It has been 145 years since Hardys founder, and pioneer of the Australian wine industry, Thomas Hardy blended his first dual regional wine, taking fruit from the Adelaide Hills and blending it with fruit from the Southern Districts.
His belief that blending can better retain or strengthen the best characteristics and qualities of each variety resulted in some of the most unique and outstanding wines made in Australia in the period 1940’s to 1970’s and was the first step in establishing Hardys’ reputation for blending craftsmanship.
These wines continue the numbering initiated by Thomas Hardy in 1865 with A001, only ever used once, and are:
- HRB|D639 Clare Valley / Tasmanian Riesling 2008. With vibrant and spicy fruit flavours, this is the ideal accompaniment to oysters and prawns.
- HRB|D638 Margaret River / Adelaide Hills / Pemberton Chardonnay 2007. A dry, full-bodied chardonnay that combines the rich stone fruit flavour of Margaret River in WA, the structure of the Adelaide Hills and the creaminess of the Pemberton region, this wine is perfect with roast chicken or barbecued lobster.
- HRB|D636 Adelaide Hills / Clare Valley Shiraz 2006. A full to medium bodied wine, which fine wine lovers will enjoy for its rich and spicy oak notes and hint of mulberries, pepper and mint. Enjoy it with lamb.
- HRB|D637 Coonawarra / Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon 2006. Dry and full-bodied, this wine is a match for braised lamb shanks or a rich beef ragu.
Hardys Winemaker Paul Lapsley said the new releases continue the ongoing commitment of Hardys to winemaking innovation and regional exploration.
“Starting with Thomas Hardy himself, Hardys’ talented winemakers have recognised that blending the best of a variety from standout regions allows you to create a better wine – the whole being greater than the sum of all parts,” he said.
“The four HRB wines represent blends which, we believe, have never before been attempted. Each year we’ll continue to challenge opinions on terroir and the art of blending with new wines offering new regional profiles.”
“These wines have real depth and complexity, and feature an integrated layering of flavour,” Paul added.
The recommended retail price for the Riesling and Chardonnay is $32.99, and $39.99 for the Shiraz and Cabernet.