Henschke Keyneton Euphonium 2023

Winemaking Notes

Keyneton Euphonium is a beautiful composition of Shiraz sourced from vines up to 50 years old growing across the Eden and Barossa Valleys, blended with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc from selected vineyards in both regions. The 2023 blend comprises 65% Shiraz, 33% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2% Cabernet Franc, harvested between 21 March and 5 May. Following harvest, the wine was matured in 10% new and 90% seasoned French oak hogsheads for 17 months prior to blending and bottling — a regime that imparts subtle oak complexity whilst preserving the purity and vibrancy of the fruit. With a cellaring potential of 25 years or more from vintage, the 2023 Keyneton Euphonium is built to evolve and reward patience.

Vintage Conditions

By late winter of 2022, soil profiles across the Barossa and Eden Valleys had been thoroughly replenished by well above average rainfall, which continued throughout spring. Shoot thinning during the growing season helped open up the canopy and manage disease pressure. Dry and cool conditions in December persisted throughout summer, causing late flowering and impacting fruit set. Light rain events in autumn slowed the ripening period in the lead-up to harvest, providing excellent flavour development and strong acid retention. Despite the seasonal challenges, yields were above average, with larger berry size compensating for the poor set. The 2023 vintage is rated Excellent — producing wines of outstanding fruit purity, good structure, mature tannins, and great length.

History

The Barossa hills village of Keyneton was established by pastoralist Joseph Keynes in 1842 and became a musical and cultural focus for the surrounding community — and home to both the Henschke Family Brass Band and Henschke Winery. The band was founded in 1888 by second-generation Paul Gotthard Henschke and later led by third-generation Paul Alfred Henschke, featuring wonderful wind instruments including a B flat euphonium, cornet, and E flat clarinet. The B flat euphonium itself was produced by the renowned Zimmermann factory in Leipzig, Germany, in the late 19th century, and imported to Australia by musical entrepreneur Carl Engel of Adelaide. These instruments have been lovingly restored and remain in the care of the Henschke family to this day — a fitting tribute to the heritage and artistry that continues to inspire one of the Barossa’s most iconic wines.