2017 Hennings Heathcote Shiraz

The Hennings vineyard is part of a family owned farm that was established by Henning Rathjen in 1858. He was the first to plant vines in the Heathcote region producing wines up until the 1920’s when the vineyard was eventually abandoned. It wasn’t until 1998 when Daryl Rathjen decided to replant the 30 acre vineyard on the same original site that production started again. Winemakers David and Liam Anderson from Wild Duck Creek are in charge of winemaking so its no surprise that the resultant wines are hefty, super rich examples of Heathcote Shiraz. Maturation took place in French oak, 30% of which was new for a period of 18 months.

Rich, powerful and wildly seductive

From a slightly milder vintage the 2017 maintains the wines opulent richness whilst being more structured and possesses an impressive blackpepper quality. Impenetrable inky black core with a deep black dark red hue. Wafting from the glass are expressive scents of liquorice, black cherry and dark plum which are complimented by subtly toasted vanillin oak, hints of dark chocolate and spicy pepper notes. Rich and sleek, the palate is blessed with Heathcote’s trademark fruit weight and power being doused with liquorice, black cherry and blackberry flavours that are both lavish and flamboyant in feel yet bright. Underneath is well integrated toasty vanillin oak, fennel and spicy pepper elements. Bridling the enormously concentrated fruit are velvety yet muscular tannins that firm up the finish a touch. Long seductive blackpepper laced conclusion.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%