2005 Torbreck - The Struie Proprietary Blend - Australia - South Australia - Eden Valley - Red

($50) Bright ruby. Deep, spicy blackberry and cassis aromas, along with a range of incense, floral and mineral accents. Sexy licorice candy and cola notes emerge with air and are repeated on the palate. Sweet dark berry flavors are nicely firmed by youthful tannins and brisk acids, with a late-arriving cinnamon note adding interest. The impressively pure, long finish is suave, silky and fresh.

The 2005 The Struie was sourced from cooler Eden Valley and Barossa Valley hillside vineyards. It is David Powell's attempt to showcase the cooler side of the region. Vine age ranges from 46-110 years old. The wine was aged for 18 months in older French oak before being bottled unfined and unfiltered. It delivers a splendid bouquet of lead pencil, game, blueberry muffin, and blackberry liqueur. This is followed by an elegant Shiraz which is nevertheless full-bodied, dense, and richly flavored. Plush on the palate, it has superior depth and length and the structure to evolve for 6-8 years.

Smooth and round, with a distinct floral cast to the blueberry and plum flavors, finishing with a red pepper note and deft balance. The flavors are focused and juicy. Shiraz.

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