The idea of Two Hands Winery came together when Michael Twelftree and Richard Mintz, were attending a friend’s engagement party and discussed making wine and producing the best possible Shiraz from iconic regions in Australia. That was 1999.
A lot of water has gone under the bridge, with more vineyards being acquired stretching from the iconic Barossa to the cooler climate of Yarra Valley in Victoria.
Fast-forward to 2015, and a changing of the guards when Colorado native Tim Hower joined forces with Michael, becoming the other ‘Hand’ in 2015. This led to the acquisition of several new vineyards, including the Holy Grail site on Seppeltsfield Road in Barossa. Locals know this as The Avenue of Hopes and Dreams and it is lined with 100-year-old date palm trees- I remember being impressed by the majestic splendor of this road running through the middle of this iconic wine region when I first saw it in 1986.
This wine is named after the ferocious and twisted-looking old vines from which this wine is made.
The first thing you notice is the amazing color of this wine. Then the sensation of the aromas impresses you with layers of ripe blackberries, black currants, subtle black pepper, and baking spices adding an urgency to taste this, Shiraz.
The palate is big, rich, and seductive with a silky-smooth mouthfeel that has evolved since its birth 9 years ago. Depth and complexity characterize this Barossa gem, framed with matt finish tannins and excellent balance. Intertwined layers of ripe blackberries, plums, blueberries, and black currants leave little room for
for secondary notes of dark cherries, vanilla, dark chocolate, black pepper, and baking spices. There is so much going on with this wine. Great length on the finish.
Fire up the grill, this needs a steak from the grill, gourmet beef burgers, or just about any red meat from the grill.
I would anticipate further surprises evolving from another 3 – 5 years of cellaring.
I can see why James Halliday gave it a 94 Pt rating.
Vine to Table 