Hentley Farm The Beast Shiraz 2015

Winemaking and Drinking

Hentley Farm, nestled in the Seppeltsfield sub region of Barossa Valley, Australia, is renowned for producing some of the world's finest Shiraz wines. The 2015 vintage of "The Beast" Shiraz stands out as a testament to the winery's commitment to quality and tradition. Established in 1997 by Keith and Alison Hentschke, Hentley Farm quickly gained a reputation for its single-estate wines that reflect the unique terroir of Barossa Valley. The name "The Beast" aptly describes this Shiraz, symbolizing its bold, powerful character, and robust flavor profile.

The 2015 vintage benefited from ideal growing conditions in the Barossa Valley. The region experienced a warm and dry spring, leading to early budburst and uniform flowering. Summer brought moderate temperatures and consistent ripening, while the cool nights of late summer and early autumn allowed for the development of complex flavors and balanced acidity. The grapes for The Beast Shiraz were hand-picked from select blocks within Hentley Farm's estate vineyards, chosen for their exceptional fruit quality and concentration.

Tasting Notes

The Beast Shiraz 2015 is a full-bodied wine that embodies the essence of Barossa Valley Shiraz. In the glass, it presents a deep, inky purple hue, indicative of its intensity. The nose is rich and complex, with aromas of blackberry, dark cherry, and plum, intertwined with hints of black pepper, licorice, and subtle oak. There is also a whisper of eucalyptus, adding a distinct Australian character to the bouquet.

On the palate, The Beast is powerful yet elegant, with a dense core of ripe dark fruits, including blackcurrant and mulberry. The fruit is complemented by layers of dark chocolate, coffee, and earthy undertones, giving the wine depth and complexity. Fine-grained tannins provide structure and balance, while a vibrant acidity ensures a long, refreshing finish. The wine's oak aging, predominantly in French barrels, imparts subtle vanilla and spice notes, enhancing the overall harmony and sophistication.

Awards and Recognition

The Beast Shiraz 2015 has garnered significant acclaim both domestically and internationally. Among its accolades are:

• Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco International Wine Competition
• Gold Medal at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC)
• 95 Points from James Halliday's Wine Companion, a leading Australian wine publication
• 96 Points from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
• Gold Medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards

These awards highlight the exceptional quality and craftsmanship behind The Beast Shiraz 2015, cementing its status as a standout vintage.

The Vineyard

The grapes for The Beast Shiraz 2015 were sourced from Hentley Farm's estate vineyards, particularly from the higher elevation blocks known for their rocky, well-drained soils. These blocks produce smaller berries with intense flavor concentration and natural acidity. The careful vineyard management practices, including low yield farming and hand harvesting, ensure that only the finest grapes make it into the wine. The unique microclimate of these blocks, combined with Hentley Farm's meticulous winemaking techniques, results in a Shiraz that truly captures the essence of the Barossa Valley terroir.

In summary, Hentley Farm The Beast Shiraz 2015 is a remarkable wine that showcases the best of what the Barossa Valley has to offer. Its bold flavors, elegant structure, and critical acclaim make it a must-try for any wine enthusiast.