Wine Advisor
Two Hands, Ares Shiraz 2002
View analysis
Description
Tasting notes
Reviewed by: Robert M. Parker, Jr.
Virtually perfect, the 2002 Shiraz Ares (100% Shiraz from an ancient Barossa vineyard) spent 8 months in old oak, and 12 months in new French wood. Inky/blue/black to the rim, with an extraordinary nose of smoked meats, camphor, blackberries, creme de cassis, and a notion of bacon fat in the background, this is great stuff. Full-bodied with a sensational texture as well as stunning purity, balance, and length (the finish lasts nearly a minute), Michael Twelftree believes it has at least 20 years of cellaring potential, and I see no reason to disagree. Like many of the finest wines of South Australia, it is accessible now. Importer: Vine Street Imports, Philadelphia, PA; tel. (215) 533-9463
About the Producer
Two Hands was established in the summer of 1999 with the aim of making the best possible Shiraz-based wines from prized Shiraz growing regions throughout Australia. The intention was, and still is, to showcase the diversity of Australian Shiraz by highlighting regional characteristics and allowing the fruit to be the primary feature of the wines. Two Hands refers to the very personable approach taken with each parcel of grapes, no matter how big or small. The wines are carefully guided through the viticulture and winemaking process by proprietor, Michael Twelftree and winemaker, Ben Perkins.
