Dear *|FNAME|*,

From one of the most iconic Shiraz producers in Stellenbosch, Hartenberg's single-site bottling of The Stork has developed a passionate following since its 2003 launch with its trademark plush fruit and smooth tannins.

Arriving at Hartenberg in 1993, Carl Schultz quickly realised the special nature of the 'koffieklip' and the deep, clay-rich 'terra rossa' soils on the Hartenberg estate. The latter produces the late-ripening The Stork. The 2017 is particularly fine, with added freshness to complement Carl's polished, long-ageing and powerful style.

Limited quantities available. Available on a first-come, first-served bases.

Some of the tasting notes on the 2017 The Stork Shiraz speak to its longevity and potential. 'Lots of minerality and the structure to age in bottle,' writes Tim Atkin MW and, besides the polished and deep fruit, '2017's savoury, clove & white pepper will add complexity for many years,' notes the 2022 Platter's Guide.

Primarily, the 2017 offers a more savoury dimension, with some freshness to its usual sweet-fruited expression. It is vibrant – cutting an immaculate balance between brooding fruit, lifted and enticing perfume and a taut, long and linear finish. It is set to age well for the next decade and beyond. From an epic vintage, this wonderful release is not to be missed!

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Vinous regards,

Tasting notes

Hartenberg, The Stork 2017

'This shows depth and power. The stewed black fruits and blueberry crumble flavours show brilliantly with nothing stopping it from delivering pleasure. Sublime and evolving.' – Decanter World Wine Awards, 96/100 (Gold)

'The Stork comes from deep, red clay soils and always has a slightly ferrous, dried blood character to it. Perfumed and concentrated, with blackberry, plum and tangerine fruit, lots of minerality and the structure to age in bottle. Drink 2024-32.' – Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2021, 94/100

'Shiraz off deep, clay-rich loam soil, reflected in plush mulberry & plum fruit which absorbs 20 months in 90% new oak & coats firm tannin structure. 2017's savoury, clove & white pepper will add complexity for many years.' – Platter's Guide, 4.5* (93/100)

'The 2017 The Stork has a concentrated nose of blackberry, iodine and wild heather scents, revealing more red fruit with aeration while retaining admirable delineation. The smooth palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, fine acidity and a hint of melted tar toward the finish. Quite bold, but a well-crafted Stellenbosch wine. Drink 2022-2034.' – Neal Martin, Vinous, 91/100

'Beginning with a dark purple core, the 2017 The Stork is bold and juicy on the nose with elements of blackberry reduction, dusty plum, black raspberries skin, subtle spice tones of black pepper, dried herbs and cinnamon with vanilla nuances. Medium to full-bodied, the wine is balanced, showing a lively structure with integrated and silky tannins across the mid-palate. The wine concludes with a delightfully long conclusion that is juicy and begs me back for a second sip. Bravo! 3,600 bottles were filled after spending 19 months in 70% first fill French oak barrels. Drink 2021-2030.' – Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate, 91/100

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