2020 Yarra Yering Dry Red No 1 750ml

Yarra Yering, one of the Yarra Valley's oldest and most beautiful vineyards, was established in 1969 by Dr Bailey Carrodus. The winery released its first vintage in 1973 (including the first of the iconic Dry Red Wine No. 1 and Dry Red Wine No. 2). The release was the first commercial vintage the region had seen in 50 years, putting Yarra Yering at the forefront of the modern day Yarra Valley wine region. Almost another 50 years on, the vines at the foot of the Warramate Hills are producing some of the finest wines in Australia.

Sarah Crowe joined Yarra Yering in 2013 after more than a decade in the Hunter Valley. She was lured to Victoria by the winery's impeccable reputation and the desire to produce cool-climate wines. In 2017 Sarah was named Halliday's Winemaker of the Year for the wines of 2014 – her very first vintage with Yarra Yering. Working harmoniously alongside her is Yarra Valley's homegrown vineyard manager Andrew George, who celebrates 10 years with the winery in 2022.

60/20/15/5% cabernet sauvignon/merlot/malbec/petit verdot. The cabernet fruit was destemmed and crushed, the other varieties kept as whole berries. Matured 15 months in French barrel (40% new). A deep, bright crimson-purple hue. Essence of great cabernet with its core of blackcurrant and boysenberry fruit, as well as a complex assortment of cardamon, coriander seed, black tea and gentle, fresh tobacco leaf. Just as good on the detailed, layered and persistent palate. There is a coolness and restraint to the cassis fruit that builds, culminating in a long, chalky tannin finish. A complete and beautiful wine. Philip Rich, Halliday Wine Companion, 97 points

Drink to 2035.