1998 Torbreck Run Rig Shiraz Viognier

Shiraz from old dry grown vineyards is blended with Viognier, complementing the strengths and complexities of these individual parcels of fruit, whilst giving the resulting wine a further dimension.

Additional notes sourced from eRobertParker.comsize>

"David Powell's most expensive red wine is undoubtedly the 1998 Run Rig. However, it is not out of line with what wines of similar quality sell for throughout the world, unfortunately a reality. There are nearly 600 cases of the 1998 Run Rig, which is made from vines averaging between 50 and 130 years of age. It is a blend of 97% Shiraz and 3% Viognier, aged completely in French oak for approximately 18 months prior to bottling.

The 1998 may well be the most concentrated Run Rig to date. The color is an opaque purple, and the bouquet offers an exotic concoction of tropical fruit, blackberry liqueur, creme de cassis, smoke, and honeysuckle notes. Once past the exhilarating fragrance, the wine is sumptuous and full-bodied, with a skyscraper-like profile of fabulous concentration and length that builds in the mouth.

The black fruits galore scenario unfolds to reveal beautifully integrated wood, acidity, tannin, and alcohol (a mere 14.5%). The balance is virtually perfect, and the finish lasts for nearly a minute. This luxurious, compelling gem displays a level of complexity and delineation that is rare in a wine of such size. Anticipated maturity: now-2016. Drink 2001-2016"
Rating: 99 points

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