2009 Torbreck Descendant

This vineyard was planted with cuttings from one of the old Run Rig vineyards. The Shiraz is crushed on top of the Viognier from the same vineyard, which has been lightly pressed for blending with the Run Rig. The blend of fruit (92% Shiraz & 8% Viognier) is then co-fermented and matured for 18 months in 2 ½ year old French barrels that had been previously used for RunRig.
Opaque black dark purple colour with deep dark purple red hue. The nose offers up alluring scents of ripe dark plum, blackberry and liquorice with an intriguing exotic twist of apricot and spice. Rich opulent flavours of ripe dark plum and liquorice adorn the palate followed by some beautifully integrated toasty oak, a faint hint of dried apricot and a spicy back palate. Velvet smooth tannins combine with a soft plush mouthfeel. Long aftertaste of ripe dark plum, liquorice, blackberry, subtle dried apricot and spice.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc 14.5%

Other reviews….
Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2009 Descendent has 8% co-fermented Viognier in the blend which lends lovely floral, peach blossom and violet aromas to complement an intense blueberry preserves, dark chocolate and star anise aromatic core. Very full and rich, it has a lovely acid vibrancy alongside medium to firm, very fine tannins and a long finish. Drink it from 2015 to 2025+.
97+ points
Lisa Perrotti-Brown – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate