The dictionary definition of ‘Riposte’ (pronounced rip-posst) is comeback, reply, retort, or in the context of the sport of fencing a quick counter stroke. After over a decade of confusion about his name ‘Riposte’ was chosen as an appropriate name for a ‘comeback label’ by Tim Knappstein.

The grapes for this wine are from the vineyard of Carmine and Marina Pepicelli, near Lobethal in the Adelaide Hills. 

Generous yet sinuous, the 2023 Riposte ‘The Cutlass’ Shiraz shows perfumed pepper spice complimenting rich dark plum and blue fruits. A long, complex palate resolves in a lingering finish of fine grained tannin and spicy oak tones.

A definite cool climate, colder season stamp, with a wonderful, bright-eyed character, aromatics of summer berry pudding, crushed grape flesh, and dark mint. An exuberance as well: perhaps whole cluster and whole berry components. A tasting sensation that lifts upwards rather than buries the fruit under timber, earth and heavy spice. A swirl of crimson and black cherry and berry with gossamer tannins. A joyous wine to taste then drink again. Drink to: 2030; Price: $30.00; Rating: 96 Points; Tony Love

Strictly speaking, this could easily be labelled Syrah such is the wine's medium-bodied, cool climate, high spice factor. It speaks of its Adelaide Hills roots and the region's lively, spice-laden aromas: full-on black pepper, acacia, briar, sage, liquorice, black plum, blueberry and black cherry. Inviting, invigorating and fresh, they carry seamlessly through to the palate. Bright, detailed acidity leads the way working in unison with fine, firm tannins laying the groundwork for dark fruits, peppery spice, dusty cacao, meaty oak spice and background bramble and leaf herbals. One terrific cool climate Shiraz. Drink to: 2030; Price: $30.00; Rating: 93 Points; Jeni Port