2019 St Henri Shiraz Penfolds

Parker - Erin Larkin 96+, The St Henri Shiraz is often one of my favorite reds in the Penfolds Collection, due to the ability of the fruit to shine through the fine sheath of oak that encases it. At this stage, and I know you will hear this often, the wine still represents good value. The 2019 St Henri Shiraz is elegantly structured, with the 2019 vintage showing the warmth and intensity without overstepping balance or line. Texturally, this will only increase in its silky shape, which comes with the gentle suggestion to decant this if you insist on drinking it within five years from harvest (ie, anytime from now to 2024). This 2019 is shaped by abundant red and purple fruit (and a splash of blue), charry spice and fine tannins. Gorgeous.

Suckling 97, Immediately spicy and complex, this has a rich blackberry and dark-plum nose, along with dark-chocolate and tarry, earthy elements. The palate has a very rich, fleshy feel with such ripe dark-plum, dark-chocolate, blackberry and mulberry flavors on offer. Generous, yet balanced. A South Australian blend of McLaren Vale, Barossa Valley, Padthaway, Wrattonbully and The Peninsulas. Drink or hold. Screw cap.

Falstaff 97, dark ruby ​​garnet, violet reflections, subtle ochre rim. Fine dark berries, a hint of eucalyptus and bergamot, sweet black berries, nougat, very attractive bouquet, candied mandarin zest. Juicy, complex, finely spicy, good freshness, powerful, with fine, ripe tannins, lemony-delicate aspects on the finish, already drinkable, a great food accompaniment with staying power. (now - 2050)