The youngest Run Rig, the 2001, should equal the 1998 as it is almost a clone aromatically, texturally, and flavor-wise, just much younger. This opaque purple-colored beauty should flirt with perfection over the next 10-15 years. Torbreck’s flagship wine, the Run Rig, is made from 40- to 120-year-old Shiraz vines with some co-fermented Viognier (usually around 3%), tips the scales between 14-15% alcohol, and is aged 30 months in French oak. In contrast to the way they taste upon release, neither the 1998 or 1997 Run Rig revealed any oak.

Amazingly supple, round and pure, smoothly polished to the point where the tannins almost disappear, but something is supporting the gorgeous blueberry, plum, mineral and subtle spice flavors to let them soar on and on through the extraordinarily long, fleshy finish. Best from 2008 through 2020. 1,000 cases made, 350 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / Barossa / Barossa Valley Select to Add

There are plenty of reasons the winery gives to account for this wine’s hefty price: 125+-year-old vines; 70% new French oak; yields of a half-ton per acre; fruit costs about $7,400 (U.S.) per ton, and is all handpicked. Torbreck’s investment pays off—the mixed-plum fruit is beautiful and rich, enveloped in smooth, chalky tannins. Mouthfeel is round and creamy; spicy black pepper aromas are subtle. 800 cases produced. ——D.T.(2/1/2004)—— 92