Lot 12
Pick of the Litter

1 – 6 Liter 2005 Two Hands “Ares” Shiraz Barossa Valley
1 – 6 Liter 2005 Two Hands “Aphrodite” Cabernet Barossa Valley
1 – 6 Liter 2005 Two Hands “Aerope” Grenache Barossa Valley

A flagship is the ship used by the commanding officer of a group of naval ships. The term originates from the custom of the officer to fly the distinguishing flag of the fleet. In the hands of Two Hands, the term denotes limited production wines from its finest barrels – their pick of the litter.

The “two hands” at Two Hands are Michael Twelftree and Richard Mintz, who formed their winery with the clear objective of making the best possible wines from prized regions within Australia – quality without compromise. Ares is the very best Shiraz made at Two Hands Wines, and since Shiraz is what Two Hands does best, it is a majestic wine. Made from superb fruit of the 20 finest barrels of Two Hands’ Bella Garden cuvee, the spectacular Ares is full bodied, super-rich and a fabulously pure Australian Shiraz. It is viscous, almost impenetrable in color, a wine of incredible concentration balanced by acid and tannins working in perfect harmony.

The best Cabernet Sauvignon made by Two Hands, Aphrodite is a seriously sensual wine. Deep dark crimson, with distinctive Cabernet tones, it is a wine of aromatic intensity. Universally lauded by both Wine Spectator and Robert Parker, Jr., this deep rich and plush wine is a reminder of just how brilliant Barossa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon can be.

Aerope, the third wine in Two Hands’ flagship line-up, was selected from a few exceptional barrels of Grenache that come from an 80-year old dry farmed vineyard in Greenock. The 2005 Aerope is deep inky purple in color, its bouquet layered with cinnamon, figs and dark chocolate. Deep and plush with formidable weight, this full-throttle Grenache hits you with an intense wave of dark cherry and an unforgettable finish.

In the 2005 vintage, only a handful of Imperials of these wines were produced, and are presented today in polished timber boxes. Raise your paddle with two hands for these incomparable wines.

DONOR: Two Hands Wines