Yalumba The Signature Barossa Valley 2018

96 points Erin Larkin (Wine Advocate): "The 2018 The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz (the 48th vintage) is named for Nick Waterman (managing director and CEO of Yalumba 2015 - 2022). The 2018 vintage in South Australia (and specifically here, Barossa) was an excellent one: ripe/warm, even and long and produced wines with density, energy and gravitas. This is exactly that: plush and powerful. The fruit forms a perfect dovetail: the enveloping, mouth-filling abundance of the Shiraz, neatly wedged into the folds of the structuring and shapely Cabernet. Very impressive. This is one of the more impressive Signatures in recent times. It will cellar with grace and ease. Drink: 2023-2043. (4/6/23)"

96 points Dave Brookes (Wine Companion): "Since its first release in 1962, The Signature has been Yalumba's deep dive into the classic Australian blend from the Barossa and one that honors the people who have enhanced the traditions and culture of Yalumba. There is a resonance and depth to this release that I really like. Wonderfully pure and concentrated blackberry and plum fruits, layered with spice, dark chocolate, earth, cedar and oak nuance. Succulent and sinewy in the mouth, it flexes considerable muscle, yet remains purely fruited and approachable even at this stage of its evolution. Rich and balanced with fine, ripe tannin and plenty of energy for such depth of fruit. Lovely. Special. 14.5% alcohol. Drink by 2050. (12/21/21)"

95 points Tina Gellie (Decanter): "Ideal vintage conditions set the stage for this impressive blend – worth waiting for after no Signature was released in 2017. Polished and showy from the off, it exudes concentrated, ripe red plum and boysenberry aromas, with a whiff of vanilla and cedar. There's a caramel oak sweetness on the palate, like a plush velvet-textured cloak over dense, herbal bramble fruit, supported by fine chocolatey tannins and balancing acidity. Vibrant yet forceful. Drinking Window: 20222-2035. (3/30/22)"

94 points James Suckling: "Inviting aromas of blackcurrant, sliced plum, graphite, crushed stone and bark. Full-bodied with silky tannins. Structured and elegant, with a bevy of red and black fruit washing over the palate with steady intensity. Subtle baking-spice complexity and some oak is laced into the solid core of fruit. Long. Best after 2024. (10/1/22)"

91 points Wine Spectator: "[$70 list] Impressive for its polish and elegant, seamless frame, with cedar, tobacco and spice notes adding warmth to the core of plum and cassis. Offers details of fig, fresh mint and pepper on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. Drink now through 2034. (12/15/22)"