Product Description
Hentley Farm The Beast Shiraz 2022 is a wine that commands attention, living up to its powerful name. Sourced from a single, select block at the highest point of the estate, the conditions here are ideal for producing a wine of extraordinary concentration. The shallow soils and extensive sun exposure yield small, concentrated berries, which contribute to the wine’s intensity. The Beast presents a bold expression of Barossa Valley Shiraz, where richness and power are balanced with elegance and complexity. Structured with soft, grippy tannins, this wine offers an abundance of dark fruit, layers of spice, and a well-integrated oak profile. A truly full-bodied wine, The Beast is a remarkable example of Barossa’s ability to produce wines with both intensity and refinement. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for years to come, this wine promises to deliver a rewarding experience at every stage of its journey.
The 2022 vintage was shaped by unique weather conditions, with mild summer temperatures and cool nights fostering consistent ripening. This allowed for slow and steady flavour development, preserving natural acidity and ensuring the wine’s overall balance. A long, slow fermentation process with open pump-overs helped extract maximum colour and flavour from the grapes, ensuring that the final wine is rich in character. The careful maturation process in French oak further enhanced the complexity, with 60% of the barrels being new to provide a nuanced oak influence without overpowering the natural fruit expression. The result is a wine that showcases the best of Barossa Shiraz, with a robust, structured body and a lingering finish that leaves a lasting impression.
Maker
Hentley Farm is one of the Barossa Valley's most respected and innovative wineries, known for its focus on producing exceptional wines that reflect the region’s unique terroir. Established by Keith and Ruth Hentschke, the winery continues to thrive under the guidance of winemaker Andrew Quin, who brings his extensive expertise and passion for the Barossa Valley to every bottle. The estate itself is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail, from vineyard management to the winemaking process. Every step of the journey, from hand-picking to careful maturation, is done with the goal of creating wines that are truly reflective of the Barossa Valley’s exceptional soil and climate.
Hentley Farm’s commitment to quality is evident in their approach to sustainable practices and their hands-off winemaking philosophy. They focus on allowing the vineyards to express themselves naturally, using minimal intervention techniques to ensure the purity of the fruit shines through in each wine. The team’s dedication to quality extends to their use of traditional winemaking methods, including basket pressing and maturation in French oak barrels, which result in wines that are both refined and expressive. With each release, Hentley Farm continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the Barossa, producing wines that are as complex as they are memorable.
Philosophy
At Hentley Farm, the philosophy is rooted in a deep respect for the land, with a strong focus on sustainable practices that prioritise the health of the vineyards and the preservation of the environment. The winery’s approach is based on the belief that great wine begins in the vineyard. By carefully managing the vineyard ecosystem, from the soil to the vine, the team at Hentley Farm ensures that every bottle reflects the true character of the Barossa Valley. Their focus on minimal intervention winemaking allows the fruit to express itself fully, without the need for excessive manipulation. The result is wines that are pure, complex, and true to their origin.
The winery also embraces a commitment to innovation, using both traditional and modern techniques to craft wines of exceptional quality. They employ sustainable farming practices, including cover cropping, soil health management, and water conservation, all of which help maintain the long-term viability of their estate. This holistic approach allows Hentley Farm to produce wines that are not only of the highest quality but also reflect their responsibility to the land and the environment. Whether it’s through their use of carefully selected oak or their focus on expressing the individuality of each vineyard block, Hentley Farm’s philosophy is evident in every bottle they produce.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Blackberry, Cedar & Spice
The aroma of Hentley Farm The Beast Shiraz 2022 opens with rich notes of blackberry and black currant, enveloped by hints of cedar, vanilla, and subtle spices. This complex bouquet is complemented by the savoury influence of toasted oak and a touch of smoky, earthy depth, adding layers of intrigue to the nose.
Palate
Rich, Grippy & Well-Structured
On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with intense dark fruit flavours, including blackberry and black raspberry. The wine is framed by firm tannins and a structure that gives the wine weight and backbone, balanced by a seamless integration of oak. Subtle notes of cedar, vanilla, and spices add complexity, while the fruit maintains its clarity and vibrancy, ensuring a balanced and harmonious mouthfeel.
Finish
Long & Lingering
The finish is long, with the tannins giving a firm, chalky texture that coats the mouth, leaving behind lingering flavours of dark fruit, spice, and a touch of vanilla. The balance between the fruit, tannins, and oak is perfectly executed, ensuring that the wine finishes smoothly with a persistent, satisfying aftertaste.
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Shiraz
Country - Australia
Region - Barossa Valley, South Australia
Vintage - 2022
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 15%
