One of Torbreck’s newest offerings is the 2002 The Struie, a 100% Shiraz cuvee from the cooler climate, high altitude vineyards of Eden Valley blended with fruit from Barossa, which provides more power and intensity. This structured effort reveals a French-tasting profile, but with the noteworthy ripeness found in a great Barossa vintage. A blend of 40-year-old Eden Valley Shiraz vines and 80-year-old Barossa Shiraz, the 2002 was aged 18 months in a combination of French oak (80% old and 20% new). Its dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by a big, rich perfume of white chocolate intermixed with loamy soil, black cherry, blackberry, pepper, and currant aromas. Intense and medium to full-bodied yet elegant, it should drink well for 10-15 years. Importer: Deborah Gray, The Australian Wine Connection, Carlsbad, CA; tel. (760) 438-5714

Ripe, round and decadent, plush in texture, oozing with tarry, chocolaty plum and black cherry flavors that linger beautifully. Picks up all kinds of spicy notes as the finish goes on and on. Should only get deeper with age. Drink now through 2020. 2,500 cases made, 1,000 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / Barossa / Barossa Valley Select to Add