2023 Henschke Tappa Pass Shiraz, Barossa Valley Eden Valley

This vintage celebrates 21 years of Tappa Pass Shiraz. The wine has a long history of graceful ageing so you can only imagine that that will continue with the ’23 vintage. The maker suggests another good 20+ years and why not, for amid the black fruits, the violet florals, the spice and earthiness, there is a solid backbone firmly in place. A pure elegance resides here dressed in brilliant crimson-purple hues accompanied by a rousing bouquet of blackberries, violet, Aussie bush scents, black cherries, plum, spice. The palate, nicely crafted, shows a hint of earthy savouriness before launching into a rich trove of spices in cassia bark, clove and dark spiced woody notes to match the dark chocolate, Cherry Ripe and oak (French oak, 10% new). Comes together with an overall Wow! on the finish. Drink 2026 to 2043.

96 points Jeni Port for Wine Pilot, April 2026.

The Henschke family has been making wine in the Eden Valley through seven generations, since 1868. The Tappa Pass draws on a network of historical grower vineyards across both Eden and Barossa Valley, continuing a tradition of working with other families of German Silesian descent.

The fruit for this wine comes from Tappa Pass and Light Pass, vineyards of up to 70 years old on ancient low-fertility soils ranging from terra rossa to red-brown earths.  Eden Valley contributes aromatic lift and finesse here, while the Barossa Valley component adds density, depth and the generous dark fruit weight to the blend.

Deep crimson with violet hues, the nose is fragrant and layered with aromas of ripe plum, black cherry, blueberry and rose petal frames with notes of anise, black pepper, cedar and a fine charcuterie thread. The palate is rich and plush with blue fruits, mulberry and violets balanced by fine velvety tannins. Excellent depth and a long, expressive finish.

Worth decanting for an hour if enjoying young. Would suit a wide variety of roast meats, especially if given a chance to mature a few years in the bottle.

Drink now through 2038.