The 2015 Alpha Box & Dice Hercules Shiraz is considered a true 'icon' wine from McLaren Vale, Australia, with an annual production of only 2100 bottles. The vintage experienced a heatwave just before the Shiraz grapes from the Loulakis Vineyard in Blewitt Springs reached optimum ripeness, resulting in low yields of fully ripe berries with exceptional quality, complex flavors, and enormous depth. This full-bodied and intense South Australian Shiraz is matured for 48 months in French oak (50% new wood) and then bottle-aged for another 6 months before release, resulting in an extremely smooth and expressive wine. It boasts a 'God's blood' color, with a nose of dark fruit, liquorice, chocolate, sultanas, and spices like cinnamon and aniseed. The palate is full-bodied and immense, with a high proportion of initial sweetness, velvety tannins interwoven with appealing acidity, leading to an endless finish. Alpha Box & Dice describes Hercules as "a gift from the heavens for those who seek rich tannins and dense fruit." 【Annual production of only 2100 bottles, making it a rare 'icon' wine】. It is a must for lovers of strong, powerful wines and can cellar for up to 50+ years. It pairs wonderfully with thick, juicy steak or braised beef cheeks, or simply with a fat cigar. 🥂 This Hercules Shiraz is perfect for a special occasion that calls for a powerful and memorable red, such as a celebratory dinner, a gathering of serious wine collectors, or as a statement gift. Its robust character also makes it an excellent companion for a cozy evening by the fireplace.