2021 Torbreck Descendant

From a single vineyard planted in 1994 using cuttings from Run Rig vineyards, Descendant is a co-fermented blend of 94% Shiraz and 6% Viognier matured for 20 months in second fill French oak barriques previously used for Run Rig.
Dense inky black colour with a dark red black hue. The hedonistic nose sees dark plum, liquorice, black cherry and apricot aromas wafting through the nostrils followed by some smoky vanillin cedar and peppered earth notes. Rich voluptuous dark plum, liquorice and black cherry fruits cast a thick opulent layer across the palate. Exceptionally concentrated and powerful notions of apricot, smoky vanillin cedar, earth and pepper lie underneath. A firm, muscular tannin structure is largely concealed by the sheer depth and volume of fruit. Concludes long, decadent and slightly chewy.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 15%

Other Reviews....
The 2021 Descendant is often termed as the "Baby Runrig," which, as we all know, is a bit of a myopic way to view things, but it gets the point across. This is Shiraz fermented on Viognier skins (8% by weight, no liquid) and decidedly floral on the nose, with marmalade and orange peel, pink peppercorns and blood plums. The wine is dense and velvety, with loads of tannin; the Viognier, while contributing floral aromatics, textural silk and flow, also contributes tannin, and it is felt here. There is no new oak, which helps with the tannin expression and core of red and purple fruit. The signature Barossan red dirt and ironstone show through the finish. It's really good! Excellent wine. Drink 2024-2041.
96 points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate