2023 Torbreck The Steading GSM 750ml

50% Grenache, 31% Shiraz, 19% Mataro  "The Steading is very much the heart and soul of Torbreck, the wine that exemplifies our philosophy and beliefs - protecting and nurturing the old vine resources of the Barossa Valley is paramount to Torbreck and this wine." On a highland farm in Scotland the collection of barns, stables and outbuildings is known as a Steading. Here in the Barossa Valley the varieties Grenache, Mataro and Shiraz all stand in their own right, however in blending, their strengths create a complex wine of solid, earthy structure. It is sourced from Grenache, Mataro and Shiraz vines that survived the worldwide phylloxera outbreak of the 1880s, and a century later, the vine-pull scheme in the Barossa in the 1980s. The protection of this old vine resource of the Barossa Valley is central to the Torbreck story and this wine, more than any other, is an indication of what is possible from these historic cultivars. Vintage The 2023 growing season brought above-average rainfall in winter and spring and a cooler summer. The majority of the harvest took place in the colder months, and most vineyards were not harvested until April, approximately one month later than usual. Cooler seasons can pose several challenges, but through our dedicated commitment to viticulture practices, such as hand pruning and harvesting with careful soil management, the vintage resulted in low-yielding and resilient fruit. The vintage has resulted in very strong wines from the Eden and Barossa Valleys, with bright colours and freshness from higher natural acidities, auguring them towards greater longevity and detail across the palate. Tasting Notes Deep crimson to dark plum core. Intensely lifted red and blue fruits dominate the aromas of mulberry, red plum, redcurrant and red cherry. Spices like sandalwood, cinnamon bark, and star anise also add complexity.   The palate is more robust than past vintages with denser plusher red fruits and a silky mouthfeel and added weight that glides across the tongue. An excellent vintage to enjoy in its youth or cellar confidently for up to 10 years. Enjoy with lamb in any cuisine or an eggplant curry. Serve at 16C