Hentley Farm The Beauty Shiraz 2005

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BN#201790

Hentley Farm

The 2005 vintage was a cracker with ideal ripening conditions. This wine is a blend of blocks which exhibited vibrant back fruit and lifted Blackberry aromas , as well as rich chocolate and licorice. 4% Viognier was added to give a further boost to the floral aromatics and increase the level of elegance. The level of Viognier was set to as be almost undetectable. Its soft on the surface but a brut underneath with amazing balance.

Wine Enthusiast

Despite the name—this does exhibit gorgeous complexity and perfume—don’t be fooled into thinking this shy or delicate. At 15% alcohol, it fills the mouth with layers of chocolate sauce and ripe berries, with hints of vanilla, cinnamon, stone fruit and violets. Finishes with silky tannins and lingering notes of fresh fruit and dried spices. Drink now–2020.

Score: 94. —Joe Czerwinski, November 01, 2007.

Wine Advocate

The 2005 Shiraz “Beauty” contains 4% Viognier. It was aged in French oak, 40% new. It delivers an alluring perfume of pain grille, violets, spice box, and blueberries. Full-bodied, it has plenty of sweet, ripe fruit, moderate tannin, and 2-3 years of aging potential. It will provide pleasure through 2022.

Score: 91. —Jay Miller, December 2007.