Henschke Sass The Tailor 2024

A wine tailored to the past and working towards the future, Sass takes six white grape varieties from two wine regions and matures them in a mix of maturation vessels, including the odd amphora. It’s a wild, field blend of sorts that works so well particularly as it pursues depth of flavour with a wonderful concentrated fruit presence. Texturally, too, it shines. Pinot Gris and Chardonnay take the lead roles with the mostly aromatic bunch of grape varieties coming from the Adelaide Hills and the Eden Valley. While the delicate scent is all about the aromatics, spice and citrus, the palate brings more weight and a touch more of a Chardonnay feel with nectarine, white peach and melon infiltrating citrus, quince and Asian pear notes. A gentle, integrated texture flows easily across the palate with a hint of almond meal bringing a warm creaminess. Beautifully balanced, it finishes with a touch of clean phenolic grip. The use of the cocciopesto amphorae, a traditional vessel used by the early Romans and made of ground bricks, stone and sand, is an interesting addition to the winemaking.