2021 Wine Companion

2018 Stonegarden Grenache

Old bushvines planted in 1857 prove they still have the X-factor. One batch of fruit destemmed and popped into a ceramic egg on skins for several months (not specified) then into used puncheons; the second batch, whole-bunch fermented in used puncheons. Happy to report this is a sterling drink. It has poise, incredibly velvety tannins, a suppleness and beautiful fruit, which is the very heart of this wine.

2018 Moonlight Run

Mataro grenache shiraz. Teetering on the edge of being too ripe and yet the rich flavours and voluminous palate somehow suck you right in. Blackberry pastilles, all manner of baking spices with pliant and plump tannins yet there is a freshness throughout.

2018 Eleventh Hour

A paucity of information accompanying the Massena wines but here fruit sourced from vineyards in Greenock, Stone Well and Vine Vale, some whole bunches, some extended skin contact and basket-pressed to used French barriques and puncheons for 18 months. Unfined and unfiltered. It's come together brilliantly. It has richness and a depth of flavour matched to a brightness and vivacity across its fuller-bodied palate. Supple, savoury tannins and just lovely fruit shining through.

2019 Stonegarden Riesling

What makes this stand out is its texture. It has body not just racy acidity. Sure it has heady citrus blossom and ginger spice aromas but the palate cruises along with flavours of lime-curd and lemon tart. Fabulous.