2019 Henry's Seven SGV

Screwcapped full bottle 1,295 g. 74% Shiraz, 16% Grenache, 8% Mataro (Mourvèdre) with the Shiraz co-fermented with 2% Barossa Valley Viognier. 2019 was a drought year with an early harvest (these grapes were picked 12 March to 4 April) and yields were down about 30% because of poor set as well as the drought. Fruit from relatively young vineyards that are about 12–13 years old. Matured in 6% new and 94% seasoned French hogsheads for 10 months prior to blending and bottling. The wine gets its name from local nurseryman Henry Evans who planted the first (seven-acre) vineyard in Keyneton. In the mid 19th century he enjoyed a fine reputation and exported wine to the UK. He died in 1868 and his teetotal widow converted the vineyards to orchards but there used to be seven wineries around Keyneton, perhaps another reason for the name. Mid crimson with a pale rim. Heady, ripe nose with savoury balsam notes at the edges and a little grittiness of texture on the end. Quite marked acidity and very much a Shiraz rather than a Syrah. But not too excessively and obviously alcoholic or sweet. (JR)