The 2021 Henschke Hill of Grace Shiraz is a masterful expression of Eden Valley's terroir, reflecting the profound legacy of Australia's most revered single-vineyard wine. Sourced from ancient, ungrafted Shiraz vines—some planted as early as 1860—this vintage embodies the harmony of heritage, meticulous viticulture, and exceptional winemaking.
In the glass, it unveils a deep, vibrant crimson hue. The bouquet is intensely aromatic, offering layers of dark plums, blackberry, liquorice, vanilla, sweet tobacco, woodsmoke, and violet florals. On the palate, it is rich and unctuous, yet remarkably balanced, with a creamy texture and silky tannins that lead to an enduring finish. The wine's complexity and elegance are a testament to the biodynamic farming practices and the unique microclimate of the Hill of Grace vineyard.
Ken Gargett awarded this vintage a perfect score of 100 points, praising its "incredible length, creamy and seductive texture, silk tannins – this is an amazing wine which more than lives up to the hype."
Andrew Caillard MW also bestowed a 100-point rating, highlighting its "knife-edge balance" and "subtle waves of flavour that roll over the palate, effortless balance and a finish that stretches towards infinity."
James Suckling described it as "incredibly fresh and refined, with deeply brooding notes of dark plums, mocha, graphite, five spice and cured meat," awarding it 99 points.
This 2021 release is a monumental achievement for Henschke, offering a wine of remarkable depth, elegance, and longevity. It is poised to evolve gracefully over the next 40 to 50 years, rewarding those who choose to cellar it.
