Penfolds St. Henri Shiraz 2004

A blend of 96% Shiraz and 4% Cabernet Sauvignon.

Dense, dark red with a very dark core. The bouquet is intense, dense and spicy--notes of nutmeg, lavender, rosemary and musk with evocative wafts of black and red liquorice arising. Some floral aromas are present, although assorted fruits dominate with glazed cherries, prune (fruitcake mixture) to the fore. Close inspection reveals aged pipe tobacco and roasted lamb juice and quince complexities. The palate is, in a word, exceptional! Everything demanded of a top-notch St. Henri palate is delivered. The ripe, rounded and finely textured tannins, courted by vibrant (zingy) acidity, certainly induce a youthful disposition. Medium-dark cherry fruits are complexed by cold roasted lamb and black pudding flavours - layered and dense.