Franschhoek Cellar Baker Station Shiraz

With a deep, purple colour, red berries and hints of charcoal with faint liquorice on the nose are set against gentle floral notes in the background, making way for blueberries, cassis, and nuances of sweet, dried herbs. The palate displays layers of berry fruit with spices of pepper, cinnamon and clove. A soft entry on the palate is supported with supple tannins, impressive length and bright, acidity. Serve at 12-15 Deg. Pair with mushrooms and pasta and full-flavored dishes like glazed ham, roast lamb.

Delicate notes of black-current fruit intermingle with floral hints of violets and a sprinkling of white pepper. The tannins are soft and supple, adding a slightly earthy texture to the wine.

St Henri is a time-honoured and alternative expression of shiraz, and an intriguing counterpoint to Grange. It is unusual amongst high quality Australian red wines as it does not rely on any new oak. Released for the first time by Penfolds in the early 1950s (first commercial vintage 1957), it gained a new lease of life in the 1990s as its quality and distinctive style became better understood. Proudly, a wine style that hasn’t succumbed to the dictates of fashion or commerce. St Henri is rich and plush when young, gaining soft, earthy, mocha-like characters with age. It is matured in an assortment of old large vats that allow the wine to develop, imparting minimal, if any oak character. Although a small proportion of cabernet may sneak into the blend, the focal point for St Henri remains shiraz.

Opulent dark forest fruit with aromatic notes of spice, white pepper and dark chocolate. The palate is textured and layered, showing elegance and refined structure. Fresh, juicy and balanced acidity, subtle oak with hints of clove and mulberry lingers on the finish.