Blended of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon and 46% Shiraz, the 2004 The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz gives a deep garnet-purple color and pronounced notes of kirsch, creme de cassis, dried plums, Mediterranean herbs and a whiff of capsicum. Full-bodied and with ample flesh, it’s well structured with firm fine tannins and crisp acid, going long and earthy in the finish. Drinking now, it should cellar to 2017+. Remaining one of Australia’s oldest, largest and most prestigious family owned companies, Yalumba’s top wines should not be overlooked amongst the limelight-hogging young-gun wines that have sprung-up around the Barossa in the last 20 years. Some of the region’s finest vineyards are owned or contracted by this company. They’ve also contributed considerably to the quality of vine material available throughout the region with the impressive developments at the Yalumba nursery. Regarding the current releases, The Signature and Octavius won’t be released in 2007. I was informed that in 2008 all their reds were picked before the first week of March but there were no single site wines made in 2008 because it was felt the fruit wasn’t expressing the sites. 2009 was a good year and everything will be released, though winemaker Louisa Rose confessed that their early maturing Shiraz suffered the most in the 2009 heat spike.Importer: Negociants USA, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-0993

A lifted hint of mint on the nose comes from the Cabernet, while raspberry and spice come from the Shiraz. Both contribute to the full, complete mouthfeel and lush, creamy texture. The long finish displays some smoky barrel notes, but overall the wood here is well integrated. Should be a classic when it’s released in 2008. Drink 2010–2020 or beyond.——J.C.(11/1/2007)—— 93