Henschke's Keyneton Euphonium is a beautiful composition of Shiraz from up to 50-year-old vines grown in the Eden and Barossa Valleys. This is blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc from selected vineyards in both regions; some of which were planted by Cyril Henschke back in the 1960's.
The 2017 Henschke Keyneton Euphonium delivers a wonderful rendition of this hugely popular wine. The nose offers intense aromas of ripe, spicy red currant, Satsuma plum, rhubarb, boysenberry and blackberry with lifted hints of cassis, violets, sage, bay leaf, black pepper, baking spices and cedar. The palate has excellent depth and structure with plush, ripe dark fruits and a balanced acid line driving the mid-palate long and finishing with savoury spice and dried herbs in unison with the elegant, fine-grained tannins.
"95 Points. 57/30/7/6% shiraz/cabernet sauvignon/merlot/cabernet franc. Matured 18 months in (13% new) 71/29% French/American oak hogsheads. I love the transparency of the Barossa's cooler seasons, in such articulate detail here that all 4 varieties are clearly visible in all their glory. Unashamedly medium bodied, refreshing and enticing, yet in no way underpowered, simplistic or short lived. Crunchy berry fruits, fine-ground tannins and vibrant acidity unite to marvellous effect and outstanding line and length. It takes some skill, dexterity and humility in the winery to allow fruit of such elegance to really sing. A classic Barossa blend with a long future before it. 14.5% alc. Drink by 2037. Screwcap"- Tyson Stelzer, winecompanion.com.au.
"94 Points. Not just a blend of shiraz and cabernet sauvignon, Henschke’s Keyneton now also has a judicious addition of cabernet franc and merlot which has lifted it to the higher echelon of their annual red wine releases. It did not used to be a personal favourite but that is ancient history. This vintage is a generous and open knit Barossan now with 4 years under its belt showing leafy cassis, mulberry, cedar and black olive aromas providing a delicious start. It is then dry and full-bodied yet retains a reserved elegance that would not be out of place in Bordeaux. Layers of savoury dark fruits are lifted by baked earth and ground spices which are underpinned by well managed tannins. Excellent length and balance suggest this wine will deliver for at least ten years, if not more. Drink: 2021 - 2033"- Angus Hughson, winepilot.com.au.
