Henschke Hill of Roses Shiraz 2021

This wine hails from a 32-year-old, single-block vineyard at the Hill of Grace estate. It's a wine that speaks with a striking clarity, offering intense, penetrating aromas to captivate the senses. The vibrant fruit profile is dominated by black and red berries, accompanied by rich layers of black cherries, plum, and cassis, all framed by a compelling spice character.

The nose is youthful and full of energy, with intriguing hints of sage, anise, and the distinctive Australian bush character that adds complexity. The deep red hues are a visual reflection of the wine’s concentration and depth. Notably, this wine was matured in 100% seasoned French oak, which serves to showcase the pure fruit expression rather than imparting overt wood influence. The oak allows the wine’s natural vibrancy to shine, emphasising its raw, unfiltered power.

Critics thoughts - While ripe in fruit, the wine maintains a medium body, with fine, integrated tannins that lend it an elegant structure. The balance between fruit intensity and refined tannic presence results in a wine that is deceptively powerful, an exemplary Shiraz from Eden Valley that is both graceful and commanding, without the need for overstatement.

Erin Larkin, Robert Parker Wine Advocate 97pts,