From: Barossa Valley, Australia
Varietal: Shiraz
Tasting Notes: This wine is crimson with subtle red plum undertones. Upon the first smell, the nose is a complex bouquet of dark plum and ripe blackberries, interwoven with the rich, dark essence of cassis and cherries. This fruity ensemble is accented with a hint of spice and star anise. On the palate, the wine reveals a medium to full body that masterfully balances intensity and elegance. The soft tannins contribute to a smooth and textural mouthfeel.
“Lifted red, black and blue fruits of red cherry, raspberry coulis, blueberry conserve and wild blackberry and blackcurrant. There is a spicy edge showing cardamom, star anise and Chinese five spice.” -Official Producer Website
Pairing: The quintessential pairing for a Barossa Valley Shiraz would be red meats; think of a grilled ribeye steak or slow-roasted lamb shank. The intense flavors of the meat, coupled with the char from grilling or the depth of a slow roast, with Shiraz's bold dark fruit notes and spice complement each other.
Barbecue dishes, especially those with a smoky or slightly sweet glaze, are another excellent choice, as the smoke and sweetness accentuate the Shiraz's natural spice and fruit-forward profile. Similarly, spicy cuisines like Indian or Mexican, featuring sauces like a complex mole, can complement the wine's boldness.
For those looking to explore beyond red meats, a Barossa Shiraz also complements hard cheeses, such as aged cheddar or gouda, where the sharpness of the cheese balances the wine's robustness. Additionally, dishes with rich, umami-driven sauces, like a mushroom stroganoff, can stand up to the wine's body and tannins, offering a delightful pairing for vegetarians.
Mushroom Stroganoff
By Hetty Lui McKinnon
About. David Powell, the founder of Torbreck Vintners, is a significant figure in the Australian wine industry, particularly renowned for his contributions to the Barossa Valley's reputation as a premier wine-producing region.
David Powell founded Torbreck in 1994, drawing inspiration from his experience in the vineyards of the Barossa Valley and his admiration for the wines of the Rhône Valley in France. The name "Torbreck" is a nod to his Scottish heritage. It is named after a forest in Scotland where he worked as a lumberjack before fully dedicating himself to the wine industry.
Powell's approach to winemaking emphasizes the importance of old vineyards, some of which date back to the 19th century. He was instrumental in recognizing the value of these old vines and their potential to produce wines of exceptional depth, character, and complexity. Under his guidance, Torbreck focused on cultivating Rhône varietals such as Shiraz, Grenache, and Mourvèdre, which thrive in the Barossa Valley's terroir.
The winery's flagship wine, The RunRig, showcases Powell's vision and winemaking philosophy. It exemplifies the power of Australian Shiraz and the finesse of Northern Rhône winemaking techniques, earning international acclaim for its quality and complexity.
At the heart of Torbreck's philosophy lies a deep respect for the land and its history. The winery's name itself pays homage to a forest in Scotland, reflecting the founder's roots and the connection between the old world and the new. This reverence is evident in the meticulous care taken in the vineyards, where traditional viticultural practices are combined with modern techniques to cultivate grapes of the highest quality.
Torbreck's portfolio showcases the rich diversity of the region's terroir, focusing on Rhône varietals such as Shiraz, Grenache, and Viognier. The winery's flagship wine, The RunRig, epitomizes this dedication to quality, displaying an impressive depth of flavor and complexity that has garnered international acclaim. Alongside The RunRig, Torbreck produces a range of other wines, each with its own unique character and story, from the robust and spicy The Steading to the elegant and fragrant The Viognier.
Sustainability and environmental stewardship are central to Torbreck's operations. The winery employs sustainable farming practices, including minimal vineyard intervention and a biodiversity commitment. This approach ensures the health and vitality of the vineyard ecosystem and enhances the quality and authenticity of the wines produced.
According to the official website: “The 2021 summer growing season was mild, with even and cool daily temperatures throughout. Enhanced by good rains provided during the winter and spring of 2020, our vineyards grew wonderful canopies and developed well-formed grape bunches. As a result of this long flavor development cycle in the vineyard, 2021’s signature is wines of high aromatic lift with densely colored tints and exceptional balance.”