Description
2008 was an excellent vintage for Henschke and in particular Hill of Grace. Made from very old vines planted about 170 years ago Henschke Hill of Grace is one of Australia’s most collected wines.
The 2008 vintage was considered a somewhat easy season to practise organic viticulture, due to conditions (heat and lack of water) it was also a season that demanded biodynamics to keep the vines healthy.
The 2008 vintage began with average rainfall and a frost free spring allowing for good flowering. Summer was dry and hot resulting in smaller berry and bunch size. Temperatures reached 40C early January 2008 and again in mid February. Between these two periods, temperatures were relatively cool which resulted in amazing fruit colour, flavour and maturity. Early March saw temperatures rise again, 15 days in a row of 35C temperatures causing stress to the vines, leaf drop, escalating sugar levels in the fruit and significant shrivel. When temperatures finally cooled it was too late for hanging fruit. Fruit that was picked in premium condition possess amazing intensely, brilliant colours and flavours.
The 2008 Henschke Hill of Grace was matured in new French (84%) and American (16%) hogsheads for 21 months prior to blending and bottling.
The 2008 Henshcke Hill of Grace is an intense deep crimson in colour. The nose possess sweet blackberry, blueberry, Satsuma plum and rhubarb, with characteristic nuances of oriental spices, black tea leaves, anise, tar and cedar. The palate is rich and concentrated with spicy plum, crushed herbs and Dutch liquorice flavours. An amazing balance of acid, fruit intensity, weight and length create a powerful palate that finishes with long, fine tannins.
