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Cellar/Tasting Notes
Teh Henschke Hill of Grace is the one competitor that rivals Penfolds Grange for the title Australia's most iconic wine. Henschke delivers almost ubeatable quality. Hill of Grace is Australia's preeminent expression of shiraz.
The Eden Valley Shiraz is sourced from a single, small vineyard that was planted in the 1860s with pre-phylloxera material brought from Europe by the early settlers.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (RP): 97+ "97+ pts ... Hill of Grace is 100% Shiraz from pre-phylloxera material brought from Europe by the early German settlers in the mid 1800s and grown in the Eden Valley. Some of the original vines are over 145 years old. Matured in new French (65%) and American (35%) hogsheads for 21 months, the deep garnet purple colored 2006 Hill of Grace presents an incredibly perfumed, ethereal nose of warm crushed blackberries, rose petals, kirsch, violets, cinnamon stick, mace, fennel seed, eucalypt and damp earth. Very crisp and rich in the mouth with medium-firm velvety tannis and tons of fleshy fruit, it displays opulent layers of warm berries and spice in the finish. This is staggeringly beautiful wine and delectably approachable even at this very early stage. I anticipate this great vintage will cellar to 2025+." Wine Spectator (WS): 98 "A gorgeous wine, smooth, polished, silky and seductive, teeming with licorice- and exotic spice-tinged blackberry, cherry and roasted meat flavors. Exquisitely balanced, sporting a finish that keeps undulating for minutes on end. Magnificent stuff. Shiraz. Drink now through 2020. 7 cases imported" James Halliday (JH): 97 "Bright red-purple, highly fragrant, spice, cedar, red and black berry aromas, oak evident but not excessive; it has a silky, velvety texture and mouthfeel to a beautifully balanced medium-bodied palate brimming with black fruits; wonderful length and finish." Australian Wine Companion |