2022 Henschke Tappa Pass Shiraz, Barossa Valley Eden Valley

68/32% Eden Valley/Barossa Valley shiraz sourced from up to 70-year-old vines. Ripe satsuma plum, black cherry and blackberry fruits with hints of black olive tapenade, bay leaf, five-spice, cedar, vanilla pod, licorice, dark chocolate, earth and pan juices. I'm really liking the fruit density and velvety palate travel of the '22s; there is a real generosity to the fruit. Tight, powdered schisty tannins and a bright seam of acidity with excellent persistence on the finish.

94 points Dave Brookes winecompanion.com.au

Henschke Tappa Pass Shiraz is a bold, opulent and finely structured red that showcases the interplay between Barossa Valley power and Eden Valley elegance. Named after the historic Tappa Pass road that links the two regions, this wine is a blend of Shiraz from both valleys — low-yielding old vines in the Barossa providing richness and depth, with cooler Eden Valley sites bringing aromatic lift, spice and freshness. It’s a wine that captures the heart of Henschke’s regional mastery.

The Shiraz is hand harvested and undergoes traditional vinification in open-top fermenters with hand plunging, followed by maturation in a combination of new and seasoned French oak hogsheads for about 18 months. The result is a wine of density and finesse, crafted with the same level of precision and care as Henschke’s single-vineyard icons.

The nose is expressive and layered, showing blackberry, plum compote, dark cherry, clove, cedar, black pepper and hints of violet and charcuterie. The palate is full bodied and plush, with concentrated dark fruits, velvety tannins, and superb structure. There’s a savoury backbone and subtle minerality that gives it balance and a long, flowing finish.

Food pairing: outstanding with slow-roasted lamb, dry-aged beef, venison, mushroom ragù, or hard cheeses like Comté or aged cheddar. Also excellent with spiced eggplant or dark chocolate-based sauces.

Cellar potential: built for longevity. Drinking well now with a decant, but will continue to evolve beautifully over the next 15 to 20 years, developing notes of leather, tobacco, and forest floor.