2021 Descendent

The superbly pitched 2021 Descendant has it all. Significantly elegant, it displays a concentrated core of tar, granite and black chocolate lifted by finer, spicy, meaty, dried rosemary nuances. Great upfront power, well composed before opening to a fine and detailed style, punctuated by al-dente tannins. Delicious and will build handsomely in bottle.

- Angus Hughson (07/2024)

A tad of viognier added to shiraz propagated as a massale selection. No new oak, but uses second-fill barrels that still impart subtle oak tannins. A broad style, full-bodied, palate-staining and forceful, yet there is admirable detail and a degree of finesse. Blueberry, camphor, licorice, tapenade and ironstone accents, lurking behind the pithy quince and apricot tones. From a single vineyard in Marananga that delivers the goods in a superlative vintage. Drinkable now, but best from 2028.

- Ned Goodwin MW (02/2022)

Aromatic and intriguing, with lavender, white pepper, rosemary and Earl Grey notes that are plump, juicy and velvety. Details of gingerbread, wintergreen and clove linger, along with a touch of Asian five-spice. Shiraz and Viognier. Drink now through 2037. 750 cases made, 125 cases imported.

- M.A.W. (12/2024)

The 2021 Descendant is often termed as the "Baby Runrig," which, as we all know, is a bit of a myopic way to view things, but it gets the point across. This is Shiraz fermented on Viognier skins (8% by weight, no liquid) and decidedly floral on the nose, with marmalade and orange peel, pink peppercorns and blood plums. The wine is dense and velvety, with loads of tannin; the Viognier, while contributing floral aromatics, textural silk and flow, also contributes tannin, and it is felt here. There is no new oak, which helps with the tannin expression and core of red and purple fruit. The signature Barossan red dirt and ironstone show through the finish. It's really good! Excellent wine. 15% alcohol, sealed under cork and wax.

- Erin Larkin (04/2024)