Keyneton Euphonium 2018

Originating from the Barossa region of South Australia, Henschke Keyneton Euphonium is a blend of vineyards located primarily in Keyneton, in the Eden Valley, complemented by select parcels from the Barossa Valley. The historic, family-owned Henschke estate cultivates these vines on ancient soils of shale, silt, and gravel, at a moderate altitude that promotes cooler nights. This temperature contrast helps preserve aromatic freshness and refine the tannic structure. The result is a wine that reflects both the richness of the Barossa and the fresher elegance of the Eden Valley.

The grapes for Keyneton Euphonium 2018 are hand-harvested and destemmed before fermentation in open vats with regular pump-overs to extract color and tannins. The wine is then pressed and transferred to French oak barrels (some of which are new) for malolactic fermentation and extended aging, allowing the structure to refine and aromatic complexity to develop before final blending and bottling at the estate.

This wine reveals notes of blackberry , blackcurrant , and black plum , complemented by hints of violet and dried flowers . Spicy nuances of pepper , garrigue , and licorice mingle with subtle oak reminiscent of cedar , dark chocolate , and a touch of tobacco . The palate is full and concentrated, supported by fresh acidity, firm yet polished tannins, and a long, flavorful, and slightly spicy finish.

Australia began producing wine more than two centuries ago. This has resulted in a country rich in old vines, multigenerational winemaking families, and a deep-rooted knowledge and respect for craftsmanship. Add to this a thirst for exploration and innovation, a fearless attitude, and a diverse portfolio of 65 wine regions across a wide range of climates, and you have the makings of an extraordinary wine nation. Australia burst onto the export scene in the 1980s and has since been offering the world vibrant, fruity, and exceptionally good-value wines. Until the late 1990s and early 2000s, the history of Australian wine was dominated by examples of Shiraz, Grenache, and overly concentrated red blends. Between these two extremes lies the diverse range of high-quality Australian wines and regional wines that has always existed. Australian viticulture is concentrated primarily along the southern coastline where conditions are cooler. There are four main wine regions, each centered around major cities: Western Australia around Perth, South Australia around Adelaide, Victoria around Melbourne, and New South Wales around Sydney. The country is one of the world's largest wine producers and was the fourth-largest exporter in 2011. This recent development has made Australia one of the most prominent countries for the quality of its wines. You can taste Australian wines throughout the country. Each Australian region has its own grape varieties. Australian wines are defined by their grape variety, unlike French wines, which are defined by their terroir.