After emigrating from Devon in England, Thomas Hardy planted his first vines at McLaren Vale in 1853. Today, five generations of the Hardy family have preserved his legacy. After several corporate mergers Accolade Wines now own Hardys.

As well as McLaren Vale, Hardys has vineyards across most of southern Australia. Like Penfolds, Hardys produces its wines from multi-region blends. Purchased by Thomas Hardy in 1876 the Tintara winery remains central to Hardys winemaking. While large scale commercial production drives sales, under chief winemaker Paul Lapsley, Accolade has at the same time revived smaller ferments and taken a more hands on approach to deliver top tier wines.

Eileen Hardy Chardonnay and Shiraz sit alongside Thomas Hardy Cabernet Sauvignon at the top of the brand. The HRB (Heritage Reserve Bin) range follows. Their rare fortifieds are an ode to a 100 year old fortified history.