1997 Henschke Hill of Grace Shiraz

Founded in the mid-19th century by German immigrant farmers, Henschke is one of the oldest wineries in South Australia. Johann Christian Henschke produced his first commercial wine vintage in 1868 and today the fifth generation of the family runs the winery. Stephen Henschke and his wife Prue are credited with keeping quality high and at the same time making innovations to the winery and its winemaking. With vineyards located in both the Eden Valley and Adelaide Hills regions of South Australia, the family-run winery is regarded as one of the best in the country. Hill of Grace is the signature Shiraz from Henschke, and it is one of Australia’s most admired wines. However Henschke also makes Riesling, Semillon, Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot and other wines.

South Australia is the nation’s most important wine region. South Australia is to Australia what California is to the U.S. About half of Australia’s wine comes from South Australia and many of the country’s most acclaimed producers are there. Wineries based in South Australia include Penfolds Grange, Torbreck, Amon Ra, Henschke and Jacob’s Creek. The prestigious Barossa Valley is located in South Australia, and is often compared to Napa Valley because it is gorgeous topography covered in grape vines. First farmed by 19th century German-speakers who immigrated from what is now Poland, the Barossa Valley is the crown jewel of the region. South Australia has widely varying climates, from very hot, dry areas to cooler, high altitude areas. There are more than 150,000 acres of vineyards in South Australia, with more being planted each month. Shiraz is king, though the region also produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Mourvedre, Chardonnay and Semillon.

This grape is grown in milder climates and produces a medium-to full-bodied wine. It is also known as Shiraz, but should not be confused with Petit Sirah, which was developed by crossing Syrah with Peloursin.