1994 Henschke Hill of Grace Shiraz 1.5L magnum

1500ml Magnum, very very high shoulder, minor cellar scuffed capsule, original timber case Producer Notes Hill of Grace is surely one of the most evocative phrases in the world of wine. It is a translation from the German ‘Gnadenberg’, a region in Silesia, and the name given to the lovely Lutheran church that overlooks the vineyard. The 4ha single-vineyard shiraz planting is situated at the historic village of Parrot Hill 4km north-west of Henschke Cellars. Vintage Description Due to a mild dry summer, there was quite a late, slow start to vintage. March temperatures were mild to high, which had a dramatic affect causing everything to ripen at once. The fruit quality was just fantastic, with below average yields and fabulous colours, flavours and acid balance in the reds. The 1994 was one of our best years on record. Wine Description A deep brooding spicy perfumed bouquet of plums, prunes, licorice and blackberries supported by hints of vanillin and eucalypt. A rich intense and complex palate with soft silky textured tannins, a fine acidity giving excellent depth and length. Drinking Window: 2002-2035 TOP VINTAGES: 2013, 2012, 2010, 2009, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2002, 1999, 1998, 1996, 1994, 1992, 1991, 1990, 1986, 1978, 1972, 1962, 1959, 1958.  Critic tasting note: (1994 vintage) "Exceptional vintage. Quite a tarry first impression here, this has a strong stamp of the vineyard in a good season that has brought the best characters to the fore. Plenty of fragrant five spice and a clear dried sage leaf nuance too, lovely aromatics, bright red and purple cherries, berries and plums, sarsaparilla, all components looking good here. The palate has strength, focus and drive with bright tannins and crisp acid framing supple fruit flesh - many good years ahead. Drink in 2016+." - James Suckling