Henschke Croft Chardonnay 2019

Region and Vineyards

The Henschke Croft Chardonnay is sourced from the Lenswood Vineyard in the Adelaide Hills, a region renowned for its cool-climate wines. The vineyard, perched at an elevation of 550 meters (1,804 feet), enjoys higher rainfall and humidity at crucial times of the year, along with cooler temperatures that help retain high natural acidity in the grapes. The soils are primarily well-drained sandy loam over medium clay interspersed with shale fragments overlying a shale bedrock, which contributes to the unique terroir and mineral complexity of the wine.

The Henschke family purchased the Lenswood property in 1981. The chardonnay vineyard consists of seven different clones and is named after Frederick Croft, an orchardist who settled on a neighboring property in 1938. The combination of altitude, soil diversity, and careful vineyard management ensures the production of high-quality grapes that reflect the distinctive characteristics of the Adelaide Hills​​.

Winemaking

The Henschke Croft Chardonnay is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes, hand-harvested to ensure optimal quality. Fermentation occurs in barrels, with partial malolactic fermentation to enhance the wine's texture and complexity. The wine is aged for 10 months in French oak hogsheads, with 18% new oak and 82% seasoned oak, striking a balance between oak influence and the natural fruit flavors of the grapes. This method preserves the wine's fresh acidity while adding subtle oak nuances that complement its rich, fruit-driven profile​​.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Pale straw with green hues.
• Aroma: Lifted and fragrant aromas of cut pear, white peach, nectarine, citrus, and custard apple, supported by baking spices and toasted cashew.
• Palate: The palate shows richness and finesse with flavors of ripe peach and pear providing a fleshy, textural quality, complemented by overtones of crème brûlée and oatmeal. These characters are beautifully balanced by fresh citrus acidity and subtle oak nuances, giving the wine depth and finishing with incredible length.

Did you know?

The Lenswood Vineyard, where Henschke Croft Chardonnay is grown, was purchased by Stephen and Prue Henschke in 1981. The vineyard's unique terroir and careful management practices have allowed Henschke to produce some of the finest cool-climate Chardonnays in Australia, showcasing the family's commitment to excellence in winemaking​​.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Steamed Pomfret Fish with Local Pipis and Sea Vegetables in a Light Jellyfish Tamarind Broth: The wine’s fresh citrus acidity and complex flavors complement the delicate and savory notes of this dish.
• Roast Chicken with Lemon and Thyme: The rich, textural quality of the wine pairs beautifully with the savory and aromatic profile of roast chicken.
• Creamy Mushroom Risotto: The wine’s subtle oak nuances and vibrant acidity enhance the earthy and creamy flavors of a mushroom risotto.

History of Henschke Estate

The Henschke estate was established in 1868 by Johann Christian Henschke, who emigrated from Silesia, Germany, to Australia in the mid-19th century. The winery gained early recognition for its quality wines and has been passed down through generations, each contributing to its legacy.

Cyril Henschke, representing the third generation, was a pioneering winemaker who introduced single-vineyard wines, including the now-iconic Hill of Grace in 1958. His innovative approach and commitment to quality set the foundation for the estate’s modern reputation.

Today, the estate is managed by fifth-generation winemakers Stephen and Prue Henschke, who continue to uphold the family’s traditions while integrating sustainable and biodynamic farming practices. Under their leadership, Henschke has maintained its status as one of Australia’s premier wine producers, celebrated globally for its exceptional wines.

Region and Vineyards

The Henschke vineyards are located primarily in the Eden Valley, with some holdings in the Barossa Valley. The Eden Valley's elevation and cooler climate provide ideal conditions for growing premium grape varieties, particularly Shiraz, Riesling, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The soils in this region are diverse, ranging from sandy loam over clay to rocky schist, contributing to the complexity and unique character of the wines.

The Hill of Grace vineyard is perhaps the most famous, featuring some of the oldest Shiraz vines in the world, planted in the 1860s. These ancient, dry-grown vines produce grapes of remarkable depth and intensity, forming the backbone of Henschke’s flagship wine.

Other notable vineyards include Mount Edelstone, renowned for its Shiraz, and Lenswood in the Adelaide Hills, known for its cool-climate varieties.

Wine Range

Henschke offers a diverse range of wines, each reflecting the unique terroir of their respective vineyards. The portfolio includes:

• Hill of Grace: An iconic single-vineyard Shiraz, known for its depth, complexity, and aging potential.
• Mount Edelstone: Another distinguished Shiraz from ancient vines, celebrated for its rich flavors and elegant structure.
• Keyneton Estate Euphonium: A harmonious blend of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot, showcasing the synergy of Barossa and Eden Valley fruit.
• Johann’s Garden: A tribute to the early German settlers, this blend of Grenache, Mataro, and Shiraz is vibrant and aromatic.
• Cyril Henschke Cabernet Sauvignon: Named after Cyril Henschke, this wine exemplifies the excellence of Eden Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.
• Tilly’s Vineyard: A crisp and refreshing white blend, highlighting the diversity of the Henschke vineyards.

Did you know?

The Hill of Grace vineyard, located opposite the historic Gnadenberg Church, draws its name from the German term Gnadenberg, meaning "Hill of Grace." This vineyard, with vines over 150 years old, remains ungrafted and is one of the few pre-phylloxera vineyards in the world. The Henschke family’s dedication to preserving these ancient vines showcases their commitment to heritage and excellence in winemaking.