At a glance

Producer

Henschke

Region

Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia

Grape variety

Shiraz (57%), Cabernet Sauvignon (30%), Cabernet Franc (6%), Merlot (7%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$130-$160

Tasting profile

Ripe dark fruit (blackberry, plum), spice, leather, and subtle oak influence with earthy undertones.

Evolution: Tannins will soften further; complex tertiary notes of tobacco, forest floor, and savory elements will emerge.

At peak: A complex, elegant wine combining rich fruit depth with sophisticated tertiary aromas and smooth palate integration.

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high, providing freshness and balance

Tannins

Firm and well-integrated, offering strong support for long-term aging

Alcohol

Approximately 14.5% ABV

Aging potential

20-25+ years from vintage, with capability to evolve gracefully

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2048

Optimal window

2022 to 2051

Current status

Approaching early maturity

Current condition

The wine is developing tertiary complexities with softened tannins, still retaining vibrant fruit and structure.

The Keyneton Euphonium is a flagship Barossa blend with robust tannins and balanced acidity, typical of Henschke’s style, which supports extended aging. The 2016 vintage is highly regarded, offering ripe yet structured fruit, allowing the wine to develop complex tertiary notes over decades.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with rich grilled meats, game, aged cheeses, and dishes featuring earthy spices or mushrooms.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To soften firm tannins and allow aromatic expression to open up

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Henschke employs responsible water management, energy-efficient winery operations, minimal intervention viticulture, and selective hand-harvesting to reduce environmental impact.

Henschke is committed to sustainable farming and production with certification under SAW. The vineyard practices encourage biodiversity, soil health, and water conservation. Packaging is moderately optimized to reduce waste. While international distribution contributes to carbon emissions, the overall winery operations emphasize sustainability.