vintage of its flagship wine, Yalumba The Caley Cabernet Sauvignon & Shiraz, and the 50th vintage release of Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Shiraz, dedicated to the esteemed Chris Gerhardy. Further releases are slated to be announced in September, with the highly anticipated availability of The Octavius Old Vine Shiraz through La Place de Bordeaux, underscoring Yalumba’s enduring legacy of excellence and innovation in winemaking.
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