Wines Unspecified The Yard - Riversdale - 2016

Viniou Reviews

The Yard Riversdale 2016 is a red wine originating from Western Australia, a region renowned for its diverse terroirs and progressive winemaking techniques. While the precise grape varietals in this blend are not specified, Western Australia is famed for its structured Cabernet Sauvignons and Merlots, and The Yard is known for crafting expressive wines that highlight the unique features of individual vineyard sites. The 2016 vintage benefitted from ideal ripening conditions, leading to well-balanced fruit and polished tannins. Expect a wine with generous dark fruit aromas—think blackberry and plum—alongside subtle herbal and earthy undertones, reflecting both the skill of the winemaker and the character of the terrain.

Western Australia, particularly the area around Margaret River, enjoys a maritime climate with ample sunshine, cooling ocean breezes, and a significant diurnal range. This allows grapes to ripen slowly, preserving freshness and vivacity in the finished wine. The soils are often gravelly with excellent drainage, lending elegance and a distinct mineral streak to the wines. Although the modern viticultural history here is relatively young, dating back to the 1960s, the region has quickly established itself as a benchmark for quality Australian wine production, marrying New World vitality with an Old World respect for terroir.

Given its likely structure and depth, this bottle will pair beautifully with roasted or grilled meats—lamb racks with rosemary, chargrilled beef sirloin, or more rustic Australian staples like beef and red wine pie. You could also enjoy it alongside mature hard cheeses or hearty vegetarian dishes, such as lentil and mushroom casserole, which will echo the wine’s earthy dimensions.

For optimal enjoyment, serve The Yard Riversdale 2016 at 16-18°C. Decanting the wine for about an hour before serving will allow it to fully express its bouquet and round out its tannins, enhancing both its complexity and overall drinking pleasure.