The Ox Hardy Upper Tintara McLaren Vale Shiraz 2018 stands as a powerful tribute to one of Australia’s great wine dynasties. When Thomas Hardy purchased the historic Upper Tintara Vineyard in 1871, he laid the foundations for a legacy that continues to shape Australian winemaking. Today this remarkable property remains in the hands of the Hardy family, its landscape a blend of native protected scrub and 45 hectares of vineyards—including the millennium Shiraz plantings that form the backbone of this wine.

In the glass, it shines a deep ruby red, immediately setting the stage for the richness to come. Aromas of black forest fruits, warm spice and dried herbs rise from the glass with intensity and poise. The palate is generous yet elegant, layered with blackberry and dark plum wrapped in supple tannins that speak clearly of McLaren Vale’s famed Shiraz pedigree. As it opens, notes of black pepper, dark chocolate and a fine drying tannin finish deliver both length and sophistication. The wine has been widely celebrated, with 95 points from Nick Ryan (The Weekend Australian), 94 points from Wine Front, 93 points from Angus Hughson (Wine Pilot) and 91 points from Q Wine Review, reinforcing its status as a standout release from an iconic site.

This is a superb partner for chargrilled ribeye, slow-braised lamb shoulder, rich beef ragù or roasted portobello mushrooms, as the wine’s bold fruit and spice interplay beautifully with hearty, flavour-driven dishes. Aged cheddar or a platter of cured meats also makes a natural match, highlighting its depth and savoury nuances.

A wine of heritage, precision and power, the Ox Hardy Upper Tintara Shiraz 2018 is both a celebration of history and a world-class example of McLaren Vale Shiraz—built for pleasure now and destined to reward careful cellaring.