Henschke Julius Riesling 2023

Henschke Julius Riesling 2023

 

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Henschke
Julius Riesling 2023
  • Vintage : 2023
  • Country : Australia
  • Region : Eden Valley
  • Subregion :
  • Type : White
  • Style : Medium Bodied Aromatic Dry
  • Format : 75cl
  • Alcohol : 12,5°
  • Grappes : 100% Riesling

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!

Experts Score Vintage
JS James Suckling 95 2023
JH James Halliday 97 2022
RP Robert Parker 95 2022
WE Wine Enthusiast 92 2022
WS Wine Spectator 90 2022
DCT Decanter 95 2021
More information on wine critics and ratings

Region and Vineyards

Henschke's Julius Riesling is crafted from grapes grown in the Eden Valley, a region celebrated for its premium Riesling wines. The vineyard, situated at high elevations, benefits from a cool climate that allows for slow, even ripening of the grapes. The soils are primarily sandy loam over gravel and bedrock with patches of clay, which contribute to the wine's distinctive minerality and vibrant acidity.

The Eden Valley region, also known as the "Garden of Grapes and Gums," offers a pristine environment that enhances the aromatic qualities of Riesling. The combination of altitude and diverse soil types results in wines with intense flavor concentration and excellent aging potential.

Winemaking

The Henschke Julius Riesling is made from 100% Riesling grapes, handpicked to ensure optimal quality. The grapes undergo a gentle pressing, and the juice is fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the delicate fruit and floral aromas. No oak aging is employed, allowing the pure expression of the grape and terroir to shine through. The wine is aged on its fine lees to add texture and complexity without overshadowing the primary flavors.

Tasting Notes

  • Color: Pale straw with green hues.
  • Aroma: Aromas of lime zest, white flowers, and green apple, with subtle hints of jasmine and wet stone.
  • Palate: Flavors of fresh lime juice, Granny Smith apple, and lemon curd, balanced by a crisp acidity and a lingering mineral finish.

Did you know?

The Julius Riesling is named in honor of Julius Henschke, a prominent artist and sculptor from the Henschke family, reflecting the family's deep roots and dedication to their craft. This wine continues to uphold the legacy of quality and tradition established by previous generations.

Wine Pairing Ideas

  • Oysters with Mignonette Sauce: The wine’s crisp acidity and citrus notes complement the briny sweetness of fresh oysters.
  • Thai Green Curry: The vibrant citrus and floral flavors of the wine balance the spice and richness of a Thai green curry.
  • Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Butter: The minerality and fresh acidity of the wine enhance the earthy flavors of grilled asparagus, while the lemon butter adds a complementary richness.

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.

James Suckling (JS) : 95 Points (2023)
A delicate, balletic riesling, barely nudging mid-weight. The acidity is juicy, finding an effortless confluence with subtle phenolic rims, with notes of jasmine, green apple, lime sorbet and wild fennel draped across the structural framework. Extremely long, filigree and refined. A triumph of an opening act for new head winemaker, Gwyn Olsen.

James Halliday (JH) : 97 Points (2022)
This is always a wine of utmost quality. It's flowery, fragrant lime and lemon aromas soar from the glass, the palate with its spear of unsweetened lime and lemon finish and aftertaste underlining its intensity and quality.

Robert Parker (RP) : 95 Points (2022)
2022 marks the 30th anniversary of the Julius Riesling, and what a vintage to be able to commemorate. 2022 was blisteringly good, seemingly everywhere in South Australia (and Western Australia too), and that was never more true than for Riesling. Here, in the 2022 Julius Riesling, the tension and savory precision that marks Julius is out in full force; the wine this year is littered with preserved lemon, brine, pith and crushed shells (odd, sure, given the non-proximity to ocean!) and, more interesting, leafy things too, like green tea and orchard leaves. Kaffir lime, also? Excellent.

Wine Enthusiast (WE) : 92 Points (2022)
From one of South Australia’s most long- standing producers, heady yet delicate aromas of green apple and lime blossom lead on this polished Riesling. The dry palate is lifted by a limy zing that balances the rounded mouthfeel. Drink just slightly chilled with a range of fresh seafood, or cellar for several years more.

Wine Spectator (WS) : 90 Points (2022)
Effusive, with terrific intensity to the dried pineapple, Fuji apple and tangerine flavors, while lemon blossom notes linger on the bright, juicy finish.

Decanter (DCT) : 95 Points (2021)
Confident without ever asserting too much, achieving a comforting complexity. Its clean seam of acid carries bright citrus flavours that are pretty and pristine, with a nice pull of green tartness to brace fresh lime over lemon, augmented by a soft mineral kiss to close. A selection of the best parcels from Henschke’s Eden Valley vineyards, this is a regal monarch that deserves respect.

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 €
Quantity : moins plus
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 €
Quantity : moins plus
Henschke Henry
Henschke Henry's Seven 2023
Henschke
Henry's Seven 2023
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 €
Quantity : moins plus
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 €
Quantity : moins plus
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 €
Quantity : moins plus
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
Henschke Croft Chardonnay 2019
Henschke Croft Chardonnay 2019
Henschke
Croft Chardonnay 2019
DCT
94
JS
93
RP
93
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.
44,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Wine regions guide
46,90 €
Quantity : Moins     Plus
 
 
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