About This Wine
The 2017 vintage again finds itself based around fruit from the Dadds block Mataro, which has proved to be one of the most intriguing and consistent dry grown vineyards. A handful of whole cluster Cinsault was co-fermented with the Mataro to soften the sharper tannins. Old bush vine Grenache from the Barossa foothills was sourced to add lifted spice and bright fruit and provide multiple blending options. Some tank and barrel ageing was adopted across this blend, with each parcel and barrel selected based on adding as much interest as possible. With a linear Mataro based palate that gives focus, density and minerality supported by maraschino cherry dense Grenache, this is a great mouthful of everything great about a Chateauneuf styled blend. Spicy aromatics abound with black and white pepper, Chinese five spice and native pepper berry jumping out the glass. With so much going on it is best enjoyed on its own, however tuck into this with a Peking Duck and you’ll be extremely satisfied.
| Type | Red Wine |
|---|---|
| Varietal(s) | Mataro Grenache Shiraz/Syrah Cinsault |
| Country | Australia |
| Region | Barossa Valley |
| Brand | Massena |
| Vintage | 2018 |
Barossa Valley Wine
The Barossa Valley wine region has historically and currently still is one of Australia's most prestigious premium wine producing regions. Located just 60km north east of Adelaide city centre, the climate there is very hot and dry which is perfect for the big bold reds the area is famous for.
A straight Shiraz is what Barossa is most well known for, however Rhone blends, such as Shiraz Cabernet are also very popular. While much less prevalent, white wines (Chardonnay, Riesling, Semillon) are planted on the higher altitude hillsides where the ocean breeze cools temperatures down to a level suitable for producing these varieties as well.
Some of Australia's earliest Shiraz plantings can be found here dating as far back as the 1850's. While not always a guarantee of quality, it might be worth seeking out and trying one of the region's "old vine shiraz" if you haven't yet.
The Wine Front – Blend of Barossa Valley mataro, grenache, and shiraz, pretty much in equal parts. The mataro included some stalks in the ferment. The grenache is off extremely old vines, well over 100 years (more like 150). It’s a wild ride of flavour. It’s mid-weight, complex, charming and silken, with game, an array of dried spices, flings of roasted nuts and of course red/black berry flavours. So much to experience. Floral notes add yet more to the show. A beautiful red wine.