The 1999 Steading, a southern Rhone blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Shiraz, and 20% Mourvedre. Two thousand cases were produced of this Chateauneuf du Pape look-alike from Australia's Barossa Valley. It is a terrific, deep purple-colored effort offering a sweet nose of pepper, black fruits, earth, tobacco, and cassis. Sweet on the attack (from ripe fruit, not sugar), this full-bodied, concentrated, powerful wine (14.5% alcohol) builds in the mouth to a creamy textured, blockbuster finish. While hard to resist, it will drink well for 7-8 years. This wine not only makes for compelling drinking, but it is also a huge amount of fun, and isn't that what it's all about? If I had to give an award to Australia's finest winemaker in 2001, it would be hard not to consider David Powell. Importer: Dan Philips, The Grateful Palate, Oxnard, CA; tel. (888) 472-5283

Crisp, almost bracing, with firm tannins and bright acidity supporting ripe berry and cherry flavors, which remain open and round on the finish, picking up hints of chocolate and pepper. Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2006. 2,000 cases made, 1,000 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / Barossa / Barossa Valley Select to Add