Below is the first round of a continuing series of audio interviews featuring Two Hands proprietors Michael Twelftree and Richard Mintz. These interviews, recorded at Terlato Wines International in Lake Bluff, Ill., in May 2006, retrace the history of this now-legendary Australia brand, directly from the two men who founded the winery.

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Two Hands Topic Description

• Introduction to Two Hands Wines: Michael and Richard, the “two hands” discuss how they initially became involved in the wine industry and how they built the Two Hands brand to become one of Australia’s most successful boutique wineries. (09-25-06 - 2.5 MB)
   
• Winemaking and Barrel Classification Part 1: Michael and Richard comment on Two Hands’ winemaker, the talented Matt Wenk. They discuss winemaking, lot handling, and the barrel classification system, which ensures quality and consistency of Two Hands’ wines. (09-25-06 - 2.7 MB)  
• Winemaking and Barrel Classification Part 2: We join Michael and Richard again as they discuss how all Two Hands wines are made by a process of barrel selection and classification during two detailed tasting periods. (09-25-06 - 2.9 MB)
   
• Garden Series Part 1: The Two Hands enlighten listeners to the names of the Garden Series – the essence of Two Hands Wines. They discuss their inspiration for the names of the wines and the level of commitment their growers have to the vineyards. Have you ever wondered who Lily and Bella are? Listen and find out! (09-25-06 - 2.1 MB)
   
• Garden Series Part 2: While sharing a bottle of Shiraz, Michael and Richard discuss the significance of the Garden Series label colors and the regional differences in Australian terroir. (09-25-06 - 3.8 MB)
   
• Passion for Shiraz and Australian Terroir: Michael and Richard tell listeners about their strong passion for Shiraz (namely Australian Shiraz) and how they aspire to educate consumers of the world about the regionality of Australian Shiraz. (09-25-06 - 2.5 MB)
   
• Picture Series Part 1: Michael and Richard tell the story behind Gnarly Dudes and Angels Share. (09-25-06 - 1.8 MB)
   
• Picture Series Part 2: Michael and Richard discuss Brave Faces and Yesterday’s Hero. (09-25-06 - 2.6 MB)
   
• Picture Series Part 3: Michael tells the story of the Bad Impersonator, Bull and Bear, the Wolf Riesling and For Love or Money. (09-25-06 - 6.0 MB)
   
• Brilliant Disguise: Another Two Hands Wines variety that has enjoyed enormous success is the Brilliant Disguise Moscato. In this recording, Michael and Richard relay the reasons why they decided to make a Moscato, what makes their Moscato so unique, and why it’s such a brilliant wine. (09-25-06 - 2.4 MB)
   
• Flagship Wines: The flagship wines (Ares, Aphrodite, and Aerope) represent the very finest selection of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Grenache from Two Hands Wines. Here Michael and Richard tell the story behind the names and discuss the reasons why they think it’s important to have fun with wine. (09-25-06 - 2.6 MB)
   
• Being a Negociant and Blending: Michael discusses Two Hands decision to make wine with purchased fruit, and his favorite challenge of blending. (09-25-06 - 2.1 MB)
   
• Packaging: From the beginning, Two Hands set out to be unique. This approach is reflected in everything from the names of the wines, the innovative packaging, and not least, the wines themselves. Listen in as Michael compares wine to diamonds, and other interesting insights on Two Hands packaging. (09-25-06 - 1.9 MB)
   
• Cork vs. Screw Caps: In a discussion about the controversy between cork and screw caps, Michael and Richard explain why they believe Stelvin is the best closure for the Picture Series, and why cork is preferred for the Garden Series and Flagships. (09-25-06 - 1.0 MB)
   
• What do you Drink at Home: Burgundy, Napa Valley, Italy, Alsace, Northern Rhone…and more! (09-25-06 - 1.9 MB)
   
• Vintages Part 1: A look back at the early days of Two Hands, as Michael talks about the 2001 and 2002 vintages. (10-26-06 - 3.2 MB)
   
• Vintages Part 2: Michael recalls 2003, a great year for Two Hands, and 2004 and 2005, two phenomenal vintages from Australia. (10-26-06 - 2.2 MB)
   
• Future of Two Hands: Richard and Michael look to the future of Two Hands Wines. (09-25-06 - 3.2 MB)