2023 Torbreck The Descendant Shiraz Viognier, Barossa Valley

The Descendant sits just below RunRig in the Torbreck hierarchy, but in many vintages it delivers equal gravitas. Torbreck was founded in the 1990s by David Powell with a vision inspired by the great wines of the Rhône, built around ancient Barossa vineyards and traditional techniques. Today the estate is led by Chief Winemaker Ian Hongell, who continues the philosophy of old vine sourcing, careful maturation and site transparency. The Descendant draws primarily from very old vine Shiraz, often blended with a small but crucial portion of Viognier, echoing Côte Rôtie tradition while remaining unmistakably Barossa.

Fruit is hand harvested from low yielding, dry grown vines rooted in ancient soils. Fermentation is managed to build depth and fine tannin, with the Viognier co fermented to lift aromatics and texture. Maturation takes place in high quality French oak, adding structure and polish without masking the vineyard’s power. The result is a wine that marries density with perfume and structure.

Deep crimson in colour, the aromas open with blackberry, plum and dark cherry layered with violet, graphite and subtle spice. The palate is full bodied yet composed, with concentrated dark fruit wrapped in firm, polished tannins and balanced acidity. Notes of black fruit, savoury earth and fine oak carry into a long, powerful finish.

It pairs beautifully with slow roasted lamb, beef short ribs and richly flavoured dishes. While impressive in its youth with decanting, it will cellar confidently for twenty years or more, gaining complexity and tertiary depth.