Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the nose on the 2009 Hill of Grace is a little closed, though it reveals notes of warm black plums, blackberry coulis and cloves with subtle nuances of dried Provence herbs, forest floor and lavender. Medium to full-bodied, it possesses layers of medium to full-bodied black fruit and earth-laced flesh elegantly structured by a medium to firm level of finely grained tannins, nicely balanced acid and a long finish. Drink it now to 2026+. Imported by Negociants USA, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-0993

Planted in the 1860s, the Hill of Grace vineyard has its own particular character – emblematic of the Eden Valley style of rich and fragrant cool-climate Shiraz, combining both elegance and driving power thanks to its ancient vines. Matured in 78% French and 22% American hogsheads for 21 months before blending and bottling, this also shows the Henschke house style, with its amplified perfume of blackberry, violets and sage that pushes right to edge of VA thresholds. Beautifully balanced flavours drive through a long palate, chaperoned by discrete, fine-grained tannins.