TN: Henschke 1994 Cyril Henschke Cabernet Merlot Franc

[David Lole]

A very healthy, bright medium ruby leaning to some browning in the edges. Reeks of asparagus and cassis (almost ribena) when first poured. Luckily, this dissipates with five minutes airing leaving a complex amalgam of sweet blackcurrant and mulberry fruit, green olives, leafy greens, forest floor and savoury/cedary/mocha oak - far more befitting this wine's illustrious stature. The medium-bodied palate scintilates the tastebuds - creamy old vine texture, riddled with integrated savoury oak and leafy, blackcurrant fruit, excellent acid, the finest tannin structure imaginable and an extremely long, flavoursome finish. If not for the initial overt dimethyl on the nose, this would rate as Outstanding. 14.0% A/V 77% Cabernet, 12% Merlot and 11% Cab Franc.