A blend of 98% Shiraz and 2% Viognier made just prior to bottling, the 2016 RunRig is a complete masterpiece. It kicks off with elegant notes of pencil shavings accenting blueberries and blackberries on the nose, then shows incredible, palate-staining intensity of fruit in the mouth. It's full-bodied, plush and velvety without being unstructured and manages to be fruit-forward yet savory on the long-lasting finish, where it picks up hints of mocha and black olives. This should be drinkable with pleasure throughout its entire two-decade life (it may live longer from cold cellars or in larger formats), but if I were lucky enough to have a bottle or two, I'd try the first one about 10 years out.

Restrained and elegant, opening up with ripe black and red fruit flavors. Touches of black licorice and black walnut liqueur plump up the sense of concentration. The tannins are dense but polished, never getting in the way of the harmony

The cool vintage has done great things for Torbreck's most premium Shiraz. While it still sports broad shoulders, this bottling offers dashes of elegance and freshness. Black currant, plum, beet root, cocoa powder and gentle herbs and spices are supported by cola-like oak. The tannins are muscular but fine, tautly woven into the sleek mouthfeel. This should be a stunner with time. Drink 2022-2040.