Hentley Farm Wines, located in the picturesque Barossa Valley of South Australia, has a story deeply rooted in passion, vision, and a profound respect for the land. The origins of Hentley Farm trace back to 1997 when Keith and Alison Hentschke, the founders, discovered the property's potential. With a rich agricultural background and a vision to create exceptional single-estate wines, Keith and Alison embarked on a journey that would eventually place Hentley Farm among the elite wineries of Australia.
The property, originally established in the 1840s, offered an ideal terroir with its varied topography, soil diversity, and old vines. Recognizing these advantages, the Hentschkes meticulously restored the estate, focusing on sustainable viticulture and minimal intervention winemaking to preserve the unique character of their wines.
The Vineyards
The vineyards of Hentley Farm are a tapestry of microclimates and soil types, allowing for the cultivation of a variety of grape varietals with distinct characteristics. The estate spans over 150 acres, with approximately 80 acres under vine. The diverse topography includes gentle slopes, flatlands, and rolling hills, each contributing to the complexity of the wines produced.
Key varietals grown include Shiraz, Grenache, Zinfandel, and Cabernet Sauvignon, among others. The Shiraz, in particular, has gained a reputation for its depth, intensity, and elegance, benefiting from the region's Mediterranean climate with warm days and cool nights. This climate ensures a long growing season, allowing grapes to develop rich flavors and balanced acidity.
Sustainability is at the core of Hentley Farm's vineyard management. The use of cover crops, organic composts, and minimal chemical interventions not only enhances soil health but also promotes biodiversity within the vineyard ecosystem. This holistic approach ensures the vines remain resilient and produce high-quality fruit year after year.
Winemaker: Andrew Quin
The Winemaker
The winemaking philosophy at Hentley Farm is driven by the principle of "minimal intervention, maximum expression." Leading this philosophy is Andrew Quin, the chief winemaker since 2008. Quin's approach combines traditional winemaking techniques with innovative practices, always with the goal of showcasing the unique terroir of each vineyard block.
Quin's journey into winemaking began with a degree in Viticulture and Oenology from the University of Adelaide. His early experiences in the Barossa Valley, coupled with international stints in Italy and the United States, have shaped his understanding and appreciation of different winemaking styles. At Hentley Farm, he meticulously crafts each wine to reflect the vineyard's characteristics, focusing on small-batch fermentation and the careful use of oak to enhance, rather than overpower, the fruit.
The Wines
Hentley Farm Wines offers a diverse portfolio, ranging from bold reds to elegant whites and sophisticated blends. Each wine embodies the essence of its origin, crafted with precision and passion.
The Beauty Shiraz
One of the flagship wines, The Beauty Shiraz, is named for its elegance and finesse. The Beauty is sourced from cooler sites within the vineyard, resulting in a wine that is aromatic and vibrant, with notes of red berries, spice, and a hint of floral undertones. Its silky tannins and balanced acidity make it approachable yet complex.
The Beast Shiraz
In contrast to The Beauty, The Beast Shiraz is powerful and robust. Sourced from warmer vineyard blocks, The Beast showcases intense dark fruit flavors, such as blackberry and plum, complemented by earthy undertones and a hint of pepper. Its structure and depth make it a wine that can age gracefully over many years.
The Old Legend Grenache
The Old Legend Grenache pays homage to the old bush vines that contribute to its complexity and richness. This wine is characterized by its bright red fruit flavors, complemented by subtle spice and earthy notes. The tannins are fine and well-integrated, providing a smooth, lingering finish.
Clos Otto Shiraz
Clos Otto Shiraz is the epitome of Hentley Farm's winemaking prowess. Sourced from a single block with exceptionally low yields, this wine is intensely concentrated with layers of dark fruit, chocolate, and spice. Its velvety texture and remarkable length have earned it a place among the finest Shiraz wines in the world.
Awards and Accolades
Hentley Farm's commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed in the wine world. Over the years, the winery has garnered numerous awards and accolades, solidifying its reputation as a producer of world-class wines.
In 2015, Hentley Farm was named "Winery of the Year" by James Halliday's Wine Companion, one of Australia's most prestigious wine guides. This accolade was a testament to the consistency and quality of the wines produced by Hentley Farm, particularly highlighting the outstanding performances of The Beauty and The Beast Shiraz.
The Clos Otto Shiraz has consistently received high scores from international wine critics. Notably, the 2010 vintage was awarded 98 points by Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, praised for its concentration, complexity, and elegance. Subsequent vintages have continued to receive acclaim, cementing Clos Otto's status as a benchmark for Australian Shiraz.
Hentley Farm's wines have also performed exceptionally well in various wine competitions. The Old Legend Grenache, for instance, has won multiple gold medals at the Barossa Wine Show and the International Wine Challenge, celebrated for its vibrant fruit profile and refined structure.
Beyond individual wine awards, Hentley Farm has been recognized for its innovative and sustainable practices in viticulture and winemaking. The winery's commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement has earned it accolades and certifications, including membership in Sustainable Winegrowing Australia.
The Hentley Farm Experience
A visit to Hentley Farm is more than just a wine tasting; it is an immersive experience that captures the essence of the Barossa Valley. The Cellar Door, housed in a restored 1840s stone barn, offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where guests can explore the full range of Hentley Farm wines. Personalized tasting experiences, led by knowledgeable staff, provide insights into the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of each wine.
Hentley Farm is also home to a renowned restaurant, where culinary excellence meets wine artistry. The restaurant offers seasonal menus that showcase locally sourced ingredients, expertly paired with Hentley Farm wines. The dining experience is a celebration of the region's rich culinary heritage, enhanced by the stunning views of the vineyards.