Henschke Keyneton Estate Euphonium 2018

Henschke Keyneton Estate Euphonium 2018

 

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Henschke
Keyneton Estate Euphonium 2018
  • Vintage : 2018
  • Country : Australia
  • Region : Eden Valley
  • Subregion :
  • Type : Red
  • Style : Deep Full Bodied
  • Format : 75cl
  • Alcohol : 14°
  • Grappes : 65% Syrah, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, 3% Merlot

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.

Experts Score Vintage
JH James Halliday 95 2018
WE Wine Enthusiast 95 2018
JS James Suckling 95 2018
RP Robert Parker 92 2018
WS Wine Spectator 91 2018
DCT Decanter 91 2018
More information on wine critics and ratings

Region and Vineyards

The Henschke Keyneton Estate Euphonium is sourced from the Barossa and Eden Valleys, two of South Australia's most renowned wine regions.

  • The Eden Valley is known for its high-altitude vineyards, with elevations that provide cooler temperatures and longer growing seasons, which help to preserve the natural acidity and aromatic complexity of the grapes.
  • The Barossa Valley, on the other hand, offers a warmer climate and rich soils that contribute to the intensity and depth of flavor in the wines.

The vineyards benefit from a variety of soil types, including loamy sands and red-brown earth over clay, which provide excellent drainage and optimal conditions for vine growth. The combination of these diverse terroirs allows the Henschke family to produce grapes of exceptional quality, which are then meticulously blended to create the Keyneton Estate Euphonium.

Winemaking

The Keyneton Estate Euphonium is composed of 65% Shiraz, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Merlot. The grapes are harvested from mid-March to late April, ensuring each variety is picked at optimal ripeness. The winemaking process begins with fermentation in traditional open-top concrete fermenters, allowing for gentle extraction of flavors and tannins. The wine undergoes full malolactic fermentation, enhancing its richness and texture.

Following fermentation, the wine is matured for 18 months in 20% new and 80% seasoned French and American oak hogsheads, which adds layers of complexity and integrates the oak seamlessly with the fruit. This careful aging process results in a wine that is both powerful and elegant, with the capacity to age gracefully for over 25 years​​.

Tasting Notes

  • Color: Deep crimson with vibrant ruby hues.
  • Aroma: Lifted aromas of ripe blackberry, blackcurrant, cassis, Satsuma plum, blueberry, anise, and violets, with hints of black pepper and cedar.
  • Palate: Rich and concentrated flavors of dark plum, blackberry, and blackcurrant, with a pure, plush, and focused mid-palate. Bright, balanced acidity and excellent length, carried by fine-grained, ripe tannins.

Did you know?

The Keyneton Euphonium is named in honor of the Henschke Family Brass Band, which was founded in 1888 by second-generation Paul Gotthard Henschke. The band featured various wind instruments, including a B-flat euphonium produced by the famous Zimmermann factory in Leipzig, Germany, in the late 19th century. These instruments were imported to Australia by Carl Engel, a musical entrepreneur, and have been lovingly restored and preserved by the Henschke family​​.

Wine Pairing Ideas

  • Braised Short Ribs with Polenta: The rich, tender meat and creamy polenta create a perfect match for the wine's concentrated fruit flavors and fine tannins.
  • Mushroom and Truffle Risotto: The earthy and aromatic notes of truffles and mushrooms enhance the wine's complex bouquet and velvety texture.
  • Pork Tenderloin with Figs and Balsamic Reduction: The sweetness of the figs and the tangy balsamic glaze complement the wine's vibrant acidity and dark fruit character.
  • Lamb Tagine with Apricots and Almonds: The exotic spices and sweetness of apricots in this North African dish pair beautifully with the wine's spice notes and balanced structure.

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 Halliday (JH) : 95 Points (2018)
Detail is a wonderful thing. If you stick your nose in the glass and close your eyes, perhaps tilt your head just so, you can pick out the individual components of this wine, yet they mesh together perfectly. Juicy berry and plum fruits, abundant spice, fine-grind tannin grip, a fine lacy acid line and an elegant, perfectly poised, slow fade out of pure fruit.

Wine Enthusiast (WE) : 95 Points (2018)
Euphonium is a blend of Shiraz, both Cabs and Merlot, all from old vines. In typical Henschke style, it’s distinctively aromatic. Chinese Five Spice, beetroot and green peppercorn weave between red- and black-berry fruit. The pal- ate is powerful with lovely tangy acidity, a satiny quality to the fruit and a frame of fine, dusty tannins. Drinking with ease now, this could continue to age for 7-8 years more.

James Suckling (JS) : 95 Points (2018)
Spicy and creamy shiraz-based blend with velvety tannins framing a silky core of dark fruit, licorice, cloves, grilled herbs and spices. Five spice and smoked paprika coming through. Full-bodied yet elegant.

Robert Parker (RP) : 92 Points (2018)
The 2018 Keyneton Euphonium is a blend of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot and carries a profusion of dusty black tannin and brooding purple fruit. There are notes of meat broth, field mushrooms, fresh leather, blackberry, brown sugar and a molasses character. I know from some of the other Henschke reds that the fruit actually rises above the structure with a decant (or time in the glass), so this is recommended in order to catch the beautiful 2018 fruit on offer here. This is a savory wine—layered and long.

Wine Spectator (WS) : 91 Points (2018)
Leads with toasted herbs and touches of tobacco and peppery spices, which add an appealing savory element, while details of cumin and bay leaf mix with a core of cassis and blackberry on a plush, elegant frame.

Decanter (DCT) : 91 Points (2018)
Classic aromas of cassis and mint on the nose. Suave and elegant, with sinewy tannins and a firm structure.

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 2022
Henschke Julius Riesling 2022
Henschke
Julius Riesling 2022
JS
96
WS
90
RP
95
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!
45,90 €
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Henschke Henry
Henschke Henry's Seven 2022
Henschke
Henry's Seven 2022
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
WS
92
RP
92
W&S
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 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 €
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Henschke Croft Chardonnay 2019
Henschke Croft Chardonnay 2019
Henschke
Croft Chardonnay 2019
RP
93
JH
91
DCT
94

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 €
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Wine regions guide
61,50 €
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