A blend of 57% Merlot and 43% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2008 Abbotts Prayer has a deep garnet-purple color and very ripe, warm berry and dried fruit aromas with a core of prunes and raspberry preserves plus hints of cassia and cloves. Medium to full bodied, concentrated and spicy in the mouth, it has refreshing acid and a medium level of chewy tannins, finishing long. Drink it now to 2018. During my visit to Henschke, I was treated to a mini vertical of the Green’s Hill Lenswood Riesling. A single vineyard wine, production is tiny though it can occasionally be seen in export markets and is well worth the hunt. Note that no 2007 Hill of Grace is reviewed here. Due to the tiny production of this vintage (only 8 hogsheads, owing to frost and drought), the release has been delayed and it wasn’t available yet for tasting.Importer: Negociants USA, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-0993

Firm in texture, with a generous layer of orange peel–scented black cherry and tar flavors riding over a smooth track, lingering nicely with a bit of a gamy note. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2012. 37 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / Lenswood Select to Add