2011 Massena Barossa Valley Barbera

Australian versions of Barbera prefer the cooler climes of Victoria's King Valley and Mudgee in New South Wales where its richness and complexity can excel. It has newcomer status in the warmer Barossa Valley where presumably the grape's ability to retain high natural acids as it ripens, augurs well for its development there. 

This is an impressive example from Massena, a winery with an interesting range of alternative varietal wines and one named in Robert Parker's top 20 value plays in Australia. 

Crimson red with a purple tinged colour. A funky apricot and red cherry nose with some anise and pepper action too. Mid-weight fruit flavours of savoury cherry and sour plum on the palate. Brambly, savoury and smooth. Finely balanced acid and grippy tannins give the wine a lovely length and focus. Edgy and distinctive. One to watch.

Source: Retail Purchase. Alcohol: 13.5%. Closure: Screwcap. Price: $22.00. Rating: 90 Points. Website: http://massena.com.au/about/