2007 Two Hands Brave Faces Shiraz/Grenache

Wine Advocate
"90 pts ... TThe purple-colored 2007 Shiraz (64%)-Grenache (18%)-Mataro (18%) Brave Faces was aged in seasoned oak. It reveals earth notes, game, black cherry, and blueberry leading to a smooth-textured, forward, succulent wine with good grip and length. Drink it over the next five years." -- 10/09

Stephen Tanzer
"89(+?) pts ... (A 64/18/18 blend) Deep ruby. Ripe cherry and blackberry aromas are complicated by whiffs of mocha and cracked pepper. Fleshy dark berry flavors are brightened by minerals and black pepper, with silky tannins contributing grip. Became firmer with air, finishing with a kiss of black pepper and a sweet berry note. I'd give this some time to flesh out." --07/08

Winemaker's Notes
"The palate starts out with excellent persistence, richness and drive then floats into enticing red fruit and savoury flavours. The finishing dryness perfectly marries the succulent fruit and creates a style change that’s even better with food."

Technical Notes
"The grapes were crushed into and fermented in open top potters, with regular pump overs three times daily to extract colour and tannin. The grapes were then pressed and the wine was transferred to tank and then racked to barrel of oak maturation. Matured 10 months in 7% new French oak hogsheads with the balance in 1, 2 & 3 year old French oak. 15% alc."