1996 Penfolds St Henri Shiraz 1.5L Magnum timber case

1500ml Magnum bottle, wooden gift box

95/100 — Jeremy Oliver · 1996 Vintage
Tasted: Jan 2003
“When to drink: 2008 to 2016”

Penfolds St Henri is a multi-regional South Australian blend, primarily based on Shiraz, matured in seasoned large oak vats for around 15 to 18 months before bottling. With its proven style and ageing potential, St Henri holds a unique stature in the story of Australian wine and remains a favourite among Penfolds collectors.

One of the best vintages of recent times. The season began with much needed rain during autumn and winter, followed by a mostly cool and dry spring, and concluded with ideal conditions of reasonable soil moisture and mild to warm weather.

Tasting Notes

Dense red with purple hues near the rim. Lively, rich and concentrated raspberry and blueberry characters leap from the glass, layered with complex spices of cinnamon and ginger, fruitcake nuances and savoury charcuterie notes. The palate is tight, complex and stylish, with dark plum and prune flavours supported by anise, liquorice and fennel subtleties. Fruit-derived, pronounced and angular tannins suggest a wine of excellent balance and mouthfeel, a St Henri trademark.

Specifications

• Vintage: 1996
• Grape Variety: Shiraz
• Region: South Australia / Australia
• Vineyard / Geo info: Adelaide Hills / Barossa Valley / McLaren Vale
• Alcohol: 14%
• Sweetness: Dry
• Acidity TA: 7.1 g/L
• Acidity pH: 3.47
• Maturation: 12 months in large wood vats
• Production Attributes: American oak
• Winemaker: Peter Gago
• Ownership: Treasury Wine Estates
• Closure: Cork or screwcap