Product Description
The Henschke Tappa Pass Shiraz 2022 is a remarkable expression of the Barossa's rich history, combining a deep connection to its roots with a modern sensibility that showcases the intensity and complexity of this iconic wine region. Sourced from some of the oldest Shiraz vineyards in the Barossa, this wine embodies the traditions of the Barossa’s German Silesian settlers, with their commitment to craftsmanship and exceptional vineyard practices. The 2022 vintage, with its rich aromatics, precise acidity, and beautifully balanced flavors, delivers a wine that is both captivating now and built for a long life in the cellar.
From low-yielding, 70-year-old Shiraz vines grown in ancient soils—ranging from terra rossa to red-brown earths—the Tappa Pass Shiraz is a true reflection of its terroir. The wine’s profile, matured for 20 months in a mix of new and seasoned French oak, is elegant yet bold, with complexity built on layers of fruit, spice, and earthy nuances.
The 2022 vintage marks an exceptional year, one where the resilience of the Barossa’s growers prevailed through challenging climatic conditions, resulting in wines that speak to both power and finesse.
Maker:
Henschke is one of Australia's most prestigious and historic wineries, with over 153 years and six generations of family ownership. Located in Keyneton, South Australia, within the renowned Eden Valley wine region, Henschke has built a legacy of crafting premium wines, including its iconic single-vineyard wines, Hill of Grace and Mount Edelstone. Since 1862, the Henschke family has cultivated exceptional vineyards in the Eden Valley, Barossa Valley, and Adelaide Hills, with a focus on quality, sustainability, and innovation.
Stephen and Prue Henschke, the fifth-generation winemaker and viticulturist team, have led the winery since 1979, restoring native vegetation and adopting organic and biodynamic vineyard practices. The sixth generation, led by Johann Henschke, continues to honour the traditions of the past while embracing modern winemaking techniques to ensure Henschke remains a leader in fine wine production.
Henschke's commitment to sustainability and excellence has garnered numerous accolades, including the Wine Enthusiast's New World Winery of the Year (2021) and the Halliday Wine Companion's Winery of the Year. The winery has also been recognised with the Robert Parker Wine Advocate Green Emblem, highlighting its dedication to environmentally conscious practices.
Philosophy
Henschke’s philosophy is deeply rooted in the belief that great wines are made in the vineyard. The winery has embraced organic and biodynamic farming practices, ensuring the health of the vines and the land for future generations. By working with nature rather than against it, they produce wines that are not only reflective of the place but also allow the true expression of the fruit to come through. The family’s attention to detail, commitment to quality, and respect for the environment have resulted in a portfolio of wines that have gained worldwide recognition for their excellence.
Tasting Notes
NOSE – Aromatic Complexity
Perfumed aromas of dark berries—blueberry, blackberry, and mulberry—intermingle with hints of white pepper, nutmeg, fresh bay leaf, and wild thyme. Subtle notes of cedar add depth to the bouquet, creating a captivating and intricate nose.
PALATE – Rich and Layered
The palate is dark and brooding, with plush layers of mixed berries, clove, nutmeg, and cinnamon. There is a perfect balance between the fruit’s depth and the wine's vibrant acidity, which brightens the overall profile. Fine, velvety tannins provide a luxurious texture, enhancing the wine's full-bodied structure.
FINISH – Lingering and Refined
A long, harmonious finish reveals a balanced interplay of dark fruit and spice, underscored by an elegant mineral backbone. The wine’s finish is clean yet complex, leaving a lasting impression of freshness and refinement.
Reviews + Accolades:
Fruit-driven aromas of blueberries, blackberries, mulberries, red currants, baking spices, cedar and smoked paprika. The palate is full-bodied with silky tannins, a silky texture and a densely packed mid palate that is seamlessly integrated and refined. There is a wonderfully mineral edge to the firm yet generous finish. Will age nicely. Drink or hold. - James Suckling, 94 Points.
This is the 20th edition of a Henschke Tappa Pass Shiraz. It’s become an important and noteworthy part of the Henschke range. It’s a wine that, over the years, has never lacked flavour, though it’s added finesse to its armoury, as this wine shows. Indeed this release ramps up the complexity too. It tastes of twigs, herbs, ripe plums and redcurrant, with mint, black olive and woodsy spice notes woven throughout. There’s a firmness to this wine, and plenty of fruit, though there’s also more than a passing nod to savouriness. As a result it feels complete. - Campbell Mattinson, 94 Points.
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Shiraz
Country - Australia
Region - Eden Valley, South Australia
Vintage - 2022
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 14.5%
