Penfolds Shiraz St. Henri South Australia 2017

“Dark ruby with purple reflections, brightening at the rim. The nose is still a little reserved, with forest-fruit confit, delicate caramel nougat, and fine liquorice notes in the background. It needs air. Juicy and elegant, it shows complexity and good drive, with pleasant fruit expression, and ripe, perfectly integrated tannins. It lasts well, with fine supporting tannins on the finish. A good food wine, it is sure to develop well and has the potential to age for many years.”

“The latest bottling of St. Henri, from a cool vintage, is a classic. Inky-hued, it's a deep well of flavor: plush blackberries, roasted vegtables, coffee beans, dark chocolate and a sanguine nuance. The palate is rich and mouthfilling but linear, with polished, spicy oak and fine, powerful tannins. It's a big wine that needs a major hit of protein if drinking now, but it will age beautifully for many decades to come. Drink through 2045.”

“There’s a lot to love about this wine: its calm modesty, assured sense of purpose, and long, steady procession of flavours. The elastic palate stretches and shifts through rich savoury notes over a measured meld of sweet berries. If you regard Shiraz as being too much a playful puppy, then this represents a more docile, loyal companion. It’s a comforting wine; reliable and secure. A slowly bowed cello rather than a shrill violin. An evocative slow dance to a timeless ballad. Watch its allure grow with time in the cellar.”

“This has a very impressive, intense nose with a cool and spicy edge, as well as aromas of red flowers and fresh raspberries, set amid some wild-herb tones. The palate has very expressive raspberry and cranberry flavors, delivered among fine, crunchy and lithe, juicy tannins. The palate has a deep, red-plum core that’s quite tautly contained and wrapped up neatly for some time to come. Try this from 2025. Screw cap.”