Yangarra Estate began planting as early as 1946 when the property was called Lalla Rookh, or ‘love nest’. These plantings included a plot of unirrigated bush vine Grenache named the High Sands vineyard. For years the fruit was sought after by local winemakers using it to improve wines from smaller holdings across Mclaren Vale.
Then in 2001 everything evolved. The American Jackson family, famous for their eclectic international winery holdings purchased Yangarra Estate Vineyard with the intention of producing world-class Grenache and Shiraz from these priceless old vines.
Jess Jackson appointed local boy Peter Fraser as winemaker. Which further cemented his vision to establish one of Australia’s greatest producers of Rhone Valley varieties.
Yangarra under Pete’s skilful guidance has continued to garnish impressive critical acclaim for its wines from the likes of James Halliday. The single vineyard estate is now farmed using biodynamic principles under the supervision of viticulturist Michael Lane.
99 Points James Halliday
This is the king of Australian grenache, and is not to be undertaken lightly. Deep, although clear, in colour, it has a rainbow of flavours, its deep roots probing the soil nearby for sustenance that will provide tannins and all things needed for the grapes to provide the magic evolution of the red flowers and spices of this wine.
97 Points James Suckling
A majestic grenache that has a super impressive level of poise and concentration. Raspberries, blueberries, red and dark cherries, as well as fresh-tilled earth and dry spices abound. The palate has a very succulent and fresh-cut core of blue-tinged fruit and long, majestic, unwavering tannins. Superb. Certified organic.
