Torbreck The Descendant Shiraz 2016 (750ML)

97 Points, Joe Czerwinski, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "A blend of 94% Shiraz and 6% Viognier aged in second fill barriques (all French oak), the 2016 Descendant features lovely floral aromas, accented by blueberries and a hint of apricot. On the palate, it's full-bodied, rich and creamy in texture, hugely mouthfilling yet somehow without excessive weight or heat, while the plush, velvety finish adds a hint of dark chocolate. It's a terrific success at a still-reasonable price for the quality." 02/19

97 Points, James Suckling, jamessuckling.com: " A wine that really sits at the heart of the Torbreck DNA with plenty of blackberries and plums. Graphite and dark chocolate, too. There’s a beautifully exotic peppery and spicy edge here. The co-fermented viognier really is exceptional. The length and build on the palate is phenomenal and the weight of tannin is convincing, all thick and velvety. A blend of 94% shiraz and 6% viognier. Drink or hold." 06/19

95 Points, Kim Marcus, Wine Spectator: "Distinctive and effusive, brimming with violet, white pepper, chai tea and peppermint oil notes, set on a dense frame, with thick tannins. Details of dark chocolate–covered coffee bean, cigar box and minerality gain momentum on the long, expressive finish. Shiraz and Viognier. Drink now through 2034." 11/19

98 Points, Matthew Jukes, Decanter: "Viognier (6%) is co-fermented with Shiraz from RunRig cuttings planted in 1994. Like a great Côte-Rôtie, it starts with a thrilling nose and doesn’t let up until a week after you’ve put down the glass." 08/19