Henschke: Latest releases & older vintages

See Henschke's latest releases, plus some older surprises

This year, Henschke celebrate the 150th anniversary of the family’s first commercial release in 1868 – the perfect excuse to show rare museum classics as well as latest releases.

Sixth generation winemaker Johann Henschke, who returned to the fold in 2013, presented the wines at a recent tasting in London.

Scroll down to see Sarah’s tasting notes & scores

While Stephen Henschke stepped up to the chief winemaking role unexpectedly following the untimely death of his father, Cyril, Johann is working alongside parents Stephen and Prue towards a smooth transition, telling me that ‘I’m able to learn and make decisions with a safety net’.He added, ‘Dad has seen over 40 vintages now – the full set of what’s likely to happen.’Looking ahead, Johann will continue his parents’ exploration of so-called alternative varieties since, ‘if we sit on Shiraz in the Barossa, we may be missing something.

Describing it as ‘pretty incredible,’ he is excited by Nebbiolo’s ability to fully ripen at low alcohol into May, ‘during the dying gasps of Autumn.’ Watch this space…

Henschke basics to know:

Written by Antony Rose and originally published online in September 2016

Of Australia’s 21 most highly prized wines in the Langtons Classification of Australian wine, only the names of Henschke and Penfolds contribute more than one wine in the highest ‘Exceptional’ category.

In Henschke’s case, these are Hill of Grace and Mount Edelstone Shiraz.

Both historic reds, of course, come from the Eden Valley vineyards, separating Henschke from the South Australian Shiraz mainstream in its unique combination of century-old vines, higher altitude and a climate that’s cooler than the broader and hotter Barossa Valley.

Yet while Henschke is synonymous with Eden Valley, the family has not kept all its eggs in one basket. For Henschke, the relatively cool Adelaide Hills to the southwest is a source of fine Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Pinot Noir.

It also produces dry whites made from Riesling, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc and other varieties that go into the Tilly’s Vineyard blend. The Barossa Valley, to the northwest of Eden Valley, also plays a significant role in a number of its richer Shiraz and GSM blends.

The fifth generation winemaker-viticulturist couple of Stephen and Prue Henschke have been tireless in their promotion of the brand and their sustainable vineyard practices.

Henschke latest releases and some older surprises:

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