Lucy Hill-Smith, a sixth-generation member of the renowned Australian winery Yalumba, will be hosting an intimate lunch at this year’s Decanter Fine Wine Encounter London. The event is set to take place from November 6 to 7, during which attendees will have the opportunity to taste Yalumba’s acclaimed wines.
Growing up in the lush surroundings of her family’s vineyard in Barossa, Hill-Smith fondly recalls her childhood. Her sisters and she often played among the vines, and their grandmother’s home was nearby, allowing them to share unique experiences, such as feeding kangaroos grapes from the vineyard. The vibrant atmosphere of harvest season left a lasting impression, as the excitement of the bustling winery filled their home.
Hill-Smith reflects on her evolving taste in wine, particularly her newfound appreciation for Australian Grenache. This shift coincided with Yalumba’s move towards producing a refined version of their Tri-Centenary Grenache, showcasing the fruit’s authentic flavor profile. The ancient, ungrafted vines of Grenache in South Australia, some over 135 years old, further highlight the region’s unique offerings.
Representing the sixth generation of her family’s business is a source of pride for Hill-Smith. She feels a deep motivation to uphold the legacy while appreciating that her parents encouraged each of their children to explore careers outside the wine industry before joining Yalumba.
In her view, certain aspects of Barossa wines remain underrated. Firstly, the diversity of grape varieties and sub-regions within Barossa is often overlooked, with many associating the area predominantly with Shiraz. However, there are exceptional Grenache, Riesling, and Viognier wines that deserve attention. Secondly, the region boasts some of the oldest vines in the world, undisturbed by phylloxera, which contribute to the rich heritage of its wines. Lastly, Hill-Smith emphasizes that many top Barossa wines are capable of aging well beyond their youth, promoting a greater understanding of their aging potential through offerings from Yalumba’s Museum Collection.
When it comes to food pairings, Hill-Smith shares insights into her favorite dishes. In Australia, she enjoys a light meal featuring South Australian prawns, paired with a refreshing Riesling, followed by a spicy Thai beef salad with chilled Grenache. In the UK, she often opts for a celebratory bottle of Champagne with anchovies on toast, followed by a barbecue rib of beef, complemented perfectly by a classic Barossa Shiraz and perhaps a Côte-Rôtie for comparison.
Hill-Smith offers travel recommendations for those visiting South Australia. Starting in Adelaide, she suggests exploring the Central Market for fresh produce and nearby eateries like Lucia’s Deli and Arkhe. In Barossa, she recommends visiting the Farmers Market and enjoying dining experiences at Vintners Bar and Grill, famed for its culinary delights.
As a wine enthusiast, Hill-Smith maintains a personal cellar with a blend of Yalumba’s exceptional releases and a selection from Burgundy and Piedmont. Beyond wine, she enjoys cooking and trail walking, cherishing these experiences as a way to connect with both friends and family.