Until recently in Australia, there was no definition to prescribe what factors must be met to label an ‘old vine’ as such. This meant it was open to interpretation and potentially misleading claims. Wine-lovers seeking the high quality complexity of older vines were unable to know how old a wine labelled as an ‘old vine’ wine actually was. To improve clarity and honesty in wine labelling, in 2007, we created the Old Vine Charter and in 2009, it evolved into an industry-recognised Charter with the help of the Barossa Grape & Wine Association.
From 2007 onward, any of our wines that used ‘Old Vine’ nomenclature, either on a front label, back label, or in supporting documents or descriptions, comply with the Yalumba Old Vine Charter. Vines with minimum 35 years of age fall within the definitions of the Old Vine Charter.
Vine age is just one factor in crafting exceptional wine
While vine age may often be used as an indicator of wine quality, it is not a prerequisite, just as variety, region or winemaking techniques, by themselves, do not create a superior wine. Meticulous winemaking, expertise in the vineyards and exceptional cellar staff are just a few of the puzzle pieces that come together to create a great wine.
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An Old Vine
An Old Vine is defined as a vine equal to or greater than 35 years of age. Yalumba The Menzies Cabernet Sauvignon is made with Old Vine grapes sourced from vines planted in 1975.
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A Survivor Vine
Also known as a Very Old Vine, a Survivor Vine is defined as a vine equal to or greater than 70 years of age. Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon & Shiraz includes Antique grapes sourced from vines planted in 1925.
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A Centenarian Vine
Also known as an Exceptionally Old Vine, a Centenarian Vine is defined as a vine equal to or greater than 100 years of age. Yalumba The Octavius Shiraz includes Centenarian grapes sourced from vines planted in 1908 and 1854.
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An Ancestor Vine
Also known as a Very Bloody Exceptionally Old Vine, an Ancestor Vine is defined as a vine that is equal or greater than 125 years of age. Yalumba The Tri-Centenary Grenache is made with Tri-Centenary grapes sourced from vines planted in 1889.
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Dig deep into our museum cellar and explore our earliest vintages to those being released now.