Always a blend of fruit from the Barossa and Eden Valleys, Torbreck's 2019 The Struie is almost entirely Barossa Valley, with only 8% coming from the Eden Valley. Aged in 20% new French oak for 20 months, it's very dark in the glass, with aromas of pencil shavings, blueberries and baking spices. Full-bodied and even more intense than the impressive 2018, it remains supple and smooth from start to finish, where hints of licorice and warmth emphasize the wine's ripeness.

92% Barossa Valley Western Ranges, 8% a single vineyard in the Eden Valley. Average age of vines 50 years. Picked 2 March to 3 April. Aged for 20 months in French oak (20% new). The youngest of these new releases from Torbreck from a particularly dry growing season. Blackish crimson. High-toned nose – really quite aromatic with notes of cough linctus. Well-managed tannins – quite a feat in 2019 presumably – with just a little bit of heat on the end. This could be one of Torbreck's better current bargains. (JR)