Henschke Keyneton Euphonium Red Blend 2018

Made by Johann Henschke, the Henschke Keyneton Euphonium Red Blend 2018 stands out as a refined and robust red wine from the renowned Henschke Winery. This blend is meticulously crafted from 65% Shiraz, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Merlot, harvested between March 9 and April 20, 2018, from the Eden and Barossa Valleys.

The 2018 ‘Euphonium’ shows a deep crimson color with vibrant ruby hues. On the nose, it offers lifted aromas of ripe blackberry, blackcurrant, and cassis complemented by Satsuma plum, blueberry, and subtle floral notes of anise and violets. Hints of black pepper and cedar add complexity to the rich bouquet.

As you taste, the wine unfolds rich and concentrated flavors of dark plum, blackberry, and blackcurrant. The mid-palate is pure, plush, and focused, showcasing a bright, balanced acidity that enhances the wine’s freshness. The finish is lengthy and supported by fine-grained, ripe tannins that promise excellent aging potential. This wine has been matured for 18 months in a mix of new and seasoned oak hogsheads, which imparts a subtle woody character without overpowering the fruit.

The Henschke Keyneton Euphonium Red Blend 2018 has received notable praise from wine critics. Wine Spectator awarded it 91 points, highlighting its toasted herbs, tobacco, and peppery spices that lend a savory dimension to the plush and elegant frame of cassis and blackberry. Wine Enthusiast gave it a high 95 points, describing it as powerfully aromatic with Chinese Five Spice, beetroot, and green peppercorn mingling with berry fruits. The palate is marked by tangy acidity and a satiny quality, complemented by fine, dusty tannins.

Wine Advocate also praised this vintage with 92 points for its profusion of dusty black tannin and brooding purple fruit, suggesting decanting to fully appreciate its layered, savory notes. Additionally, James Suckling scored it 95 points for its spicy and creamy profile, underlined by velvety tannins and a silky core of dark fruit and spices.

The 2018 vintage in the Eden and Barossa Valleys was marked by moderately wet winter and average spring conditions, leading to healthy vine growth. The weather during the late spring and early summer was ideal for flowering, setting the stage for a near-average yield. The warm, dry conditions of the summer months, followed by a light and warm March and April, ensured that all grape varieties reached full and balanced maturity. This vintage is celebrated as one of the standout years of the decade, particularly significant as it coincides with the 150th anniversary of family winemaking at Henschke.

This wine pairs beautifully with robust and flavorful dishes such as roasted Cowra lamb rack, complemented by eggplant, olives, and preserved lemon, which echo the savory and fruity elements of the wine.

Serve this wine at around 17°C to best appreciate its nuances. The 2018 Keyneton Euphonium has excellent cellaring potential and can be enjoyed over the next 25+ years, allowing the flavors to evolve and mature.

In summary, the Henschke Keyneton Euphonium Red Blend 2018 is a beautifully composed wine that showcases the skill of winemaker Johann Henschke and the rich terroir of South Australia’s renowned wine regions. Its complex flavors and balanced structure make it a standout choice for both immediate enjoyment and long-term aging.