The 1997 vintage saw the opening of the majestic new winery established as part of a joint venture between the French Champagne house Devaux and Yering Station, and which adds another major dimension to the Yarra Valley. Until 1997 the Yarrabank Cuv}e Brut was made under Claude Thibaut's direction at Domaine Chandon, but henceforth the entire operation will be conducted at Yarrabank. Four hectares of dedicated 'estate' vineyards have been established at Yering Station; the balance of the intake comes from other growers in the Yarra Valley and southern Victoria. Wine quality has been quite outstanding, the wines having a delicacy unmatched by any other Australian sparkling wines. James Halliday
