All varieties from the Riverside vineyard are vinified separately, being fermented in concrete vats and pumped over. Post fermentation half of the Grenache component is matured in stainless steel and the Mataro and Shiraz is matured in 4,500 French oak Foudre for 15 months prior to bottling without fining or filtration.
91pts The Wine Advocate – 2016 vintage
FOR THE 2016 VINTAGE
The Powells’ entry-level red is the 2016 Riverside Grenache Mataro Shiraz, a 70/20/10 blend that spent 15 months in foudres prior to bottling. It’s full-bodied but floral and fine, with a silky texture, cherry fruit and a bit of earthy depth. It should drink well for 3-4 years, possibly more.
90pts Wine Spectator– 2016 vintage
FOR THE 2016 VINTAGE
Shows a floral, fragrant accent of dried lavender to the firm, robust black cherry and blackberry flavors at the core, with velvety tannins and persistence on the finish. Grenache, Mataro and Shiraz. Drink now through 2028. –MW
N/A pts The Washington Post– 2016 vintage
FOR THE 2016 VINTAGE – 3 STARS (EXCEPTIONAL)
The Barossa region in South Australia is known for powerful and spicy wines, mainly shiraz (syrah). This one is a “GSM” blend of grenache, shiraz and mataro (mourvedre). It captures the lush, spicy character of Aussie reds without going over the top. This wine has a lovely balance — it looks over the cliff without jumping. ABV: 14.5 percent.
