2023 Torbreck The Struie Shiraz Magnum 1.5L, Barossa Valley

A lovely balance of Eden Valley spices and Barossa power and strength, with aromas of blackberries, graphite, olive tapenade, violets and purple fruit. The palate is full-bodied with a velvety texture, ultra-fine tannins and flavors of mulberries, mint, pomegranates, cured meat and dark chocolate. A silken finish for this excellent release from a cool vintage. Drink or hold.

96 points jamessuckling.com

Shiraz from 76/24% Barossa Valley/Eden Valley. Deep magenta/crimson with aromas of blackberry, black cherry and blood plum underscored with hints of clove, bay leaf, licorice, dried meats, sage, mace, dark chocolate, graphite and violets. Oak, while there, is never a dominant feature in Torbreck wines; it's always about the fruit and the fruit here is black, spicy and has a long pull, with powdered, granitic tannins and plenty of latent power.

94 points Dave Brookes winecompanion.com.au

Dense purple colour; pungent notes of spiced berries, licorice and Christmas cake spice make way for a plush and chewy core. Tannins frame the intense fruits: they're the necessary scaffolding this full-bodied red requires, signing off with chalky persistence. It's a little stoic in its youth, but time in glass allows the fruit to unfurl and relax. This is a fresh and modern take on the Barossa. A second glass is not out of the question. It will win many hearts and age nicely 25 Apr 2025 Drink 2025–2032

92 points Gabrielle Poy therealreview.com

The Struie is one of Torbreck’s most compelling expressions of Barossa Shiraz, bridging the power of the valley floor with the lifted structure of Eden Valley. Torbreck was founded in the 1990s by David Powell, inspired by the great wines of the Rhône and built on sourcing fruit from ancient, dry grown vineyards across the Barossa. Today Chief Winemaker Ian Hongell continues that philosophy, focusing on meticulous vineyard selection, traditional techniques and patient maturation. The Struie takes its name from a Scottish hill near Inverness, reflecting the estate’s Highland inspiration.

The wine is sourced from low yielding old vines, typically combining fruit from warmer Barossa Valley sites that deliver depth and plush fruit with higher elevation Eden Valley parcels that contribute perfume and acidity. This interplay creates a wine that carries both richness and structure. Fermentation is managed to build colour and fine tannin without over extraction, and maturation in high quality French oak adds polish and complexity while preserving the vineyard’s character.

Deep, saturated crimson in colour, the aromas open with blackberry, black cherry and plum layered with liquorice, graphite and subtle mocha. There is a lifted violet note from the cooler Eden Valley component, alongside savoury spice and dark chocolate. The palate is full bodied yet finely structured, with concentrated dark fruit wrapped in firm, velvety tannins and balanced acidity. Layers of cassis, spice and earthy undertones unfold, leading to a long, persistent finish that combines power with elegance.

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 savoury, leathery and earthy complexity.