Henschke 'The Wheelwright' Shiraz 2016 (100ml)

Henschke is one of Australia’s great family estates, run by fifth-generation winemaker Stephen Henschke and viticulturist Prue Henschke, whose innovation has shaped the modern Barossa.

The jewel is the ‘Hill of Grace’ cuvée, a single-vineyard Shiraz from vines dating back to the 1860s, but the range stretches across Eden Valley and showcases both power and finesse. Farming is increasingly biodynamic, with a strong emphasis on soil health and long-term sustainability.

The wines are polished yet deeply rooted in place, reflecting a family that has spent more than 150 years learning every corner of its vineyards.

Australia’s wine story began with colonial plantings in the late eighteenth century and took off through the work of early European settlers.

The wine landscape is vast and varied, shaped by a mix of maritime, continental and desert-like influences across its key regions. Its appellation system is built around zones, which focus on geographic origin rather than strict rules on grape or style. Classic varieties such as Shiraz (Syrah), Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay lead the way, with Riesling and Grenache also playing important roles, plus a recent influx of ‘Mediterranean’ grapes are also turning heads. From the bold reds of Barossa to the cool climate elegance of Margaret River and Tasmania, Australia offers a huge spectrum of flavours. The country’s modern approach champions innovation, sustainability and a clear expression of place.

Barossa is one of Australia’s most recognisable wine regions and a benchmark for full-flavoured Shiraz. The warm climate and old vine plantings create deep rich wines with dark fruit spice and a generous, rounded texture. Grenache and Mourvèdre also feature strongly, often blended into classic GSM styles. The Eden Valley, which sits higher up is cooler and delivers aromatic Riesling with often bracing acidity. Winemaking in Barossa ranges from traditional techniques to modern small batch approaches but the focus remains on ripe fruit clarity and confident bold flavours.