Henschke Croft Chardonnay 2019

Henschke Croft Chardonnay 2019

 

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Henschke
Croft Chardonnay 2019
  • Vintage : 2019
  • Country : Australia
  • Region : Eden Valley
  • Subregion :
  • Type : White
  • Style : Creamy Full Bodied White
  • Format : 75cl
  • Alcohol : 13,5°
  • Grappes : 100% Chardonnay

The Henschke Croft Chardonnay is an elegant and refined wine from the Adelaide Hills, showcasing the sophisticated balance and complexity of cool-climate Chardonnay. This wine reveals an exquisite harmony of fruit, acidity, and oak, a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship of Henschke's winemaking tradition.

Experts Score Vintage
DCT Decanter 94 2019
JS James Suckling 93 2019
RP Robert Parker 93 2019
JH James Halliday 91 2019
WE Wine Enthusiast 92 2018
More information on wine critics and ratings

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.

Decanter (DCT) : 94 Points (2019)
Mild mannered but with firm sinewy muscle that allows this delicate fruit to speak strongly. It’s a long single note on a viola: poise and precision through a clean white peach belly with bright lemon at its core. Understated elegance. (4/2021)

James Suckling (JS) : 93 Points (2019)
This is looking attractively pure and fresh with aromas of sliced pear and white peach, as well as apple and lemon. The palate has crystalline acidity, set amid ripe pears and melon and a hint of savory nougat. Drink or hold. (5/2021)

Robert Parker (RP) : 93 Points (2019)
Although marked by accents of toasted grain and nuts, the focus of the excellent 2019 Croft Chardonnay is on the wonderfully pristine white peach and pineapple fruit. Medium to full-bodied and joyfully generous on the palate, it's focused and streamlined at the same time, flowing easily into a long, citrus-inflected and silken finish. The best Croft Chardonnay to date? (3/2021)

James Halliday (JH) : 91 Points (2019)
From the estate Lenswood vineyard at 550m elevation. Fermented and matured 10 months in 14% new French oak puncheons, hogsheads and barriques. A chardonnay of concentration and tension from a low-yielding season. Spicy grapefruit, fig and fleshy, ripe white peach is accented with notes of wild honey and underlined by cashew nut French oak. Plump fruit sweetness contrasts with grapefruit zest acidity and subtle phenolic bite on a long finish. (8/2021)

Wine Enthusiast (WE) : 92 Points (2018)
Croft neatly displays the bright, fleshy fruit of the Adelaide Hills in this polished and age worthy-yet-drinkable Chard. There’s an abundance of melon, peach and red apple aromas on the nose, and some vanilla bean, too. The palate is equally fruity and full figured, the textural roundness buoyed by bright acidity. A well balanced wine for drinking now or until around 2029. 

Henschke Mount Edelstone Shiraz 2018
Henschke Mount Edelstone Shiraz 2018
Henschke
Mount Edelstone Shiraz 2018
WS
94
RP
96
JH
98
Henschke Mount Edelstone Shiraz is a prestigious single-vineyard wine from Eden Valley, South Australia. Known for its deep flavors and exceptional aging potential, this wine is a standout example of Australian Shiraz.
215,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Henschke Cyril Henschke Cabernet 2018
Henschke Cyril Henschke Cabernet 2018
Henschke
Cyril Henschke Cabernet 2018
JS
96
RP
93
JH
96
Showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship of Henschke, the Cyril Henschke Cabernet offers a sublime balance of rich fruit and sophisticated structure.
169,00 €
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Henschke Louis Semillon 2017
Henschke Louis Semillon 2017
Henschke
Louis Semillon 2017
RP
91
The Henschke Louis Semillon is an exquisite expression from Eden Valley, showcasing the elegance and complexity of old vine Semillon. This wine is a testament to meticulous winemaking, offering a harmonious blend of citrus and floral notes with a refined minerality.
27,90 €
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Henschke Julius Riesling 2023
Henschke Julius Riesling 2023
Henschke
Julius Riesling 2023
JS
95
JS
96
WS
90
Experience the crisp elegance of Henschke Julius Riesling, a wine that captivates with its lively citrus flavors and floral aromas, underpinned by a refreshing mineral finish. Perfect for any occasion that calls for a touch of sophistication!
46,90 €
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Henschke Henry
Henschke Henry's Seven 2023
Henschke
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RP
93
JS
93
WE
95
This complex and harmonious red wine honors the memory of Henry Evans, offering an exquisite fusion of Shiraz, Grenache, Mataro, and Viognier from the renowned Barossa wine region.
39,00 €
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Henschke Johann
Henschke Johann's Garden 2018
Henschke
Johann's Garden 2018
DCT
94
WS
92
RP
92
The Henschke Johann's Garden is an exquisite blend that pays homage to the early German pioneers of the Barossa Valley, delivering a symphony of rich, vibrant flavors and refined elegance.
54,90 €
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Henschke Keyneton Estate Euphonium 2018
Henschke Keyneton Estate Euphonium 2018
Henschke
Keyneton Estate Euphonium 2018
WS
91
RP
92
JH
95
This blend from Henschke celebrates tradition and terroir, combining Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot to create a wine of exceptional depth and balance.
58,50 €
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Henschke Hill of Grace 2018
Henschke Hill of Grace 2018
Henschke
Hill of Grace 2018
JS
99
WS
97
RP
98
The Hill of Grace by Henschke exemplifies the pinnacle of Australian winemaking, combining over 150 years of family tradition with exceptional vineyard management and winemaking expertise.
765,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Wine regions guide
44,90 €
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