2010 henschke, hill of grace vineyard, eden valley
Why We're Buying
Henschke Hill of Grace Shiraz is the highest-priced red wine from the Eden Valley. It doesn't just live up to the hype, though; it exceeds it. No vintage has ever scored lower than a 93-point rating from a major publication, with the 2015 vintage earning a perfect score from critic James Suckling, who called it "a collector's dream."
Critics Scores
Wine Enthusiast
Is this the Yin to Grange's Yang? The wines are completely different, yet almost always destined to be discussed together. The 2010 HoG is aromatic and bright, with raspberry and cranberry fruit notes, hints of mint and a pinch of peppery spice. It's full-bodied, but with elegant, supple tannins that ease gently into a long, crisp finish. Drink now–2030.
Decanter
Planted in 1860, these remarkable 150-year old Shiraz vines unquestionably produce one of the greatest wines of Australia. Its spice, tar and tabasco fragrance is intense and complex, repeated in a super-intense, opulent (but not sweet) palate. Pure black fruit flavours laced with spice are underpinned by an elegant balance of succulence and finesse of texture. Behind it there is a firm, muscular structure tapering to a long and satisfying finish.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Medium garnet in color, the 2010 Shiraz Hill of Grace reveals a slightly reticent yet beguiling nose of kirsch, dried mulberries and plum preserves with nuances of star anise, potpourri, cloves, dusty earth and menthol. Medium to full-bodied with youthfully taut, mouth-filling perfumed berry preserves and exotic spice flavors, the fruit is well framed by rounded, polished tannins and seamless freshness, finishing with incredible length. It could still benefit from 2-4 years in bottle before entering its drinking window but is already stunning.
Vinous
Glass-staining ruby. Potent black and blue fruit aromas are brightened by suggestions of vanilla, smoky minerals, incense and candied flowers. Rich but focused and energetic, offering palate-staining cherry liqueur and boysenberry flavors and suave spicecake, licorice and violet pastille qualities. Supple and broad on an endless, gently tannic, incisive finish that leaves behind allspice, mocha and dark fruit preserve notes. This remarkable wine will age effortlessly. (JR)
Wine Spectator
Elegant, expressive and wonderfully complex. Bergamot, sandalwood and black walnut liqueur notes add an aromatic complexity to the sleek, polished blackberry flavors. Shows a mix of power and finesse, with an epic finish. Drink now through 2032.