| Region | |
|---|---|
| Subregion | Australia > South Australia > Eden Valley |
| Colour | Red |
| Type | Still |
The Wheelwright and the Cyril Henschke Vineyards are adjacent and rest at an elevation of 470 meters above seal level, numbering them among some of the highest vineyards in the region. The 1.6-hectare single vineyard from which the fruit hails is planted on a combination of sandy loam and clay, over a bedrock of mica schist and faces in a north through west to south aspect. The 2018 The Wheelwright Single Vineyard Shiraz is 100% Shiraz, matured in a combination of new (21%) and seasoned (79%) French oak (65%) and American oak (35%) hogsheads for 18 months prior to blending and bottling. According to the Barossa Old Vine Charter, an "old vine" is equal to or greater than 35 years of age. I love Eden Valley Syrah/Shiraz for its ability to convey fresh raspberry, black tea, crushed rocks and licorice, each in equal measure, not to mention inflections of sage, bay leaf and even rosemary. The wines are elegant (even when produced in a full-throttle style, which this is not) and age gracefully. Eden Valley looks sensational in this excellent vintage, the 2018 The Wheelwright Single Vineyard Shiraz especially so.
As an avid proponent of the screw-cap closure, it is important to note that upon opening, all wines in this release looked cramped and closed. With time in the glass (and no small amount of vigorous swirling), the wines opened up beautifully. A decant prior to drinking is highly recommended, especially if you are going to be drinking them early (i.e., anytime from 2023 - 2033).
Shiraz from the Wheelwright vineyard in Eden Valley; 18 months in 65/35% French/American oak (21% new). A relatively new addition to the Henschke quiver and one that is fast becoming a favourite of mine. Pure mulberry, blueberry and blackberry fruits with hints of fine spice, sage, bay leaf, licorice, dark chocolate and crushed stone. Firm granitic tannins melt into the wine, pure and true with a fine, lively cadence and superb fruit density and detail on display.
The Wheelwright hails from a single mini-valley behind Hill of Grace. It sits at the top of the range, north and west-facing, and the vines are 50 years old in this vintage. This is an expressive and somewhat flamboyant wine with exotic touches on the nose and an over-arching red-fruit theme. There is a pliable, fondanty texture with dark chocolate details, but no excess flesh or unwanted sweetness exists. Overall, this is a more floral, open style than a firm, black-fruited wine. Prue explained that the flavour directly results from the soil type, which is acidic sandy loam, as opposed to the red-brown earth found in the other red wines. Great fun.
