2005 Henschke Tappa Pass Shiraz 750ml

Awards & Ratings

94 pts – CellarTracker
93 pts – The Wine Front
93 pts – Wine Enthusiast

About This Wine

The Henschke Tappa Pass Shiraz 2005 represents the exceptional quality of an outstanding Barossa vintage.
Produced from 100% old-vine Shiraz grown in Eden Valley and Barossa Valley, the fruit was sourced from low-yielding, 50-year-old vines rooted in ancient Neoproterozoic soils — over 540 million years old.
Matured in 80% new and 20% seasoned French oak hogsheads for 18 months, this wine displays remarkable depth, purity, and longevity, standing as one of Henschke’s finest regional expressions.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Very deep crimson with brick-red hues.
Nose: Complex and spicy, showing blueberries, blackberries, and plums with notes of roasted meat, pepper, and tar.
Palate: Intensely fruited and richly textured, layered with chocolate, leather, and savoury spice. Velvety tannins balance the palate, leading to a long, lingering finish of depth and power.

Vinification & Maturation

Variety: 100% Shiraz

Region: Eden Valley & Barossa Valley, South Australia

Harvest: 7 March – 17 April 2005

Maturation: 18 months in 80% new and 20% seasoned French oak hogsheads

Alcohol: 15% vol

pH: 3.56

Acidity: 5.9 g/L

Fermentation: Traditional open-top fermenters

Cellaring Potential: Exceptional vintage – 20+ years

Vintage Notes

2005 was a warm, early, and compact harvest across the Barossa.
Winter rains replenished subsoil moisture, followed by a mild spring and alternating summer rainfall that encouraged even ripening and deep colour.
This vintage ranks among the best since 2002, producing powerful yet refined Shiraz with great structure and longevity.

Food Pairing

Perfect with roast lamb, aged beef, or slow-cooked pork shoulder.
Also pairs beautifully with peppered venison or mushroom-based dishes.