Ox Hardy Ancestor Vine Shiraz 2014

The grapes here were sourced from the original 1891 vines from the family vineyard, which were planted by one of Australian wine’s great names, Thomas Hardy, Andrew’s great-great-grandfather. The grapes are from the top 17 rows of vines. They were destemmed into a one tonne open fermenter, hand plunged thrice daily, before spending almost 24 months in old French oak barriques and then time in bottle before release. Only 640 bottles made. Great to see a wine which has been given this length of time ageing in the winery cellars before release to the public. Deep maroon. The nose is endless chocolate, coffee beans, cigar box notes, blackberries, cassis and mocha. There is some vanillin oak evident as well. This is rich, plush and with a cushiony texture, right through to satiny tannins. There is such a long finish with a glorious explosion of chocolate. This has good age already, but will easily provide pleasure for at least another ten to twenty years. Stunning stuff.