Penfolds St Henri Shiraz 2023
Patience and perspective shaped St Henri 2023. A long, cool season has delivered depth and structure, allowing the wine's savoury complexity to unfold naturally over time. As always, unencumbered by the presence of oak.
"Patience and perspective shaped St Henri 2023. A long, cool season has delivered depth and structure allowing the wine's savoury complexity to unfold naturally over time. As always, unencumbered by the presence of oak."
— Steph Dutton, Penfolds Director of Winemaking
Tasting Notes
Juicy and generous yet firmly structured. A deep, dark fruit profile is matched by the umami savouriness of rare steak and an olive-brined undertone. Tannins are impeccable — tight, finely woven and assured, drawing the palate long and detailed. Nuances of Chinese tea, fennel and liquorice provide precision and persistence, finishing with restraint, depth and unmistakable St Henri authority.
Vintage Conditions
The 2023 growing season was characterised by a cool, wet La Niña influence across southern Australia. Above-average winter and spring rainfall delivered high soil moisture but reduced heat accumulation. Flowering under cool, unsettled conditions resulted in variable fruit set and lower yields. A long, mild summer with limited heat events allowed slow, even ripening. The harvest was later than average across all contributing regions, delivering fruit of exceptional structure, depth and freshness.
Winemaking
Shiraz (with a small proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon) from McLaren Vale, Barossa Valley, Frankland River, Port Lincoln and Padthaway. Matured 12 months in large, seasoned oak vats — no new oak. Alc/Vol: 14.5% | pH: 3.63 | Acidity: 6.9 g/L. Cork closure.
About St Henri
Released for the first time in the early 1950s (first commercial vintage 1957), St Henri is a time-honoured and alternative expression of Shiraz — an intriguing counterpoint to Grange. Unusual amongst high-quality Australian reds, it does not rely on any new oak, maturing instead in large seasoned vats that impart minimal oak character. Rich and plush when young, it gains soft, earthy, mocha-like characters with age. A wine style that has not succumbed to the dictates of fashion or commerce.
Critic Scores
19/20 — Matthew Jukes
97pts — Jeni Port
97pts — Nick Ryan
97pts — Dave Brookes
96pts — Erin Larkin
Peak Drinking
Now – 2050. Best from 2028.
When purchased in a case of 6 bottles, this wine comes in a Penfolds branded wooden box.
