2017 Torbreck Descendant Shiraz Viognier

A blend of 93% Shiraz and 7% Viognier matured for 20 months in second fill French oak barriques previously used for Run Rig. Impenetrable inky black heart with a very deep black dark red hue. Heady dark plum, liquorice and black cherry scents roll out of the glass trailed by blueberry, smoky vanillin cedar, a faint whiff of dried apricot, earth and pepper. Rich voluptuously textured flavours of spicy dark plum, black cherry and liquorice are layered across the palate like liquid silk. Subtle dried apricot, lightly toasted vanillin oak and pepper ensue. Velvet smooth tannins have a muscular underbelly providing a great framework. Powerful and polished with a long lavish aftertaste.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 15%

Other Reviews….
Consistently one of my favorites in the Torbreck lineup, this year's version, the 2017 Descendant, was co-fermented with 8% Viognier and spent 18 months in barrel. It's full-bodied, rich and decadent, delivering what Torbreck lovers expect in its dark-fruited layers of opulence. Suffused with hints of Mexican chocolate, it finishes long and softly dusty. Drink 2020-2035.
96 points
Joe Czerwinski – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate