Penfolds St Henri Shiraz 2012

Winemaking and Drinking

Penfolds St Henri Shiraz 2012: A Timeless Classic

The Penfolds St Henri Shiraz 2012 is a distinguished example of a classic Australian Shiraz, known for its elegance, depth, and exceptional aging potential. Crafted by the renowned Penfolds winery, this vintage stands out in a lineup of premium Australian wines, embodying the rich winemaking heritage that Penfolds is famous for.

Wine Overview

The 2012 vintage of the St Henri Shiraz is a testament to the ideal growing conditions of that year. Produced from grapes sourced from vineyards across South Australia, including the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, and Adelaide Hills, this wine is unique in that it is matured in large, old, seasoned oak vats rather than small, new barrels. This practice preserves the purity of the fruit and imparts subtle complexity without overpowering the wine with oak flavors.

Tasting Notes

On the nose, the Penfolds St Henri Shiraz 2012 offers a bouquet of ripe, dark fruits, including blackberry, blackcurrant, and plum, intertwined with notes of dark chocolate, licorice, and a hint of spice. As the wine opens up, more delicate aromas of dried herbs, black olives, and earth emerge, adding to its complexity.

The palate is rich and full-bodied, with a plush texture and fine-grained tannins that provide structure without overwhelming the fruit. The dark fruit flavors are prominent, with layers of black cherry, plum, and mulberry complemented by savory notes of leather, tobacco, and mocha. The wine's acidity is perfectly balanced, lending freshness and lift to the lush fruit profile. The finish is long, smooth, and persistent, leaving a lasting impression of fruit, spice, and a touch of minerality.

Awards and Accolades

The Penfolds St Henri Shiraz 2012 has been widely acclaimed by critics and has garnered numerous accolades. It received a stellar 97 points from James Halliday, who praised its "impeccable balance and structure," highlighting its potential for long-term aging. Additionally, it earned 96 points from Wine Spectator, noting its "elegant complexity" and "beautifully integrated tannins."

The wine has also been recognized with several awards, including a Gold Medal at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) and high ratings from other prestigious wine publications. The 2012 vintage is celebrated as one of the finest expressions of St Henri in recent years, offering both immediate enjoyment and the promise of further development with cellaring.

Conclusion

The Penfolds St Henri Shiraz 2012 is a wine of exceptional quality, reflecting the best of traditional winemaking techniques and the unique terroir of South Australia. With its rich, layered flavors and remarkable aging potential, it is a wine that will continue to evolve and delight for decades to come. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for future occasions, the St Henri Shiraz 2012 is a quintessential expression of Penfolds' commitment to excellence in winemaking.