Torbreck 2015 The Factor Shiraz (Barossa Valley)

From elevated, low yielding old vines in stony soil, The Factor is often one of Torbreck's broodiest wines in its youth, but this vintage, with a touch of bottle age, shows how quickly it morphs into a thing of expressive beauty. A complex nose starts with roast veg, olive tapenade and sanguine, mineral notes, but with time in the glass it reveals more plum, cherry fruit and mocha. Tannins are ultrafine and powdery, the earthy-mineral-sanguine character flowing all the way to finish and providing a nice balance to the silky fruit. Rich and plush but with depth, complexity and ageability. Drink 2022–2035. Christina Pickard