Henschke Johann's Garden 2018

Region and Vineyards

Henschke Johann's Garden is sourced from the Barossa Valley, a region renowned for its diverse microclimates and rich soils. The vineyards are composed of limestone soils, which provide excellent drainage and contribute to the intensity and complexity of the fruit. The Barossa Valley's warm climate, coupled with the cool nights, allows for a slow ripening process, which preserves the grapes' natural acidity and enhances their aromatic profile.

The vineyards consist of low-yielding, old, gnarled, dry-grown bush and trellised vines. These vines, with their deep roots and limited water supply, produce small, concentrated berries with intense flavors. 

Winemaking

The Johann's Garden is a blend of 77% Grenache, 19% Mataro, and 4% Shiraz. Each variety is vinified separately to retain its unique characteristics. The winemaking process includes traditional open-top fermentation, a technique that enhances the extraction of flavors and tannins. After fermentation, the wine is matured for 8 months in seasoned French hogsheads, allowing the components to integrate harmoniously while adding subtle oak nuances.

This careful vinification and aging process results in a wine that is rich, complex, and well-balanced, showcasing the best attributes of each grape variety. The 2018 vintage benefited from an excellent growing season, with moderate winter rainfall, ideal spring conditions, and a warm, dry summer, leading to fully mature and healthy grapes​​.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep crimson with garnet hues.
• Aroma: Lifted aromas of fresh Provencal herbs, black pepper, and anise, with notes of cherry, Satsuma plum, blackberry, mulberry compote, and blood orange zest.
• Palate: Rich and juicy with fleshy raspberry, ripe plum, and spiced berry compote, creating layers of texture with fine, grainy tannins and linear acidity for a balanced and elegantly long finish.

Did you know?

Johann's Garden is named in tribute to the early German Silesian pioneers of the Barossa Valley, many of whom were named Johann. Their perseverance and hard work laid the foundations for the region's rich viticultural heritage. The name "Garden" reflects the traditional German term weingarten used by these settlers to describe their vineyards. This wine is a celebration of their enduring legacy and the rich cultural history of the Barossa Valley​​.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops: The aromatic herbs and succulent lamb pair beautifully with the wine's rich fruit and spice notes.
• Ratatouille Provençale: The medley of vegetables and herbs enhances the wine's complex bouquet and juicy palate.
• Duck Breast with Cherry Reduction: The sweet and tangy cherry sauce complements the wine's berry flavors and balanced acidity.
• Aged Manchego Cheese: The nutty, slightly tangy flavors of Manchego cheese harmonize with the wine's fine tannins and long finish.

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.