Smithbrook Yilgarn Rouge 2011

Reviews:

DECANTER ASIA WINE AWARDS 2014
Silver medal

HALLIDAY WINE COMPANION 2014
An elegant, but remarkably intense, blend of merlot and cabernet sauvignon reflecting (in part) finishing its fermentation in new and used French oak; the tannins thus obtained have a special mouthfeel to the lively display of cassis fruit.

Tasting Notes

The 2011 Yilgarn presents a medium to full red-purple hue, hinting at its depth and intensity. The rich and complex bouquet opens with aromas of blue and black berry fruits, charred cedar, ripe fig, and fine, subtle spices.

On the palate, it reveals full-bodied richness with cool-climate elegance at its finest. Generous ripe fruit is beautifully balanced with seasoned sweet oak, bringing together flavours of cassis, vanilla, dark plum, and toasted nuances. The natural acidity enhances the wine’s structure, while fine, silky tannins complement the long, seamless finish.

Perfect Pairings:

This wine pairs beautifully with rich roasted meats, lamb, or charred steaks. It also complements hearty casseroles and aged cheeses, such as a sharp cheddar or gouda.

Best Serving Temp:
To fully appreciate the complexity and balance of this wine, serve at 18°C. This will allow the wine’s aromas and flavours to fully open and integrate.

Cellaring Potential:
The 2011 Yilgarn is a wine that will continue to evolve beautifully over time, and it is expected to drink well for another decade or more.

Vineyard & Winemaking Notes:

2011 marked a standout vintage in Pemberton, with a cool, wet spring followed by a dry and warm ripening period. The minimal rainfall and dry autumn ensured that the red grapes reached full maturity without disease pressure, resulting in a wine of exceptional quality. Yilgarn is crafted from small parcels of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc sourced from Smithbrook’s estate vineyard, which embodies the winery’s commitment to producing premium wines. These varieties were carefully selected and matured in new oak barrels to create a wine with refined elegance and restrained power.

Region: Pemberton, Western Australia
Variety: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
Alcohol: 14.5%
Cellaring Potential: In it’s drinking prime now

Technical Terms Explained:

• Lees Ageing: The process where wine is aged on its dead yeast cells (lees), which imparts texture, richness, and complexity. This technique enhances mouthfeel and contributes to the wine’s subtle depth of flavour.
• Tannins: Natural compounds found in grape skins, seeds, and stems that contribute to the structure and texture of the wine. They create a drying sensation in the mouth and provide the ability for wines to age well, evolving over time.
• Cassis: A flavour profile commonly associated with blackcurrants, offering intense dark berry characteristics with both sweetness and tartness. Often found in Bordeaux-style wines like this blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc.
• Oak Maturation: A winemaking technique where wine is aged in oak barrels, allowing it to absorb flavours and aromas such as vanilla, spice, and toast. The oak also influences the texture and structure of the wine.
• Cool-Climate Elegance: Refers to wines produced in regions with cooler growing conditions, where longer ripening times allow for greater balance of acidity, tannins, and fruit. Wines from these climates tend to have refined elegance, crisp acidity, and fresh, pure fruit flavours.

Learn About Smithbrook Winery

Smithbrook Wines is a boutique winery situated on one of the states most picturesque sites in the Pemberton Wine Region, surrounded by spectacular towering Karri forest. Smithbrook Winery is well known as one of the regions best with a small range of premium quality red and white wines. In recent years, Pemberton has gained increased prominence and recognition due to its evolution as an exceptional cool climate vineyard area.

Read the latest Smithbrook Wine Reviews HERE

Smithbrook was born from the combined passions of two of Australia’s most highly regarded winemakers, Dr Bill Pannell and Brian Croser. In 2010 Smithbrook was acquired by Peter and Lee Fogarty, joining the family-run Fogarty Wine Group. Smithbrook has continued to be a pioneer in Pemberton, with each of its wines capturing the essence of what this beautiful area has to offer.