Torbreck winemaker Ian Hongell says The Laird is the easiest wine to sell. Given one bottle is equivalent to a week's rent in a capital city, some may disagree. But then again, when the demand is high and it always sells out, there is obviously a market that laps it up. And fair enough too, it's a brilliant Shiraz.
A wine that is not produced every year, the fruit comes from the Gnadenfrei vineyard in Marananga. Planted in 1958, it is a four acre site with red and black soils on either side. The black soils hold more moisture I'm reliably informed. Multiple picks take place to ensure the fruit is captured at optimal ripeness.
Fermented separately and spending three years in new French oak, the high char and toast can be seen. But it's early days for this, and like the Runrig, this is a wine that is all about longevity. Put it away and it will live 25,30,40 years.
From a beautiful vintage, Hongell says 2018 was a complete year given the weather and rainfall. "It was a peaceful vintage," he adds saying there was no pressure.
Generous but gracious are the words that come to mind when tasting this. Christmas cake and fruit bun spices cut loose. Dark berries shimmer in the light of blueberries and mulberries. Cedar and sandalwood are prominent - the oak plays a hard game. But given the time it spent in oak, that's not surprising when you consider its youth. Ferrous and earthy things add interest but the sheer pleasure comes from the depth and silky presence. Just brilliant.
Drink to 20 years+
97/100
Source: Sample
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