2022 Henschke Cyril Henschke Cabernet Sauvignon

Named in honour of fourth-generation winemaker Cyril Henschke (1924–1979), this Eden Valley Cabernet Sauvignon pays tribute to one of Australia's most visionary pioneers of varietal and single-vineyard wines. First bottled in 1978, it comes from vines Cyril planted in the late 1960s; Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot on a north-facing slope, now farmed with organic and biodynamic practices. Renowned for its texture, depth, and fine-grained tannins, this wine represents the enduring legacy of the Henschke family and their dedication to quality and place.

Other Reviews...
There is a very strong case that this might be the best Cyril yet released. It was first produced as a single vineyard wine back in 1978 from vines planted in 1969. From the 1990s, it’s been coming from Stephen and Prue’s vineyard planted in 1988. In many ways, this marks a slightly different direction for the Cyril, although the essential D stylistic varietal expression remains strong. It’s a firm and slightly tighter wine of terrific linear structure with a bright, lively acidity, which in this vintage is particularly evident. The thread of blackcurrant fruit merges with a slightly dried herb and sage-like character. It is probably the most precisely focused of any Cyril to date, leading to its poise and defined, detailed finish. Surprisingly, in some ways, it gets just a 5% smidgeon of new oak with the remainder seasoned. So you are getting a clear window into the vineyard and the vintage influence. Drink 2026-2061.
97 points
Ray Jordan - Wine Pilot

100% cabernet sauvignon matured in French oak hogsheads (5% new) for 20 months. Lifted blackberry, black cherry and blackcurrant fruits with hints of olive tapenade, cedar, crushed herbs, bay leaf, violets and crushed rocks. Harmonious and silky in its travel with a core of ripe fruit layered with spice and herbs, fine, sandy tannins and a finish that draws out beautifully. No problem tucking this away in the cellar for an extended period. Drink 2026-2036.
96 points
Dave Brookes - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion

I love how distinctly this wine tastes of cabernet. It’s fresh and boysenberried with redcurrant, blackcurrant, bay leaf, mint and tobacco notes running enthusiastically throughout. It feels ultra young, almost nervy, and includes a green-olive-soaked-in-tonic-water kind of character – I’m tempted to use the word minerally – though it’s all sluiced with cleansing acidity and long, firm-but-silken tannin. There’s ample depth on offer here, and the structure to go with it, but there’s also freshness and energy. It’s terrifically good. Drink 2029 - 2040+.
95+ points
Campbell Mattinson - The Wine Front

The 2022 Cyril Henschke Cabernet Sauvignon leads with spicy red fruit, dusty baking spices and layers of dried herbs, akin to bay leaf and oregano. The tannins here are profuse yet very fine. It feels leafy and earthy, medium-bodied and fresh. I appreciate the varietal definition and delicacy here. The cooler vintage that was 2022 has birthed a tranche of wines of great delicacy and "fluffiness"/freshness. They are wonderful wines—I like the vintage so much. Drink 2026-2047.
95 points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Cyril Henschke is a savory expression, with black olive, clay and cedar aromas in a notable oak frame. The 2022 is sturdy, young and muscular with gravelly flavours, a touch of dried herbs and chewy tannins. This is a highly ageworthy vintage with brooding, understated power and a long, sustained finish. Cellar this well for best results. Drink 2035-2055.
95 points
Angus Hughson - Vinous