2022 Hentley Farm The Beast Shiraz, Barossa Valley

Sporting an awesome magenta-splashed crimson hue in the glass, this smells Barossa through and through. Deep, deep blackberry and satsuma fruits, studded with ironstone and hints of fruitcake spice, grilled figs, Old Gold chocolate, turned earth and roasting meats. Weighty and full-bodied, there's plenty of latent power here, balanced despite the heady 15.2% alc with fine, sedimentary tannins, leaving no doubt that it will cellar admirably.

95 points Dave Brookes winecompanion.com.au

Incredibly deep, dark and opaquely black in the glass. Heady, sweet and lifted aromas of liqueur chocolates, plum, mulberry, choc-mint, licorice, graphite and sweet oak. Opulently hedonistic in flavour, with a cavalcade of dark fruits, sweet oak, spice and a brambly wildness. Powerful and not for the faint hearted, but it also delivers real balance and drinkability. The epitome of the iron fist in the velvet glove 25 Aug 2024 Drink 2024–2039

96 points Aaron Brasher therealreview.com

The Hentley Farm The Beast Shiraz from Barossa Valley is a bold and commanding red wine, crafted to showcase the power and intensity of premium Barossa Shiraz. Hentley Farm, a celebrated single-estate winery, is known for its meticulous attention to detail and its dedication to producing wines that express the unique terroir of the Seppeltsfield subregion.

The Beast Shiraz is sourced from select blocks on the Hentley Farm estate, where deep red clay soils and warm conditions encourage optimal ripening. These factors contribute to the wine’s robust structure and concentrated flavor profile. The grapes are hand-harvested and vinified with precision, followed by extended aging in a combination of French and American oak barrels, enhancing complexity and depth.

In the glass, the wine presents a deep crimson hue with purple highlights. The nose is rich and aromatic, offering layers of blackberry, dark plum, and blueberry, interwoven with notes of vanilla, mocha, black pepper, and a hint of smoked meat.

On the palate, The Beast Shiraz is full-bodied and powerful, delivering intense flavors of ripe black fruits, dark chocolate, and licorice, supported by fine-grained tannins. A balanced acidity and a velvety texture lead to a long, opulent finish with lingering spice and oak nuances.

This Shiraz pairs beautifully with hearty dishes such as slow-cooked beef ribs, roasted lamb, or char-grilled steaks. Its bold profile also makes it a perfect choice for special occasions or as a centerpiece wine for a dinner party. While approachable now, The Beast has exceptional aging potential, capable of evolving over 10-15 years.