1996 Henschke Mount Edelstone Shiraz

The Mount Edelstone vineyard, meaning gemstone, was planted in the 1920's on the eastern slopes of the hill of the same name, located in Keyneton, high in the ranges east of the Barossa Valley. The Mount Edelstone wines are a model of consistency having received awards at National Wine Shows every year since 1956. After two drought years, the 1996 vintage saw a near perfect growing season which resulted in above average yields. The cooler conditions experienced during this vintage also allowed for a long, slow ripening period which resulted in very good flavour development in the grapes.Made from 100% old vine Shiraz grown in the Eden Valley wine region, the wine was matured in a combination of new and seasoned American and French oak for 18 months. Deep crimson mauve colour. Aromas of plum and stewed fruit with an earthy background and just a hint of leather. The palate is filled with ripe fruit flavours to which complexity is added by earthy / leather overtones. Excellent weight and texture, fine silky tannins and long earthy leather finish. Cellar 5-8 years.