A block for use in constructing a multiple course retaining wall comprises a top surface, a bottom surface spaced apart from the top surface, opposing side surfaces, a front surface and a back surface. The bottom surface may include a pair of contacting portions that contact a top surface of a lower course of blocks when the block is placed on a lower course of blocks and a gap defining portion located between the contacting portions. The front surface may have generally planar upper and lower edges when viewed in front elevation and has a width extending between the side surfaces that is greater than the width extending between the side surfaces of back surface. At least one of the contacting portions may intersect front surface.