2013 Torbreck The Loon Shiraz Roussanne

A blend of 92% Shiraz and 8% Roussanne, ‘The Loon’ takes its name from a Scottish term that refers to a young lad which is an appropriate name for this youthful, boisterous blend. Sourced from the Marananga district of the Barossa the Shiraz was co-fermented with the skins of the Roussanne with the resultant wine matured in 4.5kL oak vats (foudre) for a period of 18 months. Production was down significantly for the 2013 vintage with only 350 dozen being made.

A distinctive blend that is exotic, beautifully scented and intensely flavoured.

Outstanding colour saturation delivering an impenetrable inky black core with a very deep dark purple black hue. Pronounced liqueur soaked black cherry, liquorice and dark plum aromas ooze from the glass overlaid by some toasty honeysuckle like characters with subtle vanillin oak end notes. Rich and opulent in the mouth the palate features luscious black cherry, liquorice and dark plum flavours overlaid by some honeysuckle with a spicy vanillin oak finish. The tannins come across as quite velvety in nature but are actually quite solid and robust. Long aftertaste of ripe black cherries, liquorice, dark plum and spicy honeysuckle.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 15%

Other Reviews....
A Rhone-inspired blend of shiraz and roussanne, but no indication whether co-fermented. There is plenty of energy and drive to the mix of black fruits and licorice flavours; no issues with the alcohol. Drink by 2028.
95 points
James Halliday - Australian Wine Companion