2004 Henschke Mount Edelstone Shiraz
In 1912 Ronald Angas planted sandy loam slopes with Located high the Eden Valley region came be known as meaning gemstone. The 90-year-old ungrafted dry-grown vines from this historic single vineyard are low yielding, producing depth colour, concentration flavour, length and maturity of tannins unique to old-vine shiraz. Mount Edelstone has achieved a formidable reputation since its first vintage in 1952.
Vintage Conditions: The average winter rainfall this season was a welcome relief after 2003’s fourth-worst drought in history. A relatively frost-free, wet warm and thundery spring followed, creating a natural ‘greenhouse’ effect. The vines grew vigorously, flowered and in general set a large crop. December was the hottest for 10 years, however at the start of 2004 the weather became mild and windy and the vines thrived under virtually no heat stress. At the start of February searing heat caused sunburn and significant crop losses. New records were broken with South Australia experiencing its hottest day ever. Fortunately March returned the region to glorious sunny days and cold dewy nights, with a couple of minor rain events, allowing the fruit to ripen under near perfect conditions. The vintage was almost as late as 2002 with good yields and excellent fruit quality.
Tasting Notes: Deep crimson in colour. Sweet ripe plum, anise and blueberry aromas with earthy/dusty hints, gentle ferny characters, spicy cedary oak and eucalypt. Sweet, juicy and ripe on the palate with a fleshy texture, good structure and depth, firm ripe tannins and a long rich finish.
Drink now to 2013.
14.5% alc