Two Hands Winery was born out of a conversation between two mates- Michael Twelftree and Richard Mintz, at an engagement party. They both agreed that they wanted to make the best possible Shiraz (and Shiraz based) wines from prized winning regions in Australia in order to showcase the diversity of the Shiraz grape to the world. McLaren Vale and Barossa were naturally their initial choices but soon spread their interest to six diverse regions showcased with the Garden Series. Harriet’s Garden from Adelaide Hills, Max’s Garden from Heathcote, Samantha’s Garden from Clare Valley and Charlie’s Garden from Eden Valley were added to Lily’s Garden from McLaren Vale and Bella’s Garden from Barossa. All are impressive examples of Shiraz from 6 very different growing regions despite most being close geographically.
Two Hands also release The Picture Series, The Single Vineyard Series and The Flagship Series and a side project Twelftree Wines from Michael Twelftree. A lot has happened over the past 22 years since their inaugural vintage in 2000. Expansion, recognition and success but one thing hasn’t changed, Michael’s passion for making Shiraz and his personal involvement in every step of the way with every individual vineyard site. Once you taste these wines your sure to agree just how impressive they are and how Michael has exceeded his initial goals beyond everyone’s expectation.
I was fortunate to be able to taste four of their new releases with some tasting notes below.
Angels’ Share Shiraz 2019- McLaren Vale
Not as polished as the 2017 but definitely a step up from the 2018.
Loads of dark fruits and herbs are revealed on the nose that carry over to the palate with raspberries, herbs and mint dominating. Has the traditional restraint and balance of McLaren Vale and is enjoyable drinking to the last sip. Nice length on the finish. Drinking well now but will improve over the next 5 years. Pair with any lighter red meat dishes, turkey or chicken fare.
Gnarly Dudes Shiraz 2020- Barossa
One glance at the label will let you know the name is in dedication to the aging vines that exist in Barossa. Blackberries and mint dominate the nose with some red fruits thrown in for good measure. The palate is a blend of blackberries, raspberries, chocolate, spices and just a hint of red fruits on the finish. This has all the power and body one would expect from Barossa without the weighty body with just a touch of sweetness on the finish making it a delight to drink. Will pair well with big red meat dishes, pasta or pizza. A sharp cheddar and a neutral cracker will do wonders for this wine. Will cellar till 2030 without a problem.
93 pt- The Wine Front.
Lily’s Garden Shiraz 2017- McLaren Vale.
By way of comparison The Lily’s Garden Shiraz is more restrained and elegant than its Barossa counterpart. They sometimes, mistakenly, seem initially less impressive but it is that quite seductive aspect coupled with ample servings of restraint and finesse that is the exact reason you should never pass up a quality McLaren Vale Shiraz and this is a fine example. The nose showcases blue berries, plum and floral notes enticing you to take a sip. The palate is silky smooth that quietly convinces you without rising its voice. Layers of rich blue and black fruits coat your palate with secondary notes of plum, spices and vanilla framed in fine tannins and great balance thrown in to round things out. I would pair this with lighter red meat dishes, game, pasta or pizza. Cellar to 2030 without a concern. An hour or two’s decanting will be rewarded.
93pt- Ned Goodwin, MW.
Bella’s Garden Shiraz 2017- Barossa
This is a blend of their finest barrels sourced from some of the finest vineyards in Barossa including Ebenezer, Gomersal, Greenock, Kalimna and Marananga to mention a few. This is a big bold Shiraz and exactly what you should expect from an excellent winemaker sourcing grapes from exceptional vineyard sites and a great vintage.
Nose is inviting with wonderful layers of dark fruits and spices to draw you in. The palate is luxurious and elegant and showcases seamless layers of blackberries, dark raspberries, black cherries with notes of blueberry, plum, spices and a wonderful earthy aspect to it. The sheer generosity of the flavor profile on the palate makes this a must try wine and is an absolute delight to drink. Pair with big red meat dishes. Cellar out to 2030 without a concern. An hour or two’s decanting will be rewarded.
95pt- Ned Goodwin, MW.
McGuigan Hand Made Shiraz Langhorne Creek 2015
We managed to secure some limited stocks of the 2015 vintage and if you lack patience when it comes to cellaring this has seven years under its belt and is drinking beautifully now. Nose is enticing with layers of dark fruits, black currents and subtle spices. The palate is friendly and approachable with a certain elegance and charm and a richness that seems to be a consistent feature of Langhorne Creek Shiraz. Wonderful layers of black current, blackberries, plums with secondary notes of vanilla, cherries and fruit cake all work together for your drinking pleasure. Really enjoy drinking this wine. This is more of a drink short term wine- over the next 3 – 5 years. Pair with your favorite red meat dish from the grill or hearty Italian red meat or game dishes.
Vine to Table 