Penfolds : Saint Henri Shiraz 2023

Characteristics and Tasting Notes for Penfolds Saint Henri Shiraz 2023

Tasting

Colour
Very dark and deep at the core, with vivid purple glints at the rim.

Nose
The nose reveals aromas of black and blue fruits, interwoven with spices and a hint of lightly roasted coffee. Mineral and saline notes mingle with touches of smoke, herbs, nettle, tea and goji berry.

Palate
The texture is juicy and generous, supported by a firm structure. Deep black fruits are joined by savoury, meaty notes and brined olive. The tannins are fine, tight-knit and precise, leading to a long, chiselled and persistent finish.

Food and wine pairing
This wine is an ideal partner for red meats, game, slow-roasted lamb or braised beef. It also pairs perfectly with charcuterie, hearty stews, mushroom dishes and aged cheeses.

Serving and cellaring
Saint Henri Shiraz 2023 offers exceptional ageing potential and can be cellared until around 2050, although it can already be enjoyed now. For the best tasting experience, decanting is recommended to release its full aromatic complexity. Serve at a temperature between 16 and 18°C.

A silky, expressive Shiraz from South Australia

The estate
Founded in 1844 by Dr Christopher Rawson Penfold and his wife Mary in Magill, this celebrated Australian brand has become a true global icon. Located in South Australia, the estate has successfully combined its historic heritage with a modern, multi-regional philosophy. Now owned by Treasury Wine Estates, it continues to shine under the technical direction of Peter Gago. Penfolds stands out for its ability to produce wines of outstanding quality that reflect the diversity of Australia's terroirs while maintaining a strong and distinctive stylistic identity.

The vineyard
The grapes are sourced from several of the most iconic wine regions across Australia. The vineyard spans a variety of terroirs, including McLaren Vale, the Barossa Valley, Frankland River, Port Lincoln and Padthaway. This geographical diversity makes it possible to select the finest plots to achieve the desired balance and complexity.

The vintage
The 2023 vintage was shaped by the La Niña weather pattern, which brought cool, wet conditions to South Australia. Winter and early spring rainfall exceeded the usual averages, disrupting flowering and causing uneven fruit set as well as lower yields. A mild summer followed, encouraging a slow and steady ripening of the berries, which led to a later-than-average harvest.

Winemaking and ageing
Saint Henri Shiraz 2023 stands apart through a traditional approach that deliberately avoids the influence of new oak. The wine is aged for 12 months exclusively in large, seasoned oak vats. This method allows the wine to develop slowly while preserving the purity of the fruit and its unique style among Australia's great red wines.

Grape variety
100% Shiraz.