Penfolds St. Henri 2000

Apr 17, 2005 4 Replies
A

Hello there, I recently made my way through a bottle of the Penfolds St. Henri 2000 Shiraz. A mighty fine wine indeed. Real old-fashioned production with none of the powerful vanilla and chocolate you might expect with big Aussie shiraz. Plenty of fruit and floral character on the nose with a touch of steeliness and some ink too. Forward to mid palate with an incredible finish - everything in the wine was derived from the fruit. I immediately went out the next day and bought another. Unfortunately, the gentleman who ran the wine store from where I bought it couldn't recommend anything else in the same style. So, I'm rather hoping someone on the group can instead.



The wine was $50 NZD (about $35 USD) - bought in Auckland, NZ.



If you can recommend a similar wine in the same price range (and cheaper would be even better) - I would be really grateful.



Many thanks,



Aaron


Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
I

Yes, isn't it? I don't know of another Aussie that has the same fruit-driven absence of oak as St. Henri, but I imagine Bordeaux must produce something similar. My knowledge of French wines does not permit me to advise, but I'm sure others will respond with suggestions. For a real treat, see if you can get hold of some 1998 St. Henri.

Regards,

Ian

Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
A

Indeed - it doesn't have to be Aussie - French is fine also.

I'll see if I can locate some 98.

Many thanks

Aaron

Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
M

Yes, the '98 is fine stuff. For vaguely similar wines, look to the northern end of the Rhone valley in France, where lightly oaked Syrah is the name of the game. Since price is an issue, look for the lesser-known appelations of Crozes-Hermitage, St. Joseph and Cornas. My choices for Crozes are Alain Graillot and Albert Belle and in Cornas Allemand, Clape (pricey), Juge and Verset. The big negociants of Jaboulet, Chapoutier and Delas Freres also do a decent job and usually at a reasonable price.

HTH Mark Lipton

Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
A

Found someone selling both the 2001 and 1999 Belle Crozes Hermitage. I'll let you know.

Many thanks!

Aaron

Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required