In 1865 Thomas Hardy had the foresight to begin blending grapes from different regions, believing that the blending would enhance the different qualities of the grapes. His vision proved to be right and it has since become the inspiration for the Heritage Reserve Bin (HRB) range.

Deep crimson. Classic cassis, blackberry, black olive tapenade, leafy aromas with vanilla, cedar notes. Well balanced powerful wine with saturated blackcurrant, dark plum, praline, brambly flavours, fine grainy/ al-dente tannins, and underlying cedar oak complexity. Finishes leafy firm with plentiful dark fruits and extract. Superb fruit definition, volume and torque. Cellar for a while. Drink to: 2024 - 2040; Rating: 98 Points; Andrew Caillard MW

It seems this vintage of Thomas Hardy is straight Coonawarra (often it's a multi-regional blend). Excellent dark purple hue. It's deep, rich and complex. More savoury accents among the hint of cassis and currants. Concentrated, with a density across the full-bodied palate, yet the oak is seamlessly integrated, the tannins ripe and plush. A rather polished wine, built for aging. Drink to: 2044; Price: $160.00; Date Tasted: March 2021; Alcohol: 14.3%; Rating: 96 Points; Jane Faulkner; James Halliday Wine Companion