David Powell consistently excels with The Steading, an 8,000 case blend of Grenache, Mourvedre, and Shiraz. Aged 22 months in 300 liter hogsheads (foudres), it represents Australia’s version of Chateauneuf du Pape. The 2002 The Steading’s big, spicy, earthy nose reveals notions of cherry liqueur, licorice, pepper, dried Provencal herbs, raspberries, and leather. Ripe, medium to full-bodied, chewy, and heady, it is best drunk during its first 7-8 years of life, although it will last a lot longer. Importer: Deborah Gray, The Australian Wine Connection, Carlsbad, CA; tel. (760) 438-5714

Firm, with an earthy, gamy edge to the well-focused cherry and berry flavors, all lingering on the fine-grained, somewhat leathery finish. Grenache, Mataro (Mourvèdre) and Shiraz. Best from 2006 through 2010. 5,000 cases made, 1,500 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / Barossa / Barossa Valley Select to Add