Yarra Yering Dry Red #1 2022 (1pk)

This is a masterful expression of Yarra Valley's cool-climate terroir, where the region's signature elegance meets serious structure. The 80% cabernet sauvignon backbone provides the wine's architectural framework, while merlot, malbec and petit verdot add layers of complexity and textural richness. The cool Yarra Valley climate allows for extended ripening, developing intense fruit concentration while maintaining the vibrant acidity that makes this wine both powerful and graceful.

With its fine tannin structure and vibrant acidity, this wine is built for the long haul - easily 15-20 years or more. The Trophy win at the 2023 Yarra Valley Wine Show and 97 Halliday points reflect its exceptional aging potential. While already stunning now, the wine will develop greater complexity over the next decade, with the tannins softening and secondary flavours of leather, tobacco and earth emerging to complement the primary fruit.

Absolutely - decanting will unlock this wine's full potential, especially if drinking young. The fine but persistent tannins need oxygen to soften and integrate, while decanting allows the complex aromatics of bay leaf, clove and dark fruits to fully express themselves. Give it at least 2-3 hours in a decanter, or open the bottle several hours before serving to allow proper aeration.

This wine's rich structure and savoury complexity make it perfect for hearty dishes that can match its intensity. Think slow-cooked lamb with rosemary, aged beef steaks, or game meats where the wine's earthy undertones and spice notes will complement the protein's richness. The hint of iodine and bay leaf also makes it surprisingly good with mushroom-based dishes or aged hard cheeses.

Yarra Yering pioneered cool-climate winemaking in the Yarra Valley, establishing the region's reputation for elegant, age-worthy wines that rival the world's best. Their Dry Red #1 represents decades of refinement in blending techniques and vineyard management. The consistent critical acclaim - including multiple 96-97 point scores from respected critics - demonstrates their mastery of expressing Yarra Valley's unique terroir through traditional winemaking methods.