Penfolds Shiraz St. Henri 2018

Critical Acclaim: 99 pts James Suckling; 97 pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate; 95 pts Decanter. 

Tasting Notes: "A great St. Henri and, although multi-regional, this is very much a wine that speaks of the Barossa Valley, with aromas of ripe blackberries and red plums that are so fresh, together with tobacco, young-leather, earth, chocolate, coal-smoke and tarry accents. Effortless depth on the palate with summer berries, framed in fine, alabaster-like tannins that are underscored with discreet power. So long and captivating. A blend of Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Port Lincoln, Robe, Padthaway, Clare Valley and Adelaide Hills. Drink over the next decade or more."- James Suckling. 

"The 2018 St Henri Shiraz is a terrific effort, perhaps rivaling the top-flight wines under this label in 1976 and 1986. Remarkably fine and silky in texture yet simultaneously dense and concentrated, it showcases the amazing fruit harvested in 2018. Boysenberry, mulberry and mocha shadings all swirl together effortlessly in a whorl of full-bodied elegance, finishing long and effortless. Mainly Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale, it includes smaller amounts of fruit from Port Lincoln, Robe, Padthaway, Clare Valley and the Adelaide Hills, all aged 12 months in large old wooden vats."- Robert Parker's Wine Advocate. 

"“Like a wise old friend, St Henri never seems rushed or unnecessarily exaggerated, with its rounded tones of lush Shiraz fruitiness celebrated but not overly amplified through a 12-month maturation in large old oak vats. Since its first vintage in 1957, this winning formula has resulted in a truly integrated palate, with the softness of the tannins ensuring a calm finish. Fruit from the Barossa and McLaren Vale brings both generosity in the rich cherry and ripe red plum flavours, along with a meaty chew, while also maintaining length and drive through a long, even palate peppered with savoury tones and minerality.”- Decanter.

Varietal: Syrah.