1999 Torbreck Shiraz Run Rig
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Tasting notes
The 1999 RunRig concludes the 1990s decade for this wine (1995–1999 inclusive), and what a decade it was in the world of wine and particularly in this case Australian wine. Torbreck broke through global markets on the praise of this very publication, and it brought positive attention to the Barossa and, by extension, Australia. Here, the 1999 RunRig exemplifies the quiet strength of the 1999 vintage, especially when tasted side by side with the great 1998. Today, the 1998 is singing, and one can't compete with a wine when that happens; however, this 1999 is no slouch. It has notes of blood plum and star anise, sumac, paprika dolce and sumac. The finish is fine—soft, even. This translates to elegance and subtlety. 14% alcohol, sealed under natural cork.
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Chosen to show the developments in Barossa, eg single vineyards. Dave Powell made wine at Rockford, which, like Brokenwood, was like a wine school to many winemakers. Shiraz and 3% Viognier. 80- to 125-year-old dry-grown vineyards located on the western ridge of the Barossa. Batch vinification in open concrete fermenters. US oak for the pressings. Rest matured in 40% new French oak. Broke the stereotypes of Barossa in their aromatic profile. Very deeply coloured. Some menthol, maybe even lavender. Perfumed and floral. Rich and spicy and full and very rich in the mouth. Scented but sill has chocolate-like tannins. Dry, dark firm, dense and powerful but not overbearing. Elegant in a big style. Moreish but may be too big for some foods? (JH)
There are 800 cases of the 1999 Run Rig, an unfined/unfiltered beauty of remarkable concentration and intensity. This Shiraz cuvee spends 30 months in 100% new French oak, and approximately 3% Viognier is added to the blend just prior to bottling (in contrast to The Descendent, in which 8% Viognier is co-fermented with the Shiraz). The Run Rig is a structured, muscular effort with phenomenal density, dry vintage Port-like concentration, and magnificent notes of smoke, blackberries, cassis, leather, and coffee. A hint of Viognier's sweet marmalade character comes through as the wine sits in the glass. This majestic Shiraz, one of the greatest wines made in the New World, should be cellared for 5-6 years, and drunk over the following 2-3 decades. Robert Parker, Oct 2002
Deep garnet colored, the 1999 RunRig presents an incredible nose with complex and layered aromas of smoked bacon, dried mulberries, kirsch and leather intermingling with sandalwood, anise and potpourri nuances. Medium to full-bodied, this is a very elegant wine with vibrant acid and concentrated fruit, structured with medium levels of grainy tannins through the long and layered finish. It is just beautiful. Drink it now to 2024+. Wine Advocate.February, 2013