Penfolds, St Henri Shiraz - Australie 2021
Penfolds, 180 years of innovative winemaking.
Since 1844, Penfolds has been grounded in experimentation, curiosity and uncompromising quality. It is a pioneering spirit which still rings true after nearly two centuries, that has helped Penfolds become one of the most celebrated winemakers in the world today. Over its 180-year history, only four winemakers have helmed Penfolds, each serving as a steward of a distinctive philosophy and style—what we might refer to as the 'House style'.There is a strand of shared DNA throughout Penfolds family of wines, yet each clearly expresses its unique persona.
St Henri, another expression of Shiraz
In the history of Penfolds wines, the name St Henri, with origins dating back to 1890, precedes that of Grange. Officially launched in the early 1950s, the wine gained significant momentum in the 1990s. Originating from five distinct wine regions (McLaren Vale, Barossa Valley, Padthaway, Wrattonbully, The Peninsulas), it offers a truly unique interpretation of Shiraz. What sets St Henri apart is its meticulous aging process in large, old wooden vats. This method minimizes the influence of oak on the wine, allowing the fruity character to shine in all its purity. For many years, it shared the same price as Grange; today, it represents excellent value for its proud heritage, the quality of its fruits, and its substantial aging potential.
The 2021 vintage:
This wine presents a dark, dense appearance with a black core and purple rim. The nose reveals an intricate blend of raspberry liquorice and white chocolate, intertwined with freshly ground nutmeg and toasted fennel, complemented by spiced apple pie aromas. Savory notes of artisanal pastrami and fresh bagels add depth and harmony. On the palate, wild cherry and pomegranate are joined by hints of golden custard tart and toasted sourdough, offering layers of complexity. A distinct ironstone minerality leads to a refined, savory finish, with tightly woven, velvety tannins that will soften gracefully with age, making it a wine worth cellaring.