2017 Massena The Moonlight Run Mataro Grenache Shiraz

Established in 2000 Massena is owned by Dan Standish and Jaysen Collins who until 2006 were employed full time at other Barossa wineries (Dan as winemaker at Torbreck and Jaysen as general manager at Turkey Flat.) All Massena wines are from 100% Barossa valley fruit from dry-farmed, low yielding vines up to 155 years age located in the north-western Barossa. The Moonlight Run takes its name from Dan and Jaysen’s midnight drive back to the Barossa after working vintage in the Clare Valley. Inspired by the wines of Chateauneuf du Pape it is aged in both tank and barrel.
A blend of 73% Mataro, 14% Grenache and 13% Shiraz. Opaque black dark red core with a dark red hue. Pronounced aromas of dark plum, dark raspberry and liquorice intermix with scorched earth, subtle infusions of incense and spicy fresh herb notes. Rich, plump and juicy the palate is awash with spicy dark plum, liquorice and dark raspberry fruit which is underscored by notions of earth, dried herbs and pepper. Soft, slippery texture with velvety yet sturdy tannins and good balanced acidity. Outstanding power and depth with a long sumptuous aftertaste full of spice and ripe dark fruit.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14%

Other Reviews….
73% mataro, 14% grenache, 13% shiraz, the mataro with some whole bunches in the ferment, the ancient vine Barossa and Eden Valley grenache wild-fermented in open pots, basket-pressed, matured for 12 months in used oak. Stacked full of luscious red and purple fruits, yet not heavy. A particularly good mataro, sometimes a prickly customer, but not here. Drink by 2037.
95 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion