Great to see a bit of activity in the Henty region of South-West Victoria. Rory Lane from ‘The Story Wines’ is making quality Shiraz, Pinot and Riesling from the area, Provenance Wines have tapped into it for Pinot Gris and Seppelt are still making some lovely Riesling from the Drumborg Vineyard as well – not to mention Crawford River. I expect that Seppelt gear to improve under the stewardship of Adam Wadewitz, formerly of Best’s Great Western. Henty Farm is actually a collaboration between Wadewitz and wine marketer Jonathan Mogg. Small runs, attention to detail, native yeasts, no added acid, older French oak and a great deal of respect for Henty’s potential.
This is killer juice. It shows conviction, clean slate-like precision and clarity. A beautifully filigreed and distinctive line of minerally acidity draws the wine together. Regional lime over nectarine and white peach with a little ruby grapefruit, woodspice and a subtle sprinkling of bitter herbs. Superb flow and balance. Some savoury, bready lees work fills out the picture and the extension cannot be faulted. You little ripper! 94 Excellent
Region: Henty
Alcohol: 13.0%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $35
Tasted: September 2012
Not sure we’re going to see much better than the ’09 Drumborg – regardless of maker. A wine for the ages and probably the most impressive Riesling I’ve ever seen at or near release. Let’s see what happens with the other grapes down there.
MichaelC