Yalumba’s Fresh Take on Shiraz
After a summer spent exploring local beer, cider and spirits, I wanted to ease back into wine with something fresh, modern and a little unexpected. The warm fall weather still calls for a glass on the patio so I reached for a red that can handle a bit of a chill - the Yalumba Y Series Lighter Shiraz 2023 from South Australia.
Yalumba has long been one of my favourite Australian producers. It’s the country’s oldest family-owned winery, founded in 1849 and still run by the Hill-Smith family six generations later. Their respect for heritage runs deep. They even have an Old Vine Charter to protect vineyards planted in the 1800s but they’re also remarkably forward-thinking. Sustainability is part of their DNA: solar power, water conservation and native replanting have been in place for years. They’re also one of the few wineries in the world to own their own cooperage, crafting oak barrels on site.
Yalumba Y Series Lighter Shiraz 8% alcohol
That spirit of innovation shows in this wine. The Lighter Shiraz began as Yalumba’s classic Y Series Shiraz but the winemaking team gently reduced the alcohol from 13.5% to 8% using reverse osmosis - a careful process that maintains flavour while lowering alcohol and calories. It took plenty of trial and error to get it right, but the result is impressive.
At just 8% alcohol and around 80 calories a glass, it fits neatly into the global trend toward lighter, more mindful drinking. There are lots of low or no-alcohol wines out there, but reds are notoriously tricky as they often lose their character when the alcohol is stripped away. This one though, surprised me. It tastes like a real Shiraz, just more playful and refreshing.
And yes, you can chill it! Canadians tend to drink reds too warm and whites too cold, but lighter-bodied reds like this one shine with a quick 20-minute chill in the fridge. Cooling brings out the bright fruit and floral notes and it feels tailor-made for this golden shoulder season between summer and fall.
Yalumba Y Series Lighter Shiraz and Lighter Chardonnay
The Y Series line is Yalumba’s approachable entry point, made from South Australian fruit and priced accessibly. I paid under $20 for this bottle. It’s great for red-wine lovers looking for something fresh and easy, or for white wine drinkers curious about dipping into red without the heavy tannins. And if you prefer white, Yalumba has also released a Y Series Lighter Chardonnay that’s just arriving in Alberta. You can check availability at www.liquorconnect.com
TASTING NOTE - YALUMBA Y SERIES LIGHTER SHIRAZ 2023
In the glass, the Lighter Shiraz shows a bright ruby hue. The nose is full of red cherry, strawberry and plum, with a touch of pepper and herbs. It’s medium-bodied with soft tannins and a smooth finish. I find it lively, juicy and remarkably balanced. It’s delicious on its own but also great with grilled chicken, portobello mushrooms or a good old hamburger. I like it on its own merit, not just because it happens to be lower in alcohol.
Listen to the full audio segment here: House Wine on The Homestretch - CBC Radio One