Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2006 Henry’s Seven is composed of 65% Shiraz, 20% Grenache, 8% Mourvedre, and 7% Viognier aged for 14 months in seasoned oak. Dark ruby-colored, it exhibits an expressive nose of cedar, mineral, black cherry, black raspberry, and blueberry. On the palate this full-bodied effort offers racy flavors, plenty of spice, outstanding depth and grip, and a silky finish. It can be enjoyed over the next six years.
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Wine Enthusiast
Roughly two-thirds Shiraz, the 2006 Henry’s Seven is a lush, full-bodied blend that combines dark, feral notes of cola and cured meats with brighter red-fruit flavors and an herbal tinge. It’s a bit warm on the finish, but that only serves to accentuate its spicy complexity. Drink now–2012.
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Wine Spectator
A solid red, with distinctly peppery character carrying through from the first whiff to the final sip, offering dark berry and black olive flavors. Some won't like the touch of bitterness on the finish, but this feels balanced. Shiraz, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Viognier. Drink now through 2012.
With bold fruit flavors and accents of sweet spice, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre form the base of the classic Rhône Red Blend, while Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise often come in to play. Though they originated from France’s southern Rhône Valley, with some creative interpretation, Rhône blends have also become popular in other countries. Somm Secret—Putting their own local spin on the Rhône Red Blend, those from Priorat often include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. In California, it is not uncommon to see Petite Sirah make an appearance.
The Barossa Zone encompasses the Barossa Valley and Eden Valley. Some of the oldest vines in Australia can be found here.
Barossa Valley of course is the most important and famous wine growing region in all of Australia where 140+ year-old, dry-farmed Shiraz vines still produce inky, purple and dense juice for some of Australia's best wines.
In the cooler, wetter Eden Valley sub-region, the Hill of Grace vineyard is home to famous Shiraz vines from the 1800s but the region produces also some of Australia’s very best and age-worthy Rieslings.