Henschke Tappa Pass Barossa Shiraz 2014

Now that the price of Mount Edelstone has gone into the stratosphere ($220ish for the 2014 vintage), this is now the more affordable super-premium Henschke Shiraz. Sexy packaging too, complete with Vino-Lok closure for maximum x-factor. Sourced from grower vineyards at Tappa Pass and Light Pass.

What’s interesting here is the delicacy – sure, it’s ripe and plump, but there is a definitive light touch, and it makes this wine more impressive. Dark berry fruit, there is blueberry and black pepper which isn’t ‘usual’ for Barossa Shiraz (and it’s good). Medium bodied, but firm, the palate is carefully coiffed and gives a solid flow of black fruit. There remains a background flash of ripeness warmth, but it doesn’t serve to derail what is a clever palate.

My only question is whether this lack the killer blow for a $100 Shiraz? Best drinking: 2017-2030. 18/20, 93/100. 14.5%, $100. Would I buy it? The price is tricky. It’s nice wine, but $100 nice? Not quite.