Every vintage from the ancient, single-vineyard Hill of Grace is a limited release, however some are more limited than others. There was no Hill of Grace made in 1960, 1974 and 2000. Just one barrel was produced in 2003, no vintage in 2011, and extremely tiny vintages for 2013 and 2014, 2019 and 2020. There’s hardly ever a single-vineyard wine that had its first vintage from centenarian vines that has continued to be made for another 58 years.
Tasting Notes
Colour: Very deep crimson.
Aroma: Rich and beguiling aromas of blackberry, blueberry and dark plum followed by signature exotic five spice, star anise and sage with underlying nuances of beef stock and dark cedar.
Palate: Intense and layered, the complex palate bursts with a dense, pure core of sweet spiced plum and blackberry, coated with firm yet integrated, fine velvety tannins which draw away to an extraordinarily long finish and lingering flavours of dried sweet spices.
Grape Varieties: 100% Shiraz
Aging: Matured in 86% French and 14% American (33% new, 67% seasoned) hogsheads for 18 months prior to blending and bottling.
Awards: 94pts – Wine Spectator; 97pts – Wine Advocate-Parker
History of Henschke
The Henschke family is one of the longest-established wine names in the Barossa. Established by Johann Christian Henschke in 1861, each generation built upon the reputation for quality. But it was fourth-generation Cyril Alfred Henschke who in 1958 created one of the world’s most highly sought after red wine – Hill of Grace. Today, fifth generation Stephen Henschke and his wife Prue uphold the family name and reputation, as winemaker and viticulturist respectively. Henschke is also one of the first producers from Barossa to adopt biodynamic practices in their estates.
Website: www.henschke.com.au